Unitary state must be defended

The latest developments in Indonesia have aroused considerable concern, with the nation facing various issues, notably political and economic stability. The oft-criticized negotiations with the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) were followed by the rupiah's depreciation and even a Cabinet reshuffle rumor.

The government, now still in its early years, should be responsive to the different national problems, while observers should be wise in expressing their views, so they become constructive suggestions instead of antagonism.

On the other hand, all citizens should be aware of international interests and conspiracies amid recent changes. When Indonesia was negotiating with GAM, we were surprised by an American statement favoring Papua's freedom from the unitary state, though the government is yet to pay more attention to this region.

It was obviously a small part of the disguised agenda of several "international mafia" groups, which are always desirous of controlling wealth in Indonesia's resource-rich islands at low costs, naturally by first turning them into independent states.

It is the duty of the whole nation to be critical of international interests that attempt to undermine the unitary state of Indonesia (NKRI). Therefore, support should be given to the Indonesian Military, which is expected to show its devotion to the state by defending NKRI.

M. FAIZIN Jakarta