Language and Dialects

There are about 583 languages spoken by as many distinct ethnic groups across the archipelago. There are five main language groups on Sumatra alone, six on Sulawesi and three on Java. One small island, Alor in Nusa Tenggara has seven different language groups! The Balinese speak their own language, and many local languages are further divided by special forms for addressing someone of inferior, equal or superior social status. Adding even more spice to this linguistic stew, all these language are also spoken in a number of different local dialects.

Bahasa Indonesia, the official national language, is akin to Malay, and is written in Roman script and based on European orthography. English is the most widely used foreign language for business and travel alike. Wherever you go you will be greeted by the familiar “Hello Mr.! (Regardless of your sex)”. In some of the bigger cities and tourist destinations, Dutch is still used, and the influence of Dutch in Bahasa Indonesia is quite obvious. French is increasing its popularity in the better hotels and restaurants.