What is considered rude in Indonesia?

What is considered rude in Indonesia?

Pointing toward someone with forefinger is considered rude. While pointing with the whole open palm or just a thumb (with other fingers folded) are considered most polite.

Why is green forbidden in Indonesia?

That's because in Indonesia, green is a forbidden color. In countries with dense jungles like those in South America, green represents death. But in the Middle East, green is the color of luck.

How can I be polite in Indonesia?

Namaste is not commonly used in Bali. The phrase used is "Om Swastiastu" (Balinese greeting). Better you greet with Balinese than Bahasa Indonesia since 85% of the population in Bali is a Balinese.

How do you show respect in Indonesia?

Indonesians never show the soles of their feet, or allow their feet to point towards another person. It is also a sign of respect when sitting to keep both your feet on the floor and adopt a straight posture. As with many Asian cultures, the left hand is considered unclean.

What does the middle finger mean in Indonesia?

A hand gesture in which forefinger and middle finger are raised and parted while the rest are folded. Generally considered a “Victory” sign, it can also mean the same as “peace".

How do you say yes in Balinese?

The 'yes' in Balinese can be spoken as Inggih, Patut, and Beneh.

What does Om Swastiastu mean?

The traditional Balinese greeting is, naturally, a Hindu one – the hands are clasped in front the chest in a relaxed prayer position and the person says, “Om Swasti Astu”, meaning 'peace and greetings from God'. Or Swasti means health, health may be upon you. Om Swastiastu also often interpreted as: May God Bless You.

How do you say good morning in Bali?

Good morning translates as "Selamat pagi." Good afternoon is "Selamat siang." To say good evening, say "Selamat sore." For goodnight, say "Selamat malam."

How do you address a woman in Indonesia?

Indonesians normally address a lady as Ibu and a man as Pak or Bapak. It doesn't mean you look old. It is not uncommon for a lady in her 20s to be called Ibu especially if she has some social standing.

Is shaking hands with a woman in Indonesia acceptable?

Women should cover up as well, and should invest in a kerchief, or shawl, to cover their hair. A man should also never shake hands with a Muslim woman, unless she extends her hand first.

How do you address a man in Indonesia?

Honorifics. In Indonesia, ranks and professional titles are used. It is also customary to use Pak, Bapak or Saudara to address men and Bu, Saudari or Ibu to address women. Pak and Bapak are literally translated as "father".

What is MBAK?

'Mbak' (literally "older sister" in Javanese) is the equivalent of 'mas' for females. Like 'mas,' it is used by the Javanese as a term of respect . . . sometimes applied to one's actual older sister, and sometimes applied to a female friend or colleague of a similar or older age.

What is the language of Bali Indonesia?

Balinese or simply Bali, is a Malayo-Polynesian language spoken by 3.3 million people (as of 2000) on the Indonesian island of Bali as well as Northern Nusa Penida, Western Lombok, Eastern Java, Southern Sumatra, and Sulawesi. Most Balinese speakers also know Indonesian.