On monopoly

On monopoly

From Pikiran Rakyat

In Pikiran Rakyat March 17, I read a statement by the Minister of Industry and Trade Mohamad (Bob) Hasan that monopolies in the interest of the society are justified by article 33 of the Constitution.

I do not agree with the statement.

Said article reads as follows:

1. The economy is organized as a joint effort based on family principles.

2. Production sectors which are important for the state and which affect the people's life are controlled by the state.

3. The earth and water and the natural riches therein are controlled by the state for the highest benefit of the people's welfare.

In my opinion if monopolies are given to state-owned companies and are intended for the interest and welfare of the people, it is in accordance with said article 33 of the Constitution.

However, if monopolies are granted to private companies, though they are meant for the interest of the people's welfare, I think it is not in accordance with said article.

If such happens, it means that the end justifies the means and the system. If such is the case, it means that our objective to bring welfare to the people justifies a method and system outside article 33 of the Constitution.

If social welfare and the economy are organized not in accordance with article 33, it is feared it will go the way of a liberal economy, which is not in line with the message given to the People's Consultative Assembly mandatory.

MOCH. MOCHTAR

Bandung, West Java