Honorary degree overlooked

Concerning the obituary of professor Sumitro The Jakarta Post, March 10, 2001, page 2), one thing is overlooked: He received an honorary degree from his alma mater, the Erasmus University in Rotterdam (formerly Nederlandsch Economische Hogeschool) on Nov. 5, 1995.

The event was promoted by professor Dr. S. Cnossen. The ceremony was attended by a large number of Indonesian guests, from Jakarta as well as from the Netherlands.

Professor Sumitro is an economist, scientist, diplomat, statesman and philosopher.

In his expression of thanks, Sumitro asserted, as an article of faith, "that humanity will be able to deal with current and future challenges by upholding certain guiding principles, such as those exemplified by the observation: Let reason and rationality prevail, with compassion for the underprivileged, whoever they are and wherever they may be".

SANTO KOESOEBJONO

Wassenaar, The Netherlands