Outlook 2002: Indonesia's hopes

Outlook 2002: Indonesia's hopes

I agree with The Jakarta Post panelist Mr. Soejati
Djiwandono's views (Dec. 31, 2001).

Reforms in Indonesia are, in one way or another, linked to
addressing the genuine grievances of the people.

We can understand that solutions cannot be found in the short
term. But, basically, there must be truly good intentions on the
part of the powers-that-be to sincerely deal with the chronic
problems.

However, expecting the government to solve the problems is not
feasible. Public spirited people and NGOs, therefore, have a
great role to play, to create and sustain an awareness to pursue
the reform agenda.

The resilience of the Indonesian people always amazes me. The
nation has survived its worst period in history during the past
four years, and I am optimistic that the future can only get
better.

Again, on "universal" terrorism. The fight against terrorism
should be pursued in two ways. If the terrorism is "just a
cause", then a crackdown on destructive acts is surely called
for. On the other hand, if the terrorism is a "just cause", by
all means, every effort must be made to eradicate the grievances
of the people, in all spheres -- economic, religious, social and
cultural.

Notwithstanding this, resorting to terrorism which gives rise
to the killing of innocent people is not justifiable. There must
be better methods to articulate one's opinions, for instance,
through the proven Gandhian way, in which there is no place for
words like vengeance and hatred.

D. CHANDRAMOULI

Jakarta