'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