EDITORIAL PAGE — Indonesia recognizes the need for change

Indonesia’s economic and political regime may seem relatively stable, but recent anti-government riots in the streets of Jakarta suggest otherwise.

The country is experiencing an economic boom, as evidenced by the rash of construction taking place in the major cities, as well as in many of the less populated parts of the island chain. At the same time, this flurry of economic activity has induced the country’s citizens to aspire toward a higher standard of living.

Indonesia clearly has what it takes to fulfill this aspiration, including an abundance of natural resources and industrial expertise, and a constitution that recognizes cultural and religious differences. Moreover, the division between rich and poor is bridged by a sizable middle class.

Yet, unfortunately, the country’s struggle for political stability has been hampered, for too many years, by entrenched interests fearful of change.

Politicians exercise too much control over commercial activity and the military, resulting in repressive measures that inhibit competition in the business and political sectors. The festering resentment of the Indonesian people flared up during the recent riots, which erupted after the government of President Suharto refused to recognize an opposition party leader.

The civil unrest comes on the heels of a previous bout of uncertainty brought about by Suharto’s advancing age and health problems. Domestic markets were recently spooked when the President visited Europe for medical reasons, though he was reportedly given a clean bill of health.

At the moment, there seems little danger of a political revolution.

Dissidents are closely monitored by the military, and the population is generally orderly, nationalistic and proud of their economic accomplishments.

Yet, unless at least some of the aspirations of the Indonesian people are met, full-scale civil unrest could conceivably flare up in the future.

Fortunately, there are encouraging signs that forces within the system are adopting a more progressive outlook.

As an example, the country’s labor minister recently won the support of the business community for offering to raise the minimum wage. He accomplished this minor miracle by boldly suggesting that business could afford higher labor costs if government were to reduce the burden of “unofficial payments.” According to local press reports, Suharto has indicated support for the plan, which, if adopted, would greatly improve the lot of the country’s workforce.

In the interest of stability, we hope the political leadership of Indonesia will continue to demonstrate a commitment to sharing political and economic power with its citizens. After all, benevolence is said to be part of the nation’s cultural tradition.