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Salutations and more in Indonesian & Balinese

  • Writer: Akshata Karnad
    Akshata Karnad
  • Dec 24, 2023
  • 1 min read

The two main languages spoken in Bali, Indonesia, are Balinese and Indonesian.


Indonesian is the official language of Indonesia and is spoken throughout the country. It's a common language for communication, especially in business and tourism. Balinese however, is the native language of Bali.


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While most of the population manage to communicate in English, here are some phrases and words to help you get around Indonesia, read restaurant menu boards and other signs at public places.


Salutations and daily phrases


  1. Good Morning - Selamat Pagi

  2. Excuse Me - Permisi

  3. Thank you! - Terim kasih

  4. Yes - Ya

  5. No - Tidak

  6. I want - Saya Mau

  7. Take Care / Careful - Hati Hati


Reading Food Menus:


  1. Goreng - "Fried"

  2. Nasi - Rice

  3. Mie - Noodles

  4. Pisang - Banana

  5. Tempeh - Soya

  6. Tahu - Tofu

  7. Bakso - Meatballs

  8. Ikan - Fish

  9. Udang - Shrimp

  10. Gurita - Octopus

  11. Cumi-cumi - Squid

  12. Kepiting - Crab

  13. Sambal - Chilli based sauce/chutney


For example, "Nasi Goreng" means "Fried Rice". You get the drift :)


Signs and Directions


  1. Enter - Masuk

  2. Exit - Keluar

  3. Jalan (Jl) - Road

  4. Pintu - Door

  5. Jangan sentuh: Do not touch

  6. Putar balik: U-turn

  7. Stop: Berhenti

  8. Dilarang Masuk - No Entry


If you cant remember them all, dont bother. You'll learn the up if you stay in Indonesia long enough!

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