Love local products!

After the launch of the "Love Rupiah" campaign, the time is now ripe to launch a "Love Indonesian Products" campaign. The theme for this could be: "Be Indonesian and buy Indonesian." Most of the products produced locally are of acceptable quality and are reasonably priced, as compared to imported merchandise. In fact, some locally made products are exported to other countries and used by foreigners.

We should prefer to use local products and curtail the use of imported products as far as possible. To begin with, we have a large variety of local fruits and vegetables and there is no reason for us to buy imported eatables which are available even from roadside vendors. Though the color and packing of imported items may look more attractive the food value is the same.

Entrepreneurs should establish Indonesian fast food chains. It is needless to mention here that Indonesian food is healthier than other "fast foods," which are considered "junk food," even in their respective countries of origin. Locally produced toiletries, fabrics, garments, shoes, electronics, watches, and other consumer products satisfy exactly the same needs of the customers as imported items.

If we impose self-discipline by restricting the purchase of imported merchandise, shop owners will be discouraged to stock and import such items.

In order to further improve the quality of local products, it should be made mandatory for each industry to have a research and development wing. Any import substitute product developed locally, should enjoy special privileges such as exemption from taxes etc. Such measures would certainly encourage people to look for alternatives and restrict imports.

Foreign reserves are precious for any country, therefore they should be utilized discreetly and only for predetermined priorities.

R.K. CHOPRA

Jakarta