Luring overseas retirees

It was interesting to read your Aug. 26 article Southeast Asia lures stock market victims with cheap lifestyles.

Wouldn't it also be a wise gesture for the Indonesian government to take a clue from the success of these programs in Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines, in adopting a similar program to lure overseas retirees to this beautiful country to enjoy the great and cheap golf, beaches, fishing, housing, food, and other numerous recreational activities?

There are many potential economic benefits to be derived from such a program, not only for the Indonesian government, but for the local citizenry as well. Many of my foreign friends here as well as myself want to stay on and continue living in Indonesia when retirement arrives in a few years, but so far there is no special program being offered here by the government to make a long stay possible.

If the government ever does decide to adopt such a program, an appropriate name should also be considered for this special group of foreign retirees in Indonesia. "Senior Bule"? "Seasoned Bule Citizens"? Any other suggestions?

RAYMOND YELLAND, Surabaya