The state, an umbrella for its citizens

Two out of three Indonesians held in the Philippines for alleged terrorism were released on Friday. Agus Dwikarna is still in custody pending the completion of his investigation.

The decision to release Tamsil Linrung and Abdul Jamal Balfas came from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, not from the court. This is because in the Philippines, the president has the authority to free suspects who are proven innocent. It was also the result of government-to-government lobbying.

We must respect the laws of other countries. However, Indonesia has to defend and protect its citizens mistreated in another country.

In terms of protecting its citizens abroad, this country has a bad reputation. Listen to the many sad stories of overseas contract workers who are often powerless in facing their employer's cruelty.

This has made us feel that the state is way up there in the sky and that protection is only for the priveleged gods.

It is time for the state to act as a big umbrella for its citizens, to protect them both at home and abroad.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta