REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA - Monash University, Australia, on Wednesday awarded Indonesian Vice President Boediono an honorary Doctorate of Laws from Monash University.
"Today, in this beautiful palace, let us celebrate Dr. Boediono's achievement," Rector and President of Monash University, Ed Byrne, said on Wednesday during ceremony in Vice President Palace. The degree of Doctors of Laws Honoris Causa is the highest award at the university.
Boediono and President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono played strategic role to strengthen democracy, maintain economic growth and decrease poverty, Byrne said. "Under the leadership of Dr. Boediono, Indonesia has grown rapidly amid uncertain global economy," he said.
In his speech, Boediono explained his view on democracy in Indonesia that had reached some progress, such as freedom of the press, transparency in public norm, and good law enforcement. He also explained some challenges in democracy consolidation in Indonesia. The challenges are finding the right balance to build remote areas, finding the best way to protect human rights, developing religious tolerance and developing social capacity.
"My vision is for the growth of Indonesia. Indonesia that can maintain our hopes alive," he said.
Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Greg Moriarty welcomed the recognition given to the Vice President. “Australia works very closely with the Vice President and his office to support the Indonesian Government’s development goals,” he said in his written statement.
“Australia holds Vice President Boediono in high esteem as a friend and a distinguished leader,” he added.
In 1967 Boediono completed a Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Western Australia (UWA) in Perth and in 1972 completed his master’s degree in economics at Monash University. Boediono is the third Indonesia people awarded with the degree after the former Rector of Universitas Indonesia Professor Sujudi and the former Head of National Family Planning Coordinating Board (BKKBN) Haryono Suyono.
Ikuti Whatsapp Channel Republika