Soeharto lauds the role of social groups

JAKARTA (JP): President Soehasto stressed the importance of social organizations yesterday, saying they complement political organizations, which can not accommodate all issues facing society.

"Not all matters in the life of our nation can be handled by political organizations. In fact, many issues are not only beyond the reach of political organizations, but are better addressed by social ones," the President said.

Opening the leadership meeting of the Communication Forum for the Offsprings of Retired Armed Forces Members (FKPPI), a politically well-connected youth organization, Soeharto described the development of social organizations as a natural occurrence.

He said social organizations are a manifestation of the principle of the people's sovereignty.

"In the end, the Indonesian people know what they need and how to fulfill those needs," Soeharto said.

During yesterday's opening ceremony at the State Palace, the President was accompanied by Armed Forces Chief Gen. Feisal Tanjung.

Also in attendance was FKPPI chairman Bambang Trihatmodjo, Soeharto's son. Bambang, along with his deputy, Yapto Soerjosoemarno, are among several FKPPI members nominated to the legislature by the ruling Golkar for the coming general election.

Soeharto also emphasized that social organizations serve a different function than political ones. He said people are free to form social organizations in accordance to the law, in order to contribute to national development.

Political organizations, on the other hand, are an instrument to channel people's political aspirations.

"Political organizations are not there merely to take care of themselves, but to help direct the affairs of the state," Soeharto said.

He then told the young generation, including those in the FKPPI, that while change and reform might be desirable, they must be checked within the parameters of the nation's development and should be used to advance it.

"Change and reform must not result in any development setbacks," the President said.

Finally, he reminded the organization members that as the world enters the 21st century, the surge of globalization will undoubtedly influence the way people view their lives.

Nevertheless, the new perceptions should not at any point question or undermine the nation's ideology and established principles.

In closing, Soeharto urged the children of retired Armed Forces members to continue to work within society.

"Even though you come from a particular setting, don't ever isolate or remove yourselves from the other young people... don't create jealousies," Soeharto said. (mds)