Disapproval of the liquor ruling

Disapproval of the liquor ruling

From Neraca

The pros and cons regarding the distribution of liquor issued
by the Jakarta administration are spreading like wildfire. As I
see it, the situation is quite worrying. Even if the ruling has
not been officially issued, it still is a source of concern
because the House of Representatives has approved it.

The government's decision to restrict liquor distribution to
certain wine dealers only is not a wise move. The ruling, can
indirectly be interpreted as a legal authorization of the sale of
wine and spirits.

Liquor cannot be regarded as a common commodity controlled by
economic laws. The availability of liquor at only certain dealers
would make it a rare and expensive product. It does not mean,
however, that demand for strong drinks is going to dwindle.

At the same time, a permissive trend is reigning among members
of the younger generation, who entertain the belief that drinking
alcohol is not fatal. The government should give this its
consideration.

Being Moslem, I have become increasingly concerned. The House
of Representatives does not seem to be able to express the
interest of the public majority, particularly the interest of the
Moslems in this country. I am certain that most of the people are
very concerned about the widespread dangers of liquor, as it is
one of the causes of increased crime in cities at the moment.

Perhaps we have to start analyzing the results of the survey
done by Republika in relation to spirits and other alcoholic
drinks. A large number of respondents, 184 persons (61.3
percent), were of the opinion that the ruling is more inclined
toward the sale of liquor, while 150 respondents (50 percent) are
of the opinion that the regulation is covering a larger motive,
namely to increase the income of the region through the sale of
spirits.

On account of the survey results, I feel that the home
minister should avail himself to a discussion concerning the
rules for liquor distribution with several groups of society.
After all, the liquor issue is not solely the responsibility of
the Ministry of Home Affairs.

NANA S.

Jakarta