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Navigating Indonesian Identity in Singapore

Aug 19, 2024

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.