Terrorism, a common enemy

Terrorism, a common enemy

From Media Indonesia

Acts of terrorism in Indonesia not only have claimed lives and
material losses, but have also spoiled the nation's good name,
while creating a negative image of the country -- that it is an
unsafe place to visit. The failure to learn from every incident
means that terror threats are always anticipated too late.

After an attack, we are invariably preoccupied by arguments
and pointing the finger of blame on the security agency and its
intelligence service, without any objectivity to our perspective.
Regrettably, some circles like the Student Executive Boards of
Greater Jakarta have demanded the resignation of the National
Police chief and the head of the National Intelligence Agency.

The Anti-Subversion Law of 1963 was seen as too harsh,
undemocratic and against fair trial and human rights, leading to
its revocation. But after its annulment, terrorist groups have
taken the opportunity to develop their networks and launch their
attacks, particularly bombing various parts of Indonesia since
1998.

Meanwhile, the Antiterrorism Law of 2003 is not yet powerful
enough to protect citizens against terrorist attacks, and should
therefore be revised to ensure its effectiveness.

Unless there is synergy between the political elite and the
authorities to formulate a better policy immediately to prevent
terrorism, cruel terrorist acts that defy human rights and
humanity will again wash over the country, making it unable to
rise from the difficult circumstances of the present.

BUDI ARDIANSYAH
Jakarta