'It's the same old tune with the police'
It has been four years since the police force said it intended to institute reform in order to provide better service and protection to the public. Previously, the police force was an integral part of the military for over 30 years. However, many still consider that the police have yet to "reform" themselves. To mark the Jakarta Police's anniversary on Monday, The Jakarta Post talked to some residents about their expectations as regards the police.
Budi Setyawan, 25, works as an IT operator with a financial firm on Jl. Sudirman, South Jakarta. He lives with his family in Menteng Pulo, Central Jakarta:
I have never dealt directly with policemen. I have never seen how they performance or what kind of service they provide. But as an ordinary Jakartan, I have some concerns on how they work and provide service to public.
I had a very annoying experience last week when a number of traffic policemen on their motorcycles stopped the traffic to make way for a passing official motorcade. What I hated the most was the way they stopped the traffic. They kept zig-zagging their motorcycles. What an arrogant attitude.
Anton, 25, works as a part-time parcel supplier in East Jakarta. He is studying at the Driyarkara School of Philosophy. He lives with his family in Pulomas, East Jakarta:
Frankly speaking, nothing has changed with the police. I can still easily find officers offering their 'help' for money when we need to arrange documents with them.
Last week, I renewed my vehicle registration document. Lots of officers, and even janitors, at city police headquarters were offering their services. They promised that I wouldn't have to wait so long, and even if I didn't have without the complete documents I could still renew my registration.
Their poor performance is also evident on streets. We can easily find them on street corners all over the city late in the evening stopping motorists for violating traffic signs. They say the violators can go to court or solve the violation on the spot, meaning paying a bribe. Obviously, most people prefer the second option.
-- The Jakarta Post