JAKARTA: Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto has said that criticism should be welcomed, as it is essential to preserve and strengthen democracy in Indonesia.
“We are strong because of strong rebuttals on us. If we are mere ‘yes men,’ responding ‘yes sir, yes sir’ to every instruction from the leader, the ruler, or the government, it is not good,” Subianto underlined during the National Working Meeting of Batak organisation Punguan Simbolon dohot Boruna Indonesia (PSBI) here.
At the assembly that united individuals with the surname Simbolon, which belongs to the Batak people from North Sumatra, he said that criticism is a form of check and balance, which is also crucial for preserving democracy.
“Sometimes, when we are reminded, we are resentful, as well as when being criticised. However, it saves us and secures us. It is beneficial for all of us,” the minister said.
Subianto also highlighted the importance of preserving national independence and maintaining harmony in the country, particularly as this is easier said than done.
“Bhinneka tunggal ika (unity in diversity) should always be preserved, and we should not forget that the purpose of our independence, besides protecting the Indonesian nation, is also to make our people and nation prosperous and intelligent,” he said.
Meanwhile, PSBI chairperson Effendi Simbolon, on the sidelines of the agenda, said that the organisation decided to invite Subianto, in his capacity as defence minister, to enlighten participants about national defence during the assembly.
He highlighted that people are an essential component of the Universal People’s Defence and Security System (Sishankamrata), the national defence doctrine.
“Today, we are one of the national defence elements as the basis of national defence is the people itself,” he stated.
