Indonesians have spoken

We are also greatly relieved that the staggered polling ended so smoothly. Those responsible for holding the poll must be praised for such a peaceful and well-managed election. It shows that the nation has passed the crucial test of democracy with flying colours. Similarly, the dignity and graciousness displayed by the defeated leader, Meghawati Sukarnoputri in accepting the people's verdict deserve equal amount of praise. This is how democracy is supposed to function. We hope the political leaders of our country would take note of this.

We congratulate Yudhyono on his stunning win. His win has made democracy more meaningful, though it doesn't, in any way, undermine his predecessor Meghawati's contribution in ensuring direct election to choose a leader. She had probably realised that she was very likely to lose if there was a direct presidential election, but she went ahead with it, because she believed in democracy. We understand that the new president will have many public expectations to meet, and many problems to resolve, mainly internal terrorism causing serious security concern. We hope he will rise to the occasion with the help of a united front that has emerged through this election. On our part, we would like to take this opportunity of sending our greetings to Indonesia as one Muslim majority country to another, that we are proud of your success in upholding democracy and practising it correctly and fairly.

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