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Warungs are the best classrooms in the land. Indonesians love to teach you and they are very patient, writing words out and breaking them down for you. They are also very encouraging, crying 'Wah, jointer sekafil' (Wow, very smart!) if you just utter a few words. Using this method of studying with the people all you really need is just your dictionary. Find one that suits you (buy them cheaper in Indonesia). Don't go anywhere without it. Use it in combination with a good oral method and a good grammar book. Australian high school texts ire usually good. For other helpful books, check the language section of the Booklist. An outstanding way to learn is with children; learn as they learn. Childrens' readers are well suited for learners bepause they are scaled down from the 8th or 9th grades to the first grade level. The language used is idiomatic and the contents have everyday applications. The lower the number (1 B opposed to 3 A), the simpler the text. Some you can almost follow by looking at the pictures; they cost only Rp100-200.

When learning a regional Indonesian language, use Bahasa Indonesia as your learning medium: always ask for the Indonesian word for the bahasa daerah (local language) word. Intensive Language Course: Each year from Dec. 20th, the Satya Wancana University of Salatiga in Central Java holds a one month course for Rp130,000. Registration closes in September. Some previous experience with Indonesian is a requirement. The cost pays for teaching materials, room and board, and group excursions to places like the Dieng Plateau and Prambanan. Contact either George Quinn, Dept. of Indonesian and Malayan Studies, Univeristy of Sydney, N.S.W. 2006, Australia; or Dr. Toisuta, Satya Wancana University, Salatiga, Java Tengah, Indonesia.