Sat, 22 May 1999

Fed up and still taking it?

The May 18 article on the misuse of social safety net funds by Karang Anyar subdistrict head Erwanto is a prime example of what is rotten in Indonesia, and it will continue unabated.

Millions of dollars are stolen, misappropriated and deliberately misused by literally thousands in an official capacity and professionals in business. This in itself has created the loss of billions of dollars and the virtual collapse of the banking system and economy.

Where are the arrests, and more importantly, where are the convictions? Do you really want to eradicate these rampant "white -collar" crimes? A "country of laws", maybe, so let's see the teeth. If you don't start biting soon, these repeat offenders will never fear the growl.

BRIEN

Jakarta