'Inter-generation dialog could allay differences'
JAKARTA (JP): Although the process of one generation taking over from the one before it is natural, it needs sincerity as well as mental and intellectual preparedness, according to City Military chief Maj.Gen. Wiranto.
"For that reason, a communication forum in the form of inter- generation dialog is necessary and useful," Wiranto said yesterday when opening a discussion entitled The history of the struggle for independence and the implementation of the spirit of the 1945 generation in the development area.
The 1945 generation refers to those who fought during Indonesia's struggle for independence in the 1940s, culminating in the country's success in gaining independence from the Dutch yoke on Aug. 17, 1945.
Representatives of the 1945 generation, activists of youth organizations, members of non-governmental organizations as well as university students and military officers took part in the one-day discussion held in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Indonesia's independence.
Inter-generation dialogs, according to Wiranto, could help bridge different perspectives between the generations, thus facilitating the process. "Such dialogs need sincerity, honesty and openness on the part of all involved."
Maj.Gen (ret) Ahmadi, chief of the city branch of the 1945 generation council, said that it was impossible for Indonesia to proclaim independence without physical revolution.
He added that when the founding-fathers of the republic, Sukarno and Mohamad Hatta, jointly proclaimed Indonesia's independence it inspired other countries which were still under colonial rule to follow suit.
He urged the younger generation to inherit the spirit of the 1945 generation, including the values of heroism, togetherness, unity and the readiness to sacrifice everything for the sake of the public.
A participant representing the younger generation stated that the present generation is facing different problems and challenges, since the generation has to face global competition which needs quality human resources.
Ahmadi responded that as long as the new generation tries to keep the 1945 spirit alive and remain loyal to the people such differences pose no problem.
"The spirit will inspire the young generation to struggle for the challenges," he pointed out, adding that in essence the challenges faced by the 1945 generation during the struggle for independence and those faced by the present generation were the same.
A myriad of activities are now being held nationwide to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the republic.
The Monas square in Central Jakarta is the center stage for activities being held by the city administration to commemorate Independence Day, which will peak on Aug. 19 with the program called Kenduri Nasional (National Fiesta) which is expected to be attended by more than 70,000 people.
Wiranto called on the people to help keep public order and security during the celebrations. He said he had instructed his personnel to be on guard for any untoward incidents that might happen during the fiesta.
"But the public should also be cooperative by helping the officers keep order and security. Let's work together to prevent any incidents that could taint the greatness and the significant meaning of Independence Day," he said. (29)