Indonesia's visa policy

Regarding your article on page 13 of March 5: New slogan hoped to boost Indonesian tourist sector, the Indonesian government's new policy of allowing only 30 days for visa-on-entry visitors (instead of the previous 60 days) is, I believe, misjudged and economically detrimental for two reasons. First, thirty days is nowhere near enough time to experience even a fraction of your amazing and extensive country. I, as well as other visitors I have spoken to, would certainly stay for sixty days if allowed.

But more importantly is the loss of significant foreign exchange earnings. According to the figures in your article, last years's foreign tourist earnings were some US$3.33 billion from some three million visitors. Hence, each visitor spent on average around $1,000 a visit. But if the government is so intent on only allowing a stay of 30 days, then surely these earnings will be slashed in half -- even though the number of visitors might remain the same, as the government is suggesting.

I am sure that a loss of over $1 billion of foreign exchange would be a significant loss to your reserves, and I am not surprised that so many of the Indonesian hoteliers and tour operators are unhappy with the new visa policy.

I would suggest that the government review this policy carefully before it causes even more damage to the economy.

JOHN LARNER, Singaraja, Bali