Give credit where credit's due.

Give credit where credit's due.

The Australian government may have good reason to caution it's
citizens about travel in this new world struck by terror, given
events as devastating as the "Bali Bomb" incident.

However it is a shame that individuals, whom I thought would
surely have the democratic right to freedom of choice, appear to
be "warned" and even penalized for doing just that.

I refer to the six Australian students who chose to remain at
their University in Yogyakarta (The Jakarta Post, Nov. 12)

I fail to see any connection or reason for cutting off a
student's allowance and forfeiting credit points because of their
decision to stay in Indonesia. What exactly is the Australian
government implying here? It would appear that these young adults
are being punished for their opinions.

Terrorism is known as such because of it's irrational unknown
nature. Terrorism is designed to spread hate through fear and
confusion. It effects all of us regardless of religious faith or
nationality. To combat terrorism we need to work together,
appreciate one another's differences and seek an understanding of
the facts.

Barker, Fisher and Meckelburg are acting on such noble and
optimistic terms. It is important that Australia maintains good
relations with Indonesia. The government here obviously needs all
the help it can get. As a neighboring country it would be wise to
support and assist Indonesia rather than be impatient or critical
of it's short comings.

I believe Barker, Fisher and Meckelburg are on the right
track. I, for one Australian, are happy to have them as
ambassadors to a brighter future. Their positive decision making
in light of all the recent gloom and panic should be commended,
not punished.

ANDI BENSON, Jakarta