Social unrest<\/p>\n
The controversy over the recent violence in Situbondo,
\nTasikmalaya and West Kalimantan have triggered different comments
\nfrom government officials and political observers.<\/p>\n
Some believe the widening economic and political disparities
\nmay be one of the main factors to have ignited the violence. It
\nis also important to note that people have felt and experienced
\ninjustice and unfair treatment from the government. Many of the
\ngovernment's policies are inconsistent.<\/p>\n
Development projects, big and small, are granted to certain
\ncompanies, most of which are owned by the same firm or
\nbusinessmen. Inconsistencies can be seen in many areas and are
\nevident in government policies like the clove regulation
\n(monopoly), the Supreme Court issue involving Adi Handoyo, the
\nnational car Timor, the PDI leadership and the chaotic financial
\nreport of the Transportation and Mines and Energy Ministries. All
\nthese irregularities and unfavorable conditions seem to have
\ncaused a feeling of frustration and dissatisfaction among the
\npeople.<\/p>\n
People who suffer from hunger and live in poverty, and those
\nwho are unemployed can no longer control their temper and
\nemotions easily when they see their leaders' actions do not
\nconform to their expectations. It is regrettable, however, that
\npeople have used social and religious sentiments to vent their
\nfrustrations disrespecting law and order. Then we wonder what is
\nreally happening to the Indonesian people who usually take pride
\nin being tolerant and friendly. What about the implementation of
\nPancasila philosophy?<\/p>\n
The well-documented July 27 riots in Jakarta last year was
\ntriggered by the forceful takeover of the PDI headquarters by
\ngovernment-backed rival groups. In an opening speech of the House
\nsession earlier this year, Speaker Wahono said the authorities
\nshould prioritize preventive measures in handling social
\nproblems, so as not to unduly anger people. The repressive
\napproach should be used only as a last resort.<\/p>\n
He added that authorities and the public should use their
\ncommon sense, instead of taking the law in their own hands. Also
\ngovernment officials should give practical examples rather than
\nmaking statements on how to preserve national unity.<\/p>\n
We cannot blame the media or the public for blowing the issue
\nof wealth disparity out of proportion. Disparities in wealth
\nexist all over the world. It is true that social disparities are
\nnot entirely to blame for the recent disturbances.<\/p>\n
But it is time the government was sensitive to criticisms and
\nsuggestions and deeply examined the social ills. We should be
\nwise, gentle and responsible in judging the situations that
\ndevelop in society and should strive to create peace and order.<\/p>\n
ALOYSIUS HARYONO<\/p>\n
Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/social-unrest-1447899208", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }