Relationships take time and effort and you must show reciprocal generosity to your hosts. Polite Javanese will often perch on the very edge of their seats and look at the floor at meetings, to show their respect for 'superiors'. It's a good idea to try to follow the way they sit and avoid sprawling or flinging out your arms. In particular, it is considered offensive to sit with your legs stretched out so that the soles of your feet face other people.

Choose a spokesperson to introduce your group. The spokesperson should spend a few minutes introducing each person individually - their names, their status (Director, Manager etc.), their field, their current projects.

Each person should make him/herself known by standing and making a slight bow. The spokesman may then make a short formal address, speaking about what you as a group representing an institution has to offer specifically this group. This will allow Indonesians to assess whether or not they will be able to help you. Only then, make your case for what kind of help you seek.

At the beginning or end of the meeting a formal presentation of a gift to the head of the Indonesian group is appropriate. Most favoured gifts are ones that can be 'put on display' such as plaques, ties, coasters, badges, testimonials

An informal session may follow, with private or group discussions over a light meal, to allow personal relations to develop. Generally, Indonesians will spend quite a long time chatting about families, children, mutual friends etc. before proceeding on to anything serious. They do not like to start any serious discussions until they feel quite comfortable.