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