Gift giving etiquette for ethnic Malays / Muslims:
• . In Islam alcohol is forbidden. Only give alcohol if you know the recipient will appreciate it.
. Any food substance should be "halal"
- things that are not halal include anything with alcoholic ingredients or anything with pork derivatives such as gelatine. Halal meat means the animal has been slaughtered according to
Islamic principles.
. Offer gifts with the right hand only.
. Gifts are not opened when received.
• Gift giving etiquette for ethnic Indians:
• . Offer gifts with the right hand only.
. Wrap gifts in red, yellow or green paper or other bright colors as these bring good fortune.
. Do not give leather products to a Hindu.
. Do not give alcohol unless you are certain the recipient imbibes.
. Gifts are not opened when received
Communication Styles
• . Indonesians are indirect communicators. This means they do not always say what they mean. It is up to the listener to read between the lines or pay attention to gestures and body language to get the real message.
. Generally speaking Indonesians speak quietly and with a subdued tone. Loud people would come across as slightly aggressive. Business is personal in Indonesia so spend time through
communication to build a strong relationship. Dealing with someone face-to-face is the only effective way of doing business.
. Indonesians abhor confrontation due to the potential loss of face. To be polite, they may tell you what they think you want to hear. If you offend them, they will mask their feelings and maintain a veil of civility. If an Indonesian begins to avoid you or acts coldly towards
you, there is a serious problem.