Riots

Riots

Three months ago riots broke out, triggered apparently by
excessive discrimination against a certain ethnic group. The
riots were underlined by envy, greed and mutual suspicion. Why
have all these traits been made a reason to destroy our own
nation?

Some say that ethnic Chinese refrain from mixing with the
indigenous. I wish to stress here that I am of Chinese descent
and that I went to a government school which usually takes only
four students of Chinese descent every year. I made a lot of
friends there. I strongly object to the allegation that ethnic
Chinese uphold exclusivity and cannot socialize with other
groups.

I do not wish to dig up past events. Why don't we join hands
to build this nation?

Look outside: forest fires, inundation, wars in various
countries. Don't you all realize that God is now punishing us?

I don't know whether what I have written will touch any
feelings. But, again, look at this world, which is getting older.
I am warning you all: Wake up, doomsday will come sooner than
expected!

MARSHAL SOEKARNO

Jakarta