'Salaries, benefits should be cut'<\/p>\n
Mixed reactions have poured in over the decision of the People's
\nConsultative Assembly (MPR) leaders to return the luxury cars
\nthey are entitled to and start the campaign of a modest life. The
\nJakarta Post talked to some residents of their opinion about the
\ncampaign.<\/p>\n
Diana, 26, works for a consultant company on Jl. Sudirman,
\nCentral Jakarta. She lives with her family in Pulomas, East
\nJakarta:<\/p>\n
I think it's good that some leaders have tried to show a
\nlittle bit more sense. The cars can be a starting point and they
\nshould take it further than that.<\/p>\n
I know some people think of it as lip-service and an
\n'insignificant' saving for our country.<\/p>\n
First of all, I don't think it's insignificant. Let's say one
\nMPR member saves Rp 200 million (US$21,978) from renounce the
\nVolvo car. There are hundreds of members, so the savings could be
\nover Rp 100 billion. And that's only from the cars.<\/p>\n
Secondly, money is besides the point. If all councillors in
\nthe regions follow suit, and truly keep their word -- however
\ndoubtful that may be -- perhaps people will start believing in
\nthe elites of this country again.<\/p>\n
Carla June Nathan, mid-30s, works for a non-governmental
\norganization in Cempaka Putih, Central Jakarta. She lives near
\nher office:<\/p>\n
If they want to promote a modest lifestyle, they should not
\nonly cut back on the cars. Their living costs are really high,
\nwith all the allowances and benefits that they get.<\/p>\n
I think it would be ridiculous if they gave up the cars but
\nthen got more benefits from other sources.<\/p>\n
If the target is to make this republic better, they should get
\ntheir salaries cut. They should calculate what an appropriate
\nsalary should be for a suitable lifestyle, and get that much
\nonly.<\/p>\n
The MPR should establish a policy about what is appropriate
\nfor its members in the current economical condition. He (Hidayat
\nNur Wahid, the MPR chairman) could start with his Prosperous
\nJustice Party (PKS) and its coalition.<\/p>\n
I approve that he is making this breakthrough. But, if he is
\nreally committed for the next five years, there should be a
\nchange in the MPR's internal policy on its members' salary and
\nfacilities.<\/p>\n
-- The Jakarta Post<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/salaries-benefits-should-be-cut-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }