Government assures LIPI's independence
Government assures LIPI's independence
JAKARTA (JP): The government assured the Indonesian Institute
of Sciences (LIPI) on Friday that it will enjoy complete
independence in carrying out its mission because freedom is a
pillar of creativity.
"The government will no longer interfere in LIPI's internal
affairs," acting State Secretary Bondan Gunawan said after
swearing in historian Taufik Abdullah as the institute's new
chief to replace Soefjan Tsauri.
"LIPI will be able to work independently and professionally in
line with scientific demands and norms. Without them, scientists
and researchers will loose imagination and creativity," he said.
Under Taufik's leadership, LIPI must strive to be more
creative and productive, Bondan said.
"I'm sure the government is not wrong entrusting him to lead
the institute. His meritorious service and reputation is beyond
question. Under his leadership, LIPI will become more famous and
productive for the nation," he said.
"Indonesia lags behind Europe and its Asian neighbors in the
development of science and related applications," he said.
Taufik, whose previous position was a LIPI senior researcher,
was estranged from the profession at one time because of his
vocal criticisms of then president Soeharto.
"We should not look back," Taufik said when asked about his
treatment by the past government. "LIPI will keep in mind the
government's promise of independence in carrying out its
scientific mission," he said.
He was one of the first public figures to criticize President
Abdurrahman Wahid's plan to lift a 34-year ban against the
teachings of communism and Marxism-Leninism.
LIPI will revive research activities in humanitarian studies
which have been neglected in the last 30 years, said Taufik, who
became the first chairman with a social science background.
"LIPI will also function as an agent of development in the
social, political and economic fields," he said.
Taufik said that to reduce dependence on state finances, LIPI
would forge more cooperation with end users of its research
products.
LIPI currently employs more than 1,000 scientists and
researchers.
Former LIPI chief Samaun Samadikun said he hoped the institute
would return to its original mission of developing sciences and
technology for the nation's benefit.
Dewi Fortuna Anwar, a political expert at the institute, said
one of Taufik's main tasks is to repair LIPI's public image.
The government should stop recruiting LIPI's scientists and
researchers into the administration and allow the institute to
turn itself into a center of excellence, Dewi said.
A number of LIPI staffers have joined the administration or
chosen political careers in recent years. (rms)