Indonesia Facts

Indonesia, a state in the island world of Southeast Asia; 1.9 million km², 267.7 million residents (2019).Indonesia comprises 13,600 islands, of which about 6,000 are inhabited. Of the islands entirely included in Indonesia, the largest are Sumatra (with adjacent small islands totaling 480 793km ², just over 63.6 million residents in 2019), Sulawesi (188 522 km ², 19.5 million residents), Java with Madura (129,438 km ², 145 million residents) and Bali (5,780 km ², 4.4 million residents). In addition, 2/3 of Kalimantan (Borneo) with 544 150 km ² and 16.2 million residents, Papua (western half of the island of New Guinea) with 416 060 km ²and 3.3 million residents as well as the Small Sunda Islands east of Bali and the Moluccan Islands between Sulawesi and New Guinea. The capital is Jakarta (10.5 million residents in 2019).

Country facts

• Republic of Indonesia / Republic of Indonesia
• Country abbreviation: ID
• Area: 1.9 million km²
• Population (2019): 267.7 million residents
• Capital: Jakarta
• Main languages: Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia), Javanese
• State: Republic
• Head of State and Head of Government: Joko Widodo (President)
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 3,894
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 3,840
• Currency unit: 1 rupiah = 100 sen
• Currency code: IDR
• Country number (telephony): 62
• Internet domain name: id
• Time difference compared to Sweden: +6 to +8
• National Day: August 17 (Independence Day, 1945)

Nature

• Land use: forest (76%), agricultural land (17%), other (7%)
• Highest mountain: Jaya (5,030 m above sea level)

Population

• Population density (2019): 141 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 1.1%; birth rate 18 ‰, death rate 7 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (27%), 15-64 (67%), 65- (6%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 69 years, women 73 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 25 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 331 million residents
• HDI (2017: 0.694 (place 116 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 54%
• Most populous cities (2019): Jakarta (10.5 million residents), Surabaya (2.9 million), Bandung (2.6 million)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (14%), industry (41%), service (45%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 168,900 million
• Main export products: crude oil, natural gas
• Main exporting countries: China, USA, Japan
• Imports (2017): US $ 150,100 million
• Main import products: machinery, chemicals, fuel
• Main importing countries: China, Singapore, Japan
• Railway network (2014): 8,200 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Indonesia is an archipelago located in Southeast Asia and Oceania, comprising more than 17,000 islands, making it the largest island country in the world. The country stretches across the equator, giving it a strategic location between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Indonesia shares land borders with Malaysia on the island of Borneo, Papua New Guinea on the island of New Guinea, and East Timor on the island of Timor. Its proximity to Australia to the south and the Philippines to the north adds to its geopolitical significance.

Indonesia’s vast and diverse geography makes it a significant player in the region, both in terms of trade and political influence. The archipelago spans about 5,000 kilometers from east to west, and more than 1,700 islands are inhabited. Among the most populous and well-known islands are Java, Sumatra, Borneo (Kalimantan), Sulawesi, and New Guinea, each of which has its own distinct cultures and ecosystems.

Major Landforms

Indonesia’s geography is dominated by its mountainous terrain, volcanoes, and extensive coastlines. The island of Java, home to the capital city Jakarta and more than half of Indonesia’s population, is particularly mountainous, with active volcanoes such as Mount Merapi. The volcanic belt in Indonesia, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, makes the country prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Indonesia has over 130 active volcanoes, some of which are among the most active in the world, like Mount Merapi and Mount Krakatau.

Sumatra, to the west of Java, is characterized by thick tropical rainforests and mountains. The island is home to some of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, with the Bukit Barisan mountains running along its length. Kalimantan (the Indonesian portion of Borneo) is covered by dense rainforests and swampy lowlands, with the Mahakam and Kapuas rivers serving as important transportation routes.

Sulawesi, another major island, is distinguished by its unusual shape, with large peninsulas and mountain ranges that create natural barriers for settlement. The island is home to various unique ecosystems and is one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth.

New Guinea, split between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, features vast rainforests and mountain ranges, including the central highlands where the highest peaks in Indonesia can be found, such as Puncak Jaya (Carstensz Pyramid), which rises over 4,800 meters above sea level.

Rivers and Lakes

Indonesia has an extensive river network, with some of the most important rivers located on the larger islands of Sumatra, Borneo, and New Guinea. The Kapuas River on Borneo is the longest river in Indonesia, stretching over 1,100 kilometers. It is a vital waterway for transportation and has played a key role in the economic activities of Kalimantan.

In Sumatra, the Batang Hari River is one of the longest, while the Musi River flows through Palembang and serves as an essential route for transportation and trade. Other significant rivers include the Mahakam River in Kalimantan and the Irian Jaya River in Papua. These rivers support agriculture, local economies, and communities along their banks, providing irrigation for crops like rice and palm oil.

Indonesia’s lakes are primarily found in volcanic craters. Lake Toba, located on the island of Sumatra, is one of the largest volcanic lakes in the world. It was formed after a massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago and remains a crucial cultural and tourist site. Other notable lakes include Lake Maninjau in Sumatra and Lake Poso in Sulawesi, which are important for both freshwater fishing and tourism.

Climate

Tropical Climate Zones

Indonesia lies along the equator, and its climate is tropical, characterized by high humidity and temperature, with significant seasonal rainfall. The average temperature throughout the country ranges between 25°C and 30°C year-round. The temperature remains fairly consistent due to Indonesia’s equatorial location, making it ideal for the growth of lush tropical rainforests and agriculture.

Indonesia experiences two primary seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season typically lasts from November to March, driven by the monsoon winds, which bring heavy rains, particularly in the western regions. The dry season, from April to October, is marked by less rainfall and is generally more favorable for agriculture and tourism.

Rainfall is most abundant in the central and western parts of Indonesia, particularly in Sumatra, Borneo, and Papua. These regions receive the most rainfall and are covered by dense tropical rainforests. The eastern and southern parts of Indonesia, including parts of Sulawesi and Nusa Tenggara, receive less rainfall and are considered more arid, though still tropical in climate.

Seasonal Variation

The wet and dry seasons greatly influence Indonesia’s agriculture and daily life. The wet season brings torrential rains that are necessary for growing crops such as rice, cassava, and palm oil. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to flooding and landslides, particularly in the mountainous areas. The dry season, conversely, is a critical time for the harvest of crops, as the relatively dry conditions make transportation easier and provide favorable conditions for fieldwork.

During the dry season, wildfires become a common issue, particularly in Sumatra and Borneo, where farmers and corporations sometimes use fire to clear land for agriculture. These fires can lead to significant environmental damage, haze, and poor air quality, which can affect neighboring countries like Malaysia and Singapore.

People

Demographics

Indonesia has a population of over 270 million people, making it the fourth most populous country in the world. The country is a melting pot of ethnicities, languages, and religions, with more than 300 ethnic groups and over 700 spoken languages. The largest ethnic group is the Javanese, who make up about 40% of the population. Other major ethnic groups include the Sundanese, Malays, Madurese, and Bataks.

The majority of Indonesia’s population lives on the island of Java, which contains the country’s largest cities, including Jakarta, the capital. Java is also the political and economic center of Indonesia. Other major urban centers include Surabaya, Medan, and Bandung. Outside of Java, Indonesia has a significant number of rural communities, particularly on the islands of Sumatra, Bali, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi.

Indonesia’s population is predominantly young, with a median age of around 30 years. The country has experienced rapid population growth, particularly in urban areas. However, Indonesia faces challenges such as income inequality, poverty, and limited access to education and healthcare in rural and remote regions.

Language and Religion

Indonesia is a multilingual and multi-religious country. The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, a standardized form of Malay, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population and used for government, education, and media. However, there are hundreds of regional languages spoken across the country, including Javanese, Sundanese, Balinese, and Minangkabau, among others.

Religion plays an essential role in Indonesian society, with Islam being the dominant religion. Approximately 87% of the population adheres to Islam, making Indonesia the largest Muslim-majority country in the world. However, Indonesia is also home to significant Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist populations, especially in regions like Bali (Hinduism), North Sulawesi (Christianity), and parts of Papua (Christianity).

Indonesia’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, and religious tolerance is a significant part of the country’s national identity. However, religious tensions can arise, particularly between Muslims and Christians in some regions, such as in Maluku and Central Sulawesi.

Economy

Economic Overview

Indonesia has a mixed economy, with a combination of agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The country is classified as an emerging market and is the largest economy in Southeast Asia. It is a member of the G20 and is one of the world’s largest economies by purchasing power parity. The economy is highly reliant on exports, with significant contributions from oil and gas, coal, palm oil, rubber, coffee, and textiles.

Agriculture plays a major role in the Indonesian economy, particularly in rural areas. Rice is a staple crop and is grown in irrigated fields, with the country being one of the largest producers of rice in Southeast Asia. Other important agricultural products include palm oil, coffee, tea, and spices. Indonesia’s tropical climate is ideal for the cultivation of crops, and the country is a leading exporter of commodities such as palm oil, rubber, and cocoa.

Indonesia’s manufacturing sector has grown rapidly in recent decades, particularly in textiles, automotive, electronics, and chemicals. The country is a major exporter of textiles and garments, and foreign direct investment in manufacturing continues to drive economic growth.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its economic growth, Indonesia faces several challenges, including income inequality, environmental degradation, and inadequate infrastructure. The country’s infrastructure remains underdeveloped, particularly in rural and remote areas, limiting access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

Additionally, the country’s reliance on natural resources, particularly coal and palm oil, has led to deforestation and environmental degradation. The government has made efforts to address these challenges by promoting sustainable development and diversifying the economy through investments in technology, tourism, and renewable energy.

Indonesia’s large and youthful population offers significant opportunities for growth, particularly in the digital economy and services sectors. The rise of the internet and mobile phone penetration has enabled the growth of e-commerce, fintech, and digital platforms, making Indonesia one of the fastest-growing digital markets in Southeast Asia.

Government

Political Structure

Indonesia is a presidential republic, with a multi-party system. The President of Indonesia serves as both the head of state and head of government, holding executive powers. The president is elected directly by the people for a five-year term and can serve a maximum of two terms. The president appoints the cabinet, which is responsible for running the various ministries of the government.

Indonesia’s legislative branch is a bicameral system, consisting of the People’s Representative Council (DPR) and the Regional Representative Council (DPD). The DPR is the main legislative body, with 575 members elected through proportional representation, while the DPD has 136 members who represent regions and provinces. The judiciary is independent, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest judicial authority in the country.

Political History

Indonesia’s political history is marked by its struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule, which lasted for over three centuries. The country declared independence in 1945, following the end of World War II, but faced years of armed resistance and political turmoil. After gaining independence, Indonesia became a republic, with President Sukarno as the first leader. Sukarno’s rule was marked by authoritarianism and the implementation of a policy of “guided democracy,” which led to economic difficulties and political instability.

In 1965, a failed coup attempt resulted in a violent purge of communists and left-wing activists, which eventually led to General Suharto coming to power. Suharto ruled Indonesia with an iron fist for over three decades, overseeing rapid economic growth but also widespread corruption and human rights abuses. His regime ended in 1998, following an economic crisis and mass protests.

Since the fall of Suharto, Indonesia has transitioned to a more democratic system, with free and fair elections, a vibrant press, and civil society participation. However, the country continues to face challenges related to corruption, political instability, and regional autonomy, particularly in provinces like Aceh and Papua.

Culture

Art and Music

Indonesia has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its diverse ethnic groups and history. Traditional Indonesian art includes painting, sculpture, textiles, and performance arts. Batik, a form of fabric dyeing that uses wax to create intricate patterns, is widely recognized as part of Indonesia’s cultural identity. Traditional wood carvings, especially in Bali and Java, are also well-known for their beauty and craftsmanship.

Indonesian music is diverse and varies from region to region, with traditional music often incorporating percussion instruments, stringed instruments, and wind instruments. Gamelan, a traditional form of ensemble music from Java and Bali, is particularly famous for its unique sounds created by metallophones, drums, and gongs.

Festivals and Cuisine

Indonesia celebrates numerous festivals, most of which are tied to its cultural and religious traditions. Religious holidays such as Eid al-Fitr (the end of Ramadan), Nyepi (Balinese New Year), and Waisak (Buddha’s birthday) are celebrated nationwide, with unique local customs and rituals in different regions. Bali’s Galungan festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil, and the Jakarta International Film Festival are other notable events in the country’s cultural calendar.

Indonesian cuisine is varied and flavorful, with each region offering distinct dishes. Rice is the staple food, and it is often served with dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (grilled meat skewers), and rendang (a slow-cooked beef curry). Indonesian food incorporates an array of spices, including turmeric, ginger, and chili, creating a rich, aromatic flavor profile.

Literature and Cinema

Indonesian literature is marked by a strong oral tradition, with storytelling being an important part of cultural life. Written literature in the form of poetry, novels, and plays emerged during the colonial period, with authors like Pramoedya Ananta Toer gaining international recognition for their works, particularly on themes of national identity, colonialism, and the struggle for independence. The country’s modern literature continues to reflect these themes, with a focus on social issues and political change.

Indonesian cinema is also growing in prominence, with films like The Act of Killing and The Raid gaining international attention. Indonesian films often explore themes of social justice, history, and personal identity, with filmmakers using their work to engage with political and cultural issues.

Indonesia Map