Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 November 2002

90 articles found

INPEX discovers major gas in Timor Sea Block

INPEX discovers major gas in Timor Sea Block Dow Jones, Tokyo Japan's INPEX Corp. said Friday it has confirmed a large natural gas accumulation in an offshore block in the Timor Sea, Indonesia. The block, Masela PSC, is located about 800 kilometers east of the city of Kupang, Indonesia, and 400 kilometers north of Darwin, Australia. INPEX's two appraisal wells, Abadi-2 and Abadi-3, tested a total 32.4 million cubic feet a day of natural gas - or equivalent to 5,600 barrels a day of crude oil.

Police to keep Rizieq in custody

Police to keep Rizieq in custody JAKARTA: Police will continue to hold the Islam Defenders Front (FPI) chairman, Al Habib Rizieq Shihab, who is charged with instigating violence and vandalism, for questioning, a senior police officer said on Friday. "We still need to interrogate Rizieq further as we haven't yet completed the case file," said city police detectives chief Sr. Comr. Andi Chaerudin.

Summarecon's indifference

Summarecon's indifference I live in Bukit Gading Villa, which is an "elite" area of Kelapa Gading. We moved to this expensive area to live in the quiet, peaceful and security-controlled comfort that this area supposedly provides, because where we lived previously there was no control, poor security and Summarecon did not take care to control construction activities or the construction crews that were building next door.

Asian monies down late, softer yen lifts dollar

Asian monies down late, softer yen lifts dollar Alan Yonan Jr., Dow Jones, Singapore Most Asian currencies weakened modestly or were little changed Friday as a softer yen helped the dollar regain some ground in the region after it had struggled for most of the week. The South Korean won, Thai baht and New Taiwan dollar fell against the U.S. currency. The Indonesian rupiah and Singapore dollar were little changed. The peso wasn't traded because markets in Manila were closed for a holiday.

Will RI get tougher after Bali shock?

Will RI get tougher after Bali shock? Barry Desker, Director, Institute of Defense and Strategic Studies, The Straits Times, Asia News Network, Singapore The Bali bomb blasts that killed almost 200 foreign tourists and Indonesians on Oct. 12 shook Indonesia to its core. While investigations are in progress, there is strong circumstantial evidence that Jamaah Islamiyah (JI) extremists were responsible for the attacks. The question now is, will Indonesia act decisively against the extremists?

Firecracker business booming despite ban

Firecracker business booming despite ban Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Jakarta Police's ambitious goal of a firecracker-free Ramadhan has gone up in smoke, with trade in the potentially fatal and extremely loud explosive devices booming. Firecrackers are available for sale in most markets, including Tanah Abang in Central Jakarta, Jatinegara in East Jakarta and around Blok M in South Jakarta.

Aceh governor seeks talks with GAM leader Hasan Tiro

Aceh governor seeks talks with GAM leader Hasan Tiro The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Aceh Governor Abdullah Puteh said on Friday that he wanted to hold talks with Free Aceh Movement (GAM) top leader Hasan Tiro during upcoming peace talks between the government and GAM in Geneva, which is scheduled for Nov. 3 and Nov. 4. "It depends on the mechanism of the dialog. The meeting could take place on the sidelines of the peace talks.

ASEAN-China summit in Cambodia to chart closer relations

ASEAN-China summit in Cambodia to chart closer relations S. Pushpanathan, Assistant Director, External Relations, ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta ASEAN and China will be holding their annual summit on 4 Nov. 4, 2001 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The forthcoming summit will be a landmark meeting as ASEAN and China would be adopting a number of significant agreements that would guide the future of the relations.

Community rags find their niche in housing complexes

Community rags find their niche in housing complexes Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Amid the rapid process of globalization, community media still has its niche especially thanks to its proximity to the readers. Many still believe that such publications serve the needs of their readers better than the more widely-circulated publications as they can tailor their coverage to the needs of the community they serves.

Shopping center boom continues despite economy

Shopping center boom continues despite economy The Jakarta Post Jakarta At least seven new shopping centers plan to start operating in the last quarter of the year throughout Greater Jakarta, adding some 140,000 square meters of retail space in the area, a property consultant said.

Where to go in Jakarta: Saturday, November 2, 2002

Where to go in Jakarta: Saturday, November 2, 2002 Exhibitions * Painting Ziarah Masa Silam by Agussis, Galeri Cipta II, Taman Ismail Marzuki, Jl. Cikini Raya 73, Central Jakarta (Tel. 3140554), 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., until Nov. 7. * Mask by Gallis and Rakidi, The British Council, S. Widjojo Center 1st floor, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 71, South Jakarta (Tel. 2524115), until Dec. 31. * Painting Goresan Warna 2002, World Trade Center, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29-31 South Jakarta, 10 a.m.

ASEAN and China reach agreement on South China Seas: The 10

ASEAN and China reach agreement on South China Seas: The 10 members of ASEAN and China have made a major political breakthrough to prevent an escalation of tensions in the disputed South China Seas, officials said Friday. Chem Widhya, spokesman for the Cambodian foreign ministry, said all members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China had reached a draft agreement on conduct in the region after marathon meetings.

Rikza Abdullah

Rikza Abdullah Contributor Jakarta City boutiques offer more choice of designer clothes As the Idul Fitri, Christmas and New Year holidays draw closer, Jakartans are preparing by visiting boutiques and other stores to find casual dresses that will be suitable for different occasions during the holidays.

Man jumps to death from tower

Man jumps to death from tower JAMBI, Jambi: People in the provincial capital of Jambi were shocked on Friday by a suicide jump allegedly carried out by an identified man from a tower belonging to state telecommunications company Telkom in the downtown area. Jambi Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Allorante said the body of the man was found by a Telkom security guard at around 8 a.m.

'It's better to take what you're given'

'It's better to take what you're given' Despite the fact that the tripartite agreement on the 7 percent provincial minimum wage increase will be implemented in January 2003, many low-income workers are skeptical about the amount of the hike. Their monthly income remains far too small to keep up with inflation. Some of them share their views with The Jakarta Post. Suryani is a saleswoman of a fermented milk product.

Indonesia today: Waiting for a new Bonaparte

Indonesia today: Waiting for a new Bonaparte Part 1 of 2 Satish Mishra Head United Nations Support Facility for Indonesian Recovey Jakarta satish.mishra@undp.org These are confusing times. Indonesia is a country praised for its religious tolerance. Yet it is rocked by religious and ethnic strife. For a quarter of a century it was the home of one of the world's great economic miracles. Today it is in the midst of its deepest economic crisis.

What's up with the clashes?

What's up with the clashes? From Pos Kota In the middle of last August, some National Police Mobile Brigade members based in Kedunghalang clashed with some Army members based in Cibinong, Bogor. The clash claimed a number of lives. Then a similar clash happened in Binjai. It is ironic that the security forces, instead of bringing about peace and security among the public, are involved in clashes. Have our security agencies lost touch with what the public needs?

Five best books to be given awards

Five best books to be given awards JAKARTA: The Buku Utama Foundation has said it would hand out its annual awards for the five best books published in the country in 2000 and 2001 on Nov. 5. Soekarman K, the secretary of the foundation, said the five best books were in the areas of literature, science and technology, social issues, translation and children's books.

16 foreign prostitutes nabbed

16 foreign prostitutes nabbed JAKARTA: Immigration officers arrested 16 foreign women at several hotels and cafes for abusing their visas and working as prostitutes in Jakarta. Spokesman at the ministry of justice immigration directorate general Ade Endang Dahlan said here on Friday that his office had carried out a number of raids on expatriates since Oct. 29 in hotels and other suspect buildings in the city.

Islamic banking institutions to get a major boost in KL

Islamic banking institutions to get a major boost in KL Veeramalla Anjaiah, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Islamic banking sector will get a major boost next week with the launch of an international standard board when central banks of Muslim countries sign comprehensive agreements at a two-day meeting in Kuala Lumpur.

1. Shidiq -- International trade in a cup of coffee

1. Shidiq -- International trade in a cup of coffee 2. Mieko -- Closing loopholes to advance gun control 3. Barry -- Will RI get tougher after Bali shock?

'Bung' Karno's teachings

'Bung' Karno's teachings From Rakyat Merdeka The reform movement has not yet borne fruit because it is not imbued with the teachings of Bung Karno, which stress a love of the people and togetherness in keeping with the ideals of the Aug. 17, 1945 revolution. Now that Soeharto has stepped down from his presidential seat, the stipulation of the People's Consultative Assembly banning Bung Karno's teachings has remained in force.

House divided over antiterrorism rules

House divided over antiterrorism rules Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri will likely face a tough challenge in securing support to go on with her war against terrorism as influential factions in the House of Representatives (DPR) are divided over the antiterrorism regulations and the bill.

Megawati misses chance to prove her leadership

Megawati misses chance to prove her leadership Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri had missed the chance to prove her leadership and rally the country behind her government by not commenting on her antiterrorism drive, experts said Friday.

* Headlines: CGI backs stimulus package for 2003 economy 2

* Headlines: CGI backs stimulus package for 2003 economy 2 * National:House divided over antiterrrorism regulations 4 * Archipelago:Xanana starts four-day visit to W. Timor5 * Opinion:Will RI get tougher after Bali shock?7 * City: Graveyard businesses thrive as Ramadhan nears8 * Sports:Singh, Lowery lead as Tiger struggles9 * World:UN meeting bogged down over emission cuts11 * Business:September export up 4% in 1st growth since June13 * Features: Artist focuses on Iran's real life 20

Most expatriates staying put despite Bali bombing

Most expatriates staying put despite Bali bombing A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Three weeks after the deadly Bali bombing, the number of expatriates working in Indonesia was only down slightly, a senior official at the Ministry of Manpower said Friday.

President Xanana starts four-day visit to W. Timor

President Xanana starts four-day visit to W. Timor Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang East Timor President Jose Alexandre "Xanana" Gusmao started his four-day visit in West Timor with more calls for the repatriation of the remaining 33,000 East Timorese refugees and a stronger commitment to developing better ties with Indonesia, especially the East Nusa Tenggara province (NTT).

Rupiah Rates Nov.1

Rupiah Rates Nov.1 Banknote rates TT rates Selling Buying Selling Buying Rp Rp Rp Rp Australian dollar 1 5,403.90 4,844.04 5,151.71 5,096.01 Brunei dollar 1 5,502.88 4,934.42 5,246.07 5,191.09 Canadian dollar 1 6,239.90 5,594.87 5,948.69 5,885.90 Swiss franc 1 6,585.43 5,906.48 6,278.09 6,213.71 Danish krone 1 1,295.86 1,162.14 1,235.38 1,222.59 Euro 1 9,632.67 8,638.10 9,183.11 9,087.43 Poundsterling 1 15,227.24 13,657.57 14,516.59 14,367.99 Hong Kong dollar 1 1,247.28 1,119.02 1,189.07...

Australian envoy summoned over antiterrorism raids

Australian envoy summoned over antiterrorism raids Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government summoned an Australian embassy official on Friday to express its concerns over the on-going raids against Indonesian citizens in that country.

City transportation is a basic human right

City transportation is a basic human right Traffic and ground transportation have become major headaches for residents of Jakarta. The city administration has failed to deal with the chaotic traffic that clogs the capital's streets, and an integrated transportation system offering safe and fast mass rapid transit remains but a dream. The Jakarta Post's Soeryo Winoto discussed the issue with Jakarta-based urban transportation expert Djamester Simarmata.

U.S. business leaders urge tough anti-corruption pact for ASEAN

U.S. business leaders urge tough anti-corruption pact for ASEAN Agence France-Presse, Singapore U.S. businesses on Friday urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to forge a pact to fight corruption, which is seen holding back investments in the region. The American Chambers of Commerce in Southeast Asia made the call in a statement released ahead of the annual ASEAN leaders' summit in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh which opens on Sunday.

Sutiyoso to replace transportation boss

Sutiyoso to replace transportation boss The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A rumor circulating among city councillors on Friday has it that City Governor Sutiyoso is planning to replace the head of the Jakarta Transportation Agency Rustam Effendy for diverting a Rp 54 billion fund for a Busway project to other projects.

Kuwait, UAE give $50m to RI

Kuwait, UAE give $50m to RI PALU, Central Sulawesi: Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have given Indonesia a total of US$50 million in aid to develop resettlement areas for victims of ethnic and religious violence in several parts of the country, a minister said on Friday. Minister of Manpower and Transmigration Jacob Nuwa Wea said the assistance would be used to help finance the resettlement of those victims.

Shopping center boom continues

Shopping center boom continues The Jakarta Post, Jakarta At least seven new shopping centers plan to start operating in the last quarter of the year throughout Greater Jakarta, adding some 140,000 square meters of retail space in the area, a property consultant said.

No longer cool in Bukit Sentul

No longer cool in Bukit Sentul From Media Indonesia With regard to a special feature on the Bukit Sentul residential area (Media Indonesia, Sept. 30, 2002), we, too, would like to address our complaints to the developer. Our relative had a disappointing experience with the developer when he bought a house at Bukit Sentul because: * He could make the payment of the house in Jakarta but had to settle all the necessary papers/documents in Sentul.

Legislators reject Papuan police chief

Legislators reject Papuan police chief The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The appointment of the new Papua Police chief has met with opposition from Governor Jaap Salosa and local lawmakers, who say the selection process violates the special autonomy law that applies to the province. Yan L.

Caning and GAM

Caning and GAM Reading the article titled Caning comes into effect in Aceh on 1st day of Ramadhan (The Jakarta Post, Oct. 28), I wonder whether former president Abdurrahman Wahid was fully aware of all the possible consequences when in December 2000 he offered Aceh the implementation of sharia, or Islamic law in order to reduce demands for independence.

'Govt does nothing to tackle unemployment'

'Govt does nothing to tackle unemployment' Muhammad Nafik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Labor activists, analysts and businesspeople lashed out at the government on Thursday for its inaction and lack of seriousness in solving the country's unemployment problems that have adversely affected more than 38 million people of working age.

Police complete probe at blast site but no arrests are made

Police complete probe at blast site but no arrests are made The Jakarta Post Kuta/Jakarta A multinational team investigating the site of the Bali terrorist attacks concluded its probe on Friday, but members of the team are still struggling to find the perpetrators of the blast that killed 190 and injured over 300 others. A brief memorial service attended by several foreign diplomats, including British and U.S.

House divided over antiterrorism rules

House divided over antiterrorism rules Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri will likely face a tough challenge in securing support to go on with her war against terrorism as influential factions in the House of Representatives (DPR) are divided over the antiterrorism regulations and the bill.

Trans-Sumatra highway in poor condition

Trans-Sumatra highway in poor condition PALEMBANG, South Sumatra: Damage to a section of the east Trans-Sumatra highway in South Sumatra has been neglected due to a lack of funds, Governor Rosihan Arsyad said on Friday. He said that as a consequence, the west Trans-Sumatra highway would likely be heavily congested at Idul Fitri and Christmas. "The Rp 15 billion (US$1.6 million) budget was not enough for repair work this year.

The 7 percent deal

The 7 percent deal Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso has officially approved the 7 percent increase in the provincial minimum wage which will take effect next year. Probably no one can say exactly whether the decision is good or bad news for both employers and workers. The increase is in fact 18 percent lower than what the labor unions had demanded. The figure is also lower than the inflation rate which is estimated to reach almost 10 percent this year.

1. LITE: 28 PT, 1 COLS, 3 X 11

1. LITE: 28 PT, 1 COLS, 3 X 11 Tangerang residents live in darkness or Residents lament lack of street lighting 2. GRAVE: 50 pt, 4 cols, 2 x 26 Graveyard businesses thrives as people pay annual visit 3. MEDIA: 36 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 26 Community rags find their niche in housing complexes 4. BUS: 28 pt, 3 cols, 1 x 39 Sutiyoso to replace transportation boss 5. SPEAKUP: 28 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 39 'It's better to take what you're given'

City transportation is part of human rights

City transportation is part of human rights -------------------------------------------------------------- Traffic and ground transportation have become major headaches for residents of Jakarta. The city administration has failed to deal with the chaotic traffic that clogs the capital's streets, and an integrated transportation system offering safe and fast mass rapid transit remains but a dream.

Warders questioned over rebel escape

Warders questioned over rebel escape JAYAPURA, Papua: The Papua provincial police are questioning nine Abepura Prison warders following the escape of Benny Wenda, a defendant in the attack on a local police station two years ago. Jayapura Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Totok Kasmiarto said the nine warders were quizzed as witnesses in connection with the jailbreak that took place on Sunday.

Most people buy glasses for fashion purposes

Most people buy glasses for fashion purposes Sudibyo M. Wiradji Contributor Jakarta Even though glasses are not a basic necessity like food or clothes, optic retail stores in the country see a stable market from year to year because there are always customers racing out to buy new eyewear for fashion purposes. Like other fashion accessories, the style of prescription glasses and sunglasses changes from time to time.

Award for West Jakarta Mayor?

Award for West Jakarta Mayor? From Kompas In various places of the city, we have recently seen many banners congratulating the West Jakarta Mayor on his achievements. We, as the residents of West Jakarta, are now perplexed by what achievements the Mayor has made so far for the benefits of the residents.

Indonesian faces death in Thailand

Indonesian faces death in Thailand BANGKOK: An Indonesian man and two Singaporeans face the death sentence in Thailand after being charged over the kingdom's largest seizure yet of the party drug ecstasy, officials said on Friday. The Office of the Narcotics Control Board said it worked with British and Swiss police to arrest the drug-trafficking gang on Thursday and seize a haul of 62,363 ecstasy tablets.

1. Ali -- Overreaction hands

1. Ali -- Overreaction hands victory to terrorists 2. ASEAN -- ASEAN-China summit in Cambodia to chart closer relations

ASEAN to seek common platform in fighting terrorism

ASEAN to seek common platform in fighting terrorism Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Member countries of the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) will likely agree to join forces to fight terrorism in the region, but are differing on how to do so.

RI must cut off foreign dependence in order to survive

RI must cut off foreign dependence in order to survive Lela E. Madjiah, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Since 1998, nothing seems to have worked to restore national unity and solidarity, not even the tragic Oct. 12 Bali bombings that claimed so many lives and shamed Indonesia into being included on the list of countries foreigners must avoid. Indeed, national unity and solidarity seem to have become a remote concept ever since the nation embarked on the reform movement in 1998.

CGI backs stimulus package for 2003 economy

CGI backs stimulus package for 2003 economy Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia's main creditor countries under the Consultative Group on Indonesia (CGI) said they would support the country with additional loans for a stimulus package next year, ensuring the economy a much-needed reprieve against the impact of the Oct. 12 terrorist strike.

Sutiyoso casts doubt on Kancil

Sutiyoso casts doubt on Kancil JAKARTA: City Governor Sutiyoso has cast doubt on the ability of the manufacturer of the four-wheeled Kancil to produce a small vehicle to replace the current three-wheeled Bajaj. "The Bajaj is no longer feasible for the city. But I still doubt the Kancil producer's ability," Sutiyoso stated at City Hall on Thursday.

Indonesians feel targeted by Aussie police

Indonesians feel targeted by Aussie police Michael Perry, Reuters, Sydney Australia's Indonesian migrants are scared and bewildered, their sense of security shattered this week when security forces wielding sledgehammers raided several homes in the hunt for Islamic militants.

Alatas, 70 and still going strong

Alatas, 70 and still going strong Kornelius Purba, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta When former foreign minister Ali Alatas celebrates his 70th birthday on Monday, it will be a good moment to reflect on his achievements and failures as a diplomat for about 45 years up until 1999. There is a long list of his successes as a foreign minister for more than 11 years from 1988, including his leading role in ending the prolonged political crisis in Cambodia.

AP

AP FRIENDLY VISIT: East Timor President Jose Alexandre Xanana Gusmao (right) gestures as he talks with East Nusa Tenggara Governor Piet A. Tallo. Xanana, who arrived with his entourage in Kupang on Friday, is visiting the province for a four-day visit to give moral support and encourage 33,000 East Timorese refugees to return to their homeland.

Golkar unable to dismiss leader: Official

Golkar unable to dismiss leader: Official MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: The chairman of a Golkar affiliate, Irsyad Sudiro, said on Friday that dissenting Golkar leader Marwah Daud Ibrahim could not be recalled from the House of Representatives (DPR). Irsyad said that Golkar did not have a procedure to recall her, therefore her post at the DPR would be safe although she had asked the DPR to suspend Golkar party chairman Akbar Tandjung as the House speaker.

Sept. export up 4 percent in first growth since June

Sept. export up 4 percent in first growth since June The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Exports in September reversed a two-month straight fall, with sales rising 4.21 percent to US$5.10 billion, indicating together with a 2.54 percent surge in imports to $2.89 billion, that export markets may be heading for improvement. September export figures mark a turn from falling sales since June.

What's wrong with this nation?

What's wrong with this nation? From Media Indonesia In the aftermath of the Bali bomb blast, foreign victims were prioritized over local victims in terms of treatment. It is sad to realize that this treatment -- which suggests that foreigners are racially superior -- has been practiced by Indonesians. So, what has gone wrong with this nation? The bomb tragedy in Bali must make all Indonesians reflect upon themselves and seize this momentum to arouse their fighting spirit.

Akbar confident of his leadership

Akbar confident of his leadership JAKARTA: House of Representatives Speaker Akbar Tandjung said on Friday that a petition over his suspension submitted by more than 100 legislators would not proceed for further discussion after the House's Steering Committee (Bamus) failed to make any decision about his fate on Thursday. The committee handed over the case to the House's leaders.

Gutama Soegijo surprises in latest show

Gutama Soegijo surprises in latest show Bintang Prakarsa, Contributor, Jakarta, ritornello@hotmail.com Meeting Paul Gutama Soegijo always brings surprises. Last Thursday, Oct. 30, at Bentara Budaya, Jakarta, he gave a solo gamelan (traditional, ethnic Javanese music) performance at the opening of a sculpture exhibition Jejak Perjalanan (Traces of a journey) by his older brother, Gregorius Sidharta Soegijo, on the occasion of the latter's 70th birthday.

Bali bombs made of TNT, RDX: Investigators

Bali bombs made of TNT, RDX: Investigators The Jakarta Post, Bali The multinational investigative team concluded on Friday that the explosives that rocked Bali on Oct. 12, including the one detonated near the U.S. Consulate were TNT, RDX, and other materials, including chloride (CLO3).

Lindskog wins Pancasila Cup by one shot at 16 under

Lindskog wins Pancasila Cup by one shot at 16 under The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A birdie putt from some two meters from the cup on the final 18th for a 66 (33 33) and four-day total of 16-under 272 (68 71 67 66) was enough for Stephen A. Lindskog to grab the title and top cash prize of Rp 27,835,000 at the Pemuda Pancasila Cup IV at Matoa Nasional golf club in Ciganjur, South Jakarta, on Friday.

Govt may extend Idul Fitri, Christmas holidays

Govt may extend Idul Fitri, Christmas holidays The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A limited ministerial meeting on people's welfare affairs agreed on Friday to propose an extension of Idul Fitri and Christmas holidays to up to four days and three days respectively. Currently people enjoy two days off at Idul Fitri and one day at Christmas.

Graveyard business thrives as people pay annual visit

Graveyard business thrives as people pay annual visit Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Graveyards in the city have taken on a festive atmosphere over the past few days, with temporary stalls erected at cemetery entrance gates, offering flowers and fragrant water. Inside the graveyards, dozens of men armed with broomsticks greet the increasing number of visitors, offering to tidy up the graves. Some men and women are also available to recite prayers for the deceased on request.

Millions in RP pay respects to dead amid threats

Millions in RP pay respects to dead amid threats Jason Gutierrez, Agence France-Presse, Manila Philippine authorities were on full alert on Friday to thwart possible terrorist attacks as millions of Filipinos trooped to cemeteries to pay their respects for All Saints Day. Military K-9 units and police ordnance experts screened baggage at bus terminals and police confiscated sharp and pointed objects that could be used as weapons at all cemeteries, officials said.

SE Asia fights against tourism slump

SE Asia fights against tourism slump Eileen Ng, Agence France-Presse, Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asia's tourism industry, a pillar of regional economies, is undergoing its worst crisis in years following the bloody terrorist attack on its most famous beach paradise Bali. The Oct. 12 blast on Indonesia's "Island of the Gods," which killed more than 190 people, dealt a blow to the multi-billion- dollar tourism sector just as it was rebounding from the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks in the U.S.

Governor warns of need to manage conflict

Governor warns of need to manage conflict Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan North Sumatra Governor T. Rizal Nurdin warned locals and authorities of potential conflicts that could erupt if certain problems were not handled cautiously.

Don't miss flicks at JIFFest

Don't miss flicks at JIFFest For a movie buff, an event like the Jakarta International Film Festival (JIFFest) is like a beautiful oasis in the middle of the arid wasteland of Hollywood blockbusters. But with so many films at the festival it can be confusing choosing what you want to see. To help you, here are two excellent films showing at JIFFest that most people probably have never heard of. City of God The movie opens with a chicken trying to escape his fate in the frying pan.

Foreign bomb experts may role-play in Bali blast: BIN

Foreign bomb experts may role-play in Bali blast: BIN Muhammad Nafik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The State Intelligence Agency (BIN) said on Friday it believed that the devastating Bali bombings, which killed nearly 200 people, involved highly-skilled foreign experts. "We are sure that foreign elements along with Indonesian experts or perpetrators were involved," BIN spokesman Muchyar Yara told The Jakarta Post. "As we know Indonesia has no such bomb experts with such extraordinary expertise.

Ba'asyir ready for trial: Lawyer

Ba'asyir ready for trial: Lawyer JAKARTA: Detained Indonesian terror suspect Abu Bakar Ba'asyir is ready to stand trial but refuses to be questioned by police, one of his lawyers said Friday. Ba'asyir insists he has no connection to terrorism but if police have enough evidence of his wrongdoing he would be prepared to go to court immediately, said Ahmad Michdan. "What do they have to wait for? Just submit the files to the prosecutors' office," Michdan told AFP.

Residents demand bright Ramadhan

Residents demand bright Ramadhan BENGKULU, Bengkulu: The provincial legislature urged state electricity company PLN to minimize power blackouts during the Ramadhan fasting month, which begins next week. "We ask PLN to curb electricity blackouts in order to enable Muslims perform their religious duties during the fasting month," chairman of Commission D overseeing infrastructure Azkan Effendi Salam said on Friday.

Flood verdict late, upsets victims

Flood verdict late, upsets victims JAKARTA: Flood victims who filed a class action suit against the President, Jakarta governor and West Java governor were disappointed on Thursday as the judges postponed the verdict because they had to attend a law course in Central Java. Presiding Judge Kornel Sianturi of the Central Jakarta District Court said that the trial was adjourned for two weeks. About one hundred flood victims, who packed the courtroom, booed the postponement.

1. Aceh: 8 x 4 lines

1. Aceh: 8 x 4 lines Aceh governor seeks talks with Hasan Tiro 2. Xanana: 20 x 2 lines President Xanana starts four-day visit to W. Timor 3. Sumut: 24 x 2 lines North Sumatra governor warns of need to manage conflict 4. Papua: 16 x 2 lines Legislators reject Papuan police chief

Britain to grant $300,000 to Bali

Britain to grant $300,000 to Bali JAKARTA: The British government said on Friday that it would extend US$300,000 in grants to Indonesia to help Bali recover from the Oct. 12 bomb attacks. British Ambassador Richard Gozney said that the funds, taken from its International Development Department, would be allocated to help the socially disadvantaged in Bali.

Team concludes probe, but no arrests are made

Team concludes probe, but no arrests are made The Jakarta Post, Kuta/Jakarta A multinational team investigating the site of the Bali terrorist attacks concluded its probe on Friday, but members of the team are still struggling to find the perpetrators of the blast that killed 190 and injured over 300 others. A brief memorial service attended by several foreign diplomats, including British and U.S.

Tangerang residents live in darkness

Tangerang residents live in darkness Multa Fidrus, The Jakarta Post, Tangerang Many residents in Tangerang regency are complaining about the lack of street illumination, which leaves a lot of streets in the dark at night and prone to crime. "We have to pay, for street illumination, as much as 3 percent of our monthly electricity bill, but the streets are still dark. Where does all the money go?" Samsudin, 45, a resident of Saga Balaraja village told The Jakarta Post on Friday.

New health law to address new technology, social change

New health law to address new technology, social change Debbie A. Lubis, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government and the House of Representatives, along with the Coalition for a Healthy Indonesia are drafting a health bill which will serve as a grand regulation that accommodates social, political, scientific and technological changes. Minister of Health Achmad Sujudi said that the bill would be designed to replace the current Law No.

Islamic colleges to update curriculum

Islamic colleges to update curriculum JAKARTA: Rectors of state Islamic universities, institutes and other higher institutions will meet here this weekend to discuss the possible revision of their curriculum to be in line with current and future science development. "During this meeting, we will talk about a curriculum based on competence and market demands," said Suwito, the vice rector on academic affairs at state Islamic university Syarif Hidayatullah.

Stock prices at The Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Nov.1,2002

Stock prices at The Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Nov.1,2002 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Shares Close Change Trading Volume --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Abdi Bangsa Tbk 270 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 625 0 0 Adindo Foresta 50 0 0 AGIS Tbk 70 0 400,000 Akbar Indo Makmur 220 0 0 Alakasa Industrindo 95 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 800 25 181,500 Alter Abadi Tbk 10 0 0 Alumindo Light 225 0 0 Andhi Chandra...

Overreaction hands victory to terrorists

Overreaction hands victory to terrorists M. Ali, MBA Student, Nottingham University, United Kingdom Nobody can for a moment underestimate the pain and horrific damage caused by the bomb attacks in Bali. The loss of life and the damage to people and property was appalling, while for Indonesia the damage has spread to infect the world's perception of us. Any semblance of recovery is going to take a long time to achieve.

Legal umbrella

Legal umbrella The annihilation of terrorism requires clear legislation or a legal umbrella so that law-enforcing agencies can perform their duties. In the absence of a legal umbrella, these agencies cannot perform to their maximum. Facts show that law enforcers fail to arrest those suspected of committing crimes such as perpetrating terror, stealing and so forth for fear of being accused of violating human rights, as there is no material evidence proving the guilt of these people.

Most expatriates staying put despite Bali bombing

Most expatriates staying put despite Bali bombing A'an Suryana The Jakarta Post Jakarta Three weeks after the deadly Bali bombing, the number of expatriates working in Indonesia was only down slightly, a senior official at the Ministry of Manpower said Friday.

Building solid team is indeed not easy

Building solid team is indeed not easy A.B. Susanto, The Jakarta Consulting Group, Jakarta Whatever his assignment and wherever he is assigned, a leader has the duty of developing a team. However, developing a solid team is indeed not easy as it involves many factors, some of which can hamper the forming of a solid team.

Pacific area military chiefs meet to discuss security

Pacific area military chiefs meet to discuss security Reuters, Singapore The threat of regional terror is expected to be high on the agenda of a Singapore gathering of military chiefs from around Asia that also includes the head of the U.S. Pacific Command, Admiral Thomas Fargo.

The Pnom Penh summit

The Pnom Penh summit It will be a very encouraging moment for the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) when Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen hosts the ASEAN summit on Monday in Pnom Penh. One day he will later lead the meeting of the 10 regional leaders with the leaders of China, Japan, South Korea, India and South Africa.

E. Java police seek bomb suspect

E. Java police seek bomb suspect SURABAYA: New East Java Police chief Brig. Gen. Heru Susanto set on Friday the search for a suspected perpetrator of the Bali bombing as his number one priority. Heru said, after a transfer of duty from predecessor Insp. Gen. Sutanto at the provincial police headquarters here, the police had short-listed target areas of the operation. "We are focusing on and have sifted through several areas based on our estimate on the suspect's whereabouts," Heru said.

S'pore defends self against bombs

S'pore defends self against bombs SINGAPORE: Singapore said on Friday it has further tightened already strict security measures to defend itself against deadly bomb attacks, such as the ones that rocked the nearby Indonesian resort island of Bali last month.

The APEC summit

The APEC summit The APEC summit in Los Cabos, Mexico has just finished with no significant commitment among the member countries. As expected, the summit was dominated by terrorist-related issues; the loudest voice being President George W. Bush. Talks on business, which is the core issue in the annual summit sank amid terrorism issues. No wonder there have been no major reports on the result of the summit.

UN meeting bogged down over emission cuts

UN meeting bogged down over emission cuts Stevie Emilia, The Jakarta Post, New Delhi The climate conference's Delhi Declaration has included a reference to the Kyoto Protocol on climate change and leans on the concerns of developing and least developed countries while accommodating the interests of developed countries. The first draft of the declaration, prepared by the conference's president, T.R.