Getting out of crisis

Getting out of crisis

From Neraca

A lot has been done to alleviate the community's plight in
coping with the economic crisis. The latest trend is providing
free meals at certain food stalls to people in the lower income
brackets who have lost their jobs because of the crisis.

There is nothing wrong with this idea, of course. Unless we
think about it more deeply, this may be the manifestation of
social concern shown by well-off people to those less well-off.
However, many people do not think that this is an appropriate
step to take because it does not teach the people concerned how
to be independent. There is also the fear that the provision of
free meals will just spoil those who have just lost their jobs.

If we give this idea a little thought, then we may say that it
is not fair because those who can enjoy the free meals are only
those who have lost their jobs because of the crisis.

The question now is what will happen to their families? These
free meals are given only at appointed food stalls. In fact,
their families at home also need food. So, this practice is not
efficient; rather, it is likely to be a financial waste. The
recipients will also be very dependent on these free meals.

We should, in fact, give more thought on how to get out of
this crisis both collectively and individually. For example, we
may think about how to find opportunities for businesses which
may be conducted together in a simple way.

This cooperation is not in the framework of the relationship
between "I" and "you". It means that we should not consider those
who have lost their jobs because of the crisis as objects we must
save but rather, as partners with whom we work out a way to get
out of this crisis.

Concretely, people who are better off usually have more
opportunities in terms of funds and business opportunities.

So, the pattern of "foster parents/children" adopted in the
industrial world may be used in this context. For example, an
official who is widely connected may gather a number of jobless
people and ask them to make soybean crisps. This product will be
sold to the official's acquaintances and relations. Who knows, he
also has an access to export?

Of course, well-off people does not mean only officials.
Businesspeople must also be involved so that they will not just
think of seeking profit. Under this scheme, "a fishing hook" will
be provided to each of those who have lost their jobs because of
the crisis. This method will be beneficial to both sides.

CHOIRULLAH EFFENDI

Bogor, West Java