Education and worship issue

Education and worship issue

From Kompas

In connection with the recent report in Kompas (Nov. 30) on the Sang Timur school affair, we would like to explain that the school committee and students' parents have met with the mayor of Tangerang to voice complaints and exchange views for a concrete solution.

The report stating that the mayor was closed in dealing with the case, which could give the impression that he had shown no concern for the problem faced by the Sang Timur Educational Foundation (YPKST), was not true.

Following the meeting, the mayor along with representatives of YPKST and the school committee answered journalists' questions, but Kompas was not present.

The mayor later instructed his public administration assistant and the Karang Tengah district head to invite the school committee to a dialog with the local community, in order to be assured of a separation between the school's education and worship facilities.

We are aware that education today still has to face major challenges, so that the participation and concern of the government, the media and local people are badly needed to end misunderstanding and unilateral action, for the achievement of the main objectives of education.

In the case of YPKST, the Tangerang city administration remains committed to seeking a proper solution so that Sang Timur's educational activities will not be hampered.

AHMAD CHAIRUDDIN Chief Spokesman Tangerang Municipal Administration Banten