He has offered succour to the wealthiest Chinese tycoons. But his policies that restrict the use of the Chinese language and impose outright bans on celebrating Chinese festivals and on admitting Chinese to some universities and the civil service have left the rest feeling alienated and insecure. The Indonesian Chinese have never been made to feel welcome. If they leave, it will be Indonesia's loss. More and more people are making preparations to leave, but it is not clear what would turn the rising tide into a flood.
Social tensions are likely to swell as the economic crisis boosts job losses and inflation.
But politics will likely determine whether they stay or go. If not, just one spark could trigger an exodus. Many of my friends have already left on short-term visas, while others are just staying at home. They all have contingency plans. The number who have actually moved abroad as a result of the recent panic is tiny, and many of those who may want to leave may not be able to afford it.