81 Years of Independence, FWK reminds the Government to be more sensitive to public concerns

JAKARTA - The National Journalists Forum or FWK highlighted the public's concerns ahead of Indonesia's 81 years of independence. Problems of job termination, unemployment, declining income, basic necessities, and law enforcement were of concern in the national discussion.

The discussion with the theme of reflection on the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia discussed the condition of nationality and the future direction of Indonesia.

A.R. Loebis said the momentum of independence needs to be used to re-examine the thoughts of the founders of the nation as well as strengthen nationalism among the younger generation.

According to Loebis, FWK did not attend to discuss certain figures, but rather discussed the problems and future of the nation.

More sharp criticism was delivered by former Deputy Chairman of the Press Council, Hendry Ch Bangun. He highlighted people in President Prabowo Subianto's circle who he considered still lacked experience in governing the country.

Hendry assessed that this condition risks making the presidential aide busier pleasing the boss than building a strong work orientation for the benefit of the country.

He also reminded that this condition could trigger apathy if the community sees that the management of the country is not running competently.

The discussion also discussed a number of government programs, including Free Nutritious Meals or MBG and the Red and White Village Cooperative or KDMP.

Participants also highlighted law enforcement, which was considered to still tend to be sharp downwards and blunt upwards.

Economic problems are another concern. The discussion noted the unrest against waves of layoffs, high unemployment, declining income, and the price of basic necessities which are considered to continue to burden the community.

In the forum, the view emerged that political independence has not been fully followed by the living conditions that are felt better by all people.

Therefore, FWK encourages the government to be more sensitive to public unrest and issues that directly affect daily life.

Present in the discussion were VOI Editor-in-Chief Iqbal Irsyad, former Kompas Editor M. Nasir, and a number of senior journalists, including Budi Nugraha, Tatang Suherman, Sigit Setiono, Herwan Pebriansyah, Rudi Sitompul, Elwan Charisma, Fajar Ridwan Rahmat, Junie Rakhmat, and Mukhsin.