Spirit of solidarity needed

Spirit of solidarity needed

From Rakyat Merdeka

Observing an important event in the history of national struggle must not be construed as boasting with mere slogans and nostalgia of the struggle.

We thank God that the Indonesian people with their distinct plurality have tapped their rich experience in struggle to respond wisely and appropriately, in an increasingly transparent atmosphere, to the challenges and the opportunities that the present era poses by prioritizing national integrity above anything else.

On March 1, 52 years ago, an attack on Dutch colonial forces was launched in Yogyakarta, then the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia. Launching the spirit of "Freedom or Death", this attack brought together all national potentials and forged a strong solidarity among all national elements.

This spectacular attack, later known as "Yogya Returns", has its strategic significance in the history of the Indonesian people's struggle. It heralded the struggle to restore the territorial integrity and establish the authority of the government of the Republic of Indonesia.

This effort was based on a strong fighting spirit and the unity of the Indonesian military and people of all social strata and age groups. This strong unity, boosted by a strong fighting spirit, successfully broke the weakest link in the strategy adopted by the colonial rulers.

A struggle is never-ending. We are a nation of fighters. We fight to create and foster a life which all mankind can enjoy.

R. SOEPRIYADI

Jakarta