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