Important elements of autonomy

Important elements of autonomy

From Media Indonesia

In response to an editorial titled, "Menyelamatkan manisnya madu" (savoring the sweet taste of honey) in Media Indonesia daily published on Sept. 6, 2001, I would like to put forward my view.

I am of the view that there must be three important elements to the implementation of regional autonomy: first, coordination and correlation; second, vision and mission; and third, selectiveness and fair implementation.

It is necessary to ensure good coordination and correlation, meaning that each province, regency, subdistrict, village administration or neighborhood organization must be aware of the need to foster solid coordination with the central government.

The regional autonomy program should be regarded as job cooperation between central government and regional administrations, and should be correlated with efforts to preserve national integrity comprehensively. Thus, the struggle for progress must involve all components so "the sweet taste of honey" can be enjoyed together.

The vision and mission of regional autonomy needs to be reviewed. Clarity of the vision is required beforehand in order to prepare the mission. I observe that the regional autonomy program has been confusing in its implementation, leading to disorientation. Therefore, it is urgent for the government to bring the program back to the right targets.

Central government should implement the regional autonomy program selectively and fairly by conducting a feasibility study of areas eligible for regional autonomy. The program should be implemented soon for eligible areas. Central government should support regions not yet ready to implement regional autonomy so as to make them eligible for the program. We should strive to enjoy the "honey" by working.

ABINERI GULO

Tangerang, Banten