Simon Patrice Morin is a member of house representative from Papua since 1992. He has been involved in decentralization process of Papua.
I: Handi and Nathanael Sutanto; SPM: Simon Patrice Morin
I: Would decentralization results in segregation or separation from Indonesia?
SPM: No, decentralization actually addresses problems that occur due to centralization during the New Regime. Centralization by the old regime causes many regions to be neglected and suppressed from opportunities to improve and develop themselves. Decentralization, on the other hand, gives the decision making power back to the regional government. Although it is a good idea, due to the poor implementation process, the people were not adequately equipped with skills to develop their human resources and infrastructure. There were only handful of regions that have successfully capitalizes on decentralization program.
I: Do you familiar with many separatist in Indonesia based on the religion?
SPM: Certain groups of people have an assumption that if the country is governed by a certain religious beliefs then the condition would be better. Unfortunately, these thoughts would not be applicable in Indonesia because of the diversified Indonesian society. This sectarian thought is a direct challenge to the country’s ideology or Pancasila. I believe we are now at a crossroad on how we can implement Pancasila as the guidance for such a diverse country like Indonesia.
I: Could you elaborate your observation of the sectarian movement in political sphere in Indonesia?
SPM: Educational bill was one of the examples that require schools to build place for people to pray. We accommodate the aspiration of the majority without realizing that this policy may affect the lives of other groups. This country should not be built based on majority’s or minority’s interest. This country should be based on an ideology that is free from leaning towards any particular belief.
I: Could you please share with us your vision for the future of Indonesian government?
SPM: In the next five years, the government needs to think about how the country can catch up and keep up with its peers. We cannot afford to be only a market for other countries’ products. We should be able to produce agricultural and maritime products. We have spent too much time on unnecessary conflicts related to short-term political interests that causes Indonesia to lose its appeal from foreign investors.
I: Could you please give us some advice before we return to Indonesia?
SPM: For the young generations studying in America, you need to gather as much knowledge as possible. The learning process in Indonesia is not as conducive and independent as in the US. I think the reason Chine can reach its current state is more than due to the outsourcing of the western industries, but also due to recent brain emancipation sparked by Chinese returning from studying in US. We should not lose heart although we are minority. We should not lose heart as minority. Every minority can also gain a spot in developing the country and contribute to its growth.