Curing our broken wings

So soon after its birth, the fledgling government of Megawati Sukarnoputri has arisen to become a new magnet. It has become the center point of hopes, not only for this country but for the world because, throughout its history, Indonesia has always been not just a supplementary element but an active actor that lends it own color to the global palette. That is why this eldest daughter of (founding President) Sukarno is facing such a gigantic challenge.

She must without delay provide answers to a host of questions. At home, she must soothe the wounds that are left by the recent political skirmishes. In brief, she must bring about a national reconciliation while at the same time repair this nation's integrity -- an important step towards rebuilding this nation. We are aware of Mega's spirit to fulfill this nation's hopes. She aspires to repair our fractured national integrity and continue the process of reform and democratization in all their aspects and make our economy run smoothly again.

And that isn't all. Mega wants to repair this nation's dignity in the world, to consistently uphold the law and stamp out corruption, which has grown to be a cancer threatening our nation's life. She has asked her kin not to tread on this cursed territory. That, at least, is what she has revealed on various occasions since she was installed as President of the Republic of Indonesia on July 23. We recognize and acknowledge the sincerity of Mega, who built her political career on just resolve and silence.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta