ocehan siang bolong

I went to Bogor this weekend to attend a wedding of my distant niece - along with my dad, uncles, aunt and cousin. My favorite uncle, who had his fair share of travelling, told us about different public policies in France, Singapore, and Australia during our drive to the wedding. It got me into wondering whether our beloved country, Indonesia, isn't actually a very poor country. Sure, our economy fared better than most Asian countries during the 2008 (or was it 2009?) economic meltdown. But I'm not talking specifically about economic results, I'd rather wondering about this country's priorities and how to manage them in the long-term.

First, let me tell you about France policy concerning children's education. France government impose their people to send their kids to school. Parents who don't have enough money will be supported by the government, by paying their children's tuition and providing the required school supplies (books, stationaries, etc.). Those who don't obey this regulation will be executed by law.

Now let's compare that policy to our policies in children's education. You, my friend, might be strongly familiar with the 'Wajib Belajar 9 Tahun' program. Yes, it's similar with the previous policy I've told you about. But in practice, it's not an imposing regulation. It's just the government's suggestion. If you can't provide your children with tuition fee, you still can send your kids to government-subsidized school or grab a scholarship (as if the bureaucracy in getting one doesn't stress you out enough). The supplies? Well, sorry sir, the government already paid the tuition fee and they're sure you're resourceful and crafty enough for providing the supplies. Or maybe just rely on other people's kindness to give you the supplies you need.

I mean, really, dear government officials, that is a well thought out plan.

And it doesn't stop right there. I bet you also know about how other countries are willing to support its people who are below the poverty line (is there a formal term for "di bawah garis kemiskinan?") These countries will provide food, housing and clothes (even social security and health care) to those in need. Although it's not always well-conducted, at least their governments put what they promise into practice.

Why? Because they have the necessary funding to support their poor.

Now hold it right there. I know some of you will start thinking that it's all because of corruption or political interest.

Even if our government stop being a bunch of corrupt pigs or abandon their political game for the sake of our nation, I still doubt Indonesia have adequate funding to provide basic needs for its poor. First, our financial planning is not exactly designed for long-term planning (and that the majority of our population is still very keen on short-term investments and instant results). Second, Indonesia can't even provide itself its basic needs to grow - in term of infrastructure, investments, and human resource (and by which I mean education). We got a looooongg way to go before all the poor can have decent lives.

But that's just my opinion. I lack knowledge about how the real stuffs work in our government, so if anyone can add their thoughts and experiences, I'd be more than happy to oblige. And I hope during my lifetime, I can finally see every poor in Indonesia get his and her well-deserved fundings.