Nationalist spirit reigns in Ambon

Nationalist spirit reigns in Ambon

The people of Ambon lodged a protest against security
authorities for letting the Republic of South Maluku (RMS) flag
be hoisted despite the civil emergency administrator's earlier
warning to take stern measures against those who raise it.

The protest came from both Muslims and Christians who were
previously embroiled in sectarian clashes.

Since the signing of the "Malino II" truce, Ambon has begun to
change, with peace prevailing there. The nationalist spirit has
been revived and has flourished. Early this week, thousands of
people in Ambon bought the Red-and-White flag to be raised on
April 25, coinciding with the RMS' 52nd anniversary. This
reflects their resistance to the separatist movement.

The truce has no doubt brought about optimism that the
religion-based civil war in Ambon has finally ended. The
conflicting camps have begun to forgive each other and work hand-
in-hand in developing their future.

The people have sided with the Red-and-White flag, which has
united their differences for dozens of years. The hope for
togetherness shines again in Ambon, which has seen the spirit of
murder in the past three years.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta