There is a certain charm in living and doing business in Indonesia. It is not only the warm weather and smiling faces but the number of hidden opportunities that foreigners find intriguing. Many settle down with families while others look for business opportunities.
However, there are still plenty of aspects that come as a surprise to people. Thus, to make it simpler for future expats in Indonesia, we decided to approach those who already have thorough experience with the country.
Here is what they thought would be useful advice to share with fellow travelers planning their relocation.
What is your one advice for living and doing business in Indonesia?
#1 Research About Local Regulations
“It may take some time to adjust to the way people do business here, but at the end of the day, you will find it rewarding and worth your while. Indonesians can be rather laid back, but that does not mean they are not professional.
#2 Foreigners Have Plenty of Opportunities in Indonesia
“When looking to set up in Indonesia, and in other jurisdictions, it is critical to get good advice or legal counsel from multiple sources. Incorporation processes are not as straightforward as they are in some other countries so it is important to get clear guidance before embarking on the registration processes.
#3 Choose Location Based on Internet Availability
"Research the availability of internet in your area before you choose where to live."
Photo by Joshua Newton on Unsplash
#4 Enjoy the Diverse Culture of the Archipelago
“Keep your mind open and get out and enjoy variety of restaurants and their cuisines, hip cafes, modern exhibits, shops filled with treasures, and more in the city. You will be amazed by the edgy and stylish designs and talents of the people.
Being in the country for longer, consider applying for Multiple-entry Business Visa. This allows re-entering to Indonesia multiple times during one year. This is a convenient way to see and experience all the wonderful things Kaho from Chuzai Living described.
#5 Access Your Digital Marketing Potential
“Since I live and work in digital environment, my advice is to use all the digital tools that you have free access to, and do it wisely. Promote your business digitally, understand how consumer behaves in this digital era.
Photo by Robert Collins on Unsplash
#6 Moving to Indonesia With Family
“Moving to Bali is an exciting opportunity but also a great challenge. Please give yourself at least 6 months to feel like you are starting to settle in.
Moving the entire family can be overwhelming as it requires a thorough research and preparation. Our Year in Bali does provide many insights, support and great stories from life for those looking for that additional assurance before starting their journey.
As for families the backlash from undone paperwork can be heavier, we advise to keep an eye on correct and timely documentation from the beginning. A bit of helpful information here: How to Live in Bali as an Expat With Family.
#7 Local Languages in Indonesia
“Study the culture first. Different area has different culture, also study Bahasa Indonesia and local language. Every area has different local language.”
#8 Finding Trustful Indonesian Friends
“If you want to enjoy easier life in Indonesia and start your own business - one of the most important thing - to find and have trustful Indonesian friends.
Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash
#9 Building Relationships and Being Patient is Key
“I’ve found one of the keys to living and doing business in Indonesia is patience. In work and in life things often take a little bit more time.
#10 Focus on the Geographical Potential
“I would like to say as Indonesia is a country comprising wide and various geography and demography, it's the fact that living and doing business entities are mostly centralized in Java Island and its surrounding neighbourhood.
#11 Accommodation in Bali
“I don't have experience with the rest of Indonesia but in Bali you'll want to avoid looking for accommodation rentals online as they tend to be luxury rentals that are incredibly overpriced.
#12 One of the fastest Growing Economies in Southeast Asia
“Indonesia market has a big potential to grow faster compare to other Southeast Asian countries. Indonesia is a land truly rife with business opportunities.
Photo by Muhammad Raufan Yusup on Unsplash
#13 Digital Era on the Rising
“It is quite hard if you are new as foreigner doing business in Indonesia because of regulations, but if you have local partner it will be easier to process it. The effective business on Indonesia is still on food, natural resource and textile, but right now because all country are moving to digital era. Indonesian government is pushing startup environment to help more opportunities in grow in digital, also they are emerge with more infrastructure development to help more businesses grow.
Well, before coming. I would say be careful to trust Indonesia businessman or people who get your intention to have business with. The culture that they have too, learn also. Indonesian people are so laid back for doing business, so do not hope for fast phase, but remember markets are so consumptive, so if you want fast phase business choose consuming business.
In conclusion, do your research in order to enjoy the journey in Indonesia to the fullest. Once already arrived, value your contacts to become a part of the community. Having patience and appreciation either when conducting business or living in the area will help you move closer to the personal goals set. If you have experience in Indonesia that future expats would appreciate, make sure to leave us a comment below.
Featured image by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash