Don't let East Timor go

Don't let East Timor go

From Merdeka

Regarding the issue of East Timor, I do not want East Timor to separate from Indonesia because the separation of East Timor would have a negative impact on both the Indonesia people and the East Timorese themselves.

Is East Timor really ready to be independent, taking into account the fact that this province has been integrated into Indonesia for only 23 years? If East Timor was no longer part of Indonesia, I am afraid conflicts would arise between those who are against integration and those who want to remain Indonesia's 27th province. It is apparent that Fretilin, the anti-integration group, is very eager to separate East Timor from Indonesia. To allow East Timor to become an independent state would be a bad precedent. Other provinces might also begin to explore the possibility of separation.

ANASTHASIA HANDAYANI

Jakarta