'Perspektif' banning

From Forum Keadilan

In regard to the banning of SCTV's program "Perspektif" as of Saturday, Sept. 16, we have received numerous questions from viewers. On that day a well-known author was on the agenda and was waiting in the studio, although he had previously read in newspapers that the program was being "rescheduled".

We feel the need to give the following clarification.

SCTV's board of directors informed us of the closing of "Perspektif" during a dinner on Sept. 13. We had the impression that SCTV was left with not much choice. The board, who support the program which is strongly identified with the station, have also lost out.

Questions may arise as to who has exercised pressure on SCTV to "reschedule" the program. It is clear that SCTV themselves are in favor of "Perspektif", and even funded the program for one year. They also financed the launching of the book Perspektif. You can infer yourselves who took the covert action and for what reasons. Because of the previous airing on Mochtar Lubis? May be. Mochtar talked about historical change in the Indonesian press system and the responsibilities of the press and others.

Nevertheless, we will not retreat. Time will disclose the truth. We do not want to lose "Perspektif" viewers who are intelligent Indonesians with integrity. As the saying goes, "for each one lost, two new ones appear."

Fax us your comments on 021-5251731, e-mail 102506, or send a letter to P.O. Box 4320 KBY JKT. We will be very grateful.

WIMAR WITOELAR

SCTV's "Perspektif"

Jakarta