Assistance for Bengkulu

The recent magnitude 7.9 earthquake that rocked Bengkulu destroyed a number of buildings and claimed human lives. It is now time to show concern for the quake victims of Bengkulu.

Chairwoman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) Megawati Soekarnoputri has sent the party's disaster control team to Bengkulu in solidarity with victims.

Two ambulances, four physicians and 12 paramedics plus two trucks of medical and food supplies have been dispatched.

Historical bonds indeed exist between Bengkulu and Megawati because her mother Fatmawati came from Bengkulu. But certainly Megawati's quick response to the disaster was not only for this reason, but also mainly due to her deep concern and high sense of social solidarity.

Megawati's move should serve as a good example for national leaders in order to show greater attention to citizens in distress.

In the case of mutual assistance and relief aid, we should not rely too much on the government, particularly because the government has not properly performed its public welfare duty yet.

MUHAMAD DONG
Tangerang, Banten