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)