Cultural Diversities in Indonesia

Cultural Diversities in Indonesia

All countries have different characteristics of culture, including Indonesia. Our country is well known as a country of various cultures, and that is become the attraction of Indonesia. There are three reasons that cause cultural diversities in Indonesia.

            First, Indonesia has a strategic location. It is located between two oceans and two continents. Therefore, Indonesia has become a path of international trade. As a result, the foreigners bring their culture that influences Indonesian culture then becomes a new culture in Indonesia. The example is Hindu culture that entered Indonesia due to brought by Indians people.

            Second, Indonesia has acculturation of culture. It can occur when there are two cultures that meet and blend, then the culture that has strong influences will be a major role in acculturation. Indonesia has three acculturation periods. At first, Hinduism and Buddhist were very dominant culture in Indonesia. Second, that culture began to fade away because the emergences of new religions whose bring culture that can blend with Indonesian culture. Third, the new religion cultures become stronger especially Islam than Hinduism and Buddhist cultures.

            Thirdly, Indonesia has religious differences. Religions that have been recognized by Indonesia are six. There are Islam, Protestant, Catholic, Hinduism, Buddhist, and Kong Hu Cu. Each religion has their culture that can enrich our culture. The examples are life in Aceh and Bali was very different, because the rules in Aceh are based on Islam meanwhile, in Bali based on Hinduism.

            In conclusion, cultural diversities causes by location, acculturation, and religion. Therefore, as Indonesia people, we must be proud of cultural wealth in Indonesia.

By : Anisa Azzahra