I write in reference to Farah Andrews' article Prince Harry talks the dark side of social media and games like Fortnite (April 7). It is heartening to see Prince Harry address the issue of mental health, particularly in relation to gaming. This addiction is now classified as a mental disorder. Online multiplayer games are especially addictive as they never seem to end. Gamers may also experience eye fatigue, headaches, low appetite and general exhaustion, if they stare at their screens for too long. As parents, we absolutely must put our foot down where excessive gaming is concerned. Early intervention can develop a healthier habit of regulated online game use.
Seema Anjum, UAE
The Indonesian elections are a referendum on Widodo
I write in reference to Nicky Harley's article Indonesia election: Voting begins in the world's biggest single-day polls (April 17). On Wednesday, Indonesia held elections for its president, legislature, and hundreds of regional governments. The elections are not only a referendum on the first term of President Joko Widodo, they are also an opportunity for hundreds of millions of citizens in the world's fourth most populous democracy to participate in the political process. Amidst increasing concerns that the current government has clamped down on freedom of expression, the elections are a reminder that Indonesians still have a direct say in the future of their country.
Tom Pepinsky, USA
Movie stars and politicians have much in common
I write to you in reference to Vishwas Kulkarni's article When movie stars become politicians – Bollywood's tryst with the Indian election (April 16). Not only has Bollywood dominated Indian politics for decades, I believe the same can be said about Hollywood's influence in the US. Today, politics attracts more and more professionals that seek fame and money, which explains why actors and politicians have so much in common.
In recent history, Bihar’s popular actor-turned-politician Shot Gun Shatrughan Sinha left his old party, the BJP, after three decades, and joined Congress. The whole affair is just like the plot of a movie.
K Ragavan, Bengaluru
Saudi Arabia is on the right path for gender equality
I write to you in reference to Mina Aldroubi's article Saudi Princess Reema bint Bandar sworn in as Kingdom's ambassador to Washington (April 16). Congratulations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its very first female ambassador. I believe this is a powerful gesture towards gender equality in the kingdom.
Llagas Totay, Kuwait
