In Indonesia, the term philanthropy is a relatively new one. However, the concept of giving has existed for centuries. The people’s religious affiliations provide an atmosphere of philanthropy of which the Islam zakat is an example. Philanthropy is a deeply personal act in Indonesia in the form of money or food. It traditionally takes place within families and neighborhoods.
In 2000, a survey of a sample of Indonesians occupying social strata classes A, B and C and living in a number of major cities revealed a strong preference for giving to other individuals (i.e. those begging for alms, to a relative/friend/colleague in need, etc.). A very high proportion of the population surveyed also gave to religious organisations and voluntary organisations.
