This is a comment on a letter send by Susi Johnston titled "A plan for Bali is expected" (the Post, June 4)
Let's look at it from a slightly different perspective. I absolutely agree with what Susi's thought about the central government. However, it is fair to ask what corporations have done for the Balinese?
They operate big business in Bali and gain profit from them. And, take less responsibility for the Balinese.
It is important to note that tourism assets in Bali amount to Rp 150 trillion and only 6 percent belong to the Balinese and, interestingly, 20 percent of Balinese people are supposed to live in poverty.
What I think is, if corporations that get the benefits from conducting business in Bali would like to sustain their businesses, it is necessary for them to act more responsibly by initiating the provision of infrastructure, more scholarships and training, especially for small businesses, market access and financial aid, health care and building mutual partnerships with government to achieve sustainable community development as well.
Corporations need to change the paradigm that corporate social responsibility is a cost, so there is no CSR activity when the economy suffers a crisis.
CSR should be viewed as long-term investment toward corporate and tourism sustainability itself.
Yusri
Jakarta
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