Birth of new organization

Birth of new organization

From Media

I carefully and attentively followed the comments of the nation's leaders concerning the newly established body called Yayasan Kerukunan Persaudaraan Kebangsaan or National Brotherhood Foundation (YKPK). The media's comments on the subject are positive enough, because it is felt that the establishment of the body is timely and attractive. However, Pak Sarwono, a cabinet minister, stated with reserve that the new organization has a good objective, but "I don't know what is behind it".

The birth of various bodies or foundations is evidence that democracy in this country is working. As a matter of fact, freedom of association and freedom of expression are guaranteed. Seen from this point of view I delightedly welcome the existence of this foundation or whatever bodies yet to be born. It reflects that democracy works. Could there be any other emotion but happiness?

I would like to quote Minister of Defense and Security Edi Sudradjat who stated in Media Indonesia of Oct. 25, 1995 that: "This Foundation is just like a small Indonesia which comprises different ethnic groups, religions, cultural and educational backgrounds, and professions. This is really unique in nature. Under this nuance, the members will be able to inspire the people as to how to implement nationalistic spirit and concepts."

Reading what is between the lines of Edi Sudradjat's comment, I believe that Edi is gently but bitterly critical of Golkar functional group. Why?

By uniqueness, Pak Edi clearly means that YKPK has some qualities that are absent in other organizations such as Golkar, for instance. As far as I know, Golkar has the same qualities mentioned by Pak Edi. I think Golkar can also be nicknamed "mini Indonesia". I don't see any difference between YKPK and Golkar, as far as qualities are concerned. Golkar has all the qualities that are found in YKPK. The only perceived difference is maybe that Golkar is understood to have failed in inspiring the concept of nationalism.

If I am not mistaken, and to my way of thinking, are the establishments of various intellectual organizations, which are based on their respective religions, resulting from the inability of Golkar to inspire nationalism? If that is the case, the condition is serious.

As a member of Golkar myself, I am highly concerned with the healthy life of the organization which holds people's aspirations. Hailing Golkar Chairman Harmoko's speech during the celebration of Golkar's anniversary, I am of the opinion that Golkar has anticipated all major problems and every challenge has been answered.

All I have said might sound somewhat pessimistic, nevertheless I wish someone would convince me that all my fears are baseless. Although there seems to exist duplication in objectives among the various organizations, it does not indicate that disunity is prevalent. On the other hand, it shows that democracy is growing. Congratulations, YKPK!

SOEGIH ARTO

Jakarta