Some people see that Aceh will remain a matter of hot debate

Some people see that Aceh will remain a matter of hot debate in Jakarta while conflict continues there. Others see that the Indonesian government has been working all out to deal with the Aceh problem peacefully. An integrated operation is being prepared in anticipation if peace efforts fail. This has been ordered by President Megawati Soekarnoputri.

The integrated approach ordered by Megawati is a humanitarian and law enforcement operation and administrative and security restoration operations. We simply wish to remind the government that all these operations are aimed at the security and welfare of the Acehnese people.

We Indonesians are all responsible for finding the best formula to resolve Aceh's problems. We should be aware that it is a very serious task for us.

Threats of disintegration are escalating. This proves that the problem is indeed ours. Aceh's problems do not belong solely to the military (TNI) or government: Therefore, we should join hands so as not to let any party exploit them for its own interests.

We must use the same platform to deal with the dilemma whereby we must achieve peace, security and prosperity for the people of Aceh. This can be achieved only by using common sense. We should not sacrifice the nation for our own interests.

-- Kompas, Jakarta