'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