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IndonesiaRAA_CAOFEB24.pptxReligious Area Analysis Indonesia
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LAST UPDATED: 20FEB2024
OVERALL CLASSIFICATION: CUI
DERIVED FROM: OPEN SOURCE
Religious Support Team
Headquarters Support Company
1st Battalion 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne)
Indonesia Religion Overview
Religious Factors in P(M)ESII-(P)T
Islam and Ramadan in Indonesia
Religious Impact Assessment
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Overview
Indonesia, located in Southeast Asia, comprises over 17,000 islands with diverse geography.
With a population exceeding 270 million, it ranks as the fourth most populous nation globally.
Indonesia boasts a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, embracing hundreds of ethnic groups and languages.
As a multi-religious country, Indonesia recognizes Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other faiths.
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Introduction1, 2
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Indonesia Religious Beliefs3
population
Islam Christianity Hinduism Buddhism 87 10 1.7 0.7
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Java Religious Beliefs5
population
Islam Christianity Hinduism Buddhism 96.04 3.35 0.11 0.49
Political6
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Prabowo Subianto (ao. 15 FEB) looks to be the newly elected President (secular nationalist). Some speculate
Anies Baswedan (runner-up) is most strongly supported by conservative Islamic groups (and by Aceh in 2024)
Point of Interest: Subianto is a former Commander of Indonesian Army Special Forces Command (1995-1998)…was dismissed in 1998 after being accused of human rights abuses under President Suharto.
Potential Impact: Some speculate that his Presidency will deteriorate the Humanitarian Crisis in Papua. Pay attention to what your partner force says, if anything, about the crisis.
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Economy7,8
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Sharia Compliant Banking has continued to rise since 2003
In 2021, 3 institutions merged to become PT Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BSI) for Islamic Banking products.
Point of Interest: As of 2021, Islamic banking in Indonesia (highest Muslim population in the world) was at 7% (compare to Malaysia (30%) or Brunei (>50%)). The modernization efforts of Islamic banking in Indonesia could indicate a move toward rising conservative Islamic sentiment.
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Social8
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National Motto: “Unity in Diversity”
Local communities each have a distinctive “adat” – unwritten rules to govern social, political, ritual, and religious behavior.
Beyond the Pancasila (c.f. “Information”) there are a few common principles that guide social interactions:
“gotong royong” (mutual assistance) – eg. Neighborhood cleanup (city), house construction (village)
“mufakat” (consensus)
“musyawarah” (consultations) – e.g. musyawarah mufkat is a meeting that can go on for days to settle a dispute
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Social8
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Politeness is valued and expected: avoid direct and open disagreements
Pay attention to their sense of hierarchy, elders are highly respected.
Other common concepts that shape interactions:
“malu” – social shame or losing face
“gengsi” – doing things for the sake of appearances
“asal bapak senang” – keep the boss happy
“memojokan” – no way to save face in a situation
Potential Impact: Knowledge of these principles and concepts can help you establish rapport quickly and understand your partner force’s frame of reference.
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Social10
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Speak the greeting “salamet” (peace) slowly and with sincerity. Touch both of the other’s hands and bring them back to your chest to show the greeting is heartfelt. Always greet the most senior male first. Don’t initiate handshake with a female. Polite response to “have you eaten?” is Yes, even if you haven’t (esp. true among ethnic Chinese).
Hospitality:
Don’t refuse offers of food or drink, never completely finish offers, and always compliment the food
They generally start social events late (30mins after stated time)
Remove shoes before entering a home
Remove hat/sunglasses when entering a building
Keep both feet on the floor while sitting, don’t cross legs or ankles. Don’t point the bottom of your feet
Host is last to be seated and first to be served. If offered to start the meal as a guest, refuse twice before starting to eat. Wait for invitation before eating.
When offering gifts, only use the right hand (gifts generally not opened before the giver)
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Infrastructure9
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Alexandre Pelletier found a
direct correlation between the
growth of militant Islamist groups
and weak local structure of
religious authority
Key terms:
“kyai” – religious teacher/elder who run a:
“pesantren” – Islamic boarding school
“kabupaten” – Regency
“memojokan” – no way to save face in a situation
Point of Interest: The kyai in West Java are much less influential due to their smaller schools. To gain students, influence, and expand their religious authority they adopt a more “aggressive religious rhetoric” and potentially join or form new militant groups.
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Infrastructure 3,4
Religious Buildings / Sacred Sites: Islam
Largest mosque: Medan al Ma'shun Grand Mosque
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Infrastructure11
Religious Buildings / Sacred Sites: Christian
Indonesian Christian Church of Yasmin
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Point of Interest: This church is a symbol of a 15-year struggle with religious tolerance, harmony, and freedom in Indonesia.
Information8
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Pancasila – five philosophical principals of the Indonesian State: monotheism, humanitarianism, nationalism, consultative democracy, social justice
These principles are taught in schools, minority groups fear that they will increase discrimination over time.
Potential Impact: Pancasila is very likely part of the foundational framework for the worldview of your partner force.
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Time12
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Religious and National Holidays
8 MAR – Maha Shivaratri (Hindu)
11 MAR – “Hari Raya Nyepi” Hindu New Year (Public)
10-12 MAR – Ramadan Start (Based on Moon) (Islam)
25 MAR – Holi (Hindu)
29 MAR – “Wafat Isa Almasih”/“Jumat Agung” Good Friday (Christian)
31 MAR – “Hari Paskah” Easter (Christian)
Potential Impact: Both 11 MAR and 29 MAR are considered Public Holidays. Nyepi on 11 MAR should only affect Bali with respect to traffic. Good Friday (29 MAR) is a larger holiday in Indonesia than Easter. Expect crowding around the Jakarta Cathedral.
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Time13
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Islamic Prayer Times (1 MAR)
Potential Impact: Times vary slightly each day. Consider planning your training breaks around these times to show respect to your partner force.
| Fajr | Sunrise | Dhuhr | Asr | Maghrib | Isha |
| 0435 | 0544 | 1153 | 1455 | 1800 | 1910 |
- Concentration of Taiwanese churches appear to be to the NE of Hu-wei and to the south of Chuanghua.
Islam in Indonesia 2,3
Islam holds significant importance in Indonesian society, influencing various aspects of life including culture, politics, and daily practices. Here's an overview:
Significance: Islam plays a pivotal role in shaping the identity and values of Indonesian society. It serves as a unifying force among diverse ethnic groups and communities across the archipelago(Evans, 2023).
Key Practices and Beliefs: Indonesians adhere to the Five Pillars of Islam, which include the declaration of faith, prayer, fasting during Ramadan, giving of alms, and pilgrimage to Mecca. Additionally, Islamic teachings on morality, family life, and social justice deeply influence Indonesian customs and traditions.
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Significance of Ramadan 1,2,4
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds profound significance in the lives of Muslims as it commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
During Ramadan, Muslims observe fasting from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs, as a means of spiritual purification and self-discipline.
Additionally, Muslims engage in increased prayers, including special nightly prayers called Taraweeh, and partake in community iftars (breaking the fast), fostering a sense of unity and communal harmony.
Understanding the importance of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar is essential for fostering cultural sensitivity and respectful engagement with Muslim communities in Indonesia and beyond.
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Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred time for Muslims, marking the revelation of the Quran. Fasting from dawn to sunset fosters self-discipline and empathy. Increased prayers and communal iftars strengthen bonds within the Muslim community. Understanding Ramadan's significance promotes cultural sensitivity and respectful interaction with Muslims in Indonesia.
Dos During Ramadan 2,4
During Ramadan, it's essential to observe certain respectful behaviors towards those fasting. Here are some dos:
Refrain from Eating, Drinking, or Smoking in Public: Out of respect for those fasting, avoid consuming food, drinks, or smoking in public spaces during fasting hours.
Show Understanding and Support: Demonstrate empathy and support towards colleagues or community members observing Ramadan. Acknowledge their commitment and offer assistance if needed.
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During Ramadan, it's important to show respect and support for those fasting. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public to honor their observance. Engaging in community iftars fosters unity and understanding. Demonstrating empathy and participation enhances relationships with Muslim communities in Indonesia.
Don'ts During Ramadan 2,4
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To ensure respectful engagement during Ramadan, it's important to avoid certain behaviors. Here are some don'ts: Avoid Scheduling Important Meetings or Activities During Iftar or Prayer Times: Respect the religious observance by refraining from scheduling important events during iftar (breaking of the fast) or prayer times. Refrain from Making Insensitive Comments: Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and refrain from making insensitive comments about fasting or Islamic practices. Do Not Consume Food or Drinks in Front of Those Fasting: Out of respect for those fasting, avoid consuming food or drinks in their presence during fasting hours.
During Ramadan, it's crucial to avoid actions that may inadvertently disrespect those fasting. This includes refraining from scheduling important meetings during iftar or prayer times, being mindful of comments, and not consuming food or drinks in front of fasting individuals. Respectful behavior fosters understanding and inclusivity.
Cultural Sensitivities 3,4
Cultural awareness plays a vital role in fostering respectful interactions during Ramadan in Indonesia. Here are key points to consider:
Understanding the Cultural Significance of Ramadan: Recognize the deep-rooted importance of Ramadan in Indonesian society, including its spiritual, social, and cultural dimensions.
Importance of Respecting Religious Practices and Customs: Acknowledge and honor religious practices and customs associated with Ramadan, demonstrating sensitivity and inclusivity.
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-Cultural sensitivity during Ramadan in Indonesia is essential for fostering respectful interactions. Understanding the significance of Ramadan in Indonesian society and respecting religious practices and customs are crucial. This promotes inclusivity and strengthens relationships with Muslim communities. Open Source News and Country Studies provide valuable insights into cultural nuances.
Ramadan Conclusion
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Recap dos:
Respect those fasting
show understanding
Highlight don'ts:
Avoid scheduling important events during iftar or prayer times
refrain from insensitive comments
avoid consuming food or drinks in front of fasting individuals.
Religious Impact Assessment
Religious Tolerance and Diversity is infused in the Indonesian culture and worldview. Case in point, your JCET is impacted by three religious holidays from three different religions. Even so, Java is predominantly Muslim; West Java is more likely to have conservative or militant leaning groups.
Use the social customs and norms to quickly build rapport with your partner force and understand their moral/ethical worldview.
Pay special attention to when Ramadan starts; refrain from eating in front of the partner force.
Plan your training breaks around the prayer times for the day. A printout of all the prayer times for March is included.
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-Cultural sensitivity during Ramadan in Indonesia is essential for fostering respectful interactions. Understanding the significance of Ramadan in Indonesian society and respecting religious practices and customs are crucial. This promotes inclusivity and strengthens relationships with Muslim communities. Open Source News and Country Studies provide valuable insights into cultural nuances.
References
Brown, W. (2021, November 17). Presidio of Monterey BOSS serves community at Veterans Day parade. Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center. https://www.dliflc.edu/presidio-of-monterey-boss-serves-community-at-veterans-day-parade/
Chavda, J. (2023, September 12). Buddhism, Islam and religious pluralism in South and Southeast Asia. Pew Research Center's Religion & Public Life Project. https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/09/12/buddhism-islam-and-religious-pluralism-in-south-and-southeast-asia/
CIA Factbook. (2023, October 3). Indonesia. We are the Nation's first line of defense - CIA. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/indonesia/
Evans, J. (2023, September 12). 5 facts about religion in South and Southeast Asia. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/09/12/5-facts-about-religion-in-south-and-southeast-asia/
(2022) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Java
Rayda, N. (2024, February 6) Indonesia Elections 2024: A Jokowi-backed or Jokowi-like candidate…https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/indonesia-presidential-election-sumatra-4013701
Bonheure, K. and Gantes G. (2021, December 6). Indonesia and Islamic banking: An interview with Hery Gunardi. https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/m-and-a/our-insights/indonesia-and-islamic-banking-an-interview-with-hery-gunardi
2018, DLIFLC “Indonesia in Perspective”
Pelletier, A. (2020, October 25). How Competition for Religious Authority Breeds Islamist Militancy in Java. https://theconversation.com/how-competition-for-religious-authority-breeds-islamist-militancy-in-java-146919
2015 DLIFLC “Indonesian Cultural Orientation”
Marshall, P. (2023, April 25) https://www.hudson.org/religious-freedom/yasmin-church-dispute-reveals-tensions-indonesias-religious-policy
https://www.expat.or.id/info/holidays.html
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