Declaration Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X And K.G.P.A.A Paku Alam VIII

We the undersigned, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X and K.G.P.A.A. Paku Alam VIII, on the basic of traditional struggle, with the spirit of pure people souvereignity, based on Proclamation of Independence of August 17, 1945 and the Declaration of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono IX and K.G.P.A. Paku Alam VIII in September 5, 1945, herewith declare:

1. We ask the society of Yogyakarta Special region and the whole people of Indonesia, to be together with us to support the Reformation Movement and to strengthen National Leadership which is truly in the people side.

2. We ask all ABRI (Indonesian Arm forces) to be in a strong unity to protect the people and the reformation movement as a manifestation of the unity between ABRI and the people.

3. We ask all the strata of society in the Special Region of Yogyakarta and Indonesia to guard the nation’s unity and integrity, to prevent any act of anarchy which is againt Pancasila ethics.

4. We appreal the society in Yogyakarta Special Region and Indonesia to pray in accordance with their own religion and belief for the safety of the country and the Nation.

Yogyakarta, Wednesday Kliwon, May 20, 1998 (Suro, 23, 1931)

The above brave declaration was only one indication of his whole-heartedly dedication toward Yogyakarta and Indonesia. In coronation as Sultan Hamengku Buwono X in March 7, 1989, he said: "what for the throne and the title of Sultan (for me) if they are not beneficial for the society".

The present Sultan is always working for the welfare and better life of the people. At the same time he is implementing a policy to preserve the culture in line with the development of the country. In a cultural seminar held in Gajah Mada University last year, he said that people should learn the teaching of the country’s traditional leaders spread out in many ancient and old manuscripts. The country has witnessed the great achievement of its best sons:

• Gajah Mada with his Sumpah Palapa (Palapa’s oth)
• Mpu Tantular with his principle of Bhineka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity)
• Soekarno with his Pancasila / five principles of state ideology.

With the spirit of reformation, as if a dialogue with the patriotic leaders of the nation is opened.
The holy message is:
Let’s strengthen the unity and integrity of Indonesia. Let’s hope that my Indonesia is also your Indonesia.
The reformation must be conducted peacefully and in orderly manner.

Holding Pancasila and constitution of 1945 as the basic of reformation, we can be a progressive nation, where democracy and transparancy are correctly practiced, free from corruption, collusion and nepotism.

In this context:

• All political trickeries and manipulation must be ended.
• Be sincere, stop lying, including lying to ourselves.

The leaders have to be aware to end this crisis of credibility with honor, dignity and sincerity. The people especially small people must be freed from hunger, fear and suffering of being neglected. The nation needs good-mannered intellectual and rational leaders, the ones who are able to always give good example, flexible in serving the people, low-profile, with great love to humanity.

It is very important to every one before lifting the difficulties or trouble, has to know first: What is the mistake which cause the difficulties or trouble. After knowing the mistake, throw it away and never do the same thing again. The same attitude should be applied in Indonesia.

Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, shall do necessary thing, so that the city of Yogyakarta remains calm and peaceful as the seedbed of pure idea of reformation, a place of crystallization of ideas and leaders trusted by the vast society, not only trusted but also highly adored.

As a Governor he shall remain close to the people and open to any critic. He shall fight for a greater autonomy for Yogyakarta Special Region. He is of the opinion that it is high time to give a greater autonomy also to the other provinces in Indonesia.