The World and I

 I am currently in Indonesia and thereforewithout internet (except to post my blogs) I have to rely on the print mediaand the TV. In terms of the newspapers, it is interesting to get an “Indonesian”perspective on international news.

I was reading the Jakarta Post and found itto be very openly very pro Barack Obama, especially due to the fact that hespent part of his childhood in Indonesia, which they are very proud of.   The particular article I was readingwas entitled “Barack Obama “International President.”” It was referring to whatI have been blogging about previously – how internationally Barack Obama isalready treated like the American President.

However, this article had an interestingtwist on the issue. It said that the international fame might actually playagainst him. What the article argued is that by already quasi-confirming him asPresident, it may seem that we have taken away the decision from the Americansand thus feeling overridden by the world before they have even made their decision,the Americans may vote against him.

His international “superstar status” hasnot only been seen on his European Tour, but before the Olympics officiallystarted, the reporters on CNN International were speculating who would lightthe Olympic Flame at the opening ceremony. It does not necessarily have to besomeone from the host country and therefore numerous names were mentioned –including Obama. If this had happened, I agree with the journalist from theJakarta Post, that it may have worked against him. I think it would havediscredited his ability to be president since he would have increasingly beviewed as a celebrity superstar, a fine line he is currently walking.