Closed soccer match<\/p>\n
The soccer match between Indonesian Cabinet ministers and
\nmembers of the foreign diplomatic corps on March 9 will go down
\nin the history of the foreign diplomatic corps in Indonesia as a
\nunique event.<\/p>\n
Ever since Indonesia entered the UN in September 1950 and
\ngained international recognition, an event such as this has never
\ntaken place. Furthermore, a similar event could never take place
\nin any other country, less so in the Western world.<\/p>\n
A distinction of appraisal in terms of value system is self-
\nevident. For what has been appreciated in Indonesia for its worth
\nin terms of political motive and public relations, any similar
\nevent, if held in any other country, would perhaps be frowned
\nupon as a cheap publicity stunt.<\/p>\n
But in this country, the unique event can be perceived
\nfavorably; particularly when it was motivated by charity to
\ncollect funds for the benefit of flood victims.<\/p>\n
The Indonesian people will appreciate the initiative and
\nconsideration of the foreign diplomatic corps, led by the Belgian
\nAmbassador, as reported, to arrange the occasion, for the worth
\nof its noble cause.<\/p>\n
However, what will go on record, based on the news of the mass
\nmedia, was the report like that which appeared in Kompas of March
\n10.<\/p>\n
Judging from the security measures taken for the occasion in
\nSenayan soccer ground that day, the soccer game was not one that
\nwas open to the public, according to what was reported in Kompas.
\nThe event was an exclusive and closed affair.<\/p>\n
Given the charity motives, it is a pity that the public was
\nnot accorded the chance to witness the rare game and participate
\nin its enjoyment. The security reasons are understood, making the
\noccasion inaccessible to the general public.<\/p>\n
From the perspective of public relations and historical
\nappraisal, the inclusion of the people's sentiments of friendship
\nand amity, rather than their exclusion, will, in the long run, be
\nmore beneficial.<\/p>\n
S. SUHAEDI<\/p>\n
Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/closed-soccer-match-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }