Why should I learn bahasa?

Importance learn bahasa Indonesia

“Why should I learn bahasa?”

If you opened this article because you still thinking about “Why should I learn bahasa?” , then lemme tell you something >:)

Honesty, I think , there are way more than five. But I'll put five main reasons why Indonesian is a great language to learn \(^-^)/

First, IT'S FUN!

With only a basic level of bahasa, you can easily take yourself off the beaten track and find yourself motor biking across Java's mountains and volcanoes, partying in Jogyakarta or Bandung, chilling in Bali's rice paddies and beaches, diving some of the most beautiful spots in the world at Raja Ampat and the Banda islands, getting cultural in Sulawesi and Kalimantan, or exploring the local wildlife with the komodo dragons in Lombok and orangutans in Sumatra. 

Seriously, learning bahasa opens up a vast archipelago of some of the friendliest, most hospitable people and fun-loving people you will ever meet. You never regret that, I'm promise :P

Second, It’s Use the Same Alpahabet as English

Bahasa Indonesia is not as difficult to learn as many other foreign languages; for example, verbs aren't conjugated as in English and French.  Bahasa Indonesia also uses the same alphabet as English, making it much easier to learn when compared to other Asian languages where tonal differences and pictograph written languages are common.

Third, It’s Really NOT That Hard!

Who says bahasa is hard??? Who says??? >:O

Bahasa Indonesia is the MOST EASY language to learn!

 (yes of course, because I'm Indonesian. LOL)

For a beginner trying to learn a new language, it doesn’t get much more accessible than Indonesian. Bahasa Indonesia has an uncomplicated system of grammar and vocabulary and, as a result, it is not unusual for students to reach a basic conversation level within 1-2 months of intensive study. Most importantly for those interested in learning an Asian language, unlike Chinese or Japanese, Indonesian has no tones and uses the Roman alphabet.

Let's see the an Indonesian (Asep : A) and expats (Victoria : V), below :

A : "Hai!"                          (Hello)

V : "Hai!"                          (Hello)

A : "Lagi apa?"                 (What are you doing?)

V : "lagi ... nonton."         (I’m Watching) 

A : "Nonton apa?"            

V : "Nonton... film." 

A : "Rame gak?"              (Is it fun?)

V : "Rame."                      (yeah, fun.)

A : "Mau minum?"           ( wanna drink?)

V : "Mau."                        (yes)

A : "Kopi atau teh?"         (What do you want, a cup of coffee or tea?)

V : "Teh."                         (a cup of tea, please) 

A : "Oke. Sebentar ya."    (Ok. Wait a second) 

V : "Iya."                          (Ok.)

See? It's super easy right?

You just need to know about one or two words, and you can have a lovely conversation with Indonesian :D

Forth, It Might Just Make You a Better Person

Well, while  you learn about bahasa, not necessarily, but I think it will give you a means to access and understand a unique culture that is an eclectic mix of Eastern, Western and Islamic influences. Really, it's not a narcissism ( hopefully) but I see by myself how lovely Indonesian are. When someone who they didn't even know who are they, where are they come from, what is their religion, but when it's come to trouble, Indonesian always help each other. Sweet Indonesian :) 

I'm sure, your experiences in Indonesia will challenge you to think outside of your comfort zone and engage with unfamiliar values and practices. It will also allow you to learn more about yourself and your own culture by forcing you to reflect on your cultural pre-conceptions – for example, on time, on religion, and on politics – and how they differ to those in Indonesia.

Fifth, Language Is A Business Tool!

If you are thinking about doing business in Indonesia, I think you are making the right decision. As the fourth-largest population on earth, Indonesia is a giant of an economy. With its huge population – 240 million, where 30 – 50 million are middle class population – and its low labour costs, Indonesia is an attractive market for trade and investments. According to the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Foreign direct investment in Indonesia grew 20% last year (2011). Singapore, was the top foreign investor, followed by Japan and the United States, and then the Netherlands and South Korea.

You don’t need to speak Indonesian language fluently before you can do business in Indonesia. Of course the more you know the better. What is more important is how to show respect and good intention towards building a relationship even if it’s only through few words. This is about using the language as a business tool. Cultural awareness and language should be part of global business strategy. How you empower your brand and corporate image through culture will determine your position in the international market.

I think that five reasons enough to allure you to learn bahasa Indonesia .

Wanna more reason? Please meet me in person. LOL.

Anyway, see ya on another articles!

Dadaaaah~~~ (the way we say, bye!)