We need a leader who has sensitifity

A state leader is on the frontline, directing his/her countrymen which way to go at crossroads, sending a glimmer of light to those in the dark.

A leader should also be able to show sympathy and spirit when his/her people are in utter misery.

It is in this light that a leader is required to have sensitivity and empathy for other people's situation.

The same is true with the leader of Indonesia. A leader would be nothing if he/she trusts on his might and power alone without any sensitivity to what his people are enduring.

Indeed, this country has yet to have a leader who is able to understand the people's sufferings.

A clear example before our eyes is the extent of the sympathy of this country's leader to the flood victims in Bahorok subdistrict, Langkat district in North Sumatra province.

What we deeply deplore is that President Megawati Soekarnoputri was too late in expressing her condolences to the families of the victims. We wonder why. Wasn't she moved by the dreadful disaster which has claimed hundreds of lives?

Megawati did certainly send her husband, Taufiq Kiemas, and a number of officials to Langkat to get firsthand information on the disaster, but her presence at the flood-hit area was badly needed.

The presence of a president in the midst of his suffering people will do good, like cool water to thirsty souls.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta