1. Before Eating:
- Before starting a meal, it's customary to say a prayer of gratitude ("doa") to express thankfulness for the food.
- Younger family members or guests should wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating.
2. Seating:
- If possible, sit cross-legged on a "lesehan" (traditional seating arrangement) on the floor for a meal. If chairs and a table are available, sit properly and maintain good posture.
3. Rice Etiquette:
- Rice is a staple in Indonesian cuisine, so it's essential to treat it respectfully.
- Only use your right hand to handle rice and food; the left hand is generally reserved for washing and personal hygiene.
- Take small portions of rice onto your plate rather than piling it high.
- If you use a spoon to eat rice, don't lick it; gently tap the spoon on the side of the plate to remove excess food.
4. Sharing and Hospitality:
- Indonesians value sharing food. If someone offers you a dish or snack, it's polite to accept even if you're full.
- Always offer food to your elders, guests, and others as a sign of respect and hospitality.
5. Passing Dishes:
- When passing dishes or condiments to others, use both hands as a gesture of respect.
6. Eating Style:
- Avoid chewing with your mouth open, and try to make as little noise as possible while eating.
- It's considered rude to talk while your mouth is full. Finish eating before speaking.
- Don't pick your teeth or use your fingers to remove stuck food from between your teeth; excuse yourself and do it discreetly.
7. Leftover Food:
- If there's any food left on your plate, it's considered polite to leave a small portion behind instead of finishing everything. This gesture expresses gratitude for the host's hospitality.
8. Expressing Gratitude:
- When you've finished eating, thank your host or those who served the meal. Saying "terima kasih" (thank you) or "alhamdulillah" (a Muslim expression of gratitude) is appropriate.
9. Washing Hands:
- Before and after eating, it's customary to wash your hands with soap and water.
10. Avoiding Taboos:
- Certain foods may have cultural or religious restrictions. For example, pork and pork-derived products are avoided by Muslims, while some Hindus may avoid beef and certain other meats.
Remember that while these manners are widely observed, variations can exist within different regions of Indonesia. It's always best to observe and adapt to the customs and traditions of your hosts or the local community you're visiting.
