With this paper I would like to express the importance of Language Learning in a culturally diverse environment. In Country Language Programs give the student the opportunity not only to acquire knowledge in Bahasa Indonesia but also in the customs and religion of a different society. The emphasis is now on religion. Having experienced a lack of understanding in regards of Islam and Hinduism amongst Australians I have pushed this point in the last few months. Lombok's diverse religious background is giving the student plenty to work with. Visits to pesantren schools as well as waktu telu villages and Hindu kampungs have broadened many students' horizons.

This program is also available for non students and the number of participants from professional backgrounds is in the rise. I am currently working on a cultural program which will enable participants to learn local arts and local dialects. Programs like these will bring both neighbours nearer which is vital for
Australian Indonesian relations.
 
 

Biodata:

Lucretia Prang is coordinating the NTU's In Country Indonesian Programs in Lombok since 2000 and numbers are rising. I am currently working for my Masters by Research with the title: The Influence Of Islamic Women Organizations on Sasak Adat. I am born in Germany and immigrated to Australia 13 years ago.
 
 

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