President Yudhoyono is an outstanding example of a leader who has seized the challenge of changing the fate of a country –-especially on as big and complex as Indonesia. It is leaders who craft the vision, set the agenda, push reforms, mobilize the system, take the risks, and –-if they succeed—transform a nation. This book is a valuable tool to help us appreciate the ideas and actions of one of Asia`s prime movers. And it help us understand where Indonesia is heading under President Yudhoyono.
Before becoming the President of Indonesia Dr Yudhoyono had made it clear that he wanted to find a peaceful and lasting settlement to the Aceh conflict. Thes assurance wa one the reasons why I accepted to assist the Government oh the Republic of Indonesia and the GAM (Free Aceh Movement) to find a negotiated settlement for Aceh. The leadership shown by President Yudhoyono was an important element for the negotiations to succeed. This book has provided me with an interesting insight into President Yudhoyono's thinking about important issues concerning Indonesia`s future development, and international relations in general.
President Yudhoyono has shown patient and painstaking leadership to bring Indonesia further into the global economy. He has welcomed foreign investment, encouraged entrepreneurship, signed a historic peace accord, pushed tax reforms and spurred economic growth. I wish him continued good fortune in advancing Indonesia. This book makes for an important read for serious observers of the Asian political and economic arena.