Soeharto lauds the role of social groups

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)