Here we are. In relatively comfortable conditions – although we also should always and everywhere watch out for authorities wanting to invade the privacy and freedom of their citizens. Yet, for us it’s still easy to be “brave” and speak our minds if we wish.
For bloggers in Indonesia times are not that great now. Maybe partly as a consequence of some half wits here in the Netherlands, who spoke their mind but should have thought twice before they did. Anyhow, Indonesians have to cope with UU ITE – the government’s guide for a decent and proper cyberspace. The officials aim at cleaning up cyberspace. No pornography or nasty criticism anymore. It implies serious punishments for naughty surfers and bloggers and a lot of off limits area’s in cyberspace – YouTube and MySpace included.
I should like to state solidarity with those over there. And start by saying I admire what “Journal by the Lightbeamers” (http://journal. marisaduma.net) published about this phenomenon here ( a really great essay on the subject), here and here and also this most effective entry, “Commander” by “Life like This, Avianto’s journal” ( http://home.avianto.com) which she refers to.
If I can be of any help?
Updates (1) : More sensible posts on this subject here (annaelissa) and here (pure thought). Update (2): Ah, things are mending now it seems. Update (3): Some point out the Indonesian government should not use “Pornography” or Wilders as decoys which divert attention from the real, the economic problems. Update (4): Apart from one minor stronghold, the artistic masterpiece “Fitna”, the Government has unconditionally surrendered. Marisa Duma, in her latest comment, reports on it. This article in The Sydney Morning Herald has even better news: the government offered apologies to the public.
Hi there! Thanks for your… err… condolences on the subject matter! And thanks for including my blog as well