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