Pancasila

From Sinar Pagi

Pancasila is the state philosophy that guides the nation's life. It has become the only principle for all organizations. And according to the late co-proclamator, Mohammad Hatta, Pancasila is sacred for all Indonesian people.

A new mass organization will soon be established called the Association of Pancasila Development Intellectuals (PCPP). In my views it is not right to use the word Pancasila in the name of an organization. The right thing to do is to base the organization on Pancasila as do other organizations and political parties.

Putting the word Pancasila in PCPP gives the impression that other associations like ICMI, PIKI, Catholic Intellectuals, or Hindu Intellectuals are less committed to Pancasila.

My argument is that if a member of PCPP is involved in a criminal case, Pancasila will inevitably be tarnished. Therefore I call on the authorities to issue a policy which regulates the use of Pancasila.

Muhammad Tito

Jakarta