Sat, 18 May 1996

The strength of the President

I followed the whole coverage of the funeral of First Lady Tien Soeharto on the national television station. I was deeply moved by President Soeharto at the ceremony. He looked very mournful for he had lost his beloved one. Mrs. Tien had been part of his life. She was his greatest supporter and was always beside him.

I could sense what a shocking blow it must have been to the President. Yet, he showed us dignity and strength in such deep grief. I realized then that he is a strong man.

Soeharto has led this country for almost 30 years and has turned it into a fast growing nation in terms of economy and politics. I am proud of our President. I think he is a man of great leadership. We love him and share his sorrow. May God give him strength and guidance. There are a lot of other things to be done for this country in order to gain a good reputation in the world. Our support is with him.

JENNY LAURITZ KHOENG

Jakarta