Indonesians only

Indonesians only

I am writing to express a feeling I believe many Indonesians
share. I am an Indonesian who has spent 20 years abroad. I came
back to Indonesia seven years ago with a bit of cultural shock,
but undeniable joy in returning to my homeland.

I am proud of being an Indonesian and have never been ashamed
of saying I am an Indonesian wherever I have been. Until today.

I am sorry to let you know that the following incident
embarrassed me because of my nationality.

After checking in at an airline counter, I approached the
immigration desk. Noticing several lines I naturally joined the
one under the sign "Indonesian". In front of me was a Korean. I
politely informed him that the line was for Indonesians and that
he should go to the next counter.

He confidently claimed there was no difference and would line
up at any counter he wished. An Immigration officer overheard our
conversation and said he was right. It made no difference.

I then questioned the officer about the purpose of the
"Indonesian" sign. He just shook his head.

When I pressed him whether it was to prioritize and facilitate
Indonesian passport holders in an effort to be more efficient, he
answered that "Indonesians take a lot longer than a foreigner. We
have to cope with the fiscal and they don't." We are questioned
where the fiscal was paid (even though it is clearly stated if we
have paid), and they don't.

I saw the Korean gentleman proudly place his passport into his
pocket and disappear into the Duty Free shop. I had to cope with
the officer asking me which bank, which branch and when I paid my
fiscal.

I travel over 250,000 kilometers a year and hold permanent
residence status in other countries. I only see foreign residents
being questioned, or having to cope with lengthy form filling
procedures and lines. Citizen and permanent residents are given
priority in other nations to avoid lengthy queues.

I must admit there are probably procedures the immigration
officers are forced to follow, and I am sure they try to minimize
inconveniences. But what is the point of setting up a
"Indonesian" counter if anyone can use it? It is like allowing
passengers through the "Air Crew" gate.

JODY DHARMAWAN
Jakarta