Sacrificing for the country
Sacrificing for the country
President Megawati Soekarnoputri and Coordinating Minister of
the Economy Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti have highlighted the
financial difficulties experienced by Indonesia. Both of them
then appealed to business people to make sacrifices and help the
country by bringing back funds kept abroad.
Business people reacted by saying that they were basically
prepared and willing to do so, but on the condition that the
government restores trust and creates a conducive situation.
It is a pity that the momentum, which should have evoked a
sense of responsibility in all citizens, was not used to its
maximum effect. It did not create a serious impression, as it was
expressed indirectly, through a second source, who probably did
not fully grab the essence of the message.
Another hindering factor is that the government has not
completely done its homework. It has not shown any seriousness in
creating a conducive atmosphere in the country.
It is also important that in rebuilding the country's economy
the government has a fair and non-discriminatory attitude. The
government should appeal not only to the business people, but
also to current and former government officials.
The officials also keep extensive sums of money overseas. The
bank accounts of an official - whether civilian or military -
could reach millions of dollars.
This must be related to corruption. It is highly improbable
for any official to have such huge amounts based on their monthly
salary.
Their behavior has clearly damaged the nation. Not only have
they taken the country's money, but they have kept it abroad.
This is where the government's seriousness will be tested. It
must take substantial action to combat corruption, while at the
same time ensuring everyone is treated equally.
-- Kompas, Jakarta
President Megawati Soekarnoputri and Coordinating Minister of
the Economy Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti have highlighted the
financial difficulties experienced by Indonesia. Both of them
then appealed to business people to make sacrifices and help the
country by bringing back funds kept abroad.
Business people reacted by saying that they were basically
prepared and willing to do so, but on the condition that the
government restores trust and creates a conducive situation.
It is a pity that the momentum, which should have evoked a
sense of responsibility in all citizens, was not used to its
maximum effect. It did not create a serious impression, as it was
expressed indirectly, through a second source, who probably did
not fully grab the essence of the message.
Another hindering factor is that the government has not
completely done its homework. It has not shown any seriousness in
creating a conducive atmosphere in the country.
It is also important that in rebuilding the country's economy
the government has a fair and non-discriminatory attitude. The
government should appeal not only to the business people, but
also to current and former government officials.
The officials also keep extensive sums of money overseas. The
bank accounts of an official - whether civilian or military -
could reach millions of dollars.
This must be related to corruption. It is highly improbable
for any official to have such huge amounts based on their monthly
salary.
Their behavior has clearly damaged the nation. Not only have
they taken the country's money, but they have kept it abroad.
This is where the government's seriousness will be tested. It
must take substantial action to combat corruption, while at the
same time ensuring everyone is treated equally.
-- Kompas, Jakarta