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May
The Spirit of Unity in the 110th Commemoration of National Awakening
Written by Maryati
National awakening is a moment of arousing the sense and spirit of unity, nationalism and awareness to fight for the independence of a country. In Indonesia, the National Awakening is commemorated every May 20th. 110 years ago, precisely in 1908, Dr. Soetomo and several students of STOVIA, the School of Doctor Education in the Dutch colonial era, founded a youth organization called ‘Boedi Oetomo’.Forty years later or in 1948, President Sukarno set May 20th as the insurgence day of nationalism.
Boedi Oetomo is a social, economic and cultural organization instead of political one. The establishment of Budi Utomo became the beginning of a movement aimed at achieving Indonesian independence. Boedi Oetomo became a marker that the Indonesian people for the first time realized the importance of unity. Being united is a key word when Indonesians want to achieve noble ideals. Boedi Oetomo has provided an example of how to assemble and organize without seeing the matters related to tribes, religions and groups. At the end, all of these could encourage the growing spirit of nationalism that became the main engine of achieving independence.
What would happen if awareness of being united did not nurture among the Indonesian people at the time? Now, a hundred and ten years later, the Indonesian nation has grown into a great and developing nation, parallel to some countries. The people of Indonesia have enjoyed the results of their heroes’ struggle in the form of improved economy, health, and education. Boedi Oetomo was established by several people who were aware of the importance of being united. From those people, the occurrence of unity spread to become a capital for the Indonesian nation and finally, this achieved independence. If 110 years ago, the Indonesian people who did not have anything but the spirit, could be united to achieve the common goal, namely independence.
Thus now, the spirit of being united must keep being enlivened. More importantly, Indonesia is going to carry out political years: Regional Head Election (Pilkada) in 2018 and Presidential Election in 2019 that are vulnerable to pose conflicts due to differences of choice among Indonesian people.
May
Prior to the month of Ramadan, the prices of staple food in some regions in Indonesia have skyrocketed. For the majority of the Muslim population of Indonesia, the month of Ramadan is the holy month when they are obliged to fast every day for one month. After Ramadan, there is Idul Fitri or Lebaran Day which is the biggest feast in Indonesia. The problem is that during the month of Ramadan, food consumption tends to increase. Most of Indonesian people, especially Muslims think that during Ramadan they need to improve nutrition and quality of food to balance the obligations of fasting. On Idul Fitri day like great days in other countries, people usually provide the best dishes for families and friends. So, the increase in food prices is not a new thing for Indonesian people. This is like a "tradition". Despite the availability of stock and smooth distribution of food such rice or meat, the prices are already "automatically" rising, as if the prices of basic necessities both prior to Ramadan, during Ramadan and post-Idul Fitri should rise.
Director General of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health at the Ministry of Agriculture, I Ketut Diarmita said that chicken meat is sufficient before the fasting month and Idul Fitri 2018 and even, the chicken eggs are surplus. Meanwhile, Director General of Horticulture of the Ministry of Agriculture Suwandi said that the supply of chili from the harvest in South Sumatera, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, and other regions could become sources ahead of Ramadan.
Based on these calculations, Diarmita pointed out that there should be no price increase because there is sufficient stock. But the reality is quite different. The government's claim on the availability of basic commodities does not seem to undermine traders' intentions, especially retailers in traditional markets to raise the prices.
The price of one chicken in Kramat Jati Market, Jakarta slowly has moved up since last week and is expected to continue to increase until Idul Fitri. In Pasar Baru of Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi, the basic commodity prices have even gone up over the last two weeks. The prices of some commodities in Inpres and Lhokseumawe markets also increase.
Generally, the cause of the price increase is that there is an increasing demand. However, sometimes the reasons for Indonesian traders to raise prices seem absurd. For example, prior to Lebaran Day, government employees and companies and workers usually receive a holiday allowance or bonus. So, this is considered fair if the traders take advantage of additional benefits as well.
The government needs to conduct market operations to ensure sufficient stock and the prices cannot be manipulated by the merchants, let alone make it as tradition.
May
Today Thursday, May 17, 2018, all Muslims in Indonesia and other parts of the world begin to perform fasting. The first day of fasting takes place shortly after a series of terrorist attacks in Surabaya, and Sidoarjo, East Java Province, which killed a total of 14 people. Regardless of whether or not there is a direct connection between the act of the terrorists and the month of Ramadan, the actions to terrorize the public may be said to "fail". This can be seen from the crowds of people who shop for the needs in the early Ramadan in crowded places, such as shopping malls or traditional markets and entertainment venues. Similar crowds are also seen in mosques or Mushallas filled with people performing the first Tarawih prayers.
Ramadan is a glorious month and a blessing for Muslims. During this Ramadan, all Muslims are obliged to fulfill fasting in a broad sense. They must be able to retrain from not only hunger, thirst but also anger and passion not to consume excessive food. Those who are fasting are strictly forbidden to commit sin, let alone killing someone.
The Indonesian Ulema Council -MUI appeals for Indonesian Muslims to make the holy month of Ramadan a moment of self-improvement. MUI also asked for the public to do a lot of social activities.
Ramadan is an excellent momentum to develop an attitude of tolerance in the practice of religion, not to be trapped in conflict and dispute because of differences in religions, especially after the recent occurrence of a series of terror acts in Surabaya, East Java.
Ramadan is the perfect time for Muslims to enlighten other followers of religions about the true meaning of 'Islam'. Islam never teaches to do something evil.
At the National Halaqah Hubul Wathon and the Declaration of the National Movement of Muballigh Bela Negara at Pondok Gede Hajj Dormitory in East Jakarta, Monday (14/5), President Joko Widodo emphasized that Islam never teaches violence, not to mention teaching terror among people. He views that Islam actually teaches its people to be gentle, polite, and respectful to others. Therefore, it is proper that Ramadan can be used as a momentum to create peace and tranquility in the community.
May
The opening of the US Embassy in Jerusalem, that caused dozens of Palestinians dead, has sparked an international reaction. The European Union, for example, has urged all parties to exercise restraint. In the Gaza Strip more than 50 Palestinians in protests were killed, fired by Israeli soldiers, and over 2000 were wounded. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has urged Israel to respect the right to peaceful protests by Palestinians. The decision of US President Donald Trump to open the Embassy in Jerusalem, has certainly caused a new conflict. But Donald Trump wouldn’t change it because this is one of his campaign promises when running for president. Israel, which feels it gets a real support of the United States, is using weapons to tackle the demos of Palestinians in Gaza near the border of the Palestinian territory and Israel. The European Union has clearly called on Israel to end the violence and the shooting of Palestinian protesters. The EU has asked for immediate diplomatic steps in the wake of talks between Palestinians and Israelis. In a statement when he decided to move US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, President Donald Trump stated that his policy was to pave the way for new negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians. The problem is, Palestine and some other countries have declared not recognizing the United States as mediator of Israel and Palestine. The question then, which country will soon take the initiative to replace the United States? Whatever the attitude and decision of the United States is, it has made Israel feel the upper hand. This can be seen from the brutal action of shooting the protesters in the Gaza Strip. Only world solidarity towards Palestine that can actually repress Israel to immediately stop its brutal action.
May
The people of Indonesia, especially the people of Surabaya, East Java are shocked with the action of suicide bombing. Three suicide bombings took place in the churches of the Immaculate Santa Marian, Central Pentecostal Church, and GKI Church. At least, 11 people died, and more than 40 people were injured and needed special treatment. Criticism and curse were directed to suicide bombers. Even, President Joko Widodo called this act of terror as a barbaric act, beyond the limits of humanity. What makes people more furious at the perpetrators is the involvement of children in this suicide bombing act. The target of this terror is the houses of worship. As a result, some people condemn this action on the name of a religion. The unity of Indonesia is re-tested.
The hope is that this act of terror does not make religious people accuse each other. The religious followers must not make verbal war in social media to blame one another. Of course, this tragedy is hoped to strengthen the brotherhood among religious people in Indonesia, to jointly to face acts of terrorism. President Joko Widodo, Chief of Indonesian National Police (Polri) –Tito Karnavian, Chief of Indonesian Military –TNI, Hadi Tjahjanto and a number of ministers came to check out the location.
On the occasion, President Joko Widodo emphasized that terrorism has nothing to do with any religion. The Indonesian government has a tough task to address the roots of terrorism in Indonesia. The government must be able to carry out thorough investigation relating to acts of terrorism such as the recruitment and the source of funds for each of the terrorists’ acts. It’s expected that there are no longer new recruitment and brain-washing of prospective terrorists who voluntarily conduct acts of terror, despite committing suicide by oneself or her/his family. Indonesia's alertness to all acts of terror should be further enhanced. Moreover this year, there is regional election in several provinces, cities and regencies. There are Asian Games that will be attended by more than 40 countries, the annual meeting of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. It is the task of all stakeholders of the Indonesian nation to create and maintain security across Indonesia. May the terror act in Surabaya, East Java be the last one!
May
The history of Malaysia is no longer the same. After 60 years in power, Barisan Nasional, which is a 13-party coalition with UMNO as one of the strongest parties in Malaysia, has to relinquish its power to the opposition. In the general election held on Wednesday (May 9, 2018), Barisan Nasional had to compete against Pakatan Harapan, which consists of 4 parties. As a result, the people of Malaysia gave their support to Pakatan Harapan which obtained 113 seats. With the addition of the coalition of parties in Borneo, the total is 121 seats. While Barisan Nasional could only manage 79 seats. Former Prime Minister of Malaysia, Najib Tun Razak who led the Barisan Nasional admitted this defeat. However, in the matter of leadership, the problem is not yet fully completed. If calculated per party, no party controls an absolute majority without a coalition. The opposition parties incorporated in Pakatan Harapan, obviously will not share its power with Barisan Nasional. The defeat of Barisan Nasional can not be separated from the Malaysian people lack of trust to Najib Tun Razak figure, who is perceived not to run the mandate properly. Like in the case of an alleged major corruption scandal that affects one of Malaysia's state-owned enterprises, 1 MDB. Reportedly Najib Razak received huge amounts of money from it, although this was denied by him. However, Mahathir Mohammad, who was once the Prime Minister of Malaysia and now the coalition leader, did not automatically become Prime Minister after the Election. After the vote count, Malaysia is still not fully out of the leadership crisis, since no party has absolute majority. Razak submitted the matter to Yang Ditertuan Agung, Sultan Muhamad V, as the Head of State of Malaysia. Finally, Mahatir Mohammad took the oath as the 7th Prime Minister of Malaysia, at the State Palace at around 10 pm on Thursday. Although there were rumors that the Palace was less pleased with Mahatir because he often criticized the kingdom. Earlier coalition leaders met Yang Dipertuan Agung to ensure that Mahatir can be sworn in to lead Malaysia. The voice of Malaysians who give trust to the Pakatan Hope Coalition to lead the country should be supported. Leadership of Malaysia under the 92-year-old Mahatir Mohammad, in this period, should be able to bring positive hope to Malaysia. Because any political crisis that hit the country, will certainly affect the regional conditions in the ASEAN region and Indonesia.
May
Vladimir Putin officially returned to the Russian presidency after winning the March 18 election. Putin took his oath Monday, May 7, 2018 in an event attended by at least 5,000 people in the Kremlin. Entering his fourth term, Vladirmir Putin reiterated his commitment to answer the country's survey results that show that there is still a wide gap between the rich and the poor in the country. His opponents, who held a demonstration against him during his last presidency said that Vladimir Putin ruled Russia as the Tsars or kings in the past. In contrast, supporters, in addition to praising his success in leading Russia, also believe that Vladimir Putin, now 65, will be able to increase Russia's role in the international arena. His victory in recent elections has made Vladimir Putin hold the post of Russian President for the fourth time. Despite a one-time absence, Vladimir Putin has been in Russia’s top position for the last 18 years. Putin served as Russia's President first in 2000 and was elected for the second time in 2004.Because the law prohibits a president from serving more than two consecutive terms, in 2008 Putin resigned. He then became prime minister under President Dmitry Medvedev. After serving as Prime Minister, Putin ran again for President, and was elected in the 2012 elections. He was in office until 2018 when he was re-elected with 76 percent votes in elections. For Putin’s success in becoming the president for the fourth time, US President Donald Trump, reportedly has congratulated him. Despite his winning 76 percent of the votes, some Russian people showed opposition to Putin by demonstrating at least in 19 cities. Police have arrested at least 1000 protesters ahead of the inauguration. Whether the hopes and optimism of most Russian citizens will be realized, or the concerns of those who oppose him will become a reality, only time will show.
May
The Asian Games 2018 is going to take place in Jakarta and Palembang for a few months to come. But seemingly, President Joko Widodo has not been satisfied with the promotion of this international event that has not been carried out at maximum. In a limited meeting at Bogor Presidential Palace in West Java on April 18 and at Presidential Office in Jakarta on 4 May, President Joko Widodo reminded that the 18th Asian Games does not become a fever amidst the Indonesian community. The President asks the echo of the Asian Games to resound throughout Indonesia. Indeed, the Asian Games is an event with the national and international scale; it does not belong to the host cities: Jakarta and Palembang.
In response to the President's criticism of the promotion of the Asian Games, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of Asian Games Indonesia –Inasgoc, Erick Thohir said that the role of state institutions is very important in promoting the Asian Games. On the sidelines of the 2018 Asian Games entitled "BRI Sunday Fest" in Jakarta on last Sunday (6/5), Erick expressed his hope that state institutions such as TVRI and RRI must play a major role in promoting the Asian Games. In addition, the Indonesian National Police -Polri must guarantee the security during the event. He views that both state media have wide network throughout Indonesia and the Polri also have professional personnel to safeguard the 18th Asian Games.
To promote the Asian Games 2018 which will take place on August 18 to September 2 is the common responsibility of all state institutions, including the Indonesian Armed Forces –TNI, Polri and the general public. Both TNI and Polri have the main task to maintain security in the implementation of the Asian Games. The Ministry of Youth and Sports and Inasgoc must take advantage of many channels in addition to expecting state agencies to promote in short time ahead. Schools, social media and private institutions should also cooperate to further intensify the promotion of the 2018 Asian Games.
May
The Asian Games 2018 is going to take place in Jakarta and Palembang for a few months to come. But seemingly, President Joko Widodo has not been satisfied with the promotion of this international event that has not been carried out at maximum. In a limited meeting at Bogor Presidential Palace in West Java on April 18 and at Presidential Office in Jakarta on 4 May, President Joko Widodo reminded that the 18th Asian Games does not become a fever amidst the Indonesian community. The President asks the echo of the Asian Games to resound throughout Indonesia. Indeed, the Asian Games is an event with the national and international scale; it does not belong to the host cities: Jakarta and Palembang.
In response to the President's criticism of the promotion of the Asian Games, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of Asian Games Indonesia – Inasgoc, Erick Thohir said that the role of state institutions is very important in promoting the Asian Games. On the sidelines of the 2018 Asian Games entitled "BRI Sunday Fest" in Jakarta on last Sunday (6/5), Erick expressed his hope that state institutions such as TVRI and RRI must play a major role in promoting the Asian Games. In addition, the Indonesian National Police - Polri must guarantee the security during the event. He views that both state media have wide network throughout Indonesia and the Polri also have professional personnel to safeguard the 18th Asian Games.
To promote the Asian Games 2018 which will take place on August 18 to September 2 is the common responsibility of all state institutions, including the Indonesian Armed Forces –TNI, Polri and the general public. Both TNI and Polri have the main task to maintain security in the implementation of the Asian Games. The Ministry of Youth and Sports and Inasgoc must take advantage of many channels in addition to expecting state agencies to promote in short time ahead. Schools, social media and private institutions should also cooperate to further intensify the promotion of the 2018 Asian Games.
May
The ancestors of Indonesia were excellent sailors. Not surprisingly, Indonesia is the largest archipelagic country with the second longest coastline in the world. It is a maritime country or a country surrounded by oceans. Approximately, two-third (2/3) of Indonesia's territory is sea. With such a large and wide coverage, of course Indonesia's sea deposits biodiversity of marine natural resources both biological and non-biological resources with high value. In addition, the Indonesian sea also has much potential that can be utilized. Take for example; there are marine tourism and renewable and non-renewable sources, such as oil and gas, rare minerals and the sea can also be used as an inter-island transportation that is very economical. Historically, Indonesian nation is characterized by maritime history that starts from the western region to the central and eastern archipelago. Long before independence, Indonesia was already known to the world as a nation that has advanced in maritime civilization. The history records that Indonesian seafarers have sailed away by the outrigger ships. By using a simple navigational tool, they were able to sail north, then west to cut the Indian Ocean up to Madagascar and continue east to Easter Island. But the maritime spirit became faded when Indonesia experienced colonization by the Dutch colonial government. Lifestyle and orientation of the nation were "changed" from maritime to agrarian orientation. To revive Indonesia's maritime culture, Indonesian National Navy -TNI AL from 4 to 9 May 2018 held ‘Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo’ -MNEK 2018 in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara -NTB. This multilateral exercise has been held for the third time, and it was followed by 36 Navies from different parts of the world. The navy exercise featured 15 sophisticated warships from the participating countries along with Indonesia’s 36 Naval Warships, 11 transports and combat aircraft. This exercise was also followed by more than 5,500 troops. As a country with large sea territory, Indonesia should also have a powerful navy with capable and strong personnel and its main weapon system equipment -Alutsista is sophisticated. This multilateral naval exercise is expected to improve the strength of Indonesian Navy. In addition, it is also expected to revive Indonesia's maritime culture y showing to the world that Indonesia was once a maritime country to be reckoned.
