Editor’s Note:
This article is based on original research by anthropologist Meike Fechter, whose PhD research explored how expatriates in Jakarta used the internet to stay connected with family, friends, and professional networks in the late 1990s. While technology has changed dramatically since then, many of the emotional challenges of living overseas remain the same. This updated version reflects how today’s expatriates use modern technology to build connections and thrive while living in Indonesia.
Technology: An Expat’s Lifeline
Moving to another country is exciting, but it can also be one of life’s biggest emotional challenges. Even experienced expatriates can experience loneliness, homesickness, and the feeling of being disconnected from family, friends, and professional networks.
Fortunately, staying connected has never been easier.
Where previous generations of expatriates relied on expensive international phone calls, letters, and early email services, today’s newcomers have an entire digital ecosystem at their fingertips. From WhatsApp and Zoom to online banking, translation apps and social media, technology helps transform Indonesia from an unfamiliar destination into a place that quickly begins to feel like home.
Technology doesn’t replace face-to-face friendships or cultural immersion—but it can make the transition significantly easier.
Staying Connected with Family and Friends
For many expatriates, maintaining close relationships back home is essential for emotional wellbeing.
Video calls allow grandparents to watch grandchildren grow up. Family WhatsApp groups keep everyone informed about everyday life, while shared photo albums help loved ones feel involved despite the distance.
Rather than waiting days—or even weeks—for news, families can now communicate instantly.
Many expatriates say that regular contact helps reduce homesickness during the first few months of an overseas assignment. Simply knowing that family and friends are only a message or video call away provides reassurance during the adjustment process.
At the same time, it is important to strike a healthy balance. Spending every evening virtually “back home” can slow the process of building a new life in Indonesia. Technology should support your transition—not prevent it.
Building a New Community
One of the biggest challenges for newcomers is rebuilding their social network.
Fortunately, technology makes this much easier than it once was.
New arrivals often find local communities through:
- Facebook and expatriate groups
- WhatsApp neighbourhood chats
- Community associations
- International schools
- Sports clubs
- Professional networking groups
- Volunteer organisations
These online communities provide practical advice, recommend trusted doctors and contractors, organise social activities, and help newcomers answer the countless questions that arise during their first few months in Indonesia.
Many lifelong friendships begin with a simple online introduction.
Working Successfully Across Borders
Technology has also transformed how expatriates work.
Today’s executives regularly participate in global meetings through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Google Meet while managing staff across multiple countries.
Cloud-based systems allow employees to collaborate seamlessly with colleagues around the world, while LinkedIn helps professionals maintain international business relationships throughout an overseas assignment.
Many accompanying partners are also able to continue working remotely, operate their own businesses, or pursue freelance careers from Indonesia—something that was rarely possible just two decades ago.
Everyday Life Is Easier Than Ever
Technology isn’t just about communication. It has become an essential part of daily life.
Most expatriates quickly come to rely on apps for:
- Ordering transport through Grab or Gojek
- Food delivery
- Mobile banking and digital payments
- Translating Bahasa Indonesia
- Navigation with Google Maps
- Booking flights and travel
- Finding restaurants and shopping centres
- Scheduling medical appointments
- Managing utilities and deliveries
These digital tools reduce much of the stress associated with settling into a new country and help newcomers become independent more quickly.
Supporting Accompanying Partners
Research has long shown that accompanying partners often experience the greatest adjustment challenges during an international assignment.
While the working spouse immediately enters a professional environment, the accompanying partner may suddenly find themselves without their previous career, social circle, or daily routine.
Today’s technology provides many ways to remain engaged.
Accompanying partners can:
- Join local community groups
- Continue online education
- Work remotely if employment arrangements allow
- Volunteer with local organisations
- Attend virtual interest groups
- Stay connected with friends and family back home
Although technology cannot eliminate loneliness, it can significantly reduce feelings of isolation while helping newcomers build meaningful local connections.
AI: A New Tool for Living Overseas
One of the biggest changes since the original research was conducted is the emergence of artificial intelligence.
Many expatriates now use AI tools to:
- Explain Indonesian cultural customs
- Translate conversations more naturally
- Draft professional emails
- Understand government procedures
- Prepare for meetings
- Research schools and healthcare
- Learn Bahasa Indonesia
- Find travel ideas and local recommendations
Used wisely, AI can become another valuable resource that helps expatriates adapt more confidently to life in Indonesia.
Technology Cannot Replace Real Experiences
While technology makes life overseas much easier, it should complement—not replace—real experiences.
The expatriates who adapt most successfully are usually those who combine digital convenience with genuine local engagement.
Attend neighbourhood events.
Learn some Bahasa Indonesia.
Accept invitations from colleagues.
Travel beyond Jakarta.
Support local businesses.
The more you participate in everyday Indonesian life, the richer your experience will become.
The Human Need to Belong Hasn’t Changed
When Meike Fechter conducted her original research in Jakarta during the late 1990s, expatriates described the internet as their “lifeline.”
Today, the technology has evolved beyond recognition, but the underlying need remains exactly the same.
People relocating overseas still want to feel connected.
They still want to maintain relationships with loved ones.
They still seek friendships, professional networks, and a sense of belonging.
Technology simply provides more ways than ever before to achieve those goals.
For today’s expatriates, it has become an indispensable companion—helping transform a foreign country into a place that truly feels like home.
About the Original Research
This article is based on the pioneering research of anthropologist Meike Fechter, whose work explored the experiences of expatriates living in Jakarta during the early years of widespread internet use. Her research highlighted the important role technology played in maintaining social relationships during international assignments. While communication tools have evolved dramatically, her central insight—that staying connected is vital for successful expatriate adjustment—remains as relevant today as ever.
