Two turning points in 2002

The year 2002 will, unfortunately, be remembered by many for the bombs in Bali, and tragic as that incident was, it could also be viewed as the horrendous event that turned the scales on terrorism. On a far brighter note, eyes turn towards the province of Aceh where, at long last, a peace has been formulated that appears to have a very good chance of succeeding. Two opposite sentiments, both of which have their own tragic story to tell, but turning points nonetheless.

There are indeed positive signs suggesting that Indonesia is seriously addressing the ever-growing scourge of Islamic radicals that can so easily destabilize this country and the world economies. It is still too early to pass judgment on what has occurred over the past few months, bearing in mind that history, both recent and past, tells us that a backwards slide has often happened after initial progress.

The war against terrorism and the fragile peace in Aceh need a show of equal determination, so as to maintain and to build upon the substantial progress that has already been made. There are some people in this country who, for various reasons, want both situations to fail, and for sure they are now busy making their evil plans. They have an agenda that is focused purely on destruction, and the only way to combat this is through resilience and a determination that they will not succeed.

Let us all hope that the turning points of 2002 continue throughout the coming year, so by the time we reach the end of 2003 we all have something to celebrate.

Happy New Year Indonesia.

DAVID WALLIS, Medan