Jakarta - Post Report Question and Answers
Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Take a dual sim phone, and get a local sim here ASAP because everything is app-based (taxi services, grocery services, e-money, etc.). - May 2023
You can get a SIM chip when you arrive. This is not difficult to do with an unlocked phone. You can pay monthly with a local bank account (most people do this) or with cash/credit card at most convenient stores. - Oct 2021
We used a local provider but had to learn how to use the machines to plus up our prepaid plans. Some people use their drivers. You can also buy pulsa off someone you know and have them transfer it to you. - Sep 2020
Dirt-cheap access. Bring your phone from home (make sure it's GSM unlocked) and get a pre-paid plan. We load small amounts per month, probably $15 USD for 2 GB data and calling. - Feb 2018
Definitely need one. Everything happens by texting. - Jan 2015
Network is good. Calls are reasonably priced. - Jan 2013
This is the country of cell phones and BlackBerries! They are readily available and cheap and the service is pretty good. I use an embassy-issued blackberry. - Jun 2012
They are easy and cheap to get here. For $100 you can get a basic model, local sim card and some minutes that you can reload easily for $10/2 months. - Jan 2012
There are various inexpensive pay-as-you-go options. Get a phone, pop in a SIM card with a local carrier, buy a scratch-off card, and you're set. - Jul 2011
Bring one in with you for each of your kids and have your staff buy the local SIM card and pre-pay. You can pick up a lovely phone in BKK for next to nothing. - Jul 2011
Local cell phone service works well with rechargeable SIM card. Phones are not cheap, but they're not expensive. - Dec 2010
Cell phones generally work well with the local providers. More expensive than UK. - Nov 2010
Telkomsel has the most reliable coverage. Get your thumbs ready for sms-happy Indonesians! - Jul 2010
Get one. Cell phones are cheap and plentiful. A second hand phone from any kiosk in the mall will do if you do not receive one through work. - Mar 2008
