History, religion and culture
Mosques and temples, languages, local peoples and politics.
Tips for Staying Safe in Indonesia
While travel to Indonesia should not be undertaken lightly, it is possible to travel safely around the area.
The Faces of Yogyakarta: Central Java
Yogyakarta is often referred to as the cultural heart of Indonesia , and its people, the friendliest.
The Fasting Month of Ramadhan
In just under a week’s time the holy fasting month of Ramadhan begins in Indonesia .
Doing the Tourist Thing: Yogyakarta, Central Java
During the time of the Soeharto regime tourism flourished in Indonesia and especially in places like Bali and Yogyakarta.
Election Time is Coming in 2009
My late father, a wise sage in his own right, used to say “ Never comment about politics or religion wherever you travel ”.
Book Review: 'Dark Angel'
Getting to know Aceh is like peeling an onion, an Acehnese once said as a matter of fact.
Handprints Displayed to Support Borobudur Preservation
Youth activists displayed more than 10,000 handprints at Borobudur in Magelang , Central Java , on Sunday, as part of a campaign to help preserve the temple.
Tracing the Spice Trade Sites: Maluku Islands
A nautical journey tracing historical spice trade sites in North Maluku will plow ahead despite increasing tension in the province.
Mentawai Villages to be Relocated: Sumatra
The Mentawai administration will relocate dozens of hamlets in five villages of Mentawai Island regency away from the shore due to the threat of tsunami, a local politician said.
Book Review: Encounters with The Dani
First published in 2003, Encounters With The Dani, a history of contact with the Dani tribe , is a book worth revisiting.
The Legend of Lamafa
Lamafa , a local term for a whaler in Lamalera village, along with its whaling tradition, was already around hundreds of years ago, before Catholic missionaries entered East Nusa Tenggara in 1500s.
Batak Mythology
I am always delighted to see starlit skies. Indonesians are blessed because our country is positioned in such a way we can enjoy a clear night sky.
Conserving Culture: Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara
A picture not only tells a thousand words for the people of Lamalera , a village in Lembata , East Nusa Tenggara .
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
Across Indonesia today it is a public holiday in celebration of Muhammad’s birthday .
Save Bogor Historical Sites: Bogor, West Java
Archaeologists are worried a plan to construct new housing in Pasir Eurih village in the Tamansari district of Bogor will destroy 70 historical sites from an ancient, mysterious Sudanese kingdom .
Merapi and the Demise of the Mataram Kingdom: Central Java, Indonesia
Mount Merapi ’s eruption in 1006 was also regarded as the cause of the demise of the Mataram-Hindu Kingdom and the shift to East Java .
Boedi Oetomo - National Awakening: Indonesia
Sunday, the 20th of May, 1908 : A handful of young Indonesians, led by Wahidin Sudirohusodo , and supported by Soetomo , Gunawan and Suradji -- declared the formation of " Boedi Oetomo ", laying the…
A Future for Merauke's Children: Flores
Dari Sabang sampai Merauke berjajar pulau-pulau/ Sambung-menyambung menjadi satu, itulah Indonesia / (From Sabang to Merauke , the islands are lined up in rows/Connected as one, that's Indonesia).
A Street Named ‘The End of the Asphalt’: Bekasi, West Java
On the map, Ujung Aspal (meaning the "end of the asphalt") looks insignificant -- a short street located at the periphery of Bekasi , West Java .
Three Sites Nominated for World Heritage Status: Bali
A team representing Bali World Heritage will attend a final meeting at UNESCO headquarters in Paris in the next few weeks regarding a proposal to give three sites on the island world heritage status.
Saving Local Languages
The concern over the world's endangered indigenous languages is not a new issue. In 1951, UNESCO held a convention on the language of education on a worldwide basis.
Citizenship Law Needs Further Publication
The revolutionary new citizenship law , passed in 2006, has brought new hope to transnational couples, but the public needs more information to be able to take full advantage of it.
The Magic of the Kraton: Yogyakarta, Central Java
Yogyakarta is well known as a cultural center and plays an important role in both Javanese and Indonesian history and heritage.
Patiayam Fossil Finds: Kudus, Central Java
Rosida Asmi never thought she would find the fossil of a prehistoric animal while doing her laundry in Gandu River , close to her home in Terban village, Jekulo district, in the Central Java town of…
Sundanese Writing System
Many ethnic groups across the country, including the Sundanese , are facing the threat of the declining use of their language or writing system.
Valentine's Day
Today in Indonesia and around the world it is the day for lovers – Valentines Day .
Burial Site of Pamona Ancestors: Latea Cave, Central Sulawesi
Latea Cave is more than 30 million years old. This natural cave is located in the limestone of Parere Hill.
Historical Kingdoms of Bali
While you are in Bali experience non-touristy activities by tracing the island’s richest archaeological zones of Bedulu in Gianyar regency, around 65 kilometers northeast of Nusa Dua.
Kwan Sing Bio: The Crab Shrine: Tuban, East Java
Some two centuries ago, a boat owned by a Chinese explorer became stranded near Tuban on the north coast of Java , which was then a marshy area teeming with crabs.
Pura Langgar - Harmony for Hindu and Islam: Bangli, Bali
On first impressions, it may not seem that there is anything different about Pura Dalem Jawa in Bunutin Village, Bali , but on entering the Hindu temple you may be surprised see in one corner there…
Debating Modern Indonesian Architecture
Indonesia is always at the crossroads between cultures and ideas. On one hand, we have our own diverse cultures.
The Battle of Palembang: Sumatra
I am not one for modern history but much prefer ancient history, but my late father was a history buff and having fought and lived through WW2, it was only natural that a bit of his interest in WW2…
Who are Indonesia's Ethnic Chinese?
The mention of "Indonesia's ethnic Chinese" invites curious reactions. In Australia alone, there are a number of popular images portraying them, the most common being, "rich but corrupt and…
Ashram Gandhi: Karangasem, Bali
Students of Ashram Gandhi Candi Dasa in Karangasem regency, Bali , have to practice their spiritual beliefs amid the constant noise produced by the bars, restaurants and cafes that are located just a…
Customary Law of Banishment: Bali
For the Balinese , the kasepekang (banishment) is the ultimate punishment as Balinese culture is rooted in the community, in which every family is a member of a banjar .
WWII Japanese Soldiers Monument: Rempang Island, North Sumatra
The monument, which lies next to a large house between the beach and the paved road, looks inconspicuous. The message it bears is of forgotten warriors from an obscure past.
Papua Facts
Papua is Indonesia's most eastern territory and has an area of 422,000 square kilometers.
A History of Ambon Island
In 1513, the Portuguese were the first Europeans to land in Ambon , and it became the new centre for Portuguese activities in Maluku following their expulsion from Ternate .
Book Review: History in Uniform
In 1945 when Indonesia proclaimed its independence from the Netherlands it had no army-in-waiting, indeed no police, nothing at all in the way of a formal apparatus of repression or defense.
New Hindu Party for 2009 Elections
A newly-established political party based on the Hindu principle of good deeds expressed its optimism Saturday that it would run in the 2009 general elections as a Jakarta Post article explains.
The Future of Democracy in Indonesia
Unless there are big surprises, the same old faces will very likely dominate the 2009 presidential election, because so far there is not even a little sign that new faces from a younger generation…
Book Review: Mads Lange - The Bali Trader and Peacemaker
A Danish expat living in Lombok and Bali in the 19th century has been almost completely forgotten, yet he was one of the most influential people in Balinese history.
Soeharto’s Life in the Balance
Love him or hate him, Soeharto was a good President for Indonesia irregardless of his faults.
Attractions on Batam Island: North Sumatra
Contrary to some beliefs Batam Island does have some interesting places to see. Batam is quite famous for its nightlife and has great pubs, Karaoke Bars, Theatres, Discos etc with the centre of the…
Are Indonesians Intolerant?
If you had asked me that question back in the era of Soeharto I would have replied “No”.
Medan – A Brief History: Sumatra
After Jakarta and Surabaya , Medan is the third biggest city in Indonesia . Medan is unique in many ways and especially for its multi-cultural society living that lives in harmony.
Palembang – A Brief History: South Sumatra
Palembang was once the capital of the ancient, Buddhist kingdom Srivijaya. It remained the capital from the 7th century to the 14th century A.D.
Fossilized Mammoth Tusk Disappears: Central Java
I can well remember my days at University when, during the holidays, I volunteered on a ‘ dig ’ in Central Australia in search of fossils.
World Human Rights Day
The National Commission on Human Rights is organizing a caricature exhibition and competition as part of events ahead of World Human Rights Day , which falls on Dec. 10 .
East Sulawesi to Become a New Province?
While Central Sulawesi Governor Bandjela Paliudju supports the creation of East Sulawesi -- a new province -- a dispute over where to locate the capital has prevented further progress.
Possible New Temple Found: Bali
Gunung Agung is the highest point on the island of Bali and on its slopes the sacred mother temple for all Balinese – Pura Besakih . The mountain last erupted in 1963-64 and is still active.
Bantik - An Endangered Language: North Sulawesi
According to sources , perhaps the central feature of the Indonesian national culture in the late twentieth century was the Indonesian language .
Balians in Bali
Just about everywhere in Indonesia you will find that Balians, or Dukuns, are sought out to heal illnesses or dispel evil spirits.
Old Town Historical Findings: Jakarta, West Java
While digging in search of an old Dutch streetcar line in Kota , West Jakarta , a team of archaeologists led by Professor Mundarjito discovered a hidden historical treasure.
Paying Homage to the King of Banawa: Sulawesi
Bearing gifts, a group of Tobaku and Sarudu traditional leaders approached the house of Datu Wajar Lamarauna , son and heir of the late king, Adam Ardjad Lamarauna.
Tana Toraja: South Sulawesi
Let's get this out of the way first: Tana Toraja is not a suitable holiday destination for any of the following: committed vegetarians, animal rights activists, or anyone with a pressing sense of…
Indigenous Languages in Danger of Disappearing
Indonesia is known not only for its multi-ethnic richness, but also for its linguistically diversified provinces and regions.
The Badui People: Banten, East Java
The remote Kanekes village in Banten , East Java , is filled with steep hills where sugar palm trees, bamboo and wild grass surround a small mountain trail.
Ampel Mosque: Suarabaya, East Java
Ampel Mosque is believed to be the oldest in the country. Its founder, Sunan Ampel (otherwise known as Raden Ahmad Rachmatulloh ), was one of nine figures who played a leading role in spreading Islam…
Preserving a Hairy Tradition: Maria, West Nusa Tenggara
While fewer Indonesian women are choosing to keep their hair long these days, women in one village in West Nusa Tenggara are hanging on to their long locks to preserve an old tradition.
Arabic Language in Contemporary Indonesian
One of the most often heard cliches is that Bahasa Indonesia is a simple language. I find this cliche is mainly used by those who have never mastered the language.
Metro Jakarta: West Java
The biggest irony about Jakarta is that people see it as a city of a thousand chances, yet chances are actually confined, especially in relation to space.
Wapauwe Mosque: Central Maluku
Wapauwe Mosque , built almost six centuries ago, is evidence of a long history of Islamic civilization in Maluku .
Lautze Mosque a Ramadhan Favorite: Jakarta, West Java
Lao Tze's four-story mosque on Jl. Lao Tze , Pasar Baru , in Central Jakarta , bustles with activity every Sunday during the fasting month of Ramadhan .
Premier Spa Treatment: Bali
Imagine being surrounded by an abundance of tropical flora and fauna as you treat yourself to a day of total pampering.
Dipa Nusantara Aidit
For the past 42 years he has been remembered with feelings of hatred, yet with astonishment. Dipa Nusantara Aidit was only 31 years old when he led the Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).
Love Potions: Madura Island, East Java
The Indonesian island of Madura is famous for two things: bull racing and love potions .The concoctions made and sold on the island off the east coast of Java are touted as a natural way of restoring…
More Batak Heritage Uncovered: North Sumatra
The Medan Archeological Center has discovered an ancient stone plaque inscribed with three characters, believed have been made during the 18th century in Phakpak , North Sumatra .
Ash House of Tjong Wins Cultural building Award
Steeped in 480 years of history, Jakarta has seen its historic buildings struggle to stay standing beside the ever-growing capital.
Pencak Silat
Pencak Silat is a martial art that was first practiced in Sumatra after arriving in Indonesia with Indian and Chinese travelers more than 1000 years ago.
Puhsarang: The Lourdes of East Java
In July, a mob of Muslim radicals reportedly forced the cancellation of an international religious gathering at the Karmel Valley Catholic retreat in West Java .
The Panji Legends
The Mahabharata and Ramayana Indian epics are reasonably familiar to literati in the West where they've been infrequently performed.
Ancient Batak Plaques Unearthed: Medan, Sumatra
The Medan Archeological Center has found two ancient relics in the form of stone plaques believed to be left by former Batak rulers, which archeologists say date back to the 14th century .
Cave Depicts Buddha's Journey: Jireg, East Java
The road running along the hill in Jireg village, Bondowoso , East Java , is deserted. Once in a while, a motorbike breaks the silence.
Madurese Barbers: Semarang, Central Java
Advianto Prasetyabudi was beaming with satisfaction as he rose from the chair after only 10 minutes -- but looking sharper with his neatly trimmed hair.
Golden Mosque: Depok, West Java
In Depok , West Java , lies the golden-domed Dian Al Mahri mosque , where hundreds of people gather to pray daily.
Mataram Kingdom Excavation: Bantul, Central Java
The 17th century Islamic kingdom of Mataram , under the leadership of Sultan Agung , used to be a major state known throughout the world.
When it Goes Too Far: Pura Besakih, Bali
I was astounded…no…outraged and disgusted when I read an article in the Jakarta Post today about a proposed golf course to be built near the sacred and holy Hindu site of Pura Besakih – the mother…
Indonesian Waters Threatened with Annexation
Over the centuries lands in Indonesia have been invaded, first by the many Hindu , Bhuddist and Islamic kingdoms and in the one century Indonesia was invaded by the Dutch, then the Japanese, ruled…
The Forgotten Village: Aboru, Central Maluku
Stories about the Aboru people abound and they're also pretty frightening. But while some listeners might get scared away, others might find the tales a magnet that is hard to resist.
'Pink Indonesia'
Very few people talk about them. To most, it's a subject best left alone. To some they are an embarrassment, to others an oddity and to many of the faithful, they are there to be condemned.
Tourism Potential in Japanese Buildings: Sumatra
Although Japan occupied Indonesia for only three years during World War II, they left many historical buildings that are now part of Indonesia's heritage and could become assets for the tourist…
Keeping the Spirit Alive: Central Kalimantan
The Hornbill ( Bucerotidae sp ), known locally as Burung Tingang , has an important position within the culture of the Dayak tribe in Central Kalimantan . They call it the "bird of spirit".
The Legend of 'Lamafa': East Nusa Tenggara
Lamafa , a local term for a whaler in Lamalera village , along with its whaling tradition, was already around hundreds of years ago, before Catholic missionaries entered East Nusa Tenggara in 1500s.
Japanese Fort Found: Banggai, Central Sulawesi
Residents in Kampangar village , Balantak district in Banggai regency have found a fort and ammunition believed to be remnants from the Japanese occupation period .
Sea Tribe Suffering: Riau, Sumatra
Even after moving to land, the Suku Laut sea tribe of Air Mas Island in Batam , Riau Island province, has not escaped a life of poverty.
Catholic Churches: Jakarta, West Java
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese has added color to the capital's melting pot of multiculturalism since it was established in the city two centuries ago.
Borobudur Fun Heritage Trail: Yogyakarta, Central Java
There is no doubt that the beauty, glory, and magnificence of the world heritage site, Borobudur temple , is well known not just across Indonesia but also around the globe.
Quake hits Indonesian Temples: Yogyakarta, Central Java
Damage to one of Indonesia's most spectacular temple complexes caused by last year's devastating Java earthquake was so extensive that repairs will take at least five years, UNESCO says.
Three New Regencies Inaugurated: East Nusa Tenggara
Acting Home Affairs Minister Widodo AS on Tuesday inaugurated the establishment of three new regencies -- Nagekeo , Central Sumba and Southwest Sumba -- bringing the total number of regencies in East…
Tours of Forgotten Heritage: Jakarta, West Java
The peeling cream exterior of state junior high school SMP Negeri 14 is the last remaining example of early 20th century art deco architecture in the Jatinegara area.
Rice Farmers: Indonesia
Rice farmers often have to live through gloomy times. At least that is the situation in Indonesia , the majority of whose population eats rice as a staple.
Munir Receives Award Posthumously
Long time coming and far too late . That’s how I would describe the bestowment of a Human Rights Award to a champion of human rights in Indonesia .
Ancient Statues: Kediri, East Java
A sugar cane farm at Gayam village, Kediri , East Java , was a tranquil place until villager Maksum discovered six statues there, believed to be a legacy of the 12th-Century Kediri kingdom .
West Irian Jaya Renamed as West Papua
Indonesians are renowned for taking their time in doing things, but, at last the government has issued a regulation officially renaming West Irian Jaya province to West Papua province, a political…
Cirebon's History Disappearing: Cirebon, West Java
A number of deteriorating historical and traditional buildings in Cirebon , West Java , are on the brink of destruction due to poor maintenance and old age.
National Kartini Day: Indonesia
As is customary on April 21 the nation will celebrate the birthday of Raden Ayu Kartini (1879-1904), who despite her short life became a symbol for women's rights, literacy and social aspirations.
Cikini – An Historical Area: Jakarta, West Java
Two centuries ago, Cikini stood on the sidelines while neighbouring areas were developed into new settlements for the wealthy.
Model Islamic Village: Pamekasan, Eat Java
The East Java branch of the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI), Indonesia's top Muslim clerical body, is planning to develop a "model Islamic village" in the district of Pamekasan in East Java and has…
The Java Spirit and the Handicapped
Indonesia possesses no social security system for its people and thus they must survive as best they can. Can you imagine being disabled?.