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