23 Sep Coffee, cloth and citizens in multicultural harmony

Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world but, like Asian neighbours, long standing religious tolerance and acceptance of diversity is a hallmark. In his first interview after being re-elected in 2019 last year, President Jokowi said that he believed that Islam in Indonesia is tolerant, forward thinking and modern.

Indonesia’s ideological motto “Unity in Diversity'” signifies the country’s myriad cultures and ethnicities with all its people living together largely in peace. As one of the most ethnically diverse societies, Indonesia consists of 1,300 ethnic groups with at least 95% native to the archipelago. Minority migrant groups, such as Chinese, Arab and Indian, make up the remainder.

The fascinating, unique handicraft of batik, a traditional method of fabric dyeing said to have originated in Java, is a source of pride for the entire nation and is rooted in culture, tradition and creativity. Batik has been embraced by many organizations as acceptable formal business dress code and for special occasions. Indonesian chefs have used influences from the West to blend with traditional local and other south-east Asian flavours to create an exciting fusion cuisine.

Java, also known as coffee, is the most iconic Indonesian variety with other premium farm-to-cup varieties coming from the regions of Sulawesi and Sumatra. Indonesia is the world’s third largest producer of coffee and is known for its unique coffee culture. You are invited to try the exotic Kopi Luwak.