REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, Things happen around us. Challenges, problems, difficulties, come in different forms and scopes, whether domestic, regional, or international. We merely –remember the word ‘merely’ here- succeed to cope with them without chaotic manner. Though, we must admit that some tragedies occur before our eyes: Mesuji massacre, arson attack on a boarding school in Sampang, chaotic land disputes, or violence against citizens.

It seems, we still need longer time to change, transform, alter, reform, or convert –in any possible words- particularly in reshaping our national characters. It seems just yesterday when we united in high spirit of nationalism to fight colonialism. Yet today, we are facing different story as the world is shrinking due to globalization.  

Transformation needs time. Sometimes it is painful for those who are not ready. Sometimes, transformation is translated as uncertainty by those who are not ready, while uncertainty is also often associated with discomfort by those who are not optimistic. 

We are only a small element in a broader life. We believe, transformation is a measure to achieve important goals in our life. The nation needs to transform and the needs to change our way of thinking is indeed critical.

Still are we occupied by our own narrow and self centered minds. Those who have powers are busy to serve their own parties instead of the people. Corruption? Ah, no need to say more.   

Here is the biggest irony: we should have been independent since the Independence Day, 67 years ago. Sadly, we have no role model to follow, although we have been undergoing three phases of transformation: Old Order, New Order, then Reform Order. Yet, transformation seems still meaningless, as we are heading nowhere. 

Today we are facing tones of homework from law enforcement, corruption eradication, collusion, nepotism, to terrorism. Not to mention another huge issue: there are 31.02 million people still living below poverty line. 

Again, transformation needs time. Yet, we must continuously breed optimism, that one day this country will proceed. To achieve our goals, we need to transform, starts at individual level. If we believe, we will succeed. Insha Allah -if God’s willing- the nation will achieve its goals.  

Transformation, transformation, and transformation… it is what our newspaper does, starting today, February 20 2012. It transforms into a new phase, new design, new spirit, without forgetting important element: broad in its coverage. Republika transforms towards a better life.

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