Economic zones 'must not displace locals'<\/p>\n
MANADO, North Sulawesi (JP): President B.J. Habibie during his
\nvisit to Manado, North Sulawesi, on Saturday called on officials
\nin charge of integrated economic development zones to prevent the
\nprojects from displacing the local people.<\/p>\n
"Efforts to develop these economic zones will be in vain if
\nthe people cannot enjoy the results," Habibie was quoted by
\nAntara during the inauguration of six economic zones in various
\nparts of the country.<\/p>\n
The integrated economic zones are in the Manado-Bitung area,
\nNorth Sulawesi; Sasamba, East Kalimantan; Batu Licin, South
\nKalimantan; Sanggau, West Kalimantan; Mbay, East Nusa Tenggara;
\nand Sabang, Aceh.<\/p>\n
"Amid the presence of domestic and foreign investors, local
\nbusinesspeople and residents might feel displaced due to their
\nlack of skills," he said, warning that this could cause social
\nproblems.<\/p>\n
He also urged the economic zones' investors to build good ties
\nwith local businesses and pay attention to the plight of local
\nfarmers and fishermen.<\/p>\n
Habibie's arrival was warmly welcomed by the local people
\ndespite a sudden downpour.<\/p>\n
During the visit, Habibie also inaugurated the observance of
\n1998 as International Maritime Year, saying this should increase
\nthe people's awareness on the importance of the ocean to their
\nlives.<\/p>\n
He said the preservation of marine resources is being
\nthreatened by overexploitation due to technological achievements.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, North Sulawesi Governor E.E. Mangindaan said the
\neconomic downturn has barely affected the province, which relies
\non its exports of agricultural commodities.<\/p>\n
The President, during his three-hour visit to the province,
\nalso signed the Bunaken Declaration and Ocean Charter and the
\nmaritime stamp series on the KRI Teluk Banten warship anchored in
\nManado Bay.<\/p>\n
Habibie, accompanied by his wife, Hasri Ainun Besari Habibie,
\nMinister\/State Secretary Akbar Tandjung, Minister of Defense and
\nSecurity Gen. Wiranto and Minister of Housing Theo L. Sambuaga,
\nalso witnessed the "sailing pass" of Indonesian, Singaporean and
\nAustralian warships. (byg\/alx)<\/p>",
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"sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
"sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com"
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