NTM - planting tribal churches : Indonesia

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Indonesia is a sprawling archipelago of islands with rich diversity. This large country has rich history in the spice trade and in more recent years, petroleum exploration. One of the largest producers of lumber and rubber, Indonesia is also known for its mining of rich mineral resources. Indonesia is growing rapidly and developing as an economic force in SE Asia as a charter member of the Association of South East Asian Nations. Mountains, volcanoes and beautiful beaches draw visitors from all over the world. Known for their hospitality, the Indonesian people are quick to welcome the world.

The Buddhist Sriwijaya empire of Sumatra and the Hindu Mataram kingdom in Java emerged toward the end of the 7th century. The last important kingdom to remain Hindu was the Majapahit, which was founded in the 13th century. The subsequent spread of Islam into the archipelago in the 14th century forced the Majapahits to retreat to Bali in the 15th century. In 1511, the Muslim empire of Malacca fell to the Portugese who colonized Indonesia. In the 16th century, Indonesia came under the control of the Dutch who ruled the island nation for more than 350 years. Gaining its independence in 1945, Indonesia has been diligently nation-building for the past 60 years and is poised to become one of the great democratic successes in Asia.

The island of Java is well known for the craft of Batik making. Material is dipped in hot dye and wax in order to make colorful designs. Batik attire is worn on many special occasions.