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