National

Stung by Ambalat’s Oil
Wednesday, 09 March, 2005 | 18:02 WIB

Yesterday (8/3), protests were held in almost all large cities in the country.
These were all related to defending the sovereignty of Indonesia, and anti-Malaysia slogans could be heard at many of the protests.

In Makassar, South Sulawesi, members of the Crush Malaysia Front burnt four Malaysian flags in front of their secretariat.
The burning was carried out over concern towards Malaysia’s attitude, which the protestors referred to as “cruel and greedy.”

According to Supriansa, leader of the Crush Malaysia Front, a total of 2,017 peoples have joined as volunteers, including women.
In Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, the Red White Defender Front (FPMP) stated that it was ready to send 500,000 of its members to Ambalat.

In a press release signed by its Secretary General Simon Septory and Deputy Chairman Carlos de Fatima, FPMP urged the government to avoid a diplomatic settlement and continue to take a strict line against the Malaysian armada of ship and planes.
“FPMP is ready to be a living shield in Ambalat,” said Simon.

In Yogyakarta, Gandung Pardiman, Commander of the Indonesian Unity Defense Front (FPNKRI) and also Golkar Party Chairman in the Regional Representatives Assembly (DPD) in Yogyakarta, supported the anti Malaysia movement.
“The government must immediately cut off diplomatic relations and if necessary immediately declare war,” Gandung told Tempo.

According to Gandung, there are 10,812 FPNKR members and volunteers in Yogyakarta who are ready to defend the country.
“Maybe our weapons are less compared to Malaysia’s, but this country’s pride can not be risked. All the power of the people must be mobilized, as this is the best way to teach a lesson to a neighbor who often wounds us,” he said.

irmawati, jems de fortuna and syaiful amin