Javanese in Netherlands

Introduction / History

The Javanese (Orang Jawa, "people of Java") originate from Central Java, Indonesia. In Sri Lanka, they are blended in with others who speak a Malay-based language. Therefore, they are considered "Malay" by many people. The Javanese have their own language called "Jawa.”

Today the Javanese live throughout Peninsular Malaysia in parts of Perak, Selangor, and Kedah. There are also isolated communities in coastal areas of Sabah. A smaller number have migrated to Saudi Arabia, Germany, the Netherlands, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia.

Indonesia was a Dutch colony until WWII. During colonial days it was common for Dutch met to have Indonesian wives and mistresses. The children were given special privileges such as education in the Netherlands. Many of them never returned to Indonesia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Javanese are a hospitable people, usually inviting visitors to share a meal with the family. Families are often quite large. Marriages are grand affairs that sometimes last up to three days. The Javanese often give of love gifts to the newlyweds after the wedding.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Javanese have a longstanding commitment to the Islamic religion, which is part of their culture. There are thousands of Javanese believers in Indonesia and elsewhere. Perhaps Christian Javanese will remember their brethren in other parts of the world.

What Are Their Needs?

The Javanese people need to accept the warm embrace of the only savior so they can enjoy spiritually meaningful lives.

Prayer Points

Pray they will be influenced by people who follow the Lord and want to see Christ exalted.

Pray for Javanese believers to take Christ to the Javanese in the other countries.

Pray for spiritual discernment and a hunger for true spirituality among the Javanese.

Pray for a movement to Christ that will affect the Javanese no matter where they live.

Text Source:   Joshua Project