Be more sensitive

Be more sensitive

It is really sad to see how The Jakarta Post, an Indonesian
daily, in a way doesn't show tolerance to our fellow Moslem
readers. It is the way you use the term 'Moslem Bandits' and
'Moslem Rebels', which appear on your report taken from AFP
concerning the Philippines' Moro rebellion (June 13 and 14,
1994).

Of course you can't just change the content of a report or
article taken from outside sources, but don't you think you could
edit the term used by the Western (press) society and modify it
into a more fair and tolerant -- or should I say it more
'Pancasilais' -- term depicting those Filipino rebels? Why can't
we use the term of 'Moro Rebels,' so we won't hurt any religious
followers' feeling. We don't use the term Catholic or Christian
Terrorists/Bandits for the Irish Republic Army nor the Bosnian
Serb Army, do we?

Without jeopardizing the freedom of the press and its
objectivity, The Jakarta Post should be more sensitive, critical
and tactful in presenting the information. That, of course, is if
The Jakarta Post, still wants to maintain its independent, non-
affiliated, fair and liberal image. Modifying a foreign term into
a more acceptable and respectful one by the Indonesians is indeed
a simple thing to do, but believe me that in return The Jakarta
Post will gain a greater respect and admiration from your readers
and the public in general.

A. KERMAPUTRA

Jakarta