Indonesian diplomats

Indeed, very few of our diplomats can speak a foreign language well enough to communicate effectively with their foreign counterparts. The suggestion by Minister Alatas to recruit children of diplomats who have studied abroad and speak foreign languages is good. However, considering the salary levels of civil servants, how can they be attracted to join the Ministry of Foreign Affairs? What incentives would they be given to join the civil service rather than the more lucrative private sector? At the very least, a merit system could be considered as is done in the private sector.

At present, it does require an exceptional dose of idealism for a young bright individual to choose a career in the civil service knowing full well that he or she cannot expect a decent salary in the foreseeable future, and when there is still doubt that promotion will be based on merit.

A few days ago, Prof. Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti expressed his concern because very few -- if any -- of UI's graduates from the School of Economics join the civil service nowadays. In the past, the School was a sort of training ground for future ministers.

One should seriously consider the consequences if the brightest in this country no longer join the civil service. Who then will be the leaders of tomorrow?

OLVIA REKSODIPOETRO

Jakarta