Indonesia, with its diverse culture and beautiful landscapes, is also home to some of the most heartfelt romantic expressions in the world. Whether you’re planning a trip to this enchanting archipelago or simply want to impress your Indonesian partner, learning a few romantic phrases can go a long way. Here’s a guide to some tender words and phrases that can help you express your love in Indonesian.

Aku cinta kamu
This is the most straightforward and perhaps the most common way to say “I love you” in Indonesian. It’s a phrase that can be used in varying degrees of relationships, from a budding romance to a long-standing marriage.
Saat matahari terbenam, dia berkata, “Aku cinta kamu” dengan penuh perasaan.

Sayang
This term is equivalent to “dear” or “darling,” and is often used as a term of endearment for loved ones. It can refer to a romantic partner but is also used among family members or close friends.
“Selamat malam, sayang,” ucapnya saat ia beranjak tidur.

Kangen
When you miss someone dearly, this is the word to use. “Kangen” is a step above “miss” because it conveys a deep longing or yearning for someone’s presence.
“Aku kangen kamu setiap saat,” katanya saat mereka berpisah di bandara.

Kamu membuatku bahagia
An eloquent way to tell someone that they bring joy to your life, this phrase is powerful in expressing your appreciation and happiness towards your partner.
Dia tersenyum lembut dan berkata, “Kamu membuatku bahagia.”

Kamu cantik / kamu tampan
Complimenting your partner’s looks in Indonesian is as simple as saying “kamu cantik” for women or “kamu tampan” for men, meaning “you’re beautiful” and “you’re handsome,” respectively.
Setiap kali dia melihatnya, dia tidak bisa menahan diri untuk tidak mengatakan, “Kamu cantik sekali malam ini.”

Aku rindu padamu
This is another phrase for expressing that you miss someone, but with an added emotional depth. The word “rindu” resonates with the sense of longing for someone’s presence, which is essential in a romantic context.
“Walaupun baru beberapa jam terpisah, aku rindu padamu,” katanya via pesan teks.

Jatuh cinta
Simply meaning “falling in love,” this phrase captures the magical sensation of beginning to love someone.
Sejak pertama bertemu, aku sudah jatuh cinta denganmu.

Bidadari
In Indonesian mythology, a “bidadari” is a heavenly nymph or angel. In a romantic context, using this word to describe your significant other is like calling her an angelic or divine being.
Setiap pagi dia bangun dan melihat pasangannya, dan berbisik, “Selamat pagi, bidadari ku.”

Peluk
A “peluk” means a hug in Indonesian. Physical affection, such as a hug or an embrace, is a universal expression of love and warmth.
Dia membuka tangannya dan berkata, “Aku butuh peluk kamu sekarang.”

Kasih
Derived from the word “kasih sayang,” which means love or affection, “kasih” itself can mean “love” or can be used to address someone with affection, similar to “dear.”
“Aku akan selalu ada untukmu, kasih,” ucapnya sambil menggenggam tangannya.

Selamat malam, mimpikan aku ya
This phrase means “Goodnight, dream of me.” It’s a sweet way to end the night, implying you want to be in their thoughts even as they drift to sleep.
Saat lampu dimatikan, dia berbisik, “Selamat malam, mimpikan aku ya.”

Each of these expressions carries its own depth and nuance, making them perfect for various moments in your love story. Whether you’re whispering sweet nothings or declaring your love in the open, these Indonesian phrases are sure to warm the heart of your loved one. Selamat mencoba (good luck) in your romantic endeavors with the beautiful Indonesian language!