Soeharto warns of adverse groups

Soeharto warns of adverse groups

JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto warned yesterday of the
acrimonious roles played by certain minority groups to create
unrest, adding that minor issues could fester adversity by
inflaming sequestered tensions.

"From the various social turmoils that have occurred we can
clearly see the negative role played by certain small groups,"
Soeharto said.

"Propelled by numerous political beliefs, they snatch
opportunities, such as spreading rumors about sensitive matters
in society," he added without identifying the groups.

Addressing a gathering at the State Palace yesterday to
commemorate the 26th anniversary of the Indonesian Civil Servants
Corps (Korpri), Soeharto warned that "we will not allow these
negative activities to go on".

Also present at the ceremony were Vice President Try Sutrisno
and the Minister of Home Affairs Moch. Yogie S. Memed.

Soeharto said that the nation's scrutiny, criticism and
demands had increased in the past few years in line with the
greater dynamism of society.

He warned that unless anticipated well, it could very easily
provoke unrest and trouble.

"The igniting factor of social unrest usually comes from
issues which seem small. But since they are linked with other
issues which are buried beneath the surface, these minor issues
can erupt into greater unrest," the President said.

Speaking on the role of the civil service corps, Soeharto said
"giving good service is the main duty of civil servants".

"All of us, from high-ranking to low-ranking officials are
people's servants. So, pay attention to all the complaints and
criticisms addressed by the society to Korpri, and make
corrections immediately," he said.

Soeharto said that civil servants should not seek particular
recognition from people for conducting their duties.

"I ask for your attention, there is no obligation for people
to express their appreciation to civil servants if they perform
their tasks well," he said, noting the public's right to
criticize the corps' service.

At a separate celebration to commemorate Korpri's anniversary,
the Armed Force's Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Tarub awarded Satya
Lencana Karya Satya medals to three state employees who have
served at the Armed Forces headquarters in Cilangkap, Jakarta,
for 10, 20 and 30 years.

Those receiving the award in the modest ceremony were Paimin,
Nana Murdiana and Bambang Pamungkas. (09/prb)