Indonesian Identity in Singapore: A Conversation with Monica

Introduction

• Interviewee: Monica, Indonesian citizen living in Singapore for over 20 years.
• Discusses experiences of giving up Indonesian passport, mentality differences, and stereotypes of Indonesians in Singapore.

The Indonesian Community in Singapore

• Size of Community:

  • Large Indonesian community in Singapore.
  • Many Indonesians send children to Singapore for education (primary and secondary school).
  • Safety and proximity are major factors for parents.

• Jobs Held by Indonesians:

  • Current job sectors: Tech, IT, finance, banking, and creative industries (art directors, video editors).
  • Historically, more Indonesians worked in corporate management and banking.
  • Indonesia is seen as a significant market, leading many to learn business strategies in Singapore.

Work Dynamics and Market Connections

• Employment Trends:

  • More Indonesians are working in Singapore while targeting the Indonesian market.
  • Growth of Indonesian companies in Singapore and Singaporean companies entering Indonesia.

• Residential Areas:

  • Popular areas for Indonesians include Mission, East Singapore (Juchat, Gatong).
  • Many own property as investments, not necessarily for living.

Stereotypes and Wealth

• Rich Indonesians in Singapore:
  • There is some truth to the stereotype of wealthy Indonesians buying property in Singapore.
  • Wealthy families like the Nassim Hills and Tangmins are part of the community but also have separate social circles.

Community and Social Interactions

• Social Dynamics:

  • Indonesians tend to form a solid community when together, yet can mingle with others.
  • Conversations often revolve around home, provinces, and personal experiences.
  • Ethnic diversity within the community (Sumatra, Java, Bali, etc.).

• Integration Abroad:

  • Outside Indonesia, ethnic segregation is less noticeable.
  • The focus is on shared experience and community support.

Personal Challenges and Adaptation

• Initial Struggles:

  • Monica struggled with the fast-paced work culture in Singapore, feeling overwhelmed initially.

• Giving Up Indonesian Passport:

  • The emotional challenge of detaching from her identity.
  • Family support helped ease the transition.
  • Despite the emotional difficulty, she feels at home in Singapore.

Identity and Cultural Integration

• Blending Cultures:
  • After 20 years, Monica identifies as 90% Singaporean but retains 10% of her Indonesian culture.
  • Attributes of Singaporean mentality include efficiency, productivity, and planning.
  • Indonesian creativity and teamwork spirit remain part of her identity.

Family Life in Singapore

• Raising Children:

  • Monica speaks about the challenges and joys of raising three boys in Singapore, emphasizing the need for planning and energy.
  • Financially manageable with strategic planning.

• Cultural Exposure:

  • Ensuring children are exposed to Indonesian culture through regular visits and family interactions.
  • Emphasizes the importance of understanding different cultures.

Experiences in Indonesia

• Visiting Indonesia:

  • Feeling at home upon arrival in Jakarta.
  • The contrast of life in Singapore and Indonesia, and adjusting mindset accordingly.

• Family Dynamics:

  • Strong extended family connections in Indonesia, with family gatherings still common.
  • Importance of maintaining close family ties.

Dating and Relationships

• Cultural Differences:
  • Dating experiences vary based on family traditions and values.
  • Some families are protective, especially regarding daughters.

Observations on Indonesian Society

• Challenges in Indonesia:
  • Observations on work pace and cultural habits, like queuing.
  • Recognizes improvements within the Indonesian workforce adapting to global standards.

Travel Recommendations

• Top Places in Indonesia:
  1. Mountains: Bromo, Rinjani, Kintamani.
  2. Oceans: Raja Ampat, Labuan Bajo, Munaken.
  3. Cities: Bali, Yogyakarta, Bandung.

Financial Insights

• Money Management:
  • Emphasizes strategic planning for income and investments (real estate, stocks).
  • Importance of passive income and financial independence.

Life Principles

• Key Principles:
  • Don't assume, never settle, mutual respect, and fairness in relationships.
  • Importance of planning and adaptability in life and career.

Conclusion

• Meaning of Life:
  • Focus on profit, passion, and purpose.
  • Engaging with the community and inspiring others has become Monica's purpose after 20 years in Singapore.