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