Regional autonomy no threat to nation<\/p>\n
The provision of greater regional autonomy, which begins later
\nthis month, may have different meanings for different people. But
\nit would not be correct to view the process of strengthening
\nregional administrations as a threat to the nation state. The
\nreason is that the autonomy being conferred does not include
\ncontrol over religious affairs, information or the basic
\n\"archipelagic\" concept which ensures the unity of the nation.<\/p>\n
The government has long been aware that there is a need for
\nmore autonomy at the regional level of administration. A failure
\nto address this need would result in more serious consequences in
\nthe future.<\/p>\n
It is a fact that the people of the regions have always lodged
\ntheir complaints with the House of Representatives in Jakarta,
\nrather than with their local administrations. This has given the
\nimpression that only the central government is capable of
\nhandling their grievances.<\/p>\n
Given greater authority, it is hoped that regional
\nadministrations will be able to strengthen their economies. We
\nbelieve that this is very likely to happen because regional
\nadministrations are better informed about the strengths and
\nweaknesses of their respective regions.<\/p>\n
The provision of greater regional autonomy is also in line
\nwith the trend towards globalization throughout the world, in
\nwhich decentralization is the key to stronger economic growth.<\/p>\n
However, we are not saying that the move is without risks.
\nSome local authorities may exploit the transfer of power for
\ntheir own ends.<\/p>\n
-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/regional-autonomy-no-threat-to-nation-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }