On expats and 'Bahasa'

This letter is in regards to the recent letters written by expats complaining about the proposal by the government to require all foreigners to speak Bahasa Indonesia.

While I agree that the proposal is a little short-sighted, it points to a bigger issue. I know of many expats living here for many years none of whom can speak a lick of the Bahasa. It is appalling to me; and it is the practice of that same style of arrogance that nurtures hostility toward us as guests of this fine country.

Have a little respect for the people of this beautiful land and learn the language.

I'll bet that the two expats that wrote those letters of complaint recently only know enough to say nasi goreng or know how to tell their maids to clean their dirty underwear. Terima kasih

ANTHONY JACOBSON Medan, North Sumatra