Bunda

Bunda is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to address a mother or maternal figure. It is an affectionate and respectful form of address that sits between informal terms like mama and more formal terms like ibu. In everyday speech, children may call their mother “Bunda,” and adults may use it when speaking about mothers in general, or when addressing a mother in a warm, familial tone.

In cultural and social contexts, bunda often conveys warmth, care, and familiarity. It is common in households, parenting media, and advertising that targets mothers, where the term can evoke closeness and trust. The word is widely understood across Indonesia and Malaysia and is part of everyday familial language as well as public-facing materials aimed at mothers.

Compared with other terms for mother, such as ibu (more formal) or mama (informal or affectionate in various languages), bunda tends to express a tender, maternal bond. Its usage can vary by region and speaker, but it remains a widely recognized way to refer to one's mother or to address mothers in general.

See also: Ibu, Mama.