On alcohol

On alcohol

From Neraca

Our organization, the Indonesian Environmental Agency (BLHI),
opposes the legalization of alcoholic beverages in general. The
reasons are their negative social impact, as they can lead to a
higher level of crime and anarchy, and that they are contrary to
the values of Pancasila and religion. BLHI would accept a
restricted circulation of alcoholic beverages in star-rated
hotels and in international restaurants.

Currently, the level of crime is already a concern for the
community. Should there be condoning of the sale of alcoholic
beverages, the impact would be greater.

It is surprising that the Jakarta Legislative Council has
approved the regional regulation on alcoholic drinks, while
Jakarta has often seen street fights, acts of violence, riots and
other forms of crime. The council should issue a regulation
banning the distribution of alcoholic beverages. It is possible
that certain business interests are behind the regional
regulation. The matter should be investigated.

In whose interest was the regional regulation made? A rational
and pro-social step that should be taken by the council is to ban
the distribution of alcoholic beverages in Jakarta.

AGUS MIFTACH

BLHI Chairman