More Than Freedom

Could and should Indonesia become the Muslim world ' s democratic exemplar?
I have tried to play a role, and Indonesia has always tried to demonstrate and project moderate Islam. Indonesia is not immune to the radicalism, but this is exactly why we must maintain our identity as a moderate, tolerant nation. It enables us to prevent a clash of civilizations and instead ensure harmony among civilizations.

Indonesia ' s counterterrorism record is impressive. What lessons does it offer other countries?
At the national level we [must] create a climate that rejects extremism and radicalism through education. Empowerment of moderate religious leaders is also critical. Tactically, we must be tough when combating terrorism. [That requires] very good intelligence, police work and the ability to discover and disband terrorist cells. We [also] need to avoid political noise. To talk about terrorism every day in my office would be counterproductive. And our court system needs to be very transparent, so we have a good record not just in catching terrorists but also in respecting human rights.

What report card would you give yourself, after four years in office?
First, our democracy is stronger, more vibrant and increasingly mature. [Some] countries are going back to authoritarianism, but Indonesia is not reversing course. We have resolved security issues through peaceful, nonmilitary means. We are dealing successfully with communal conflicts. Indonesia has suffered several large-scale natural disasters like the 2004 tsunami, and we have undertaken reconstruction and rehabilitation in a very speedy way. Some people say our anti-corruption campaign is the most aggressive in Indonesian history. Last but not least, over the last seven quarters Indonesia's economy achieved growth above 6 percent and our poverty rate is at its lowest level in ten years.

What remains to be done?
We must keep up the effort to reduce poverty and unemployment. We must create a good climate for doing business in Indonesia. Our legal framework has to be improved. I'm still not satisfied with our efforts [to promote] bureaucratic reform and good governance. I know we can get much better. Lastly, we need to be open-minded. We should shun our xenophobic tendencies and evolve into a nation with a moderate character.

© 2008