Wedding Traditions in Indonesia

Practitioners of Islam are in the overwhelming majority in Indonesia, but the group of islands in fact includes many different ethnic groups, each of which brings their unique style of ceremony and celebration to the joining of a couple in matrimony. One of the most important parts of the Indonesian wedding is declaring one's religion; the government of the country does not recognize unions that are not made under the auspices of some religion. Islamic marriages are not required to be registered in the Civil Registry, although those between other religions are. Islamic marriages in Indonesia must be presided over by both a government official and a religious officiator. Customary Engagement Etiquette in Indonesia An Indonesian engagement could easily last for many years. During this time, ceremonial gift giving takes place between the bride and groom's families to strengthen their familiarity. The family of a young man will usually decide on a young woman they would prefer their son to marry. Their decision is made known to their son, who will tell his parents how he feels about the choice. Upon his acceptance, the young woman is asked if she has any strong feelings against the union as it has been proposed. If she does not, an intermediate is used to determine if a bride's parents will be receptive to the proposal; if an acceptance is likely, the interceder will propose a marriage to the family of the bride. The formal announcement of the marriage takes place at the Engagement Meeting, with the readings from the Quran and the cleansing ceremony taking place. ********** Sr. Ning from Indonesia and her husband, Philip is from England . They are a married couple from different countries and cultures. Alhamudulillah, by the power of Allah, they seemed destined to meet each other. Their wedding took place August 31, 2001 and the wedding party was held on 2 September, 2001 in Padang, Indonesia. A momentous day and a traditional wedding party with approxiamtely 300 guests. A committed couple united and in love.