Points to Keep in Mind When Working with Indonesian Based on 10 Years of Experience: Differences in Personality and Mindset

Indonesian and Japanese people having significant differences due to differences in religion and the environment in which they were raised. Many people experience stress and struggle with the gap when they start working without understanding these differences.

Working in Indonesia requires an understanding of the culture and values that differ from those in Japan, which is the key to success. In this article, we will explain in detail the points to be careful of and the characteristics of Indonesians when working with them. Please use this as a reference when working with Indonesians.

Characteristics and Personality of Indonesians

 

Kind-hearted and Innocent Indonesian People

Indonesian people have a pure and innocent personality, and many of them are kind. They often laugh, talk a lot, and value enjoying daily life with family and friends. Many are friendly and easygoing, so even when meeting someone for the first time, they can quickly become friends. They are also very kind and gentle, and even strangers will help you as if you were family—for example, if you get lost in the city or your motorcycle breaks down.

Fond of Talking

Indonesians place great importance on communication, and chatting never stops even during work. They enjoy talking with others, and at coffee shops, you can often see them chatting for hours. This talkative nature is found in both women and men. In offices too, it’s common to see people enjoying small talk during breaks. Smooth communication contributes to better teamwork and building good relationships, so compared to Japan, friendly relationships with neighbors and coworkers are more commonly seen.

The “Tidak Apa-Apa / It’s Okay” Mentality of Indonesian People

Indonesians are very tolerant and have a personality that doesn’t fuss over small details. This tolerance can be seen even when receiving change during purchases, and it is a common trait in daily life. They frequently use the phrase “Tidak Apa-Apa” (It’s okay), and they handle minor inconveniences or troubles with flexibility. This forgiving attitude also extends to others’ mistakes or lateness, helping them go through daily life without accumulating stress. However, what may be considered a serious issue to Japanese people may be viewed as a small problem by Indonesians, so caution is needed. To get along well with Indonesians, it’s important to understand this “it’s okay, no problem” mindset and not get irritated over small things.

Indonesian are Not Good at Refusing and Telling Small Lies

Indonesians are kind-hearted and tend to find it difficult to refuse when asked for help. That’s why it’s important to double-check whether they can actually do something or not. They often say “I can do it” without bad intentions, even if they actually can’t. Sometimes they may say “yes” to something they can’t do, just to be nice. For example, when asked for directions, they may give random answers out of kindness, even if they don’t know the way. While these small lies may be frustrating for Japanese people, for Indonesians, they stem from good intentions. It’s important not to get irritated or rely too heavily on them. In the workplace, these small lies can become big issues, so clear and repeated communication is essential.

“Tidak Enak” – Discomfort with Giving Warnings or Showing Anger

Indonesians have a cultural mindset known as “Tidak Enak,” which reflects a reluctance to correct or get angry with others. To avoid making others feel uncomfortable, they often avoid directly pointing out problems, opting instead for indirect expressions or silence. As a result, instructions or feedback may become vague, leading to communication issues.

Indonesian’s Highly Respect for Religion

Indonesia is home to the world’s largest Muslim population, and people take religious teachings very seriously. Unlike Japan, where religion doesn’t play a significant role in daily life, in Indonesia many people see religion as the most important aspect of life. People may pray during work, women may wear hijabs, and many strictly follow religious rules such as avoiding pork. When employing Indonesians, it’s important to understand and respect their religion. For example, adjusting schedules to accommodate prayer times or providing halal food options can be necessary. Being considerate of religious needs can help improve employee satisfaction and productivity.

By the way, while most Indonesians are Muslim, the country respects freedom of religion. According to government statistics, 87.2% are Muslim, 7% Protestant, 2.9% Catholic, 1.6% Hindu, 0.72% Buddhist, 0.05% Confucian, and 0.5% belong to other religions.

Strong Sense of Obligation and Emotion (Giri and Jō)

Indonesians place great importance on human relationships. While they may sometimes put off work in favor of personal matters, showing understanding can help foster strong bonds. They highly value friendships and family ties and will not abandon those in need. This deep sense of obligation and emotional connection is also crucial in business. Building trust can lead to long-term partnerships. However, since family-related issues are common, lending money or possessions should be done cautiously, with the understanding that repayment may not always occur.

Gotong Royong – The Spirit of Mutual Assistance of Indonesian

Indonesian people has a deeply rooted cultural concept called Gotong Royong, which emphasizes mutual assistance and cooperation. Despite being a multi-ethnic country, Indonesians respect each other’s values and maintain a strong helping culture. This spirit is something Japanese people can also learn from. In addition, Islamic teachings promote the concept of Zakat, a form of compulsory almsgiving to help those in need. The idea is that those who have more should help those with less. This cooperative mindset plays an essential role not only in families and friendships but also in business environments.

Low Assertiveness and Obedient Personality of Indonesian People

While individual personalities differ, many Indonesians tend to be less assertive and more obedient, especially toward superiors or elders. Similar to Japanese culture, they often prioritize harmony and avoid conflict rather than expressing their opinions. Even if they are dissatisfied internally, they may not voice their concerns, especially to those in authority. This trait, though sounding polite or respectful, can sometimes result in a lack of initiative or proactiveness in the workplace. It’s important to give them appropriate encouragement and guidance to help them grow into more active contributors.

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Common Personality Traits of Indonesian Men

• Sociable and Strong in Leadership

  Indonesian men are generally sociable and skilled communicators. They enjoy group activities and often display leadership qualities. In the workplace, they value teamwork and place great importance on collaboration with their peers.

• Approachable and Friendly

  Indonesian men tend to be approachable and easily connect with new people. They enjoy meeting others and are adept at building relationships. This friendly nature helps foster positive connections in both business and daily life.

• Relaxed and Sometimes Perceived as Lazy

  On the flip side, many Indonesian men have a laid-back attitude, which may sometimes be interpreted as laziness. Compared to Japanese work culture, their approach to tasks can be more relaxed, potentially leading to differences in expectations around efficiency and speed.

• Traditional Views in Rural Areas

  In rural regions, traditional values such as male dominance and polygamy still persist. These cultural norms can influence interpersonal and business dynamics, so understanding the local context is important when interacting in such areas.

 

Common Personality Traits of Indonesian Women

• Family-Oriented and Caring

  Indonesian women are deeply family-oriented and show strong compassion toward their loved ones. They prioritize the well-being and happiness of their families, dedicating significant time and effort to their care. Their kindness extends beyond family, often demonstrating a strong spirit of mutual support.

• Adaptable and Flexible

Indonesian women are known for their adaptability and ability to adjust to new circumstances. They face change positively and are willing to work hard to resolve problems. This flexibility is a valuable asset in both professional and domestic environments.

• Cooperative Team Players

  Many Indonesian women prefer working collaboratively and value teamwork. They are dependable members of any group and contribute meaningfully to achieving shared goals. In community life, especially among mothers, strong peer networks are commonly seen.

• Hardworking in Religious and Community Events

  Indonesian women actively participate in religious and local community events and are known for their diligence in fulfilling their roles. Their involvement helps strengthen ties within the community and builds mutual trust and respect.

 

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Points to Note When Working with Indonesian

Indonesian Work Attitudes

In Indonesia, many people work to support their families, and their perspectives on employment vary depending on socioeconomic background. When asked about future career aspirations, students often cite roles such as civil servants, bank employees, or teachers—jobs that are considered stable and respectable. This reflects a cultural emphasis on job security and social status.

However, only a limited number of people can attain such positions. The majority of Indonesians are engaged in day labor, farming, or small-scale entrepreneurship. Educational background and occupation are still often used as indicators of a person’s worth, and many aspire to attain socially prestigious positions or pursue income-generating jobs with minimal hardship.

In recent years, with the rise of internet access, more Indonesians—especially housewives and students—are turning to side hustles, freelancing, and gig work to earn income independently. This shift has broadened the landscape of work in Indonesia, especially among younger generations.

Balancing Work and Personal Life

In Indonesian culture, family, religious obligations, and community activities often take precedence over work. Unlike cultures where career is central to one’s life, Indonesians typically prioritize time with family and participation in religious or social events.

For example, when a death occurs in the community, it is considered a moral duty to attend the funeral or assist with burial arrangements—even if it means leaving work. Similarly, during daily prayer times, work may be paused to allow for religious observance.

It is also common for individuals to check their phones during work hours for personal matters, which may seem unprofessional by some standards. Companies working with Indonesians should recognize this cultural norm and establish reasonable workplace policies that balance flexibility with productivity.

Japanese work culture, for instance, often emphasizes work above all else. In contrast, many Indonesians value relationships, religion, and enjoying life, and it is essential to respect and understand these values when collaborating with them.

Different Sense of Time

In Japan, the concept of “time is money” is deeply ingrained, and punctuality is a standard in the workplace. However, in Indonesia, the awareness of time differs, and there is a concept known as “jam karet” (rubber time). This term suggests that time can stretch and contract, meaning that delays and schedule changes are common. In Indonesia’s business environment, a flexible attitude toward time is often necessary. For instance, meetings may start later than planned, or deadlines may be postponed. When managing projects, it is crucial to regularly check progress and be mindful of any delays. In our company, which conducts offshore development for Japanese clients in Indonesia, we are working diligently to communicate and help our Indonesian team understand the Japanese sense of time, addressing these differences daily.

Accounting for Tardiness

Tardiness is a common occurrence in Indonesia, and it is essential to organize work processes with this in mind. Proper staff allocation and prioritization are key. In urban areas, severe traffic jams and unreliable public transportation schedules further contribute to delays. As such, in Indonesia, the idea that “being late = bad” is less emphasized, and many people may arrive late without concern. Therefore, scheduling meetings or project start times with extra buffer time can help minimize the impact of delays. If you live in Indonesia while maintaining a strict Japanese sense of time, it might lead to frustration. Additionally, be cautious of promises such as “Besok Saja” (Tomorrow, maybe). This often leads to perpetual delays as people repeatedly promise “tomorrow,” with no concrete follow-through.

Don’t Take “I Can Do It” at Face Value

In Indonesia’s business culture, it is often difficult for individuals to say “no,” so people may say they can do something even when they are uncertain. However, there is no guarantee that the promise will be fulfilled. To ensure reliability, it’s important to confirm not only verbally but also track progress and, when necessary, request written confirmations.

Don’t Expect Unpaid Overtime

In Indonesia, there is a strong sense of responsibility to work within the boundaries set by employment contracts, and unpaid overtime is uncommon. It is typical for employees to leave work promptly at the end of their shifts. This contrasts with Japan, where working overtime is often expected, and leaving before the boss can be uncomfortable. Even in startup companies, many employees maintain a clear separation between work and personal life and leave on time. In Indonesia’s work culture, it is rare for employees to work beyond regular hours, and expecting late-night email replies or emergency responses after hours is unrealistic unless explicitly explained and compensated. In our company, where we develop and maintain systems for our clients, we sometimes don’t handle issues during late-night or holidays. However, by clearly explaining the reasons and offering compensation, we have managed to gain understanding and cooperation from our Indonesian colleagues.

Indonesian Avoid Public Confrontation

In Indonesia, it is highly dishonorable to scold someone in front of others. Even when parents reprimand their children, it is generally done one-on-one, not in front of others. Similarly, in the workplace, people expect that any corrective feedback should be private. Publicly scolding someone is believed to hurt their pride and may cause the staff to become intimidated, which could negatively impact the entire company.

Even if there is an employee with issues during a meeting, it is better to avoid reprimanding them on the spot and instead have a private, respectful conversation. This way, you can provide constructive feedback while maintaining the person’s dignity. Unlike in Japan, where being scolded can drive a person to perform better, in Indonesia, being scolded may cause individuals to shrink in fear, lose motivation, or even quit. It is better to approach them with a mindset of teaching or advising. Furthermore, after scolding, it is important to praise and encourage them with humor to uplift their spirits.

Avoid Advance Payments or Loans for Indonesian

For Indonesians, work is a means to earn money. Offering an advance payment may reduce their motivation to work. Therefore, it is preferable to opt for post-payment to keep their drive intact. Many people in rural areas do not have bank accounts and lack a savings culture, living from paycheck to paycheck. In urban areas, despite Indonesia’s rapid growth, the tendency to spend money immediately after receiving it is common, as there is a mindset that wages will increase over time. Moreover, once someone borrows money, they may come to expect that it will be easy to borrow again, so caution is needed. Unless there is a special reason, it is best to avoid paying wages in advance.

Personally, I assist in exceptional cases where health issues, accidents, or circumstances that prevent someone from continuing their work can be resolved through financial support. However, handling such issues is difficult when managing a business in Indonesia, and finding solutions to this problem is challenging.

Frequent Job-Hopping?

In Indonesia, there is a term “Kutu Loncat“, meaning “jumping flea,” which refers to people who frequently change jobs. Job-hopping is more common in Indonesia than in Japan, as many people seek new challenges or higher salaries. This tendency is related to the fact that Indonesian companies often hire employees on fixed-term contracts rather than offering lifetime employment, which contrasts with Japan’s lifelong employment culture.

However, many employees remain in a company for a long time when they enjoy a comfortable work environment, company culture, and their colleagues. After speaking with employees, I’ve found that many do wish to stay with one company long-term. Therefore, it is important to provide a positive work environment and opportunities for growth to retain such employees.

Advantages of IT Outsourcing to Indonesia

1. Cost Efficiency
   Indonesia offers competitive labor costs compared to other Asian countries, making it an attractive destination for outsourcing. This affordability allows companies to optimize budgets without compromising on quality.
2. Expanding Skilled Workforce
   The country boasts a young, tech-savvy population, with a growing number of professionals skilled in software development, DevOps, and data analytics. This talent pool is increasingly being tapped by global companies seeking quality IT services.
3. Government Support for Digital Transformation
   Indonesia’s government actively promotes digital initiatives, creating a conducive environment for IT outsourcing. Policies encouraging foreign investment and digital infrastructure development further enhance its appeal.
4. Cultural Compatibility
   Indonesians are known for their friendly and cooperative nature, which aligns well with collaborative work environments. Their emphasis on harmony and respect can facilitate smooth working relationships with international partners.

 

Challenges to Consider

1. Variations in Time Perception
   The concept of “jam karet” or “rubber time” reflects a more flexible approach to punctuality in Indonesia. This cultural nuance can impact project timelines if not managed proactively.
2. Indirect Communication Styles
   Indonesians often avoid direct confrontation, which can lead to misunderstandings if feedback or issues aren’t explicitly addressed. Establishing clear communication protocols is essential.
3. Data Security Concerns
   Indonesia’s data protection regulations are still evolving. Companies must implement robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive information when outsourcing IT functions.
4. Talent Retention Issues
   The phenomenon of “kutu loncat,” or frequent job-hopping, is prevalent in Indonesia. To retain skilled professionals, companies should focus on creating positive work environments and offering growth opportunities.

 

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Summary

In doing business in Indonesia, it is essential to understand and respect their culture, religion, and values. By appreciating their flexible approach to time and the importance of personal life, and fostering effective communication, you can build strong business relationships. Rather than imposing Japanese ways of thinking, it is important to learn from the Indonesian spirit of tolerance and cooperation while also sharing and understanding Japanese perspectives. This mutual understanding is key to success.

At first, there may be challenges in adjusting to different ways of thinking, but as you get used to the mindset of the Indonesian people, you will likely come to appreciate their kindness and friendliness.

At our company, Timedoor, we work with over 150 Indonesians, advising and supporting them in areas where they may be weaker, while building a unique company culture that blends the best of both Japanese and Indonesian cultures. Through this collaboration, we are able to work together on IT and education projects. Conversely, as a Japanese, I continue to learn from them and gain insights, even after running the company for 10 years. There is still much to learn from them every day.

Please refer to this article to build wonderful relationships with people from Indonesia.

For business in Indonesia, choose Timedoor, celebrating its 10th anniversary.

We offer system development, IT education services, Japanese language education and human resource dispatch services, and market entry support services.

For inquiries to our company, please contact us here.

 

 

FAQ

Q: What are the characteristics and traits of Indonesians?

A: Indonesians are often pure-hearted and innocent, and many are kind-hearted. They love to chat and value communication. Having a “tidak apa-apa” (it’s okay) mentality and are tolerant about small details. Indonesian people tend to avoid direct refusal and may tell small lies, but these are without malice and come from a kind-hearted place.

Q: What is the religious outlook of Indonesians?

A: Indonesia is the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, and religious teachings are highly valued. Even at work, Indonesians pray, women wear hijabs, and they avoid eating pork, adhering to religious rules. It is important to respect these religious practices.

Q: What should I be cautious of when working with Indonesians?

A: When working with Indonesians, it’s essential to understand their flexible sense of time and that tardiness is common. It’s important to manage schedules with extra flexibility. Also, it’s best to avoid expecting overtime and avoid scolding people in front of others, opting instead for private and considerate feedback.

Q: What is the work ethic of Indonesians like?

A: In Indonesia, family, religious events, and community activities often take precedence. People value the balance between work and private life, focusing more on spending time with family and participating in religious activities than making work the center of their lives.

Q: Do Indonesians frequently change jobs?

A: In Indonesia, there is a term “Kutu Loncat,” which refers to people who frequently change jobs. It is common to switch jobs in search of new challenges or higher pay. However, by offering a good workplace environment and growth opportunities, you can encourage employees to stay with your company for the long term.

Q: What should I be careful about in communication with Indonesians?

A: Indonesians tend to be less assertive and more obedient, so they may not always express problems directly. It’s important to provide proper advice and confirm details repeatedly to ensure smooth communication.

Q: Can you explain the spirit of mutual help among Indonesians?

A: Indonesians have a deeply ingrained spirit of mutual help known as “Gotong Royong.” Despite being a multi-ethnic country, this culture of helping each other is strong, and it is fundamental in business, family, and friendships. Respecting each other’s values and assisting one another is central to Indonesian society.

Q: Is it advisable to make advance payments or lend money to Indonesians?

A: Making advance payments can reduce an employee’s motivation to work. Lending money can also lead to the expectation of easy loans in the future. Unless there is a special reason, it is best to avoid advance payments.

Q: How should I deal with the difference in time perception among Indonesians?

A: In Indonesia, the concept of “Jam Karet” (rubber time) exists, meaning people tend to be flexible with time. It’s crucial to plan with ample time and calculate schedules assuming delays.

Q: What is important when building business relationships with Indonesians?

A: Understanding and respecting Indonesians’ culture, religion, and values is essential. Practicing appropriate communication and learning from their tolerance and spirit of mutual assistance while sharing and understanding each other’s perspectives is key to success.

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Explanation of Terms Used in This Article

Tidak Enak

This Indonesian phrase means “uncomfortable” or “not good.” It represents a cultural attitude of avoiding causing discomfort or confrontation by refraining from criticism or direct confrontation. In work or communication, this often leads to indirect expressions or the avoidance of addressing problems directly.

Jam Karet

“Jam Karet” translates to “rubber time” in Indonesian, symbolizing flexibility with time. It refers to a culture where being late to appointments or meetings is tolerated, and time is seen as adjustable.

Ramadan

Ramadan is the Islamic fasting month. For about a month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. This period often affects business operations, leading to shorter working hours and increased holidays.

Halal

In Islamic law, “halal” refers to permissible actions or food. Many people in Indonesia follow halal practices, so people must pay attention for food and workplace environments to ensure compliance with these dietary and ethical standards.

Gotong Royong

This term refers to the deeply ingrained “spirit of mutual help” in Indonesian culture. It signifies the practice of helping each other within society or a community, emphasizing collaboration and assistance.

Basic Knowledge of Indonesia

Indonesia’s Population

Indonesia has a total population of about 270 million, making it the 4th most populous country in the world. The country is home to many different ethnic groups, including Javanese, Sundanese, Batak, Balinese, and others. Particularly, about 60% of the population lives on Java Island.

The population structure in Indonesia is relatively young, with an average age of about 30 years. In contrast, Japan’s average age is around 48, making Indonesia a very youthful country. The large young population is a strength for Indonesia, providing a rich labor force that plays a vital role in economic growth. However, this also leads to an increasing demand for social services such as education and healthcare. Indonesia is in a “demographic dividend” period, aiming for sustainable economic development while utilizing this young workforce.

Religion in Indonesia

Islam is the dominant religion in Indonesia, with about 87% of the population being Muslim. Other religions, such as Christianity (Protestant and Catholic), Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, are also in practice. Religion is deeply ingrained in daily life, and in business settings, it is important to respect religious customs and events. For example, during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, and business hours are often shorten. Employees may also take time off to participate in religious events. There is also a need to provide halal food in various contexts.

Indonesia’s GDP

As of 2023, Indonesia’s GDP stands at about $1.37 trillion, ranking 16th in the world. The economy is diversified, with agriculture, manufacturing, and services being major sectors. Key growth industries in manufacturing include electronics, automobiles, and textiles, which support both domestic and international demand. Indonesia’s abundant natural resources, such as coal, natural gas, and palm oil, are also major contributors to the economy. The government is promoting infrastructure development and regulatory reforms to support economic growth and attract foreign investment.

Indonesia’s GDP Per Capita

Indonesia’s GDP per capita is about $5,000, positioning it as a middle-income country. However, there are disparities in economic development across regions. Urban areas like Jakarta and Surabaya have higher income levels, while rural areas face significant poverty issues. The government is working to reduce these regional disparities by promoting local economic development and improving infrastructure and education systems. As incomes rise, consumer activity is expected to increase.

Retirement Age and Life Expectancy in Indonesia

The retirement age in Indonesia varies depending on the company and occupation but is generally between 55 and 60 years. In some workplaces, employees may work until the age of 65. The average life expectancy in Indonesia is about 72 years and has been increasing due to improvements in healthcare and sanitation. The rise in life expectancy is contributing to the growing demand for healthcare and elderly care services, making these areas important future challenges.

Currency in Indonesia

The currency of Indonesia is the Rupiah (IDR). As of 2024, the exchange rate is approximately 1 Japanese Yen to 105 Rupiah. The exchange rate fluctuates due to economic and international factors, and companies involved in import-export operations need to manage this risk. The Central Bank of Indonesia implements policies to stabilize the Rupiah, which may include interest rate adjustments and foreign exchange interventions. Rupiah banknotes ranging from 1,000 to 100,000 Rupiah, and electronic payments, such as mobile payments and QR code transactions, are in use widely in urban areas.

Languages in Indonesia

The official language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesia, which in use nationwide in education, administration, and business. In addition to the official language, there are approximately 700 regional languages across the country. These languages reflect the cultural diversity of Indonesia and play an essential role in the identity of local communities. English is use widely in business and tourism, particularly in urban areas. Understanding the local language and having communication skills are essential for conducting business in Indonesia.

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