No need for demonstrations

No need for demonstrations

From Surabaya Post

There have been demonstrations in Surabaya and other cities related to the current monetary crisis. I appeal to fellow students to take direct action against the crisis. We may be one of the causes of the catastrophe,

Ramadhan is a good month for introspection. We may be late in assessing the situation but never mind. We must now go into action. Following are steps to ease the monetary crisis.

First, have fewer meals at foreign franchises. It is even better not to eat there. We should now concentrate on traditional food or local franchises. Fast food franchise businesses target young people, who feel obliged to go there to show their new life style.

Every year at least Rp 450 billion in foreign exchange disappears in fees to franchisers and in importing raw materials.

Second, reduce or avoid buying foreign brand name products. The target of these products is again young people.

Third, instead of demonstrations, students should hold forums for discussions with their teachers, having the objective to increase the use of traditional and national products. Students should become the catalysts in technology development and innovation.

If South Koreans and Malaysians can take concrete steps to overcome their economic disaster by selling dollars and gold, and by showing their love for their national products, where is the problem for our students to follow in their steps? We can continue in the same way after the crisis is over.

SYAIFUL IRWAN

Address known to the editor