Moral upbringing

Moral upbringing

From Merdeka

As a parent I am quite concerned about public behavior,
particularly among teenagers who no longer adhere to good manners
and ethics in the company of their parents, or women.

I have often observed this on city buses, at school or in
other public places. I am worried about the change in young
Indonesians' behavior. Unfortunately youngsters are vulnerable to
negative acts and it is therefore not surprising if brawls
develop among students.

But the thought that they might one day become leaders is very
disturbing, as their behavior is far from what is expected from
Indonesians who are known as a civilized, kind and helpful Asian
nation.

Media reports on crime involving a number of casualties call
for our immediate attention. If these incidents are also
occurring in families we should question what is behind them.

In my opinion the real cause can be found in a poor moral
sense, customs and manners which belonged to our forefathers.
These values have faded away now. Morals are no longer talked
about in families or taught at school, and this has resulted in
the prevalent obnoxious behavior among youngsters.

I appeal to the Minister of Education and Culture to revive
moral education in schools beside the instructions of Pancasila
morality (PMP). It is clear that guidance of this kind will
instill good behavior in our children who are the next generation
and future leaders.

THEO WIJAYA

Jakarta