In praise of TNI<\/p>\n
From Pelita<\/p>\n
Unfavorable reports about the Indonesian Military (TNI)
\ncontinue to make the daily rounds. Incidents in Aceh, West
\nKalimantan, East Timor, Maluku and Irian Jaya are always
\nconnected with the performance of TNI members. Some people have
\neven said that gossip about TNI spreads from Sabang to Merauke,
\nfrom the westernmost to the easternmost end of the country.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, generally only the shortcomings and the
\nweaknesses of TNI are put under the spotlight while the
\nmilitary's positive side is overlooked. In fact, it is common
\nknowledge that TNI has done more good things than bad ones. If
\none is to be fair, objective and clear in viewing TNI, one may be
\nin for a surprise.<\/p>\n
In each area where there is turmoil, members of TNI must try
\nto keep the security of the area under control to ensure that the
\nwelfare of the local people will not be disrupted. Members of TNI
\nassigned in these areas aim at a single purpose only, to restore
\nsecurity in the areas. Some of them have even sacrificed their
\nlives for the sake of the locals.<\/p>\n
The recent barbaric murder of six marines in Aceh may serve as
\na good example. The marines were killed while they were praying.
\nThey lost their lives not in a face-to-face fight against the
\nenemy, but in their dedication to God. It is evidence that
\nmembers of TNI will resort to violence only for self-defense, and
\nnot out of a desire to kill their enemies. They have resorted to
\nviolence only for the sake of a peaceful life for the locals.<\/p>\n
They are aware that their present enemies are their own
\nbrothers, from the same nation and the same motherland. TNI has
\nresorted to a persuasive approach because it is facing its own
\ncountrymen with different opinions. Unfortunately, certain armed
\ngangs (read the Free Aceh Movement\/GAM) prefer to settle problems
\nby resorting to arms. Therefore, the victims are TNI members.
\nUnfortunately, although some TNI members have lost their lives,
\nmany parties prefer to remain quiet. However, if the armed rebels
\nare killed, TNI is accused of violating human rights and it is
\npublicized worldwide. TNI has indeed been unfairly treated.<\/p>\n
One gets the impression that our concern for human rights does
\nnot apply to TNI. Nevertheless, despite this unfair treatment,
\nTNI remains cool-headed and under control. It never sets out to
\ntake revenge. Those members of TNI who have lost their lives will
\nbe smiling if all types of violence are stopped and the people
\nreturn to leading a peaceful life. They have lost their lives for
\nthe sake of the Indonesian nation and state. Goodbye my marines.
\nMay you bring an end to the suffering of the Indonesian people.
\nPeace on you in the hereafter.<\/p>\n
SUDARSO<\/p>\n
Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/in-praise-of-tni-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }