Support for ICMI

Support for ICMI

I refer to the interview of Bisnis Indonesia with Adi Sasono, the secretary-general of ICMI (Association of Indonesian Moslem Intellectuals), which appeared in that newspaper's third Sunday edition in December 1995. Certain points drew my attention.

Adi spoke of a catalytic function; an effort to actualize mobilize the lower layers of society, translating official policies into practice -- for example, the effort to bring about greater social equity. He also referred to the effort to honestly support policies and, last but not least, Adi spoke of bridging differences among the people without creating dichotomies.

Social injustice exists which could endanger the integrity of the country as a unitary entity. This social injustice is the result of the political system, which has shaped the economic and social system.

I support Adi Sasono's ideas. Being an intellectual forum, it is right for ICMI to advocate change and initiate innovations to the system which, directly or indirectly, has caused social injustice. The change and innovation should be carried out in a peaceful manner, without resort to violence.

I would like to comment especially on the effort to mobilize the society at the grassroots level. This can best be achieved through freedom of association for the people; i.e., farmers, workers, fishermen, journalists, artists and civil servants. Only through freedom of association will the people be able to overcome social injustice.

MUCHTAR PAKPAHAN

Jakarta