Beware of 'new' terror

Beware of 'new' terror

The U.S. and Australian governments have warned international schools in Jakarta of possible attacks (by terrorists), following Australia's warning to its citizens to defer travel to Indonesia.

The result is that Jakarta International School, the Australian International School, and the British International School have been closed since Friday.

Geoffrey Leach, spokesman for the Australian Embassy in Jakarta, said that international schools affiliated with western countries could possibly become the target of terrorists.

With their travel advisories, the U.S. and Australian governments obviously gave the international world the impression that Indonesia is still unsafe.

Is security in the country a total failure?

It would be better for those who are in the country to remain alert, but they must be smart enough so as not to be fooled by any politicized issues on terrorism.

In this case, taking rumors or issues too seriously would be unwise, and we should not take in all threats, issues or rumors too eagerly.

Stepping up security at locations which are believed to be vulnerable to terrorist attacks, such as embassies and schools affiliated with western interests, is the best move.

-- Republika, Jakarta