Gus Dur's legacy

Gus Dur's legacy

From Media Indonesia

Regardless of former President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid's weaknesses, we believe that some of what he has done is positive and should even be lauded. Democratization is a good example in this respect.

Other examples include acknowledgment of the plurality of our nation (a reference to the motto of the nation "Unity in Diversity") as manifested in the development of Chinese culture and the freedom of the press (notice the abolition of the ministry of information). Then, remember also the cross-subsidies and donations to the poor like the social safety net (JPS), to allow the poor to purchase rice and kerosene at reduced prices.

Some of my patients were treated at Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital and did not have to pay even a cent, thanks to a JPS- like donation. Compulsory donations in some schools have also been abolished. Action has been taken to eradicate corruption, collusion and nepotism, although this has yet to reach fruition.

Then every Friday Gus Dur met members of the community and even non-government organizations. Don't forget that it was also during Gus Dur's era that regional autonomy was introduced. Just like anybody else, Gus Dur has his pluses and minuses. As for us, let's take the positive side.

DR F PUDIYANTO SURADIBROTO

Jakarta