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