In Reply to: Respectful way to meet someone posted by Balibabe on Tuesday, 10. July 2007 at 12:19 Bali Time:
In Indonesia generally it is very important to be always very polite at all times. Politeness and formality are much more important than in many modern Western cultures like Australia. Always shake hands and say your name and you will hear their name too. You should always use their name and put Pak or Ibu in front to indicate respect. Even with people I have known for 10 years or more I would never call them by their name without Pak in front. The common Australian use of first name by anyone at all would be regarded as rude and disrespectful. Before leaving always ask permission (permisi or pamit) and shake hands again. Hugging would be far too familiar and inappropriate. Hope this helps - always err on the side of formality.