Regional autonomy no threat to nation

Regional autonomy no threat to nation

The provision of greater regional autonomy, which begins later this month, may have different meanings for different people. But it would not be correct to view the process of strengthening regional administrations as a threat to the nation state. The reason is that the autonomy being conferred does not include control over religious affairs, information or the basic "archipelagic" concept which ensures the unity of the nation.

The government has long been aware that there is a need for more autonomy at the regional level of administration. A failure to address this need would result in more serious consequences in the future.

It is a fact that the people of the regions have always lodged their complaints with the House of Representatives in Jakarta, rather than with their local administrations. This has given the impression that only the central government is capable of handling their grievances.

Given greater authority, it is hoped that regional administrations will be able to strengthen their economies. We believe that this is very likely to happen because regional administrations are better informed about the strengths and weaknesses of their respective regions.

The provision of greater regional autonomy is also in line with the trend towards globalization throughout the world, in which decentralization is the key to stronger economic growth.

However, we are not saying that the move is without risks. Some local authorities may exploit the transfer of power for their own ends.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta