Concern over economic disparity

Concern over economic disparity

From Republika

The gathering of Moslems after Ramadhan to exchange expressions of forgiveness (halal bihalal) at Monas Square in the evening of Feb. 2, organized by the Jakarta Administration and the MUI (Indonesian Council of Ulemas), has given birth to a pledge by Moslems from 30 organizations and the MUI. It was declared that Indonesian Moslems take a firm stance in mobilizing all forces to defend the country in the face of the economic crisis as a realization of their patriotic love.

With economic growth of seven percent in the past we saw a lot of unemployment and Indonesians living in extreme poverty. This means that tax revenues could not overcome poverty.

What about the zero economic growth forecast for the future? We must build together, without delay, economic national resilience in accordance with Indonesian morals. This responsibility is not limited to the government. It is also the task of the whole Indonesian population.

Society is aware of the concept of Pancasila economic democracy. It implies a willingness to help the economically weak rural population and work colleagues who are laid off. Social justice needs to be applied to the whole population (application of the noble Pancasila moral values).

The operational movement on a national scale should directly benefit the poor people. It should close the gap between rich and poor. God never prohibits people from becoming rich, but God forbids wastefulness and stinginess.

I am convinced that Indonesia still has many rich people with good morals to overcome the social and economic gap.

JOHN ALEXANDER RITIAU

Jakarta