In Reply to: Can someone please explain? Thanks posted by struth on Sunday, 15. March 2009 at 06:20 Bali Time:
with the literal translation of the word "Ibu" to "mother". As most of us learn very soon into the Indonesian experience "Ibu" can mean "Mum" but is also a term of respect for an older woman.Close in meaning to "Ma'am" but not exactly so.
The young blokes will make the translation and call the visitor "Mum". She then assumes the role and calls him "Son" and so begins a relationship which may or may not be profitable for the "Son" and is much enjoyed by the Aussie "Mum" and the "Bali son"
This applies also to "Poppa" from the work "Bapak" meaning Father also used as a respectful term for an older male.
I'm neither for nor against the whole thing really but yes Struth, it is interesting isn't it?