On the E. Timor issue

I greatly appreciated Mr. Tony Jennings' letter on East Timor and development (Jan. 22, 1997). Not many foreigners, especially westerners, are willing to understand the real position of Indonesia on the East Timor issue. They seem to close their eyes on the effort Indonesian authorities have made in the last 20 years to develop the province.

My view may be wrong, but I sense the western world seems to be prejudiced towards Indonesia. This is perhaps because of the unfavorable reputation Indonesia has obtained as a result of the western media's exposure of corruption and human rights violations in the country.

The world should be more realistic and unbiased to separate the tarnished image of Indonesia from the East Timor issue itself. The fact is East Timor was left in chaos and poverty when Portugal abandoned it. They had achieved little for the region in over three hundred years. Therefore, Portugal has no right to discredit Indonesia. As for Ramos Horta who has been campaigning for independence, I wonder what sacrifices he has made for the East Timor people. He seems to enjoy talking on what the western media would like to hear.

In my opinion, the East Timor issue is certainly a difficult task for Indonesia to work on. I believe, however, that Indonesia is on the right path to carry on its commitment to develop the region. I also believe that by improving our image on the whole, we shall win the hearts of the world.

JENNY LAURITZ KHOENG

Jakarta