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or most of us, what he does seems irrelevant.

Why should we translate the word "email" into Indonesian when the world seems to understand perfectly well when we use it?

But for Ivan Lanin, it is a simple cause worth fighting, as he wants Indonesians to appreciate their language in an era where most languages are swarmed with English technology-related terms.

Thus, in his everyday life, Ivan replaces "email" with surel (an acronym derived from surat elektronik or electronic mail), uses daring (dalam jaringan) instead of "online" while trying hard not to mix words from his native language and English.

Your comments:

There is no reason why Indonesia cannot use both languages (namely Bahasa Indonesia and English) in everyday business. Using English is not unpatriotic and does not devalue Bahasa Indonesia.

At the end of the day it boils down to economics: If Indonesia wants to be part of the Global IT outsourcing industry (such as India and Malaysia) and receive revenue, then perhaps English proficiency is necessary.

Hardjono
The United States

I appreciate Ivan Lanin's work. His translations might not be perfect, but he is on the right track to encourage people to be proud as Indonesian.

Vavai
Bekasi, West Java

Congratulations!

I like this move. Indonesian is a great language.

Fang Long
France

Gambling convicts escape before caning--Jan. 30, Online

Three men convicted of playing dominoes for money have escaped from jail moments before a public caning in devoutly Muslim Aceh province. Local Islamic police chief Muhammad Rusli said Saturday the men bolted during an unguarded bathroom visit minutes before the punishment for violating anti-gambling laws. The men were caught playing dominoes for Rp 1,000 rupiah (10 US cents) per game. They were to be caned six times each outside a mosque on Friday.

Your comments:

Why does the Indonesian government allow these ridiculous demonstrations of ignorance?

They talk about encouraging tourism and wanting to expand their presence in world affairs and here they are showing just how backward this part of the country really is.

It is otherwise a great country.

Sheldon Archer
Probolinggo

Church attackers not yet arrested--Jan. 26, p. 9

Three days after the attack of two Protestant churches and a pastor's home in Sibuhuan, Padang Lawas regency in North Sumatra, Friday's attackers have not been arrested by the police. South Tapanuli Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Subandriya said.

Your comments:

The President and government of RI should be accounted for letting go the attackers of worship houses in Indonesia. Please be responsible, not only for the sake of Indonesia, but also humanity.