For individuals employed at companies in Indonesia or expatriates stationed there, it is not uncommon to be invited to a wedding by Indonesian superiors, colleagues, or subordinates.

Weddings in Indonesia vary significantly depending on religion and region, and there are many rules that differ from those in Japan. As such, attending a wedding for the first time may be confusing. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to familiarize yourself in advance with the basic information regarding the wedding process, monetary gifts, and attire.

This article outlines the characteristics of weddings in Indonesia, how they differ from those in Japan, and important etiquette to remember. It also includes information about commonly used catering services and the typical costs of hosting a wedding, so please read to the end.

Regional and Religious Differences in Indonesian Weddings

In Japan, when a couple is non-religious, they are free to choose their wedding style regardless of religion or region. For example, it is not unusual for a non-Christian couple to hold a Christian-style wedding. While traditional customs may exist in certain regions, adherence to them is often at the discretion of the couple.

In contrast, most Indonesians practice a religion, and weddings are heavily influenced by both religion and local traditions. For instance, in Hindu ceremonies common in Bali, the bride is escorted from her home to the groom’s residence for the ceremony. Traditional practices include the groom purchasing a basket brought by the bride during the ceremony.

Due to the challenges of interfaith marriage in Indonesia, the wedding style usually follows the religious and regional traditions of the bride and groom. When attending a wedding in Indonesia, it is important to be aware that styles vary depending on religion and region.

Reference: tokopedia “Susunan Acara, Ritual, dan Prosesi Pernikahan Adat Bali”

For example, the three photographs below were all taken at weddings held at the same venue in Jakarta. Even just from the attire, the wide variety of styles is apparent.

Image Source: ikkwedding.id

Characteristics of Indonesian Weddings and Differences from Japanese Weddings

While Indonesian weddings differ by religion and region, this section focuses on weddings among Muslims living in Jakarta. Here are four key differences to take note of:

Marriage Contract Ceremony

In Japan, the marriage registration is usually submitted separately before or after the wedding ceremony. However, in Indonesia, the legal marriage registration is completed during the wedding ceremony. A religious leader oversees the signing of a marriage contract during the ceremony.

This contractual ceremony is called “akad nikah,” and it marks the official recognition of the marriage. While in Japan some couples choose not to hold a wedding, for Muslim Indonesians, the akad nikah is essential and must be conducted at the wedding.

The akad nikah usually takes place before the wedding reception and typically involves only close family and relatives. If you are a supervisor, colleague, or subordinate, you are more likely to be invited only to the reception. Nevertheless, it is helpful to understand the overall sequence of events.

Guests

In Japan, wedding guests are usually carefully selected, such as colleagues or close friends. Due to cost and logistical concerns, not everyone can be casually invited.

In contrast, Indonesian weddings are known for large guest lists. Even neighbors or distant relatives with weak connections to the couple are welcome to attend. It is not uncommon for over 1,000 guests to attend even non-celebrity weddings.

Moreover, it is customary to attend with your partner. Some couples feel proud when many people, including foreigners, attend their wedding. Therefore, feel free to invite your partner to join.

Open Attendance

Indonesian weddings generally allow guests to come and go freely. The main event is taking photos with the bride and groom; after that, many guests eat and leave.

While Japanese weddings usually specify start and end times, Indonesian ceremonies often have flexible schedules. Because weddings can last for several hours, there is no need to stay for the entire event.

Alcohol and Food

In Indonesia, where Muslims are the majority, alcohol is generally not served at public events, regardless of the host’s religion.

Buffet-style meals are common. While the bride and groom’s families may cook, it is increasingly popular to use hotel wedding packages or catering services. At Indonesian-style buffet parties, guests typically take a large plate and pile rice and side dishes on it, then eat while standing in an open area.

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Etiquette to Observe at Indonesian Weddings

If you are invited to an Indonesian wedding, here are key etiquette points to consider:

Monetary Gifts

In Japan, the typical monetary gift is JPY 30,000, depending on your relationship with the couple. In Indonesia, however, there is no fixed amount, and there are no strict rules.

A general guideline is IDR 100,000 to 500,000 (approx. USD 6–30), but guests are free to decide based on their relationship and level of goodwill.

There are no traditional gift envelopes in Indonesia, so prepare your own envelope. After writing your company name and name at the reception desk, place the envelope into a collection box. Writing your name on the envelope is optional.

Attire

If no dress code is specified, men should wear a batik shirt and women should wear a kebaya. These are traditional Indonesian formal attires also suitable for occasions other than weddings, so owning one is recommended.

There is no strict dress code as in Japanese weddings—ties and jackets are not required, and wearing white is acceptable. As long as your attire is not overly casual, you will not stand out. If you don’t have batik or kebaya, a formal shirt or dress will suffice.

Men wear batik shirts, and women typically wear long-sleeved Muslim dresses. If the attendee is not Muslim, short sleeves or knee-length dresses are acceptable. All outfits worn by women in the images are kebaya, which come in various styles and materials.

Image Source: INSPIRASI KEBAYA Instagram @fashion_kebaya.ku

Popular Catering Companies for Indonesian Weddings

While families may cook for weddings, it is not uncommon to use professional catering services known for their stylish presentation and authentic flavors. Below are three popular catering providers:

Al’s Catering

Operating in Jakarta and Bali, Al’s Catering offers modern, elegant catering for a wide range of events from corporate board meetings to glamorous fashion shows.

They also sell bento and à la carte items on Indonesia’s major e-commerce platform Tokopedia, making them accessible for everyday use.

Wedding menu options include Indonesian, Western, Oriental, Japanese, and Korean cuisines, with delivery to homes or wedding venues.

Reference: Al’s Catering

Medina Catering

Founded in 2010, Medina Catering serves both individuals and corporations. Their services include weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and boxed lunches, emphasizing high-quality ingredients and professional service.

They partner with many wedding venues in Jakarta and offer all-in-one packages including food, venue decoration, emcees, and sound systems. A 50-person wedding package costs IDR 11,999,000 (approx. USD 750) with free delivery.

Menu choices include Indonesian, other Asian, and Western cuisines.

Reference: Medina Catering

Alfabet Catering

Established in 1996, Alfabet Catering is a pioneer and leading company in Indonesia’s catering industry. They offer services for weddings, engagements, birthdays, corporate events, and more.

Their wedding catering features Indonesian buffet cuisine. The menu includes a variety of rice dishes such as Nasi Rawon (beef soup and rice), Nasi Bali (Balinese rice with assorted dishes), and Nasi Madura (Madura-style rice). Their quality is recognized even at weddings attended by government or military VIPs.

Reference: Alfabet Catering

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C2 (Participation in business meetings and purchasing goods): $230
C19 (After-sales service) / C20(Installation and repair of machinery): $300
D2 (Participation in business meetings and purchasing goods (1-year validity)): $380
E23/E24/E25 (Work VISA): $1,500

Cost of Holding a Wedding in Indonesia

Finally, here is an overview of the cost of a wedding in Indonesia based on a survey by Indonesian financial firm BFI Finance. This assumes use of a multipurpose hall or school venue and catering for 300 guests.

Note that the following figures are for reference only, as actual costs may vary based on venue scale and attire choices:

• Marriage registration at KUA: IDR 600,000 (approx. USD 38)
• Dowry: IDR 1,000,000 (approx. USD 63)
• Wedding rings: IDR 5,000,000 (approx. USD 312)
• Gift from groom to bride: IDR 3,000,000 (approx. USD 188)
• Venue preparation and decoration: IDR 8,000,000 (approx. USD 500)
• Catering service: IDR 12,000,000 (approx. USD 750)
• Attire and makeup: IDR 3,500,000 (approx. USD 219)
• Photography: IDR 3,000,000 (approx. USD 188)
• Invitations and souvenirs: IDR 2,000,000 (approx. USD 125)
• Entertainment (band, etc.): IDR 4,000,000 (approx. USD 250)
• Miscellaneous: IDR 2,000,000 (approx. USD 125)

Total: IDR 44,100,000 (approx. USD 2,770)

Reference: BFI FINANCE “Serba-Serbi Biaya Pernikahan Sederhana yang Perlu Disiapkan”

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The Fascination of Experiencing a Different Culture through Indonesian Weddings

Because of the differences in wedding styles, guest etiquette, gift-giving, and number of attendees between Japan and Indonesia, first-time attendees may find Indonesian weddings a bit perplexing. However, the opportunity to witness religious traditions and regional characteristics not found in Japan provides a fascinating cultural experience.

Additionally, the large gatherings at Indonesian weddings can lead to unexpected connections or professional encounters. If invited by a superior, colleague, or subordinate, don’t hesitate—just go with a celebratory spirit and enjoy the occasion.

For Companies Interested in Indonesian Wedding and Cultural Practices

As mentioned in this article, Indonesians live in accordance with their respective religions, particularly Islam. Indonesia, being a multi-ethnic country, also maintains cultural traditions passed down through generations, and infrastructure and income levels vary by region. Therefore, it is difficult to generalize Indonesian customs.

PT. TRICRUISE MARKETING INDONESIA offers online market research services tailored for companies seeking to enter the Indonesian market. By narrowing down respondents from our panel of 110,000 Indonesians based on gender, age, religion, and region, we efficiently gather “local voices.” If you are interested, please feel free to contact us.