The Essence of Upper Class Elegance: Insights from Rural Indonesia

Do you ever ponder over subtle distinctions that mark the upper class in rural regions, and how they maintain their status through outward appearances and social behaviors? Here are some fascinating insights into the social norms and cultural nuances that make one stand out as 'upper class' in Indonesia, particularly in the rural areas.

Signs of Upper Class Status in Rural Areas

One of the most obvious indicators of upper class status is how you present yourself. In the rural regions of Indonesia, such as the ndeso banget (very rural setting), there are specific cues that people look for:

The Look

From the quality of clothing to the cuts of fabric, every detail matters. The upper class in Indonesia, especially in regions like Banten, Central Java (Jawa Tengah), and South Sumatra (Sumatra Selatan), wear clothing that is well-ironed and subtly reflects conventional styles such as batik. Each region has its own distinct batik patterns, colors, and cuts that distinguish them. For women, the choice of attire, such as kebaya, also carries implications of social status.

Graceful Mannerisms

One cannot overlook the mannerisms of the upper class. Their walking and speaking styles exude elegance and refinement. In traditional regions like Java, especially in towns like Banjarmasin, Pekalongan, and Mataram, you can often hear a distinct way of speaking known as kromo or kromo inggil in Javanese, which is a formal and slightly elevated speech.

Social System

The social system in such areas is deeply rooted in traditional feudal practices, where those at the top of the hierarchy are accorded significant respect and recognition. This can be seen in the respect bestowed upon local leaders, such as kepala desa (village head) or regional educators like my late grandfather, Pak Mantri. He was not only respected for his educational role but also for his subtle demeanor and warmth, which made him frequently sought after for community events. Even today, people in rural areas still bow to these figures out of respect, reflecting the long-standing social norms and structures.

The Role of a Car in Upholding Social Status

Apart from appearance, the choice of vehicle also plays a significant role in marking one's status. In rural Indonesia, the Mitsubishi Pajero stands as a symbol of success. Known as the must-have car for every regent, it signifies authority and influence. When you see a Mitsubishi Pajero with an out-of-island license plate roaming the city streets, expect its owner to be "somebody" in their hometown. The fact that the car's owner discards rubbish out of the back window further solidifies their status, as it signals a certain level of authority and privilege that others must respect.

Conclusion

From the way people dress and walk to the social systems and traditions, the essence of upper class status in rural Indonesia is a blend of subtle yet significant markers. Whether it's the choice of high-quality batik or the formal mannerisms of speech, every detail contributes to the overall image of one who has achieved a certain level of social and economic prominence. Understanding these nuances can provide a richer appreciation of the diverse cultural landscape within rural Indonesia.

Keywords

Upper class in Indonesia, rural social norms, cultural nuances