Local Customs & Etiquette in Tangerang, Jawa Barat, Indonesia

All Topics about Tangerang All Cities in Indonesia

1. Tangerang Market Etiquette

Know the haggling customs when buying at local markets. Prices are usually negotiable but have a fair limit.

Understanding Pricing: Recognize that initial prices may be higher than the actual selling price.
Respectful Negotiation: Negotiate politely and avoid being too aggressive or offending the seller.
Bargain Fairly: Set a reasonable price limit to maintain good relations with the local vendors.

Shaking hands is common when meeting new people. Address others using the title 'Pak' (Mr.) or 'Ibu' (Mrs.).

Handshake Manner: A firm handshake with eye contact is appropriate.
Title Usage: Always use the correct title followed by the person's name when addressing them.
Formal Titles: Even if you know someone on a first-name basis, it is still polite to use their formal title in conversation.

Use your right hand for eating and passing dishes. It is also customary to decline food offers several times before accepting.

Dining with the Right Hand: Use a spoon or fork if available, but do not mix them.
Declining Food Offers: A polite way to refuse food is by saying 'Mohon maaf'
Eating Slowly and Carefully: Eat slowly, wait for others to finish before starting your meal.

Modest clothing is advised, especially when visiting religious sites or mosques. Avoid revealing outfits.

Covering Arms and Legs: Wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts.
Head Coverings: Female visitors may be required to wear a headscarf in mosques.
Respectful Attire: Dress appropriately to show respect for local customs and traditions.

Avoid consuming food from street vendors while walking. Find a seat nearby to eat.

Eating at a Seat: Sit down before eating the food you buy from street vendors.
Properly Disposing of Waste: Dispose of any waste in a trash bin after finishing your meal.
Respect for Vendors: Treat street food vendors with respect and fairness.

Gifts are appreciated but not always expected. Avoid giving alcohol or anything related to death as gifts.

Appropriate Gifts: Choose gifts that reflect positivity, happiness, and good luck.
Avoidance of Alcohol: Alcohol is considered inappropriate for gift-giving as it is associated with mourning rituals.
Gift Wrapping: Gifts should be attractively wrapped, especially during special occasions like Idul Fitri or Christmas.

Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in traditional villages. Respect local privacy.

Asking Permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Respecting Privacy: Do not take photos inside homes or sacred areas without permission.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of local customs and traditions when taking photos.

Respect the environment by not littering. Swimming is allowed only in designated areas.

Environmental Responsibility: Dispose of trash properly to preserve the beauty of Tangerang's beaches.
Designated Swimming Areas: Swim only in areas marked safe for swimming.
Respecting Local Rules: Familiarize yourself with the beach rules to ensure a pleasant and safe visit.

Remove shoes before entering the mosque. Women should wear a headscarf and dress modestly.

Removing Shoes: Place your shoes at the designated shoe racks outside the mosque.
Wearing a Headscarf: Female visitors should wear a headscarf provided inside the mosque.
Respectful Behavior: Speak quietly and avoid loud noises while in the mosque.

Punctuality is important. Dress professionally and bring business cards for networking.

Punctuality: Arrive on time or slightly early to show respect for your counterparts.
Business Cards: Exchange business cards after introducing yourself.
Professional Dress Code: Wear business formal attire to show respect and professionalism.

Give up your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or disabled passengers.

Seating Priority: Offer your seat to those in need without being asked.
Personal Space: Maintain personal space and avoid crowding other passengers.
Quiet Behavior: Speak quietly to maintain a peaceful and comfortable environment on public transport.

Service charges are usually included in restaurant bills. Tip only if service was exceptional.

Included Service Charge: Check your bill for any included service charge.
Exceptional Service: Tip only when the service was exceptional or exceeded expectations.
Rounding Up the Bill: A small tip, like rounding up the bill to the nearest thousand, is appreciated.

Cyclists should ride on the left side of the road and follow traffic rules.

Riding on the Left Side: Stay as far to the left as possible when cycling.
Following Traffic Rules: Obey traffic signs, signals, and laws while cycling.
Respect for Pedestrians: Yield to pedestrians and give them right-of-way when crossing paths.

Remove shoes before entering the home. Offer a small gift upon arrival.

Removing Shoes: Leave your shoes at the entrance or provide slippers if offered.
Offering a Small Gift: A small gift like flowers, chocolates, or a pack of cigarettes is appropriate.
Respectful Behavior: Speak politely and avoid loud noises while visiting someone's home.

Avoid using sarcasm or humor that may offend others. Be respectful and considerate.

Avoiding Sarcasm: Speak clearly and avoid any sarcastic remarks.
Respectful Tone: Maintain a respectful tone when addressing others.
Consideration for Others: Be mindful of the feelings and opinions of those around you.