Animal welfare in Indonesia

There are animal welfare groups all over the world -- Iran Thailand, etc., so why not here in Indonesia? Most people, regardless of race or religion, do not like to see the suffering of any creature. Much of the suffering is not deliberate but the result of people having insufficient knowledge of their animals.

Animal Welfare Education informs and educates the public on how to care for animals in ways that prevent unnecessary suffering.

I've heard it said that Indonesians don't care, but Indonesia has 210 million people; to suggest that all Indonesians think the same thing or don't care, is as ridiculous as it is when suggested of other nationalities.

Some will ask, why care for animals when there are far greater problems. To them I would say this: Indonesia's problems are varied and shared by other countries, many of whom have animal welfare groups.

Obviously many people will have other priorities. This is also true in other countries, but there are people here in Indonesia who care about animals and are concerned about the way some are kept or treated.

Cruelty, suffering, injustice in all their forms are wrong. If there are people dedicated to stopping these wrongdoings, then they should be commended and encouraged. Love and compassion know no limits.

Animal Welfare Education promotes kindness and thought. It teaches responsibility and an understanding of ourselves within our environment. It teaches "giving" rather than "taking" thus reinforcing the moral teachings of our families/religions.

I know there are many individuals working alone out there, but to effect real change, you must come together. Only then will you see the changes you desire. I have the skills to establish a group and the international contacts to point you in the right direction.

Please write to me if you are interested, to P.O. Box 612, Balikpapan, Kalimantan.

CHRIS NELLIST

Balikpapan, East Kalimantan