Meja

Meja is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to refer to a piece of furniture with a flat horizontal surface supported by legs. It is used for activities such as eating, writing, or working, and encompasses a range of pieces from dining tables to desks and coffee tables found in homes, offices, and schools.

The word meja is native to Malay and Indonesian languages. Its precise etymology is not clearly established in published sources, but the term has long been part of everyday usage across Malay-speaking regions.

Common types include meja makan (dining table), meja tulis or meja belajar (writing or study desk), meja kerja (work table), meja kopi (coffee table), and meja rias (vanity table). Meja are usually made from wood such as teak or other hardwoods, as well as metal or glass, with finishes including varnish, stain, lacquer, or paint. Construction typically involves a flat top supported by legs or a supporting frame, with variations in height and width according to function.

In daily life, meja serves as a focal point for meals, study, work, and social gatherings. Indonesian furniture design often emphasizes natural materials and craftsmanship, and modern meja blend traditional techniques with contemporary styles, supporting a range of interior trends from rustic to minimalist.