Minister cautious about antiterrorism move
Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta
Despite the extensive authority decreed by the President to fight terrorism, Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono announced on Monday cautious policies in handling terrorism.
In the prepared press briefing on Monday, Susilo declared the establishment of an anti-terrorism body to support the decision- making process and coordinate the operation against terrorism.
It also recommended immediate deliberation of bills on anti- terrorism and intelligence, and the opening of a website regarding government measures in the campaign.
"The fight against terrorists will be a long battle and Indonesia would like to do it in a constitutional manner without rushing into anything," Susilo said.
Susilo was given a "blank check" by President Megawati Soekarnoputri when she issued the Presidential Instruction No.4/2002 authorizing him to lead the anti-terrorism campaign in the wake of Bali bombing on Oct. 12.
Many expected that Susilo, in accordance with the power delegated by the president, would take stringent measures and launch a quick crackdown on all movements related to terrorism.
Pursuant to its approval of the UN Security Council decision to put Jamaah Islamiyah on its list of terrorists, Indonesia is obliged to freeze the funds and other assets and block the movement of the organization's members.
Susilo has so far exercised restraint in executing his authority, and remains hesitant to take action that would ensure the safety of the country from terrorist-related threats.
"Indonesia has an intention to fight terrorism, but it will be conducted in accordance with the country's regulations and will consider all current social and political sensitivities in the country," the minister stated.
"The war against terrorism should not create more national problems and new crises," he added.
Regarding the newly established anti-terror agency, Susilo said that it would coordinate all intelligence, law enforcement, evaluation, public information and international cooperation.
"The agency does not have the authority to carry out the operation, but to coordinate the policy-making process and to support the government," he explained.
He reiterated that the House of Representatives needed to speed up the deliberation process of the anti-terrorism and intelligence bills in a bid to provide a strong legal basis for the government to move against terrorism.
For the sake of transparency, Susilo's office will open a website, wherein the public can access government measures in the campaign.
"We also would like to hear the public's opinion and information regarding our efforts against terrorism. We invite all community groups or non-governmental organizations to discuss with us how the government deals with terrorism," he said.