Proclamation Day in 1945 and 2001

Proclamation Day in 1945 and 2001

From Media Indonesia

The Republic of Indonesia was proclaimed on Aug. 17, 1945, a Friday. Coincidentally, this year's commemoration will be on a Friday too. The proclamation of Indonesia's independence on that day was read by Indonesia's first president, Ir. Soekarno and, coincidentally again, this year's commemoration will be led by Indonesia's fifth president, Megawati Soekarnoputri, Soekarno's second child.

Since the outbreak of the monetary crisis in 1997, there have been many problems to be tackled, such as upholding the supremacy of the law, which is a top priority, and ensuring economic and political stability at home.

Common people hope that the supremacy of the law and economic as well as political stability will always be well-maintained during Megawati's presidency. They also hope that people's representatives in representative institutions will really fight for people's aspirations and benefits and ensure that people will generally enjoy freedom in democracy. It is also the hope of many people that the government will think very carefully before making decisions that will affect the larger part of the population.

May Aug. 17, 2001 marks a good beginning for Indonesia's recovery, just as Aug. 17, 1945 marked the establishment of a free Indonesia.

BAMBANG SUGONDO

Jakarta