Reference
X214/12/6
Title
Transcript of interview with Annie Bortnichuk, born 1965
Date free text
11 Apr 2009
Production date
From: 1965 To: 2009
Scope and Content
Born in Jakata.
17 August celebrated independance day.
Describes childhood games.
Returned to Indonesia in 2007 and met up with old friends.
Family were kind and friendly people who helped others.
Came from a Muslim background, so celebrated Eid.
Attended a modern school with two floors and a gated compound; the gates were locked when the pupils were inside. The school was very strict. Describes school uniforms.
Qualified as a nurse.
Before coming to the UK lived 5 years in Saudi Arabia, 2 years in Australia and months in Turkey and Czech Republic. Needed to earn money to send home for education of siblings. Worked as a nurse in Saudi Arabia and at the Indonseian Embassy in Australia. Went to Turkey as a tourist. Describes experiences.
Came to the UK in 1987 to work at the Indonesian Embassy in London. Met husband in London. Has three children, two daughters and a son. The oldest is 12 and the youngest 7. After second child was born had a nanny for a few years.
Parents were from different religions.
Finds England lonely; it is difficult to get to know people.
Now works for Luton Borough Council and does everything at home.
Sometimes goes to church, but not very interested in religion.
Does not have social activities as has to work ot pay the bills.
Has a gathering in the garden twice a year; a lot of Indonesians who are married to English.
Met most friends when working at the Indonesian Embassy.
Celebrates Christmas and Easter.
Misses family and friends in Indonesia. Telephones them at weekends.
In Indonesia the children show more respect than in th UK.
Batik fabric is famous in Indonesia, and very expensive. Traditional costumes are worn for Eid, or Independence Day.
Many different nationalities live in Luton.
Level of description
item