How to Study Abroad in Indonesia

Study In Indonesia: A Classroom In Paradise

Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world, encompassing an area of over 3,350 miles. That is roughly the distance from California to Bermuda and it is filled with green lagoons, ancient ruins, bustling cities, intricate temples, and bright blue waters.The country is probably best known for one of its provinces, Bali, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Bali has won many awards such as Best Island from Travel and Leisure and its beaches were featured in the hit film Eat, Pray, Love. But, the nation made up of a series of islands has much more to offer.

Ulun Danu Temple, Bali, Indonesia. Photo courtesy of Robert Montgomery on Flickr

Location and Demographics

This Southeast Asian country of around 240 million people is nestled between Malaysia to the east and Papua New Guinea to the west, the Philippines to the north and Australia to the south. It is divided into seven island groupings: Sumatra, Java, Lesser Sunda Islands, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku Islands, and Western New Guinea. Each consists of their own unique population and traits. Cultures span Asian, Pacific, and Papuan.

The Language and Currency

Selamat datang is what you’ll hear as you set foot in Indonesia. It means welcome in Indonesian. It is the official language and a form of Malay, but there are over 350 native language still used throughout the islands. English has spreading through the country at a rapid pace the last several years. There is much stress placed on learning it. Knowing the language is considered prestigious and some private schools actually teach primarily in English rather than Indonesian.

The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah, or IDR. Although Indonesia’s economy is considered the largest of southeast Asia, the currency is said to be undervalued and conversion rates strongly favor the United States Dollar.

Culture

Indonesia, meaning Indian Islands, is a land full of contrast and diversity. The string of islands comes with strings of different languages, customs, and traits. The nations motto is actually Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, meaning unity in diversity. Expect to find something different every place you visit.

Theater and storytelling is a large part of Indonesian culture. Don't expect to play a part in a classic Shakespearean piece classic though. The islands are much more about local stories, particularly those you can play out using wayang kulit or shadow puppets. The same goes for music and dance, which makes heavy use of masks in performances. Making and wearing masks for traditional dances is very popular especially in Bali.

Studying In Indonesia

A wide range of study abroad programs is available in Indonesia, many feature the popular Bali and the capital Jakarta. The capital is home to over 10 million people and is known for its chaotic, lively, and fun atmosphere. While the city offers many theater and more urban opportunities the biodiversity of the the country make it a haven for biology and environmental studies of all kinds. It is also a great location to study tourism and development. Although, the economy is considered strong and growing the country’s infrastructure is very weak. This leaves the country with problems to face in terms of supporting itself and maintaining its growth. Some programs allow students to study and even help solve these issues.

About the Author

Joel Tan Joel Tan began his professional life as a reporter for a major Asian newspaper. It was during his stint as the paper's technology editor that he won an award for best science and technology reporting for his series on biotechnology and its effects on human health and development. Joel has traveled throughout Asia. When he isn't busy with technology projects, Joel dabbles in blogging about travel and technology, and tweaking Wordpress themes.