'Krismon' and celebrations

'Krismon' and celebrations

The "By the Way" of Oct. 25 entitled "Is Indonesia really
suffering from 'krismon'", written by a conservative person by
nature, is good to read. The author, who I understand is an
Indian expatriate, advises the public "to show empathy and
understanding to our less fortunate citizens", which is, of
course, fine advice. But does he practice what he advises? The
answer is no because within just one week after the article was
published, the author, along with other Indians, made two grand
celebrations in Jakarta, which I came to know about from Indian
friends. It is always easier to advise your neighbor but very
hard to practice it yourself or to make your own people practice
your advice.

These days, we get lot of suggestions, advice and unworkable
ideals from some expats, including one about social security
schemes introduced some time ago. When their income increases by
600 percent quite unexpectedly, while other people lose their
jobs, or their income is reduced to half, it is only natural that
they get funny ideas to throw and flaunt around.

I would like to advise expatriate professionals to just
quietly enjoy their unexpected windfall in Indonesia without
inviting too much public attention.

UMADI

Jakarta