Smoking in Indonesia

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Many Indonesians smoke. I mean, MANY! (Maybe I should say most Indonesians?) People smoke in public places, public transportation, and even in a small room. If you are allergic to cigarettes, tough luck. Another bad side of this smoking habit is that people throw cigarette butts and packs everywhere. Most Indonesian smokers smoke clove cigrattes, called "rokok kretek". It's sweet and lasts longer than western-type cigarettes. Popular local brands are "Gudang Garam", "Jarum", "234", "Bentoel", "Wismilak", "Prins1p", "Lintang Enam." It's a big industry, in Indonesia. Imported cigrattes are also available. An example of popular imported cigarretes is Marlboro. Indonesiana. In 1875, Haji Djamari introduced the term "rokok kretek". The word kretek was taken from the sound of burning clove; "kretek...kretek..." Unfortunately, some small kids (mostly boys) also smoke. Unlike other countries, cigarette advertising is everyhere; billboards, newspapers, magazines, radio, and TV. It's legal. Many events are sponsored by cigarette companies. (Formula-1 racing, yous should go here. You'll find it easier.) By the way, I don't smoke. I think it's bad to our health. But, this is Indonesia. I have to tolerate it. back to main page