Hi OzGuy1945!
I have a distinction among FReepers, at least those replying to you:
I served in the USAF in Woomera , Australia, Nurranga, to be specific, from 1982-84. I was glad to be a small part of the ANZUS Treaty!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joint_Defense_Facility_Nurrungar
I have a very special place in my heart for Australia and Aussies!
I do understand what you say about Indonesia’s version of Islam.
HOWEVER, under the rule of the Shah, so did Iran (Persia). Persia was always considered tolerant compared to other Islamic majority nations.
But look what happened with the fundamentalist Ayatollah Khomeini took over! He called it the Islamic Revolution, and even today, the shock troops of Iran are called the Revolutionary Guards.
Indonesia, I’m afraid, is only one Islamic revolution away from the same fate.
If the USA can’t protect our ALLY Australia from the Chinese, I doubt that the Indonesians can either.
I don't worry too much about a military invasion of Australia by Chinese.
I worry more about China becoming the dominant cultural influence in Australia.
China is developing immense economic power. They are buying considerable influence in Australia.
I openly heard discussions of whether Australia should consider an alliance with China instead of the U.S.
It appears to me that China is already buying up large amounts of Australia real estate, and driving up the price of real estate enormously.
I am curious if any Australians have heard or seen a tilt toward China in their politics.
Alas Babylon!
Thank you for your service.
My Dad served under (a long long way under) Douglas MacARTHUR IN 1945.
The dramatic change which has happened in Indonesia, 20 years ago, is away from authoritarianism towards democracy.