Living in Indonesia
Introducing useful apps.
1. Messenger -> WhatsApp
Indonesia universally uses Meta's WhatsApp messenger.
In Indonesia, where telecommunications infrastructure has not developed well, messengers replace traditional communication methods, and WhatsApp is widely used not only for everyday conversation but also for company business.
2. Telecom Provider -> MyTelkomsel
Telkomsel, which I personally think is an unethical company in Indonesia, is ranked first in coverage and first in the number of subscribers, but it's a telecom provider that has nothing for me.
Through the app, I am charging children's prepaid internet packages. I can check the remaining data amount and use it to verify package duration, verify the validity period of communication fees, and roaming services. (Prepaid package products have a strange algorithm where only more expensive packages are forcefully exposed, so I strongly recommend using a postpaid plan!)
3. Transportation/Food Delivery/Digital Currency -> Gojek (Gopay)
It is an app of Indonesia's #1 company that succeeded by incorporating the Southeast Asian commercial motorcycle culture called Ojek as a platform.
It is an online taxi service that becomes our transportation in Jakarta, the traffic hell, and additional services such as food delivery and quick delivery services needed for everyday life are also very useful.
Gopay, created for Gojek payments, allows payment of various utility bills (these days, there is a growing trend of stores not accepting cash), and Gopay is widely used nationwide as digital currency.
4. Traffic/Navigation -> Waze
Waze, which is more accurate than Google Maps and provides real-time information about police locations you want to avoid in Indonesia, is an essential app for private drivers.
If you trust Google Maps and use the navigation function in Indonesia, cases frequently occur where it directs you to roads that cars cannot access... I recommend Waze in Indonesia.
5. Various Bank Apps -> BCA Mobile, Mandiri, CIMB ...
Many Korean banks have entered the market, but their app functions are far behind.
Be sure to use a local Indonesian bank (BCA, MANDIRI, etc.) as your main account and only use Korean banks for specific purposes like fixed deposits!
6. Shopping -> Tokopedia with everything, Shopee more specialized for women
Since the closure of AliExpress services in Indonesia a while ago, these shopping apps have become even more essential in our lives.
This online marketplace truly has everything imaginable, making it feel like there's nothing missing.
7. Grocery Shopping -> HappyFresh
Especially for heavy groceries like drinks, using HappyFresh for grocery shopping allows me to save time and avoid Jakarta's traffic nightmare.
8. Healthcare -> HaloDoc, my personal doctor
Have you ever waited at a hospital until your clothes were about to tear? For non-emergency situations, try HaloDoc.
Most doctors speak English well, so communication is easy, and you can get prescriptions quickly.
9. Climate Change and Earthquake Alerts -> BMKG Meteorological Agency
Use this app to check the weather and earthquake information before traveling within Indonesia.
It's great because it informs you about the possibility of aftershocks or tsunamis!
