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