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