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