I refer to a letter written by Gene Netto titled "Teaching of religion," (The Jakarta Post, July 1, p. 20)

First of all, I would like to say that I think this person's view of religion and education is very blinkered.

The many millions of children who have been "lied to" about Christmas over the years suffer no psychological side-effects (as far as anyone can see).

Measure this with the one-sided view of trying to cover-up or ignore the truth in this amazing and wonderfully diverse world, we live in - gay, or non-gay.

To correct Gene Netto, Muslim parents do pay for school fees through taxes, but at state schools and not public schools. Strange that it is, but public schools are in fact private schools where the parents choose to send their children - and pay a lot of money in excess of taxes - for one reason or another.

However, all public, private or state schools have a system whereby if parents object to a lesson for religious reasons, they can opt out of that lesson.

Secondly, Santa Claus is real. He is named after Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children. The idea of giving and receiving presents - no different in the Muslim world - is a joyous occasion for any age of person - regardless of religion.

It is also a ritual and cultural event dating back to Jesus' birth -pre-Mohammad - when the wise men brought precious gifts to show love and adoration.

Maybe the writer should have learned his lessons better at school. If it is called bigotry or intolerance when the majority of people follow a religious belief other than your own, then look no further than Indonesia.

It's everywhere - not just in the West.

If the parents living in a western country, using all the facilities that such a country gives, are not happy there, then maybe they should move to a country that tries to shield its citizens from all knowledge other than Islam.

Try Iran for example!

Ali

Medan

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