Indonesia

A country lying along the equator between the Indian and Pacific Oceans,  Indonesia is composed of some 13,670 island. It is the largest country, both in area and population, in South East Asia. It also the fourth most populous nation in the world. The capital is jakarta.

Indonesia has morre than 300 different ethnic groups speaking 250 languages. Most of the people however are of Malay ancestry. The largest ethnic is Javanese. The Chinese form the most numerous non-malay community.

Most of the population practices Islam. Other religion include Christiany, Hinduism, and Buddhism. In remoteareassome tribal religions are practiced. The national language of the country is called Bahasa Indonesia.

The majority of Indonesian live in rural areas, but the cities are growing. More than half of the population lives on the island of Java. On this island are the country’s three largest cities- Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bandung.

Indonesia is known for its rich cultural traditions. The country is famous for its many dance styles, especially on Java and Bali. Music, dance, and drama are combined in shadow puppets shows know as wayang. Decorative arts include batik, a traditional technique for dyeing fabric. 

Agricultures employes more than 40 percent of the work force in Indonesia. The staple cropmis rice. Indonesia is a major supplier of natural rubber. Other cash crops include coffee, sugarcane, tea, tobacco, copra, spices, and oil palm. Goats, cattle, and sheep are raised. The water surrounding Indonesia allow for a fishing industry. 

Indonesia produces large quantities of petroleum and natural gas, which are the leading exports. The country is also rich In copper, nickel, bauxite (from which aluminium is made), and gold. The forest are another important natural resource and wood products are major export items.

Manufacturing expanded greatly in Indonesia in the late 20th century and has become a major part of the economy. Chief manufactured products incude chemicals, cement, tires, and textiles and clothing.