Is English Widely Spoken By Locals In Indonesia?

English proficiency varies significantly across Indonesia, with higher levels in tourist areas and major cities but limited usage in rural regions. According to recent research, Indonesia ranks 79th out of 113 countries in English proficiency, placing it in the "low proficiency" category overall.

Where English is more commonly spoken:

• Tourist destinations like Bali, parts of Lombok, and Yogyakarta
• Hospitality industry including hotels, restaurants, and tour companies
• Major urban centers particularly Jakarta and Surabaya, which show the highest English proficiency in the country
• International businesses and educational institutions

Regional variations:

• Java has the highest overall English proficiency in Indonesia
• Bali has widespread English usage due to its tourism industry
• Papua shows the lowest English proficiency in the country

While approximately 10% of Indonesia's population speaks some English, you'll find that most people you interact with as a tourist will have basic to intermediate English skills. In Bali specifically, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

For smoother communication, learning a few basic Indonesian phrases can be helpful and is often appreciated by locals. Simple greetings like "Selamat pagi" (good morning) and "Terima kasih" (thank you) can enhance your interactions.

If you plan to venture off the beaten path to more remote areas, consider downloading a translation app or bringing a phrasebook, as English proficiency decreases significantly outside tourist zones and major cities.