Cultural Recommendations from UNORC

Due to the number of new NGO staff in Aceh Barat and Nagan Raya, UNORC would like to share some important cultural advice for all newcomers. Much of this advice is based on lessons learned by individuals and organizations in Aceh Barat. Therefore, UNORC asks that you please take the following information seriously.

Dewi Elyana, UNORC

DO

Ask your organization to report your presence at the Meulaboh police station. Here you will be issued a Surat Tanda Melapor (SDM). Carry this letter with you at all times. If the police ask you for your SDM and you fail to produce it you may be fined Rp 5,000,000.

Always extend your visa permit at least two weeks prior its expiration date – delays are not uncommon.

When you move into a new house, inform the community leader in your neighborhood. This is a standard practice in Indonesia that does not just apply to expats, but to everyone.

Socialize with your immediate community and try to support their events. If your neighborhood is planning an event (e.g. Independence Day, Meugang, Idul Adha, etc.) and request your financial support, it’s better to provide a small amount of money than reject their proposal (Rp 20 – 50,000 is usually sufficient).

Wear appropriate clothes that will not attract the attention of the community. Women are not allowed to wear sleeveless shirts, pants or skirts above the knee or transparent clothes in public.

Drink your alcohol beverages inside your house.

If you intend to hold a social gathering in the evening keep it modest and maintain a low profile.

Don’t play your music loud enough for your neighbors to hear it.

DO NOT

Unmarried couples should not be alone in the same room after 10 p.m. If you have a girlfriend or boyfriend, please be very respectful and discreet in your neighborhood. This is especially important if you are an expat and your girlfriend or boyfriend is Indonesian. Your immediate community maintains the right, based on Syariah Law, to forcefully enter your house should there be suspicion about what is happening inside your house.

Don’t bring alcohol drinks to public areas, such as the beach.

Don’t wear a swimming suit or bikini at the beach. Your torso and shoulders should always be covered as well as your knees.

If you are female, avoid smoking in public areas (this is especially important for both national and local staff).

Women do not typically smoke in Aceh and if you smoke you may receive unwanted attention and damage your reputation.