Top 6 Asian Countries with Better Governance and Religious Harmony
Many Indonesians are exploring options abroad as concerns about governance, corruption, and religious freedom continue to rise. As someone who values both good governance and religious harmony, I've researched Asian countries that might offer better alternatives while remaining culturally accessible for Indonesians.
Singapore: Efficiency and Multiculturalism at Your Doorstep
Just a short flight from Jakarta, Singapore consistently ranks among the world's least corrupt nations (3rd on the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index). The city-state's efficient governance, rule of law, and zero-tolerance policy toward corruption create a refreshingly transparent environment for residents and businesses alike.
Singapore's approach to religious harmony is particularly noteworthy. The Presidential Council for Religious Harmony actively promotes understanding between different faiths, while Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, and followers of other religions coexist peacefully. Indonesian Muslims will find numerous mosques, halal certification systems, and recognition of Islamic holidays—plus a substantial Indonesian expatriate community already established.
Drawbacks to consider:
Singapore's extremely high cost of living can be challenging, with housing prices among the world's highest. The compact city-state can feel crowded, and its strict regulatory environment extends to personal freedoms—from chewing gum bans to severe penalties for minor offenses. Work culture tends toward long hours, and the competitive environment creates significant pressure. Permanent residency and citizenship have become increasingly difficult to obtain, with strict quotas in place.
Japan: Stability, Safety, and Respectful Coexistence
Japan offers an enticing combination of political stability, extremely low crime rates, and excellent public services. Ranking 16th on the Corruption Perceptions Index, Japan's governance systems prioritize accountability and transparency. While the language barrier presents challenges, many Indonesian professionals find opportunities in Japan's tech sector and universities.
Though predominantly culturally Shinto and Buddhist, Japan's constitutional religious freedom has created space for all faiths. Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka feature beautiful mosques, and the Japan Muslim Association provides support for Muslim residents. The respectful Japanese approach to religious differences means you'll rarely face discrimination for your faith practices.
Drawbacks to consider:
The language barrier in Japan is substantial, as English proficiency remains limited outside major tourist areas and international companies. The notoriously demanding work culture often includes extreme overtime (karoshi), while foreigners may experience social isolation due to the homogeneous society. Japan's aging population creates economic concerns, with high taxes needed to support social services. Finding halal food can be challenging in smaller cities, and housing often comes with high key money (non-refundable deposits) and space limitations.
South Korea: Innovation With Growing Religious Diversity
South Korea's remarkable transformation into an economic powerhouse comes with increasingly robust democratic institutions and anti-corruption efforts (31st on the CPI). The country's world-class infrastructure, healthcare system, and education opportunities attract many Southeast Asian professionals looking for better governance environments.
Religious diversity is expanding in Korea, with Buddhism, Christianity, and various other faiths coexisting. The Seoul Central Mosque serves as a hub for Muslims, and halal food availability has improved significantly in recent years. Korean universities actively recruit Indonesian students, creating pathways for longer-term residence.
Drawbacks to consider:
Korea's intensely competitive society creates significant pressure in both education and workplace environments, with some of the longest working hours in the developed world. The language barrier remains substantial, and social integration can be difficult for foreigners. Korea's homogeneous culture sometimes manifests as subtle discrimination against Southeast Asians. Weather extremes—from humid summers to freezing winters—can be challenging for those accustomed to Indonesia's tropical climate. The high population density in Seoul means housing is expensive and often limited in size.
Taiwan: Democratic Values and Constitutional Protections
Taiwan's vibrant democracy and commitment to civil liberties place it 25th on the Corruption Perceptions Index. The country's universal healthcare system, efficient public transportation, and strong educational institutions offer quality of life improvements for many expatriates from Southeast Asia.
Taiwan's constitution explicitly protects religious freedom, and its multicultural approach welcomes diverse faith practices. The Taipei Grand Mosque serves a growing Muslim community, while the government has increased halal certification efforts to accommodate Muslim residents and visitors. Taiwan's technological sector offers numerous opportunities for skilled Indonesian professionals.
Drawbacks to consider:
Taiwan's complex political situation with China creates uncertainty about long-term stability, with periodic tensions affecting international relations. The language barrier remains significant outside of technical fields and major cities. Taiwan experiences frequent typhoons and occasional earthquakes, while summer humidity can be overwhelming. Career advancement can hit a ceiling for foreigners who aren't fluent in Mandarin. Limited international recognition affects Taiwan's diplomatic status, potentially creating visa complications when traveling to certain countries after residing in Taiwan.
Brunei Darussalam: Islamic Values with Strong Governance
Brunei offers Indonesians a unique combination of Islamic governance with significantly better administrative efficiency (ranking 30th on the CPI compared to Indonesia's 110th). The small, oil-rich sultanate boasts impressive infrastructure, free education and healthcare, and zero income tax—creating a high standard of living for residents.
As a Muslim-majority nation implementing Sharia principles, Brunei provides Indonesian Muslims with a familiar religious environment where Islamic practices are not just accommodated but integrated into daily life. The country's magnificent mosques, widespread halal food availability, and respect for Islamic holidays create a seamless transition for Muslim Indonesians.
Brunei's relatively small population (under 500,000) means employment opportunities exist primarily in government, education, oil and gas sectors, and increasingly in Islamic finance. The cultural similarities, widespread use of Malay language, and proximity to Indonesia (just a short flight from Kalimantan) make Brunei an accessible option with minimal cultural adjustment required.
Drawbacks to consider:
Brunei's small size and population can feel limiting over time, with limited entertainment options and social circles. The economy remains heavily dependent on oil and gas, creating potential long-term sustainability concerns as global energy transitions occur. While the Islamic environment benefits Muslims, non-Muslims face restrictions on alcohol, nightlife, and certain social activities. Career growth opportunities outside government and energy sectors are limited, and the conservative social environment may feel restrictive for those accustomed to more liberal settings.
Malaysia: Cultural Familiarity with Better Governance Metrics
For those seeking minimal cultural adjustment, Malaysia offers significant governance improvements (57th on CPI versus Indonesia's 110th) while maintaining many cultural similarities. The shared Malay heritage, widespread use of Bahasa, and similar culinary traditions make Malaysia an easier transition for many Indonesians.
As a Muslim-majority country with constitutional protections for other faiths, Malaysia offers Indonesian Muslims a comfortable religious environment while still maintaining space for diverse beliefs. Major cities like Kuala Lumpur feature diverse communities where people of various faiths live harmoniously, despite occasional political tensions.
Drawbacks to consider:
Malaysia experiences periodic political instability and ethnic tensions that affect policy consistency. The bumiputera affirmative action policies favor ethnic Malays, potentially limiting opportunities for non-Malays in certain sectors. Environmental issues include seasonal haze from forest fires (including those from Indonesia). Religious conservatism has been increasing in some states, affecting social policies. While corruption metrics are better than Indonesia's, patronage politics and cronyism still exist in various forms. Some Malaysians maintain stereotypes about Indonesians primarily as domestic workers, potentially affecting social integration.
Making Your Decision
When considering relocation, assess your priorities: career opportunities, language barriers, cost of living, proximity to Indonesia, and specific religious accommodations. Each country offers unique advantages and challenges. Remember that building a new life abroad requires research, patience, and openness to new experiences.
While these nations offer stronger governance metrics and religious tolerance, no country is perfect. The decision to relocate is deeply personal and depends on your specific circumstances, values, and aspirations. Whatever you choose, maintaining connection to Indonesian culture and contributing positively to your new community will enrich your experience abroad.
Additional Considerations for Any Move
Before finalizing any relocation plans, research visa requirements thoroughly as they change frequently. Consider establishing connections with Indonesian expatriate communities in your target country through social media groups or cultural associations. These networks can provide invaluable guidance on practical matters like housing, banking, and healthcare navigation.
It's also wise to visit your potential new home country as a tourist first, ideally staying for several weeks to experience daily life beyond tourist attractions. Explore residential neighborhoods, grocery shopping, public transportation, and other everyday activities to better understand what long-term living would entail.
Finally, prepare for the emotional aspects of relocation. Homesickness is natural, and building a support system in your new country is essential. Maintain regular connections with family and friends in Indonesia while gradually establishing new relationships abroad. With proper preparation and realistic expectations, your transition can lead to rewarding personal and professional growth.