Chinese Puzzle

The case - in the form of a letter from an Indonesian ethnic Chinese (currently exiled in Singapore) to his brother - gives a sense of what did happen in the spring of 1998 in Indonesia. It aims at discussing the problems faced by Chinese entrepreneurs and traders and their families in Indonesia, at a time of strong anti-Chinese feelings and behavior. It is an excellent instrument to draw the attention on the problems faced today by Indonesian Chinese entrepreneurs, in their own country. What should they do? What can they do?

In a course which explores joint ventures and partnerships in Asia, and which gives examples of partnerships with Chinese entrepreneurs, this case gives a vivid illustration of the problems faced by the ethnic Chinese community in Indonesia. It makes it possible to discuss the consequences of the departure of the Chinese business community, with its hollowing out consequences on the country. It also generates a discussion on the plight of the Chinese entrepreneur in some countries of the region.