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