A call for cooperation

A call for cooperation

I have enjoyed reading the wide views on colonialism recently
expressed by Mr. Richardson, Mr. de Kort, Mr. de Jong, and lately
Ms. Nanny Djali. The degree of emotion raised by this debate
among all the writers indicates that strong feelings about this
topic still exist, nearly half a century after its apparent end
in Indonesia. This debate will probably continue among the
writers and within the minds of reader without any respite, as
has happened with similar other debates (e.g. the decision to ban
Schindler's List) until some tired editor at The Jakarta Post
decides enough is enough, and no longer accepts letters on the
subject.

I wish to preempt this eventual action by posing some
interesting questions to these writers and other readers: Knowing
what we do from our past experience with colonialism, what have
we learned to guide our present course of development? Has
colonialism ended with the departure of the Dutch, or has it
merely assumed new forms?

Ms. Nanny was quite correct when she wrote "Let's all look to
the future, work together for a better world." Perhaps all of
these writers should unite in purpose, first to describe the
dynamics of neo-colonialism, and then make some corrective
suggestions. For example, Ms. Nanny's knowledge of the "high
culture" found in the past kingdoms can be used to explain the
present, oftentimes exploitive and chauvinistic relationship
between Java and the outer islands.

Her experience of injustices faced at the hands of the old
Dutchmen might be channeled to identify those who now fill this
role as orang Belanda baru (new Dutchmen).

Just as importantly, Mr. de Kort's knowledge of the role
played by international trade in development might be used to
trace the way transitional corporations are turning the world
into a frontier for cheap labor and raw materials, all the while
promising future developmental bliss by the invisible hand of
open markets. Every time a new corporate headquarters rears its
terrible glass and steel brow against the Jakarta skyline, how
many ruined forests, seas, and human lives result?

Once the dynamics of neo-colonialism have been modeled by our
able team of thinkers, they might shine the light of wisdom
forward for us. Mr. Richardson, our resident expert on morally
correct colonialism, could give counsel to the powerful so that
their erroneous ways might be mended. But for now, writers,
enough seething emotion over the past. We wish to hear more of
how you might tackle the challenges of the present, and eagerly
await your letters.

STEPHEN KRECIK

Jakarta