Body Language
Good relationships involve a great deal of physical contact and touching. But, foreigners should allow time to be accepted and to develop good relationships before this is acceptable.
Indonesians are used to an overcrowded society; they tend to ignore inadvertent invasions of space. Allowing for personal space is a sign of respect.
A man does not touch a woman in public except to shake hands. Do not display affection in public.
The head is where the spirit resides and is considered sacred. Do not touch a person’s head.
Keep both feet on the floor when sitting. Do not cross your legs, especially not with an ankle over the knee. Sitting with good posture (rigid) and both feet on the floor is a sign of respect. Don’t allow the bottom of your feet to face or point at another person.
Looking someone straight in the eyes is considered staring. Avoid prolonged eye contact, which may be viewed as a challenge and may cause anger.
Point with your thumb, not your index finger. Never beckon with one finger.
The left hand is considered unclean. Do not touch food, pass or receive anything, touch anyone or point with your left hand.
Approval is sometimes shown with a pat on the shoulder, but American-style backslapping is considered offensive.