Keep good faith in the current system<\/p>\n
This letter is about the happiest day I have experienced in
\nIndonesia since we moved here almost two years ago. Ever since
\nthen I have wanted to get my own driver's license (SIM) even
\nthough I didn't need it as my company provides a driver.<\/p>\n
I refused to get my own SIM because everyone warned me that it
\nwas impossible to get one without having to pay a bribe. Finally,
\ntwo weeks ago I dared to challenge the system; prepared to argue
\nand reject any requests for a bribe. I showed up, with a good
\nIndonesian friend to translate if needed, 30 minutes before the
\ngates opened.<\/p>\n
I was very surprised to see such a big complex, bigger than a
\nhospital, at least 50 times bigger than a typical DMV
\ndepartment of motor vehicles (DMV) station in the United States.
\nThe size of the building was intimidating. As we got out, one of
\nthe three parking lot guides offered to \"help\" me get a SIM but
\nwe kindly refused.<\/p>\n
To make the story short, we passed through six booths
\n(lokets), after about a record breaking 100 minutes and after
\npaying Rp 85,000 (approximately US$9) in official fees, we were
\nfinished!<\/p>\n
Not a single rupiah more was necessary. Oh what a wonderful
\nday it was. I immediately informed about 20 people, especially
\nthose who have no faith in the current system. Now this is proof
\nand there is room for faith and hope. Things will get better, I
\nam sure. Just don't give up and keep demanding transparency.<\/p>\n
AHMED AFZAL
\nJakarta<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/keep-good-faith-in-the-current-system-1447893297",
"image": ""
},
"sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
"sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com"
}