Indonesia is a more conservative country in many ways than Western countries are. Open displays of affection will no doubt offend those within the area and result in disapproving looks. Despite contact between opposite sexes being frowned upon, contact between the same sex is a regular sight. It is used as a gesture of friendship. Confrontation is avoided at almost all costs, so shouting and getting angry will not produce results if things don't go your way. With the transport system and climate as they are, staying calm and unhurried is the only way to enjoy the country. It is highly unlikely that you will go an entire day in the country without at least one stranger striking up a conversation with you.
The locals here are used to foreigners and don't care so much. In less touristy places, particularly where there are Indonesian families on holiday, it is considered rude and offensive. Going nude at beaches is illegal in Indonesia, and is impossible pretty much everywhere. Indonesian culture has been shaped by long interaction between original indigenous customs and multiple foreign influences. Indonesia is central along ancient trading routes between the Far East and the Middle East, resulting in many cultural practices being strongly influenced by a multitude of religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Islam, all strong in the major trading cities. The result is a complex cultural mixture very different from the original indigenous cultures.
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