(here I Am Indonesian) Have A Great Independence Day, Indonesia Poem by Sari Mavi

Indonesia's culture is somewhat alien to the west,
so a list for etiquette would never be exhaustive

Making friends is the single easiest way to
learn local customs

Many traditions and norms are implicit, so
they won't take offense if you ask about
how things work or what just happened

Like anywhere in the world, treating people with
a high level of respect goes a long way

Be kind and
They will be kind in return

Indonesians are a polite people and
adopting a few local conventions will go a long way
to smooth your stay

Better results will be gained by remaining polite
and humble at all times, never raising your voice,
and smiling

Asking the person to help you find a solution
to the problem, rarely, if ever, is it appropriate
to try to blame or accuse

When meeting someone,
be it for the first time ever
or just the first time that day,

Meetings often start and end with
everybody shaking hands with everybody

Some Muslim women may prefer a friendly smile
and held nod over a handshake

It is also respectful to bend slightly
(not a complete bow)

When greeting someone older
or in a position of authority

Children may go to the extreme
and kiss your hand or bow down to it

Never use your left hand for anything!
It is considered very rude

This is especially true when you are shaking hands
or handing something to someone

It can be hard to get used to, especially if you are left handed
However, sometimes special greetings are given with both hands

Don't point someone with your finger,
if you want point someone or something
It is better use your right thumb, or with a fully open hand

Polite forms of address for people you don't know are :
"Bapak" ("Mr")for men
and Ibu ("Mrs")for women

You can address them respectfully
as "Pak Budi " (for men)
or "Bu Novi" (for women)

If you know the name of the person
you're talking to

The Javanese terms "mas" ("older brother")
and "mbak" ("older sister")are also heard,
but best reserved for equals, not superiors;

It also implies youth, so is often used
for unmarried people

Using their name signifies openness
(so as if not to talk of them secretly)
and acknowledgment

Remove your shoes or sandals outside
before entering a house, unless the owner explicitly
allows you to keep them on

When others are sitting, while walking around them,
it is customary to bow slightly

Lower a hand to "cut" through the crowd;
avoid standing upright

Don't walk in front of people,
instead walk behind them

Do not stand or sit with your arms crossed
or on your hips; this is a sign of anger or hostility

If you're wondering about a person's reaction
or you see any peculiar gesture you don't understand

They will appreciate it if you ask them directly,
(casually later, in a friendly and humble manner) ,
rather than ignoring it

And if all this seems terribly complex to you
Don't worry about it too much —
Don't worry about this kind of thing

Other than laws or common-sense,
breaking a rule won't get you in trouble

In general such a question is more than an apology;
it shows trust

Indonesians are an easygoing bunch and don't expect foreigners
to know or understand intricacies of etiquette

Here I am Indonesian - feel the pride of being
the part of such a glorious nation: Indonesia

Have a great independence day
On August 17 my beloved country!