A call for restraint

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