Introduction: A Juxtaposition of Beauty and Stress

Indonesia, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and diverse culture, remains a destination of choice for many expatriates seeking a different way of life. The country offers a unique blend of stunning vistas and cultural richness, making it an appealing destination for those looking to embrace a new lifestyle. Yet, the experience of living and working in Indonesia is a dual narrative, born out of both awe and hardship.

Living and Working in Indonesia

As a foreigner, the process of setting up a life and career in Indonesia can be both exhilarating and challenging. One of the most significant requirements for living in Indonesia long-term is obtaining a permanent residency card. This can be achieved after five years of legal residence in the country, either through the KITAS/ITAS visa or the KITAP, which is valid for five years and can be extended as long as the individual continues to meet the necessary requirements.

From my personal experience, I have spent three years working as a TV news cameraman in Indonesia. This experience was a mix of cultural immersion and bureaucratic challenges. While I enjoyed the endless beauty of the Indonesian countryside, including Bali, Celewesie, Flores, Lombok, and Kalimantan, the tourist areas, particularly in Bali, left me with a sense of disappointment. On the other hand, the people from these regions were generally hospitable. However, the Javanese and Sumatrans were often described as unsociable.

Challenges Encountered

My experience in Indonesia was marked by numerous stress factors, including an inefficient, corrupt, and often lazy government administration. As a newsman, I encountered significant restrictions on my work, with the Indonesian government showing a particular antipathy towards Australian news personnel following the killings of newspeople in East Timor in 1975. Many times, I was denied the opportunity to cover stories, and I often found myself restricted in my movements, particularly in Jakarta. On several occasions, the government expelled me due to my investigative work.

The Bright Side of Living in Indonesia

Despite the myriad challenges, my experience in Indonesia was far from entirely negative. The warm and friendly people, the rich cultural tapestry, and the natural beauty of the country were more than enough to make up for the difficulties. The mango juice, Javanese tea, and Balinese massages became a regular part of my life as a coping mechanism for the stress.

A Love for Indonesia

My journey in Indonesia began with a visit to Bali, where I experienced the profound influence of the local culture and natural beauty. This experience was followed by a series of visits to Surabaya and other tourist attractions such as Gunung Kawi, Solo, Yogyakarta, Borobudur, and Prambanan. These experiences gradually grew into a deep desire to live in the country permanently. Even after returning to Australia, the thought of returning to Indonesia continued to haunt me. Finally, after saving enough money, I returned to Jakarta to work as an ESL teacher, making the decision to stay in the country a reality.

The Importance of Immerse Yourself in the Culture

For those considering living in Indonesia, I offer a few pieces of advice. Firstly, avoid living with other expatriates. This will limit your cultural immersion and hinder your ability to truly experience the local way of life. Secondly, learn the local language as quickly as possible. Mastering Bahasa Indonesia, particularly the informal version, will greatly enhance your understanding and connectivity with the local community. Lastly, embrace the richness of Indonesian culture and the natural beauty of the country. Indonesia will undoubtedly be an enriching experience.

Conclusion

My time in Indonesia was filled with both difficulties and joys. While the government's approach to foreign correspondents was often restrictive, the warmth of the local people and the breathtaking beauty of the country made the experience almost worthwhile. For anyone considering a similar journey, I hold that Indonesia is indeed a gem that is well worth the effort.

Semoga perjalananmu menyenangkan! Salam sejahtera.