PT Murni, Jakarta – Choosing the right programming language is a key initial step for a successful career in software development — especially with the rapid growth of the tech scene in Indonesia. In 2025, there are several programming languages that really stand out for their real-world impact by empowering innovations in technology. In this article, we’ll dive into the top ten popular programming languages worth mastering if you seek to stay ahead in Indonesia’s fast-growing software industry. We’ll also take a closer look at the latest trends and what the future holds for careers in programming.

Trends & Career Prospect 

According to TIOBE data, Python ranked No. 1 as the most popular programming language as of March 2024. This ranking remained unchanged in March 2025, according to PYPL data. PYPL data also shows that Java holds the second-largest market share globally, reaching 14.89%.

In 2025, JavaScript will remain one of the most popular programming languages, ranking third according to Pluralsight. A 2024 Statista report highlights its dominance, with over 62% of developers worldwide relying on JavaScript for software development. Its popularity reflects its versatility in both front-end and back-end development.

So, why should you choose a career in programming? According to DataCamp, programming continues to grow faster than most other fields. As we all know, technology is evolving rapidly, and programming skills have become essential in many areas driving that growth.

What’s great about having programming skills is the flexibility it offers. You can branch out into web development, data science, software engineering, or other tech-related roles that are constantly in demand. 

On top of that, programming opens up the potential for a high annual income — and if you’ve got experience under your belt, that number can go even higher.

1. Python

Python is a versatile programming language widely used in Indonesia by professionals in software development, IT, and computer science. Its extensive libraries and clear syntax make it ideal for a broad range of applications, from automation and large-scale data processing to artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and web development. This language also plays a crucial role in fields like cybersecurity and finance.

Some of the subscription platforms utilize Python for their app. For example, Netflix uses Python to analyze user viewing history, improve recommendations, and forecast audience size. Similarly, Spotify leverages Python for data analysis, enhancing its Radio and Discover features.

Benefit & Challenge

Python has an easy-to-read syntax, a rich standard library, and a strong community, making it beginner-friendly and highly versatile. However, it has a slower execution speed than compiled languages and is less suitable for mobile development. 

2. JavaScript

Despite Python’s popularity, JavaScript remains the backbone of modern web development. This popular programming language is essential for both front-end and back-end development, with frameworks like React.js enhancing UI/UX and Node.js enabling full-stack applications. Additionally, JavaScript extends beyond the web, playing a role in mobile app development (React Native), serverless computing (AWS Lambda), and IoT. 

Many renowned companies, like Microsoft, rely on JavaScript to power their applications. Microsoft’s Edge browser platform, built on JavaScript, delivers a faster and more modern user experience. Meanwhile, eBay leverages JavaScript and Node.js to create a seamless, interactive interface for its global marketplace. 

Why Choose JavaScript?

JavaScript offers several advantages, such as:

• High Versatility – JavaScript supports full-stack development, making it useful for both front-end and back-end applications.
• Rich Ecosystem – With frameworks like React.js and Node.js, developers can create dynamic and scalable applications.
• Strong Community Support – Its widespread adoption ensures continuous innovation and extensive learning resources.

3. Java

Java remains a dominant force in enterprise software, Android app development, and big data processing. Its stability and scalability make it ideal for large-scale systems, financial applications, and backend services. Companies like Amazon and Google leverage Java for backend services and cloud-based solutions.

The “Write Once, Run Anywhere” principle ensures Java applications work across different platforms, making it a top choice for businesses. Additionally, frameworks like Spring and Hibernate help streamline enterprise application development, while Apache Hadoop and Apache Spark power big data analytics. 

Why Choose Java?

Here are some advantages of using Java:

• Platform-independent – Code can run on any operating system without modification.
• Strong security features – Ideal for enterprise applications and financial services.
• Large community support – Extensive resources and continuous improvements.
• High demand – Widely used in industries like banking, e-commerce, and big data.

4. C#

C# is widely adopted across industries for its versatility and performance. Companies like Microsoft and Dell use it to build enterprise applications and cloud-based services, supporting large-scale business operations. In the gaming world, studios such as Ubisoft rely on C# through the Unity engine to develop high-quality mobile and console games, showcasing its power in both business and creative applications.

Why Choose C#?

Benefits of using C# include:

• Easy to learn compared to C++, with a structured and well-organized syntax.
• Strong typing and object-oriented principles make it suitable for large-scale applications.
• Cross-platform support through .NET Core allows development across Windows, macOS, and Linux. 

5. Go (Golang)

Go (or Golang) is an open-source language developed by Google in 2007 to simplify programming for modern systems. This is one of the ten popular programming languages. It’s known for its fast compilation, ease of use, and strong support for concurrency, making it ideal for high-performance and scalable applications. Many large-scale systems rely on Go because it handles thousands of tasks simultaneously with minimal overhead. Major adopters include Google, which uses Go across various infrastructure tools, and Dropbox, which switched from Python to Go for critical backend services.

One standout aspect of Go is its built-in garbage collection, which takes care of memory allocation automatically. This helps developers avoid memory leaks and bugs tied to manual memory handling. The result is more reliable code with less effort in managing resources. Combined with its simplicity and speed, Go is a practical choice for modern software development.

Companies Using Go

Several major companies have adopted Go due to its performance and scalability:

• Google: As the creator of Go, Google uses it extensively for data processing, Chrome optimization, and site reliability engineering.
• Dropbox: Replaced Python with Go for performance-critical backend systems, benefiting from its concurrency features. 

Why Choose Golang?

Benefits of using Golang include:

• High Performance & Efficiency: Go is optimized for speed, making it ideal for high-performance applications.
• Simple Syntax & Readability: More concise and modern design.
• Built-in Concurrency Support: Features like goroutines enable efficient multi-threading.
• Automatic Memory Management: Go includes garbage collection, reducing memory management overhead.

Besides Python, Golang or Go is also widely used in software development in Indonesia and among professionals in IT and computer science.

6. C++

Real-World Applications

C++ is widely used for performance-intensive applications, such as video games, financial trading platforms, and system software. It powers game engines like Unreal Engine, making it the top choice for AAA game development and virtual reality (VR) applications. 

In fintech, C++ is essential for high-frequency trading systems due to its speed and efficiency. Additionally, as the Internet of Things (IoT) expands, C++ remains a preferred language for hardware programming and industrial automation.

Many tech giants and industries rely on C++ for critical applications are Gaming, Finance & Trading and System & IoT. 

Why Choose C++? 

Here are some advantages of using C++:

• High-performance and memory-efficient, ideal for real-time applications.
• Supports multiple programming paradigms (OOP, procedural, and generic programming).
• Offers fine-grained control over system resources, making it powerful for hardware-level programming.

7. TypeScript

Real-world Applications

TypeScript is widely used in large-scale, enterprise-level web applications where long-term maintenance and scalability are key. It enhances JavaScript with static typing, making it ideal for front-end frameworks like Angular and increasingly adopted in React projects. It’s also used for developing open-source tools, APIs, and full-stack applications where robust error-checking is important. 

Pros & Challenges of TypeScript

TypeScript offers several advantages, such as:

• Static typing reduces runtime errors and improves code maintainability.
• Excellent tooling and IDE support.
• Enhances productivity on large projects.
• High job market demand with above-average salaries.

Here are some challenges of using TypeScript:

• Requires a build step, adding complexity to the workflow.
• Learning curve for JavaScript developers due to static typing.
• Migration from JavaScript can be time-consuming.

8. Kotlin

Real-world Applications

According to PYPL data featured on the Orient Software website, Kotlin ranks 13th in terms of market share. Some companies that have adopted the Kotlin programming language are:

• Mercedes Benz: Kotlin is used to build modern backend services, replacing Java in many internal projects.
• Adobe: Adobe employs Kotlin to build real-time services within the Adobe Experience Platform 

Why Choose Kotlin? 

Kotlin offers several advantages:

• Kotlin’s clear and compact code structure aids in detecting bugs during the compile stage, minimizing runtime errors and enhancing application stability.
• Kotlin offers first-class support for functional programming paradigms, allowing developers to write more expressive and modular code. 
• Kotlin is fully interoperable with Java, allowing developers to integrate Kotlin into existing Java projects without the need for complete rewrites. 

Widely adopted in Indonesia, this programming language is used in both software development and IT & computer science fields.

9. SQL

Real-world Applications

Based on Statista‘s data in 2024, Python, SQL, and TypeScript were among the five most commonly used programming languages globally. Several industries that have adopted the SQL programming language are:

• Data Scientists – Use SQL to extract and query structured data from relational databases like Oracle and MySQL, perform data preparation/wrangling, and create test environments.
• Data Analysts – Use SQL to analyze large volumes of data quickly, such as querying the number of purchases in a region. 
• Software Engineers – Use SQL to manage, query, update, and restructure data in relational databases. 

Pros & Challenges of SQL

SQL offers several advantages, such as:

• Efficiently retrieves and manipulates large amounts of data quickly.
• Includes features like access control, authentication, and encryption.
• Maintains data accuracy using constraints like primary/foreign keys.
• Built-in tools to recover data after failures.

Here are some challenges of using SQL:

• SQL requires structured data (tables/columns), which can be restrictive compared to NoSQL (good to know when choosing tools).
• As systems grow, managing SQL databases can get tricky and require advanced skills (helps prepare students for future roles).

10. PHP

Real-World Applications

PHP is extensively used to create dynamic websites, content management systems (CMS), online stores, and data collection applications. Its server-side scripting capabilities enable the development of interactive and responsive web pages. Some companies using PHP are Facebook, WordPress and Flickr. They have utilized PHP in handling large-scale web applications. 

Why Choose PHP?

PHP offers several advantages, such as:

• General-Purpose Flexibility: PHP’s versatility allows developers to build a wide range of web applications quickly and efficiently. ​
• Extensive Resources: The language offers numerous frameworks (e.g., Laravel, Symfony, CodeIgniter), libraries, and pre-made code segments that facilitate development and promote best practices. ​

Learning Tips

1. Start with the Fundamentals

Understand the core syntax, basic concepts (like variables, loops, conditionals), and programming paradigms (e.g., OOP or functional programming) before diving into frameworks or libraries.

2. Learn Through Structured Resources

Use trusted learning platforms, official documentation, tutorials, or books tailored to the language. Many languages have beginner-friendly courses.

3. Build Real Projects

Apply what you learn by creating hands-on projects—whether it’s a simple app, web tool, automation script, or game. Real-world practice solidifies your understanding.

4. Pick a Learning Tool That Suits You

Whether it’s interactive coding platforms, video tutorials, or books — choose what fits your learning style best. Consistency is more important than the format.

5. Join Developer Communities

Be active in language-specific forums, GitHub repos, Reddit groups, or Discord channels. Collaborating with others helps you learn faster, solve problems, and stay motivated.

Indonesia’s tech scene is growing fast, and choosing the right programming language can really set you apart. The languages we’ve listed each have their own strengths—whether you’re into building sleek websites, digging into data, or creating powerful software. Mastering just one of them can open doors to bigger projects, better job offers, and more career growth. 

Join our growing developer community at MDev and connect with passionate tech talents across Indonesia. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep in the world of code, we’d love to see what you’ve got.

Ready to level up your tech career? Visit mdev.co.id/career to explore open opportunities and send us your CV — let’s shape the future of software development  in Indonesia, together.

References
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11. Samojło, G., Samojło, G., & Netguru. (2024, November 26). Pros and Cons of Kotlin for Android App Development [2022 update]. Netguru. www.netguru.com.
12. Staff, C. (2024, October 14). What is GO programming language and what is it used for? Coursera. www.coursera.org.
13. Statista. Most Used Programming Languages Among Developers Worldwide 2024. Statista, 6 Feb. 2025, www.statista.com.
14. Top 10 companies using JavaScript for innovative Solutions | IronHack blog. (n.d.-b). www.ironhack.com.
15. Top 10 programming languages in 2025. (n.d.). www.pluralsight.com.
16. Top 30 companies that use Python for success and profit – JayDevs. (2023, August 8). JayDevs. jaydevs.com.
17. What is C# Programming? A Beginner’s Guide | Pluralsight. May 15, 2019. www.pluralsight.com
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