HMI and power

HMI and power

From Republika

I am referring to the article concerning the Islamic Students Association (HMI) (March 21, 1997). The article presented controversial opinions about HMI's close relationship with the government or the power. As a former activist of HMI I am openly criticizing the statement of a number of HMI alumni and chairman of the HMI board: "What's wrong with HMI being in close relationship with the government?" Or "It's natural that HMI is close to the power."

My view is that students should, by nature, keep a distance from the power. This does not mean that they should be opposed to the government. They should stay outside the power circle so that they can have objective views on the government's policies.

It is better for the students to be close to the people instead of being close to the power. The people have no power and very often become victims of power abuses. And power abuse can only be found in the party that holds power.

I remember Amien Rais, chairman of Muhammadiyah, and a HMI alumni, saying that Muhammadiyah's support of the New Order government is not without reserve. It gives its support as long as the government is true to its commitment to build a democratic society, to uphold the truth and justice, and still has the spirit to fight corruption and collusion.

I hope that HMI still retains its character and ideal in its mission.

JUDIKHERRY JUSTAM

Jakarta