rapat

Rapat is a noun used in Indonesian and Malaysian Malay to refer to a gathering of people for discussion and decision-making. It can be formal or informal and may be held for planning, coordination, or governance.

The word derives from the Malay and Indonesian adjective rapat, meaning close or tight, reflecting how participants are brought together in close proximity. The related verb merapat means to gather, convene, or approach.

A rapat typically has an agenda, a chair (pimpinan or pembawa rapat), a secretary, and attendees. It may include opening remarks, discussion of listed items, assignment of tasks, and a closing. Minutes or notulen rapat record attendance, discussions, and decisions, while a berita acara rapat may summarize formal outcomes.

Common types include rapat kerja (working meeting), rapat umum (general meeting), rapat pimpinan (leadership meeting), and rapat dewan (council or board meeting). Rapat occur in government, corporate, educational, and community settings, and may vary in formality and procedure according to the organization.

Outcomes of a rapat include decisions, directives, and assigned action items with deadlines. Documentation, such as notulen or berita acara, provides a record for accountability and follow-up. To improve effectiveness, many organizations emphasize a clear agenda, a defined chair, timekeeping, attendee preparation, and timely distribution of minutes.