Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Indonesia
CapitalJakarta
Population284.4 million
Area1,904,569 km² (735358 sq mi)
LanguagesIndonesian
CurrencyIndonesian rupiah (Rp)
TimezoneUTC+07:00, UTC+08:00, UTC+09:00
RegionAsia / South-Eastern Asia
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Largest Coral Reef Conservation Effort | Indonesia has launched a large-scale conservation effort to protect its coral reefs, which are home to over 3,000 species of fish and are a vital part of the country's ecosystem |
| Sports | Thomas Cup Badminton Championship | Indonesia has won the Thomas Cup, a prestigious international badminton tournament, a record 13 times, with players like Rudy Hartono and Liem Swie King contributing to the country's success |
| Arts | Wayang Puppetry | Indonesia's traditional Wayang Puppetry has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity, with intricate puppets and complex storylines that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage |
| Development | Reducing Poverty Rates | Indonesia has made significant progress in reducing poverty rates, with the percentage of people living below the poverty line decreasing from 24.2% in 1999 to 9.4% in 2020, according to the World Bank |
| Innovation | Startup Ecosystem | Indonesia has a thriving startup ecosystem, with companies like Go-Van and Tokopedia attracting significant investment and attention from international investors |
| Global Contributions | Peacekeeping Missions | Indonesia has contributed to several UN peacekeeping missions, including those in Liberia and Sudan, with over 3,000 Indonesian troops participating in these missions since 1956 |
| Environmental Conservation | Orangutan Conservation | Indonesia has implemented several initiatives to protect its orangutan population, including the establishment of the Gunung Leuser National Park, which provides a safe habitat for these endangered animals |
| Economic Development | Economic Growth | Indonesia has experienced rapid economic growth, with its GDP growing from $230 billion in 2000 to over $1 trillion in 2020, making it one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia |
Cultural Treasures
- The Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a magnificent example of Indonesian architecture and a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
- The Wayang Golek puppetry tradition, which originated in West Java, is a unique and intricate art form that tells stories from Indonesian mythology and history.
- The Gamelan music tradition, which originated in Java and Bali, is a distinctive and complex form of music that features a variety of percussion instruments.
- The Batik textile art form, which is popular in Indonesia, involves intricate patterns and designs created using wax and dye.
- The Kecak Fire Dance, which originated in Bali, is a traditional dance that tells the story of the Ramayana epic and features a chorus of men singing and dancing around a fire.
People & Global Impact
- Megawati Sukarnoputri, the first female president of Indonesia, played a significant role in promoting women's rights and democracy in the country.
- The Indonesian diaspora, which is spread across the world, has made significant contributions to various fields, including science, art, and literature, with notable figures like Andrea Hirata, a bestselling author.
- B.J. Habibie, a former president of Indonesia, was a prominent figure in the country's transition to democracy and played a key role in promoting education and innovation.
- The Pancasila philosophy, which is the foundation of Indonesian society, emphasizes the importance of unity, democracy, and social justice, and has influenced the country's development and global relationships.
What Visitors Love
- The beaches and islands of Indonesia, such as Bali and Lombok, are popular tourist destinations, known for their stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture.
- The food of Indonesia, which includes popular dishes like nasi goreng and gado-gado, is a fusion of different flavors and cuisines, and is often praised for its diversity and richness.
- The hospitality of the Indonesian people, who are known for their warm welcome and friendly nature, makes visitors feel at home and appreciated.
- The temples and historical sites, such as Prambanan and Borobudur, are a testament to Indonesia's rich cultural heritage and are a major draw for tourists and history buffs.
- The festivals and celebrations, such as the Galungan festival in Bali, are an integral part of Indonesian culture and offer a unique and exciting experience for visitors.
- The scenic landscapes, such as the Mount Bromo and Mount Rinjani volcanoes, offer breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, and are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hidden Gems
- The Tana Toraja region in Sulawesi is a unique and fascinating cultural destination, known for its traditional villages and elaborate funeral rituals.
- The Derawan Islands in East Kalimantan are a hidden gem for scuba diving and snorkeling, with an incredible array of marine life and coral reefs.
- The Kawah Putih crater lake in West Java is a stunning natural wonder, with a beautiful turquoise lake and surrounding landscape.
- The Sumba Island in East Nusa Tenggara is a lesser-known destination, with a unique culture and stunning natural beauty, including beautiful beaches and waterfalls.