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