How cultural values foster harmony and tourism Indonesia, a sprawling archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry and the deep humility that defines its people. As a traveller, I had the privilege of exploring this extraordinary nation, focusing on Bali, the historical city of Bandung, and the bustling capital of Jakarta. The people of Indonesia radiate warmth and hospitality, qualities that resonate deeply, especially for nations grappling with internal challenges.
My recent journey revealed a country where humility, tolerance, and a deep sense of community thrive—offering valuable lessons for Ethiopia, which is currently navigating its own political and social complexities. Bali, often dubbed Indonesia’s tourism jewel, is famous not only for its breathtaking beaches and lush landscapes but also for its vibrant cultural heritage. Amid the influx of tourists and the energetic hum of the city, I encountered a profound sense of peace—a balance between tradition and modernity.
The streets of Bali, alive with the buzz of scooters and the chatter of visitors, reflect the island’s seamless blend of natural beauty and global tourism. Gusti Ngurah Arnawa, a seasoned tour guide and travel advisor in Bali, embodies the essence of Indonesian humility. With years of experience, Gusti’s life philosophy is deeply rooted in cultural values.
“Life is short; people need to live it well, enjoying and making the most of every moment,” he shared with a gentle smile. “We Balinese work hard, cherish what we have, and strive to stay positive, avoiding negativity.” Gusti’s perspective is a reflection of the broader ethos that permeates Indonesian society.
Humility is not just a personal trait but a cultural norm, woven into daily interactions. In his role as a guide, Gusti navigates a wide range of behaviors from tourists, yet remains unfazed. He attributes his resilience to the support of his community and upbringing.
“This is our asset,” Gusti explained. “We’ve learned from our families and community to handle different attitudes with grace.” The contrast between Indonesia’s social harmony and Ethiopia’s current political turbulence is striking.
Ethiopia, with its rich historical and cultural legacy, continues to grapple with internal conflicts in regions like Oromia, Amhara, and Tigray. Yet, it is clear that there are valuable lessons Ethiopia could glean from Indonesia’s approach to tolerance and humility. With the potential to transform its diverse cultural heritage into a thriving tourism industry, Ethiopia’s path forward could benefit from adopting Indonesia’s model of societal cohesion.
During a week-long journey through Bali, Bandung, and Jakarta, I was struck by the pervasive culture of tolerance. Indonesians, regardless of their city, religion, or profession, exhibitgenuine openness and respect for others. This attitude extends beyond mere politeness—it reflects a deep cultural commitment to harmony and mutual respect.
DubaleGebyehu, a lecturer and researcher from Hawassa University, specializing in Anthropology and Multiculturalism, echoed this sentiment when we met during my travels. “The unwavering commitment to tolerance and solidarity among Indonesians is a remarkable value that countries like Ethiopia can learn from,” Dubale remarked. He praised Indonesia’s ability to maintain social cohesion amid its vast diversity, which includes over 1,300 ethnic groups and more than 700 languages.
“Ethiopia, with its fewer ethnic and religious groups, has much to learn from this beautiful nation about fostering peace and building a harmonious society,” he said. Dubale’s admiration for Indonesia extended to the cultural vibrancy of Bali, where traditional dances and street food contribute to the island’s irresistible charm. He says what struck him most was how effortlessly Indonesians engage with visitors, their openness to dialogue, and their deep-rooted respect for humanity.
“The humility and respect that Indonesians display are unforgettable,” Dubale added. “Their love for their country and the reverence they show for their national heroes is something Ethiopia can certainly aspire to.” Dubale also reflected on the role of historical context in shaping national identity.
He drew a parallel between Ethiopia’s struggles with historical legacies and Indonesia’s use of history as a foundation for national pride and unity. “While some nations remain entangled in past grievances, others use their history as a stepping stone toward a stronger identity,” he said. “Indonesia’s approach offers a lesson in how to harness historical lessons for national cohesion.
” The recent 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF), held in Bali from September 1-3, 2024, underscores Indonesia’s commitment to international cooperation and its emerging role as a mediator between diverse regions. The high-level summit convened delegates from 29 nations, including heads of state and ministers from Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Ghana, Liberia, Tanzania, Eswatini, and other African countries. It served as a platform to discuss collaborations in energy, food security, health, and minerals—areas of mutual interest between Indonesia and African nations.
President Joko Widodo used the forum to articulate his vision for enhancing Indonesia’s global presence, positioning the country as a leading voice of the Global South. The summit reinforced Indonesia’s dedication to fostering partnerships and reviving the spirit of Bandung, a legacy of the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference, which laid the groundwork for Indonesia-Africa relations. One of the forum’s key outcomes was the rise in cooperation commitments, which jumped to USD 3.
5 billion from USD 568 million at the first forum in 2018. This sharp rise reflects Indonesia’s proactive stance in strengthening ties with African nations and its commitment to addressing global challenges through collaboration. While Ethiopia was invited to the forum, its representation was limited to private sector delegates, with no official participation from government officials.
This absence highlights a missed opportunity for Ethiopia to engage more deeply with international partners. Indonesia’s example of humility, tolerance, and the peaceful coexistence observed in Indonesian society, alongside the nation’s ability to engage meaningfully with diverse global partners, offers insights into how Ethiopia might address its own challenges. By embracing these principles and fostering a culture of mutual respect, Ethiopia could pave the way for a more harmonious and resilient society.
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