Waste from Singapore

Waste from Singapore

From Kompas

With reference with the recommendation from the state minister of environment to the effect that Bangka island will be made a dumping site for waste from Singapore, I, an Indonesian hailing from Bangka island, cannot help feeling sad and disappointed to learn that our country, where waste-related problems are far from being solved, is kind enough to receive another country's waste.

Must thousands of Indonesian be sacrificed in the interests of a handful of people? And is it proper for Panangian Siregar to assume the post of state minister of environment -- a position that should make him responsible for sustainable conservation of the environment in this country -- because he has issued a license so easily for this waste dumping yet in an interview recently about this matter he said that he did not quite understand the problem?

The mayor of Pangkalpinang, whom the local people have entrusted to act on their behalf, should protect the community by rejecting waste harmful to the environment and the people of Bangka.

When will our country be rid of corrupt, collusive and nepotistic practices? When will justice be upheld in this country? And when will an opportunity be given to those who give their best to the state and the nation regardless of their own individual interests?

DIAN F

Jakarta