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