DPD told to heed wishes of regions

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Conductor Addie MS walked through the hall, holding his cell phone as the popular Twilite Orchestra readied for its first performance ever at the People's Consultative Assembly/House of Representatives main plenary hall.

It was not the main attraction.

All eyes were on the hundreds of state officials, including President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Jusuf Kalla, who were dressed in traditional batik attire.

But beyond that, Tuesday's Regional Representatives Council (DPD) plenary was a landmark in Indonesia's political history, although it had earlier sparked controversy.

It was the first time for an Indonesian president to address the DPD, which was established only late last year, on regional development policies. The council said the plenary would be an annual event from now on.

The DPD was formed in line with the latest amendment to the 1945 Constitution, in the spirit of a bicameral political system.

Its members are directly elected and each province is entitled to four representatives.

Despite its mandate, DPD's authority -- if providing recommendations is one -- is limited to policies related to regional issues. Therefore, DPD since its inception has demanded constitutional amendments that will provide it with more powers.

Tuesday's plenary was a face-saving solution to the latest argument between the DPD and the House. The DPD had wanted a separate session to hear the President's annual budget speech, which normally is made in front of the House on Aug. 16.

The House insisted on holding a joint session, while the DPD stood firm by its request to have its own forum with the President. Both cited the same article in the amended Constitution which stipulates that the DPD provides recommendations to the House regarding the state budget.

The government agreed to appear before the DPD albeit not to address the state budget, but rather government policies on optimizing development in the regions, particularly the conflict- prone and less-developed ones.

DPD Speaker Ginandjar Kartasasmita said on Tuesday the event, which was attended by governors and regional legislative speakers, was to provide a national forum where these local leaders could hear the central government's plan for development in regions.

"This is to put all development work on a parallel track, and to ensure a synergy in the interests of all stakeholders through holistic development policies," he said.

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said in his speech that the government expected to see an active and constructive role from the DPD.

The existence of the DPD to represent regional interests, he said, could not be separated from the aspiration of all people that the administration does not take a centralistic role and gives equal opportunity to the regions to develop themselves.

"It would not be easy to channel the aspirations of our regions that are highly pluralistic. However, imbued with perseverance, prudence and a wise and judicious attitude, I'm confident that we'll be able to fulfill the regional aspirations," said Susilo.

Regional autonomy -- Page 4