Fate of veterans' widows

Fate of veterans' widows

From Kompas

My mother is the widow of an independence war veteran who receives a government pension in Yogyakarta. For three years now, she has not been receiving what she is entitled to. According to local bank and pension officers, a widow only needs to support herself and is not entitled to a contribution towards to costs of living of her children.

I wonder if this is right. In fact, the wives of freedom fighters also participated in the struggle of their husbands for national independence. Why can't they enjoy the fruits of their own struggle?

There are only a few thousand veterans and veterans' widows left. My mother would feel very proud if she could help pay for the education of her grandchildren out of her pension. However, her pension only amounts to Rp 550,000 a month.

When will the government appreciate the sacrifices of our fallen heroes by heeding the fate of their widows? In my view, public money must not only be enjoyed by embezzlers.

TOK SOETARNO Yogyakarta