856E.01/6–347: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Netherlands (Baruch) to the Secretary of State 99
us urgent
362. Embassy’s telegram 361, June 3, repeated London as 31. Following is summary of memo handed Ambassador by Foreign Minister this p.m. based on report after visit by Dr. Idenburg to Djokjakarta received at Foreign Office yesterday:
Distrust in motives of Netherlands Government are reported based on evidence of separatist movements and alleged increase of Netherland troops in Java and Sumatra. Idenburg comments on ignorance at Republic capital of information regarding essential points negotiations between Commanding [Commission] General and Indonesian delegation, with result this mission first met in atmosphere of formal politeness. Gradually indication was shown to discuss broad political aspects and opportunity afforded mission to explain Netherlands concern to Soekarno, Sjahrir and Sjarifoeddin and others, on prevailing situation together with Indonesian objections since signing Linggadajati. Indonesian distrust further accentuated by reputedly biased selection in Republic newspapers of Netherlands news, particularly from right wing press.
Other groups coming into discussion with Idenburg mission included several Cabinet Ministers not previously contacted in Batavia as well as representatives of Socialist Party and important group of youths (Penoeda’s) [Pemudas?] which had previously shown reluctance to enter into direct contact with Netherlands delegation. Only group still remaining aloof were the “Masjoemi” (Moslem opposition party) whose motive is suggested in report as based on strong opposition to Communistic leaning of which they suspect Republic Government. Indications noted that Moslem party demanding general election with hope majority victory at polls.
Report states one practical result of Idenburg visit was Republic willingness receive permanent Netherlands liaison office at Djokjakarta.
Report indicates Japanese indoctrination still manifest in striking uniformity of political thinking and expressions of recrimination against Dutch manifest in all groups. It is suggested this may explain exaggerated confidence placed in youth movements and military forces, both of which indicated wielding great influence.
Mission reports being struck by lack of insight by Indonesians in financial and economic matters and undue emphasis on political and [Page 938] psychological factors. Insight into economic future of Republic described as vague, with no firm intention to tackle existing complex problems. Suggestion is made that Republic suffering from inferiority complex as shown by passionate desire to exhibit only good results of Republic Government and elimination all criticism, particularly self-criticism.
Idenburg’s mission described as greeted by certain apathy on part of representatives. Proposals of May 27 note not discussed with him awaiting meeting of the Republic Cabinet; nevertheless general impression exists that proposals stand fair chance being accepted. This based on “certain utterances” of advisors close to Soekarno with a majority of Indo officials seen as convinced of necessity—although some reluctantly—to cooperate with Netherlands.
Conclusion of mission as reported to Foreign Office is that peaceful solution remains possible despite strong resistance within Republic. This could be overcome by objective information and cooperation with Republic authorities. View is expressed that in order solve most pressing problems at short notice “it will be necessary to bring to bear unrelating [unrelenting?] pressure on the Indonesians”. At same time report expresses doubt as to ability of Republic Government to make clear-cut decisions owing to high[ly] complex political organization of Republic and handicap caused by constant deterioration of economic structure, particularly in transport facilities and production.
Report points out that findings submitted apply only to political circles at Djokjakarta and that situation may vary in other parts of interior where consequences of maladministration are felt even more strongly without benefit of compensation from new ideals of freedom and independence.
Repeated London as 32.
- Repeated by the Department to Batavia in telegram 152, June 6, 3 p.m.↩