Saw this news about two Indonesians from Bali testing positive for leprosy while working in Romania. According to the article, their mother in Bali is already being treated and is stable, and they’re expected to return home for care.
What really bothered me wasn’t the case itself, but the comments and reactions. A lot of Europeans in the replies were talking about Indonesians like they’re medieval or uncivilized. Felt gross to read. Leprosy still exists in many parts of the world and this was handled through proper medical channels, but the stereotypes came out fast.
Kind of a reminder that Indonesia’s image in parts of Europe is still pretty rough, even in 2025.
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