Prestige at stake

We need to look for another hero, says one member of the South Sulawesi community in Jakarta. This is linked to the Attorney General A.M. Ghalib's case, the hot issue of the public call for investigation of former president Soeharto's wealth.

Over-reacting? The presentation of ayam betina (a chicken, which is a symbol of cowardice) by the student demonstrators to Mr. Ghalib is not only a shame for Ghalib alone but also for others among B.J. Habibie's cabinet ministers who are from South Sulawesi, where bravery is symbolized by ayam jantan dari Timur (a cock from the East).

The South Sulawesi community is noted for bravery and heroism. Every individual is deeply imbued with the concept of siri (feeling of shame/disgrace when unfairly treated) which very often gives rise to violent acts. People will question one's siri if one does not react after having been disgraced.

The students have apparently showed that they are somewhat ignorant of this culture of South Sulawesi by giving a hen to Attorney General A.M. Ghalib. To be considered having no siri is quite unbearable for the person concerned even to the extent that he would prefer to die than being accused of lacking that prestigious spirit.

However, the people of South Sulawesi firmly and consistently uphold the principles of democracy (respect and accept the voice of the majority) in finding a solution to a problem.

CIA USMAN

Jakarta