Discipline vital to the nation

Discipline vital to the nation

I think a lack of discipline in various sectors has so far
been one of the main causes of stagnation in development, as well
as corruption, collusion and nepotism (KKN). We in Indonesia are
still lagging behind not only the advanced and newly
industrialized countries but also some developing countries in
upholding discipline in the daily life of the people.

Look for example at the attitude of people on the road. Many
drivers simply do not pay enough attention to the traffic
regulations, which results in traffic jams or even traffic
accidents that often claim lives.

It is true that a rapid growth in the number of vehicles that
is not followed by construction of new roads has contributed to
the traffic hazards. This is not to mention the undisciplined bus
drivers who more often than not pick up and drop passengers at
awkward places, worsening the situation on the roads.

Lack of discipline is also found in various ministries, as
reflected by the frequent reports on abuse of public funds.
Disciplinary measures must be taken against ministries that are
involved in malpractice, irrespective of whom the culprits may
be.

In fact the list of indiscplined actions prevailing in this
country can be surprisingly long. In other words indisciplined
practices also exist in such sectors as construction works,
educational institutions, forestry and in families. Every year
people living in certain areas have to deal with floods or forest
fires; and now and then, we witness student brawls, violent
skirmishes between residents of neighboring kampongs, etc. All
these are the result of a lack of discipline prevailing in our
society.

Former president Soeharto, when he was in power, launched "a
national discipline drive" to enhance the sense of discipline of
the public nationwide. This call got a positive response from
ministries, non-governmental institutions and
department stores as they displayed banners with the slogan "We
support the enhancement of national discipline".

However, despite this nationwide drive, everything remained
the same. There are no signs of significant improvement as far as
the behavior of society is concerned. KKN was hardly affected by
the so-called national discipline drive. "Enhancing the national
discipline" was nothing but an empty slogan.

To improve national discipline is a long process. It may take
a generation or two until a sense of discipline is deeply rooted
in the heart of every individual citizen.

In this context we hail President Megawati Soekarnoputri's
statement in her inaugural address that discipline, favorable
political climate and cooperation among all elements of society
are a prerequisite to solve the multi-faceted crisis facing the
nation at present.

SOEDARTO

Jakarta