A Glossary of Indonesian Words

Many of the italicized foreign words are defined in the articles, but the following terms may require explanation. The following pronunciation rules generally apply: D.J as J in English, J as Y (except in place names), SJ as SII, TJ as CII, OE as U.

arja: a Balinese classical dance-drama.

arrack: a strong liquor, popular in the East.

babu: a maidservant.

Bahasa Indonesia: the official language of Indonesia, based on Malay and further adapted to Indonesian conditions.

bismillah (Arab): “In the name of God,” the first word in the Koran.

Bung: literally, “brother,” used as a common name of affection.

Bung Kamo: The affectionate name for President Sukarno.

Fatihah (Arab): the preamble of a chapter in the Koran.

gedek: wickerwork.

kain: a form of sarong.

kebyar: a modern Balinese solo dance (see illustration, page 149).

Kulhu (Arab): part of a sentence in the Koran, “Say that God is one.”

lontar: a species of palm tree.

Pantja-Sila: the Five Principles in Indonesia’s Constitution summing up its political philosophy, derived from the country’s ancient civilization.

pendopo: an open front room in a house.

pentjak: a Balinese fighting dance performed by young men (see illustration, page 149).

purdah: seclusion of women from public view.

ringgit: two and one-half rupiahs (see below).

rupiah: principal unit of Indonesian currency; at official rate of exchange today, 11.4 rupiahs to one dollar.

sate: pieces of meat broiled on a skewer.

Swadeshi (Indian): a movement aimed to produce and use home manufactures, boycotting imports.

Tuan: “Sir” or “Mister.”

wayang Iculit: a Javanese puppet play in which leather puppets arc used (see illustration, page 135).

u-ayang orang: a Javanese puppet dance-drama in which people play the roles of puppets (illustration, page 148).