INDONESIA

The Republic of Indonesia is a transcontinental country in Southeast Asia and Oceania . Comprising 17,508 islands , it is the world's largest archipelagic state. With an estimated population of around 237 million people, it is the world's fourth most populous country and the most populous Muslm -majority nation; however, no reference is made to Islam in the Indonesian constitution . Indonesia is a republic , with an elected legislature and president .

The nation's capital city is Jakarta .

The country shares land borders with Papua New Guinea , East Timor and Malaysia .
Other neighboring countries include Singapore , the Philippines , Australia , and the Indian territory of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands .

Across its many islands, Indonesia consists of distinct ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups. The Javanese are the largest and most politically dominant ethnic group. As a unitary state and a nation , Indonesia has developed a shared identity defined by a national language , ethnic diversity, religious pluralism within a majority Muslim population, and a history of colonialism and rebellion against it. Indonesia's national motto, " Bhinneka tunggal ika " ("Unity in Diversity" literally, "many, yet one"), articulates the diversity that shapes the country. Despite its large population and densely populated regions, Indonesia has vast areas of wilderness that support the world's second highest level of biodiversity . The country is richly endowed with natural resources, yet poverty is a defining feature of contemporary Indonesia.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Jakarta Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia. Its rapid growth as a metropolitan city reflects dynamics of the national economic, political, social and industrial development. Jakarta is the center of Indonesia's national administration, economic, social and cultural activities. Jakarta spreads over an area of 637 square km with a population of approaching to 12 million people.

Health Regulations No health certificates are needed. However, visitors who have traveled through yellow fever endemic zones within six days prior to arrival in Indonesia are required to hold valid certificates of inoculation against yellow fever. Visitors arriving without such certificates must report to the Health authorities for necessary inoculation.

Climate Indonesia has a warm tropical climate between 27 - 34 Celcius.

Season Indonesia has two seasons, namely dry season that usually takes place during April to October, and rainy season during October to April.

Electricity and Water Supply Most hotels use 220 volts 50 cycles and two-pronged plugs. However, it is not uncommon to find some hotels using 110 volts, particularly in the provinces. Check before using an appliance. Some hotels supply adaptors on request. Water supply fully managed by local city government, source water is usually taken from natural springs or river streams, not to be consumed directly from the tap. For those who prefer bottled mineral water, local supermarkets and grocers usually carry a sizeable selection.
Language Bahasa Indonesia is the official language; English is widely spoken and understood.

Currency

• Most internationally recognized currencies and travelers' checks can be exchanged easily at commercial banks, hotels and the Soekarno-Hatta Airport. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and major shops.
• The exchange rate is approximately US$ 1 to Rp. 9,200.