Learn Indonesian in a Week: Your Practical Guide

Day 6: Shopping & The Art of Bargaining

We’ve reached our next destination! No trip to Indonesia is complete without returning with a suitcase full of “Batik” or handcrafted souvenirs. But before you pull out your wallet, there is a golden rule in traditional markets—the “Pasar”: Bargaining is part of the culture. Let me show you how to buy your memories wisely and at the best prices.

Essential Shopping Phrases (How to ask for the price?)

In large shopping malls, prices are fixed. However, in local street markets, these words are your “secret weapon”:

Indonesian Phrase	Pronunciation	English Meaning
Berapa harganya?	Bu-ra-pa har-ga-nya?	How much is it?
Mahal sekali!	Ma-hal su-ka-lee!	Too expensive!
Bisa kurang?	Bee-sa koo-rang?	Can you go lower? (Discount?)
Saya mau ini	Sa-ya ma-oo ee-nee	I want this
Hanya lihat-lihat	Han-ya lee-hat lee-hat	Just looking around

The Art of Haggling in the Archipelago

When a vendor quotes a price and you find it high, say with a smile: “Bisa kurang?”. Start by offering half the price or slightly less, then negotiate to find a middle ground. Remember that Indonesians are peaceful and friendly; keep a good spirit while bargaining. To them, haggling is more of a social interaction than a financial battle.

Colors & Sizes (Refining your choice)

Warna (War-na) = Color.
Merah (May-rah) = Red.
Biru (Bee-roo) = Blue.
Hitam (Hee-tam) = Black.
Besar / Kecil (Bu-sar / Kuh-cheel) = Big / Small.

Exercise: At the Traditional Market

You like a blue Batik shirt. You ask the price and the vendor says “200,000 Rupiah.” You want to tell him it’s expensive and ask for a discount. What do you say?

(Answer: Wah, mahal sekali! Bisa kurang?)

Practical Practice

You Did It!

By completing this article, you now possess the core tools to navigate daily life in Indonesia—from greetings to hotels, and from dining to bargaining at markets. Remember, language is a bridge to the heart. Using just a few words of “Bahasa” will open doors to friendships and unforgettable moments in this enchanting country.

Vocabulary Table (6):

Word	Pronunciation	Meaning
Murah	Moo-rah	Cheap
Toko	To-ko	Shop / Store
Banyak	Ban-yak	Many / A lot
Bagus	Ba-goos	Good / Excellent
Terima Kasih	Tu-ree-ma Ka-seeh	Thank you
Sama-sama	Sa-ma sa-ma	You’re welcome