Can Indonesia become our most important ally?

The fact is that our Four Corners television documentary chose one small abattoir out of many because it happened to be run by poor types and, unjustly, made it look like a nationwide practice.

We not only offended the Indonesians - we inflicted unnecessary damage upon ourselves, particularly by causing hundreds of aboriginal stockmen in Northern Australia to lose their jobs and go on the dole when the cattle trade ceased and was then only party restored.

If we are serious in our quest to be a good neighbour to Indonesia, we need to rapidly upgrade the study of their language in our schools and universities, as well as enhancing our understanding of their culture.

I am told that Indonesian is one of the easiest languages for an English-speaking person to learn, so I intend to do some initial study of it to see if I can get into its basics in my old age. The exercise will help to keep my brain alive.

At least some reading of their history will get me started on getting a sense of the fabric of their national life, so I have just bought a book on the life of Sukarno, their first President. This is giving me an idea of where they began as a nation, and I can move from there in seeking to appreciate what will be the best way to further develop a valued partnership of good neighbours.

It seems to me that a solid relationship could do great things for both nations as we work together to create a significant role in shaping the Asian century and prospering as a result.