Archive: 21 December 2000
100 articles found
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Kamra problem to be brought to the House
Kamra problem to be brought to the House JAKARTA (JP): Instead of fulfilling its promise to dissolve the People's Security Militia (Kamra), the government on Wednesday said that it planned to seek help from the House of Representatives (DPR) in settling the case. One of the five Kamra representatives from Central Java, who have been in the capital along with some 1,000 fellow members since Saturday, said after a meeting with Minister of Defense Mahfud M.D.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
'Regional autonomy policy may end in chaos'
'Regional autonomy policy may end in chaos' Andi Alfian Mallarangeng believes autonomy is not only an important step toward democratization but an answer to regional discontent or even possible disintegration. The scholar was involved in the policy formulation, though now no longer part of the government's team to oversee its implementation. He fears the government's poor handling would mean doom for the campaign.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Fuel supply for holidays adequate
Fuel supply for holidays adequate CILACAP, Central Java: The state-owned oil and gas company Refinery Unit in Cilacap will not increase its fuel and oil production ahead of the Christmas, Idul Fitri and New Year holidays as its daily production would be adequate, an official says.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Five years of autonomy, Pucukan still poor
Five years of autonomy, Pucukan still poor By Ainur R. Sophiaan SIDOARJO, East Java (JP): Pucukan, a hamlet inhabited by 41 families, is located on the eastern coast of Sidoarjo regency and squeezed in by thousands of hectares of shrimp ponds, which are the hamlet's livelihood. Pucukan, which is part of Gebang village in Sidoarjo City, cannot be accessed by land transportation.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Fake ship tickets found at Tanjung Priok port
Fake ship tickets found at Tanjung Priok port JAKARTA (JP): The annual exodus of people heading home for the upcoming Idul Fitri and Christmas holidays was marred by the discovery of counterfeit ship tickets at Tanjung Priok seaport in North Jakarta on Wednesday. Some 160 passengers of the Leuser, which was scheduled to set sail for Belinyu, on Bangka island, South Sumatra, had to disembark because they were holding fake tickets. Tanjung Priok Seaport Police chief of detectives Sr. Insp.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia will survive, but needs fresh leadership
Indonesia will survive, but needs fresh leadership By Michael Vatikiotis HONG KONG (JP): When the Soeharto regime collapsed in May 1998, the world was in a hurry to herald a new democratic era in Indonesia. But, two years on, one transitional government, a hastily held general election, and an indirectly elected president hardly constitute a political transformation. Optimists say give the process time; at least it's moving in the right direction.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
East Java officials baffled by regional autonomy
East Java officials baffled by regional autonomy SURABAYA (JP): Officials of the East Java provincial administration are no less bewildered by the approaching implementation of regional autonomy. They have on their plate problems of restructuring government agencies and rearranging financial and human resource affairs.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Democracy seeds will grow and strengthen
Democracy seeds will grow and strengthen By M. C. Ricklefs MELBOURNE (JP): Will the Republic of Indonesia survive the crisis which it has been suffering for the last two or three years? The answer is obvious: yes and no. Whatever the outcome of the crisis and the attempts to overcome it, the Republic of Indonesia in, say, 2005 will not be the same as it is now. So present structures, attitudes, expectations and styles will not all survive in their present form.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Reconciliation first among the contending forces
Reconciliation first among the contending forces By Omar Halim JAKARTA (JP): In mid-1998, Abdurrahman Wahid, then chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama, asked this writer to assist him in setting up a commission for national reconciliation. Gus Dur, as he is known, felt strongly that the downfall of Soeharto after committing years of serious abuses of people's rights would activate strong centrifugal forces that could break the nation and country apart.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Agree to immediate polls
Agree to immediate polls From Rakyat Merdeka Some people are of the opinion that President Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) will not resign. Their reasoning is that if Gus Dur steps down under pressure, he would feel defeated. Then he would take along Megawati, Amien Rais and Akbar Tandjung, and let the ministers give up their posts. I agree to this idea.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Bali's churches provide Christmas packages for the poor
Bali's churches provide Christmas packages for the poor DENPASAR, Bali (Antara): A number of churches in Bali will deliver Christmas packages to needy children and poor widows as part of their Christmas programs. The packages contain food, beverages and clothes for these unfortunate people. Maranatha Protestant Church in Denpasar provided 212 packages valued at Rp 6 million from the church's congregation.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
'No autonomy but declaration of war in strife torn Aceh'
'No autonomy but declaration of war in strife torn Aceh' Question: What is your assessment of the plan to apply the autonomy policy next January? Answer: I am concerned, as are many people, about the lack of detailed regulations for autonomy. As far as I know, there is no legal infrastructure that will enable a smooth implementation of the autonomy law. Even the regulations which have been issued have yet to be disseminated. That's an assessment from a formal perspective.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
More time needed to complete BI law, Akbar says
More time needed to complete BI law, Akbar says JAKARTA (JP): House of Representatives Speaker Akbar Tandjung said on Wednesday that the House would not be able to quickly complete the amendment of the central bank law as requested by the government. Akbar said there were many complex issues that needed to be debated by the legislators. "There are many matters that need to be debated and they're quite complicated.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia to keep on muddling through in the next few years
Indonesia to keep on muddling through in the next few years Dr. Hal Hill is a professor of Southeast Asian Economics, convener of Southeast Asian Economies Program at the Economics Division, Research School of Pacific and Asian Studies (RPAS) at the Australian National University. He teaches Southeast Asian economic policy and development.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Autonomy: A wish to repeat the success of Makassar harbor
Autonomy: A wish to repeat the success of Makassar harbor MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi (JP): Mayor HB Amiruddin Maula says he is most optimistic that autonomy will bring back the glory of Makassar. "This policy (promises) us the glorious tradition of Makassar harbor, which served as an international port in the old days.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
'No such thing as clean accountable political party'
'No such thing as clean accountable political party' When the central government is widely attacked for its reluctance to facilitate the autonomy policy, among the first things to look at is the quality of its bureaucracy. In a recent interview, Chusnul Mar'iyyah, a political expert at the University of Indonesia's School of Social and Political Sciences, came up with more questions than answers but was firm in her belief that the bureaucracy must be streamlined and its accountability improved.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Councillors in a muddle over 'charity' plans
Councillors in a muddle over 'charity' plans JAKARTA (JP): The plan of some councillors to donate Rp 40 million (about US$4,325) to charity attracted dozens of interested applicants to City Council on Wednesday. Four members of the Justice Party (PK), who had decided on the plan, quickly left the office to avoid the crowd, a party official said. The crowd also left after seeing the office empty.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Judiciary system reform may be slow but it is coming
Judiciary system reform may be slow but it is coming Dr. Timothy Lindsey is associate professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Melbourne. He is also the Director of Asia Law Center of the university. He has published widely on law and politics in Indonesia, his recent publication being Indonesia: Bankruptcy, Law Reform and the Commercial Court 2000. Following is an excerpt of an interview with Dr.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Tips for homebound holiday travelers
Tips for homebound holiday travelers JAKARTA (JP): If you are one of the millions heading to your hometown for the holidays there are a few words of advice which may come in handy. Several officials have predicted that the coming week could be "the most chaotic, delay-prone, and tiring trip home." "This year's mudik (homebound trip) is definitely going to be a tough one.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
BII expects big jump in profit next year
BII expects big jump in profit next year JAKARTA (JP): Publicly listed Bank Internasional Indonesia (BII) said it expected net profit next year to hit Rp 600 billion (US$63.15 million), up from an estimated Rp 250 billion this year. BII vice president Yap Tjay Soen said on Wednesday the increase was largely the result of Rp 1.79 trillion from interbank claim settlements with the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA).
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Abdurrahman Wahid implements half-hearted autonomy
Abdurrahman Wahid implements half-hearted autonomy Question: What challenges are facing the plan to implement regional autonomy? Answer: Great challenges, obviously, despite the fact that the autonomy concept was already contained in the 1945 Law No. 1. Imagine, thinking and wishing for something for 50 years and only seeing it turning into reality, God willing, next year. For 14 years after 1949, we tried to uphold democracy in Indonesia. In many ways we were successful.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Foreign loans next generations' burden
Foreign loans next generations' burden From Pikiran Rakyat Indonesia, our beloved country with a population of over 200 million, is very rich in that it has abundant natural resources and minerals. Unfortunately, the people of Indonesia have not been able to process the natural wealth themselves. As a result, foreign companies have made much profit through profit-sharing schemes with the Indonesian government.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
BI says holidays will not affect businesses
BI says holidays will not affect businesses JAKARTA (JP): Bank Indonesia (BI) gave assurances on Wednesday the 10-day shutdown of its clearing operations during the holidays would not have a serious impact on businesses, including those making overseas transactions. Bank Indonesia public relations officer Asnar Ashari said the central bank informed the public of the closure weeks ago and the business sector had already made the necessary preparations.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Soldier mobbed to death in Irian Jaya
Soldier mobbed to death in Irian Jaya JAKARTA (JP): A soldier was mobbed to death in the remote town of Tiom, Irian Jaya, some 80 kilometers south of Wamena, following a dispute between officers and locals over the pulling down of the Morning Star separatist flag, an official said on Wednesday. "The incident took place four days ago (Friday) in Tiom. Pvt.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Major cafes hire guards for safety on New Year's Eve
Major cafes hire guards for safety on New Year's Eve JAKARTA (JP): Major cafes in the capital have planned to open their doors for New Year's Eve party-goers but decided to hold no special events except life music shows and dance performances. Contacted separately on Wednesday, some managers admitted to having already hired some people to safeguard their properties during the special evening in anticipation of possible attacks by certain Muslim groups.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Spotlight
Spotlight Photo A: Aid Bank Danamon's Sumatra Area Manager M. Budi Utomo (second left) presents Bengkulu Vice Governor Iskandar Ramis (second right) with aid from the Danamon Caring Program for Bengkulu at Gedung Daerah Bengkulu in November. The aid, Rp 121 billion, will be allocated for renovations to earthquake-damaged elementary school buildings in Bengkulu. They are SDN 40 Lorong Butai, SDN 18 Kebun Beler, SDN 57 Pasar Bengkulu and SDN Jembatan Kecil.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
No more talks with GAM, says minister
No more talks with GAM, says minister JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Defense Mahfud MD said on Wednesday there would be no further negotiations with the separatist Free Aceh Movement (GAM) after the expiration of a humanitarian pause on Jan. 15. Mahfud maintained the government would only negotiate with "Aceh (community) figures", and if GAM representatives wished to continue talks they must do so in this context. "After Jan.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Alleged thief mobbed to death
Alleged thief mobbed to death JAKARTA (JP): An unidentified man was mobbed to death on Wednesday morning after he allegedly tried to steal a motorcycle on Jl. Cibeuber in Bogor. The police report said that a local saw the man trying to make off with the bike. "The man ran away but the local yelled, 'Thief! Thief!', prompting other residents to run after him," the report said.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia needs a leader with ideas for social change
Indonesia needs a leader with ideas for social change Indonesia needs leaders with great ideas for crucial changes to guide the country out of the crisis. Munir, a prominent rights activist and founder of the private Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras), believes that ordinary people are prepared to experience changes. He talked to The Jakarta Post's contributor I. Christianto recently. Question: Indonesia is still haunted by a myriad of problems.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Unresolved banking crisis will become a time bomb
Unresolved banking crisis will become a time bomb Muhammad Chatib Basri is a lecturer in economics at the University of Indonesia, Jakarta, who is currently completing his PhD at the Australian National University in Canberra. The following is a telephone interview with the economist, who is also a columnist in several leading publications in Indonesia, conducted by our Melbourne-based contributor Dewi Anggraeni.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Teguh Ostenrik brings his journey to canvas
Teguh Ostenrik brings his journey to canvas By Aendra H. Medita JAKARTA (JP): Through his works, painter Teguh Ostenrik has recorded his journey in Amsterdam, symbolically presenting an essential visual significance embossed with a spontaneous abstract exploration. The artist toys with the object of his journey by capturing the strength of reality he records. But when the journey is let loose within the frame of a work, it produces a more complex impression.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Golkar advances as others fight: Expert
Golkar advances as others fight: Expert The Golkar party, among the strongest of the New Order legacies, is about "to score a goal" while everyone else is busy fighting one another, says Riswandha Imawan, a lecturer in politics at the Yogyakarta-based Gadjah Mada University. Question: We are seeing the rise of "New Order" elements, demonstrated by situations like the resistance towards the trial of human rights violators in East Timor. Your comment?
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Political conflicts to escalate next year: Observers
Political conflicts to escalate next year: Observers JAKARTA (JP): Political tension, particularly between legislative and executive bodies, is expected to escalate next year rising the specter of instability, observers and politicians said on Wednesday. This situation is compounded by talk of an impending Cabinet reshuffle at the beginning of the year.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
'Businesses fear venality of office in autonony policy'
'Businesses fear venality of office in autonony policy' The following is an interview with Revrisond Baswir, an economist at Gadjah Mada University and the director of the Institute of Development and Economic Analysis in Yogyakarta, who discusses the implications of regional autonomy on many aspects including the livelihood of millions of civil servants. Question: What will be the business implications of the regional autonomy law? Answer: We first have to differentiate between Law No.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Probosutedjo grilled over marked up loan
Probosutedjo grilled over marked up loan JAKARTA (JP): Businessman Probosutedjo appeared at the Attorney General's Office on Wednesday to clarify his alleged involvement in the marking up of a loan obtained from the government's reforestation fund.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Ramadhan time for Jakarta
Ramadhan time for Jakarta Thursday Maghrib 6:08 p.m. Friday Imsak 4:04 a.m. Subuh 4:14 a.m.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Even in worst of times they turn nation ideals into effect
Even in worst of times they turn nation ideals into effect By Jeffrey A. Winters CHICAGO, Illinois (JP): "Everywhere today one finds a feeling of dissatisfaction," observed Mohammad Hatta in 1956, a week before he resigned as Sukarno's vice president. "The just Indonesia we are all waiting for is still far away." Although Hatta's assessment came as Indonesia's brief experiment with democracy was ending, it echoes with surprising relevance even as democracy is emerging again.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Blame central government for autonomy chaos: Ryaas
Blame central government for autonomy chaos: Ryaas Interview with autonomy initiator, Ryaas Rasyid, state minister of administrative reforms. Question: The autonomy law indicates domination by the central government is being retained as shown by the fact that many chapters are requiring the establishment of directive regulations. What is your opinion? Answer: Who says the central government remains dominant in the law?
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Non-oil, gas exports projected to rise 10%
Non-oil, gas exports projected to rise 10% JAKARTA (JP): The value of Indonesia's non-oil and gas exports is expected to increase 10 percent next year to about US$53 billion from some $48 billion this year, Minister of Trade and Industry Luhut B. Panjaitan said here on Wednesday. "I personally think we will exceed this amount and may even achieve a 15 percent increase next year, but 10 percent is our conservative view," he said during a year-end gathering here.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Rupiah Rates Dec. 20
Rupiah Rates Dec. 20 Bank notes rates TT rates Buying Selling Buying Selling Rp Rp Rp Rp U.S.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Reports of forced conversion in Maluku confirmed: Governor
Reports of forced conversion in Maluku confirmed: Governor AMBON, Maluku (JP): The administrator of the state of civil emergency in Ambon, Saleh Latuconsina, confirmed here on Wednesday some Kesui islanders in Central Maluku had been forced to convert religion. Saleh, who is the governor of Maluku, was briefing the media after meeting with members of a joint team assigned to investigate a clash on Kesui island.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Taekwondoins for SEAG selected at national c'ships
Taekwondoins for SEAG selected at national c'ships JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Taekwondo Association (TI) will select athletes to participate in the 2001 Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asia (SEA) Games at the LG Cup national championships, to be held in Jakarta next February. The selected athletes will then be groomed for the World Cup in Seoul in June. The event will also be used to observe the strength of other Asian countries, to prepare national fighters for the 2002 Pusan Asian Games.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Regional autonomy: Building a ship while sailing
Regional autonomy: Building a ship while sailing JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia is set to launch in the New Year its ambitious project of granting unprecedented autonomy to its regions, hoping to allay widespread discontent and even threats of national disintegration following heavily-centralized regimes of the past.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia has to put its house in order to answer E. Asia
Indonesia has to put its house in order to answer E. Asia By Jusuf Wanandi JAKARTA (JP): The end of the Cold War coincided with the acceleration of the globalization process. These two critical developments at the global level have changed our era in a dramatic way, making a significant impact on the global, regional and national levels.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Small lords and new KKN looming in Pangkep
Small lords and new KKN looming in Pangkep By Jupriadi PANGKEP, South Sulawesi (JP): Local lawmaker Muchtar Rauf frowned and shook his head. "Autonomy is suitable only for a community ready for democracy. Here, autonomy will only give rise to fresh problems." The 35-year-old member of the regional legislative council spoke with The Jakarta Post after attending a meeting to discuss the organizational structure of the regions when the regional autonomy law comes into effect on Jan. 1, 2001.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
The failure of 'reformasi', and the 'little New Orders'
The failure of 'reformasi', and the 'little New Orders' By Prapti Widinugraheni SINGAPORE (JP): Indonesia is unlikely to recover from its barrage of multi-crises in the near future, but will just manage to muddle through with political, economic and social damage- control measures for the next five to 10 years, one academic predicts.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Celebrating the holiday during peak season in Bali
Celebrating the holiday during peak season in Bali By I Wayan Juniarta DENPASAR, Bali (JP): The last week of December is the busiest time for most tourist operators, hotels, and entertainment centers in Bali. Hotels and flights are fully booked and the streets are crowded with domestic and foreign visitors. This can be annoying to anyone who plans to spend their holiday in Bali.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
What can Laws 22 and 25 achieve?
What can Laws 22 and 25 achieve? JAKARTA (JP): The Laws 22 and 25 were once touted as the B.J. Habibie administration's attempt at reform but scholars have identified political motives at the bottom of their establishment.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Putting a stop to corruption in the regions
Putting a stop to corruption in the regions By Sapto Waluyo JAKARTA (JP): The new millennium brings with it both hope and fears. Residents of the provinces have placed much hope in the coming into effect of the regional autonomy laws in January of next year, although they will not actually be implemented until May. The hope for more evenly spread prosperity is tempered by the fear that money politics and budget leaks will be rampant.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Diving complex on Sebaru Island to be demolished
Diving complex on Sebaru Island to be demolished JAKARTA (JP): The city administration will tear down a massive diving complex located in Sebaru Island in the Seribu (Thousands) Islands, North Jakarta, as the island is designated as a conservation area. Officials say the construction of a diving facility on the island violated regulations defining land usage on the island.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Seize momentum, ensure change in right direction
Seize momentum, ensure change in right direction By Mari Pangestu SHANGHAI (JP): We will soon enter a new millennium. As the rest of the world debates how to anticipate and respond to new technologies and the new economy -- the "bits" economy -- we in Indonesia are still facing the basic issue of how to rebuild our basic economic structure, or the "bricks" of our economy.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Bomb kills two, injures five
Bomb kills two, injures five JAKARTA: At least two people were killed and five others injured in a bomb blast on Wednesday on Jl. Antasari in Sampit, East Kotawaringin regency, Central Kalimantan. Central Kalimantan Governor Asmawi Agani confirmed the incident, but declined to give further details, Antara reported. The news agency said none of the victims had been identified but that the two fatalities were a man and a baby. All victims were admitted to Murjani Sampit Hospital.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
JFX no threat for Commex
JFX no threat for Commex KUALA LUMPUR (AFX-ASIA): The Commodity and Monetary Exchange of Malaysia (Commex) sees little threat from the emergence of the Jakarta Futures Exchange (JFX), Indonesia's commodity futures exchange, which began robusta coffee and refined palm oil trading on Friday, Business Times reported.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia to stay in tact but Jakarta to lose much power
Indonesia to stay in tact but Jakarta to lose much power Dr. Robert Cribb is associate professor of history at Queensland University. He was educated at Queensland University and the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. He teaches Southeast Asian history and has strong research interests in Indonesia.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Rupiah, baht extend Tuesday's gains
Rupiah, baht extend Tuesday's gains SINGAPORE (Dow Jones): Asian currencies were mixed late Wednesday, with the South Korean won and the New Taiwan dollar succumbing to sharp losses on their local bourses following Nasdaq's overnight plunge. In Southeast Asian markets, the Indonesian rupiah and the Thai baht extended Tuesday's gains. The Philippine peso was also stronger, while the Singapore dollar was weaker. The Indonesian rupiah continued its rally Wednesday, thanks to U.S.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
14 homes razed in fire
14 homes razed in fire MAUMERE, East Nusa Tenggara: At least 14 homes in Bondo Boghila village, Laura district, West Sumba regency, were razed by fire on Tuesday morning, an official said on Wednesday. Head of Bondo Boghila village Bora Saing, whose home was also destroyed in the fire, said there were no fatalities, but that he had seen a group of men near his house prior to the incident. "One man suddenly yelled payawau (besiege).
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Government to set up special agency for IT
Government to set up special agency for IT JAKARTA (JP): Coordinating Minister for the Economy Rizal Ramli said on Wednesday a special government agency would be set up next year to speed up the development of information technology (IT) in the country. Rizal said the agency was urgently needed because Indonesia lagged far behind other countries, including China and India, in the IT sector.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
People should join hands as government in crumbling
People should join hands as government in crumbling People are encouraged to maintain solidarity as the prolonged crisis bites deeper, particularly as the government has been slow in addressing the crisis. Solidarity will help Indonesia stay united and hence repress any separatist inclinations, says economist Hadi Soesastro of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). He talked to The Jakarta Post's contributor I. Christianto recently. Here are excerpts from the interview.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Police special team to probe hospital blast
Police special team to probe hospital blast YOGYAKARTA (JP): Puzzled by recent bomb shocks, Yogyakarta Police set up a special team on Wednesday to investigate Tuesday's hospital explosion, as well as other bombs found in public places, chief Brig. Gen. Logan Siagian said. "The team, led by chief of Yogyakarta Police Crime Investigation Unit, has 30 personnel from five police precincts," Logan told scores of journalists at his office on Wednesday.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Regional autonomy must not be postponed
Regional autonomy must not be postponed The regional autonomy drive will affect many people, most notably the millions of civil servants. Regional employees, for instance, may be discriminated against by the policy, according to Muhadjir Darwin, a public administration expert at Yogyakarta's Gadjah Mada University and researcher at the university's Center of Population Study.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
PT KAI fails to pay electricity bill
PT KAI fails to pay electricity bill BOGOR (JP): If the state electricity company (PLN) had cut off the power supply to Bogor railway station on Wednesday due to the Rp 17 billion in arrears owed to PLN, at least 35,000 passengers of electric commuter trains would have been stranded, and chaos could well have ensued. The electric commuter trains plying the Bogor-Jakarta route are very popular with Bogor residents who work in the capital.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Autonomy and the telecommunications industry
Autonomy and the telecommunications industry By Winahyo Soekanto DENPASAR, Bali (JP): A group of Javanese fishermen recently called for a ban on fishing boats from neighboring areas entering certain waters. This petition was a direct result of the autonomy drive. Although it was aimed at conserving a natural resource, the incident showed how the country needs a broad reference for autonomy.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Decentralization of powers or corruption?
Decentralization of powers or corruption? By Santi W.E. Soekanto JAKARTA (JP): At the bottom of greater demands for regional autonomy is the wish for power to be dispersed in order to overcome the central government's incapability of ensuring smooth delivery of goods and services. Some people believe that decentralization of power often leads to "decentralization of corruption." The 1999 Law No.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
A voyage back to the grandeur of diversity
A voyage back to the grandeur of diversity By Djisman S. Simanjuntak JAKARTA (JP): During the Age of Commerce, the archipelago, which later became Indonesia, was home to a thriving diversity where kingdoms competed with each other for the goodwill of alien traders and travelers by offering the best spatial advantages.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Stock Exchange
Stock Exchange Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Dec. 20, 2000: Shares Close Change Trading Volume ------------------------------------------------------------ Ades Alfindo 2,400 0 129,500 Adindo Foresta Indonesia 105 0 51,500 Alakasa Industrindo 425 0 0 Alfa Retailindo 1,000 0 1,982,500 Alter Abadi 110 -5 20,000 Alumindo Light Metal 875 0 1,000 Andhi Chandra 1,125 -75 162,000 Aneka Kimia Raya 250 0 0 Aneka Tambang (Persero) 925 0 145,000 Anwar Sierad 300 0 0 APAC...
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
SE Asia auto sales up 55% as of October
SE Asia auto sales up 55% as of October SINGAPORE (AFP): New vehicle sales in Southeast Asia's four largest markets climbed 55 percent in the first 10 months of the year, an industry survey released Tuesday showed. The number of new vehicles sold in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand totaled 805,125 between January and October, compared to 519,039 in the same period last year, marketing strategy company Automotive Resources Asia (ARA) said in a report.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Jiang warns Macau, HK to curb anti-China acts
Jiang warns Macau, HK to curb anti-China acts MACAU (AFP): Chinese President Jiang Zemin urged Macau's rulers on Wednesday to stamp out any anti-China activities in a speech marking the first anniversary of the enclave's return to Beijing's rule. Jiang said the mainland government would not intervene in the daily running of the former Portuguese colony, but that authorities in the Macau Special Autonomous Region (SAR) should prevent acts undermining China.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Banten eyes brighter future independent of Java
Banten eyes brighter future independent of Java By David Eyerly JAKARTA (JP): The people of Banten, located some 80 kilometers west of Jakarta on the western tip of Java, campaigned hard for it, yet even they must have been in a state of shock when their goal finally was achieved. Disbelief in Banten and West Java would sum up the reaction to the decision by the House of Representatives in October 2000 to approve the bill making Banten, a former region of West Java, a separate province.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Tight money still required
Tight money still required One may be inclined to see chief economics minister Rizal Ramli's call on Bank Indonesia not to be overzealous in raising interest rate as an attempt to intervene in the beleaguered central bank's monetary management. After all, one of the biggest controversies over the last few weeks has been the political battle between the government and the House of Representatives for control of the supposedly politically-independent central bank.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Golf tourney to help drug addicts
Golf tourney to help drug addicts JAKARTA (JP): The 2001 Vice President Cup Indonesia Open Golf tournament, organized by Lembaga Citra Mandiri Indonesia, is not only a competition but also a fund-raiser to help drugs users. "The tournament is aimed at helping the government deal with drug addicts as it only has a limited budget. Such an event has been proven to be effective in raising funds," the organizing committee chairman, A. Mone, was quoted as saying by Antara news agency on Wednesday.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia in 2001
Indonesia in 2001 JAKARTA (JP): The multidimensional crisis that has plagued Indonesia for four years has yet to show any concrete signs of abating. If anything, it looks as though it is set to become more serious in many sectors in the coming months. With the new year, the regional autonomy law comes into effect, and many fear it will only add to the turmoil besetting the nation. The most asked question today is where is the country going?
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Astra moves back to the top of Review 200 rankings
Astra moves back to the top of Review 200 rankings JAKARTA (JP): After sliding to second place last year, Astra International reclaims its customary position at the top of the Review 200: Asia's Leading Companies listings for Indonesia, the Far Eastern Economic Review reports in its December 28 edition.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Susanto down to fourth place
Susanto down to fourth place JAKARTA (JP): Indonesian Susanto Megaranto dropped to fourth position with 5.5 Match Points (MPs) in the Asian Continental Boys Under-16 chess championships at NPC training center in Bataan, some 160km from Manila in the Philippines, on Wednesday. Susanto, top seeded in this event, seemed to be out of luck and could not keep up with host player Christian Arroyo in the eighth game. After six hours, Susanto agreed to tie in the 105th move by Sicilian Alapin opening.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
RP sect vows to locate fugitive
RP sect vows to locate fugitive MANILA (AFP): A powerful Philippine Christian sect said on Wednesday it would assist French and local police track down French fugitive Alfred Sirven, believed hiding in Manila with the mother of two sect members. The Iglesia ni Kristo (Church of Christ) also rejected claims that it had been sheltering Sirven, the former number two at French oil giant Elf Aquitaine.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Carmelita, Deyana for Korea Open
Carmelita, Deyana for Korea Open JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian women's doubles team of Deyana Lomban and Carmelita agreed to compete in the six-star Korea Open early next year despite a dispute with coach Paulus. "We'll still compete in the Korean Open as previously decided," Carmelita told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday. "We aim to reach the quarterfinals at the event, particularly with three months preparation." Deyana, however, seemed indecisive about their participation.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Ethnic Malay group to hold rally against Chinese demands
Ethnic Malay group to hold rally against Chinese demands KUALA LUMPUR (Agencies): An influential ethnic Malay student movement renewed threats on Wednesday to hold a massive protest against an ethnic Chinese group that has demanded an end to affirmative action policies that benefit Malays.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
RP prosecutors open mystery bank records
RP prosecutors open mystery bank records MANILA (AP): Prosecutors in Philippine President Joseph Estrada's impeachment trial obtained handwriting samples on Wednesday that they say will prove the leader spent millions of dollars in graft money under a false name. The samples consist of six signatures in documents for an account at Equitable PCI Bank that prosecutors claim Estrada used to write a $2.8-million check to buy a mansion for one of his mistresses.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Transparency, accountability ke to decentralization
Transparency, accountability ke to decentralization By Rainer Rohdewohld JAKARTA (JP): In the context of implementing regional autonomy as stipulated in Law No. 22 (1999) on Regional Governance, one of the most-heard arguments is that "the regions are not yet ready and not yet able" to deliver the government functions that have been transferred.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia's fish exports to hit $1.74 billion
Indonesia's fish exports to hit $1.74 billion JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia expects to receive foreign exchange earnings of about US$1.74 billion from fish exports this year, an increase of about eight percent from the previous year, Minister of Maritime and Fisheries Sarwono Kusumaatmadja said on Wednesday. The minister said that in volume, the country's fish exports rose by about 9 percent to 0.70 million tons.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Govt urged to announce new wage system for civil servants
Govt urged to announce new wage system for civil servants JAKARTA (JP): The House of Representatives' budget committee on Wednesday called on the government to officially announce its new policy on the new remuneration system for civil servants and servicemen to avoid further confusion. "Many are confused with recent reports that the government will raise the wages of civil servants and servicemen in the next fiscal year.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Southeast Asia not a priority for Powell
Southeast Asia not a priority for Powell JAKARTA (JP): Observers here, while welcoming the appointment of retired Gen. Colin Powell as United States Secretary of State, felt that it would have little impact on Washington's foreign policy outlook towards Indonesia or Southeast Asia. Foreign affairs observer and former Defense Minister Juwono Sudarsono said Washington's priorities in the region would remain focused on China and Japan.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
'Turn over new leaf for future life of nation'
'Turn over new leaf for future life of nation' By J. Soedjati Djiwandono JAKARTA (JP): Since the resignation of president Soeharto almost three years ago, there have been public demands for legal proceedings to be taken against uncountable cases of crime related to various forms of corruption and violations of human rights. Few cases, however, have been brought to court, many are pending, and many more are unlikely to be.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Where to go in Bali:
Where to go in Bali: Exhibitions * Painting Women After Women, at Seniwati Showspace, Ubud Main Street, until Dec. 26. * Painting by German artist Peter Dittmar, at Gaya Fusion of Senses, Jl Raya Sayan (Phone: 0361 979253), Dec. 28 to Feb. 10. * Painting Wings and Excursions by Astari Rasjid, at Ganesha Gallery, Four Seasons Resort Bali, Jimbaran, Denpasar, until Jan. 12. Museums and Galleries * Blue Moon Gallery, Jl. Tirta Tawar, Banjar Kutuh Kaja, Ubud (Phone: 0361 976727), daily, 11 a.m.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Circumventing for legal infrastructure to entice investments
Circumventing for legal infrastructure to entice investments The following is an excerpt from an Interview with Soeharsono Sagir, an economist at Padjadjaran University in Bandung and consultant to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Regional Autonomy in the autonomy drive. He is confident that despite the poor legal infrastructure, foreign investment can still be encouraged by establishing sister-city schemes. Question: Regional autonomy is not a new concept but is only to be implemented here.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
We have enough to indict Sjahril: Chief prosecutor
We have enough to indict Sjahril: Chief prosecutor JAKARTA (JP): Despite the fact that Djoko S. Tjandra and Pande Nasorahona Lubis have been freed from all charges by a district court in the Rp 546 billion (US$57 million) Bank Bali scandal, a chief prosecutor said on Wednesday that ample evidence exists to convict Bank Indonesia governor Sjahril Sabirin. "Why the initial two defendants were freed by a lower court here is not for me to be concerned with.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Improving management of decentralized health services
Improving management of decentralized health services By Dumilah Ayuningtyas JAKARTA (JP): Some 200,000 civil servants in the health ministry will on Jan. 1, 2001 become employees of regional administrations, wherever they are currently posted. "The ministry will now have to define a new structure for its remaining 8,000 employees who will be in charge of formulating health and social service policies," Minister of Health and Social Welfare Achmad Sujudi said recently.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Retail market spurs property recovery
Retail market spurs property recovery JAKARTA (JP): The retail market, led by supermarkets, hypermarkets and department stores, spurred a recovery in Jakarta's property sector this year, according to leading property consultant Procon Indah/Jones Lang LaSalle.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
KL throws lifeline to MAS chief
KL throws lifeline to MAS chief KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters): The Malaysian government on Wednesday regained control of national carrier Malaysian Airline System Bhd in a deal seen providing a lifeline to debt-laden owner Tajudin Ramli. The $472 million deal precedes the sale of a stake in the airline by the government to a foreign airline. Swissair and Australia's Qantas have confirmed they are in talks to buy into MAS.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia expects $1 billion in new gas contracts
Indonesia expects $1 billion in new gas contracts JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia is expecting an annual income of more than US$1 billion from three new gas contracts with Malaysia and Singapore, according to Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Purnomo Yusgiantoro. Purnomo said on Wednesday that Indonesia would sell gas to Singapore under two separate contracts with an annual value of $775 million, and to Malaysia under a third contract worth between $200 million and $300 million.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Military to stop use of logo on gasoline trucks
Military to stop use of logo on gasoline trucks JAKARTA (JP): The City Military Command has ordered all gasoline trucks, including those run by cooperatives under its supervision, to stop using the logo of the command's cooperatives unit beginning Tuesday. Spokesman Lt. Col. DJ. Nachrowi said the decision was made based on a letter issued by the Army Cooperatives Headquarters dated Dec.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
New Order elements in 'autonomous' regional legislative bodies
New Order elements in 'autonomous' regional legislative bodies JAKARTA (JP): An environmentalist was aghast upon discovering that a regent in East Kalimantan has been parceling out lands to business people, issuing 200 "minor" concessions for protected forests.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Self-images project in mirror when we look at our leaders
Self-images project in mirror when we look at our leaders By Julia Suryakusuma JAKARTA (JP): Disillusionment can lead to illumination. Is this what we feel now about Abdurrahman Wahid, the first legitimately elected president Indonesia has ever had, after 14 months in power? Currently, the common sentiment Wahid arouses is hardly of illumination but rather -- deep disappointment, frustration, and defensiveness on the part of his supporters.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
DPR warns government over Chief Justice post
DPR warns government over Chief Justice post JAKARTA (JP): House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Akbar Tandjung warned the government on Wednesday not to seek candidates for the Supreme Court Chief Justice outside of those proposed by the House. The House has nominated justices Muladi and Bagir Manan for the post. "The government should not try to forward any names other than these two names for the post.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Gus Dur ends his honeymoon with Papua
Gus Dur ends his honeymoon with Papua By Aboeprijadi Santoso JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya (JP): It was a milestone when President Abdurrahman Wahid chose to welcome the year 2000 in Irian Jaya, greeted the sunset by restoring the name to "Papua" and allowed the Morning Star flag to be flown, said the Irianese. For the first time, they felt Indonesia appreciated them rather than being merely interested in natural resources and security.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Poh Lian buying RI pulp mill
Poh Lian buying RI pulp mill SINGAPORE (AFX-ASIA): Poh Lian Holdings said it is buying an Indonesian pulp mill from Anrof Singapore Ltd for US$385 million as part of initiatives to diversify its business. Poh Lian chairman Chia Quee Hock said the current highly competitive climate in the construction industry had led to a search for opportunities that could help increase shareholders value.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
'Indonesia may regress to centralization empty autonomy'
'Indonesia may regress to centralization empty autonomy' Question: Legally speaking, how ready is the country in implementing the autonomy policy? Answer: Before we even consider the legal infrastructure needed for the undertaking, we need to examine the project very seriously because what lies at stake is the very survival of the state. If we fail to do this, the unitary state of Indonesia will disintegrate. And we will no longer have any 'capital'.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
'Autonomy best solution to Riau separation problem'
'Autonomy best solution to Riau separation problem' Riau, one of the resource-rich provinces in Western Indonesia, has in recent years experienced a push for self-determination. The New Order regime's unfair treatment of the region was blamed for the separation campaign. Many believe, however, that a significant autonomy would mitigate the discontent.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
Local anticorruption drive
Local anticorruption drive JAKARTA (JP): Following the commencement of the reform drive in May 1998, a large number of non-governmental organizations have sprung up across the country, including those watching over corruption matters. In their first national conference in Yogyakarta in May 2000, some 40 anti-corruption non-governmental organizations got together. A second conference in Cisarua, West Jakarta, last August was attended by some 70 non-governmental organizations.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
U.S., S'pore discuss trade pact
U.S., S'pore discuss trade pact WASHINGTON (Reuters): The United States and Singapore still have a number of issues to resolve before finishing work on a free-trade agreement, a top U.S. trade official said on Tuesday. "We've made very, very substantial progress, but we've quite a way to go," U.S. Trade Representative Charlene Barshefsky said in a speech to the Economic Strategy Institute one day after Republican congressional leaders urged the administration not to rush into an pact.
Thu, 21 Dec 2000, 00:00 WIB
TNI to stay in politics unless new consensus comes
TNI to stay in politics unless new consensus comes Bob Lowry is Visiting Fellow at the Australian Defense Studies Center, part of the Australian Defense Force Academy in Canberra, and describes himself as an independent Indonesia scholar. He retired from the Australian army in January 1993 as a lieutenant colonel. He served in a range of regimental and staff appointments around Australia, in South Vietnam, Singapore and Indonesia.