Demeaning attitude

I am writing in response to Pak Gandhi Sukardi's letter of Sept. 26, 2000, titled More people less champions. I find his remark, "Indonesians can run faster, jump higher and snatch more successfully than anyone else -- provided the police are chasing after them", insensitive and insulting.

I have lived in Indonesia over eight years and have read letters by Pak Gandhi on numerous occasions. At times I have agreed with his thoughts and at other times disagreed but I have never felt that he held this kind of attitude toward his own people until today. I am disappointed and saddened by his opinion.

Perhaps I take this remark personally, in that my husband's family is Indonesian and my four young children share this wonderful heritage. Over the years I have had the opportunity and distinct pleasure to know and become dear friends with many Indonesians. It gives me an "unpleasantly sad feeling" to hear Pak Gandhi refer to them in such demeaning terms. I sincerely hope that this was just a tasteless attempt at humor.

JILLIAH ARDIE

Chairman of the Board

International Community

Activities Center

Jakarta