What Are Chinese Indonesians Really Called? The Answer Might Surprise You
Have you ever heard someone in Indonesia casually say, "She's Chindo" or "He's Tionghoa"? If you've ever been curious about what Chinese Indonesians are truly called — and how those labels differ in meaning and context — you're not alone. This question opens the door to a fascinating story of identity, culture, and language that stretches across generations.
And if you think the answer is as simple as Chinese Indonesian, think again. Let’s unravel this unique cultural identity — and why many of them can no longer speak a single word of Mandarin.
The Many Names of Chinese Indonesians
Chinese Indonesians are a significant ethnic minority in Indonesia. But what exactly are they called?
Tionghoa: The Formal Name
The term Tionghoa is the official and formal name for Chinese Indonesians. It is used in government documents, media, education, and formal settings. The word Tionghoa originates from the Hokkien pronunciation of “Zhonghua” (中华), which means "Chinese" or "of Chinese descent."
In modern Indonesia, Tionghoa is the respectful and widely accepted way to refer to ethnic Chinese Indonesians — especially after the fall of the New Order regime, which had previously suppressed Chinese culture.
Chindo: The Colloquial Slang
Enter Chindo, a blend of China and Indonesia. This term has become popular, especially among younger Indonesians and on social media platforms. While it's not officially recognized, it's widely understood in urban slang and online culture.
Chindo is more casual and often self-referential. Many young people who identify as Chinese Indonesians call themselves Chindo, especially those who may not have a strong connection to China or Chinese traditions anymore.
Interestingly, many Chindo Indonesians no longer speak Mandarin or even their ancestral dialects. For many, it’s just the face — the language and traditions may have faded away.
Cina: A Word with Controversy
It’s worth noting that the term Cina was historically used but is now considered offensive or derogatory in many contexts. It carries baggage from Indonesia’s turbulent history of discrimination and political conflict involving the Chinese community.
Today, using Cina to describe people is discouraged, and Tionghoa is preferred in official and polite conversation.
Why Many Chindos Don’t Speak Mandarin Anymore
One of the most intriguing aspects of Chinese Indonesian identity is the gradual loss of the Chinese language across generations.
Suppression and Assimilation
During the New Order era (1967–1998), the Indonesian government enforced a range of anti-Chinese policies, including banning Chinese language education, media, and public celebrations. As a result:
- Chinese schools were closed or converted
- Chinese newspapers and publications were banned
- Speaking Chinese in public was discouraged
To survive and assimilate, many Chinese Indonesian families stopped teaching Mandarin or their regional dialects (like Hokkien, Teochew, or Hakka) to their children.
Identity Shift in the Modern Era
Today, many younger Chindos:
- Speak only Indonesian or English
- Have Indonesian-sounding names
- Celebrate Indonesian holidays more than traditional Chinese ones
- May feel more Indonesian than Chinese
Some even report feeling a cultural gap with their own grandparents or relatives who still speak Chinese dialects. This shift in identity is one reason why the label Chindo feels more appropriate to many — it reflects a unique fusion, not a direct connection to China.
So, What Should You Call Them?
Understanding what Chinese Indonesians prefer to be called depends on context. Here’s a helpful guide:
In formal situations
Use Tionghoa — respectful, inclusive, and culturally sensitive.
In casual conversation (with friends or peers)
Chindo is generally acceptable, especially if the person identifies that way.
Avoid using
- Cina — often considered pejorative
- Any outdated colonial-era terms
Always follow the lead of how someone identifies themselves.
Beyond the Label: A Community with Rich Diversity
It’s important to recognize that Chinese Indonesians are not a monolithic group. Within the broader community, there are many differences in:
- Religion (from Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, to Islam)
- Language ability (some still speak Mandarin or dialects, many do not)
- Cultural practices (some follow traditional Chinese customs, others embrace purely Indonesian ones)
Some Chinese Indonesians actively celebrate Lunar New Year, visit temples, or maintain ancestral traditions. Others have fully integrated into Indonesian society and may no longer observe Chinese customs at all.
This diversity makes it even more crucial to use terminology that is thoughtful and accurate.
Why This Matters Today
As Indonesia continues to grow into a multicultural democracy, understanding ethnic identity — including the nuanced identity of Chinese Indonesians — becomes more important than ever. How we refer to others reflects not only our awareness but also our respect.
In recent years, efforts have been made to revive Chinese culture and language among the younger generation. Some Chindo youth now attend Mandarin classes or participate in cultural events to reconnect with their roots. Others proudly claim their blended identity — part Chinese, fully Indonesian.
Final Thoughts: The Future of the Term "Chindo"
Will “Chindo” one day become an official term, or will it remain a cultural nickname? Only time will tell.
What’s clear is that Chinese Indonesians — whether called Tionghoa, Chindo, or simply Indonesians — are a vital part of the nation's fabric. Their history, language, and evolving identity are stories worth telling.
And now you know — it’s not just a name, but a narrative.
If you’re interested in learning more about Indonesia’s diverse cultures and identities, visit ajakteman.com for insightful articles and local stories.