Monday, June 06, 2016

"Indonesia Panggung Sandiwara" by Taufiq Effendi

Continuing the quest for Indonesia-themed book, I came across this book in the library. The title was intriguing, so I picked it up.

Turns out it might be one of the best books I've read!

Oh I adore this book, writing style-wise and content wise. It was a compilations of articles Taufiq Effendi had published in various Indonesian media, talking about social phenomenons in Indonesia, ranging from politics, regulations, human rights, corruptions, etc.

I might be a little biased by the topic, but I think Taufiq Effendy hit all the right marks! And this book is exactly what Indonesia needs --> a sharp evaluation of the (current) situations, stated in a very blunt, straightforward way, point-by-point, and with examples. It was easy to read and follow, and it definitely will open your eyes.

My fav point:
corruption is not Indonesia's culture! It was something that we need to, and we can, drive out of our country and our system. How? By creating an effective system that will help people avoid corruption.

Corruption happens not because the people are poor. People are poor because of corruption!

Values are taught at home, at school, and in the community. Religion also plays a part. Every one is responsible, and everyone is 'to blame' when things/people go down the wrong way.

Law, human rights, and democracy cannot be separated from each other (in Indonesia). They are each others' structure, boundary, and support.

And lots more!!!


I love how light yet heavy this book is. With such discussions of topics, the tone of the book was not heavy at all. Nor is it didactic. It was encouraging. It was 'nudging' with just the right pressure.

I learned a lot -- like, a lot -- and I tried to take notes but there was just so many things that I've learned that it was hard to keep track! :p (Although, some points in the book were repeated as they were published  in different media & at different times.)

Now I'm conflicted whether to buy Habibie's book or this one :p
Aaahh!

But it's a good dilemma, no?
Will definitely want to read this one again & discover more.

CHEERS!
-*^^*-

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