Democracy, rights and environment

Democracy, rights and environment

From Media Indonesia

As Indonesians, we should be grateful to the former authorities who drew up the state ideology, Pancasila. We should not only learn its meaning by heart, but we should implement its ideals. One of its principles is a "just and civilized humanity."

If we live by and practice Pancasila, human rights problems would never have arisen in Indonesia. Indonesia could be a pioneer and a model for other countries where human rights have not been implemented yet.

Article 28 of 1945 Constitution mentions that citizens have the right to unite and assemble, voice their opinions orally and in writing. Democracy is reflected in its content.

In relation to economic matters, article 30 paragraph 3 of the 1945 Constitution says that land, water and other natural resources of Indonesia are controlled by the state and for the optimum benefit of the people.

How are Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution going to be implemented? Leaders should give examples in everyday life. Take, the law, for instance. Ours is a law-abiding country. The law should, therefore, be respected by all Indonesians. It should be the ultimate power in the country. People should fear the law, and not fellow human beings.

F. PUDIYANTO SURADIBROTO

Jakarta