Teguh Ostenrik

I don't know if Teguh Ostenrik's Dutch or German is good or not, because I don't speak either language (Letters, May 28). However, I know that he declined to be interviewed in English by an Indonesian journalist producing an English language news feature because he didn't feel confident enough about his English. Anyway, who cares if he can or cannot speak Dutch, German or English?

I am not sure what the point of the attack on Teguh's language capabilities was, but it seemed personal and subjective. I am also a friend of Teguh, but my subjective views about his art usually do not work to his favor. The appreciation of art works in a personal way, and the best reviews are usually subjective.

Teguh's writings in Indonesian are, more often than not, grammatically poor. However, although I often disagree with his writings, they are always interesting and supported with sound ideas. Unfortunately, Kompas, the daily to which he usually contributes, edits his articles poorly.

Perhaps the Post should start publishing well-edited versions of Teguh Ostenrik's writings, so its readers can judge whether they are worthy or not.

AMIR SIDHARTA

South Jakarta