Beware foreign values!

Beware foreign values!

From Media Indonesia

We are at present confronted with some disheartening phenomena. Firstly, the ever declining spirit of nationalism as a result of the intrusion of foreign values, i.e., individualism, consumerism, materialism and capitalism.

Secondly, the gap between economic development in the regions and that in the towns is widening; so is the gap between rich and poor as the result of an economic system that does not benefit the people at large, who long for justice and prosperity.

Thirdly, the process of marginalization of potential lucrative sectors, such as agriculture and maritime resources, the growing poverty in rural areas and the lack of commitment to uplifting the intellectual capacity of the people.

As a nation, we cannot remain introverted. But, on the other hand, to adopt all foreign values into our society to the detriment of the values of our forefathers would be a big mistake.

PRAMUDHITO Denpasar