On Dutch treat

On Dutch treat

I refer to the article Dutch treat: Who pays for the pain?
(The Jakarta Post, Aug. 8).

Historical facts in many countries are whitewashed or
described in a subjective and improper way but as far as the
independence of Indonesia is concerned the facts are known among
historians and are indisputable: Aug. 17 is celebrated by the
Indonesians as their Independence Date, and Dec. 27, 1949, is
regarded by the Dutch as the date of the transfer of sovereignty.
Every Dutchman of stature is aware of these dates and these facts
should have been made clear.

To the question, "So what notable legacy did we get from
colonialism?" I firmly believe, and with me many Indonesians of
stature of my age (practically all), who are dying out, that you
are underestimating the values of the past. I would recommend you
to delve into this question deeper. It is substantially more than
language and law.

To begin with, take Indonesia's rich natural resources. I have
been, so to say, all over the world. Indonesia is potentially one
of the richest countries in the world as far as resources are
concerned. The Dutch saw this potential and made an all-out
effort to exploit them with great success, which also benefited
its former colony. There is no reason why Indonesia shouldn't
follow the same path.

I sense a grudge against the Dutch in your article. You
certainly have a point and I will not deny arguments you may
have, although not specifically mentioned. Delving into history a
bit deeper and trying to see things in the past with the
spectacles of the time in which they happened, and studying
world history, may alleviate your grudge.

International slavery in the 17th century up to the end of the
19th century (about 15 million victims), practically all present
major developing countries were involved, mass exploitation of
labor in the U.S. and in Europe more than 100 years ago (Karl
Marx), segregation policies in South Africa, colonialism by west
European countries in Asia, Africa and elsewhere.

There are examples in our world's history that show that not
only in your country deplorable things happened in the past. One
should keep this well in mind when judging events in former
times. In addition, don't forget, every country has its dark
historical pages, Indonesia included.

Anyway, please be assured that I am writing all this solely in
the hope to reach a better mutual understanding. Your comments
would be highly appreciated.

PIETER ROELOFFS, Medan, North Sumatra