Putting investors at ease

Putting investors at ease

In light of our present social and political situation, the heating up of sentiments as the general election approaches and the almost endless flare-ups of violence in several of our country's regions, (Armed Forces Commander) Gen. Wiranto's assurance that the country is safe for investors sounds almost hollow.

Why? Because the prevailing reality shows that since the student-led reform tide swept Soeharto from the presidency, practically not a month has passed without an outbreak of violence. In such a situation we believe Gen. Wiranto's assurance is incomplete unless it is followed up with a series of systematic and transparent efforts and measures to end the violence...

In other words, if Indonesia can get over this crucial phase safely and if the violence can be reduced to a minimum, then no assurances from whoever will be needed to persuade investors to return.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta