Archive: 16 April 2003
94 articles found
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Part 1 of 2 Globalization and the spread of conflict
Part 1 of 2 Globalization and the spread of conflict Nasir Tamara, Chairman, The Center for Globalization and Social Studies, Jakarta The second war in Iraq is almost over. However, the world appears to be entering a very dangerous era of global conflict between the West and the Muslim world. Many moderate democratic Muslims genuinely feel offended, humiliated and angry about the many innocent victims of the war.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Regional economy, and people, must be prioritized
Regional economy, and people, must be prioritized By Sjahrir, analyst and Chairman of the New Indonesia Alliance Party( Partai Perhimpunan Indonesia Baru) Whoever wins the 2004 general elections will not be able to govern properly if they do not attend to the economic problems of the regions, and at the same time can overcome these issues. The 2004 general elections will produce a president holding a high degree of credibility and legitimacy.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Agricultural development aims to beat poverty
Agricultural development aims to beat poverty By Bungaran Saragih, Minister of Agriculture The agricultural sector, often ignored during the heyday of high economic growth, has again proven its resilience and demonstrated its vital role in preventing poverty in rural areas from worsening. It is no exaggeration to say that agriculture has been the savior of the economy over the past years of a lingering multidimensional crisis.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Democracy and violence
Democracy and violence From Forum Keadilan For champions of democracy, weapons cannot bring about democracy. It has been proven in history that violence can never give birth to democracy; instead it breeds hatred and repression. A social revolution has never brought about a democratic new order. In the New Order era, Indonesia was under a military regime headed by Soeharto. It was authoritarian and repressed everything critical of the government.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Image, rule of law key to investment in Indonesia
Image, rule of law key to investment in Indonesia British Ambassador Richard Gozney also discussed the prospects of investment and trade in Indonesia, touching on the responsibilities of multinationals to local communities and the government's need to deal with the country's international image problem. Investment all depends on the attraction of investing locally. On the manufacturing side, China is a big attraction at the moment.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
KL economic growth to slow down: MIER
KL economic growth to slow down: MIER Agence France-Presse Kuala Lumpur The Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (MIER) on Tuesday cut its 2003 economic growth forecast for Malaysia due to a fall in tourists following the outbreak of SARS. MIER executive director Mohamed Ariff said it reduced its growth forecast for Malaysia to 3.7 percent from an earlier projection of 5.7 percent.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
1 x 50
1 x 50 Asia-Pacific travel industry to rebound despite crisis JP/2/AIRLINE 1 x 33 RI airlines boom as others cut back JP/2/ACEH 1 x 37 'Military operations have always failed' JP/2/WARMING 2 x 32 Aviation industry told to reduce emissions and protect environment JP/2/aceh 1 x 40 Fear returns to Aceh as tension rises
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Lippo gets new management, Mochtar retained as chairman
Lippo gets new management, Mochtar retained as chairman Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Shareholders of publicly listed Bank Lippo appointed Joseph Luhukay as the new president of the bank at an extraordinary shareholders meeting on Tuesday.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Land issue postpones JORR project
Land issue postpones JORR project Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Jakarta residents who hope to see fewer traffic jams in the next few months with the completion of the first part of the Jakarta Outer Ring Road (JORR) will be disappointed, as the work has been halted due to a land dispute.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
The economy: Between muddling through and a strong recovery
The economy: Between muddling through and a strong recovery By Vincent Lingga, Senior Editor Optimists are looking forward to a more democratic Indonesia built on a stronger, better local autonomy five years down the road. In their hopeful vision, provinces will compete with each other to woo investment, with new businesses creating jobs which will pay wages to generate consumer demand and propel the production machineries of goods and services.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Indonesian business still far from ruin
Indonesian business still far from ruin Suparwanto Chairman of the Indonesian Association of Employers (Apindo) Jakarta It's all too easy to take a superficial, inevitably dim view of prospects for the business world in Indonesia in the next five to 10 years, a perspective shaped by the gloom from the lingering economic crisis. Fortunately, true entrepreneurs always know how to get themselves out of a quandary.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
ASEAN On the Comeback Trail
ASEAN On the Comeback Trail or ASEAN Ready for its Close-up By Hadi Soesastro, Executive Director of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Jakarta The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is like a onetime child star returning to the stage. It was once highly popular, but after its successful run, it assumed the role of the also-ran. It often missed performances due to mismanagement, or from simply being out of sorts. It could no longer find proper roles to play.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Does regional autonomy better the people's lot?
Does regional autonomy better the people's lot? By P. Agung Pambudhi Any attempt to evaluate the implementation of regional autonomy faces extreme difficulties because of two reasons. First, the implementation of regional autonomy has been going on only for two years so that empirical evidence is relatively limited.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Three more arrested for blockade of pulp factory
Three more arrested for blockade of pulp factory Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan, North Sumatra The police in Tarutung, North Tapanuli, North Sumatra, arrested on Tuesday three people for preventing log trucks from supplying raw materials to a pulp mill belonging to PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL), in Porsea, some 170 kilometers south of Medan. The spokesman for the North Sumatra Police, Sr. Comr.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Corporate restructuring a must
Corporate restructuring a must Politicians who whip up narrow-minded nationalistic sentiment against foreign investors acquiring assets in Indonesia seem unaware of how vital asset disposal, corporate restructuring and divestment of nationalized banks are to economic recovery. They overlook the reality that companies which are hostage to bad debts will remain closed to credit lines, thereby unable to raise production rates to meet domestic and export demands.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Environmentalists call for an end to deforestation
Environmentalists call for an end to deforestation Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Environmentalists met with People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) chairman Amien Rais and his deputy, Kholil Bisri, on Tuesday to demand that political pressure be put on military and police personnel to stop illegal logging throughout the country.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Miroto dances to rhythm of his heart
Miroto dances to rhythm of his heart Suherdjoko, Contributor, Yogyakarta His deep devotion to dance has brought Martinus Miroto fame and fortune. At the age of 44, he is a celebrated dancer and choreographer who performs at festivals both locally and internationally -- no longer at wedding parties or village celebrations as he used to in his youth.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
City seeks relocation of arsenal
City seeks relocation of arsenal JAKARTA: The city is seeking removal of the military arsenal built on a 28-hectare site in Pulo Gebang subdistrict, East Jakarta, as its position is now too close to residential areas, an official has said. Head of the City Environmental Management Agency (BPLHD) Kosasih Wirahadikusumah said on Tuesday that the city proposal had been approved by a small team tasked with studying the possibility of removing the store.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Taking Care of Business By Aiding Investors
Taking Care of Business By Aiding Investors Tsutomu Nakagawa Chairman Jakarta Japan Club General Manager Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi Jakarta The approved value of foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2002 was US$9.74 billion, a fall of 35.3 percent from the previous year. Figures for other countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are also declining, due to the global economic slowdown, uncertainty about the world political situation, and the rising power of China.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
How to avoid the brittle bone problem
How to avoid the brittle bone problem Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta "You're not in any danger yet, you're still young, but you should eat more calcium-enriched foods just to make sure," a nurse tells a woman in her late 20s after she had her bone density measured at a mall recently.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Jakob to receive honorary doctorate
Jakob to receive honorary doctorate YOGYAKARTA: Former Kompas chief editor Jakob Oetama is to receive an honorary doctoral degree in communication from Gadjah Mada University here on Thursday. The university's rector Sofian Effendi said on Tuesday the award would be given to Jakob for his outstanding achievement in developing a peaceful, non-violent and humanist style of journalism that greatly respects justice and takes sides with ordinary people.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Husband kills ex-con wife
Husband kills ex-con wife TEMANGGUNG, Central Java: A man stabbed his wife to death on her return home after serving a six-month prison term for killing the child she conceived during an affair. The suspect, identified only by his initial BSK, murdered his twenty-year-old wife, Fitria, during a quarrel on Monday afternoon. "The victim died from multiple stab wound to her body. We counted 12 wounds on various parts on her body," said Temanggung Police chief Adj. Snr. Comr.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Tangerang to build sport complex
Tangerang to build sport complex JAKARTA: The Tangerang regency administration plans to build a 20-hectare sports complex near Bumi Serpong Damai (BSD) housing estate in Pagedangan district of Tangerang regency, regent Ismet Iskandar said on Tuesday. The newly elected regent said that the sports complex was expected to be an alternative to the Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex at Senayan, South Jakarta and would host various national and international sports events.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
High school students debate hot political issues
High school students debate hot political issues M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After over an hour of intense debate, Sahil Nantani, Natasha Djaja and Vanessa Budiharja from Sekolah Pelita Harapan, Tangerang, Banten Province, managed to outwit Intan Haddijah, Richard Anggoro and Tirza Reinata from SMU 34 Jakarta, and took home the top trophy in the 2003 National School Debating Championships late on Monday.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
'Controversial new visa policy will kill tourism'
'Controversial new visa policy will kill tourism' The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Nusa Dua The new controversial visa policy will hurt the tourism industry as citizens of countries enjoying visa-on-arrival will have to obtain the facility for different destinations. Minister of Justice and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra said on Tuesday that visas-on-arrival would be valid only in the place of issuance and the surrounding areas.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Jakob to receive honorary doctorate
Jakob to receive honorary doctorate YOGYAKARTA: Former Kompas chief editor Jakob Oetama is to receive an honorary doctoral degree in communication from Gadjah Mada University here on Thursday. The university's rector Sofian Effendi said on Tuesday the award would be given to Jakob for his outstanding achievement in developing a peaceful, non-violent and humanist style of journalism that greatly respects justice and takes sides with ordinary people.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
By Dr. Gerhard Fulda
By Dr. Gerhard Fulda Ambassador of The Federal Republic of Germany Indonesian history of the past six years is notable for the huge overall turbulence and change. Only a few countries have faced so many diverse and complex problems at once: the economic crisis of the late 1990s, the big political changes after the end of Soeharto's 32-year-long rule, separatist conflicts.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Lingering Lippo saga
Lingering Lippo saga The extraordinary shareholders meeting of publicly listed Bank Lippo succeeded in replacing the majority of both the boards of directors and commissioners, but failed to straighten out the controversies that have damaged the bank's reputation and integrity as an institution. The appointment of such competent persons with high integrity, such as Djisman Simandjuntak, rector of the Prasetiya Mulya Business School, and I.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
TV Program: Wednesday, April 16, 2003
TV Program: Wednesday, April 16, 2003 .TB.30" 1.00" TVRI .TB.30" .90" 6:00 a.m. News: Berita Pagi 7:00 English News Service 9:00 Documentary 9:30 Cooking Program: Menu Sehat 11:00 News: Berita Daerah 12:00 p.m.News: Berita Siang 1:00 Talk Show: Konsultasi Keluarga 2:30 Music: Pop Daerah 6:00 News: Berita Petang 7:00 Quiz: Ekspresi Gaya Pelajar 9:00 News: Berita Malam 11:00 Talk Show TPI 6:00 a.m. News: Selamat Pagi Indonesia 8:00 Indian Film 11:30 Music: In Dangdut 2:00 p.m.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia-Korea economic ties expanding
Indonesia-Korea economic ties expanding By Lee Hye-min, Economic Counselor, Korean Embassy in Jakarta The Indonesian and South Korean economies greatly complement each other. On the one hand, Indonesia is richly endowed with a wide variety of natural resources, the home to a potentially vast consumer market with its population of more than 210 million and boasting a huge pool of easily trainable labor.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Catholics told to avoid kissing cross
Catholics told to avoid kissing cross MALAYSIA: Malaysian Catholics have been advised not to kiss the cross during this year's Easter ceremonies in a bid to prevent the spread of the deadly SARS virus, it was reported on Tuesday. Instead, they have been told to simply bow before the cross, the Kota Kinabalu diocese said in a circular to all churches in the capital of the eastern Sabah state on Borneo island.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Garuda to open new Asian routes
Garuda to open new Asian routes Agence France-Presse, Jakarta Flag carrier Garuda Indonesia on Tuesday announced plans to boost its summer schedule despite a recent slump in business due to the war in Iraq and the outbreak of the deadly SARS virus. Garuda expects an improved business climate in the middle of the year and will open several new Asian routes and increase flight frequencies to Shanghai, Singapore and Guangzhou.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
'All parties must stand equal chance'
'All parties must stand equal chance' Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta More politicians and observers have demanded that all political parties, be they big or small, be afforded equal chances of nominating their own presidential and vice presidential candidates. Therefore, the argue, the restrictions limiting the size of the presidential election field must be dropped.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
All schools to be accredited
All schools to be accredited JAKARTA: The Minister of National Education Abdul Malik Fajar swore in on Tuesday 23 members of the National School Accreditation Body (BAS) whose main task is to appraise the quality of schools at all levels nationwide. "It's embarrassing but we have to be honest about our quality of education. We may say that our education is growing in terms of number of schools, but it's not innovative," he said to reporters after the ceremony.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Seeking the right balance for energy sector's growth
Seeking the right balance for energy sector's growth By Purnomo Yusgiantoro, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources The Law 22/1999 on regional autonomy transferred the control of mineral resources, except oil and natural gas, to local administrations.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Suspected arms thief dies in custody of military
Suspected arms thief dies in custody of military Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua Yapenas Murib, 35, one of four civilians suspected of involvement in the theft of arms at the a military district headquarters in Wamena on March 4, died on Tuesday. Yapenas's death caused confusion as he had supposedly no health problems moments before when he reconstructed how he and other suspects helped rebels break into the Army arsenal. Dr.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Aviation industry told to reduce emissions and protect environment
Aviation industry told to reduce emissions and protect environment The Jakarta Post, Nusa Dua, Bali The aviation industry, which contributes less than 2 percent of total carbon dioxide produced globally, has been told to cut emissions to help reduce global warming and protect the environment and related tourism industry. Climate Action Network Australia (CANA) coordinator Danny Kennedy said the airline industry had done little to reduce emissions.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
RI to deport Abu Quassey to Egypt
RI to deport Abu Quassey to Egypt JAKARTA: The government has decided to deport a suspected people-smuggler to Egypt later this week, ignoring a request by Australia authorities to extradite him to Australia. Justice and human rights minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said here on Tuesday that Mootaz Attia Mohammad Hasan, alias Abu Quassey, would be flown to Egypt this week.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Campaign countdown to start next March: KPU
Campaign countdown to start next March: KPU Arya Abhiseka, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The General Elections Commission (KPU) announced on Tuesday the campaign period ahead of the upcoming legislative election would take place between March 11 and April 1, 2004. The KPU is also mandated to ensure that the election campaign runs in a peaceful, educative and well-organized manner and that clashes involving racial or religious issues are avoided.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
1. JORR: 28 pt, 1 cols, 3 X 11
1. JORR: 28 pt, 1 cols, 3 X 11 Land dispute postpones JORR project 2. TEMPO: 50 PT, 4 COLS, 1 X 26 'Tempo' attack trial starts 3. ALI: 28 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 38 'Stop commercial development in Senayan' 4. GALUR: 28 pt, 3 cols, 1 x 30 Traffic priorities questioned 5. SPEAK: 28 pt, 2 cols, 2 x 20 'I'm not sure the loans are fair'
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Concrete Steps to Put Investors at Ease
Concrete Steps to Put Investors at Ease By Tom A. Clough, President Director, PT Semen Cibinong Many people are overly critical of what is now happening in Indonesia, expecting overnight changes in areas that took hundreds of years to be accomplished in European countries. It is baffling that such unrealistically rapid gains are demanded in the transition from an authoritarian, centralized government to a democratic, decentralized state.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Education bill reduces national education to religious matters
Education bill reduces national education to religious matters Moch. N. Kurniawan The Jakarta Post Jakarta Despite strong criticism and opposition from numerous parties, the government and the House of Representatives looked set to go ahead with the controversial education system bill, which would reduce national education to religious matters.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
'Tempo' attack trial starts
'Tempo' attack trial starts Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Central Jakarta District Court is scheduled to begin hearing on Wednesday a trial that the media and the wider public will be watching very closely. It is not the trial related to the 1998 May riots or the two Semanggi shootings that occurred a few months later.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Asia-Pacific travel industry to rebound despite crisis
Asia-Pacific travel industry to rebound despite crisis Rita A. Widiadana and Fitri Wulandari, Nusa Dua, Bali Businesspeople, involved in tourism in the Asia-Pacific region currently meeting in Bali, are mostly optimistic that the tour and travel industry would recover quickly from the onslaught of negative world events of late.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Banks urged to be more aggressive in providing loans
Banks urged to be more aggressive in providing loans Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Bank Indonesia on Tuesday called on the banking sector to take advantage of the continued improvement in the country's macro- economic condition by aggressively increasing its lending exposure to the private sector.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Govt prepares for war in Aceh
Govt prepares for war in Aceh Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Despite the Free Aceh Movement's commitment to participating in a proposed Joint Council meeting, the government has begun to make preparations for a military operation in Aceh, an unpopular move that has elicited strong opposition from various sides.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Reviving tourism
Reviving tourism The black day of Sept. 11, 2001 affected Indonesian tourism, as the arrival of American and European tourists dropped. Then, just when tourism was about to revive, Bali was bombed on Oct. 12 last year. The bomb blast buried all hopes that Indonesian tourism would recover. Many countries issued travel advisories to their citizens, warning against travel to Indonesia. Now, when Bali is relatively quiet, the fear of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) has rocked the world.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
City seeks relocation of arsenal
City seeks relocation of arsenal JAKARTA: The city is seeking removal of the military arsenal built on a 28-hectare site in Pulo Gebang subdistrict, East Jakarta, as its position is now too close to residential areas, an official has said. Head of the City Environmental Management Agency (BPLHD) Kosasih Wirahadikusumah said on Tuesday that the city proposal had been approved by a small team tasked with studying the possibility of removing the store.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Against the war
Against the war not U.S. products From Pikiran Rakyat Many protesters have taken to the streets to protest against the American-led invasion of Iraq and many others have appealed to Indonesians to stop consuming or to boycott American products. However, have those protesters really thought about the consequences of such a boycott? Do all Indonesian people agree with these ideas?
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
SK rules out hostile takeover bid
SK rules out hostile takeover bid SEOUL: South Korea's largest oil refiner SK Corp. said on Tuesday it regarded a Monaco-based fund as a long-term investor and not as a hostile bidder for the flagship of the country's third largest conglomerate. SK Corp. also said it would comply with a request from the fund, Sovereign Asset Management Ltd., to improve corporate governance.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Traffic priorities questioned
Traffic priorities questioned M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Already frazzled by traffic congestion in the city, motorists questioned the policy of the city administration in which it was apparently not making it a priority to construct new flyovers or underpasses on the most congested streets of Jakarta. The lack of urgency can be seen from the decision made by the public works agency to build a flyover on the less-congested Jl. Jend.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Fear, uncertainty return to Aceh as tension rises
Fear, uncertainty return to Aceh as tension rises Nani Farida, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh Fear and uncertainty is once again gripping Aceh province as tension rises between the government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) over the implementation of the peace accord signed last December.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
'Stop commercial development in Senayan'
'Stop commercial development in Senayan' Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former city governor Ali Sadikin demanded on Tuesday that the Bung Karno Sports Complex authorities stop construction of commercial facilities on land originally allocated for sports facilities.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
;JP;
;JP; ANPAf..r.. Rupiah Rates April 15 JP/13/Rates Banknote rates TT rates Seling Buying Seling Buying Australian dollar 1 5,642.57 5,034.40 5,367.14 5,309.59 Brunei dollar 1 5,254.51 4,690.73 4,998.03 4,947.14 Canadian dollar 1 6,422.38 5,732.94 6,108.90 6,046.32 Swiss franch 1 6,725.70 6,001.44 6,397.41 6,329.50 Danish krone 1 1,356.02 1,210.48 1,289.83 1,276.65 Euro 1 10,073.48 8,986.84 9,581.77 9,478.09 Poundsterling 1 14,687.49 13,111.12 13,970.57 13,827.82 Hong Kong dollar 1 1,197.83 1,069.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
New oil and gas law an accident waiting to happen
New oil and gas law an accident waiting to happen Or New oil and gas law does more harm than good By Kurtubi, energy analyst in Jakarta There is seemingly no turning back in the enactment of the new law on oil and gas even though it is clear it will weaken Indonesia as the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG). In the future, Indonesia will be much more dependent on foreign exchange earnings from LNG than on crude oil.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Assets of Hendra Rahardja sought
Assets of Hendra Rahardja sought JAKARTA: The government filed a petition with an Australian court last week to claim the assets of wanted Indonesian banking and business magnate Hendra Rahardja who died in January in the country, a Cabinet minister said. Minister of Justice and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra said on Tuesday that the government had asked the Australian government to locate and freeze Hendra's assets there.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Govt reshuffles 'TVRI' management
Govt reshuffles 'TVRI' management The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government as the shareholder of state television channel TVRI announced on Tuesday that there was a major reshuffle in the company, which includes the replacement of all its directors. While announcing the reshuffle, the deputy to the state minister of state enterprises, Roes Ariawijaya, said the shakeup, stipulated in ministerial decree No.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
'I'm not sure the loans will be disbursed fairly'
'I'm not sure the loans will be disbursed fairly' Last year, each of the city's 287 subdistricts received Rp 250 million for a subdistrict empowerment program (PPMK). Despite reports about irregularities in the disbursement of the fund, which was managed by the subdistrict council, the administration plans to double the amount this year. The Jakarta Post talked to some residents about the program.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
By Tony Agus Ardie,
By Tony Agus Ardie, President of the U.S. Committee of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry The fundamentals of Indonesian-U.S. relations have remained largely unchanged over the years. Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country with more than 210 million people, is geopolitically pivotal to peace and stability in Southeast Asia. It is also richly endowed with a vast variety of natural resources.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
'Military operations have always failed'
'Military operations have always failed' Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Rights campaigners warned on Tuesday that the government's plan to launch a military operation in Aceh to quell separatism would only incite more hatred of the central government among the Acehnese.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Hotels Eke Out a Living in Tough Times
Hotels Eke Out a Living in Tough Times Sudibyo M. Wiradji Contributor Jakarta The continued drop in foreign tourist arrivals is heaping more hardship on the country's star-rated hotels, most still heavily dependent on international visitors for their revenue. And the Iraq war and the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) -- with the perception it is an "Asian" disease -- are not helping matters. "With the current 30 percent occupancy rate, many hotels cannot exist normally.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Trying to Return to the Investment Radar
Trying to Return to the Investment Radar By Lin Che Wei, CFA* As the government endeavors to put its house in order for a better economy, the inter-related areas of debt, the banking sector, privatization and investment all need to be tidied up.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
By Todd Callahan
By Todd Callahan Since 2000, national cement consumption has experienced a strong recovery and the sector as a whole is quite vibrant. Despite temporary declines in growth on parts of Java and Bali, consumption is robust in Riau, Kalimantan, Papua and many other outer islands. According to the Indonesian Cement Association, the industry enjoyed another high-growth year in 2002, with domestic consumption topping just over 27 million metric tons.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
;JP;bkm;
;JP;bkm; ANPAa..r.. Germany-EKONID-interview EKONID chief examines RI's offbeat potential JP/ /Ekonid EKONID chief taps into RI's offbeat potential Berni K. Moestafa The Jakarta Post If deep black is how investors describe Indonesia's short-term prospects, then one has to look hard for the proverbial silver lining.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Democratization, decentralization on the right track
Democratization, decentralization on the right track Indonesia is in the throes of a giant transition from a centralistic, authoritarian government to a more democratic and decentralized administration. British Ambassador Richard Gozney talked to The Jakarta Post's Riyadi Suparno about the sometimes rocky path toward a democratic Indonesia and letting the people have their say through decentralization. I am much more optimistic than many of my Indonesian friends.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
'War in Aceh needs 50,000 combatants'
'War in Aceh needs 50,000 combatants' The Indonesian Military has revealed that its plans to crush Free Aceh Movement separatists would involve 50,000 troops and take just six months but would minimize civilian casualties. A peace deal between the two sides, engaged in a war that has claimed at least 10,000 lives since 1976, is in tatters but both sides have agreed to return to the negotiating table. Iskandar Muda (Aceh) Military Commander Maj. Gen.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
PT Jamsostek director questioned
PT Jamsostek director questioned JAKARTA: President director of state-owned social security company PT Jamsostek was questioned by the city police on Tuesday in connection with his alleged role in a Rp 18.5 billion (US$2 million) corruption case. The questioning of Ahmad Djunaidi started at around 10 a.m. and lasted for about two and a half hours, Antara reported. The case centered on the purchase of 1,200 square meters of land located on Jl.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
AJI opens Udin Center
AJI opens Udin Center YOGYAKARTA: The Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) of Yogyakarta officially announced on Monday night the establishment of the Udin Center, named after murdered journalist Fuad Muhammad Syafruddin. It was established as an information referral center for Udin's case in particular and for violence against the media and journalists in general.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
GAM is untrustworthy
GAM is untrustworthy From Koran Tempo The Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Indonesian government, inked in Geneva, Switzerland, some time ago, has allowed free rein to GAM's activities. Since the signing of the agreement GAM has openly committed some 300 acts of violence in Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam (NAD). Why have we let it happen? Four months have elapsed and nothing of significance has been achieved.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Improving the rules of the game
Improving the rules of the game Yanuar Nugroho Director, The Business Watch Indonesia, Surakarta Lecturer, Sahid University, Surakarta Researcher, Uni Sosial Demokrat, Jakarta yanuar-n@unisosdem.org From the Asian Social Forum at Hyderabad, India, in January 2003 to the World Social Forum at Porto Allegre, Brazil, in February 2003, held as the alternative to the World Economic Forum in Davos, strong criticism - if not rejection- has been leveled at the current practice of globalization.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Where to go in Surabaya, for Wednesday, April 16, 2003
Where to go in Surabaya, for Wednesday, April 16, 2003 Exhibition * Painting, Imajinasi Tentang Perempuan (Fantasy On Women) by Agus Kucing, at Galeri Surabaya, Jl. Pemuda 15 (Tel. 031- 5454120), 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., April 17 to April 23. Film * Film, Tanguy, directed by Etienne Chatillez, at CCCL - French Cultural Center, Jl. Darmokali 10 (Tel. 031-5615246), at 6 p.m., April 18 and April 21. Performances * Monologue, Biografi Kursi Tua by R.Kiryadi, at Galeri Surabaya, Jl. Pemuda 15 (Tel.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Jakob to receive honorary doctorate
Jakob to receive honorary doctorate YOGYAKARTA: Former Kompas chief editor Jakob Oetama is to receive an honorary doctoral degree in communication from Gadjah Mada University here on Thursday. The university's rector Sofian Effendi said on Tuesday the award would be given to Jakob for his outstanding achievement in developing a peaceful, non-violent and humanist style of journalism that greatly respects justice and takes sides with ordinary people.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
East Timorese children reunite with childrens
East Timorese children reunite with childrens Elcid Li, The Jakarta Post, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara The reunion took place in no-man's-land. Also called the tactical coordination line, a 300-meter-long strip of beach just outside of Belu regency between East Timor and Indonesia, where neither country's laws apply. From Indonesia, several cars carrying children arrived at the beach. Then from East Timor came two cars with their parents. There were five families altogether.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Checked by bruce
Checked by bruce Auto industry needs govt to take front seat on economic road OR Automakers look to govt to steer out of economic woes Progress is coming in fits and starts for the Indonesian automobile industry, still on the long road to recovery amid the depressed market resulting from the economic crisis that struck in 1997.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Is it time to bid goodbye to the IMF?
Is it time to bid goodbye to the IMF? Many people are unaware of the fact that the current International Monetary Fund (IMF) program in Indonesia ends on Dec. 31 this year and cannot, under the rules of the IMF, be extended. It is actually up to Indonesia to request a new arrangement if it so desires. The choice for Indonesia is to decide on whether it still needs the exceptional international support a special IMF program provides.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Jamsostek told not to seek profit
Jamsostek told not to seek profit Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta State social security firm PT Jamsostek must change its status as a public limited liability company to improve its service to members rather than seeking profit, according to an International Labor Organization (ILO) study. The study said that Jamsostek must be made into a public social security institution that holds its members' premiums in a trust under the supervision of a tripartite board.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
1. ACEH: 1 x 30
1. ACEH: 1 x 30 Govt prepares for war in Aceh 2. DJALI: 1 x 38 'War in Aceh needs 50,000 combatants' 3. IRAQ: 2 x 25 Iraqi and coalition leaders meet to discuss postwar Iraq 4. TAX: 3 x 20 Govt plans another tax-break facility for ailing industry
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Treat current investors well, and others will come calling
Treat current investors well, and others will come calling By Carol Hessler President, AmCham Indonesia Indonesia has the potential to be a magnet for investment, as the government has done an excellent job in restoring macroeconomic stability. This entailed a tremendous effort on the part of the government, and AmCham can understand why there might be some frustration as officials review the continuing negative numbers on foreign direct investment (FDI).
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
SARS will curb growth rates in Asia, S&P says
SARS will curb growth rates in Asia, S&P says Agence France-Presse, Hong Kong International rating agency Standard and Poor's said on Tuesday that the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) would lower growth rates in much of Asia this year, with Hong Kong taking the brunt of the damage. The agency said the virus has affected not just tourist arrivals and consumer spending, but also business operations and investments with potential impact rising with each new case and death.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
In Asia, SARS packs discrimination
In Asia, SARS packs discrimination Jason Szep, Reuters, Singapore Shunned by taxi drivers, rejected at hotels, turned back at immigration counters, many people from SARS-hit Asian regions are discovering another symptom of the deadly SARS virus -- discrimination. In Hong Kong, residents in buildings afflicted by SARS complain of being turned away by private doctors as soon as they disclose their addresses.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Bandung protesters here to stay
Bandung protesters here to stay BANDUNG, West Java: West Java councillors better get used to it. A group of protesters have built a stage in front of the council building in the West Java capital of Bandung to stage daily protests against the ongoing gubernatorial election process. Calling themselves the Sundanese People's Forum (Formmas), the protesters demanded that the West Java council postpone the election of a new governor.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Husband kills ex-con wife
Husband kills ex-con wife TEMANGGUNG, Central Java: A man stabbed his wife to death on her return home after serving a six-month prison term for killing the child she conceived during an affair. The suspect, identified only by his initial BSK, murdered his twenty-year-old wife, Fitria, during a quarrel on Monday afternoon. "The victim died from multiple stab wound to her body. We counted 12 wounds on various parts on her body," said Temanggung Police chief Adj. Snr. Comr.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Sudibyo M. Wiradji
Sudibyo M. Wiradji Contributor Jakarta Worldwide travel fears resulting from the war in Iraq and the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) have come as further setbacks for Indonesia's battered tourism industry. Tourism officials and executives of the country's star-rated hotels acknowledge they are already seeing repercussions from the war and the spread of the killer disease, with travelers canceling planned visits.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Govt shooting itself in foot with new visa policy
Govt shooting itself in foot with new visa policy Stefan Reisner, Puri Asri Hotel, Ubud, Bali Anger, confusion and disbelief -- that is the reaction of the tourist industry and the expatriate community following the drastic change in immigration regulations. The government recently revoked the visa-free-entry for tourists from 48 countries.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
RI airlines boom as others cut back
RI airlines boom as others cut back Slobodan Lekic, Associated Press, Denpasar, Bali The launch of Air Paradise International in February couldn't have come at a worse time. The Bali-based airline's maiden flight was delayed for three months after the Oct. 12 terrorist attacks on the island in which 202 people died. When it finally took to the air Feb. 16, it had to contend not only with a slump in travel to Bali, but also with the looming war in Iraq.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Junta has 'complete trust' in Suu Kyi
Junta has 'complete trust' in Suu Kyi MYANMAR: Myanmar's junta said on Tuesday it "has complete trust" in pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi's pursuit of development in the military-run state, and is encouraging her to travel throughout the country. The junta statement came as it sought to downplay reports that the Nobel peace laureate had been harassed by aggressive pro- Yangon elements during her recent political trip to the western Chin state.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
New finance law an overlooked milestone
New finance law an overlooked milestone By Edimon Ginting After a lengthy process of deliberation, the House of Representatives and the government finally passed the State Finance Law early last month. It was one of three public finance laws proposed in a package to the legislature in September 2002. The other two, on treasury and audit respectively, are still being debated by a special committee and government representatives in the legislature.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Oil weakens as Iraq war winds down, eyes OPEC
Oil weakens as Iraq war winds down, eyes OPEC Barbara Lewis, Reuters, London Oil prices weakened on Tuesday while traders weighed a possible reduction in OPEC production against an eventual resumption of Iraqi crude flows as the U.S.-led war in Iraq drew to a close. U.S. light crude on Tuesday was down 13 U.S. cents at US$28.50 a barrel, while London's Brent crude lost 23 U.S. cents to $24.76 a barrel.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Airlines group sounds 'Mayday' call for industry
Airlines group sounds 'Mayday' call for industry Agence France Presse, Singapore A grouping of Asia-Pacific airlines on Tuesday urged governments to cut airport fees and other charges and consider providing war risk insurance to prevent the industry's collapse from the impact of the SARS health scare.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Anglo-American responsibility
Anglo-American responsibility I blush to be British. Page one of The Jakarta Post on Saturday, April 12, showed two completely distraught Iraqi children, newly orphaned by the Anglo-American aggression on their country. Page 12 of the previous day's issue had a picture of a horribly maimed Iraqi boy. These are the orphans and the maimed for whom the attacking U.S. and British forces have a direct moral responsibility.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Customs office clears Bulog's imported sugar to stabilize price
Customs office clears Bulog's imported sugar to stabilize price Adianto P. Simamora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Directorate General of Customs and Excise finally agreed on Tuesday to clear 36,000 tons of imported sugar from a Jakarta warehouse as the price of the commodity continued to rise on the local market. Customs director general Eddy Abdurrahman said the decision was made after all administrative requirements for customs clearance had been met.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Govt plans another tax-break facility for ailing industry
Govt plans another tax-break facility for ailing industry Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government plans to introduce a tax-break facility worth Rp 1 trillion (about US$113 million) to help ailing local businesses cope with rising production costs and a gloomy export market.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Japan Depends on Southeast Asian Stability
Japan Depends on Southeast Asian Stability Japan is a major league player in its relationship with Indonesia, both as a trade partner and in extending development aid to its Asian neighbor. Japanese Ambassador to Indonesia Yutaka Iimura discussed his country's perspective on the Indonesian economy today and what needs to be done to strengthen it tomorrow, particularly with the end of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program looming and the unfavorable investment climate.
Wed, 16 Apr 2003, 00:00 WIB
Dutch to continue aid program in RI
Dutch to continue aid program in RI JAKARTA: The Netherlands government will extend its poverty alleviation program in Indonesia into 2004 following a successful project implemented last year, said a press statement issued on Tuesday. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Dorodjatun Kuntjoro- Jakti and the Netherlands' Ambassador to Indonesia Ruud Treffers will sign an MoU on Thursday for the extension of the Program for Cooperation with Emerging Markets.