Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 March 2003

93 articles found

Conflicts cloud Megawati's future

Conflicts cloud Megawati's future Ardimas Sasdi, Staff Writer, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta, ardimas@thejakartapost.com A recent admission by a respected Cabinet member that the ruling Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) was the most corrupt of all political parties merely confirmed the depths of corruption here.

City enlists experts for development forum

City enlists experts for development forum Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The city administration has set up a think tank consisting of experts from various disciplines to help the administration get a handle on urban problems. The group of experts is called the Jakarta Care Forum. "These experts will be my advisers in their own fields. I want clear direction in developing Jakarta," Governor Sutiyoso said after a morning coffee with the experts.

Lippo again

Lippo again I'm really deeply concerned over media reports on Bank Lippo. There are several reasons for this concern. First, the government has been tardy with its reaction even though the Bank Lippo issue has become the talk of the town for over two months.

Finance ministry to probe Bank Lippo auditor

Finance ministry to probe Bank Lippo auditor Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Ministry of Finance launched on Friday an investigation into three appraisal firms and one auditor that had conducted an appraisal on assets and the audited financial report of Bank Lippo, for possible involvement in the alleged financial manipulation by the bank's management.

We need another

We need another 'Bung' Karno From Rakyat Merdeka Indonesia's first president Sukarno, better known as Bung (Brother) Karno, was excellent at uniting this nation by means of, among other things, identifying a common enemy. He diverted the attention of the nation to Papua and made The Netherlands the country's common enemy. Temporarily, we forgot inter-ethnic conflicts and our poverty as the people were busy training as volunteers to fight for the return of Papua to Jakarta's control.

Kabelvision service poor

Kabelvision service poor If anyone needs a compelling reason why monopolies should be abolished they need only to become Kabelvision subscribers in the Senopati area, where I have both my office and house. Both subscribe to Kabelvision and its broadband service, or lack of it. My office suffers from constant interruptions to its broadband service. The signal often goes down to the extent that we have installed a dial up modem to the internet service provider.

Bankruptcy suit against Unilever dismissed

Bankruptcy suit against Unilever dismissed The Jakarta Post Jakarta The Central Jakarta Commercial Court dismissed on Friday a bankruptcy petition against consumer goods manufacturing giant PT Unilever Indonesia, the company said in a press statement. The court ruled that PO Parma Djaja had no legal basis to file the bankruptcy suit because Unilever did not have any outstanding or maturing debts to the company, a necessary condition for filing such a petition.

Why not live in harmony?

Why not live in harmony? I really enjoy visiting QB bookshops in Jakarta. The staff there are always smiling and helpful and brighten my day after many hours in the office. Nevertheless, an incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003 which disappointed me. I was browsing in the bookshop in Plaza Senayan when I heard a senior employee criticizing his staff in a loud voice in front of customers in the shop.

b]* Headlines: Ministry to probe Bank Lippo auditor2

b]* Headlines: Ministry to probe Bank Lippo auditor2 * National: Farmers, NGOs criticize plantation bill4 * Archipelago: Indian convict faces May execution 5 * Opinion: Conflicts cloud Megawati's future6 * City:Building owners uncooperative: Fire department8 * Sports: Mickelson, Woods to 3rd round at Matchplay9 * World: Arroyo sets deadline to erase Abu Sayyaf11 * Business: RI rejects proposed oil embargo against U.S. 13 * Features:Breeder takes peacocks under his wing20

With or without IMF?

With or without IMF? Highly debatable are both the rationale used by the team of more than 30 economists to support their recommendation for abruptly ending Indonesia's reform program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the policy measures they outline for achieving annual economic growth of 6 percent to 7 percent in the post-IMF program period.

Working effectively for family business requires ongoing dialog

Working effectively for family business requires ongoing dialog Pri Notowidigdo, The Amrop Hever Group, Global Executive Search, (e-mail: jakarta@amrophever.com) Andy Dasyat (fictitious) faces the dilemma of balancing family with business needs. A seasoned corporate finance professional with 20 years experience in multinationals, he is feeling frustrated by his efforts as CFO to move his company forward.

Threats to the press

Threats to the press I would like to comment on PDI-P leader threatens press, students (The Jakarta Post, Feb. 24, 2003). Minister of manpower and transmigration, Jacob Nuwa Wea's rage about Rakyat Merdeka's often hair-raising coverage of President Megawati Soekarnoputri's leadership might be in some way understandable. But threats like "Rakyat Merdeka, I warn you ...", and "...

TNI's latest move

TNI's latest move a bid to fool the clock? Imanuddin Razak Staff Writer The Jakarta Post Jakarta iman@thejakartapost.com Army chief of staff Gen. Ryamizard Ryacudu fired a lethal shot on Feb. 20 when he addressed a media conference, suggesting that the military's security role be reinstated due to the threats of separatism and other security disturbances in the country.

Jakarta to be hit by dengue outbreak

Jakarta to be hit by dengue outbreak Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Jakartans should prepare themselves for one of the worst outbreaks of dengue fever in years as the city -- one of the regions with a high risk of dengue -- will likely experience the peak of the disease's five-year cycle this year, a health official said. "All elements of society should anticipate the possibility of the worst outbreak of this disease in years.

Indonesian military turning its back on reforms

Indonesian military turning its back on reforms Lee Kim Chew The Straits Times Asia News Network Singapore Thinking of reforms in the Indonesian military? Banish the thought -- for now at least. To the chagrin of many Indonesians, the country's once- omnipotent generals are seeking new laws to enhance a power that was whittled down after former president Soeharto's fall.

Non-Aligned Movement and Iraq crisis

Non-Aligned Movement and Iraq crisis Riza Sihbudi, Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta The 13th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from Feb. 20 to Feb. 25, became a venue where protests against the United States' plan to attack Iraq were lodged. The 114 NAM member countries have joined forces with the global movement against war. An anti-war declaration was prepared at the meeting of foreign ministers, and the issue topped the agenda.

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;JP;dan; ANPAf..r.. Rupiah-conversion-rates Rupiah Rates Feb. 28 JP/13/Conver Rupiah Rates Feb.

OPEC may suspend oil quotas if U.S.-UK forces attack Iraq

OPEC may suspend oil quotas if U.S.-UK forces attack Iraq Tanya Pang and Peg Mackey, Reuters, Singapore/Dubai/London OPEC is likely to establish a war contingency plan at its March 11 meeting that would suspend oil output quotas once hostilities start, senior officials and OPEC sources said on Friday. But the producer group that dominates world oil trade is very unlikely to lift output restrictions simply to contain prices before the meeting, they said.

Plantation bill attracts sharp criticism from farmers, NGOs

Plantation bill attracts sharp criticism from farmers, NGOs Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A controversial plantation bill has come under fire from non- governmental organizations (NGOs) and farmer associations, which say that if passed the bill would harm both the people and the environment.

Timber firm Barito to buy Enim Musi Leastari

Timber firm Barito to buy Enim Musi Leastari The Jakarta Post, Jakarta One of the country's largest timber companies, PT Barito Pacific Timber announced on Thursday that it had provided US$255.6 million in cash to buy a 60 percent stake in PT Enim Musi Lestari, which manages some 296,400 hectares of industrial plantations. Barito currently holds a 40 percent stake in the company, while the remaining 50 percent is owned by PT Tunggal Setia Pratama and 10 percent by PT Muktilestari Kencana.

Asia's billionaire club shrinks, Rachman Halim among richest

Asia's billionaire club shrinks, Rachman Halim among richest Agence France-Presse, Singapore Asia's richest individuals have been hit severely by the global economic crunch, with 14 glittering names from the region getting dropped from a U.S. business magazine's yearly global list of billionaires.

Where to go in Jakarta: Saturday, March. 1, 2003

Where to go in Jakarta: Saturday, March. 1, 2003 Exhibition * Masks, Berbagai Ekspresi dari Berbagai Budaya, jointly organized by Erasmus Huis and Rembulan Cantik Studio in Yogyakarta, at Erasmus Huis, Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said Kav. S-3, Kuningan South Jakarta, (Tel. 021-5241069), until March. 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Email: info@erasmushuis.or.id Performances * Comedy Drama, Komidi Don Yuan, by Moliere, Translation Winarsih W Arifin, Directed by Rudolf Puspa, Chaired by Hj.

Indian convict faces May execution for drug offense

Indian convict faces May execution for drug offense Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan, North Sumatra Prosecutors here said on Friday that they would execute Ayodnya Prasad Chaubey, an Indian citizen sentenced to death on drug charges in the North Sumatra capital of Medan, by May at the latest. However, on the same day, the Medan District Court began a hearing into the convict's request for judicial review of the recent presidential rejection of his clemency plea.

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, March. 3, 2003

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, March. 3, 2003 Exhibition * Masks, Berbagai Ekspresi dari Berbagai Budaya,by Erasmus Huis and Rembulan Cantik Studio in Yogyakarta, at Erasmus Huis, Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said Kav. S-3, Kuningan South Jakarta, (Tel. 021- 5241069), until March. 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Email: info@erasmushuis.or.id Performances * Traditional Comedy Drama, Sang Parasu Rama, by Wayang Orang Bharata Purwa, Directed by Aries Mukadi, at Gedung Kesenian Jakarta, Jl. Gedung Kesenian No.

Amien's sister pays back 'hot money'

Amien's sister pays back 'hot money' PALEMBANG, South Sumatra: Fatimah Rais, the elder sister of People's Consultative Assembly speaker Amien Rais, was among the 75 members of the South Sumatra provincial legislature accused of taking "hot money" amounting to Rp 100 million each. However, she and the other 12 have returned the money in installments after the legislature bowed to local people's demand to cancel the allocation of the funds from the provincial budget.

East Flood Canal no panacea: BPPT hydologist

East Flood Canal no panacea: BPPT hydologist Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Building the East Flood Canal is unlikely to completely solve Jakarta's flood problems, but would lessen it, says Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a hydrologist at the Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT). "The planned canal will only prevent flooding in the immediate areas near it. But many areas in Jakarta still will be affected by floods," he said.

Indonesia rejects proposed oil embargo against U.S.

Indonesia rejects proposed oil embargo against U.S. A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Singapore Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Purnomo Yusgiantoro said on Friday Indonesia would reject any attempt to use oil as a "weapon" to prevent a possible war in Iraq, an issue which came up during an informal meeting of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in Kuala Lumpur this week.

Banpu earnings in 2002 doubled

Banpu earnings in 2002 doubled BANGKOK: Banpu PCL., a Thai coal miner and power producer, said on Friday net profit for last year almost doubled, helped by higher sales from its Indonesian coal mines. Banpu posted a net profit of 1.45 billion baht, or 6.82 baht per share for last year, compared with 783.9 million baht, or 3.73 baht per share a year earlier. The figure is higher than the 1.28 billion baht consensus estimate from Multex.

Govt urged to issue regulation on Papuan People's Assembly

Govt urged to issue regulation on Papuan People's Assembly Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua The Coalition of Peace-Loving Papuan Women has called on the central government to approve the draft regulation on the Papuan People's Assembly (MRP), which, when formed, will play an important role in the province under its special autonomy status.

Fire guts textile plant

Fire guts textile plant TANGERANG: A textile plant owned by PT. Sandratex in Ciputat, Tangerang, was gutted by a fire on Friday afternoon, but no fatalities were reported. Juharna, a firefighter of the South Jakarta Fire Department, said as quoted by online news provider detik.com that the fire started at 5:58 p.m. When contacted at 6:50 p.m., the official said the fire was still burning. He said that the cause of the fire and the financial loss due to the accident had not yet been determined.

Arroyo sets 90-day deadline to erase Abu Sayyaf from RP

Arroyo sets 90-day deadline to erase Abu Sayyaf from RP Agencies, Manila President Gloria Arroyo set a 90-day deadline on Friday for the military to crush the Abu Sayyaf Moro guerrilla group in the southern Philippines, as opposition grew to the planned deployment of U.S. troops. Arroyo, who made the announcement during a visit to a military camp outside Manila, said the deadline had nothing to do with the future deployment of U.S.

PDI-P special congress unlikely

PDI-P special congress unlikely JAKARTA: First gentlemen Taufik Kiemas played down on Friday the threat of a special congress of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan). "Differences in opinion in a common thing in the party; it is not a threat to the party," Taufik, who is also a senior member of PDI Perjuangan, said on Friday.

'TNI led by antireformists'

'TNI led by antireformists' The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The persistence of the Indonesian Military (TNI)'s leaders in defending a bill that could allow the institution to regain its power reflects their failure to comply with the reform movement, analysts have concluded.

Sunken ship's death toll rises to 40

Sunken ship's death toll rises to 40 MEDAN, North Sumatra: Rescue workers found 12 more bodies on Friday, five days after the sinking of an overloaded ferry off North Sumatra province, raising the death toll to 40, police said. The bodies were of two children, four women and six men, which were all discovered far from the scene of the accident in Tanjung Balai Asahan by the joint search and rescue team.

RI military

RI military turning its back on reform movement 2. Banyu -- Indonesia's changing role in OIC 3. Yale -- Pushing Saddam up against the wall

Restructuring of

Restructuring of state agencies From Media Indonesia In restructuring the state agencies, the government needs to ensure that its administration acts not only in accordance with existing laws, regulations and stipulations, but also in a way that would be better than before. In this respect, the goal of this restructuring would not be fully reached if the government only raises the salaries of civil servants. There is more to this restructuring effort than just money.

City to be hit by large dengue outbreak

City to be hit by large dengue outbreak Bambang Nurbianto The Jakarta Post Jakarta Jakartans should prepare themselves for one of the worst outbreaks of dengue fever in years as the city -- one of the regions with a high risk of dengue -- will likely experience the peak of the disease's five-year cycle this year, a health official said. "All elements of society should anticipate the possibility of the worst outbreak of this disease in years.

KPU members mull resignation over unclear status

KPU members mull resignation over unclear status Tiarma Siboro and Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The General Elections Commission (KPU) is facing a brain drain as the institution has yet to settle a dispute over the status of its members, suggesting gloomy prospects for the upcoming elections. Several members of the commission expressed their intention to quit on Friday, refusing to resign or take long leave as civil servants as demanded by the newly passed Elections Law.

The Changing Role of Indonesia in the OIC

The Changing Role of Indonesia in the OIC Anak Agung Banyu Perwita Department of International Relations Parahyangan Catholic University Bandung banyu@home.unpar.ac.id As reported by The Jakarta Post (Feb. 27, 2003), President Megawati Soekarnoputri has called on the United States not to unilaterally attack Iraq.

An Army get-together

An Army get-together Since his appointment as Army chief of staff, Gen. Ryamizard Ryacudu has twice organized reunions for retired generals his senior as well as for his active juniors, just to maintain good relations. This is a good step, because with these nostalgic meetings, his seniors can feel that they are not forgotten and the juniors have a chance to exchange ideas and get advice from their experienced seniors.

An Army get-together

An Army get-together Since his appointment as Army chief of staff, Gen. Ryamizard Ryacudu has twice organized reunions for retired generals his senior as well as for his active juniors, just to maintain good relations. This is a good step, because with these nostalgic meetings, his seniors can feel that they are not forgotten and the juniors have a chance to exchange ideas and get advice from their experienced seniors.

On Zaenudin M.Z

On Zaenudin M.Z From Pikiran Rakyat I feel deeply concerned over Zaenudin M.Z.'s recent tricks and political maneuvers. To most Muslims, Zaenudin M.Z. is a good preacher, but unfortunately now he pays more attention to the political arena. While before he belonged to all Muslims, now he belongs only to his own party. Politics are cruel as they seek position and money. So, Zaenudin M.Z., where are you taking the Muslims? Zaenudin M.Z. is not true to his word.

Fund misuse report upsets minister

Fund misuse report upsets minister M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A report on irregularities in the use of state funds has infuriated Minister of Social Affairs Bachtiar Chamsyah, who threatened to sue the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) for defamation.

Finance ministry to probe Bank Lippo auditor

Finance ministry to probe Bank Lippo auditor Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Ministry of Finance launched on Friday an investigation into three appraisal firms and one auditor that had conducted an appraisal on assets and the audited financial report of Bank Lippo, for possible involvement in the alleged financial manipulation by the bank's management.

Why not live in harmony?

Why not live in harmony? I really enjoy visiting QB bookshops in Jakarta. The staff there are always smiling and helpful and brighten my day after many hours in the office. Nevertheless, an incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003 which disappointed me. I was browsing in the bookshop in Plaza Senayan when I heard a senior employee criticizing his staff in a loud voice in front of customers in the shop.

Gusmao uneasy about indictments of RI generals

Gusmao uneasy about indictments of RI generals Wahyoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali East Timor President Xanana Gusmao voiced disappointment over the court's issuance of dozens of indictments of senior Indonesian officials for serious crimes committed in the territory in 1999, fearing that it could undermine ongoing reconciliation between the two countries. He, however, admitted that he could not legally intervene against the independent legal system in his country.

Peru FM makes brief visit to Indonesia

Peru FM makes brief visit to Indonesia JAKARTA: Peruvian foreign minister Allan Wagner Tizon made a brief visit to Indonesia on Friday to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries. During the meeting with his Indonesian counterpart Hassan Wirayuda, the two ministers signed three agreements on the establishment of a regular consultation forum, a visa-free policy for diplomats and state officials and an exchange program for diplomats.

Apexindo to start drilling oil, gas wells

Apexindo to start drilling oil, gas wells A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Singapore PT Apexindo Pratama Duta, an Indonesian oil and gas drilling service contractor, will begin drilling oil and gas production wells in Mahakam Delta, East Kalimantan. The drilling will start at the end of March, pending the completion of its newest offshore submersible drilling rig, which is being built in Singapore by Keppel FELS Ltd.

Elections, Bali and Aceh projects boost U.S. aid to Indonesia

Elections, Bali and Aceh projects boost U.S. aid to Indonesia Berni K. Moestafa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Preparing for next year's elections, recovering Bali from the terrorist attacks, and building peace in the war-torn province of Aceh have made the case for a US$10 million increase in funds to Indonesia from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) this year.

Musician Djaduk releases new album 'Quintessence'

Musician Djaduk releases new album 'Quintessence' Tarko Sudiarno, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Without much publicity, a new solo album titled Quintessence from Yogyakarta musician Djaduk Ferianto was released here on Thursday.

Stock prices on The Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Feb. 28, 2003:

Stock prices on The Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Feb. 28, 2003: ------------------------------------------------------- Shares Close Change Volume ------------------------------------------------------- Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 550 0 0 Adindo Foresta 50 0 0 AGIS Tbk 45 0 61,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 130 -5 15,500 Alakasa Industrindo 105 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 725 25 26,000 Alter Abadi Tbk 10 0 0 Alumindo Light 190 0 0 Andhi Chandra 460 0 3,500 Aneka Kimia Raya 450 0 0...

81 ancient sites in C. Sulawesi neglected

81 ancient sites in C. Sulawesi neglected PALU, Central Sulawesi: At least 81 of 120 ancient sites in Central Sulawesi province had been neglected since the implementation of the Regional Autonomy Law in 2000, said a local official on Friday. "The provincial administration here is out of cash, and cannot afford to preserve all the ancient sites," said head of the Central Sulawesi culture and tourism office Liberty Pasaribu.

Japan firms interested Tangguh's LNG

Japan firms interested Tangguh's LNG Dow Jones, Jakarta Japanese companies are interested in buying at least two million metric tons of liquefied natural gas from Indonesia's Tangguh field, the president of state-owned oil and gas company Pertamina Baihaki Hakim said Friday. Pertamina sent a team to Japan earlier this month to market LNG from Papua province, a move that could make the Tangguh LNG project based there more economically viable to develop.

TV Program: Monday, March. 3, 2003

TV Program: Monday, March. 3, 2003 TVRI .TB.30" .90" 5:03 a.m.Religious Teachings 6:00 News: Berita Pagi 7:00 English News Service 7:30 Children's Program: Pentas Ceria 8:00 Talk Show: RT/RW 8:30 DRTV Indonesia 9:00 Tampil Lebih Menarik 9:30 Religious Teachings 10:30 Music 11:00 News: Berita Daerah 11:30 Music: Konteswara 12:00 p.m.News: Berita Siang 1:00 Talk Show: Konsultasi Keluarga 2:00 News: Metro Indonesia 2:30 Music: Pop Daerah 3:03 Kid Channel 3:30 Zooming 4:00 Music: Melayu Berdendang...

'Sign a legal contract when hiring a maid'

'Sign a legal contract when hiring a maid' The absence of regulations governing domestic service agencies, housemaids and employers has contributed to the rising cases of robberies involving domestic helpers. Despite the fact that there are around 63 domestic service agencies in the city that have placed more than 6,000 maids, they are not bound to any employment contracts. The Jakarta Post talked to several people on the issue.

1. INVESTMENT: 3 x 21

1. INVESTMENT: 3 x 21 Economists doubt investment will come ahead of elections 2. LIPPO: 2 x 26 Finance ministry to probe Bank Lippo auditor 3. 2 x 34 Elections, Bali and Aceh projects boost U.S. aid to Indonesia 4. KOREA: 1 x 42 N. Korea stokes fears on nuclear programs 5. VETO: 1 x 61 Russia threatens use of veto, opposes new resolution on Iraq

City to be hit by large dengue outbreak

City to be hit by large dengue outbreak Bambang Nurbianto The Jakarta Post Jakarta Jakartans should prepare themselves for one of the worst outbreaks of dengue fever in years as the city -- one of the regions with a high risk of dengue -- will likely experience the peak of the disease's five-year cycle this year, a health official said. "All elements of society should anticipate the possibility of the worst outbreak of this disease in years.

Tanah Abang versus Bali?

Tanah Abang versus Bali? Ten days after thousands of kiosks at the Tanah Abang textile market were ravaged by fire, not a single institution has come forward to claim responsibility for the disaster -- just as expected. Some people have argued that it is the state electricity company, PLN, that should be held responsible for the disaster, because an eyewitness stated that the fire started at an electrical substation on the first floor.

Stock prices on The Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Feb. 28, 2003:

Stock prices on The Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Feb. 28, 2003: ------------------------------------------------------- Shares Close Change Volume ------------------------------------------------------- Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 550 0 0 Adindo Foresta 50 0 0 AGIS Tbk 45 0 61,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 130 -5 15,500 Alakasa Industrindo 105 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 725 25 26,000 Alter Abadi Tbk 10 0 0 Alumindo Light 190 0 0 Andhi Chandra 460 0 3,500 Aneka Kimia Raya 450 0 0...

PDI-P backs ex-generals for top post in North Sumatra

PDI-P backs ex-generals for top post in North Sumatra Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan, North Sumatra The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) has named four retired Army generals as gubernatorial candidates to lead the province of North Sumatra for the next five years. Budi Mulya Bangun, a legislator of the party's provincial chapter, confirmed on Friday that the PDI Perjuangan executive board had proposed the four candidates to the North Sumatra chapter.

An Army get-together

An Army get-together Since his appointment as Army chief of staff, Gen. Ryamizard Ryacudu has twice organized reunions for retired generals his senior as well as for his active juniors, just to maintain good relations. This is a good step, because with these nostalgic meetings, his seniors can feel that they are not forgotten and the juniors have a chance to exchange ideas and get advice from their experienced seniors.

Raids on women suspected of being street workers in Bogor have

Raids on women suspected of being street workers in Bogor have provoked criticism, with several people strongly protesting the Bogor administration's incompetence for netting the wrong persons last week. The women were just taking a stroll when several officers apprehended them, despite the fact that they had ID cards. They were then rushed to a rehabilitation center in the neighboring town of Sukabumi.

Aceh: An extremely fragile peace agreement

Aceh: An extremely fragile peace agreement 2. Riza -- Nonaligned Movement and Iraq crisis 3. Yomi - N. Korea's provocations need proper response

Court delays verdict for Noer Muis

Court delays verdict for Noer Muis JAKARTA: The human rights tribunal delayed on Friday its verdict on former East Timor military commander Brig. Gen. Noer Muis, one of 18 Indonesian nationals prosecuted for crimes against humanity in East Timor in 1999. "The judges are yet to agree on the verdict. Accordingly, the tribunal will require more time," said presiding judge Andriani Nurdin to the court. The trial was adjourned until March 12.

Timber firm Barito to buy Enim Musi Leastari

Timber firm Barito to buy Enim Musi Leastari The Jakarta Post Jakarta One of the country's largest timber companies, PT Barito Pacific Timber announced on Thursday that it had provided US$255.6 million in cash to buy a 60 percent stake in PT Enim Musi Lestari, which manages some 296,400 hectares of industrial plantations. Barito currently holds a 40 percent stake in the company, while the remaining 50 percent is owned by PT Tunggal Setia Pratama and 10 percent by PT Muktilestari Kencana.

5 Indonesian detained for overstaying in U.S.

5 Indonesian detained for overstaying in U.S. Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Five Indonesian nationals have been detained by immigration authorities in the United States for violating their visas, taking Jakarta by surprise. The Indonesian foreign ministry has ordered all representative offices in the United States to make regular contact with the local immigration and naturalization service (INS) offices to detect problems facing Indonesians.

17 RI students stay put in Iraq

17 RI students stay put in Iraq JAKARTA: At least 17 of 34 Indonesian students evacuated from Iraq to Syria recently have decided to return to Iraq at their own risk, an official said Friday. Director for Information and Media at the foreign ministry, Wahid Supriyadi, said here Friday that his directorate had reminded the students of the dangers they may encounter if they stayed in Iraq.

Body parts of victims to be cremated

Body parts of victims to be cremated DENPASAR, Bali: The body parts of the victims of the Bali bombing are scheduled to be cremated at Mumbul cemetery, Nusa Dua, on Saturday and their ashes will be released at Sanur beach. "There are 169 bags of unidentified body parts to be cremated at 10 a.m.," head of Sanglah Hospital forensic laboratory Made Maker said on Friday. Of the 169 bags, 84 contained samples of body parts taken for DNA identification.

Mining agency, water companies sign pact

Mining agency, water companies sign pact JAKARTA: The city mining agency, city-owned tap water company PAM Jaya and its two foreign operators signed a joint agreement on Thursday on underground water usage and the tap water produced by PAM Jaya's foreign operators. Currently, the production and distribution of tap water from the eastern half of the Ciliwung River is carried out by British Thames PAM Jaya. While PAM Lyonnaise Jaya of France is responsible for the western half of the river.

Busway starts trial period

Busway starts trial period Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Many motorists and pedestrians were amazed to see two new city buses, escorted by a number of City Transportation Agency motorcycles and cars, driving along Jl. Sudirman and Jl. MH Thamrin on Friday. Yes, it was the long-awaited busway project undergoing a trial run. The buses were distinctive, not only because of their yellow- orange color scheme, but also because of their unusual doors and seating arrangements.

Aceh: An extremely fragile peace agreement

Aceh: An extremely fragile peace agreement International Crisis Group, Brussel/Jakarta On Dec. 9, 2002, an agreement on cessation of hostilities in Aceh was concluded in Geneva, bringing hope that an end to the 26-year-old conflict between Indonesian government forces and guerrillas of the proindependence Free Aceh Movement (GAM) was in sight. Since then there have been many positive developments, most strikingly, a dramatic drop in the level of violence.

Honest cabbie honored by Thai govt

Honest cabbie honored by Thai govt THAILAND: A Thai taxi driver has been honored by the government as a "good example" for his countrymen after he returned $6,800 in cash plus other valuables mistakenly left in his cab by a pair of Russian tourists, news reports said on Friday. A reward of 3,000 baht ($71) and a plaque were presented to cabbie Samarn Surairam, 31, on Thursday by Tourism and Sports Minister Sontaya Kunplome.

Food poisoning hits 300 workers

Food poisoning hits 300 workers VIETNAM: Nearly 300 workers at a South Korean-owned garment manufacturing plant in Vietnam's southern business capital of Ho Chi Minh City were treated in hospital after eating contaminated food, the firm said on Thursday. The 295 employees of the Kyungrim Vina Co. in the city's Binh Chanh district were taken to two nearby hospitals on Thursday after complaining of respiratory problems, vomiting and diarrhea.

Breeder takes peacocks under his wing

Breeder takes peacocks under his wing Bambang M., Contributor, Yogyakarta At times, luck plays an important role in one's success. And Sudartomo believes luck has contributed the most to his success in breeding the rare green peacock in captivity. The success of the 62-year-old resident of Siliran, Yogyakarta, is good news for conservationists and bird lovers since the green peacock (Pavo muticus) -- famous for its beautiful feathers -- is a protected species.

'Unprofessional police need better role models'

'Unprofessional police need better role models' Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta As more and more police officers committed crimes, extra effort by the officers' superiors would be needed to supervise their behavioral development, a noted criminologist said on Friday. Adrianus Meliala said senior policemen should pay more attention to their subordinates who, in general, tended to suffer from stress which later led them to become criminals themselves.

All the best, Lin Che Wei!

All the best, Lin Che Wei! 2. Ardimas -- Conflicts cloud Megawati's future 3. Island -- Negotiated deal the best but...

Kadin DKI to help traders

Kadin DKI to help traders JAKARTA: The Jakarta chapter of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin DKI) vowed on Friday to help the occupants of burned kiosks in the Tanah Abang textile market in Central Jakarta, to retain their leases on the kiosks. "We will help them find the best solution to the matter," Kadin Jakarta chairman Pungki B. Purwadi said as quoted by city- owned news portal beritajakarta.com.

House to define BPOM's authority

House to define BPOM's authority JAKARTA: The House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VII for health and social welfare will facilitate efforts to eliminate overlapping duties between the Ministry of Health and the Drugs and Food Control Agency (BPOM). "Commission VII will be a mediator in assigning who is responsible for what," Ahmad Sanoesi Tambunan said on Thursday in a hearing with the BPOM.

Police told to get sharp with terrorism cases

Police told to get sharp with terrorism cases Moch. N. Kurniawan and Wahyoe Boediwardana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Denpasar The rejection of the dossiers of the Bali bombing suspects showed that the Indonesian police lack professionalism in dealing with the terrorist attacks, observers say. Legal experts T.

Mega's move to split Papua unconstitutional: Expert

Mega's move to split Papua unconstitutional: Expert Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Opposition continues to mount against President Megawati Soekarnoputri's decision to partition the province of Papua into three smaller provinces. Claiming that the decision contradicted Law No.

Peru FM makes a brief visit to RI

Peru FM makes a brief visit to RI JAKARTA: Peruvian Minister for Foreign Affairs Allan Wagner Tizon made a brief visit to Indonesia on Friday to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries. Tizon arrived Friday morning from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and held a meeting with his Indonesian counterpart Hassan Wirayuda immediately.

1. FIRE: 12 x 4 lines

1. FIRE: 12 x 4 lines Fire department frustrated by uncooperative building owners 2. DAS: 18 x 2 lines East Flood Canal no panacea: Expert 3. POLISI: 42 x 1 line 'Unprofessional police need better role models' 4. FORUM: 42 x 1 line City enlists experts for development forum 5. SPEAK: 36 x 1 line 'Sign a legal contract when you hire a maid'

ASEAN remains important body for SE Asia

ASEAN remains important body for SE Asia Agence France-Presse, Singapore ASEAN remains an important body for Southeast Asian countries and members should cooperate to keep the group cohesive irrespective of bilateral problems, Singapore President S.R. Nathan said. Nathan, speaking on late Thursday at a state dinner for visiting Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, rejected allegations that the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), founded in 1967, was in decline.

Indonesia rejects proposed oil embargo against U.S.

Indonesia rejects proposed oil embargo against U.S. A'an Suryana The Jakarta Post Singapore Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Purnomo Yusgiantoro said on Friday Indonesia would reject any attempt to use oil as a "weapon" to prevent a possible war in Iraq, an issue which came up during an informal meeting of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in Kuala Lumpur this week.

Owners of high-rises indifferent to fire checks

Owners of high-rises indifferent to fire checks Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Jakarta Fire Department said on Friday the managements of many high-rise buildings were often uncooperative when it came to regular checks of their fire safety systems and equipment.

All the best, Lin Che Wei!

All the best, Lin Che Wei! Yanuar Nugroho, Director, The Business Watch Indonesia, Surakarta, yanuar-n@unisosdem.org A short message service (SMS) on the morning of Feb. 25 read, "Please help invite as many economists, stock and market analysts and other professionals as possible, to come to the Attorney General's Office this Tuesday, March 4 at 1 p.m.

A close look at EOR: Enhanced oil recovery

A close look at EOR: Enhanced oil recovery David M. Schiller Contributor Jakarta Many people unfortunately believe that oil occurs as huge underground pools or lakes, trapped in massive subterranean caves. This misconception, however, is far from the truth. Oil is actually found within rock. That's right! Hard rock -- typically sandstone or limestone -- occurring at depths of anywhere from several hundred to tens of thousands of feet below the Earth's surface.

Sandy upset in ITF quarterfinals

Sandy upset in ITF quarterfinals Musthofid, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Second seeded Sandy Gumulya stumbled to an upset 6-7(5), 7-6(4), 6-4 loss to fellow Indonesian Dian Mayasari in the girls' singles quarterfinal round match at the ITF Junior Championship here on Friday. Sandy failed to continue her winning form, which had earned her the Cigna Open victory a couple of weeks ago, as she seemed to be suffering a pain from an injured left wrist that she sustained in training.

Economists doubt investment will come ahead of elections

Economists doubt investment will come ahead of elections Adianto P. Simamora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government's launch of Invest in Indonesia Year 2003 will lead to a dead end because no concrete action has been taken to support the program and political uncertainty will increase ahead of next year's elections, experts said. They said the government would be busy with political events over the next two years, leaving plans to boost investment forgotten.

Bankruptcy suit against Unilever dismissed

Bankruptcy suit against Unilever dismissed The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Central Jakarta Commercial Court dismissed on Friday a bankruptcy petition against consumer goods manufacturing giant PT Unilever Indonesia, the company said in a press statement. The court ruled that PO Parma Djaja had no legal basis to file the bankruptcy suit because Unilever did not have any outstanding or maturing debts to the company, a necessary condition for filing such a petition.

Cirebon to crown new sultan this month

Cirebon to crown new sultan this month Nana Rukmana, The Jakarta Post, Cirebon, West Java The royal family of Cirebon's Kanoman sultanate said on Friday it would go ahead with its plan to crown Elang Muhammad Saladin as the new sultan next month despite strong opposition from a number of family members.

Glodok remains messy

Glodok remains messy From Warta Kota The area in front of the Harco Building in Glodok, West Jakarta, remains messy despite the iron fence and traffic signs. Clearly, local authorities have failed to exercise proper control over this area. Dozens of sidewalk vendors crowd the entry to this shopping compound, while the slow lane in Pinangsia Raya Road, the road leading to the entry of this compound, is crowded with parked motorcycles and taxis despite the "No-Parking" signs.

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;JP;dan; ANPAf..r.. Rupiah-conversion-rates Rupiah Rates Feb. 28 JP/13/Conver Rupiah Rates Feb.