Home Minister's firm stance

Home Minister's firm stance

From Suara Karya

A newspaper reported recently that Minister of Home Affairs Surjadi Soedirdja stated that the government is consistent in rejecting the option of seceding from the unitary state of the Republic of Indonesia, as voiced by a number of provinces.

His firm stance is positive and deserves our support because the founding fathers of this nation went through a lot to unify Indonesia, which is, according to the song, Dari Sabang sampai Merauke (from Sabang to Merauke). Now the heirs want to divide the nation. Is this attitude not a denial of our history and the sacrifice of our heroes?

We also feel that the problem leading to disintegration gives cause for great concern. The problem is linked to the former government's policies. Nevertheless, must the problems be solved by asking for the option of independence and separation? I think it is not correct and it has no valid reason because if it is done it will not solve the problem but give rise to new problems.

The government has issued Law No. 22 1999 on regional administrations, in which extended autonomy is given to the provinces, except for a number of basic matters which are handled by the central government. It has also issued Law No. 25 1999 on balanced financing between the central government and the regional administrations. This is proof of the new government's endeavor to restore justice which the provinces have not felt so far. It would be wise if all sides welcomed this decision and not to voice counterproductive comments before the laws comes into full effect.

I think the two laws are right to push development in the provinces and solve the problem of the risk of disintegration. In order to maintain the unity of the republic, the minister's statement is correct. It rejects the demands for an option that leads to secession from the Republic of Indonesia.

FERNANDES H.

Jakarta