Indonesians must have confidence

I am a foreigner and have lived here for two and a half years with my family. I want to convey to all Indonesians that you have a really beautiful country and you are indeed a beautiful people. You have a wide diversity of culture that is colorful and meaningful. Since childhood you were taught how to be patient, caring and concerned for others. You have known hardship and in a time of crisis you know how to handle the bad times as well as the good times. And you had survived. Don't let the rupiah downturn dampen your spirit for living!

I have observed and witnessed how you have reacted during this economic crisis. Rice, sugar, cooking oil, etc., have been bought with such prices as never seen before. Why?

During my stay here, I traveled 15 days on the road in a Kijang car just to see your beautiful country -- mountains, valleys and all of it. I traveled with my family across the whole length of Java, from Jakarta right through to Surabaya, down to Yogyakarta, Solo, Malang, Batu and right back to Jakarta. We have seen miles and miles of rice fields. Your land is so blessed with natural resources and scenic landscapes. Even if your rupiah dropped into oblivion, I want you to know one thing: God has already taken care of you! You can still survive.

You should be more confident and not panic. If you cannot trust anyone in the world anymore, trust in almighty God. He will not fail you. It is fear that leads you to panic and possible riots too. It is fear that could destroy you. Don't allow fear to creep into your hearts and minds. Turn to God and trust in Him!

Everyone knows that hard times are here. This is the time, the right time to show that you care -- the right time to share with one another, to take care of the poor and needy. Now is the time when action speaks louder than words. You have gone through many bad times before and this time you will pull through it again. Many foreigners, including myself, have confidence in you!

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