Archive: 27 April 2000
84 articles found
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Traditional drama at JIS
Traditional drama at JIS JAKARTA (JP): Students of the Jakarta International School are scheduled to perform an Indonesian traditional drama entitled Lakshagraha (Pandawa Obong) at their school compound for three consecutive days starting from Thursday evening, the school's intercultural director, S. Money, said. Money said in a statement that the performance constituted an extracurricular project of Indonesian studies at the school.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Manila blames rebels for Sipadan abduction
Manila blames rebels for Sipadan abduction ZAMBOANGA, Philippines (AFP): Members of a separatist group have brought 21 hostages abducted from a Malaysian resort to a southern Philippines stronghold and are reportedly seeking a two million dollar-plus ransom, officials said on Wednesday.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Most Asian currencies close lower, rupiah still suffering
Most Asian currencies close lower, rupiah still suffering SINGAPORE (Dow Jones): Most Asian currencies weakened against the U.S. dollar in regional trading hours Wednesday with the Indonesian rupiah bearing the brunt of the decline. The Philippine peso also suffered steep losses before the central bank intervened near the end of the trading session to drive the local currency back up.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Sutiyoso 'invited' in July 27 probe
Sutiyoso 'invited' in July 27 probe JAKARTA (JP): The National Police has issued what they term an "invitation" to three former retired military generals to answer questioning as witnesses in connection with the forcible takeover of the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) headquarters on July 27, 1996. Spokesman Brig. Gen. Dadang Garnida identified the generals on Wednesday as Gen. (ret) Feisal Tanjung, Lt. Gen. (ret) Syarwan Hamid and Lt. Gen. (ret) Sutiyoso.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Japan foreign minister to visit Indonesia
Japan foreign minister to visit Indonesia TOKYO (DPA): Japanese Foreign Minister Yohei Kono said on Tuesday he will visit Indonesia as part of his three-nation five- day trip starting on Friday. The overseas visit will also take Kono to Singapore and the former Indonesian province East Timor. During his Indonesian trip, Kono plans to hold a discussion with President Abdurrahman Wahid, who visited Japan earlier this month.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Sulawesi students stage rally, renew demand for independence
Sulawesi students stage rally, renew demand for independence MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi (JP): Street rallies by disgruntled students protesting the dismissal of Minister of Industry and Trade Yusuf Kalla here started Wednesday off with a renewed threat to break away from the republic. The students who claimed to represent 45 Makassar University and Indonesian Muslim University, blocked Jl. Urip Sumohardjo and demanded clarification on the removal of Kalla, who comes from Makassar.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Seizure of Soeharto assets to begin soon
Seizure of Soeharto assets to begin soon JAKARTA (JP): The Attorney General's Office announced on Wednesday it would begin the seizure of assets related to former president Soeharto's corruption charges in the coming few days. Spokesman for the office Yushar Yahya told a media conference here that preparations were underway for a legal measure following official approval from the South Jakarta District Court earlier in the day.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Bribery allegation hits judge candidate Teguh
Bribery allegation hits judge candidate Teguh JAKARTA (JP): Teguh Samudra, one of 10 independent ad hoc judges proposed by the government for the Jakarta Commercial Court, was allegedly involved in a Rp 2 billion (US$250,000) court bribery involving a civil dispute occurring in 1998, according to a document.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Property sector 'on road to recovery'
Property sector 'on road to recovery' JAKARTA (JP): The property sector, especially housing, will recover to its precrisis level next year as sales this year are predicted to double from 1999, leading property developer Ciputra said on Wednesday. Steadily falling bank interest rates are fueling a robust increase in property sales this year, Ciputra said on the sidelines of a seminar on e-commerce.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Police shoot two in Merauke spat
Police shoot two in Merauke spat MERAUKE, Irian Jaya: A street quarrel between two policemen and two civilians here on Monday resulted in the shooting of the latter. Irian Jaya Police chief Brig. Gen. SY Wenas confirmed the shooting on Wednesday, saying it was due to a misunderstanding. The shooting started when the two civilians, who were on night patrol at a security post at 8 p.m. local time, stopped a noisy motorcycle ridden by the two policemen.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
RI in throes of fragile recovery
RI in throes of fragile recovery BANGKOK (AP): Indonesia is showing signs of a fragile recovery after three years of economic and political turmoil, but it will take years for the debt-ridden finance sector to be restored to health, the Asian Development Bank reported Wednesday.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Rudy Ramli agrees to drop lawsuit
Rudy Ramli agrees to drop lawsuit JAKARTA (JP): Former controlling owner and president of Bank Bali Rudy Ramli agreed on Wednesday to drop his lawsuit against the central bank and the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA). Rudy made the decision after he obtained a guarantee from the government that the bank would be recapitalized.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Government urged to stop interventionist approach
Government urged to stop interventionist approach JAKARTA (JP): The government should stop intervening in the formation of partnerships between small and medium-sized enterprises and large companies, according to a survey. The survey, conducted by the Institute of Social Research and Economy at the University of Indonesia and the Asia Foundation, said the government should simply act as a facilitator if it wished to make the small and large company alliance program a success.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Barbie pieces worth Rp 5.2b reported stolen
Barbie pieces worth Rp 5.2b reported stolen JAKARTA (JP): Jakarta Police detectives are investigating the theft of Barbie doll parts from PT Mattel Indonesia's factory in Cikarang, Bekasi. According to a police source, it is suspected some Rp 5.25 billion (US$664,600) worth of the doll parts have been stolen from the factory since 1992. "The police have just begun the investigation ...
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
The power of Men Brayut's legacy remains in Bali
The power of Men Brayut's legacy remains in Bali By Leslie Dwyer DENPASAR, Bali (JP):As fact-finding commissions and special investigations work to uncover the truth behind the past 35 years of Indonesian history, numerous crimes are being brought to light. Those who have felt the pain of violence and oppression and censorship have started -- sometimes haltingly, sometimes more openly -- to tell their stories.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Action against unregistered vendors postponed
Action against unregistered vendors postponed JAKARTA (JP): The City Administration has delayed taking firm action against 120,000 unregistered street vendors operating in the capital on humanitarian grounds and will wait until the recovery of the country's economy, an official said on Wednesday.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
FINA to lift ban on two swimmers
FINA to lift ban on two swimmers LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP): World swimming's governing body said on Tuesday it is ready to lift the four-year suspensions given to two swimmers who tested positive for nandrolone, citing new evidence that the steroid could have been present in meat they consumed. Any roll-back of the suspension could have wider implications for the numerous cases of positive nandrolone findings among elite athletes.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
S'pore to reward nicotine quitters
S'pore to reward nicotine quitters SINGAPORE (AFP): A year after launching a visually shocking campaign featuring blood clots in the brain and fatty heart deposits, Singapore is switching to incentives to get its population to quit smoking. On Wednesday, anti-smoking advocates launched a contest offering smokers in Singapore who successfully kick the habit a chance to win round-trip tickets for two to London, Sydney or Hong Kong, plus cash.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Navratilova in women's doubles
Navratilova in women's doubles LOS ANGELES, California (AP): Martina Navratilova, retired from competitive for almost five and a half years, will enter the women's doubles draw at Wimbledon, her spokeswoman said on Tuesday. Navratilova, a nine-time singles champion at Wimbledon, will play with South Africa's Mariaan de Swardt at the tournament which runs from June 26 to July 9, said Linda Dozoretz.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Wheels of justice turn slowly -- if at all -- in Polish courts
Wheels of justice turn slowly -- if at all -- in Polish courts By Magdalena Kulig WARSAW (AP): Poland's chronic inability to give suspects speedy trials turned into a blessing for five archivists charged with destroying secret-police records from the communist era. After a decade of delays, court fumbling and a well-timed certificate from a doctor, all five are home free. A 10-year statute of limitations on the charges ran out, and the case has been dropped.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
School up in arms about regiment
School up in arms about regiment SEMARANG, Central Java: About 500 students from Walisongo State Academy for Islamic Studies (IAIN) rallied at the provincial legislature on Wednesday to demand the expulsion of student paramilitary regiments (Menwa) from campuses. Group leader Sutarno said the students called on the government to revoke a ministerial decree on the establishment of the regiment. They complained that the paramilitary members tended to behave violently on campus.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Where to go in Bali for Thursday, April 27, 2000
Where to go in Bali for Thursday, April 27, 2000 Exhibitions * Painting Exhibition by Ni Made Suciarmi, Seniwati Showspace, Jl Raya Ubud, April 28. * Painting Exhibition, Seni Lukis Kaca Nagasepaka, Buleleng, at Museum Puri Lukisan, Jl. Raya Ubud, Gianyar (Phone: 0361 975136), 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., until May 23. * Painting Exhibition at Seniwati Showspace, Jl Raya Ubud, April 30 to May 31.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Blues eliminated from Western Conference series
Blues eliminated from Western Conference series ST. LOUIS, Missouri (AP): All the St. Louis Blues has for its 114-point regular-season championship is a worthless trophy. Steve Shields rebounded from a shaky Game 6 with 21 saves as the San Jose Sharks tightened up on defense to eliminate the Blues in the first round of its Western Conference series with a 3-1 victory Tuesday night. "It's great," Shields said. "This is what you play for.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Conversion Rates
Conversion Rates Bank Indonesia's conversion rates on April 26, 2000: Bank notes rates Buying Selling Rp Rp U.S.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Asia says Asia can wipe out poverty by 2025
Asia says Asia can wipe out poverty by 2025 BANGKOK (AFP): Poverty in Asia should largely be eradicated by 2025 as economic growth transforms the lives of the 900 million people who now survive on less a dollar a day, the Asian Development Bank said on Wednesday. "If developing Asia can continue with its historical trend in economic growth, an ADB study indicates it will be largely free of poverty by 2025," said bank vice-president Myoung-Ho Shin.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Politics affect art and tourism sectors in Bali
Politics affect art and tourism sectors in Bali By Degung Santikarma DENPASAR, Bali (JP): In the tiny village of Peliatan, south of Ubud, Bali, a small artshop has recently been renovated. The gaudy paint and shiny ceramic tiles have been replaced with natural stone and mud-plastered walls in subdued colors. The wood carvings and canvases offered for sale are no longer stacked in a jumbled mess but have been transformed into an elegant, eye-catching arrangement.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Man injured in vehicle blast
Man injured in vehicle blast DENPASAR, Bali: A van carrying gasoline exploded here on Wednesday, severely injuring its driver. The vehicle, which was formerly used as public transportation vehicle, was transporting 25 plastic tanks containing 20 liters of gasoline each. They were to be sold to motorboat and speedboat owners at Mertasari beach in Sanur.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Alleged fraud at flying service company probed
Alleged fraud at flying service company probed JAKARTA (JP): City police detectives began an investigation on Wednesday into the alleged embezzlement of Rp 744 million (US$99,200) and $63,722 at aviation consultancy firm PT Aerospace Nusantara Service Center (ASC). The embezzlement reportedly occurred over a span of six years beginning in 1992.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Portugal to help preserve its heritage in Indonesia
Portugal to help preserve its heritage in Indonesia JAKARTA (JP): In a move to improve Portuguese-Indonesian relations, Portuguese Ambassador Ana Gomes promised on Tuesday her government would assist with the preservation of its colonial heritage here. "There are so many Portuguese buildings in Indonesia as a result of our hundreds of years old relationship. "We will provide funds to conserve and restore our heritage," she said as quoted by head of the City Protocol Office Margani.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Inco earning up 1st quarter increases
Inco earning up 1st quarter increases JAKARTA (JP): Publicly-listed PT International Nickel Indonesia (Inco) announced on Wednesday unaudited net earnings of $18.1 million in the first quarter of 2000, or seven cents per share, compared to a loss of $2.1 million (one cent per share) a year earlier. The nickel mining company with operations in Soroako, South Sulawesi, made a $17.8 million net profit (seven cents per share) in the last quarter of 1999.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Teacher land hike in allowance, still short of demand
Teacher land hike in allowance, still short of demand JAKARTA (JP): The government has agreed to raise teachers' functional allowances by 100 percent, far below various demands made by protesting teachers. Speaking after a Cabinet meeting at Bina Graha presidential office on Wednesday, Minister of National Education Yahya Muhaimin said the figure was the best the government could do due to financial constraints for the 2000 fiscal year.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Phony VCDs, CDs, CD-Roms seized
Phony VCDs, CDs, CD-Roms seized JAKARTA (JP): Central Jakarta Police detectives seized some 1 million counterfeit video compact discs (VCDs) and CDs in a raid on two houses on Jl. Dwiwarna in Kartini subdistrict, Sawah Besar, on Wednesday morning. Central Jakarta Police detectives chief Capt. Hendra Suhartiyono told reporters that his men arrested the owner of the houses -- identified only as Arisman, 40 -- and eight of his staff.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Stock quotations on JSX
Stock quotations on JSX Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on April 26, 2000: Shares Close Change Trading Volume ------------------------------------------------------------ Ades Alfindo 800 75 500 Adindo Foresta Indonesia 375 -25 586,500 Alakasa Industrindo 675 -25 7,500 Alfa Retailindo 775 -25 817,000 Alter Abadi 150 0 867,500 Alumindo Light Metal 1,075 0 11,000 Aneka Kimia Raya 300 0 35,000 Aneka Tambang (Persero) 1,025 0 1,136,500 Anwar Sierad 300 0 0 APAC Centertex Corp.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
House to question President over his Cabinet reshuffle
House to question President over his Cabinet reshuffle JAKARTA (JP): House of Representatives legislators are planning to grill President Abdurrahman Wahid over his latest Cabinet shake-up when they meet with him for a regular consultation on Thursday.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Some 67 dead in Burundi ahead of Mandela visit
Some 67 dead in Burundi ahead of Mandela visit BUJUMBARA (AFP): At least 67 people have died as fighting between Burundi's army and rebels flared only days before chief peace mediator Nelson Mandela is due to visit the country in the latest bid to end seven years of civil war. Rebels intensified their attacks on Tuesday, firing their guns towards houses from a hill overlooking a suburb in the south of capital Bujumbara, though without causing any injuries.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Unbeaten Grant sees upset of champion Lewis in 10th round
Unbeaten Grant sees upset of champion Lewis in 10th round NEW YORK (AFP): Unbeaten Michael Grant predicted a 10th-round stoppage of undisputed world heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis in their title showdown here Saturday, vowing to pressure the British boxer until he cracks. "He doesn't like pressure," Grant said after a workout here Tuesday. "He tends to slow down in later rounds. I come on strong. My job is to go out there and impose my will on him. "Pressure and speed are factors.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Three more opposition supporters die in Kariba
Three more opposition supporters die in Kariba HARARE (AP): Political violence has claimed the lives of three more opposition supporters and also threatened to deprive Zimbabwe's economy of its biggest hard-currency earner, officials said on Wednesday. Morgan Tsvangirai, head of the Movement for Democratic Change, said two supporters died in attacks on Tuesday in the northern lakeside town of Kariba, and five others were injured - two seriously.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Asian stock markets close lower
Asian stock markets close lower HONG KONG (AP): Most Asian stock markets closed lower on Wednesday, with the key index in Tokyo falling to a four-month low after investors cashed in on early gains. Japan's benchmark 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average shed 138.02 points, or 0.8 percent, to close at 18,134.31 - its lowest point since closing at 18,080.38 points on Dec. 21. On Tuesday, the average closed down 207.82 points, or 1.1 percent.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
China banks on Xia, Ji in Thomas Cup c'ship
China banks on Xia, Ji in Thomas Cup c'ship JAKARTA (Agencies): China is putting its hopes on young shuttlers Xia Xuanze and Ji Xinpeng in the Thomas Cup in Kuala Lumpur next month while experienced women players will be recruited for the Uber Cup team. Xia, the All England champion, and Ji, the Japan Open winner, will join elder players Sun Jun, Chen Hong and Luo Yigang in the singles.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
UN movea to introduce defender for rights activists
UN movea to introduce defender for rights activists GENEVA (AFP): The United Nations rights body voted overwhelmingly on Wednesday to give human rights defenders their own defender. Fifty of the 53 members of the UN Human Rights Commission voted at the body's annual session here to appoint a special representative whose job will be to protect the rights of defenders of human rights.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Medco ties up with Mitsui
Medco ties up with Mitsui JAKARTA (JP): Publicly listed PT Medco Energi Internasional signed a memorandum of understanding with Japanese trading company Mitsui & Co. Ltd. on Wednesday for cooperation in marketing crude oil, financing arrangements and development projects. Medco said in a statement that the agreement covers a cooperation on oil export facilities in South Sumatra, and oil and gas development projects in Central Sulawesi. Medco is Indonesia's largest privately owned oil company.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Gore to criticize Bush plans on health care
Gore to criticize Bush plans on health care BOSTON, Massachusetts (AP): Republicans "have blood in their eyes," Vice President Al Gore warned as he tried to keep pace with Republican Party fund raising and rolled out an all-points critique of the policy agenda of Republican presidential rival George W. Bush.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Daewoo union extends strike
Daewoo union extends strike SEOUL (AFP): The union of South Korea's ailing Daewoo Motor Co. said on Wednesday it would continue at least until Saturday its wildcat strike in protest against the arrest of union leaders. "We have decided to continue striking until Saturday," a spokesman of the Daewoo Motor union said as the stoppage entered its second day.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Gus Dur defends Cabinet reshuffle
Gus Dur defends Cabinet reshuffle JAKARTA (JP): President Abdurrahman Wahid defended on Wednesday his decision to replace two of his economics ministers as an ordinary Cabinet reshuffle well in line with his prerogative as head of government. "I have to streamline the Cabinet and regulate it," the President said at the State Palace in his opening address before the swearing in ceremony of Lt. Gen.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Falling tree kills movie director, injures crew
Falling tree kills movie director, injures crew BOGOR (JP): A 52-year-old TV drama series director, Abdul Kadir, died during the shooting of his Borobudur action series when a tree fell on him in a forest studio at Situ Gede village, Sindang Barang Jero in West Bogor on Wednesday afternoon. The incident, which took place around 3:30 p.m. at Plot 19 of the forest studio, also left five crew members severely injured.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Columbian artist goes abstract at National Gallery
Columbian artist goes abstract at National Gallery JAKARTA (JP): Manuel Hernandez is quite possibly an unfamiliar name to most Indonesian art lovers -- he is a contemporary art maestro from a country as far away as Columbia in Latin America. To find out more about his distinguished works, local art buffs are now able to view some 35 of the artist's works, which are currently on display at the National Gallery, starting from Thursday (today) through May 4.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Microsoft must remain in one piece to innovate: Gates
Microsoft must remain in one piece to innovate: Gates SEATTLE (AP): Microsoft Corp. chairman Bill Gates said on Tuesday that consumers would be hurt if his company were broken up by the federal government because the synergy between the various divisions and products are the key to his company's success.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Pick of the Flicks (for Thursday, April 27, 2000)
Pick of the Flicks (for Thursday, April 27, 2000) Hollywood KC Deuce Bigalow 14:15 16:55 19:05 21:15 Sleepy Hollow 14:55 17:35 19:45 21:55 The Bachelor 14:15 16:55 19:05 21:15 Bicentennial Man 14:55 17:35 19:45 21:55 Boys Don't Cry 14:15 16:55 19:05 21:15 Senayan Sleepy Hollow 13:00 15:15 17:30 19:45 The Bachelor 13:45 16:00 18:15 20:30 Bicentennial Man 13:00 15:15 17:30 19:45 Deuce Bigalow 13:45 16:00 18:15 20:30 Stir Of Echoes 13:00 15:15 17:30 19:45 Boys Don't Cry 13:45 16:00 18:15 20:30 The...
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Central bank says time ripe to sell U.S. dollars
Central bank says time ripe to sell U.S. dollars JAKARTA (JP): Bank Indonesia (BI) deputy governor Miranda Gultom said on Wednesday that the central bank was ready and in a good position to sell its U.S. dollars in a bid to help ease pressure on the rupiah. Miranda said the central bank now had a relatively ample amount in its foreign exchange reserves to intervene in the currency market.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Letter bomber gets nine years
Letter bomber gets nine years CANBERRA (AP): A disgruntled former tax worker who spread terror through Australia when he mailed letter bombs to former colleagues and an equal opportunities commission was jailed on Wednesday for nine years. Colin George Dunstan, 44, was convicted at an earlier hearing of posting 28 bombs packed into plastic computer disc cases in late 1998. Only one exploded, slightly injuring a postal worker in Canberra, the capital.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Observations and suggestions
Observations and suggestions I have had the privilege of residing in Indonesia for over a year. This is a great country, especially its vast and rich culture. The following personal observations seem rather "unique" and I wish to share them with fellow readers. First, the use of the entry immigration card when a foreigner issued with a residential permit of six months is leaving Indonesia; if I am not mistaken, it also applies to Indonesian citizens.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Musique Surya makes debut in Jakarta today
Musique Surya makes debut in Jakarta today By Y. Bintang Prakarsa JAKARTA (JP): A new chamber ensemble is making its debut this Thursday, April 27, at 7.30 p.m. at Erasmus Huis. Musique Surya is presently made up of Ade Simanjuntak-Simbolon (piano), Lynn Davidoff (flute), and Sharon Eng (viola). "Musique Surya was founded because we wanted to play chamber music together," said Davidoff, spokesperson for the group.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Air Force to receive six new Hawks from UK
Air Force to receive six new Hawks from UK JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Air Force will receive six new Hawk jet fighters from the United Kingdom in June. They will be stationed at Supadio Air Base in Pontianak, West Kalimantan. "We expect the six British-made tactical attack aircraft will be sent soon. This was the second batch of 40 aircraft we ordered a couple years ago," the Indonesian Military (TNI) Spokesman Rear Marshall Graito Usodo told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
South Korea hit by CIH-virus
South Korea hit by CIH-virus SEOUL (AFP): Computer viruses called CIH hit South Korea for the second consecutive year on Wednesday, crippling thousands of computers in houses, companies and government offices, officials said. The state-financed Korea Information Security Agency (KISA) and anti-virus research centers were being flooded by complaints from users who were hit by the outbreak of the virus, they said.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Russia exhibits Hitler's skull
Russia exhibits Hitler's skull MOSCOW (AFP): The Russian authorities on Wednesday put on display what they said was a bullet-marked fragment of Hitler's skull, but admitted they had no conclusive proof as to how the Nazi dictator killed himself. Grisly exhibits, including photographs of Hitler's jaw and fragments of bloodstained armrests from the couch where he ended his life, were put on display after the opening of Soviet-era secret service archives.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Teachers make selfish demand
Teachers make selfish demand From Suara Karya While Indonesia is still in the throes of a deep economic crisis, the government has, quite daringly, decided to raise the salaries of civil servants and members of the military and the police by quite a small percentage (30 percent). To us this salary increase is quite a relief, especially considering the still unfavorable condition of the country.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Malaysian media calls for greater security
Malaysian media calls for greater security KUALA LUMPUR (AP): Malaysian media jostled on Wednesday over whether better security in Southeast Asian seas would keep pirates and terrorists at bay and preserve the steady flow of tourists to the country's beaches. "Our police force and navy must beef up their strength and step up surveillance," Toman Mamora, editor of the Sarawak Tribune, one of Borneo's leading dailies, said in a telephone interview.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Aceh rights abuse tribunal to continue, judges say
Aceh rights abuse tribunal to continue, judges say BANDA ACEH, Aceh (JP): Judges in the joint military-civilian tribunal here ruled on Wednesday to proceed with the trial of 24 soldiers and a civilian charged with mass killings in West Aceh last year. In their pretrial decision, the panel of five judges, led by civilian judge Ruslan Dahlan, overruled the defense plea for the charges to be dropped. Defense lawyers earlier argued that the soldiers should be tried in a regular court-martial.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
AJSI calls for a unified security program provider
AJSI calls for a unified security program provider JIMBARAN, Bali (JP): The Association of Social Security Providers in Indonesia (AJSI) has called on the government to merge five state companies running social security programs for the sake of efficiency and better services.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Oracle helps Asia Internet
Oracle helps Asia Internet SINGAPORE (Dow Jones): Oracle Corp. said Wednesday it has invested S$55 million (US$32 million) in a program to support Internet startup companies in South Asia. Oracle said it has signed a memorandum of understanding with eight incubation centers in Singapore to provide infrastructure and technical support for companies that qualify for the electronic-business program.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Thailand's exports soar
Thailand's exports soar BANGKOK (DPA): Thailand's exports in the first quarter of 2000 reached US$17.1 billion, a 30.3 per cent jump over the same period last year, government officials said Wednesday. In the January to March period, imports also increased 21.6 per cent to reach $13.9 billion, leaving the kingdom with a trade surplus of $3.2 billion, said Finance Ministry spokesman Sathit Limpongphan.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Zaw braces to fight top players at JAPFA
Zaw braces to fight top players at JAPFA By Ivy Susanti SANUR, Bali (JP): Being the only International Master (IM) in the 16th category JAPFA Classic International Chess Tournament does not frighten Zaw Win Lay. With an elo rating of 2633, Zaw's name does not jump out of the list of competitors, comprising mostly top world champions with elo ratings ranging from 2510 to 2696.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Call goes out in ugent effort for environment
Call goes out in ugent effort for environment UNITED NATIONS (AP): Despite improvements in the last 30 years, efforts to keep the globe eco-friendly remain the world's "urgent, unfinished agenda," the deputy United Nations chief said on Wednesday.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Global currencies
Global currencies Value Net Changes 1 Day 1 Month 2000 Japanese yen 106.080 -0.2249 +0.21% +0.67% -3.37% Euro 1.0873 +0.0014 -0.12% -5.95% -8.59% Poundsterling 0.6344 +0.0020 -0.31% -1.12% -2.59% Singaporean dollar 1.7046 +0.0011 -0.06% +0.63% -2.27% Australian dollar 1.7000 +0.0149 -0.88% -4.01% -10.42% Base Currency: USD; Date: April 26, at 10:38 GMT Source: Bloomberg
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Sikh try to heal massacre wounds
Sikh try to heal massacre wounds By Surinder Oberoi CHATISINGHPORA, India (AFP): Life is cautiously returning to normal in the picturesque Kashmir village of Chatisinghpora, where 36 Sikh men were massacred by unidentified gunmen more than one month ago. The massacre marked the first time Sikhs had been targeted in the decade-old Muslim insurgency in Indian-controlled Kashmir, and sent shock waves through their close knit community that were felt across the country.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Top int'l chess players to compete in JAPFA Open
Top int'l chess players to compete in JAPFA Open SANUR, Bali (JP): Top international Grand Masters will participate in the JAPFA Classic International Open Tournament 2000 at the Grand Bali Beach Hotel here from May 3 to May 11. GM Jaan Ehlvest of Estonia (elo rating 2,622), GM Gilberto Milos Jr. of Brazil (2,620) and International Master (IM) Zaw Win Lay of Myanmar (2,633), who finished the JAPFA Classic International Tournament 2000 on Tuesday, will also take part in the US$20,000 event.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
International peacekeepers set for Lebanese borders
International peacekeepers set for Lebanese borders BEIRUT (AP): Lebanon said on Wednesday -- for the first time -- that it will accept international peacekeepers in areas to be vacated by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, a move that could help prevent attacks by Lebanese guerrillas.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
S. Korea-Vietnam oil venture
S. Korea-Vietnam oil venture SEOUL (AP): A consortium of U.S., South Korean and Vietnamese companies will begin a US$54 million project to search for oil off Vietnam, South Korean officials said Wednesday. The consortium involving Conoco Inc., Korea National Oil Corp. and Vietnam Oil and Gas Co. will explore a potential offshore oil field 70 kilometers (43 miles) south of Vung Tau off southeastern Vietnam for the next 25 years, they said.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
IBRA loses new bankruptcy case against Ometraco
IBRA loses new bankruptcy case against Ometraco JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA) lost another legal battle in the Jakarta Commercial Court, which dismissed the agency's bankruptcy suit against PT Ometraco Corporation on Wednesday. "PT Ometraco Corporation is in the liquidation process following a bankruptcy granted by the South Jakarta District Court, so it cannot be declared bankrupt again here," presiding judge Mahdi Soroindah Nasution told the courtroom.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
A wasted chance on nuclear arms?
A wasted chance on nuclear arms? This morning (Tuesday), members of the United Nations begin a month of meetings on nuclear arms. Officially, it is the five- year review of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Unofficially, it is the greatest meeting ever held to discuss the state of nuclear arms. It comes at a time of tension and some danger. India and Pakistan are increasingly unfriendly to each other, and to nuclear disarmament of any kind.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Workers of two firms rally for wage hike, right to join union
Workers of two firms rally for wage hike, right to join union JAKARTA (JP): Two groups of workers staged separate protests in the city on Wednesday demanding the right to organize and proper wage increases. Around 60 workers from electronic giant PT Sony Electronic Indonesia staged a protest in front of the United Nations (UN) representatives building on the city's main thoroughfare of Jl. MH. Thamrin in Central Jakarta.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Uncertainty spooks market
Uncertainty spooks market While everybody agrees that it is President Abdurrahman Wahid's constitutional prerogative to appoint and replace his Cabinet members and that his economic team did require a realignment, his sacking of Industry Minister Jusuf Kalla and State Minister of Investment and State Enterprises Laksamana Sukardi on Monday spooked the market. The Jakarta Stock Exchange tumbled 2 percent on Tuesday but was up 1 percent on Wednesday.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Flying balloons to promote 2002 World Cup
Flying balloons to promote 2002 World Cup SEOUL (Agencies): Ten Chinese, Japanese and South Koreans will fly in balloons across the Sea of Japan next week to promote the 2002 World Cup, organizers said Wednesday. "The goal is clear. We want to promote the 2002 World Cup," said Yang Dong-hoon, a spokesman for (Korea) Sky Sports Association.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Clean and real democracy
Clean and real democracy I would like to contribute my thoughts -- how dare Australia take all the credit concerning East Timor.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
ADB confident of oil price stability
ADB confident of oil price stability MANILA (DPA): The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said Wednesday recent rounds of oil price increases are expected to push up inflation in industrialized countries, but would not likely plunge the world economy into another recession.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Tyasno apologizes for Army's past mistakes
Tyasno apologizes for Army's past mistakes JAKARTA (JP): Army Chief of Staff Gen. Tyasno Sudarto delivered an apology to the nation on Wednesday for "Army troops' past mistakes" and pledged such actions would not be repeated in the future. "In my capacity as the Army chief of staff, I officially apologize to people for Army troops' past mistakes," Tyasno was quoted by Antara news agency as saying in the Central Java capital of Semarang.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
PM Amato's new government sworn in
PM Amato's new government sworn in ROME (AP): Premier Giuliano Amato was sworn into office on Wednesday along with a rehashed center-left coalition already looking frayed after one of his choices refused to take up his ministry post. Amato, a respected treasury minister in the 18-month-long government of Massimo D'Alema which collapsed last week, is expected to put his government, formed Tuesday evening, to the required confidence votes in both chambers of Parliament in the next couple of days.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Chinese army exercises part of military move
Chinese army exercises part of military move TAIPEI (AFP): Taiwan said stepped-up Chinese military exercises were aimed at cranking up psychological pressure on Taipei and urged its population not to panic over escalating tensions on Wednesday. Lin Chon-pin, vice chairman of the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) which formulates the island's China policy, said the exercises were the result of Chinese research. "They have conducted in-depth research on psychological warfare," warned Lin.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Rare Bali starling on the brink of extinction
Rare Bali starling on the brink of extinction By Ketut Sutika DENPASAR, Bali (ANTARA): A century ago, Bali was a paradise for the rare starling leucopsar rothschildi, a small white bird with black wing tips and a brilliant aqua-blue streak around the eyes. Thousands or maybe millions of beautiful starlings once occupied the 6,000 hectares of Prapat Agung Bali, now the location of Taman Nasional Bali Barat, or the West Bali National Park.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Fed concerned U.S. economy showing no signs of slowing
Fed concerned U.S. economy showing no signs of slowing WASHINGTON (AFP): The U.S. economy is showing no sign of slowing and is producing upward wage and price pressures, a Federal Reserve Bank president warned here on Tuesday. "The latest data has raised my level of concern," Alfred Broaddus told reporters after a speech. Broaddus, head of the Federal Reserve Bank in Richmond, Virginia, is also a voting member of the Fed's policymaking Open Market Committee.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Violence flares in Ambon after Megawati departure
Violence flares in Ambon after Megawati departure AMBON, Maluku (JP): Two men were killed here on Wednesday only hours after Vice President Megawati Soekarnoputri left the provincial capital on a two-day visit aimed at effecting peace in the prolonged sectarian conflict. The men were killed in Waihaong district. Berti Diaz, 22, from Batu Meja and Rido Nikijuluw died from stab wounds to the right sides of their abdomens.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Two Koreas set to hold crucial talks for summit; tension eases
Two Koreas set to hold crucial talks for summit; tension eases SEOUL (AFP): North and South Korea are to hold a crucial second round of talks to prepare for a historic inter-Korean summit as attention is fixed on the agenda Pyongyang will possibly table for the June meeting. "We have prepared all possible scenarios and different responses," a high-ranking South Korean government official was quoted as saying by Yonhap news agency.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
Iraq offers to cooperate with UN after lifting of sanctions
Iraq offers to cooperate with UN after lifting of sanctions BAGHDAD (Agencies): Iraq will be ready to cooperate with the United Nations Security Council once the decade-old embargo has been lifted, an official newspaper said on Wednesday. "Iraq is not refusing to cooperate with the Security Council and is not the stubborn and aggressive country it is made out to be in the Western media," said the ruling Baath party's mouthpiece, Ath-Thawra.
Thu, 27 Apr 2000, 00:00 WIB
KL lawyers urge brutality probe
KL lawyers urge brutality probe KUALA LUMPUR (AFP): A group of Malaysian lawyers urged the government on Wednesday to probe allegations of police brutality on opposition supporters during April 15 street protests. The Legal Aid Center, which represented 48 people arrested during the protests to mark the first anniversary of ex-deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim's sentencing, said it had received complaints of harsh police treatment.