Erosion of nationalism

Erosion of nationalism

From Rakyat Merdeka

In the context of the 57th anniversary of Indonesia's independence, a number of television commercials (mostly as company images) have appeared with nationalism as the main theme.

Some examples include Flag-hoisting Ceremony (Bank Mandiri), Indonesia My Holy Land (Polytron), Charm of Indonesia (Djarum 76), Bromo (Sampoerno) and Indonesia My Motherland (Indomie).

Thumbs up to these products as they show their idealism but I fear that fewer and fewer commercials like these have been made.

I only hope that the decline in the quantity of these commercials does not reflect the erosion of our nationalism.

It is a good idea that the Indonesian Association of Advertising Agencies (P3I), can add a new category of "Nationalist Commercials" to its annual TV commercials contest. Hopefully, the peak of this program will come in 2005, when we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our country. We may embark upon globalization but must continue to keep our nationalist spirit.

ROY SURYO NOTODIPROJO

Yogyakarta