A call for restraint

Since it came into being, Indonesia has been a nation of great diversity. Geographically it is the largest archipelago in the world. In terms of population it is the fourth largest country in the world. This population is made up of countless groups, each speaking its own language and adhering to its own customs and traditions. As a big family (therefore) we must exercise restraint and tolerance and share the joys and sufferings of our fellow countrymen and women.

The tragedies which befell the Soviet Union, Yugoslavia and Rwanda are not caused by cultural divisions as Samuel Huntington said in his book The Clash of Civilizations. They were caused by the actions of populist leaders who used innate feelings of hatred among ethnic and religious groups to serve their own ends. It is our task to see that such leaders do not emerge and gain ground in this country.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta