Media leaders condemn Bali attack

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

In the wake of the Oct. 12 Bali bombing tragedy that claimed 183 lives, prominent media leaders grouped in the Editors' Club, Television Association and the Public Relations Association (Perhumas) conveyed their deep concern on Wednesday over the incident and extended their condolences to the dead and injured of all nations.

In a seven-point statement made available to The Jakarta Post on Wednesday evening, the three groups strongly condemned the terror acts and extended their appreciation to the big-hearted and generous people of Bali in dealing with the calamity, for showing their sincerity in helping rescue the survivors and for preserving harmony among the people.

The statement also urged President Megawati Soekarnoputri, members of the House of Representatives (DPR), prominent leaders and other components of the nation to immediately put aside all friction and political bickering and to sit down together to formulate and implement concrete steps for waging war against terrorism.

The President and DPR members were also urged to take concrete measures to overcome the impact of Oct. 12, Black Saturday, and promptly launch physical, economic and social reconstruction.

The statement asserted that measures to restore the economy and the lives of Balinese people must include the rebuilding of Bali's image as the country's icon of peace.

The groups further urged all Indonesians to unite in confronting the national tragedy and to rise together to restore the country's dignity.