Behavior of youngsters

A news report said that according to (Police) Let. Colonel Ibrahim, every day at 7 a.m., about 2,500 boys and girls enjoy themselves at a frenzied party, tripping after having taken Ecstasy pills. They are not quite themselves. They hug each other (girls with no bras), accompanied by blaring music from a car stereo. You may witness this scene at Bina Ria Ancol in North Jakarta. You will not fail to see a very horrible event. These youngsters do this (seemingly unaware of their surroundings) when other Jakartans either go to work or school.

They hail from middle-income and well-to-do families, including those of government officials. These people are usually very busy craving for material gains, which results in disharmonious relationships among family members. Very little communication takes place between these children and their parents.

Busy parents tend to solve every problem by way of money. They lure their children with money and have virtually no control over how they spend it. It is quite probable -- and this may be the worst outcome -- that the money is spent on Ecstasy pills. What unfortunate parents they are! Being absorbed in routine work does not pay as far as family relationships are concerned.

Besides, these youths' behavior will only widen the gap between rich and poor and breed social jealousy. The situation is that a certain group of people live prosperously, while many have to do with small earnings and live in shanties. Offspring of government officials and well-off people can find jobs easily and are showered with business facilities. On the other hand, children of common people are rarely employed.

The government should consider doing whatever it can to improve the situation. However, I see no indications that it is heading in that direction.

SUHARSONO HADIKUSUMO

Jakarta