P

olitics is believed to be a dirty game by some, but regardless, one thing remains true: One must act diplomatically as a politician.

Diplomatic conduct is not limited only to those in the world of international affairs, but it is more an expectation from politicians by the public. As representatives of a large number of a country’s population, behavior can shape a person’s image, and image is of relatively high importance in politics.  

A couple of days have passed by since the massive public uproar regarding plans of an increased oil price. It is also a reminder of what happened during the meeting in the House of Representatives in which all members voted to either support or go against the proposed plan.

Having witnessed what went on inside the assembly on television, embarrassment and shame are two likely words that sum up what happened inside that meeting. The shame was that the so-called people’s representatives acted less like politicians and instead embarrassed themselves. These are the very same people who are supposed to act professionally — but they didn’t.

If anything, I have seen better diplomatic conduct carried out by today’s upcoming generation during various Model United Nations (MUN) events. Most certainly such events follow the likes of a real United Nations meeting or assembly, thus it is rare to witness what Indonesians witnessed a couple of days ago with their state representatives. The number of MUN events has gained popularity and its popularity has been maintained as more universities abroad, as well as in Indonesia, host the events.

One of the long-standing MUN events in Indonesia is Parahyangan Model United Nations, which was created in 2005 and has continued since then. Every year the event gains more momentum and prestige as it continues to cooperate with the Indonesian Foreign Ministry in successfully carrying out the event. This year, Parahyangan Model United Nations will take place on April 27-29 and the assembly itself will once again take place in the historical Asia-Africa Conference Museum in Bandung.

The unique, innovative and educational program that is incorporated within the event has attracted an increasing number of high school students every year. By paying a fee of around Rp. 1,200,000, participants will be given information and knowledge of how to be diplomats, but will also be immersed in a table session with experienced guests from the field of international relations and affairs, lecturers and NGOs.

The annual support by the Indonesian Foreign Ministry toward events such as the Parahyangan Model United Nations in Indonesia can be credited to the outstanding performance of diplomatic acts and conduct from the upcoming generation in this country.

The professionalism seen by the participants and the committee should be taken into consideration by the politicians of Indonesia today. Somehow it should be apparent that shouting and chaos are far less effective than staying composed, and, well, diplomatic. Perhaps it is time for Indonesian politicians to start paying attention to what an effective, cooperative and conducive meeting can lead to, which is real results.

Cantika Paramitha R.
Bandung