Insulting statement

A controversial statement made by State Minister of Food and Horticulture A.M. Saefuddin concerning Megawati was, in my opinion, really an act of bigotry. I truly can't understand how such a high-ranking official as educated as himself could have made such an insensitive statement to a group of journalists. Doesn't he know that when he speaks to journalists such an outrageous statement would definitely be printed and blown up? Doesn't he know, or is he such an ignorant person, that Megawati is a Moslem, as all we ordinary citizens know.

I am not a religious person, not a Hindu or even a Balinese. However, I can understand how the Balinese feel about his insulting comment. Religion is an extremely sensitive issue, especially in this country, where there is countless evidence of crimes related to religious differences.

As we all know, Bali is a significant place in terms of its contribution to the country's economy and many other aspects. I have spent a quarter of my life in Australia, and from my experience, although Bali is only a small part of the country, in terms of popularity, Bali is much more popular compared to, say, Jakarta or other Indonesian big cities. In fact, Australians are more interested in news about Bali than about the rest of Indonesia.

But there is a limit to even a joke. The issue is not whether it was just a statement made jokingly but whether he believes or means what he said, which, I am sorry to say, I believe he does. Can we all imagine our great country, with a population of 202 million, being led by a leader of his quality?

Saefuddin should have known what he said was wrong, and he has apologized. I respect that. However, it would be even better if for once he "humbled" himself by retracting his comments and makes an open apology to all Hindus, as demanded.

The Balinese strikes and protests demanding that he step down should be an important lesson to him. I just hope that such a thing never happens again.

I also understand President Habibie's reluctance to fire him, as this might cause more waves of protest from his supporters, not to mention the "friendship" factor. But if he makes another insulting remark, I don't see why the President and other Indonesians should tolerate him any more.

To State Minister Saefuddin: Do you know the shame we Indonesians living in other countries have to face, explaining to our foreign friends who have misunderstood that Indonesia's majority Moslem population as being racist because of your insensitive comments?

My advice to you, Sir, is that if you don't have anything better to say just keep quiet. Given the not-so-good reputation of Indonesia worldwide at this time, your insensitive statements did nothing but worsen the image of Indonesia worldwide.

Please be a bit more considerate before you say anything, especially when you talk to journalists. Really, we don't need your careless comments on something that is not your business. You had better stick to your job and what you need to do to help our country. And I bet with all I've got, you would do this country more good than harm by doing so.

HENRY CAHYADI

Jakarta