Fear drives Chinese-Indonesian exodus

Thousands of Indonesians, particularly those of Chinese origin, are leaving the country fearing violence related to the coming general election. Political analyst J Soedjati Djiwandono gives his own views on the exodus.

JAKARTA (JP): Some political figures have expressed regrets over the rush overseas of Indonesians, particularly those of Chinese origin, apparently in anticipation of violence related to the coming general election.

Indeed, there is nothing new about it. It began soon after the riots of May 1998, when many Chinese women became victims of rape and many of the shops ransacked and burned down were those owned by Chinese-Indonesians. The phenomenon seems to have continued since then whenever there are rumors about possible violence related to certain important dates or occasions.

While one woman politician recognized their right to do so, she objected to their taking a lot of money with them, which she said could harm the country's economy.

To my mind, it would be sheer stupidity for them not to do so. Fears that this might harm the nation's economy are exaggerated. Although it may have some kind of effect, most probably only temporarily, whose fault is it?

To call their actions deplorable and dishonorable is sheer callousness. Worst still are accusations that they have betrayed the struggle of the nation.

The exodus seems to have been received by some quarters with glee: People have been saying it will allow the indigenous population to substitute for them, and fill the gap left in the economy.

For one thing, this view is not only callous, but immoral. For another, it is unrealistic: Given their major role in the goods distribution chain, Chinese-Indonesian businessmen cannot possibly be replaced within a short period of time. How can the skills, the experience, networking and trust that have been handed down from generation to generation of Chinese-Indonesians over decades, and sometimes centuries, be substituted overnight?

Those who criticize the exodus and those who react with selfish joy simply do not understand what fear means, particularly to minority groups living in this country. Being small in number, minority groups are vulnerable. They are subject to prejudice and persecution, and all kinds of injustices. And they are often victims of violence.

Are these minority groups, particularly the Chinese- Indonesians and the Christians, all rich and prosperous? Certainly not. Some, yes. Perhaps many of them.

But it seems to be a part of their mentality, conscious or otherwise, and recognized by others or not, that because of the discrimination they face in society and the many injustice they suffer, they must try to be better than average just to be recognized as equals. And many succeed in their efforts, be it in business, sports, academia or other fields.

It may be true that this success has made some Chinese- Indonesians somewhat arrogant, especially those colluding with the power holders.

But to generalize is wrong, the majority of ethnic Chinese cannot be described in this way. However, such a phenomenon has created a feeling of jealousy, inferiority, prejudice and even hatred on the part of many people.

I tend to believe that not only would many more Chinese- Indonesians, but also many indigenous Indonesians, if they had the means, would stay away from this country during periods when violence is expected. I am sure that most, if not all, of those who do go away, will return home. For these people, though not necessarily by choice, this country is the only home they know.

However, it is one's basic human right, as provided by Article 3 of The International Bill of Human Rights, to which Indonesia is a signatory, that "Everyone has the right to life, liberty and the security of person". And Article 13, paragraph two, provides that "Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country".

Those in power who say that security at home is guaranteed -- simply by instruction and determination -- turn a blind eye to the reality standing plainly in front of them.

The fact is that they have proved incapable of providing protection and security for the people, especially those who feel the most vulnerable, such as the minority groups in this country.

One cannot be blamed for feeling fear, real fear, and for good reasons. And being afraid has absolutely nothing to do with nationalism or patriotism, except for those enjoying their power, while not recognizing their own ignorance and lack of compassion for their fellow human beings.