On politeness

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