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