Schools, weddings and funerals—a glimpse of Indonesia’s many worlds

13/3/2025

Culture - Storytelling ■
The world doesn't always work the way we think it does—especially when it comes to student life, marriage and even death. Most travellers have probably figured that out by now. Student life, marriage and even death can be completely different in some places compared to what we're used back home. Indonesia is no exception and having been to many places in Indonesia, I can even say that there is countless diversity in the entire Indonesian archipelago. After spending some time in the city of Bima at Sumbawa island, I got a glimpse of real life overthere.

BY HANAN, 2 minutes read

From vibrant weddings to strict schools and sudden funerals, life in Bima keeps you on your toes. A few times I found myself swept into a wedding unlike anything I'd seen before. In Bima, weddings explode with colour and music. Almost the entire village is invited. If you ever get the chance to join such a wedding, you should definitely grab it. You won't regret it.

Another day, I got to visit a small basic school in the mountains. Here, children still have to truly listen to their teacher. When I saw a teacher pull a student's ear, I was surprised. But the kid? He barely flinched—it was just another school day. And schoolbooks? Almost nonexistent. Computers? Completely out of the question.

Just like weddings, funerals here follow deep traditions. When people die, they are buried immediately. Ever wondered what happens when there's no doctor to confirm death? And sometimes... well, let's just say not everyone is gone for good when they go underground. Best not to think about it too much. But I heared already the wildest stories about that. Out of respect for the bereaved, I didn’t take any photos. Photography is a very sensitive matter in these situations.

It would be an eye-opening experience for everyone to truly immerse themselves in the real culture of the places you visit. Experiencing this firsthand? It changes how you see the world. Next time you travel, don't just visit. Live it. And see how your own world shifts.

READ ALSO
Bima, an undervalued place in Indonesia