Indonesians are not Americans

Indonesians are not Americans

From Mimbar Ummat

On Oct. 28, 1928,young people from several ethnic groups signed an oath known as the Youth Pledge. This is a national "bridge" that is historically undeniable.

A group of people wanted to be united under the umbrella of Indonesia. Though we have been independent for only 55 years, Indonesia doesn't care from which ethnic group its president is from.

In the States and Australia, though they have been independent for hundreds of years, the people say the president or prime minister should be a white man, whereas historically they were the colonizers of Indian tribes and aborigines. They say Americans and Australians are defenders of human rights, but a lot of Indian and aborigines were slain. Maybe they think these two ethnic groups are not human beings. To Americans and Australians, perhaps, only the white race are classified as human beings ...

This republic was founded and supported by tribes working as 'pillars', which later become a house called Indonesia. What will happen if one pillar is destroyed or damaged by termites?

If someone tries to break up Indonesia, we must resist either diplomatically or with arms if necessary. A plague brought about by the termites can be prevented, and cured if necessary. We must seek the root of the ailment caused by the termites.

Therefore, if this nation wants to survive until the end of the world, we as its children must be united in solving our problems, not quarreling with each other or drunk with self- interest.

Let's make this country a just and civilized one, where social justice prevails through negotiation and consultation. Let's maintain unity and, hopefully Indonesia will become an integrated country with religious people.

M. WAHYU AMIN

Depok, West Java