Indigenous and ethnic Chinese gap

After the publication of Masli Arman's article Ethnic Chinese at fault for riots July 30, a deluge of responses have appeared. Many were strongly peppered with emotionally charged blasphemy. In light of this, I have been prompted to voice my opinion in order to attenuate the polemics on ethnic Chinese. I do not write for the defense of Mr. Arman and I do not go against the writers of letters to the editor. I don't know them and have no knowledge of their background. I simply wish to call on them to put an end to the polemics because it is a far cry from solving the problem.

Riots, looting and rapes have occurred. The victims were not only ethnic Chinese but also hundreds of indigenous people burned alive for nothing. We need not look for a scapegoat to be held responsible for the riots. The head of the administration responsible at that time has stepped down. Let's now, both indigenous and nonindigenous, introspect ourselves so that the May tragedy will not recur.

It should be noted that many of the indigenous people, who are mostly from medium to low economic groups, do view the Chinese- Indonesians, particularly the haves, in the way depicted by Mr. Arman, namely that they are arrogant and look down on indigenous people. They think that the ethnic Chinese value everything in social affairs, in terms of money, and settle every problem with money. Although this is legally right by the law in terms of the Eastern culture, it may be hurting. Indeed, some nonindigenous people are really good and can establish harmonious relationships with the indigenous people, particularly their peers.

So, let me appeal to Indonesian citizens of Chinese origin that you demonstrate that you are really good citizens and adhere to Pancasila. Show that you are not as the indigenous generally view you. Although you are rich, smart and well-off, please be considerate. Never show off your luxurious life as this will cause social envy on the part of the poor and the suffering. Be considerate about how they feel. You have the right to be treated in an equal way to the indigenous but then, you also have the moral obligation to help those who live in difficulty. You are not supposed only to donate but to help them to be independent in their businesses and ensure that they will not be very much left behind. The narrowing of the gap between the indigenous and the nonindigenous will change the view that the former have of the latter.

MULYARJO

Surabaya