Habibie Center for the people

Habibie Center for the people

The presence of the Habibie Center and the Habibie Comet in
the firmament cannot help but rekindle memories of the Habibie
era, during which he was the head of state.

Speaking in a television interview on the evening of May 21,
he said that these days he preferred to be seen as a scientist
more concerned with social and political phenomena in society
than as an ambitious man keen to sit in a government saddle
again. The Habibie Center plans to reach out its hand to help
Indonesia develop its human resources potential. It also might be
expected to develop scientific research activities for the
benefit of the common people.

I do not think that the center should concentrate its
endeavors on aerodynamics, such as designing a prototype of an
intergalactic vehicle or rockets which can take the Indonesian
flag to the Mars or Jupiter's moon. Or looking for inter-
planetary creatures.

Instead I like to see scientists and researchers look for
formulas on how to produce affordable alternative energy to
replace the depleting petrol and kerosene. Or ways to make
electricity from solar energy more available in rural areas.
Perhaps turning salty sea water into drinking water should also
deserve attention.

But the most practical element of the Habibie Center seems to
be to provide scholarships to brilliant students with limited
means to advance. There is a need for more Indonesians to receive
a Nobel Prize for their achievements, sooner or later.

To be crowned with immortality is the right of every leader
and genius in his or her field. But in politics and social life
it is imperative that examples of sacrifice and personal
integrity are set out so others will respect and follow you.

Hopefully, the Habibie Center will help produce Indonesians
with character, who are not merely chasing power and wealth which
will diminish soon or later like that of Soeharto; Indonesians
who are true to their principles. Developing and looking after
immortal values and honesty must be the obsession of every
democrat and future Indonesian leader in the service of the
community.

GANDHI SUKARDI

Jakarta