Walking is one of the simplest and healthiest forms of physical activity. However, this habit is increasingly being abandoned, especially in some Southeast Asian countries.
In fact, Indonesia has been ranked as the country with the lowest average daily step count in the world, according to a 2017 study by Stanford University.
The study, which analyzed data from 717,527 individuals across 111 countries, found that Indonesians walk an average of only 3,513 steps per day. This number is significantly lower than in Hong Kong, which recorded 6,880 steps per day, the highest in the world.
This low step count is more than just a statistic—it is closely linked to various social, economic, and environmental factors that have made Indonesians increasingly reluctant to walk.
The Struggles of Walking in Indonesia
Indonesia ranks as the country with the lowest average daily step count, according to a study by Stanford University. Several key factors contribute to the low level of walking activity in Indonesia:
1. Poor Pedestrian Infrastructure
Many sidewalks in Indonesia are in poor condition—narrow, damaged, or even nonexistent. Additionally, sidewalks are often misused by street vendors or motorcyclists, forcing pedestrians to share the road with vehicles, which poses serious safety risks.
2. Dependence on Motorized Vehicles
Indonesians tend to prefer using motorized vehicles, even for short-distance trips. This trend is further fueled by the accessibility of private vehicles and the affordability of app-based transportation services.
3. Hot and Humid Tropical Climate
Indonesia’s hot temperatures and high humidity discourage many people from walking, especially during the day. The lack of green spaces and shaded pedestrian pathways further adds to the discomfort.
4. Lack of a Walking Culture
Walking has not yet become an integral part of the Indonesian lifestyle. Many people prioritize the convenience of private vehicles over walking. Even in major cities like Jakarta, walking remains less popular than using private cars or ride-hailing services.
5. Insufficient Supporting Facilities
A lack of essential amenities, such as seating areas along pedestrian paths, disability-friendly walkways, and convenient access to public transportation, also discourages people from walking.
6. Traffic Congestion and Air Pollution
The heavy presence of motor vehicles often leads to severe air pollution, making walking an unpleasant and unhealthy activity. This is especially true in major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan, where pollution levels are significantly high.
7. Low Awareness of Walking Benefits
Many Indonesians are unaware of the significant benefits of walking, both for physical and mental health. Public education on the importance of walking as part of a healthy lifestyle remains limited.
