Civilians must have their say
It remains unknown how much say civilians will have in shaping reform within the military and deciding the latter's place in Indonesian society. Nonetheless, The Jakarta Post's recent interviews with George Aditjondro and Cornelis Lay show that the progress of the reform movement will stagnate if serious measures are not taken to send the military back to the barracks.
In China, Premier Zhu Rongji has been pushing hard for an end to military involvement in business. Although regarded as part of the country's effort to reform the economic sector, Zhu's policy is also seen as an attempt to make the People's Liberation Army (PLA) more professional.
Despite encountering continued resistance from numerous military leaders, the government's efforts have shown some success. And to compensate for the PLA's retreat from the economy, Beijing has pumped funds generously into military coffers for force modernization and doctrinal evolution purposes.
Just like the Indonesian Military (TNI), the PLA became involved in business in an effort to raise operational funds. However, as the Chinese economy developed, the military's business ventures showed inefficiency and were actually causing harm to the country's overall economic progress. Moreover, special privileges given to military businesses divided the society as it caused serious discontent among civilians.
Although it may appear overly simplistic, Indonesia can certainly learn a lesson or two from the Chinese government's decision. This may be feasible, especially considering warming ties between the two governments.
In Indonesia, the military's image may have been tarnished by its past wrongdoings and frequent excessive use of violence. However, addressing the need for a reconsideration of the dual function doctrine and the benefits of military businesses should not be necessarily seen as anti-militaristic.
These views should be seen as complements to growing voices within the military demanding structural and doctrinal changes.
TNI remains a crucial institution for defending the nation against foreign and internal dangers. Also, amid growing decentralization sentiments, the military provides the glue for preserving national unity. However, what Indonesia truly needs is a focused, professional and accountable TNI, i.e., a military whose interests are not distracted by continuous meddling in politics and the economy.
SANTO DARMOSUMARTO
Bekasi, West Java