Democracy is a bland love letter. Initially, when expression is first put to paper, passion is strong. There is the anticipation of an intimate relationship, with warm conversation. But then, gradually, time wears this away, in writing, words, and attitude.

This is also the story of democracy. In 1998 the Reformasi era that replaced Suharto's authoritarian rule was ushered in with euphoria of change: economic life could no longer be monopolized