Introduction to Reference Letters in Indonesia
A reference letter, or surat referensi in Indonesian, is a crucial document used to vouch for an individual’s personal or professional qualities. In Indonesia, these letters are commonly requested for employment, academic admissions, and business partnerships. A well-crafted reference letter can significantly enhance a person’s credibility and chances of success.
Personal reference letters in Indonesia often emphasize the individual’s moral character, reliability, and trustworthiness. They are typically written by respected community members, such as teachers, employers, or religious leaders. This guide provides 25 sample reference letters that demonstrate the proper format and tone for personal references in Indonesia.
1. Sample Reference Letter for Employment in Indonesia
PT. Maju Bersama
Jl. Raya No. 123
Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta, 10 Oktober 2023
Yth. HR Manager,
PT. Sukses Bersama,
Jl. Sudirman No. 456,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Andi Setiawan, who has been an outstanding employee under my supervision for the past five years. During his tenure at PT. Maju Bersama, Andi consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in his role as a marketing coordinator.
Key qualities that make Andi an exceptional candidate include:
- Exceptional leadership skills
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication skills
I have no doubt that Andi will bring the same level of commitment and excellence to your organization. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Rina Widyastuti
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
2. Personal Reference Letter for Academic Admission
SMA Negeri 1 Yogyakarta
Jl. Kaliurang No. 789
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Yogyakarta, 15 November 2023
Yth. Admission Committee,
University of Indonesia,
Jl. Universitas No. 123,
Depok, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Miss. Lestari Putri, a former student of SMA Negeri 1 Yogyakarta, for admission to your prestigious university. During her time at our school, Lestari consistently demonstrated academic excellence and exceptional personal qualities.
Some of her notable achievements include:
- Top 3 in her graduating class
- Active participation in student organizations
- Volunteer work in local communities
Lestari is a highly motivated and disciplined individual who will undoubtedly excel in your academic programs. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0274) 1234 567 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Budi Hartono, S.Pd.
Principal
SMA Negeri 1 Yogyakarta
3. Reference Letter for Business Partnership in Indonesia
CV. Berkah Jaya
Jl. Puri No. 456
Bekasi, Indonesia
Bekasi, 20 Desember 2023
Yth. Business Development Manager,
PT. Mega Karya,
Jl. Raya No. 789,
Bekasi, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend CV. Berkah Jaya as a trusted and reliable business partner. Over the past three years, we have collaborated on multiple projects, and I can confidently attest to their professionalism and integrity.
Key strengths of CV. Berkah Jaya include:
- Timely delivery of high-quality products
- Excellent customer service
- Strong commitment to ethical business practices
We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with CV. Berkah Jaya and highly recommend them to your esteemed company. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further inquiries.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Adi Wibowo
Owner
CV. Berkah Jaya
4. Personal Reference Letter for Visa Application
Jl. Kemang No. 321
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 5 Januari 2024
Yth. Visa Officer,
Embassy of Australia,
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said No. 789,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to provide a personal reference for Mr. Budi Santoso, who has applied for a tourist visa to Australia. I have known Budi for over 10 years, both as a neighbor and a close family friend.
During this time, I have observed the following qualities in Budi:
- High moral character
- Financial stability
- Strong family ties in Indonesia
Budi is a responsible and trustworthy individual who has always conducted himself with integrity. I am confident that he will comply with the terms of his visa and return to Indonesia upon completion of his visit.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0812) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Sri Wahyuni
Housewife
5. Reference Letter for Rental Application
Jl. Bintaro No. 654
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 10 Februari 2024
Yth. Property Manager,
PT. Nusindo Properti,
Jl. Fatmawati No. 321,
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Rudi Hartono as a tenant for your property at Jl. Bintaro No. 654. I have known Rudi for five years as a colleague at PT. Maju Bersama.
Key qualities that make Rudi an ideal tenant include:
- Timely payment of rent
- Good maintenance of property
- Responsible and reliable behavior
Rudi is a trustworthy individual who takes good care of the properties he rents. I am confident that he will be a responsible tenant for your property. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Lita Sari
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
6. Personal Reference Letter for Scholarship Application
SMA Negeri 2 Surabaya
Jl. Raya No. 987
Surabaya, Indonesia
Surabaya, 15 Maret 2024
Yth. Scholarship Committee,
University of Indonesia,
Jl. Universitas No. 123,
Depok, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Miss. Anisa Putri, a former student of SMA Negeri 2 Surabaya, for the scholarship program at your prestigious university. During her time at our school, Anisa consistently demonstrated academic excellence and exceptional personal qualities.
Some of her notable achievements include:
- Top 1 in her graduating class
- Active participation in student organizations
- Volunteer work in local communities
Anisa is a highly motivated and disciplined individual who will undoubtedly excel in your academic programs. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (031) 1234 567 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Arief Budiman, S.Pd.
Principal
SMA Negeri 2 Surabaya
7. Reference Letter for Business Loan Application
CV. Mandiri Jaya
Jl. Puri No. 321
Bekasi, Indonesia
Bekasi, 20 April 2024
Yth. Loan Officer,
Bank Mandiri,
Jl. Raya No. 456,
Bekasi, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend CV. Mandiri Jaya for a business loan. As the owner of CV. Mandiri Jaya, I have personally overseen the growth and development of the company over the past seven years.
Key strengths of CV. Mandiri Jaya include:
- Strong financial stability
- Good credit history
- Clear business expansion plans
We have consistently met our financial obligations and are committed to using the loan to expand our operations and increase our contribution to the local economy. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Adi Wibowo
Owner
CV. Mandiri Jaya
8. Personal Reference Letter for Child Adoption
Jl. Kemang No. 654
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 5 Mei 2024
Yth. Adoption Committee,
Yayasan Kita Bersama,
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said No. 321,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to provide a personal reference for Mr. and Mrs. Budi Santoso, who are applying to adopt a child. I have known this couple for over 10 years, both as neighbors and close family friends.
During this time, I have observed the following qualities in Mr. and Mrs. Santoso:
- Strong moral character
- Loving and stable family environment
- Commitment to the well-being of children
Mr. and Mrs. Santoso are responsible and caring individuals who will provide a loving home for their adopted child. I am confident that they will raise the child with the utmost care and dedication. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0812) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Sri Wahyuni
Housewife
9. Reference Letter for Membership in Professional Organization
PT. Maju Bersama
Jl. Raya No. 123
Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta, 10 Juni 2024
Yth. Membership Committee,
Indonesian Chamber of Commerce,
Jl. Sudirman No. 456,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Andi Setiawan for membership in the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce. As his supervisor at PT. Maju Bersama, I have had the pleasure of working with Andi for the past five years.
Key qualities that make Andi an ideal candidate for membership include:
- Strong leadership skills
- Commitment to professional development
- Active participation in industry events
Andi is a dedicated professional who will undoubtedly contribute positively to your organization. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Rina Widyastuti
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
10. Personal Reference Letter for Volunteer Work
Jl. Bintaro No. 987
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 15 Juli 2024
Yth. Volunteer Coordinator,
Yayasan Peduli Anak,
Jl. Fatmawati No. 654,
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Miss. Lestari Putri for volunteer work at your organization. I have known Lestari for five years as a colleague at PT. Maju Bersama.
During this time, I have observed the following qualities in Lestari:
- Strong commitment to social causes
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Reliability and dedication
Lestari is a compassionate and motivated individual who will undoubtedly make a positive contribution to your volunteer programs. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Lita Sari
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
11. Reference Letter for Employment in Indonesia (2)
PT. Sukses Bersama
Jl. Sudirman No. 456
Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta, 20 Agustus 2024
Yth. HR Manager,
PT. Maju Bersama,
Jl. Raya No. 123,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Andi Setiawan, who has been an outstanding employee under my supervision for the past five years. During his tenure at PT. Sukses Bersama, Andi consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in his role as a marketing coordinator.
Key qualities that make Andi an exceptional candidate include:
- Exceptional leadership skills
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication skills
I have no doubt that Andi will bring the same level of commitment and excellence to your organization. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Rina Widyastuti
Human Resources Manager
PT. Sukses Bersama
12. Personal Reference Letter for Academic Admission (2)
SMA Negeri 3 Bandung
Jl. Kaliurang No. 321
Bandung, Indonesia
Bandung, 10 September 2024
Yth. Admission Committee,
University of Indonesia,
Jl. Universitas No. 123,
Depok, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Miss. Lestari Putri, a former student of SMA Negeri 3 Bandung, for admission to your prestigious university. During her time at our school, Lestari consistently demonstrated academic excellence and exceptional personal qualities.
Some of her notable achievements include:
- Top 2 in her graduating class
- Active participation in student organizations
- Volunteer work in local communities
Lestari is a highly motivated and disciplined individual who will undoubtedly excel in your academic programs. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (022) 1234 567 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Budi Hartono, S.Pd.
Principal
SMA Negeri 3 Bandung
13. Reference Letter for Business Partnership (2)
CV. Berkah Jaya
Jl. Puri No. 654
Bekasi, Indonesia
Bekasi, 15 Oktober 2024
Yth. Business Development Manager,
PT. Mega Karya,
Jl. Raya No. 789,
Bekasi, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend CV. Berkah Jaya as a trusted and reliable business partner. Over the past three years, we have collaborated on multiple projects, and I can confidently attest to their professionalism and integrity.
Key strengths of CV. Berkah Jaya include:
- Timely delivery of high-quality products
- Excellent customer service
- Strong commitment to ethical business practices
We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with CV. Berkah Jaya and highly recommend them to your esteemed company. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further inquiries.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Adi Wibowo
Owner
CV. Berkah Jaya
14. Personal Reference Letter for Visa Application (2)
Jl. Kemang No. 321
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 20 November 2024
Yth. Visa Officer,
Embassy of Australia,
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said No. 789,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to provide a personal reference for Mr. Budi Santoso, who has applied for a tourist visa to Australia. I have known Budi for over 10 years, both as a neighbor and a close family friend.
During this time, I have observed the following qualities in Budi:
- High moral character
- Financial stability
- Strong family ties in Indonesia
Budi is a responsible and trustworthy individual who has always conducted himself with integrity. I am confident that he will comply with the terms of his visa and return to Indonesia upon completion of his visit.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0812) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Sri Wahyuni
Housewife
15. Reference Letter for Rental Application (2)
Jl. Bintaro No. 987
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 10 Desember 2024
Yth. Property Manager,
PT. Nusindo Properti,
Jl. Fatmawati No. 321,
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Rudi Hartono as a tenant for your property at Jl. Bintaro No. 987. I have known Rudi for five years as a colleague at PT. Maju Bersama.
Key qualities that make Rudi an ideal tenant include:
- Timely payment of rent
- Good maintenance of property
- Responsible and reliable behavior
Rudi is a trustworthy individual who takes good care of the properties he rents. I am confident that he will be a responsible tenant for your property. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Lita Sari
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
16. Personal Reference Letter for Scholarship Application (2)
SMA Negeri 4 Medan
Jl. Raya No. 654
Medan, Indonesia
Medan, 15 Januari 2025
Yth. Scholarship Committee,
University of Indonesia,
Jl. Universitas No. 123,
Depok, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Miss. Anisa Putri, a former student of SMA Negeri 4 Medan, for the scholarship program at your prestigious university. During her time at our school, Anisa consistently demonstrated academic excellence and exceptional personal qualities.
Some of her notable achievements include:
- Top 1 in her graduating class
- Active participation in student organizations
- Volunteer work in local communities
Anisa is a highly motivated and disciplined individual who will undoubtedly excel in your academic programs. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (061) 1234 567 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Arief Budiman, S.Pd.
Principal
SMA Negeri 4 Medan
17. Reference Letter for Business Loan Application (2)
CV. Mandiri Jaya
Jl. Puri No. 987
Bekasi, Indonesia
Bekasi, 20 Februari 2025
Yth. Loan Officer,
Bank Mandiri,
Jl. Raya No. 456,
Bekasi, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend CV. Mandiri Jaya for a business loan. As the owner of CV. Mandiri Jaya, I have personally overseen the growth and development of the company over the past seven years.
Key strengths of CV. Mandiri Jaya include:
- Strong financial stability
- Good credit history
- Clear business expansion plans
We have consistently met our financial obligations and are committed to using the loan to expand our operations and increase our contribution to the local economy. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Adi Wibowo
Owner
CV. Mandiri Jaya
18. Personal Reference Letter for Child Adoption (2)
Jl. Kemang No. 654
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 5 Maret 2025
Yth. Adoption Committee,
Yayasan Kita Bersama,
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said No. 321,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to provide a personal reference for Mr. and Mrs. Budi Santoso, who are applying to adopt a child. I have known this couple for over 10 years, both as neighbors and close family friends.
During this time, I have observed the following qualities in Mr. and Mrs. Santoso:
- Strong moral character
- Loving and stable family environment
- Commitment to the well-being of children
Mr. and Mrs. Santoso are responsible and caring individuals who will provide a loving home for their adopted child. I am confident that they will raise the child with the utmost care and dedication. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0812) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Sri Wahyuni
Housewife
19. Reference Letter for Membership in Professional Organization (2)
PT. Maju Bersama
Jl. Raya No. 123
Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta, 10 April 2025
Yth. Membership Committee,
Indonesian Chamber of Commerce,
Jl. Sudirman No. 456,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Andi Setiawan for membership in the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce. As his supervisor at PT. Maju Bersama, I have had the pleasure of working with Andi for the past five years.
Key qualities that make Andi an ideal candidate for membership include:
- Strong leadership skills
- Commitment to professional development
- Active participation in industry events
Andi is a dedicated professional who will undoubtedly contribute positively to your organization. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Rina Widyastuti
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
20. Personal Reference Letter for Volunteer Work (2)
Jl. Bintaro No. 321
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 15 Mei 2025
Yth. Volunteer Coordinator,
Yayasan Peduli Anak,
Jl. Fatmawati No. 987,
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Miss. Lestari Putri for volunteer work at your organization. I have known Lestari for five years as a colleague at PT. Maju Bersama.
During this time, I have observed the following qualities in Lestari:
- Strong commitment to social causes
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Reliability and dedication
Lestari is a compassionate and motivated individual who will undoubtedly make a positive contribution to your volunteer programs. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Lita Sari
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
21. Reference Letter for Employment in Indonesia (3)
PT. Sukses Bersama
Jl. Sudirman No. 456
Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta, 20 Juni 2025
Yth. HR Manager,
PT. Maju Bersama,
Jl. Raya No. 123,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Andi Setiawan, who has been an outstanding employee under my supervision for the past five years. During his tenure at PT. Sukses Bersama, Andi consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in his role as a marketing coordinator.
Key qualities that make Andi an exceptional candidate include:
- Exceptional leadership skills
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication skills
I have no doubt that Andi will bring the same level of commitment and excellence to your organization. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Rina Widyastuti
Human Resources Manager
PT. Sukses Bersama
22. Personal Reference Letter for Academic Admission (3)
SMA Negeri 5 Makassar
Jl. Kaliurang No. 987
Makassar, Indonesia
Makassar, 10 Juli 2025
Yth. Admission Committee,
University of Indonesia,
Jl. Universitas No. 123,
Depok, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Miss. Lestari Putri, a former student of SMA Negeri 5 Makassar, for admission to your prestigious university. During her time at our school, Lestari consistently demonstrated academic excellence and exceptional personal qualities.
Some of her notable achievements include:
- Top 2 in her graduating class
- Active participation in student organizations
- Volunteer work in local communities
Lestari is a highly motivated and disciplined individual who will undoubtedly excel in your academic programs. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0411) 1234 567 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Budi Hartono, S.Pd.
Principal
SMA Negeri 5 Makassar
23. Reference Letter for Business Partnership (3)
CV. Berkah Jaya
Jl. Puri No. 321
Bekasi, Indonesia
Bekasi, 15 Agustus 2025
Yth. Business Development Manager,
PT. Mega Karya,
Jl. Raya No. 789,
Bekasi, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend CV. Berkah Jaya as a trusted and reliable business partner. Over the past three years, we have collaborated on multiple projects, and I can confidently attest to their professionalism and integrity.
Key strengths of CV. Berkah Jaya include:
- Timely delivery of high-quality products
- Excellent customer service
- Strong commitment to ethical business practices
We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with CV. Berkah Jaya and highly recommend them to your esteemed company. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further inquiries.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Adi Wibowo
Owner
CV. Berkah Jaya
24. Personal Reference Letter for Visa Application (3)
Jl. Kemang No. 987
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 20 September 2025
Yth. Visa Officer,
Embassy of Australia,
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said No. 789,
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to provide a personal reference for Mr. Budi Santoso, who has applied for a tourist visa to Australia. I have known Budi for over 10 years, both as a neighbor and a close family friend.
During this time, I have observed the following qualities in Budi:
- High moral character
- Financial stability
- Strong family ties in Indonesia
Budi is a responsible and trustworthy individual who has always conducted himself with integrity. I am confident that he will comply with the terms of his visa and return to Indonesia upon completion of his visit.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0812) 1234 5678 if you require any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Sri Wahyuni
Housewife
25. Reference Letter for Rental Application (3)
Jl. Bintaro No. 654
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia
Jakarta, 10 Oktober 2025
Yth. Property Manager,
PT. Nusindo Properti,
Jl. Fatmawati No. 321,
Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Rudi Hartono as a tenant for your property at Jl. Bintaro No. 654. I have known Rudi for five years as a colleague at PT. Maju Bersama.
Key qualities that make Rudi an ideal tenant include:
- Timely payment of rent
- Good maintenance of property
- Responsible and reliable behavior
Rudi is a trustworthy individual who takes good care of the properties he rents. I am confident that he will be a responsible tenant for your property. Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234 5678 for any further information.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Lita Sari
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama
Conclusion
Reference letters play a crucial role in various aspects of life in Indonesia, from employment and academic admissions to business partnerships and volunteer work. The samples provided above demonstrate the proper format and tone for personal reference letters in Indonesia, emphasizing the importance of clarity, professionalism, and sincerity. By following these examples, you can create effective reference letters that highlight the strengths and qualities of the individual or organization being recommended.