Xenophobia thicker than humanity

Xenophobia thicker than humanity

On Wednesday morning, a major radio station in Jakarta invited
its listeners to comment on the Indonesian Military's (TNI)
decision to restrict the movements of international aid workers
and foreign military personnel while in Aceh.

The answers given by the listeners have likely upset the
government, especially the TNI's top brass, because most
listeners were not only opposed to the TNI's decision, but also
questioned the real motives of the TNI. Such a reaction reflects
the high suspicion that remains toward the military, who for
decades were a tool of oppression.

"We should not be paranoid about the foreigners, who are very
sincere in helping people in Aceh," one listener from Central
Jakarta said.

It is obviously a good move by the TNI Chief Gen. Endriartono
Sutarto to say he wants to ensure the safety of some 2,000
foreign civilians, who are now working on the humanitarian
mission in the tsunami-devastated province.

As a host, Indonesia is responsible for the security and
protection of the humanitarian workers. Indonesia could not have
handled this unprecedented disaster on its own. The nation needs
international assistance.

Although it seems restrictive, the general's decision to
require the volunteers to be escorted by TNI soldiers during
trips outside of Banda Aceh actually makes sense because there is
still a war going on. With seemingly little fear of the many
risks inherent, the volunteers have come here out of a strong
sense of compassion for the suffering victims and have been
motivated to help the Acehnese build a totally new life.

Foreign military ships and planes are also required to have
military liaison officers accompany them and get clearance from
the TNI for all movements. Meanwhile, the government has
indicated that the foreign presence would not last more than
three months.

But, as reflected in the radio talk show, many people doubt
that the restrictive measures are merely aimed at protecting the
foreign volunteers.

TNI generals have admitted they would not have enough
resources to handle the relief and rehabilitation alone, and thus
need the foreign help.

So, why then did Gen. Endriartono make such a controversial
decision, while thousands of guests are now in Aceh to help us?
Most of them likely realize the dangers during their humanitarian
mission, but still they have come. Why? Because of a sense of
humanity; that is the only answer for their readiness to take a
risk. A risk that may be in the form of armed gunmen, another
earthquake aftershock or malaria.

We should thank the hard-working guests because without their
help, the suffering of the victims of the natural disaster would
be much worse.

Despite the radio listeners responses, it has become all too
evident from local media reports that there is a growing feeling
of xenophobia here, at least in certain parts of society. We
accept the foreigners' relief, but at the same time we are
suspicious of them and do not appreciate what they have done.
From television reports, it has become abundantly clear that the
Acehnese have welcomed the foreigners, including American
soldiers. People who live far away from these appreciative
victims still question the foreign presence, while for victims,
they are saviors.

Perhaps it is ridiculous to say that such behavior also proves
that many of us have no compassion for our brothers and sisters
in Aceh, not just when they were oppressed by the government, but
even now as they struggle to survive amidst such a horrible
calamity. Many Indonesians are very firm in their opinion that
the government must do everything possible to ensure the
integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia
(NKRI), therefore, they also feel that any rebellious acts in
Aceh must be harshly punished to ensure that the soil of that
province remains part of the nation state.

Of course, we also hope the foreign guests realize that they
are guests in Aceh, regardless of how much we need their help.
Guests are expected to adapt to the conditions of their hosts.

We do hope that the negative statements, xenophobia and a lack
of appreciation shown by some members of society, will not
discourage our Samaritan friends. We also hope they realize that
the nation needs and truly appreciates their help.