Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2002

88 articles found

KONI removes another 19 from training camp

KONI removes another 19 from training camp Musthofid The Jakarta Post Jakarta Another 19 athletes have been declared ineligible for the 2002 Asian Games and have been removed from the National Training Center, training director Imron Z.S. said here on Friday. The exits' list, copies of which were made available to the media at the headquarters of the National Sports Council (KONI), shows that the 19 athletes came from 11 sporting disciplines.

Powel urges RI to redouble reform efforts

Powel urges RI to redouble reform efforts Dadan Wijaksana, Jakarta Post, Jakarta Joining calls for a better business climate, visiting U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell urged the government to accelerate its efforts to clean up the corruption-prone courts and legal system so as to help restore foreign investor confidence.

* Headlines: Tommy will lose all privileges 2

* Headlines: Tommy will lose all privileges 2 * National: Displaced persons report denied by official 4 * Archipelago: Surabaya mayor's dismissal investigated 5 * Opinion: Megawati seen as failed reformer7 * City: Courts acquits Bank Modern boss of corruption 8 * Sports: Aussie triple as rain relents at Games 9 * World: India sets date for state vote in Kashmir 12 * Business: U.S. economic data rattles Asia stocks 14 * Features: Teenagers pave their way to success 20

Rikza Abdullah

Rikza Abdullah Contributor Jakarta Old players remain dominant despite so many new comers The success of the locally assembled multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) in the domestic market has encouraged distributors to import similar types of cars but with a higher quality and more alluring designs. But old players such as Kijang, Panther and Kuda vans continue to dominate the market despite there being so many choices available for car lovers.

Offer promising investment opportunities

Offer promising investment opportunities Batam is strategically located within an international shipping route between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It lies only 20 kilometers southeast of Singapore which has one of the busiest seaports in the world. A ferry ride to Singapore takes only 40 minutes. The area of Batam Island is 415 sq kms.

The table of rupiah rates for Thursday that was published on

The table of rupiah rates for Thursday that was published on Friday contained many mistakes. We apologize for the inconvenience caused. Below are the correct rupiah rates for Thursday. Editor

Indramayu exports its best commodity: 'Mangoes'

Indramayu exports its best commodity: 'Mangoes' Moch. N. Kurniawan and Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Indramayu, West Java Indramayu regency is famous for its delicious mangga (mangoes), but the word is also a euphemism for prostitute, which the regency is also well-known for. Ask any sex worker in Jakarta's red light district of Mangga Besar or Batam island in Riau where they come from, and the likely response will be Indramayu, the northern part of Central Java.

JAKARTA: Indonesia expects to announce the winning bid for a

JAKARTA: Indonesia expects to announce the winning bid for a majority stake in PT Bank Niaga in the fourth week of October, the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency said Friday. Investors interested in buying the 51 percent stake in the nationalized bank must register with IBRA next week, and submit their final binding bind by Sept. 12, IBRA said in an announcement published in local newspapers. IBRA will then decide on the winner in the fourth week of October.

Superstore Giant opens in Serpong

Superstore Giant opens in Serpong JAKARTA: PT Hero Supermarket opened on Friday its first Rp 30 billion superstore in Serpong. Ipung Kurnia, president of the company, said the Superstore Giant, located in Vila Melati Mas housing estate, is entirely owned by PT Hero, even though it is originally from Malaysia. It employs 250 people, most of whom are from nearby areas.

I. Christianto

I. Christianto Contributor Jakarta More utilitarian, tastier models hit the street In addition to the wide range of luxury imported and locally assembled sedans and sport utility vehicles (SUV), the automotive industry in Indonesia has been enlivened with new models of vans, or multipurpose vehicles (MPVs). Carmakers are competing to create stronger, lighter MPVs that are less expensive to buy, and cheaper to operate.

Withe tips new generation for Tiger Cup glory

Withe tips new generation for Tiger Cup glory Agence France-Presse Singapore Thailand coach Peter Withe plans to blood new talent in his campaign to retain the Tiger Cup tournament of Southeast Asian countries. "Yes, I'm confident. I'll probably be using a few up-and- coming players who'll be featuring in the Asian Games team (in October), and as long as they can blend with the older players, we can retain the title," the Englishman said in a press release Friday.

Annual Session or MPR fair?

Annual Session or MPR fair? JAKARTA: Numerous booths temporarily set up in the lobby of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) building have turned the legislative complex into something resembling a fairground. The noise from transactions carried out at the booths muffles the sounds coming from the plenary hall, where MPR members take turns in making themselves heard.

Govt, Muslims must combat terrorist stigma

Govt, Muslims must combat terrorist stigma Debbie A. Lubis, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Muslim scholars have suggested that the government and Muslim organizations take concrete action to counter the "terrorist hotbed" stigma attached to Indonesia.

Asian currencies mixed late, market awaits fresh U.S. data

Asian currencies mixed late, market awaits fresh U.S. data Dow Jones, Singapore Asian currencies were mixed against the dollar in a lackluster trading session Friday. The South Korean won, New Taiwan dollar and Philippine peso weakened, while the Singapore dollar, Thai baht and Indonesian rupiah strengthened. Continuing uncertainty about what slower U.S. growth may mean for the global economy kept market players from pushing currencies strongly in either direction, analysts said.

JP/6/SIMON

JP/6/SIMON Teachers should be encouraged to be learners too Simon Marcus Gower Principal, Harapan Bangsa High School, Kotamodern Tangerang, Banten As the government moves towards the adoption of a new schools curriculum -- planned for 2004 -- the role of teacher's will change. Demands will be made of teachers that require that they work much more closely with their students and so have to, in turn, be much more open to students' inquisitiveness.

The flesh trade goes on and on...

The flesh trade goes on and on... Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Her earrings flashed, illuminated by the light of the room. She threw back her head and laughed. "I'm still a virgin you know," the 13-year-old coyly said. "I let them touch and kiss me but I always refuse to be taken to a motel." Meet Reny, a native of Patrol village, Sukra district in Indramayu, West Java.

Int'l Physics Olympiad opens road to success

Int'l Physics Olympiad opens road to success Rita A. Widiadana, The Jakarta Post, Nusa Dua, Bali It was a rare sight to see more than 300 high school students from 69 countries jamming the spacious Bali International Convention Center (BICC) in Nusa Dua resort area. The students, with their youthful enthusiasm, were not there for a concert or to watch an exhibition. They were taking part in the 33rd International Physics Olympiad held from July 22 through July 29.

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Despite mounting obstacles, caused by domestic and international factors, and the weak performance in the first semester of the year, the government is still optimistic to reach its privatization target this year. "We are still optimistic. But, we have to work really hard to accomplish the target," Mahmudin Yasin, Deputy State Minister for State Enterprises, told The Jakarta Post.

Without Megawati

Without Megawati PDI P is nothing From Warta Kota No one can deny that Ibu Megawati Soekarnoputri has made the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) the biggest party in the country and helped it to win the 1999 General Election. It is very ironic that a decision made by the chairwoman, which should have been adopted as a decision of the party, then becomes a matter of controversy among its members.

Megawati isn't perfect

Megawati isn't perfect I read with interest your article on Megawati in the July 24 edition of The Jakarta Post. When Megawati became president a year ago, people started to criticize her not only for her total lack of political experience but also for being a woman who was too weak and dumb to have an opinion. In short, the only thing it was said she could claim was that she is the daughter of the late founding president, Sukarno.

'Assembly members make me sick'

'Assembly members make me sick' Despite the ongoing Annual Session, people remain skeptical that the 700 members of the People's Consultative Assembly will actually be able to come up with solutions to cope with the country's political and economic crisis. They shared their views with The Jakarta Post. Rino, 34, has been working as a traditional medicated oil vendor in the city for 12 years.

JAKARTA: Indonesia expects to announce the winning bid for a

JAKARTA: Indonesia expects to announce the winning bid for a majority stake in PT Bank Niaga in the fourth week of October, the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency said Friday. Investors interested in buying the 51 percent stake in the nationalized bank must register with IBRA next week, and submit their final binding bind by Sept. 12, IBRA said in an announcement published in local newspapers. IBRA will then decide on the winner in the fourth week of October.

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive JP/ /BUMN Investors confidence hampers privatization drive A'an Suryana The Jakarta Post Jakarta Despite mounting obstacles, caused by domestic and international factors, and the weak performance in the first semester of the year, the government is still optimistic to reach its privatization target this year. "We are still optimistic.

Tradition and pride cut through the waves in Sulawesi

Tradition and pride cut through the waves in Sulawesi Fabio Scarpello Contributor Jakarta The one-week annual Sulawesi Sandeq boat race will start on Saturday from Majene in South Sulawesi heading for the province's capital of Makassar some 200 nautical miles away, organizers said on Friday. During race week, the elements and the fishermen's passion combine to provide an event that is not to be missed. But it is not simply about sailing.

No more TV, cell phone or business for Tommy

No more TV, cell phone or business for Tommy Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Hutomo "Tommy" Mandala Putra was set to lose his privileges in jail midnight Friday after he failed to lodge an appeal against his 15-year jail sentence for conspiracy to commit murder. Minister of Justice and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra said Tommy's status would change from being a detainee to a convicted criminal and he would lose all the privileges he had enjoyed so far.

Powell told to trust in RI's moderate Muslims

Powell told to trust in RI's moderate Muslims Berni K. Moestafa and Muhammad Nafik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Prominent Muslim figures here told U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell that supporting Indonesia's majority of moderate Muslims was the best way to counter terrorism, instead of using military means.

Suspicious bedfellows

Suspicious bedfellows It is perfectly legitimate for members of the House of Representatives, including Taufik Kiemas of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) faction, to visit factories. It was, therefore, technically legal for Kiemas and a number of other House members to visit Indonesia's largest petrochemical plant, PT Chandra Asri Petrochemical Center some time ago.

Teenagers pave their way to success

Teenagers pave their way to success Rita A. Widiadana, The Jakarta Post, Sanur, Bali Evelyn Mintarno is just like any other MTV generation of teenagers. She adores the music of teen pop idol Britney Spears and hums hit songs by boybands. But, she also listens to the classical music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig Van Beethoven and is an accomplished pianist herself. In her spare time, she can be seen strolling Jakarta's crowded malls or watching her favorite movies at the local cineplex.

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive JP/ /BUMN Investors confidence hampers privatization drive A'an Suryana The Jakarta Post Jakarta Despite mounting obstacles, caused by domestic and international factors, and the weak performance in the first semester of the year, the government is still optimistic to reach its privatization target this year. "We are still optimistic.

U.S. confident over Indonesia's war on terrorism

U.S. confident over Indonesia's war on terrorism Tiarma Siboro and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Visiting U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell expressed confidence in Indonesia's determination to fight terrorism with a pledge of US$50 million in aid to train security forces in counterterrorism.

Illegal workers returning from Malaysia treated like refugees here

Illegal workers returning from Malaysia treated like refugees here Moch. N. Kurniawan and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Illegal Indonesian workers returning from Malaysia and stranded in border areas like Nunukan in East Kalimantan will be treated like refugees and receive 400 grams of rice and Rp 1,500 (16.6 U.S. cents) allowance per person from the government daily, a high-ranking official said.

1. BI (4x8)

1. BI (4x8) Interest rate can still go down: BI 2. KPEN (2x27) KPEN calls on MPR to help solve unemployment problem 3. Powel (1x40) Powel urges RI to redouble reform efforts

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Aug. 2, 2002:

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Aug. 2, 2002: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Shares Close Change Trading Volume ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Abdi Bangsa Tbk 270 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 925 25 1,000 Adindo Foresta 40 0 0 AGIS Tbk 100 0 25,000 Akbar Indo Makmur 365 0 0 Alakasa Industrindo 185 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 775 50 278,500 Alter Abadi Tbk 35 0 0 Alumindo Light 500 0 0 Andhi Chandra...

Jungle magically transformed into modern city

Jungle magically transformed into modern city For hundreds of years Batam has been highly regarded due to its strategic location in the Malacca Strait. One historical event can prove this, when Admiral Hang Nadim chose Batam for his defense base during the war waged by the Melayu kingdom against the Portuguese invaders between the years 1511 and 1528. However, after the end of Dutch colonization, for some time the 415 sq kilometer island was completely forgotten.

U.S. military assistance may increase risk of state terrorism

U.S. military assistance may increase risk of state terrorism Berni K. Moestafa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The United States offer of aid to Indonesia to fight terrorism may backfire and see an increased incidence of state terrorism instead, a human rights activist said on Friday. Hendardi of the Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association (PBHI) said the U.S.

Science still not a popular career field

Science still not a popular career field Nobel Prize Winner Claude N. Cohen Tannoudji was very impressed when seeing hundreds of young scientists around the world gathered at the recent Physics Olympiad in Nusa Dua, Bali, last week. The distinguished scientist openly expressed his happiness to see so many young people wanting to follow his path in the world of science.

Amendment faces stronger resistance

Amendment faces stronger resistance Kurniawan Hari and Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The threat of a deadlock in the fourth phase of constitutional amendments at the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) increased in seriousness on Friday when a number of legislators revealed that the move to thwart the amendment was backed by nearly one- third of the MPR members.

Three major factions nominate Sutiyoso, PAN and PKB do not

Three major factions nominate Sutiyoso, PAN and PKB do not Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Three major factions and one minor faction in the Jakarta City Council on Friday officially nominated incumbent Governor Sutiyoso as their main gubernatorial candidate to be elected on Sept. 11 for the 2002-2007 term.

New map helps to promote cultural heritage

New map helps to promote cultural heritage Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Touring inside Yogyakarta Palace's fortress or Jeron Beteng as it is popularly called, is now more enriching and easier than ever, thanks to the recently launched Jogja Jeron Beteng Heritage Trail. The 20-page folding pocket-sized map displays four different maps of the Jeron Beteng area and is rich with information about local heritage sites, ruins and buildings.

New names gaining popularity with the public

New names gaining popularity with the public Sudibyo M. Wiradji Contributor Jakarta Although the Toyota Kijang, Mitsubishi Kuda, Suzuki Carry and Daihatsu Zebra continue to dominate the multipurpose vehicle (MPV) market, several new models have also received a warm response from buyers. Kia's MPV series, such as the Carnival and Carens, Chevrolet's Zafira and Honda's Stream are also gaining popularity on the local market.

b]Taufik Kiemas supports constitutional amendment: President

b]Taufik Kiemas supports constitutional amendment: President Megawati Soekarnoputri's husband Taufik Kiemas said on Friday he fully supported the fourth phase of constitutional amendments. Taufik is one of more than 200 members of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) who have signed a petition to reject the fourth amendment of the 1945 Constitution.

Health services for all

Health services for all JAKARTA: Health care services have been set up in the lobby of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) building to ensure that legislators, visitors and journalists covering the Annual Session have quick access to medical treatment. There are three booths offering health care, an emergency clinic, three ambulances and a clinic set up in different locations of the compound. Each health care booth has one doctor and one paramedic on hand.

Court acquits Bank Modern president of corruption

Court acquits Bank Modern president of corruption Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Central Jakarta District Court dropped a bombshell on Friday in the legal battle against abusers of Bank Indonesia liquidity support (BLBI) funds by acquitting former president commissioner of the now-defunct Bank Modern, Samadikun Hartono, of corruption.

Singapore steps up effort to protect housemaids

Singapore steps up effort to protect housemaids Alexa Olesen, Associated Press, Singapore Singapore's government detailed new measures to prevent the abuse of household staff following the death of an Indonesian maid that a top official said sparked "revulsion" throughout the city- state. The reforms do not, however, bring maids under legislation that protects the basic rights of workers in Singapore.

Animal park to replace overcrowded Medan zoo

Animal park to replace overcrowded Medan zoo Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan, North Sumatra The Medan municipal administration has invited a Malaysian investor to build an animal park similar to the famous Taman Safari in the West Java regency of Bogor.

Where to go in Yogyakarta: Saturday, August 3, 2002

Where to go in Yogyakarta: Saturday, August 3, 2002 Exhibitions * Painting Bahasa Liris untuk Kehidupan by Indera Widjaya K., Agus Sucahyono, Katirin, and Yuli S., Bentara Budaya Yogyakarta, Jl. Suroto 2 (Tel. 0274-560404), until Aug. 8. * Painting by Sanggar Anak Cakrawala, CCF French Cultural Center, Jl. Sagan No 3 (Tel. 0274-566520), Aug. 5 - 9. * Graphic design Signs, The New Generation of Graphic Design in France involving Indonesian and French graphic designers Cemeti Art House, Jl. D.I.

Cost of MPR session

Cost of MPR session From Sinar Pagi According to reports, the Annual Session of the People's Consultative Assembly (ST MPR) costs around Rp 19 billion. The sum is obviously very big, because the money could otherwise be used to relieve the needs of a lot of poor people, or pay the school fees of their children. However, the large amount will be worth the effort if the outcome of ST MPR is really beneficial to the entire Indonesian population.

KONI removes another 19 from training camp

KONI removes another 19 from training camp Musthofid, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Another 19 athletes have been declared ineligible for the 2002 Asian Games and have been removed from the National Training Center, training director Imron Z.S. said here on Friday. The exits' list, copies of which were made available to the media at the headquarters of the National Sports Council (KONI), shows that the 19 athletes came from 11 sporting disciplines.

Rini establishes new crisis center to help businesses

Rini establishes new crisis center to help businesses Adianto P. Simamora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Ministry of Trade and Industry has set up a crisis center to help resolve the various problems faced by businesses here, a move which could help prevent existing investors from fleeing the country. It will be chaired by Minister of Trade and Industry Rini M.

Is there a future for Indonesia without the IMF?

Is there a future for Indonesia without the IMF? Juergen Kaiser Jubilee.De Dusseldorf Germany Throughout the month of June Indonesia saw a quite lively debate regarding its future relationship with the International Monetary Fund. It has been instigated by State Minister of National Development Planning Minister Kwik Kian Gie and it has ended with the cabinet decision to extend the current arrangement with the IMF for another 12 months till end 2003.

Cipondoh drugmaker to be tried

Cipondoh drugmaker to be tried The suspect in a large-scale drug making case in Cipondoh and Karawaci, Tangerang was handed over to the Tangerang Prosecutor's Office by a team of investigators from the National Police drug directorate on Friday. Sr. Comr. Ari Subowo, who led the team said that the police had completed the case files involving Ang Kim Sui, who holds an identity card issued in Fak Fak, Irian Jaya, as the suspect.

Soetandyo to lead team investigating mayor's case

Soetandyo to lead team investigating mayor's case Ainur R. Sophiaan, The Jakarta Post, Surabaya Soetandyo Wignjosoebroto, a member of the National Commission on Human Rights, has been named to lead an independent team of inquiry into the controversial dismissal of Surabaya Mayor Bambang Dwi Hartono by local councillors.

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Aug. 2, 2002:

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Aug. 2, 2002: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Shares Close Change Trading Volume ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Abdi Bangsa Tbk 270 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 925 25 1,000 Adindo Foresta 40 0 0 AGIS Tbk 100 0 25,000 Akbar Indo Makmur 365 0 0 Alakasa Industrindo 185 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 775 50 278,500 Alter Abadi Tbk 35 0 0 Alumindo Light 500 0 0 Andhi Chandra...

1. CIFOR 1 x 22 Indonesia feeling the heat

1. CIFOR 1 x 22 Indonesia feeling the heat Indonesia feels the heat 2. BANGKOK 1 x 30 People now expect more of the law 3. WANG 1 x 32 Islam versus Asia's Chinese Diaspora

Displaced persons report denied by official

Displaced persons report denied by official Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A senior government official denied on Friday a report that claimed that the number of internally displaced people (IDPs) had dropped to some 380,000 last month from 1.24 million in May. He refused to provide details. However, a source close to the government said that the 380,000 IDPs were only those living in camps and that there were many living with local relatives or local people.

Interest rate can still go down: BI

Interest rate can still go down: BI The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Bank Indonesia said Friday there was still room for its bench- mark interest rate to fall in the near future on the back of easing inflationary pressure. Bank Indonesia deputy governor Miranda Goeltom said that expectation of a stronger rupiah towards the end of the year was slowing down inflation. "... Low inflation shows us there is room to further lower the interest rate," Antara quoted Miranda as saying.

;JP;aps

;JP;aps ANPAf..r.. Interbank-Foreign-Exchange JP/13/DOLLAR U.S Dollar Rates Aug 2 Latest %Chg Yen 118.83-91 -0.40 Euro* 0.9891-96 +0.50 Sterling* 1.5693-00 +0.50 Swiss franc 1.4650-55 -0.46 Canadian dollar 1.5861-71 -0.32 Australian dollar* 0.5411-16 +0.45 New Zealand dollar* 0.4660-65 +0.89 Deutsche mark 2.2150-75 0.00 Czech koruna 30.814-62 +0.02 Hungary forint 248.64-99 -0.08 Danish krone 7.5040-90 -0.53 Norwegian krone 7.5885-36 -0.48 Polish zloty 4.193-03 +0.01 Russian ruble 31.572-82...

Supreme Court has 16,000 pending appeals due to lack of justices

Supreme Court has 16,000 pending appeals due to lack of justices Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Chief Justice Bagir Manan revealed on Thursday there are nearly 16,000 cases left unsolved in his office, particularly due to the absence of a law that would curb requests for a legal review. The number was only a slight drop from last year's 16,233 unsolved cases.

Golkar, FUG say govt slow, weak

Golkar, FUG say govt slow, weak Ahmad Junaidi and Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Golkar Party faction and the Interest Groups faction (FUG) at the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) criticized on Friday the government under President Megawati Soekarnoputri as weak and slow in handling several problems in the country.

Pengganti tanggal 1

Pengganti tanggal 1 Rupiah Rates Aug 1 JP/13/Conver Rupiah Rates Aug 1 Banknote rates TT rates Selling Buying Selling Buying Rp Rp Rp Rp Australian dollar 1 5,180.82 4,634.84 4,934.35 4,881.08 Brunei dollar 1 5,450.82 4,878.10 5,191.50 5,137.28 Canadian dollar 1 6,045.13 5,409.64 5,757.54 5,697.05 Swiss franc 1 6,453.01 5,775.17 6,146.01 6,082.00 Danish krone 1 1,260.99 1,128.40 1,201.00 1,188.35 Euro 1 9,366.03 8,384.16 8,920.44 8,829.60 Poundsterling 1 14,962.88 13,389.81 14,251.03 14,101.21...

MPR's attention

MPR's attention to migrant workers In his speech to open the annual session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), the country's top law-making body chairman, Amien Rais, disclosed the MPR's plan to discuss economic recovery. Unfortunately, in his speech, Amien did not touch on current crucial issues, such as the repatriation of illegal Indonesian workers from Malaysia.

Prostitutes still have their own dreams

Prostitutes still have their own dreams Moch. N. Kurniawan and Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Indramayu, West Java Yani looked much happier when we saw her at the Lumba-lumba discotheque that second time. The previous night we came in with two girls, long-haired Leni and fair-skinned Ai. Yani and her friend Ratih, who work at the disco, looked furious. As Yani returned our smiles, Ratih sent mixed signals.

U.S. economic data rattles Asia stocks

U.S. economic data rattles Asia stocks Christopher Kaufman, Reuters, Singapore Asian stocks fell on Friday and the dollar was under pressure as traders digested sharp losses on Wall Street and the dreary economic reports and corporate news that triggered them. But falls were less dramatic than in U.S. markets, and some Japanese financial stocks nudged higher.

Transmigrants go on hunger strike

Transmigrants go on hunger strike Five transmigrants who fled restive Aceh spent the second successive day on hunger strike at the provincial legislative council building here on Friday. They were among hundreds of people who have been staging rallies over the past week to demand that the central government relocate 11,000 transmigrants in Aceh from refugee camps in North Sumatra and provide Rp 10 million in financial assistance for each family.

Syamsul Mu'arif enjoys a free drink

Syamsul Mu'arif enjoys a free drink JAKARTA: Who would want to miss out on a free drink? Not Minister of Communications and Information Syamsul Mu'arif, who joined other MPR members in enjoying the free drinks offered by several traditional herbal medicine producers. Before entering the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) meeting hall on Friday, the minister visited the Nyonya Meneer traditional jamu (herbal medicine) booth for a glass of jamu.

Easy riders oblivious to dangers on the road

Easy riders oblivious to dangers on the road Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta If you take time out to question Jakarta motorcyclists about their driving skills, there's a fair chance you might decide never to set foot on the road again! Just ask them how many traffic accidents they have per year. "Lots. I've an accident at least once or twice a year.

Ford Escape: the latest SUV to be launched here

Ford Escape: the latest SUV to be launched here Hera Diani The Jakarta Post Jakarta After Explorer, Excursion and Expedition, Ford presents Escape, its latest Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) which is slated to become the most powerful compact SUV. Unveiled at the recent Jakarta Motor Show, it is scheduled to be launched here in October.

Is there a future for Indonesia without the IMF?

Is there a future for Indonesia without the IMF? Juergen Kaiser Jubilee.De Dusseldorf Germany Throughout the month of June Indonesia saw a quite lively debate regarding its future relationship with the IMF. It has been instigated by Planning Minister Kwik Kian Gie and it has ended with the cabinet decision to extend the current arrangement with the IMF for another 12 months till end 2003.

KPEN calls MPR to help solve unemployment problem

KPEN calls MPR to help solve unemployment problem A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The National Economic Recovery Committee (KPEN) called on lawmakers to seek ways to help resolve the country's pressing economic difficulties, particularly unemployment. "Although there are signs that certain (macroeconomic) indicators are improving, there are still many economic problems that must be addressed," KPEN chairman Sofjan Wanandi told reporters at a media conference.

Foreign sand smugglers to face RI justice

Foreign sand smugglers to face RI justice The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia will carry out further investigations into the seven cargo vessels the Navy captured last week for trying to smuggle goods into Singapore, says a Navy official.

Threat of constitutional deadlock increases

Threat of constitutional deadlock increases Kurniawan Hari and Fitri Wulandari The Jakarta Post Jakarta The threat of a deadlock in the fourth phase of constitutional amendments at the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) increased in seriousness on Friday when a number of legislators revealed that the move to thwart the amendment was backed by nearly one- third of the MPR members.

The inset pictures in Java Restaurant's ad on Page 17 of [i]The

The inset pictures in Java Restaurant's ad on Page 17 of The Jakarta Post's July 31th edition are not of Peru. The correct pictures appear in a similar ad on Page 3 of today's edition.

'Bedhaya Prabu Wibawa', a tribute to Yogyakarta king

'Bedhaya Prabu Wibawa', a tribute to Yogyakarta king Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Many people would find a traditional dance performance as classic and sacred as the royal dance Bedhaya hard to appreciate, much less understand.

Supreme Advisory Council fights for survival

Supreme Advisory Council fights for survival Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Ignoring mounting demands for the scrapping of the Supreme Advisory Council (DPA), chairman Achmad Tirtosudiro has lodged a complaint with the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) over its plan to place one of the state's highest institution under the President.

checked

checked ;JP; ANPAf..r.. ;JP;HEN; ANPAf..r.. Jobs-gallery-Accenture A little reminder about change management Judith Wirawan Accenture, Consultant, Jakarta After apparently hitting rock bottom in the aftermath of the 1997 economic crisis, the Indonesian economy seems to be bouncing back a little bit. Businesspeople are picking up the pieces and starting to build all over again, bit by bit.

JAKARTA: The Indonesian Environmental Forum (Walhi) said on

JAKARTA: The Indonesian Environmental Forum (Walhi) said on Friday that President Megawati Soekarnoputri's administration had not been serious about addressing environmental issues in the country. Walhi executive director Longgena Ginting said the government had prioritized the interests of local and international businesspeople rather than environmental preservation. "The government has issued 150 licenses to international mining companies to explore protected forests although Law No.

Experts, activists push for constitutional commission

Experts, activists push for constitutional commission Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Pressure from certain politicians to halt the amendment process has merely intensified efforts to form a constitutional commission, according to activists and constitutional law experts.

Economy wobbling

Economy wobbling Declining inflation and interest rates seemed to be the only encouraging news in the economic field that President Megawati Soekarnoputri could show off in her first annual progress report to the People's Consultative Assembly on Thursday as almost all other key indicators pointed to a bleaker outlook.

Local leaders move to foster Maluku

Local leaders move to foster Maluku Muhammad Nafik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Traditional and community leaders from warring Christian and Muslim groups are striving to play a greater role in ending the religious fighting in Maluku and helping promote peace in the strife-torn islands. They have agreed to quell all hatred, hostilities and suspicion between the two sides, which spread quickly amid the three-year conflict that resulted in the deaths of more than 6,000 people since 1999.

Public urged to give Governor Sjachriel a chance

Public urged to give Governor Sjachriel a chance The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former South Kalimantan governor M. Said said on Friday in Banjarmasin that the public should give Governor M. Sjachriel Darham a chance to improve his performance, instead of demanding that he step down.

Indonesia feels the heat

Indonesia feels the heat Grahame Applegate, Center for International, Forestry Research (CIFOR), Bogor, West Java No sooner had the ink dried on the ASEAN Regional Haze Agreement last June when meteorologists announced El Nino was already well under way. It seems Indonesia and its neighbors are in for another six months of fires and smoke costing millions of dollars in economic losses, health costs and environmental damage.

Maya gives the lowdown on kissing

Maya gives the lowdown on kissing JAKARTA: Harpist Maya Hasan's cool and calm exterior when she plays her beloved harp conceals her fiery spirit and passion. But on a talk show called Kissing: Act or lust organized by Eksotika Karmawibhangga Indonesia (EKI) dance company, she bared all. "We (Maya and hubby Richard Worotikan) have a special name for French-kissing, it's called wleh wleh," she said with her tongue darting in and out, much to the audience's delight.

Dashed hopes: Megawati seen as failed reformer

Dashed hopes: Megawati seen as failed reformer Miyuki Hokugo, Jakarta Correspondent, The Asahi Shimbun, Tokyo It's been a rough year for Megawati Soekarnoputri as Indonesia's president. While she has managed to secure aid from the international community, she has failed to show progress in the expected areas of democratization and economic reform. And her popularity has suffered as a result.

Gunasegaran scrapes to Olympic Open victory

Gunasegaran scrapes to Olympic Open victory The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Malaysian P. Gunasegaran chalked up his first win in Indonesia after being unchallenged at the Olympic Open golf tournament at the Cikarang Golf & Country Club on Friday. Gunasegaran ended the competition four-under-par 284 to take the first prize of Rp 82 million out of the total pot of Rp 450 million (US$50,000) in prize money put up by the organizers.

Islam versus Asia's Chinese diaspora

Islam versus Asia's Chinese diaspora Wang Gungwu, Director, East Asia Institute, University of Singapore, Project Syndicate When Malaysia's prime minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, recently announced that he intended to resign, Malaysians of Chinese descent joined Mahathir's Malay party loyalists in demanding that he reconsider. When Mahathir agreed to stay on, if only for another 16 months, the sighs of relief from these Chinese Malaysians were the loudest of all.

JAKARTA: In an attempt to reduce the massive backlog of

JAKARTA: In an attempt to reduce the massive backlog of appeals waiting to be heard by the Supreme Court, a legal practitioner suggested on Friday that restrictions be placed on the type of cases the could be brought before the highest court in the land.

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive

Investors confidence hampers privatization drive JP/ /BUMN Investors confidence hampers privatization drive A'an Suryana The Jakarta Post Jakarta Despite mounting obstacles, caused by domestic and international factors, and the weak performance in the first semester of the year, the government is still optimistic to reach its privatization target this year. "We are still optimistic.

Elephant killed at training center

Elephant killed at training center BENGKULU, Bengkulu: A male elephant being trained at the Seblat grooming center in Putri Hijau district, North Bengkulu regency, was killed by local people in an attempt to steal its 20-kilogram tusks. An elephant trainer, Mahyudin, said on Friday that the elephant was killed while it was tied to a tree and left grazing near the center by its trainer who was reportedly sleeping.