When Culture Talks: A Comparison of Indonesian and Western Communication Styles

In today's globalized world, we often meet people from different cultural backgrounds. One interesting difference that often stands out is how people communicate. A short interview video featuring both an Indonesian and a foreign (Western) speaker gives us a clear example of how culture shapes communication style. This comparison highlights the contrast between high-context and low-context cultures.

From the way they use language, we can already see the gap. The Indonesian speaker, who represents a high-context culture, tends to speak less directly. Their answers rely more on shared understanding, hints, and implied meanings. This can lead to misunderstandings, especially if the listener doesn't know the full context. On the other hand, the Western speaker, who comes from a low-context culture, speaks in a straightforward and clear manner. Every sentence is direct, organized, and easy to follow making the conversation faster and more effective.

The difference becomes even more visible through behaviors. The Indonesian interviewees generally speak in a more roundabout way. They often give longer answers and don't always go straight to the point. Their facial expressions stay calm and steady throughout the talk, and they maintain polite eye contact with the interviewer. Their posture is semi-formal respectful but not too stiff.

In contrast, the Western interviewee shows more expressiveness in facial reactions. They answer questions directly, often with strong eye contact that shows confidence. Their posture is casual and relaxed, giving the impression of openness and comfort in communication.

Beyond words and gestures, values also come through clearly. The Western speaker values clarity, openness, and efficiency. They openly discuss things that might be uncomfortable, including safety or daily life challenges. Sentences like "It's horrible to walk," or "It's also dangerous," show how they prioritize personal safety and honesty, even in casual conversations.

Meanwhile, the Indonesian speaker shows strong cultural values like politeness, situational awareness, and maintaining harmony. They are careful in choosing their words, even if that means being less direct. For example, instead of saying something plainly, they might add details and context to make their point in a softer way. This style shows respect to the interviewer and helps maintain a warm social connection. Much of the message is delivered not just with words, but through tone, eye contact, and body language.

All in all, this comparison shows that communication is not just about speaking, it's also about understanding cultural habits and values. Whether it's the quiet depth of high-context speech or the quick clarity of low-context responses, both styles have something to teach us about how humans connect across cultures. And that's the beauty of intercultural understanding starts with listening not just to the words, but also to the meaning behind them.

Written by Arjuna Setya Wisnuwardhana, Pinkhan Venasha Detiecya & Amanda Apta Nurjannah Ardhiyanto.