Sarah Locker is a participant in the 2018 Law Professional Practicum from the Australian National University. Sarah is studying a Bachelor of Law (Honours) and a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in International Commerce. Sarah received a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to support her participation in this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS Law Professional Practicum?
First and foremost, I was excited by the opportunity to study in Indonesia, one of Australia’s most significant neighbours. I have always wanted to pursue further language studies in University, and this program provided an ideal opportunity for me to begin Bahasa Indonesia language studies over the study break whilst receiving credit as part of my law degree. I also realised that this practicum would provide a practical learning experience and reveal insights into the application of law in an Indonesian context.
Q: How will the Law Professional Practicum benefit or influence your future career?
This program has assisted in developing my cultural competence and in establishing the language skills necessary to actively contribute towards the Australia-Indonesia relationship, as well as in the broader international sphere.
Q: Which organisation are you interning with? What are your roles and responsibilities?
I’m currently interning at HukumOnline and my main responsibility has been editing English translations of Indonesian Regulations. Recently, I have also been tasked with conducting research into the Australian perspective on several key Indonesian legal issues as well as examining the effectiveness of the existing Indonesian legal framework in attracting foreign direct investment.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
In terms of the working environment, one notable difference to Australia is the strong sense of ‘camaraderie’ among colleagues and the relaxed corporate culture. The workers appear to genuinely enjoy spending time together, with lots of chatting occurring throughout the day and many staying in the office until late at night.
Q: Would you like to return to work in Indonesia again in future?
Yes, I believe that is a definite possibility. However, given the difficulties regularly encountered in Jakarta such as the torrential rain and logistical complications, it would certainly be important to have more advanced Indonesian language skills.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Indonesia?
My main activities include discovering new local eateries, trying different city bars, enjoying regular spa treatments and experimenting with my GO-JEK food orders.
Q: Favourite place to eat? Favourite Indonesian food?
My favourite place to eat is this wonderful warung in Setiabudi where you can get all varieties of vegetables, eggs and fish. Another highlight is a particular shop in the Atma Jaya canteen which serves a wide array of healthy Indonesian food at a very low price. I also loved getting a fresh juice smoothie every day at Atma Jaya and attempted to try all varieties, even the avocado flavour. My favourite food would have to be gado-gado!
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?
Macet sekali: a very pertinent phrase reflecting the reality of life in Jakarta.
Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your practicum so far?
I have managed to travel to Puncak Pass, Bogor, Thousand Islands, Sukabumi and Candi Dasa in Bali. Sukabumi was a particular highlight for me, with a challenging hike through the rice paddies being rewarded with a thoroughly relaxing swim in the waterfall.