Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 April 2003

82 articles found

40 NGOs fight for peace in Aceh

40 NGOs fight for peace in Aceh BANDA ACEH, Aceh: Some 40 non-governmental organizations launched a coalition at the office of the Joint Security Committee (JSC) in the city to fight for peace in the province. Before the declaration, a number of activists gave speeches opposing violence and calling for rebels and security personnel to comply with the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed last December.

Funding problems delay KPUD office setups

Funding problems delay KPUD office setups The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The late disbursement of election funds from the central government has hampered the establishment of Regional General Elections Commission (KPUD) offices in several provinces, which could delay the 2004 elections.

Iraqi civilians welcome U.S. troops in Najaf

Iraqi civilians welcome U.S. troops in Najaf Karl Malakunas, Agence France-Presse, Near Najaf, Iraq Hundreds of civilians welcomed U.S. troops who reached the Shiite Muslim holy city of Najaf in central Iraq with "cheers and waves", a military commander involved in the operation said on Wednesday. The commander of the 101st Airborne Division's Aviation Brigade, Col. Greg Gass, said Najaf was becoming "more and more secure" to U.S.

KL must boost competitiveness

KL must boost competitiveness KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has to make its corporate sector more competitive and draw in more foreign investment to sustain its economic growth, Moody's Investors Service said on Wednesday. In its annual report, Moody's maintained its Baa1 rating and stable outlook for Malaysia, citing an improved external financial position and a resilient electronics sector in the face of global volatility.

S'pore manufacturing index down

S'pore manufacturing index down SINGAPORE: A leading indicator of Singapore's manufacturing sector declined for the first time in 12 months on weaker demand, the Singapore Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management (SIPMM) said on Wednesday.

Every one of us is implicated in this war

Every one of us is implicated in this war All of us are morally implicated in this war or Everyone is morally implicated in this war Madeleine Bunting Guardian News Service London 2. LANE -- Iraq and Indonesia's "fruitless" policies 2 X 21 Iraq and Indonesia's 'fruitless' policies Max Lane Visiting Fellow Center for Asia Pacific Social Transformation Studies (CAPSTRANS) University of Wollongong 3.

Bali deserted for Day of Silence observance

Bali deserted for Day of Silence observance I Wayan Juniartha, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali Bali was uncustomarily calm and tranquil on Wednesday as the predominantly Hindu island celebrated Nyepi, the Hindu Day of Silence, which marked the Saka New Year 1925. During the day, Hindus here are obliged to avoid light, work, traveling outside the family compound and leisure and entertainment activities.

Balinese use artistic spirit to celebrate Nyepi

Balinese use artistic spirit to celebrate Nyepi I Wayan Juniartha and Wahyoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali For years, the making and the noisy parade of ogoh-ogoh, or giant papier-mache dolls, has been the main activity of Balinese youths during the weeks before the celebration of the Hindu Saka New Year known as Nyepi.

U.S. offers 'regrets' over mounting civilian casualties

U.S. offers 'regrets' over mounting civilian casualties Agencies, Baghdad/Miami The United States expressed "regret" at the shooting deaths of seven women and children at a U.S. roadblock in Iraq, as dozens more civilians were reported killed in U.S.-British airstrikes. Mounting civilian casualties on Tuesday stoked international unease at the U.S.-led war, already high after seven women and children were shot dead at a U.S. checkpoint in Central Iraq.

Iraq war sets Tintin's canvas ablaze

Iraq war sets Tintin's canvas ablaze Yusuf Susilo Hartono, Contributor, Jakarta The ongoing U.S.-led aggression against Iraq has sent jitters across the world. Through the footage of Al-Jazeera television station, we in Indonesia can directly witness the drama enacted by those who claim to be champions of human rights. In Indonesia, people have responded in different ways. Mass rallies have been staged in front of the U.S. and British Embassies.

Voter registration started, officers admit making errors

Voter registration started, officers admit making errors M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Becoming a field officer to collect voter data for the 2004 general elections is a new experience for Sunarwati, a resident of Bendungan Hilir, Central Jakarta. Normally a clerk for an integrated health service post, the 36-year-old therefore has to spend more time mastering voter registration procedures.

PKB wins lawsuit over Matori

PKB wins lawsuit over Matori JAKARTA: The Jakarta High Court has ruled in favor of the National Awakening Party (PKB)'s chairman Alwi Shihab and advisory chairman Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid against the party's former chairman Matori Abdul Djalil, a lawyer said on Wednesday. The court ruled that the dismissal of Matori, who is the Minister of Defense, and PKB legislator Abdul Kholiq Ahmad was legitimate.

Cineplex 21 rapped for practicing monopoly

Cineplex 21 rapped for practicing monopoly Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) has ordered the owner of Cineplex 21 network to reduce its share in the movie theater business in Surabaya, East Java, because it has violated Law No. 5/1999 on unhealthy business competition.

BPK uncovers Rp 20 billion in irregularities at KAI

BPK uncovers Rp 20 billion in irregularities at KAI Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung, West Java The Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) has found corruption totaling Rp 20 billion (about US$2.2 million) during a special audit of PT Kereta Api Indonesia's (PT KAI) controversial spare parts purchasing in Bandung and Yogyakarta during 2001 and 2002. BPK has called on State Minister of State Enterprises Laksamana Sukardi to act.

Is 'post-Kantian' order beginning to emerge?

Is 'post-Kantian' order beginning to emerge? Bantarto Bandoro, Editor, 'The Indonesian Quarterly', Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta, bandoro@csis.or.id In an article in this newspaper on March 20, Soedjati Djiwandono wrote that the war on Iraq could lead to a new world order, a multipolar one without a single major power occupying a dominant position. In this new world order, no single power would act unilaterally, especially in military terms.

JP/7/RIZA

JP/7/RIZA World waits for U.S. pledge after the war Riza Sihbudi Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) Jakarta The United Nations (UN) Security Council finally held its emergency meeting on March 27, following strong pressure from the Arab League and the Non-Aligned Movement. Indonesia was among those UN member countries which actively pushed for an open emergency meeting, one in which all UN members could participate, to debate the U.S.-led aggression against Iraq.

RI should look beyond the war and support UN

RI should look beyond the war and support UN Jusuf Wanandi, Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta Indonesia's strong disapproval of the war by the U.S. against Saddam Hussein is not based on Muslim solidarity but is a matter of principle and Indonesia's own interests. The war has not been sanctioned by the United Nations. It is seen by nearly all Indonesians as a war that is not necessary.

S. Korea condemns U.S. punitive duties on Hynix

S. Korea condemns U.S. punitive duties on Hynix Park Chan-Kyong, Agence France Presse, Seoul South Korea on Wednesday condemned a U.S. decision to impose punitive duties on ailing computer chipmaker Hynix Semiconductor, threatening action at the World Trade Organization (WTO). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it "deeply regretted" the U.S.

Defending global essentials: Notes from Kyoto

Defending global essentials: Notes from Kyoto 1 X 38 defend Defending global property Yanuar Nugroho Director, The Business Watch Indonesia Lecturer, Sahid University, Surakarta Researcher, Uni Sosial Demokrat, Jakarta yanuar-n@unisosdem.org 2. Riza -- Impact of U.S. aggression in Iraq 1 X 30 Impact of U.S. aggression in Iraq Riza Sihbudi Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) Jakarta 3. Pro -- Between Pax Americana and Pax Africana 2 X 21 Between Pax Americana and Pax Africana Ali A.

'Gross human rights abuse took place in May riots'

'Gross human rights abuse took place in May riots' Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The National Commission on Human Rights declared on Tuesday that gross human rights violations had occurred during massive riots in Jakarta in May 1998, which preceded the fall of long- time ruler Soeharto.

Thousands of Aceh students may miss national exams

Thousands of Aceh students may miss national exams Nani Farida, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh Despite the peace accord, thousands of Acehnese students in Bireuen may not be able to sit national examinations in May because they have been forced to abandon their villages due to the worsening security situation in the regency.

NGOs move to save peace agreement in Aceh

NGOs move to save peace agreement in Aceh Nani Farida and Tiarma Siboro The Jakarta Post Banda Aceh/Jakarta Activists representing 41 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Aceh have launched a month-long campaign to save the five- month-old peace agreement that has nearly ended almost three decades of armed conflict there. Risman A.

AJI rebukes summoning of journalists over defamation case

AJI rebukes summoning of journalists over defamation case The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) on Tuesday expressed its full support for journalists in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, who have refused to comply with a police summons to testify in a defamation case involving the police and noted businessman Tomy Winata.

LIPI against limitation on candidates

LIPI against limitation on candidates Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Researchers from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) are calling on the House of Representatives (DPR) to allow all political parties contesting the 2004 elections to nominate their own presidential candidates. They also suggested that legislative and presidential elections be organized all at the same time.

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~ ;JP; ANPAv..r.. Photo-spot-light Photo caption checked by Melinda FOR SPOTLIGHT for THURSDAY HSBC BUSINESS BANKING LAUNCH: HSBC executives share a light moment after a press conference for the launch of Business Banking -- a one-stop solution service for its customers.

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;JP;zph; ANPAf..r.. Rupiah-conversion-rates Rupiah Rates April 1 JP/13/13Rupiah Rupiah Rates April 1 Bank notes rates TT rates Selling Buying Selling Buying Rp Rp Rp Rp Australian dollar 1 5,693.45 5,083.95 5,418.04 5,359.13 Brunei dollar 1 5,326.46 4,757.48 5,068.80 5,015.00 Canadian dollar 1 6,406.92 5,723.82 6,097.00 6,033.64 Swiss franc 1 6,952.47 6,211.02 6,616.16 6,547.21 Danish krone 1 1,381.51 1,234.25 1,314.68 1,301.06 Euro 1 10,262.89 9,163.38 9,766.44 9,659.38 Poundsterling 1...

Manokwari earthquake victims still homeless

Manokwari earthquake victims still homeless Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua Despite its massive natural gas wealth, hundreds of residents of Manokwari, Papua are living in temporary homes made of palm leaves and children, when they are not sick, attend outdoor schools after a earthquake struck last October. The quake, which measured 7.6 on the Richter scale and killed 15 people and injured dozens of others, left 300 families in Sabri village homeless.

Caltex workers threaten to strike

Caltex workers threaten to strike PEKANBARU, Riau: Thousands of field workers of American mining company PT Caltex Pacific Indonesia (CPI) threatened on Tuesday to go strike if the management went ahead with its decision to cut the days off in the company. The spokesman for the CPI workers union (SPNC), Kusno Teguh, said the workers employed in oil wells would go strike as of Wednesday until the management reviewed the decision.

KL to open antiterror center

KL to open antiterror center MALAYSIA: Kuala Lumpur will go ahead with plans to set up an antiterrorism center in partnership with the United States despite its objections to the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, parliament was told on Wednesday. Deputy defense minister Mohd Shafie Apdal said the planned Southeast Asia Center for Counter-Terrorism would benefit Malaysia in many ways, including training and the transfer of the latest technology and expertise as well as the exchange of information.

Stop the war

Stop the war From Media Indonesia The U.S. has invaded Iraq, which has created very unfavorable circumstances for Indonesia to escape its economic crisis. The disrupted flows of people and goods will affect tourism and the real sector, while the country badly needs the development of these areas for job creation. At present, over 40 million Indonesians are in need of proper employment.

headings

headings 1. Aceh: 10 x 4 lines: Thousands of Aceh students may miss national exams 2. KAI: 20 x 2 lines BPK uncovers Rp 20 billion in irregularities at KAI 3. Gempa: 30 x 1 line Manokwari quake victims still homeless

Iraq and Indonesia's 'fruitless' policies

Iraq and Indonesia's 'fruitless' policies Max Lane, Visiting Fellow, Center for Asia Pacific Social Transformation Studies (CAPSTRANS), University of Wollongong, Australia Todung Mulya Lubis makes some sensible points in his interview with The Jakarta Post on March 31. For example, he is correct to question the usefulness of a boycott of American goods -- at least, at this point of time. The anti-war movement in the United States itself has not yet called for such a boycott.

Tiny party joins PPP

Tiny party joins PPP JAKARTA: The Umat Sovereign Party (PKU) will merge with the United Development Party (PPP) so as to contest the 2004 general election, an official said on Tuesday. "We have decided to merge with the PPP," PKU chairman Asnawi Latief said after a meeting with Vice President Hamzah Haz, who chairs the PPP, on Tuesday. Quoting Hamzah, Asnawi said the fusion was strategic and politically valuable, not only for Muslim-based parties in general but to the two parties in particular.

KL must boost competitiveness

KL must boost competitiveness KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has to make its corporate sector more competitive and draw in more foreign investment to sustain its economic growth, Moody's Investors Service said on Wednesday. In its annual report, Moody's maintained its Baa1 rating and stable outlook for Malaysia, citing an improved external financial position and a resilient electronics sector in the face of global volatility.

Roh says no stimulus for economy

Roh says no stimulus for economy SEOUL: President Roh Moo-Hyun on Wednesday ruled out a stimulus package for South Korea's slowing economy, saying the step could trigger negative side-effects such as higher consumer and real estate prices. "The economy is in a difficult situation. But the government will not take any short-term stimulus steps as it will trigger higher consumer prices and real estate prices," he said in a speech to the National Assembly.

Bapepam, KPPU agree to fight monopolies

Bapepam, KPPU agree to fight monopolies Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) and the Capital Market Supervisory Agency (Bapepam) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Thursday to cooperate in curbing unfair business competition in the capital market. The agreement is aimed at ensuring that share acquisitions and mergers will not lead to the creation of monopolies in local economic sectors.

War and SARS adversely affecting tourism: BPS

War and SARS adversely affecting tourism: BPS A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The current war in Iraq coupled with the outbreak of a potentially deadly pneumonia-like disease, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), are threatening the country's tourist industry, which is still struggling to recover from the impact of the Oct. 12 Bali terrorist attack, the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) said.

Kendari mayor, deputy sworn in

Kendari mayor, deputy sworn in KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: Southeast Sulawesi Governor Ali Mazi swore in Lukman Abunawas as the new mayor of Kendari and Tony Herbiansyah as his deputy despite allegations of bribery. Many city's residents have opposed the installment because they alleged the two were involved in money politics during the recent elections.

39 dead following heavy rain in Kupang

39 dead following heavy rain in Kupang Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara Major floods and landslides in Ende and East Flores regencies, East Nusa Tenggara, had claimed 39 lives as of Wednesday, while several other people were reported missing following the heavy rain that had been drenching the area since Monday.

40 NGOs fight for peace in Aceh

40 NGOs fight for peace in Aceh BANDA ACEH, Aceh: Some 40 non-governmental organizations launched a coalition at the office of the Joint Security Committee (JSC) in the city to fight for peace in the province. Before the declaration, a number of activists gave speeches opposing violence and calling for rebels and security personnel to comply with the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed last December.

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, April 3, 2003

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, April 3, 2003 Exhibitions * Painting, Bali Christian Art Association, by artist like I Gd Sukana Kariana, I Komang Wahyu S, I Gd Yosef C, Darsane, Ni Ketut Ayu Sri Wardani, Koniherawati, I Ketut Lasia, I Nyoman Darsane, & Tina Bailey, at Galeri GKI Denpasar, Jl. Raya Puputan 108, 2nd Floor, Renon Denpasar, until April 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. * Painting, Dream Land, by Made Wianta, Bali's Contemporary Art Space, at Gaya Fusion Of Senses, Jl.

Police hunt for credit card forgers

Police hunt for credit card forgers JAKARTA: City police detectives are pursuing two Taiwanese citizens who are allegedly members of a syndicate involved in credit card forgery and fraud, an officer said on Tuesday. Spokesman Sr. Comr. Prasetyo told reporters that police officers had arrested one other suspect involved, Chen Chih Wei, 31, alias Chen Chih Hsiung or Andi also from Taiwan.

Fakta to file class action against water charge hikes

Fakta to file class action against water charge hikes Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Jakarta Residents Forum (Fakta) will establish a team to accommodate people who want to join a class action lawsuit against the city administration and water operators over the 40 percent increase in water rates on Tuesday. "We are inviting the people to lodge their complaints on the increase," Fakta Chairman Azas Tigor Nainggolan told The Jakarta Post Tuesday.

NGOs struggle to salvage Aceh peace accord

NGOs struggle to salvage Aceh peace accord Nani Farida and Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh/Jakarta Activists representing 41 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Aceh have launched a month-long campaign to save the five- month-old peace agreement that has nearly ended almost three decades of armed conflict there. Risman A.

Two suspected rebels killed in Aceh: Indonesian Military (TNI)

Two suspected rebels killed in Aceh: Indonesian Military (TNI) soldiers have shot dead two suspected rebels in troubled Aceh province, the police said on Wednesday. The two Free Aceh Movement (GAM) rebels were shot dead early Wednesday after they attacked soldiers who were investigating reports of blackmail by GAM in the Limpok area of Pidie district, said city police chief, Adj. Sr. Comr. Alfons Toluhula. Soldiers confiscated an automatic rifle from the scene.

Woolcott's 'Hot Seat'

Woolcott's 'Hot Seat' The veteran Australian senior diplomat, my good friend Ambassador Richard "Dick" Woolcott, has published a most interesting memoir. His book: Hot Seat -- Reflections in Diplomacy from Stalin's Death to the Bali Bombing, published by HarperCollins Publishing, was launched in a festive manner in early March, in Sydney. Unfortunately, the book contains an erroneous reference of a serious nature about The Jakarta Post daily.

Voter registration begins at Mega's house

Voter registration begins at Mega's house Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Voter registration for the 2004 general election and the national census kicked off on Tuesday amid concerns over the limited time the National Elections Commission (KPU) has to prepare for the event, which is held once every five years.

Corruption and the 2004 elections

Corruption and the 2004 elections From Koran Tempo I am very concerned by a statement made by the coordinator of the Indonesian Corruption Watch, Teten Marzuki, in a number of dailies on March 19. Teten said political corruption was expected to increase ahead of the 2004 general election. He said this corruption would be triggered by economically motivated politicians raising money by hook or by crook to help their parties win the elections.

'I don't care about the general election'

'I don't care about the general election' The registration of voters for the 2004 general election started on Tuesday. According to the General Elections Commission (KPU), there are around 130 million eligible voters nationwide. However, not all people are aware of the month-long program. The Jakarta Post talked to some of them in connection with the registration and the upcoming general election. Eman Suleman, 30, is married with one son and runs a food stall in Senayan, Central Jakarta.

PKB wins lawsuit over Matori

PKB wins lawsuit over Matori JAKARTA: The Jakarta High Court has ruled in favor of the National Awakening Party (PKB)'s chairman Alwi Shihab and advisory chairman Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid against the party's former chairman Matori Abdul Djalil, a lawyer said on Wednesday. The court ruled that the dismissal of Matori, who is the Minister of Defense, and PKB legislator Abdul Kholiq Ahmad was legitimate.

Another blast in Medan

Another blast in Medan MEDAN, North Sumatra: Following a bomb blast that damaged three cars at Medan mayor's office on Monday, another homemade bomb exploded in Labuhan Deli, more than 20 kilometers north of the city early on Tuesday, near a gas pipeline. Another bomb planted directly below a liquefied gas pipeline did not explode. The spokesman for the North Sumatra Police, Adj. Sr. Comr.

Myanmar's political dialogue stalled yet

Myanmar's political dialogue stalled yet Kavi Chongkittavorn, The Nation, Asia News Network, Bangkok The war in Iraq has had a great dampening effect on the future prospects of the reconciliation process in Burma. The Burmese junta leaders know full well that world attention is no longer focused on their ongoing suppression of the Burmese people. The much-heralded release of opposition party leader Aung San Suu Kyi last May has remained only a gesture.

RTM targets 40 percent growth

RTM targets 40 percent growth Information technology solutions provider RTM Group has targeted to post revenue of US$30 million this year, an increase of 40 percent from that of last year. RTM Group Director Lasman Citra said on Saturday that demands for IT infrastructure, applications and solutions have continued to rise despite the fact that the economy is slowing down.

Idris Sardi to make a comeback

Idris Sardi to make a comeback JAKARTA: Idris Sardi, Indonesia's best-known violinist, will take center stage in Jakarta in June, almost 10 years after his retirement, his publicist said on Tuesday. Sardi's last concert was on Aug. 9, 1994 when he performed for the 29th anniversary of Kompas daily. He called it his "farewell concert". His planned concert on June 18, 2003 at Sahid Jaya Hotel, Jakarta, will mark his 65th birthday and 50 years in the profession.

Idris Sardi to make a comeback

Idris Sardi to make a comeback JAKARTA: Idris Sardi, Indonesia's best-known violinist, will take center stage in Jakarta in June, almost 10 years after his retirement, his publicist said on Tuesday. Sardi's last concert was on Aug. 9, 1994 when he performed for the 29th anniversary of Kompas daily. He called it his "farewell concert". His planned concert on June 18, 2003 at Sahid Jaya Hotel, Jakarta, will mark his 65th birthday and 50 years in the profession.

Frequently asked questions on the deadly SARS virus

Frequently asked questions on the deadly SARS virus Reuters, Hong Kong A deadly pneumonia-like virus spreading across the world has killed 62 people and infected more than 1,700 others, mainly in Asia. Following are facts about the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), a type of atypical pneumonia, and what medical experts are saying about it: * What is it? Scientists say SARS is caused by a new virus from the family of coronaviruses, which also causes the common cold. The U.S.

Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A mysterious respiratory disease and the war in Iraq have dealt a double blow to Indonesia's airline industry, causing a significant drop in passenger numbers and a sharp rise in operational costs. The president of the country's flag carrier Garuda Indonesia, Indra Setiawan, said the airline industry was expecting lower revenue as a result of the Iraq war and the outbreak of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

SARS could hurt Asia growth more than Iraq war

SARS could hurt Asia growth more than Iraq war Alan Yonan Jr., Dow Jones, Singapore The fallout from severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) could do more damage to Asian economic growth this year than the war in Iraq, an international brokerage warned on Wednesday as the number of infections continued to grow in the region.

SARS declared a national epidemic threat

SARS declared a national epidemic threat The Jakarta Post, Jakarta At least five alleged cases of the potentially fatal disease known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) have been reported in Indonesia, prompting the government to declare SARS a national epidemic threat. In a bid to prevent SARS from spreading further around the country, Minister of Health Achmad Sujudi is expected to issue a ministerial decree on Thursday to implement Law No. 4/1984 on epidemic diseases.

Defending the global commons:

Defending the global commons: Notes from Kyoto Forum Yanuar Nugroho Director The Business Watch Indonesia Surakarta, Central Java yanuar-n@unisosdem.org While 1.1 billion people do not have access to safe drinking water and almost 2.4 billion do not have adequate sanitation, according to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), only 1.6 percent of development assistance is spent on providing water and sanitation services.

Consumer confidence tumbles to historic low, Danareksa says

Consumer confidence tumbles to historic low, Danareksa says The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The country's consumer confidence tumbled to a "historic" low in February on discontentment at the government's inability to boost strong economic growth, which would generate adequate employment opportunities, Danareksa Research Institute said.

Play dominoes, go to jail

Play dominoes, go to jail BEKASI: Bekasi subprecinct police confirmed on Tuesday the arrest of a group of reporters from a local tabloid who were allegedly gambling in the Bulak Kapal area late on Monday. The police declined to reveal their identities, saying that the intelligence unit caught "O.S. and his gang" playing dominoes with money as bet. The police seized the domino cards and the money for evidence. The police chief Sr. Comr.

Crisis tests Sumita Tobing and 'TVRI'

Crisis tests Sumita Tobing and 'TVRI' Tony Ryanto, Contributor, Jakarta The financial crisis hitting TVRI is putting Sumita Tobing's leadership to the test. Tobing, the 56-year-old TVRI president director, is known as a woman of substance who never says no to a challenge, no matter how tough it may be. She is doing everything to keep her cool.

'Tempo' journalists questioned

'Tempo' journalists questioned JAKARTA: Three journalists from the Tempo weekly newsmagazine were questioned by police on Tuesday as witnesses in the alleged libel case reported by tycoon Tomy Winata. Police interrogated Achmad Taufiq, Bernada Rurid and Cahyo as part of the investigation of chief editor Bambang Harymurti. The weekly wrote on March 3 that Tomy was interested in renovating the Tanah Abang market in Central Jakarta, which was razed by fire recently.

'Tempo' journalists questioned

'Tempo' journalists questioned JAKARTA: Three journalists from the Tempo weekly newsmagazine were questioned by police on Tuesday as witnesses in the alleged libel case reported by tycoon Tomy Winata. Police interrogated Achmad Taufiq, Bernada Rurid and Cahyo as part of the investigation of chief editor Bambang Harymurti. The weekly wrote on March 3 that Tomy was interested in renovating the Tanah Abang market in Central Jakarta, which was razed by fire recently.

People worried over SARS doubt hospital capabilites

People worried over SARS doubt hospital capabilites Sari P. Setiogi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta People in Jakarta are now starting to worry about the possible spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in the city, with most people doubting whether Indonesian hospitals would be capable of dealing with a major outbreak. Enny, a housewife, said that she was very worried about the disease. "What should I do if suddenly my husband or my children get SARS?

Ex-BI director sentenced to three years for graft

Ex-BI director sentenced to three years for graft Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After a trial lasting around one year, the Central Jakarta District Court sentenced on Tuesday former Bank Indonesia (BI) director Hendrobudiyanto to three years behind bars for abuse of power in disbursing liquidity support funds totaling Rp 9.8 trillion (US$1.1 billion).

JP/ /

JP/ / Old and new water charges Customers Old charges ! New charges ---------------------------- Group I 375 ! 375 Group II 375 ! 375 Group IIIA 1,035 - 1,560 ! 1,449 - 2,184 Group IIIB 1,335 - 2,100 ! 1,869 - 2,940 Group IVA 2,500 - 3,500 ! 3,500 - 3,900 Group VIB 5,200 - 6,800 ! 7,280 - 9,580 Special group 7,000 !

Jailing tax evaders

Jailing tax evaders The Directorate General of Taxation will soon be able to put its money where its mouth is under a joint decree of the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Justice and Human Rights that allows for the jailing of uncooperative taxpayers for a maximum one year without prior trial.

Woolcott's

Woolcott's 'Hot Seat' The veteran Australian senior diplomat, my good friend Ambassador Richard "Dick" Woolcott, has published a most interesting memoir. His book: Hot Seat -- Reflections in Diplomacy from Stalin's Death to the Bali Bombing, published by HarperCollins Publishing, was launched in a festive manner in early March, in Sydney. Unfortunately, the book contains an erroneous reference of a serious nature about The Jakarta Post daily.

Children's state of health static, says Minister Sujudi

Children's state of health static, says Minister Sujudi Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta No improvement has been made in the overall health condition of children in the country as the economic crisis has plunged most of the population into poverty, Minister of Health Achmad Sujudi said.

List of Securities Quotation:

List of Securities Quotation: Day/Date:Tuesday, April 1, 2003 Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on April 1, 2003: -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shares Close Change Trading Volume -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 550 0 0 Adindo Foresta 50 0 0 AGIS Tbk 45 -5 2,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 125 0 0 Alakasa Industrindo 105 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 700 0 0 Alter...

VP defends paramilitary groups

VP defends paramilitary groups JAKARTA: Vice President Hamzah Haz said that the paramilitary groups affiliated to the various political parties were necessary, but they needed to change their military-style approach to a moral one. Hamzah, chairman of the United Development Party (PPP), said on Tuesday that such groups had to avoid violence in achieving their objectives.

A day of silence

A day of silence Amid the turmoil that is currently pervading this country and the world, the Balinese and other Indonesians who adhere to the Hindu Dharma faith across the archipelago, will tomorrow, on April 2, once again be observing Nyepi -- that special day that most international tourists to the island know as the Hindu (Balinese) "day of silence".

Muslim hard-liner abducted, son says

Muslim hard-liner abducted, son says JAKARTA: Abu Jihad alias Tengku Fauzi Hazdi Geudong, dubbed the Southeast Asian leader of the terrorist network al Qaeda, has been abducted, his son said on Tuesday. "We have identified those who took my father away. We have early indications that some police personnel were involved (in the abduction)," Abu Jihad's son Tengku Lamkaruna Putra told reporters on Tuesday at National Police Headquarters.

Indonesians' discipline

Indonesians' discipline Can Indonesians hold orderly street demonstrations? The answer is yes. That is what happened on Sunday when about one million people marched to protest against U.S. aggression against Iraq. It was labeled as the biggest street demonstration ever in the history of the Republic. What was amazing was that women felt safe enough to bring their babies and children along to participate. Demonstrations, part of democracy, is a legal form of expressing opinions.

February exports decline by 0.85 percent: BPS

February exports decline by 0.85 percent: BPS A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia's exports in February declined by 0.85 percent to US$4.88 billion from $4.92 billion in January, the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) reported. BPS warned that exports in the coming months would continue to decline due to the war in Iraq.

LIPI against limitation on candidates

LIPI against limitation on candidates Researchers from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) are calling on the House of Representatives (DPR) to allow all political parties contesting the 2004 elections to nominate their own presidential candidates. They also suggested that legislative and presidential elections be organized all at the same time. 2.

ADB grants RI $1m for clean water

ADB grants RI $1m for clean water JAKARTA: The Asian Development Bank said on Wednesday it had approved a US$1 million technical assistance grant to develop community water services and health projects in Indonesia. In a statement made available to The Jakarta Post, the Bank said the projects would help the government develop schemes to improve the health and the quality of life of people in poor rural and semi-urban communities.

Headings

Headings 1. SURA: 24 x 1 line Surabaya legislature leadership dismissed 2. Nyepi: 30 x 1 line Balinese prepare Nyepi rituals for recovery

1. DISCOURSE: 1 x 50

1. DISCOURSE: 1 x 50 Return of peace to Iraq must be under UN auspices 2. ELECTION: 1 x 40 Voter registration begins at Mega's house 3. HENDRO: 2 x 30 Ex-BI director sentenced to three years for graft 4. SLIDE: 1 x 40 39 dead following heavy rain in Kupang 5. TOUR: 1 x 44 War, SARS adversely affecting tourism: BPS 6. ODD: 1 x 30 Italians get 'Love Car Park'

Policeman mobbed in Cikokol

Policeman mobbed in Cikokol TANGERANG: A Balaraja Police officer was rushed to the Tangerang General Hospital after a number of traders and motorcycle taxi (ojek) drivers mobbed him in the Cikokol main market on Jl. Sudirman on Wednesday morning. Sahidin, an eyewitness, said that the passengers of an Asli bus, which serves the Kalideres-Balaraja route and was passing through the market, shouted when they saw the officer, identified as Second Brig.