On politeness

I can certainly sympathize with the writer of the letter dated Sept. 29, 1994, titled A matter of politeness. As an American woman living in Jakarta, I am constantly stared at by Indonesians. I cannot go anywhere without being pointed at, or having someone shout "Hello mister!"

Cars and buses slow down on the street so that the passengers can jeer and laugh at me. I find this to be extremely annoying. I have been told that Indonesians are very friendly people, and will not miss an opportunity to show their hospitality.

If they wish to befriend me, making fools out of themselves, as well as myself, is not the way to go about it.

Can anyone explain this impolite behavior?

AMY ORAVEC

Jakarta