Responding to 2002

Responding to 2002

From Media Indonesia

In the year of 2002, shall we continue to behave like before: namely, showing off our wealth, seeking fortune by any means, blaspheming and belittling one another, placing our own interests over others', working unprofessionally and defying religious teachings?

Apparently, people feel tired, stressed and even frustrated living in a country where there is no clear implementation of the people's visions. Where is this country be heading? We are ashamed of being Indonesians and must take pity on our younger generations as heirs of the nation.

I therefore call on the president and all the people to contemplate, pray and vow that the year 2002 will become the year for the resurgence of the country's creativity and achievement.

I propose five principles for building a happy nation, namely, (1) to live modestly as a manifestation of empathy for our debt- ridden country and the unfavorable conditions experienced by the larger part of the nation, (2) to respect and appreciate each other, (3) to work hand in hand to build the nation, (4) to be disciplined, honest and creative in work, (5) to follow religious teachings.

SYAHRULY JANGSEM

Jakarta