Indonesia and globalization

Indonesia and globalization

From Tiras

On Oct. 11, 1995, Kompas published a report on a meeting
between well-known politicians, religious figures, writers,
artists, entrepreneurs and environmental activists from 50
countries, at the San Francisco World Forum, to discuss the
issue of global civilization.

Like it or not, global conditions and problems affect the
whole world, Indonesia included. The continuous growth of the
world economy and small businesses alike, the fact that human
attitudes toward life are increasingly universal, and the
revolution in the fields of information and telecommunications
will inevitably eliminate the borderlines between countries.
Business transactions, involving large amounts of money, no
longer need to be done in person. Through computer networks, we
can enjoy the beauty of cities like Paris. Governments will
become less important as globalization continues. For example, in
the past 10 years, many economic and trade activities have not
been generated by the government.

In addition, we can be sure of lasting peace, as soon as
global social and security issues are sorted out.

But what about Indonesia? Certainty, the astute founding
fathers of the republic took into account the future of material
and spiritual welfare, as is evident in the preamble of the 1945
Constitution.

Pancasila philosophy reflects the unity and integrity of a
nation that has many different ethnic groups, religions and
traditions. With this philosophy, Indonesia will, sooner or
later, become the focus of world attention. Pancasila constitutes
a melting pot of diverse elements, including religions. All
religions ultimately aim at the realization of welfare for all
mankind, materially and spiritually.

DR. AGUS UTORO

Serang, West Java