Staying Connected with Loved Ones from Indonesia

Published on October 31, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

In a world where distances keep growing, maintaining strong connections with loved ones becomes essential, especially when living in a country as far away as Indonesia.

Between time differences, personal obligations, and the language barrier, the challenges may seem insurmountable. However, nowadays, technology offers innovative solutions to stay connected with those we love.

This article explores various methods and technological tools that not only enable communication but also strengthen long-distance relationships, thus transforming kilometers into opportunities for sharing and togetherness.

Whether you’re an expatriate, traveler, or simply curious about these modern means of communication, discover how Indonesia can become a place for enriching exchanges with your family and friends.

Best Internet Service Providers in Indonesia

Main Internet Service Providers in Indonesia

Indonesia has several internet service providers, including Telkomsel, Indosat Ooredoo, XL Axiata, and Smartfren. Each of these operators offers various services, ranging from fixed and mobile broadband to fiber optics.

Network Coverage

• Telkomsel is known for its exceptional network coverage, reaching up to 99% of Bali island, including mountainous and remote areas. It offers 4G/5G speeds in urban areas.
• Indosat Ooredoo and XL Axiata also offer good coverage, although less extensive than Telkomsel’s.
• Smartfren is the smallest operator but offers competitive packages.

Types of Services

Main services include:

• Fixed Broadband: available from most operators for stable home connections.
• Mobile Broadband: with 4G and 5G options for maximum mobility.
• Fiber Optics: offered by some operators for extremely fast speeds.

Prices and Packages

Here’s an overview of available prices and packages:

Operator	Package	Price
Telkomsel	25 GB for 15 days	150,000 IDR
	32 GB for 30 days	350,000 IDR
Indosat	29 GB for 30 days	250,000 IDR
XL Axiata	30 GB for 30 days	62,000 IDR
Smartfren	25 GB for 30 days	200,000 IDR

Customer Service Quality

Operators like Telkomsel and Indosat Ooredoo offer customer support in English, making interaction easier for tourists.

Technological Innovations

Indonesia is seeing growing adoption of 5G technology, significantly improving connectivity, especially in urban areas. eSIMs are also becoming increasingly popular for their flexibility and ease of use.

User Testimonials

Users generally appreciate Telkomsel’s reliability for video calls and streaming, while XL Axiata is often preferred for its value for money.

Recommendations

To choose the best provider, it’s essential to consider your specific needs:

• Video Calls with Loved Ones: Telkomsel is recommended for its coverage and reliability.
• Sending Large Files: Opt for a package with plenty of data, like those offered by Indosat Ooredoo or XL Axiata.
• Streaming: Telkomsel and Indosat Ooredoo are well-suited thanks to their 4G/5G speeds.

In summary, Telkomsel is ideal for reliability and coverage, while XL Axiata is more affordable for casual users.

Authorized Communication Tools for Staying in Touch

Authorized and Popular Communication Tools in Indonesia

Most Used Instant Messaging Platforms:

• WhatsApp: Dominant application, adopted by the majority of Indonesians for private and professional communications.
• Telegram: Very popular, especially for its groups and public channels. Telegram was temporarily blocked in Indonesia for security reasons, but access has now been restored and the application is widely available.
• LINE: Heavily used in Asian countries, including Indonesia, particularly for its social features (stickers, timeline, video calls).

Accessible Chat and Video Conferencing Applications:

• Zoom: Available without major restrictions, used for professional and educational meetings.
• Skype: Accessible in Indonesia, suitable for international calls and video conferences.
• Google Meet: Works effectively with Google accounts, widely used in education and business.

Comparison Table of Main Applications

Application	Instant Messaging	Voice/Video Calls	Groups/Channels	End-to-End Encryption	Availability Indonesia	Special Features
WhatsApp	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Very widespread
Telegram	Yes	Yes	Yes	Optional	Yes	Public groups
LINE	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Stickers, timeline
Zoom	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Conferences
Skype	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	International calls
Google Meet	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Google integrated

Local Legislation and Restrictions:

• Indonesian telecommunications law imposes increased content surveillance and sometimes requires services to cooperate with authorities for national security.
• Services may be temporarily blocked in case of security threats or non-compliance with legal requirements (e.g., Telegram in 2017).
• Use of strong cryptography is tolerated, but authorities may request access in certain cases.

Security and Privacy Protection Recommendations:

• Enable end-to-end encryption in applications that offer it, particularly Telegram (secret chats) and WhatsApp.
• Limit sharing personal information and check privacy settings.
• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
• Avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive communications.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tool:

• For personal and family discussions, WhatsApp is recommended for its simplicity and popularity.
• For public groups, communities, or anonymity, Telegram is preferable.
• For professional or educational conferences, Zoom and Google Meet offer a better experience.
• For more informal and social exchanges, LINE offers playful features suited to local culture.

Mobile Connection, Local SIM Cards, and Data Packages:

• It’s easy to purchase a local SIM card in shops or kiosks in Indonesia. This allows access to mobile data packages at competitive rates and optimizes connection quality.
• Main operators (Telkomsel, Indosat, XL Axiata) offer packages suited to messaging and video conferencing needs.
• For activating certain services (WhatsApp, Telegram…), an Indonesian number may be required. Temporary or virtual numbers are available for verification without needing a physical SIM card.

List of Best Practices for Staying in Touch Effectively:

• Use a local SIM card to ensure good network coverage and reduced costs.
• Secure your device and accounts with strong passwords.
• Keep applications updated to benefit from the latest security features.
• Regularly consult local recommendations regarding data protection and cybersecurity.

Tips for Maintaining Connections with Your Loved Ones from Indonesia

To maintain close relationships at a distance, there are several practical tips adapted to the Indonesian and international context.

Popular Instant Messaging and Video Conferencing Applications in Indonesia

• WhatsApp: Most used application in Indonesia (over 90% market share), ideal for messages, voice and video calls, as well as sharing photos and documents.
• Zoom: Perfect for organizing group meetings, family video calls, or remote game nights.
• Skype: Useful for international video calls and screen sharing, especially with loved ones less comfortable with newer applications.
• LINE and Telegram: Popular alternatives for certain groups, with group chat and file sharing functions.

Importance of Social Media for Remote Sharing

• Facebook: Allows creating private groups, sharing photo albums, posting news, and reacting to loved ones’ posts.
• Instagram: Ideal for sharing life moments through images or short videos, following loved ones’ updates, and exchanging via private messages.

Benefits of Scheduling Video Calls and Remote Activities

• Strengthen emotional bonds through regular video calls (weekly or monthly) for informal discussions or special events.
• Organize online game nights (quizzes, digital board games, virtual escape games) to create fun memories at a distance.
• Set up a shared calendar to plan virtual appointments in advance and involve the whole family.

Tips for Choosing an Internet Package Suitable for International Communication

• Prioritize packages offering good 4G/5G coverage and sufficient data quota for video conferencing.
• Compare offers including reduced-rate international calls or “roaming” options if you travel regularly.
• Check connection stability for data-intensive applications (Zoom, HD video calls).

Criterion	Recommendation
Network coverage	Opt for main operators (Telkomsel, Indosat, XL Axiata in Indonesia)
Included data	Minimum 20 GB/month for regular video use
International options	Check for international call or data options
Flexibility	Prefer no-contract packages or easily rechargeable ones

Suggestions for Showing Affection from a Distance

• Send small packages (local products, personalized souvenirs, treats) to surprise and delight.
• Mail handwritten letters or postcards, which provide a personal and tangible touch often greatly appreciated.
• Include small symbolic objects (printed photos, children’s drawings, small gifts) to reinforce the feeling of closeness.

Key Takeaways

• Mixing digital tools and concrete gestures (packages, letters) helps maintain the warmth of relationships, even thousands of kilometers apart.
• Regularity and diversity in exchanges are key to staying close despite the distance.