Jakarta

During these days if you should see many people from all walks of life wearing a white ribbon (from rope, cloth, or whatever)on their wrists, don't jump to the conclusion that a lot of people are getting wounds on their wrist, or even think they're the followers of some cult. Because since last Wednesday (2 February), a white ribbon on the wrist has become the symbol of demanding change in Indonesia's political, social, and economic life.

The white ribbon as the symbol of demanding change hasn't caught on like a mass movement. Slowly but surely, with each passing day, more and more people are wearing it. Other than the activists who always take part in any movement towards democracy, the users of the white ribbon can be found in commercial offices along Thamrin, Sudirman, and Kuningan in Jakarta, or in the Asia Africa area (Bandung).

Regarding how effective the movement is, Ratna Sarumpaat, director of Satu Merah Panggung, whose "Marsinah Menggugat" was prohibited in a number of places, states that it isn't fair to hurriedly question the effectiveness of this movement. "At least, this has become an alternative expression of wanting a change."

"This is a symbolic movement that everyone can join. People who don't have time to become overly active in this pro-change movement can use this means, and those in power will hear this powerful outcry in a peaceful and symbolic way, so that change becomes a necessity for everyone. Not just those who have thus far been considered as critics," explains Ratna.

It seems the white ribbon movement is continuing to spread. Because each day, more and more people realize that the country needs to change towards a better direction.

So, don't be surprised if you're on the road, in a cafe, a mosque, at the market, the office, or anywhere, you meet many people wearing a white ribbon.