Is Indonesia Better Than Malaysia?

When comparing Indonesia and Malaysia, opinions often vary widely, reflecting individual experiences, cultural affinity, and life expectations. In this article, we delve into the unique strengths and opportunities that each country presents, ultimately questioning whether one country is necessarily 'better' than the other.

The Scale of Indonesia vs Malaysia

Indonesia and Malaysia have distinct sizes and manage territories on different scales. Indonesia, with a population of over 300 million, spans over 17,000 islands spread over a distance of 2,000 to 3,000 kilometers. In contrast, Malaysia is a peninsula along with a few small islands, which makes it easier to manage in terms of governance and resources.

Comparing the Two Nations

The idea that one country is inherently better than another can be subjective, based on personal values and experiences. Take food, for example, some prefer it subtle, while others prefer something that evokes strong reactions. Similarly, individuals can feel more at ease in environments that align with their cultural and personal preferences.

For a Malaysian, both countries share many commonalities in language, cuisine, and culture, which means that there are both aspects one appreciates in Indonesia and aspects that one does not. Therefore, the notion that one is better than the other is best left to individual preference.

Indonesia: A Detailed Analysis

Indonesia has evolved significantly and has numerous advantages over Malaysia:

Ethical Governance: Indonesia is known for having a lower scale of corruption compared to Malaysia. This is evident in the handling of major corruption cases like 1MDB. Resilient and Enterprise-Friendly: Indonesians are depicted as tougher, more enterprising, and hard-working. This trait has contributed to a more favorable environment for foreign direct investment. Attractive Tourism: With better tourism prospects, Indonesia has seen a significant flow of foreign direct investment (FDI). Tourism has become a major driver of its economy. Strategic Government: Indonesia's government and political parties are not race-based, unlike Malaysia, which has a history of religious and racial discrimination. Natural Resources: Indonesia boasts vast resources that are yet to be fully explored, making it an attractive location for various industries. Global Cultural Diversity: The country’s rich cultural backdrop is evident in its diversity of food, arts, and crafts. This can be seen on platforms like YouTube.

Challenges and Controversies

While Indonesia has improved in many areas, there are still challenges to address. The treatment of workers and itinerant laborers in Indonesia, particularly the way they are treated by Malaysian employers and society, is a topic of concern. The same goes for the treatment of maids, where Indonesia's cultural acceptance compared to Malaysia's stricter religious requirements can be a highlight.

Indonesians have admired the possibility of having Malay maids due to the less stringent religious practices and cultural norms. Indonesia's government and society have been more accepting of different religions and beliefs, fostering a more diverse and inclusive environment.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to live in Indonesia or Malaysia should be based on personal preference, values, and cultural fit. While Indonesia offers a range of advantages, including a higher standard of investment, better governance, and a more diverse cultural landscape, Malaysia continues to have its strengths, such as its stable economy and strategic location.

As a Malaysian, my observation is that Indonesia is transforming and evolving rapidly. While there are challenges, the country's potential is immense. If you are a foreign company, investing in Indonesia can open up a vast market with a highly skilled workforce and a dynamic business environment.

The importance of personal experience and involvement in a country cannot be overstated. The world views and opinions on these countries are often influenced by personal interactions and observations. Understanding both countries can provide a more nuanced view of their strengths and weaknesses.