Better communication needed

The Supreme Court chairman, Sudomo, has suggested that government officials start to communicate more intensively with the public. The same suggestion was also raised by head of the National Intelligence Coordinating Body, Lt. Gen. (ret.) Moetojib.

The suggestion was raised by the two officials in the context of efforts to prevent social upheavals. It is a valuable suggestion, but to make it possible an agreement firstly has to be reached on the format of the communication that is to take place.

For instance, any form of communication would be ineffective if in meetings between government officials and representatives of the public only one side made itself heard -- which is usually the government side. Effectiveness would also be lacking if a meeting was to be held merely to keep up appearances and to justify the claim that communication already exists.

Our paternalist and feudal culture and the complexity of the problems involved are among reasons those in positions of leadership are inclined to adapt a "father knows best" attitude and that all others had better accept our judgment.

Through discussions which are held in a spirit of give and take and in which all participants are willing to listen to each other, problems are shared and a common solution is sought. And since development implies the introduction of various aspects of social dynamics -- either intended or unintended -- communication must be made on a continuing basis.

-- Kompas, Jakarta