Download PDF
Fri, 17th July 2009
JAKARTA BOMBINGS
The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP
Leader of the Opposition
Today’s despicable attacks in the heart of Jakarta represent a vicious assault on all who cherish the values of
free societies.
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the families of the victims of these terrible acts.
Indonesia is a new and flourishing democracy, the world’s most populous Muslim nation, and one of Australia’s
most important neighbours.
The recent re-election of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono signified an explicit repudiation by the people of
Indonesia of those who stand for religious intolerance and violent extremism.
Tragically, today’s bombings indicate there are those who remain unwilling to accept the desire of the Indonesian
people for a free, open and tolerant society.
It is paramount to the mutual interests of Australia and Indonesia that they work effectively together.
Nowhere has the co-operation been closer than in efforts to wage the struggle against terrorism in our region.
Australia and Indonesia have jointly hosted key regional meetings on counter-terrorism, including through the
Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Co-operation.
Today’s attacks on two hotels in Jakarta are a reminder that much work is still to be done, and that the global
struggle against terrorism is far from over.
Indonesia, Australia and their friends and allies across the Asia-Pacific must remain vigilant, and united in their
resolve to defeat those who would inflict these and other atrocities on innocent people.
In Government, the Coalition established close and extensive links with democratic Indonesia to ensure the two
countries worked hand-in-hand to apprehend and bring to justice those responsible for terrorist acts.
The federal Opposition will support the Australian Government wholeheartedly in providing whatever assistance
may be necessary to help Indonesia deal with these latest attacks, including any intelligence co-operation and
police support as requested to hunt down and punish the perpetrators.