Country guide

Indonesia Business etiquette and meeting customs

Asia/Jakarta

What kind of meeting?

Moderate punctuality

A few minutes late is tolerated, but let people know if you'll be later.

Meeting Culture

Recommended duration60+ min
Communication StyleIndirect, polite
Greeting StyleHandshake (light grip) with slight bow

Daily Schedule

Work Hours08:0017:00
Breakfast07:0008:00
Lunch12:0013:00
Dinner19:0020:30
Sleep23:0006:00

Tips for Meetings

For the kind of meeting you chose above.

Dress Code

Business formal, batik shirts accepted

Tone

Polite, hierarchical, indirect

  • ·Respect for elders and seniority guides all interactions
  • ·Use the right hand for greetings and passing objects
  • ·Batik shirts are acceptable formal business attire

General Tips

  • ·Jam karet (rubber time) — the meeting may start late, but arrive on time yourself
  • ·Hierarchy and respect for elders are paramount
  • ·Right hand for greetings and eating
  • ·Build trust through socializing before business

Cultural Notes

  • ·Multiple time zones in country

Meeting someone from Indonesia?

Find the best time

Cultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.

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