In Indonesia, flower boards are a longstanding and deeply rooted tradition used to convey messages of sympathy, congratulations, and well-wishes. These large, colorful floral arrangements are a familiar sight at weddings, funerals, and grand openings of businesses. As an expat living in Indonesia, understanding this unique cultural practice can help you navigate social occasions with grace and respect. 

The Origin of Flower Board Tradition in Indonesia 

The practice of sending large flower boards, known locally as “karangan bunga,” is believed to have originated during the Dutch colonial era, when floral arrangements became popular for formal occasions. Over time, Indonesians embraced this custom, adapting it to their own culture. Today, these floral boards are used to communicate everything from expressions of condolences to congratulations on a business opening or wedding. 

The boards themselves are typically large—about 2×1 meters or bigger—and feature a mix of colorful flowers, fabric, and a personalized message. These messages are prominently displayed, offering a public show of support, sympathy, or celebration. This tradition is a way of honoring someone’s life milestones or paying respects, making the boards a highly visible and important part of Indonesian culture. 

What Expats Should Know: Sending the Right Flower Board and Types of Flower Boards and Their Uses 

If you’re an expat in Indonesia, participating in this tradition can help you connect with locals and show respect for important cultural moments. However, it’s essential to understand the nuances of this custom to ensure you’re sending the appropriate type of flower board. 

For Funerals: 

In times of mourning, flower boards are sent as a sign of condolence to grieving families. They typically feature messages of sympathy, offering prayers and emotional support. While the color scheme for funeral flower boards tends to be more subdued, with whites, greens, and soft colors, the sentiment is often deeply appreciated by the recipient family. 

If you’re sending a flower board for a funeral, make sure the message is respectful and somber. Use phrases like “Turut Berduka Cita” (Deepest Condolences) or “In Loving Memory” to express sympathy. Stick to more neutral or soft colors, as bright, festive colors may be seen as inappropriate for the occasion. 

For Weddings 

At weddings, flower boards serve as a public expression of congratulations. These bright, festive displays are often sent by family members, friends, or business associates of the couple. The vibrant colors and cheerful messages symbolize joy and well-wishes for the couple’s future together. They’re often displayed prominently at the entrance to the wedding venue. 

When congratulating a couple on their wedding, your flower board can be bright and cheerful. You might include a message like “Selamat Menempuh Hidup Baru” (Best Wishes for Your New Life Together) or simply “Congratulations.” The use of reds, pinks, and other bright colors is encouraged, as they symbolize happiness and prosperity. 

For Business Grand Openings 

When a new shop or business opens, it’s common to send a congratulatory flower board to wish the business success. These boards often line the street in front of the new business and feature bold colors and encouraging messages like “Selamat dan Sukses!” (Congratulations and Success!). They serve as a way to show support and build goodwill between business owners and the community. 

If you’re sending a flower board to celebrate a business opening, bold colors and enthusiastic messages are the way to go. Phrases like “Selamat dan Sukses” or “Congratulations on Your Grand Opening” are appropriate, and the flower board should reflect the excitement of the occasion. 

Tips for Expats: How to Send a Flower Board 

Choose a Reputable Florist

There are many florists in Indonesia who specialize in creating these elaborate flower boards. As an expat, it’s a good idea to ask a local friend or colleague for recommendations or to look up well-reviewed florists online. 

Recommendation vendors:

nidiraflorist.com
outerbloom.com

eloraflorist.com

Know the Cultural Etiquette 

source : millionbloom.com

Timing is important. For funerals, it’s customary to send a flower board immediately after hearing the news of the death. For weddings and business openings, it’s polite to have the board delivered on the day of the event, ideally in the morning so that it can be displayed throughout the day. 

Personalize Your Message

While there are standard phrases you can use, try to add a personal touch. If you’re close to the person or business, consider writing a message that reflects your relationship, while still maintaining the cultural formality. 

Don’t Overthink It

While it’s important to follow cultural norms, don’t be afraid to participate. Indonesians are generally warm and appreciative of gestures from those who are trying to engage with their culture, even if you’re new to the tradition. 

A Visit To Jakarta Flower Market 

If you prefer to personally choose the flowers you’d like to send to your friends or colleagues, we highly recommend a visit to this market.

source : jakarta-tourism.go.id

Tucked away in the heart of West Jakarta, Pasar Bunga Rawa Belong is a vibrant, lively flower market that comes to life before the sun even rises. Opening its doors as early as 4 a.m., the market is a haven for flower enthusiasts, florists, and everyday buyers alike. As the city sleeps, vendors carefully display thousands of vibrant blooms, creating a stunning display of colors and fragrances that fill the cool morning air. From classic roses and lilies to rare orchids and tropical plants, the selection seems endless, making it the go-to spot for those in search of the perfect floral arrangement.

The market’s early hours cater to both retail buyers and wholesale merchants, creating an atmosphere of lively negotiation and camaraderie. By mid-morning, the narrow aisles are teeming with activity, with customers carefully selecting flowers for weddings, celebrations, or simple home décor. The charm of Pasar Bunga Rawa Belong lies not only in the vast variety of flowers but also in the rich sense of community among the vendors and buyers. It’s a place where the beauty of nature meets the hustle of urban life, making it one of Jakarta’s most cherished hidden gems.

Conclusion 

Sending flower boards is a meaningful way to participate in Indonesian culture, whether you’re offering condolences, celebrating a wedding, or supporting a business opening. As an expat, understanding the significance and proper etiquette of this tradition can help you navigate social and professional relationships more smoothly. 

So, next time you’re invited to a big occasion in Indonesia, don’t hesitate to send a flower board—it’s a beautiful way to connect with the local community and honour the traditions of your new home.