Angered by Indonesia's lack of sensitivity, Umno Youth leader Khairy Jamaluddin said that Indonesia should cease and desist from accusing Malaysia of "stealing their heritage".

"Instead they should review and analyse the history of this region," said Khairy, "Both countries share similar cultures and heritage which greatly influenced its people through the centuries.

"The negative and aggressive nationalistic outbursts by certain Indonesian quarters and their leaders would only incite more anger and hatred between the two countries," he said in his blog.

A misunderstanding between the two countries arose as a result of a Discovery Channel trailer on Malaysia, which depicted a popular Balinese dance as having originated from Malaysia.

NONE "I'm not disputing the origins of the Pendet dance, but I'm questioning if it is possible to claim a cultural aspect as 100 percent Indonesian or 100 percent Malaysian when inter-cultural exchanges has taken place for so long," said Khairy ( left ).

Denying Malaysia's involvement in the production of the trailer, he said that the burning of the Jalur Gemilang in protest at a renowned Yogyakarta University is a blatant disrespect to Malaysia

Although issues regarding Indonesian maids, Ambalat, Manohara and now, the "Pendet" dance, has been bug in Malaysia-Indonesia ties, Khairy said it was imperative to resolve the issue as the economic well-being of both countries is at stake.

"Work opportunities and business dealings are economic drivers and Malaysia would not see any growth without cooperation among neighbouring countries. Regional co-operation is vital to both countries," he said

Although the Malaysian government has verified this unintentional mistake to calm the already tense situation, anger and hatred is still simmering among Indonesians.

The anti-Malaysia sentiments displayed by a few cannot be construed to represent the majority of Indonesians, said Khairy.

Great loss to both countries

He also hoped it would not sow the seeds of resentment among Malaysians towards Indonesia as it would jeopardise their relationship.

"It would be a great loss to both countries and might provoke strong reaction from us," he said.

He added that Malaysia is willing to put an end to this whole episode but some Indonesians seem bent on continuing to bear a grudge.

NONE As a case in point, Khairy said that Indonesian computer geeks had hacked into Malaysian websites during the 52nd Independence day celebration, and insulted the country by saying that it's a ‘thieves' country in online forums.

Aggressive demonstrations by Indonesian students at Malaysian embassies has also led to protests against Malaysian students in the campus of Yogyakarta's Universitas Gadjah Mada

He reminded Indonesians that Malaysia is also sensitive to such matters and will be upset upon seeing and hearing their country mocked, and having the national flag burned.

"We Malaysians also realise that there are many things to be learnt and understood with regards to Indonesian sensitivities," he said.

Urging Indonesian youth leaders to speak out to end this conflict, Khairy said both sides should be rational and play a responsible role to ensure it would not worsen the situation.