Monday, August 4, 2008

Rubber Time - Jam Karet

Time has a different dimention here. Indonesian live a flowing life like a gentle river carring everything along. No stressed caused by time or schedule. Indonesian live in rubber time - jam karet.
When someone said he will come to your house at 10 o’clock, it means “about 10 o’clock or approximately”. If they attempt to be punctual, they will state jam 10 pas atau jam 10 tepat - 10 o’clock sharp.

The rubberish form would strech from minutes to hours!
But for them in business circle, high social status and educated people, punctuality is something important. If you are late for an appointment, they will think you are unorganized and irresponsible.

Well, each culture has their own approach to time. Indonesian life is not driven by time. Harmonious interaction with other people is important. Being polite is important. Most of the things done in a spontaneous, flexible way. You need to slow down and develop interpersonal skills once you live in Indonesia. They are highly valued.

Do you find this is interesting?

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