1. Using this case and the cultural dimensions explored in this chapter, discuss some of the ways in which citizens of Australia and New Zealand are members of cultures very different from any other in Asia.
- Australia and New Zealand cultures are drastically different from the culture of those who live in most Asian countries. No matter where you live, religion plays a large role in everyday life. Australia and New Zealand’s most practiced form of religion is Catholicism while the most practiced religion in Asia is Hinduism. The two different religions definitely play a role in how the countries cultures are and how they operate in business. The different religions can have an effect on work breaks, holidays, or ‘blessing’ of office locations. All of these things can have an effect on profit for your company.
Another cultural difference is that Asia signifies the importance of developing long-term relationships to make a profit which is different from Australia and New Zealand. This does not mean that Australia and New Zealand do not aim for long-lasting relationships to help in their business practices; they just do not put as much stress on that as other Asian cultures. Strong relationships are vital to the cultural success of other Asian civilizations. The keys to Australian businesses being successful in Asia are perseverance, patience and building relationships. For successful engagement in business in the region, don’t just focus on understanding the culture of ‘the other’ but take the time to reflect on what it is about Australian culture which may be challenging.

Another difference in the two societies deals with the humor that is used in Australia and New Zealand. Humor in business relations can be frowned upon in many different cultures. Classic Australian humor is laconic, self-deprecating, and full of banter and “put-downs”. We often use this style of humor to demonstrate our affection and respect for each other. To people from hierarchical cultures, this behavior is very strange. Why would you choose to insult people in order to show you respect them? This can be a negative thing for the business relationships between the two different continents.

2. In what respects is the Indonesian archipelago unique in Asia?
- There are many different ways that the Indonesian archipelago is unique in Asia. This series of islands is located between both Asia and Australia. One unique feature is that there are certain species found there that have flourished when they might not be able to in other regions. One example is the famous Komodo dragon on the island of the same name. The series of islands also have rare flowers like exotic orchids, unusual insects, birds of paradise and numerous original spices such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and mace. The Indonesian archipelago is also unique due to its large size compared to other series of islands as well as its diversity. Climate conditions, raw material resources, and environment differ between each island. Some regions experience heavy rain while others could experience drought.

3. What characteristics of Indonesian workplaces arc referred to in this profile?
-Like many Asian countries, Indonesian workplaces consist of managers with high morals. They emphasis harmony, understanding, as well as mutual respect. It is vital for managers to maintain a workplace where individual cases, religion, and cultural differences are all considered. Individual understanding is also stressed throughout the entire Indonesian culture. A more laidback setting is allowed in Indonesia. However, efficiency, productivity and effectiveness take priority in Western cultures.

4. How does the population appear to be socially stratified?
-The Indonesian population has multiple different levels of social classes. The country has been socially stratified for years. An easy way to tell that they population is socially stratified is by the many different levels of pay and the way each level of class lives their life. The lowest class would be the homeless beggars that live on the street. Many make their money by begging on busy roads in the city and selling certain items on the street. Lower to middle classes can vary depend on the family and each individual situation. Although few would dispute that Indonesia was a highly stratified society, it was nonetheless difficult to identify an "upper class."
The upper class can be divided in to two groups as well, new rich and old money. New rich are people who previously were part of the middle class and later became rich. Old money includes people who were born rich. Some new rich use their wealth as an opportunity to have a better education, while some don't. New rich individuals who decide to get a higher education will find it easier to be friends with other rich people where they have similar ethics, moral values, and taste.

5. What are some business opportunities in Indonesia for foreign direct investment?
- Business opportunities in Indonesia for foreign direct investment include information and communication technology, e-commerce, education and training; environmental products and services, food and beverages, fresh produce, health and medical provisions, mining and mineral services, oil and petroleum drilling, transport and storage, science and technology, agribusiness, the automotive industry, business and financial service, and construction and infrastructure.