Political reform

Political reform

From Media Indonesia

Referring to Media Indonesia of July 3, 1996 issue concerning
the statement of Prof. Dr. Nazaruddin Syamsudin that those who
are in favor of political change are generally educated people in
the urban areas, while the rural population is still preoccupied
with survival.

It is true that the educated serve as a model. They should
sing in the same choir and work as a think-tank for political
reform for the benefit of all.

The crucial question is: Why have the people in the
countryside always been struggling for survival? Does this not
indicate that economic development is not equitable?

It should also be noted that nowadays many women are potential
income earners.

What is the position of women in Indonesia? Who is responsible
for their plight? They are still the victims of feudalistic
attitudes here. And men still traditionally dominate the
political arena. A change can be made by a small elite. It is
good that former Home Minister Rudini spoke about the fate and
position of women. He knows what should be done about it.

R.A. BERAR FATHIA

Bekasi, West Java