Letter: Do not condemn all Australians

Wed, 03/26/2008 1:15 AM  |  Reader's Forum

I hope I can get through to readers some things which are important to the image of the Indonesian people.

I have seen Abu Bakar Ba'asyir again on TV telling the Indonesian people to beat up Australian tourists. As an Australian who's mother was born in Indonesia, I need to say he is degrading the image of Indonesian people in the eyes of the world.

I also must say I disagree with Australian tourists going to Indonesia and behaving badly. They should respect the fact this is a Muslim nation and due respect for the people should be given. Not all Australians are bad.

Some family tourists are well behaved and bring large sums of money to the Indonesian tourism pocket. Others who get involved in drunken and indecent behavior should be escorted to the airport and sent home.

Do not condemn all Aussies because of a few duds, just as we do not judge all Indonesians by the fanatical behavior of a few.

Show the world the Indonesians and Muslim people are not all fanatics, that they have a genuine concern for decent surroundings and beliefs they wish to protect, and speak up against Abu Bakar Ba'asyir.

RON RUYS
Brisbane

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