Symbolic convergence of local wisdom in cross–cultural collaborative social responsibility: Indonesian case

Abstract

Lately, the CSR policies of Multinational Corporations in Indonesia show certain improvements. It cannot be denied that at present the CSRs of Multinational Corporations in Indonesia indicate they are visibly supporting/involved in assisting the attainment of some of the Global Goals for Sustainable Development (SDGs). This study examines the CSR activities of several Multinational Corporations in Indonesia, in particular how they adjust/adapt to the local wisdom in their efforts to attain their CSR goals.The main theory applied in our study is the Symbolic Convergence Theory, supported by the Accommodation Communication Theory. Three Multinational Corporations in Indonesia were chosen as subjects of this research. Analysis is based on the Collaborative Social Responsibility Model (Kartikawangi, 2015) and Cross Cultural Communication Competence in Business Interaction models (Kartikawangi et al., 2016).At present “positive” actions are increasing by companies in efforts to better understand the society they are working in. Clearer understandings of local, regional and national societal factors are required to enhance the corporation’s product development programs, marketing strategies, and CSR strategies. Local, regional and national societal groups are in positions to choose what should be provided by the companies in achieving shared and practical Symbolic Convergence meanings. The societal groups actively present their aspirations, but also the aspirations and local wisdom that must be absorbed by the company. Symbolic Convergence in the relationship is built by all interacting parties. These interactions include the companies, government and local society. Meanwhile, the media also assist in developing awareness through the dissemination of various balanced information in the form of social disclosures.