'Syariah' in Aceh

'Syariah' in Aceh

From Media Indonesia

I feel the need to comment on the Indonesian Democratic Party
of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan)'s objection to the enforcement of
syariah (Islamic law) in Aceh as reported in Media Indonesia on
May 5, 2001.

The objection was presented by PDI Perjuangan's secretary-
general upon termination of their meeting, led by chairperson
Megawati Soekarnoputri.

I remember when Megawati once asked Acehnese people to be
friendly toward each other, a move which she said would make
their heroine, Cut Nyak, cry in happiness.

Megawati's visit to Aceh raises a question: was it aimed at
reducing the suffering of the Acehnese, or just her having a
quick look?

The locals' expectations of Megawati have faded away because
of the absence of concrete action leading to a solution to the
province's problems.

Many local problems can't be solved as yet, so don't create
new ones!

Moreover, the Indonesian Council of Ulemas (MUI) Aceh chapter
chairman stated that religion in Aceh is already stipulated in
Law No. 44, 1999, paragraph 4. The concern that Aceh would
separate from the unitary state of the Republic of Indonesia has
undermined the central government.

So, the enforcement of Islamic law in Aceh would only
disadvantage a small group of people who have no good intentions
toward Aceh.

SAID MACHMUD

Jakarta