An era of ironies

An era of ironies

It has been widely reported and also shown on TV how motorists
are queuing at gasoline stations to fill their fuel tanks. This
is truly convincing evidence that Indonesia is facing a severe
energy shortage. For most people this situation is beyond their
comprehension. Why does Indonesia -- a member of the Organization
of Petroleum Exporting Countries, have to endure this sad
situation?

In this context, the government has seemingly shown concern by
telling the people to be thriftier in using energy. President
Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has even gone further by issuing a
presidential decree ordering all government agencies to cut the
use of energy by reducing the use of air conditioners.

The President has also set an example by wearing a short-
sleeved batik shirt instead of a suit and tie, so as to stay cool
without the use of air conditioning in the office.

However, the good intention of the President has drawn
positive and negative reactions. Many people are showing their
displeasure about the President's appeal because it is vague in
nature, and sanctions for the offenders have yet to be
determined.

In the tourism sector, the presidential rulings are felt to
have hurt the tourist industry. The policy being implemented is
like rubbing salt into a wound.

Still another sad contradiction can be witnessed; while the
government is working hard for the effective implementation of
the energy conservation drive, our legislators are aiming for a
rise in their salaries and allowances. The members of the House
of Representatives who are supposed to take care of the people's
interests in reality have placed their own interests above those
of the people.

Sad to say people are powerless and cannot do anything to
improve their lot. Is this an era of ironies?

NYOMAN SUWELA, Singaraja, Bali