People cleverer

People cleverer

From Forum Keadilan

Apparently the government is not quite aware that the country's development has made the people not only more prosperous but also cleverer, if not smarter than the government itself.

The people, different now, are not easily taken in by words, and are even less likely to heed orders or threats issued by the government. The people of today really understand and have a clear notion of the things happening in our society. Some have made statements to that effect, others bide their time.

Global information through advanced technology and factual experience are of great influence on people's development. Therefore, the government would be wise if it was more aware of and open to this reality. It means the government should dare and be willing to radically change its attitude and approach toward its people. Nowadays people do not accept an unrelenting attitude and rigid approach.

People of the present are no longer the innocents of yore who were just subservient. Recent events, including the riots as a result of the takeover of the PDI headquarters, are clear proof of it.

Parents often forget that children who have attended school for more than 10 years become adults and friends, not children any longer, let alone foes. This also applies to the public. It has developed during five phases of the Five-Year Development Plan. People are no longer naive children, they have become smart people and friends, not enemies, of the government.

Therefore, the most logical approach toward the government's friends is certainly not to take a condescending stance, especially not with the use of threats and blows. The best approach is indeed to be open to two-way communication, in order that we grow into a strong and wise nation.

ROYANDI TANUDJAYA

Jakarta