Fri, 04 Feb 2000

Good example set by police chief

National Police chief Lt. Gen. Rusdihardjo's decision not to chair the All-Indonesian Volleyball Association is a distinctly positive example other high-ranking officers and officials should follow, so they can give 100 percent of their concentration to their main duties and obligations as public functionaries. They will thus obtain maximum achievement because they will not be disturbed and burdened with other duties, especially duties which are not related to their official jobs.

Rusidhardjo's decision also reflects his modesty, capacity for introspection and sense of responsibility, because he is in the process of resolving the many complex problems faced by the National Police in relation to public service and protecting the safety and unity of the state of Indonesia. He is aware that even with full concentration and without side-jobs he faces a great challenge.

In light of declining performances in various fields, it is fitting that public functionaries leave behind the era of double duty because their official tasks must be carried out to their optimum ability. The possibility of clashes of interest with parties, groups or hobbies must be prevented so that these functionaries can attain the results expected by the community.

Thank you Pak Rusidhardjo for setting this example. I hope that other officers and officials, particularly military officers, ministry officials, members of the House of Representatives and People's Consultative Assembly and the bureaucrats of the regional and local administrations, will follow your lead.

WISDARMANTO G.S.

Jakarta