Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 November 2001

86 articles found

BCA sale expected in 3rd week of December

BCA sale expected in 3rd week of December The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA) said in a statement on Tuesday that its divestment of Bank Central Asia (BCA) was expected to be finalized in the third week of December. IBRA said that the selection process considering the 15 preliminary bidders would be concluded at the end of this month. From the 15 bidders, five are foreign investors, the agency said without disclosing names.

100 days of Megawati's administration

100 days of Megawati's administration November 19 marked 100 days of the Megawati-Hamzah administration. Indonesia has been in a protracted crisis for far too long. In four years, four presidents have come and gone. Naturally, much hope is psychologically pinned on the present administration. Now that the three months' honeymoon period is over, what can we say about this administration? Well, not very encouraging, for a start. The President and her ministers are not quite pro-active.

HIV/AIDS cases hike to 18 in Samarinda

HIV/AIDS cases hike to 18 in Samarinda SAMARINDA, East Kalimantan: Chairman of local chapter of the AIDS controlling agency, Waris Husain, revealed that the victims of HIV/AIDS here has increased to 18 people from the last year's 17 cases. Waris said that most of the cases were found at the red-light areas or masseur parlors since the virus, which attacks human's immunity, can easily be contracted through unsafe sexual intercourse.

Partnership researches encouraged

Partnership researches encouraged JAKARTA: The Ministry of Research and Technology is determined to continue to promote partnership researches between government institutions and industries in a response to the rapid advancement of science and technology. The program, called the Partnership Excellence Research (RUK) 2002, is aimed at developing mutual relations between state research agencies and manufacturers, said Finarya Legoh, a deputy minister of research and technology.

Govt to merge four banks this year

Govt to merge four banks this year The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government announced on Tuesday that it would merge four banks including publicly listed Bank Universal, Bank Bali and non-listed Bank Prima Express and Bank Patriot in a bid to restructure the country's troubled banking industry.

Tiarma Siboro

Tiarma Siboro The Jakarta Post Jakarta Former deputy chief of finance at the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) Achmad Ruskandar revealed the most damaging evidence yet against House Speaker Akbar Tandjung on Tuesday, saying that he personally handed over checks worth Rp 40 billion (US$3.9 million) to then-State Secretary/Cabinet Secretary Akbar in 1999. Achmad's claim, however, contradicts earlier statements by Akbar.

The insensitive, puzzling policy of tightened visa checks to U.S.

The insensitive, puzzling policy of tightened visa checks to U.S. V.K. Chin, The Star, Asia News Network, Kuala Lumpur For obvious reasons, Malaysia is puzzled by the decision to subject Malaysian men between the ages of 16 and 45 to stricter background checks when applying for a visa to visit the United States.

S'pore funds high-tech training

S'pore funds high-tech training Agence France Presse, Singapore Singapore on Tuesday pledged to invest about US$10 million to groom a pool of high-tech professionals over the next three years despite the recession and the dotcom collapse. The fund will go towards the local and overseas training and attachment of fresh graduates and professionals, and will complement two separate Internet training programs launched in June.

Ciputat fire kills four

Ciputat fire kills four JAKARTA: A cooker exploded on Monday afternoon at a house on Jl. Cendrawasih, Ciputat, Tangerang, killing four people and severely injuring one person. The victims were identified as Acih Mintarsih, 40 and two of her children, Asep, 20 and Irma, 17, as well as their carpenter neighbor Parno, who died on the spot. The injured man, Maman Rahman, 45, Acih's husband, was still being treated in hospital.

Amid mass prayers, Ambon paralyzed

Amid mass prayers, Ambon paralyzed Novi Pinontoan, The Jakarta Post, Ambon Christians in Ambon, the capital of strife-torn Maluku, began three days of mass prayers on Tuesday, paralyzing almost all activities from administrative, schooling to public transportation both on land and sea. The mass prayers, called Hari Perkabungan (Days of Mourning), are an expression of growing concern in response to a series of violence which resulted in at least 10 deaths and the injury of dozens this month.

Three discos to be closed

Three discos to be closed Ahmad Junaidi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta City Governor Sutiyoso ordered the City Public Order Office on Tuesday to close three discotheques in the downtown Kota area, West Jakarta, for illegally operating during the fasting month of Ramadhan. "If they are found to be operating during Ramadhan, they should be closed. I have ordered the public order office to close the entertainment venues," Sutiyoso said at City Hall. He said the discotheques, located on Jl.

Revive our badminton success

Revive our badminton success From Warta Kota As a badminton buff, I feel concerned about some cases that have afflicted the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI). There has been a growing trend for top badminton players to draw back from defending their own country at international events. It seems that both executive boards and athletes are not in the same boat. Each of them feels that they are right, which only brings dissatisfaction to themselves.

Convicted Poso killers' appeal denied, face death

Convicted Poso killers' appeal denied, face death Badri Djawara, The Jakarta Post, Palu The Supreme Court has rejected the appeals submitted by three men who were sentenced to death for committing a series of murders between May and June of 2000 in the strife-torn regency of Poso, Central Sulawesi.

Street vendors mushrooming in Ramadhan

Street vendors mushrooming in Ramadhan Street vendors (left photo) almost totally cover a street near Tanah Abang textile and garment market in Central Jakarta, causing horrendous traffic jams in the area. The number of street vendors in the area is increasing drastically, especially during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadhan, a peak season for garment traders.

New layout okay

New layout okay I have just read letters criticizing the new layout of The Jakarta Post. In my opinion it is a matter of taste. Someone may dislike this new layout, but so far I like it. I think many other readers also like it. I have read the Post since the year it was published. I find it has improved a lot especially concerning the quality of printing, photos, articles etc. One thing that annoys me with this new layout is the half loose pages (7-8 and 17-18).

Court to decide on Bere's trial Tuesday

Court to decide on Bere's trial Tuesday JAKARTA: The Central Jakarta District Court will decide next Tuesday whether to continue or suspend the trial against militiaman Yacobus Bere, who is charged with the murder of a New Zealand peacekeeper in East Timor last year. The pro-Indonesia East Timorese Bere is accused of murdering Pvt. Leonard William Manning, 24, on 24 July 2000 in Suai when the victim was serving with the United Nations peacekeeping force in East Timor.

1. Azyu --

1. Azyu -- Megawati's presidency: Challenge of political Islam 1 X 35 50pt Bodoni Part 1 of 2 The challenge of political Islam Azyumardi Azra Rector State Islamic Studies Institute (IAIN) Jakarta 2. Visa -- 1 X 55 36pt Bodoni Tightened visa checks to U.S. are insensitive V.K. Chin The Star Asia News Network Kuala Lumpur 3.

Do you children snore? Keep an eye on them

Do you children snore? Keep an eye on them Primastuti Handayani, The Jakarta Post, Singapore Most parents tend to ignore their snoring children. They are not aware that snoring is a sign of abnormality. Parents usually consider it to be a habit. "Our parents and grandparents also snore," is their most common reason.

Stock Exchange

Stock Exchange Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Nov. 20, 2001: Shares Close Change Trading Volume ------------------------------------------------------- Ades Alfindo 1,175 0 22,500 Adindo Foresta 85 0 0 AGIS 135 -10 3,314,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 170 -10 11,000 Alakasa 185 35 500 Alfa Retailindo 775 0 95,000 Alter Abadi 55 0 0 Alumindo Light 475 0 2,000 Andhi Chandra 1,850 0 0 Aneka Kimia Raya 285 30 30,500 Aneka Tambang 775 0 408,500 Apac Citra 265 0 0 Aqua Golden 25,000...

Bank Mandiri cancels plan to acquire ailing BII

Bank Mandiri cancels plan to acquire ailing BII Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government decided to drop earlier plans to merge state- owned Bank Mandiri with publicly listed Bank Internasional Indonesia (BII) citing improvement in the latter's financial condition.

Jambi threatens to deport 355 Indian citizens

Jambi threatens to deport 355 Indian citizens JAMBI: The immigration office here has threatened to deport 355 Indian citizens in the province who have overstayed there visas. "So far, 355 Indian citizens who have been employed in numerous companies in the province have yet to extend their visas, which have been expiring. Those who are found guilty of violating the immigration law will be deported by force," Sjafrulla Djabarti, chief of the local immigration office, said here Tuesday.

Armies launch ASEAN offensive

Armies launch ASEAN offensive Just a week after the leaders of ASEAN waffled over concrete steps against terrorism, the region's top army commanders showed more unity and efficiency. All 10 of the generals met in Manila, for only the second time in ASEAN's history. The remarkable feature of this military co-operation is that -- so far, at least the men in green are not asking for either special powers nor baskets of money. Nor does the plan seem likely to obstruct honest citizens or tourists.

Lawmakers to prioritize five bills

Lawmakers to prioritize five bills Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The House of Representatives (DPR) will prioritize bills on money laundering, electricity, investment, police and state defense during its next working period, which will only last for 18 days, House Speaker Akbar Tandjung announced on Tuesday.

IBRA to raise Rp 24t in cash this month

IBRA to raise Rp 24t in cash this month The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA) said Tuesday that by the end of the month it will have achieved 88 percent of its target cash earnings of Rp 27 trillion (about US$2.5 billion) for the 2001 state budget. IBRA Chairman I Putu Gede Ary Suta said that the agency will receive an additional Rp 3.5 trillion later in the month so that "as of Nov.

IMF, Indonesia reach agreement on fourth LoI

IMF, Indonesia reach agreement on fourth LoI Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government reached an agreement on Tuesday with the visiting International Monetary Fund (IMF) team over the economic reform policies to be implemented next year, a statement said. IMF senior adviser for Asia Pacific Daniel Citrin said in the statement that the letter of intent (LoI) would be presented to IMF management in Washington for approval.

Workers protest low severance pay

Workers protest low severance pay JAKARTA: Dozens of workers from bag manufacturer PT Tassa Zenis Indonesia in Tangerang staged a rally in front of the Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration building on Monday, protesting the low severance payment given by their company. "The company management only provided some Rp 900 million in severance payment for around 660 workers dismissed on Nov. 8," said the workers' spokesman, Nurcholish.

Tennis coach questions players call-up

Tennis coach questions players call-up The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Febi Widhiyanto and troubled Hendri Susilo Pramono have been summoned to the Indonesian tennis squad for the 2002 Asian Games, but their mentor is far from enthusiastic. The invitation for Febi and Hendri to join the national training camp for the Games was notified to their coach Deddy Prasetyo on Tuesday.

No guarantee exists to control budget: Minister

No guarantee exists to control budget: Minister Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta None of the existing systems or officials can guarantee that irregularities in the management of state budget funds will not recur in the future, no matter how hard inspectors general within the ministries strive to control use of the funds, a state minister said on Tuesday.

New IMF loan talk fails to cheer stocks

New IMF loan talk fails to cheer stocks Jill Wong, Reuters, Hong Kong News of possible fresh lending to Indonesia from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) failed to cheer the Jakarta stock market on Tuesday which tracked regional losses. The IMF and Indonesia reached an agreement on broad economic reforms to be implemented next year, spurring hopes over the country's efforts to revive foreign investor confidence after four years of crisis.

Sailendra: Restaurant truly fit for a king

Sailendra: Restaurant truly fit for a king Bill Blade, Contributor, Jakarta The Sailendra, J.W. Marriot Hotel, Jl. Lingkar Mega Kuningan Kav A 1.2 No. 1 & 2, Mega Kuningan, Jakarta 12950. For reservations call 57988888. All major credit cards accepted (quoted prices exclude 10% tax and 10% service charge) Jakarta has a new restaurant that's fit for a king, or should be if its name is anything to go by. The Sailendra, located in the highly impressive new J.W.

BI loan probe may boost confidence: Experts

BI loan probe may boost confidence: Experts The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A new investigation into the alleged misuse of Rp 138.4 trillion (about US$13 billion) of Bank Indonesia (BI) liquidity support loans, could be a good opportunity to bolster public confidence in the government, but a failure to deliver results could prove costly to the country's frail economy, experts said.

Two bus drivers wanted for arson attack, murder

Two bus drivers wanted for arson attack, murder Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Two bus drivers are wanted by the police in connection with an arson attack on a bus on Jl. Condet Raya, Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta, and the murder of its driver, a police officer said on Tuesday. "Both suspects are still at large, but we will immediately arrest them as we've got their names," Pasar Rebo Police subprecinct chief Adj. Comr. Rusidi D.T. told The Jakarta Post.

WBC warns Indonesia of sanctions over ring deaths

WBC warns Indonesia of sanctions over ring deaths Musthofid, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The World Boxing Council (WBC) is likely to sanction Indonesia over the number of deaths in the country's boxing rings. However, a local boxing official has complained that the reports have been blown out of proportion.

Police arrest robbery suspect

Police arrest robbery suspect JAKARTA: Central Jakarta Police detectives arrested a man suspected of having masterminded a series of armed holdups of bank customers in Jakarta after a month-long investigation into the crimes, a police officer announced on Tuesday. Jakarta Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Anton Bachrul Alam said police seized the suspect, named Agung Widodo, 29, in Sunday's raid on his hiding place in Bantul, Yogyakarta.

Rupiah Rates Nov.20

Rupiah Rates Nov.20 Bank notes rates TT rates Selling Buying Selling Buying Rp Rp Rp Rp U.S.

Indonesian charged with assisting suspected terrorists

Indonesian charged with assisting suspected terrorists Tiarma Siboro and Emmy Fitri, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta An Indonesian man, whom the FBI named as a contact person for airline hijacker Mohammad Atta, was arrested and charged with helping to obtain a fake driver's license for another man identified as a contact for Osama bin Laden, AP reported on Tuesday. A criminal complaint filed on Monday charged Agus Budiman with helping Mohammad Bin Nasser Belfas obtain a Virginia driver's license.

Three workers charged as suspects

Three workers charged as suspects TANGERANG: The police have charged as suspects three out of eight protesting workers who were arrested during a rally at PT Koinus Jaya Garment on Jl. Imam Bonjol, Karawaci, last week. Tangerang police detective's deputy chief, Insp. Kustanto, said on Tuesday that there were strong indications that Luciana, 26, Sri Hayati, 26, and Siti Suryani, 23, had incited their fellow protestors to commit acts of vandalism during the rally.

City plans to tax vendors next year

City plans to tax vendors next year Ahmad Junaidi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The city administration is planning to legalize some 600,000 street vendors operating in Jakarta and collect tax in moves estimated to add Rp 238 billion (US$23.8 million) to city coffers next year. City Cooperatives and Small Enterprises Agency informal sector division head Sukma Jaya said on Tuesday that the administration was preparing a bylaw to collect money from street vendors.

Minimum wage in E. Kalimantan set

Minimum wage in E. Kalimantan set The East Kalimantan governor issued a decree on Monday stipulating the monthly minimum wage was hiked to Rp 500,000 for the 2002 fiscal year from the current Rp 300,000. The deputy chief of the local manpower and transmigration ministry office Syahrial A.B., said the decree was endorsed on Nov. 15, 2001 and was scheduled to be effective starting on Jan 1. 2002.

124 suspects detained

124 suspects detained JAKARTA: Police seized a total of 124 suspects in some 83 drug-related cases during its three-week anti-drug campaign aimed at cracking down on the crime in the capital, a city police spokesman reported on Tuesday. "The suspects were seized in raids conducted by the Jakarta police precincts," said Sr. Comr. Anton Bachrul Alam.

Conoco-Phillips merger means more investment in Asia

Conoco-Phillips merger means more investment in Asia Dow Jones, Singapore The planned merger of Phillips Petroleum Co. and Conoco Inc. will expand the new company's portfolio in Asia and position it for further expansion, particularly in the region's upstream sector, according to analysts.

Damaging revelations for Akbar

Damaging revelations for Akbar Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former deputy chief of finance at the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) Achmad Ruskandar revealed the most damaging evidence yet against House Speaker Akbar Tandjung on Tuesday. Ruskandar said that he personally handed over checks worth Rp 40 billion (US$3.9 million) to then-State Secretary/Cabinet Secretary Akbar in 1999. Ruskandar's claim, however, contradicts earlier statements by Akbar.

Challenge of political Islam to Megawati

Challenge of political Islam to Megawati Azyumardi Azra, Rector, State Islamic Studies Institute (IAIN), Jakarta The waves of anti-American mass-demonstrations seem to have decreased significantly. But this does not mean that "political Islam" will also diminish. There is strong evidence that political Islam, which has gained momentum since the fall of Soeharto, may continue to exert itself in the era of President Megawati Soekarnoputri and even afterwards.

Tiarma Siboro

Tiarma Siboro The Jakarta Post Jakarta Former deputy chief of finance at the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) Achmad Ruskandar revealed the most damaging evidence yet against House Speaker Akbar Tandjung on Tuesday, saying that he personally handed over checks worth Rp 40 billion (US$3.9 million) to then-State Secretary/Cabinet Secretary Akbar in 1999. Achmad's claim, however, contradicts earlier statements by Akbar.

Workers' trial protested

Workers' trial protested Some 150 members of the Karya Utama Labor Federation (FSKU) staged a rally in front of the Tangerang District Court on Tuesday to protest against the trial of one of their colleagues Hamdani. Hamdani, 25, is being tried for the alleged theft of a pair of sandals belonging to PT Osaga, where he used to work. "The court must stop the trial because the prosecutor's claims are inaccurate and fabricated," FSKU coordinator Rostina said.

Third place good enough for RI to reach Uber Cup finals: Coach

Third place good enough for RI to reach Uber Cup finals: Coach Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia will only need to finish third in the Uber Cup (women's championship) Asia Oceania zone semifinal round to qualify for the finals in May, but Indonesian head coach Christian Hadinata said on Tuesday that the team would not take the matches lightly.

Antiterrorism: The magic wand?

Antiterrorism: The magic wand? Conrado de Quiros, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Asia News Network, Manila "Global terrorism poses an imminent threat to international peace and security.

Akbar seeks quick appointment for new police chief

Akbar seeks quick appointment for new police chief Abu Hanifah, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The House of Representatives have begun to assess the nomination of Comm. Gen. Da'i Bachtiar for National Police chief on Tuesday, with House Speaker Akbar Tandjung calling on members to complete the process before Nov. 30.

Floods threaten W. Kalimantan

Floods threaten W. Kalimantan PONTIANAK, W. Kalimantan: Following incessant rain over the last week, floods are threatening to inundate almost all cities in the province, particularly affecting people living in low- lying areas. According to Antara on Tuesday, rainfall had not ceased in the province and was predicted to reach between 13 and 14 centimeters in the coming weeks. M.

List of death inmates

List of death inmates Year of Date of Name cases Places verdicts execution 1. Adisaputro murder Surabaya 1992 unknown 2. Kartachayadi murder Semarang 1992 5/4/1995 3. Tugiman murder Semarang 1992 unknown 4. Koh Kim Chea murder Batam 1992 unknown 5. Suryadi murder Palembang 1992 unknown 6. Surya Dharma subversion Lokseumawe 1993 unknown 7. Kacong Laranu murder Palu 1993 31/1/1995 8. Frederick Soru murder Kupang 1994 20/5/2001 9. Dance Soru murder Kupang 1994 20/5/2001 10.

Headings:

Headings: 1. Refuge: 10 x 4 lines: Australia supports repatriation of refugees 2. Ancam: 20 x 2 lines: Students threaten to 'try' corruptors in North Sumatra 3. PRD: 16 x 2 lines PRD activist denies charges 4. Tutup: 24 x 2 lines Entertainment centers to close on religious holidays 5. Ambon: 16 x 2 lines Amid mass prayers Ambon paralyzed

OPEC and rival

OPEC and rival producers to act together OPEC and rival oil producers to agree on action: Moscow OPEC and rival crude producers will agree on measures to stabilize the global oil market in the coming days, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Viktor Khristenko said on Tuesday cited by Interfax. "Supplementary measures will be decided" following consultations between Moscow and members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) as well as other non-OPEC producers, Khristenko said.

Ramadhan time for Jakarta

Ramadhan time for Jakarta Wednesday Maghrib 5:55 p.m. Thursday Imsak 3:55 a.m. Subuh 4:05 a.m.

Where to go in Surabaya:

Where to go in Surabaya: Exhibitions * Photo Gresik Traditional Harbor.. by Infinity group, CCCL - French Cultural Center, Jl. Darmokali 10 (Tel. 031 5615246), until Nov. 24. * Photo In the North Beach of Madura Island by Focus group, CCCL - French Cultural Center, Nov. 26 to Dec. 8. Music and Entertainment * Hyatt Regency Surabaya, Jl. Jend. Basuki Rakhmat 106-128 (Tel. 031 5311234): - Lobby: Solo Pianist, every Morning, 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., Monday to Saturday Evening, 5:30 p.m.

Australia supports repatriation of refugees

Australia supports repatriation of refugees Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang The Australian government fully supports Indonesia's policy of halting food aid to East Timorese refugees in East Nusa Tenggara province by the end of December 2001 as part of an effort to help solve the refugee problem, an Australian diplomat has said.

Local government to help ailing Timah

Local government to help ailing Timah Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Bangka Belitung provincial administration has promised to ban the export of tin concentrate in the future to curb illegal mining activities on the islands and prevent state-owned tin mining firm PT Timah from collapsing, a senior official said on Tuesday.

Kontras, Amnesty International criticize justice system

Kontras, Amnesty International criticize justice system The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The watchdog group National Commission on Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras) is of the opinion that torture, especially during the interrogation of suspects in the country, will not end if the state fails to thoroughly improve the criminal justice system.

Eight killed in Yogyakarta landslide: Eight people are presumed

Eight killed in Yogyakarta landslide: Eight people are presumed dead after landslides buried their houses in the village of Purwoharjo in Kulon Progo regency, Yogyakarta, on Tuesday afternoon. Two bodies have been recovered, while six others remain under the mud. The search for the other six was halted as dark fell, but will resume on Wednesday.

DPR applies new code of ethics

DPR applies new code of ethics JAKARTA: A team of the House of Representatives (DPR) in charge of deliberating the House code of ethics announced on Tuesday a plan to socialize the new code of ethics among legislators so as to help improve their performance. Handjojo Putra, chairman of the team, expressed disappointment over the poor performance of the legislators despite the endorsement of the new code.

Gus Dur warns government not to meddle with PKB

Gus Dur warns government not to meddle with PKB Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former president Abdurrahman 'Gus Dur' Wahid warned the government on Tuesday against meddling in the dispute within his National Awakening Party (PKB). Gus Dur, chairman of PKB's board of patrons, said the government's decision to delay the disbursement of a Rp 14 billion state fund for his camp could be interpreted as an intervention in the party's affairs.

Airline ticket availability scarce until 'Idul Fitri'

Airline ticket availability scarce until 'Idul Fitri' Annastashya Emmanuelle, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Although the Idul Fitri holiday is still three weeks away, airline tickets for domestic flights have been booked since October and the possibility of getting a seat two days before Idul Fitri will be almost impossible, travel agents say. At some travel bureaus, domestic flights to routes such as Denpasar, Padang, Makassar, Medan and Yogyakarta have been fully booked for travel from Dec.

Clear rules needed for regional autonomy

Clear rules needed for regional autonomy Gustaf Tamo Mbapa, Former Chairman, Kupang Chapter, Indonesian Catholic Students Association, West Nusa Tenggara Since the nation achieved independence in 1945, Jakarta has always harbored the fear that investing regions with power to manage their respective territories would lead to disintegration. At the end of the 1950s, several rebellions emerged against Jakarta's domination, such as those in Sumatra and South Sulawesi.

Akbar seeks a quick appointment for new police chief

Akbar seeks a quick appointment for new police chief Abu Hanifah The Jakarta Post Jakarta The House of Representatives have begun to assess the nomination of Comm. Gen. Da'i Bachtiar for National Police chief on Tuesday, with House Speaker Akbar Tandjung calling on members to complete the process before Nov. 30.

Two robbers nabbed in Pekanbaru

Two robbers nabbed in Pekanbaru PEKANBARU, Riau: Locals apprehended two armed robbers attempting to rob a woman waiting for a bus in the city on Tuesday. The two thieves, identified as And, 27, and Jfk, 37, were assaulted by the crowd while another, 26-year-old Mul, escaped. Evidayanti, whose wallet was stolen, said she was robbed by the three men after they forced her and her son into the minivan they were driving. "I was screaming for help when the three robbed by bag and took my wallet.

Indonesians face trial in U.S.

Indonesians face trial in U.S. JAKARTA: Eleven Indonesians recently arrested at their rented apartment by police in New Hampshire, the United States, for overstaying their visa will be taken to court on Wednesday (local time), an Indonesian diplomat has said. I Ngurah Swetja, Indonesian consul general in New York, said on Monday that he had received the information on the date of their trial while visiting them in their cells in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

JP/17/Brief

JP/17/Brief The Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency announced on Tuesday that it was offering interested buyers its entire 72.6 percent stake in the Salim Group's listed auto company PT Indomobil Sukses International and the Rp 650.28 billion (US$61.6 million) Indomobil convertible bonds it currently holds. The bonds can be converted into common shares in Indomobil, the agency said in a statement. -- JP Nintendo Co. Ltd.

Gunungkidul govt to resettle fishermen

Gunungkidul govt to resettle fishermen YOGYAKARTA: The Gunungkidul administration will conduct a transmigration program aimed at resettling local fishermen to areas near their work in the regency. Wagiran, chief of the local manpower and transmigration ministry office, said here on Tuesday that during the first phase, the local administration would relocate 100 fishermen living in Kanogoro village to a coastal area in Saptosari subdistrict.

Sukarno's teaching still relevant

Sukarno's teaching still relevant From Rakyat Merdeka I respond to the polemic as to whether or not Marhaenism -- the Indonesian National Party (PNI) ideology to eliminate poverty developed and adopted by the late first president Bung Karno -- is still relevant in solving Indonesia's current problems.

Indonesia must join Afghan mission

Indonesia must join Afghan mission Bantarto Bandoro, Editor, The Indonesian Quarterly, Centre for Strategic and International Studies, Jakarta It has been widely reported that the opposition Northern Alliance has finally captured Kabul. The Taliban regime has been forced to move to its two remaining strongholds, Kandahar and Kundus. New hopes grow, but anxiety and fear remains. This is only a small part of what will be the larger and longer story of Afghanistan.

So much to do, so little time

So much to do, so little time Honorable members of the House of Representatives returned to work on Tuesday for a new session that will last only 18 working days because of the upcoming Idul Fitri, Christmas and New Year holidays. With so much to do and so little time at its disposal, the House would be wise to utilize it optimally to produce one or two tangible results.

Nonviolence demonstration

Nonviolence demonstration As one of the participants of a demonstration I object to a news report in The Jakarta Post saying that the demonstration was coordinated by Endang. The action was organized by LBH APIK NTB, a legal aid institution in West Nusa Tenggara, to celebrate the anniversary of the institution and the day of nonviolence against women all over the world. I participated in the demonstration because I am one of the clients of LBH APIK NTB.

PRD activist denies anti-government charges

PRD activist denies anti-government charges Ainur R. Sophiaan, The Jakarta Post, Surabaya The chairman of the East Java chapter of the People's Democratic Party (PRD), Eusebius Purwadi, denied charges that he had circulated antigovernment pamphlets and incited local people to reject President Megawati Soekarnoputri's government.

Students threaten to 'try' corruptors in North Sumatra

Students threaten to 'try' corruptors in North Sumatra Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan The Red and White Banner Student Forum (Formad) branches in Medan State University and the North Sumatra University have threatened to round up local officials who are involved in corruption, which the students claim has reached an alarming level in the province, unless law enforcers bring them to justice.

"This rampant corruption will only be capable of being

"This rampant corruption will only be capable of being eliminated if a state of emergency is declared, and all corruptors punished to the full extent of the law." Irham B. Nasution

Rumors rife on Dorodjatun resignation

Rumors rife on Dorodjatun resignation The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Rumors were spreading quickly on Tuesday evening that Coordinating Minister for the Economy Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti had tendered his resignation to President Megawati Soekarnoputri. However, the rumors were rejected by an assistant to the coordinating minister for the economy, Dipo Alam, who claimed that they were false. "These are rumors. They are not true.

Boyce's job in Indonesia

Boyce's job in Indonesia The new U.S. ambassador to Indonesia, Ralph L. Boyce, has surely found out that his job here will not be a boring one. When the massive anti-American demonstrations by political parties and Islamic organizations that took place following the U.S.

Public disappointment

Public disappointment From Gamma The multi-faceted crisis, which has hit all Indonesians, has not weakened but become stronger as the days wear on. Various kinds of tricks and strategies, which some administrative experts have studied and applied, have failed to expel the giant crisis from this country. People really expected the government to manage the country well, honestly and based on regulations that benefit all. Yet, it has just been an empty promise.

1. VENDOR: 50 pt, 2 cols, 4 x 10

1. VENDOR: 50 pt, 2 cols, 4 x 10 City plans to tax vendors next year 2. TRANSPORT: 40 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 28 Airline ticket availability scarce until 'Idul Fitri' 3. FIRE: 28 pt, 2 cols, 1 x 22 A fire in Ciputat kills four JP/6/FIRE Ciputat fire kills four 4. City- 1x25 Three discos to be closed 3. Condet - 1x18 Two wanted for arson attack

BKKBN likely to introduce emergency contraceptive pills

BKKBN likely to introduce emergency contraceptive pills Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is considering the possibility of introducing the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) to help prevent the high prevalence of unwanted pregnancies due to rape or contraceptive failure, an official of the National Family Planning Board (BKKBN) said on Tuesday.

Entertainment centers in West Java to close on religious holidays

Entertainment centers in West Java to close on religious holidays Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung Following a month-long polemic between the owners of entertainment venues and local Muslim organizations, the West Java provincial legislative council passed a bill on the closure of entertainment centers, restaurants and nightspots during certain religious events into a bylaw that came into effect as of Nov. 20.

Aussie attitude toward Indonesia

Aussie attitude toward Indonesia I refer to Mr. Jusuf Wanandi's article (The Jakarta Post, Nov. 15) and Australian Ambassador R.C. Smith's reply (Nov. 17). I wish to agree with Mr. Wanandi and thank Mr. Smith at the same time for his elaborate explanation. Although Mr. Smith means well, Australians are famous for their lack of tolerance toward non-Caucasians. Mr.

Ticket requests begin to rise before 'Lebaran'

Ticket requests begin to rise before 'Lebaran' Annastashya Emmanuelle The Jakarta Post Jakarta Although the Idul Fitri holiday is still three weeks away, airline tickets for domestic flights have been booked since October and the possibility of getting a seat two days before Idul Fitri will be almost impossible, travel agents say. At some travel bureaus, domestic flights to routes such as Denpasar, Padang, Makassar, Medan and Yogyakarta have been fully booked for travel from Dec.

Award for Hotel Borobudur

Award for Hotel Borobudur JAKARTA: Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso has granted the Adikarya Wisata Award to Hotel Borobudur for its dedication to tourism development. The five-star hotel, which received the award on Wednesday, was first opened in 1974. After undergoing a 22-month renovation it was reopened in 1998. Located in Central Jakarta, Hotel Borobudur has 695 rooms, 140 garden suite apartments and international standard health facilities. --JP

PDI-P defends Taufik's role as politician

PDI-P defends Taufik's role as politician Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) defended on Tuesday the role of Taufik Kiemas, the husband of President Megawati Soekarnoputri, against a call for him to resign from the House of Representatives to avoid any conflict of interest.

House to decide on Akbar query on Thursday

House to decide on Akbar query on Thursday Kurniawan Hari and Abu Hanifah, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The question of whether the House of Representatives will form a special committee to probe a Rp 54.6 billion (about US$5 million) scandal, in which House Speaker Akbar Tandjung has been implicated, will be answered soon when its Consultative Body (Bamus) convenes a meeting on Thursday.

Legislators' moral ills

Legislators' moral ills From Rakyat Merdeka It is ironic that Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR) Akbar Tandjung received tight security protection from his "bodyguards" some time ago, particularly as he was asked to testify in the case of misappropriation of non-budgetary funds from the State Logistics Agency (Bulog). A sensible observation will show that the examination of this case is under the authority and responsibility of law enforcers.