Indonesian diplomats

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