Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 June 2003

88 articles found

Councillors stay at hotel prior to election

Councillors stay at hotel prior to election KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: Thirty-eight East Nusa Tenggara councillors have been put up at hotels for three days prior to the election of the province's governor and deputy governor. The head of the Golkar Party faction, Melkianus Adoe, told The Jakarta Post on Monday that 20 councillors from the Golkar Party and 18 from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) were being housed at several star-rated hotels in Kupang.

Oyong, Irawadi resign over controversial funds transfer

Oyong, Irawadi resign over controversial funds transfer Musthofid, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Oyong Karmayudha and Irawadi D. Hanafi resigned from their respective positions as the secretary-general and deputy treasurer of the National Sports Council (KONI) on Monday following their involvement in an "unethical transfer of funds".

RI tells Australia to quit supporting separatists

RI tells Australia to quit supporting separatists Agence France-Presse, Canberra Indonesia urged the Australian government on Monday to crack down on locally based supporters of independence groups in the provinces of Papua and Aceh. Indonesian charge d'affaires in Canberra, Imron Cotan, also told a parliamentary inquiry into Australia's relations with Jakarta that Australian aid money was being used by aid groups to support Papuan separatists. "I ...

1. KPU -- 48pt Bodoni Bold 2/4 (4x10)

1. KPU -- 48pt Bodoni Bold 2/4 (4x10) Limited funds may delay Panwaslu inauguration 2. INFORM -- 36pt Bodoni Bold 3/2 (2x24) Press bodies want single bill on information, state secrecy 3. AIR -- 36pt Bodoni Bold 5/1 (1x38) Air quality in major cities continues to worsen 4. PAPUA -- 36pt Bodoni Bold 5/1 (1x38) Govt urged to win hearts of Papuan people 5. HARTONO -- 30pt Bodoni Bold 2/2 (2x22) Politician Hartono Mardjono stays true to form to the end

ASEAN's noninterference principle to be tested

ASEAN's noninterference principle to be tested Bantarto Bandoro, Editor, 'The Indonesian Quarterly', Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta, bandoro@csis.or.id Foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are convening for their annual meeting in Phnom Penh. The meeting takes place at the height of political problems occurring in Myanmar.

Nessen renews his intention to leave Aceh unhindered

Nessen renews his intention to leave Aceh unhindered The Jakarta Post, Jakarta American freelance journalist William Nessen, who is currently covering the war in Aceh from the rebel side, has reiterated his intention to leave Aceh peacefully without being stopped by the Indonesian Military (TNI). Although he failed to heed the 6 p.m.

Air quality in major cities continues to worsen

Air quality in major cities continues to worsen Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Air pollution in major cities in Indonesia has been worsening in the past few years due to increasing levels of pollutants mainly emanating from motorized vehicles, the government has said. The deputy to the state minister of the environment, Imam Hendargo, said the increasing vehicular exhaust emission had caused a major decline in the quality of air.

Myanmar must respond to int'l demands: RI

Myanmar must respond to int'l demands: RI Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Phnom Penh Indonesia underlined the need for the Myanmar government to respond appropriately to international pressure to release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi from temporary detention.

Limited funds may delay Panwaslu inauguration

Limited funds may delay Panwaslu inauguration A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Due to financial constraints, the Election Supervisory Committee (Panwaslu) may not be able to meet the deadline to inaugurate all election supervisory committees at the regency and district levels, says a Panwaslu member.

RI, Japan to hold investment talks

RI, Japan to hold investment talks TOKYO: The Japanese and Indonesian governments are getting ready to resume negotiations aimed at reaching an investment protection agreement, which have remained stalled since February 2001, the Nihon Keizai Shimbun reported in its Monday morning edition. The two nations are expected to announce the resumption of the talks as early as Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri's visit to Japan, which begins June 22, the report said.

RI deploys F-16s in Aceh war

RI deploys F-16s in Aceh war Berni K. Moestafa, The Jakarta Post, Lhokseumawe, Aceh Indonesia's most sophisticated jet fighters dropped bombs and fired rockets at rebel positions on Monday, in their first airstrike during the first month of war against Free Aceh Movement (GAM) units. Monday's airstrike was the first time that the American F-16 Fighting Falcon was used in combat since Indonesia purchased the jets in 1996. First strike force detachment commander Capt.

Where to go in Bandung for Tuesday, June 17, 2003

Where to go in Bandung for Tuesday, June 17, 2003 Performances * Sundanese Drama by Vikta group, Gedung Kesenian Rumentang Siang, Jl. Baranang Siang 1, Kosambi (Tel. 022 4233562), 8 p.m., June 21. * Dance Drama Angling Darma by Studio Tari Indra, Taman Budaya Jawa Barat (West Java Cultural Center), Jl. Bukit Dago Selatan no. 53 A (Tel. 022 2504912), 7:30 p.m., June 21. * Bandung Music Fiesta La fete de la musique, CCF - French Cultural Center, Jl. Purnawarman 32 (Tel.

ASEAN lifts moratorium for security forum

ASEAN lifts moratorium for security forum CAMBODIA: ASEAN has lifted a longstanding moratorium on membership to the Asia-Pacific region's top security forum and will push for Pakistan's inclusion, a minister said on Monday. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), comprising Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, is the prime mover of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

Election paraphernalia enlivens Pasar Senen

Election paraphernalia enlivens Pasar Senen Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A burst of color is lending an air of festivity to Senen market in Central Jakarta these days. They are the colors of the attributes of political parties, which are gearing up for the 2004 general election. The fiesta of democracy, as the New Order regime used to call the general elections, is still 10 months away.

The Phnom Penh meeting

The Phnom Penh meeting Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen opened on Monday the two-day annual foreign ministerial meeting of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Phnom Penh. After the meeting, 10 other countries will join ASEAN in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). The guests include the United States, Japan, China, South Korea, North Korea and India.

ASEAN asks Myanmar junta to free Suu Kyi

ASEAN asks Myanmar junta to free Suu Kyi Agencies, Phnom Penh The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Monday told Myanmar to free pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi in an unprecedented rebuke to one of its own. The political troubles in Myanmar - and the international opprobrium its military rulers are attracting - dominated the first day of meetings held by ASEAN's 10 foreign ministers in the Cambodian capital.

Does patriotic journalism really exist?

Does patriotic journalism really exist? Ignatius Haryanto, Vice Executive Director, Institute for Press and Development Studies (LSPP), Jakarta Can journalism be categorized as patriotic or unpatriotic? Media is an information tool, and is provided by people who must serve their readers, or viewers with information. It is not the journalists' problem, whether the news they write or air will benefit one party or many. Since each has his or her own interests, the media itself cannot satisfy all.

Amendment of law on BI delayed

Amendment of law on BI delayed Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government acknowledged on Monday that some contentious issues on the proposed amendment of the central bank law remain unsettled. This was apparently the reason why the passage of the bill on the amendment, initially scheduled for Monday, had been delayed indefinitely by the House of Representatives, as its special committee in charge of the matter had requested additional time to settle the unfinished issues.

Mountain festival enjoys success

Mountain festival enjoys success JP/Tarko Sudiarno The Five Mounts Festival received warm applause from locals, and was also graced with the attendance of big names including poet W.S. Rendra, intellectual/Catholic priest Sindhunata and noted dancer Eko Supriyanto. The festival was held from Sunday to Monday at Warangan village at the foot of Mount Merbabu in Magelang, Central Java.

TV Program: Tuesday, June 17, 2003

TV Program: Tuesday, June 17, 2003 TVRI .TB.30" .90" 5:00 a.m. Religious Teachings 6:00 News: Berita Pagi 7:00 English News Service 9:00 Music 11:00 News: Berita Daerah 11:30 Music: Konteswara 12:00 p.m.

1. INSIGHT: 1 x 52

1. INSIGHT: 1 x 52 ASEAN's noninterference principle to be tested 2. ASEAN: 1 x 40 ASEAN gives green light to RI proposal 3. PERTAMINA: 3 x 22 House urges government to prosecute those plundering Pertamina 4. BALI: 1 x 46 Australian survivors recall the Bali bombing 5.6. ODD: 1 x 35 Brothel offers discount for pensioners 6. ODD: 1 x 35 Donkey becomes taxi in Albania

Mandiri's glittering IPO campaign raises concern

Mandiri's glittering IPO campaign raises concern Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Bank Mandiri's IPO glittering campaign has raised the concern of a corporate governance watchdog, which says the public needs to be informed not only about the benefits of investing in the country's largest bank but also about the risks.

Pardede installed despite controversy

Pardede installed despite controversy Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan, North Sumatra Minister of Home Affairs Hari Sabarno oversaw the inauguration on Monday for governor-elect T. Rizal Nurdin and deputy Rudolf Pardede despite the ongoing investigation of the latter, who allegedly has a fake high school diploma. Speaking after the inauguration, Hari said that Pardede would be held responsible if he is found guilty.

'That thick black smoke indicates a sick engine'

'That thick black smoke indicates a sick engine' The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Although motorists are aware that vehicle emissions are a major cause of air pollution, only a few people really care about minimizing their contribution to the environmental problem. Benito, a resident of Tangerang, said he had never put his car through an emissions test. "What for?

Students protest Megawati's visit

Students protest Megawati's visit PALEMBANG, South Sumatra: About 1,000 university students clashed with security forces on Monday when they protested President Megawati Soekarnoputri's visit to the city. Seven students were injured and 15 others were arrested for disturbing public order, while a truck carrying students was damaged in the clash.

Thai economy defies SARS to grow 6.7 percent in Q-1

Thai economy defies SARS to grow 6.7 percent in Q-1 Agence France-Presse, Bangkok Thailand's economy defied the SARS crisis to grow 6.7 percent in the first quarter, a much stronger than expected performance that prompted authorities to raise the 2003 forecast by a full percentage point to 4.5-5.5 percent on Monday.

Australian survivors recall the Bali bombing

Australian survivors recall the Bali bombing Wahyoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali In a touching testimony here on Monday, three Australians gave the judges in the trial of main Bali bombing suspect Amrozi a glimpse at the torment the blasts inflicted on people of neighboring Australia. Out of the 202 innocent lives taken in the brutal terrorist attack, 88 were Australian. It sent a chill through the nation, whose people had for decades considered Bali their second home.

Jakarta Air Quality from 2000-2002

Jakarta Air Quality from 2000-2002 --------------------------------------- Category 2000 2001 2002 (%) (%) (%) --------------------------------------- Dangerous 0 0 0 Very Unhealthy 0 0.27 0.85 Unhealthy 0 8.49 31.23 Moderate 74.00 72.05 62.19 Good 26.00 20.55 5.75 ---------------------------------------- Source: Jakarta Environmental Management Agency (BPLHD). Note: Dangerous: Air pollution level can seriously affect human health.

BRI names underwriters

BRI names underwriters JAKARTA: PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) said it had named UBS Warburg and PT Bahana Securities as joint lead underwriters for its initial public offering (IPO), which is scheduled for the second half of 2003. It has also named UBS as lead underwriter for its subordinated dollar bonds, the bank said in a statement.

No flights means no tourists

No flights means no tourists MATARAM, West Nusa Tenggara: The local provincial administration has blame the lack of flights connecting Jakarta and Mataram for its Rp 2 billion (US$243,902.5) financial loss due to the cancellation of visits by 400 foreign tourists last month. Head of the provincial culture and tourism agency Machfud Ahmad said on Monday that the tourists canceled their visits to Mataram as there were no direct flights from Jakarta.

Toward the end of Indonesian-IMF ties

Toward the end of Indonesian-IMF ties The Indonesian people have been eagerly awaiting whether or not the government would end its ties with the Washington-based International Monetary Fund (IMF). Some quarters have said that if the government extends its cooperation with the Fund, Jakarta would likely be trapped again in the foreign money lender's interests. However, if Indonesia ends its ties with the IMF, is Jakarta ready to anticipate another economic crisis without the IMF's help?

Damanik sentenced to three years

Damanik sentenced to three years The district court in Palu, Central Sulawesi, sentenced a church minister to three years in prison for the illegal possession of arms and ammunition. A panel of judges presided over by I Nyoman Somanada said Rev. Rinaldy Damanik who was charged with violating Article 55 of Law No.

1. AIR: 1 LINE, 38 COUNTS

1. AIR: 1 LINE, 38 COUNTS Quality of Jakarta's air plummets or How clean is the air that we breathe? 2. DRIVE: 2 LINES, 27 COUNTS Jakarta vehicle owners ignorant about emission test or 'That thick black smoke indicates a sick engine' or Emission test reflects overall condition of engine 3. TIPS: 1 LINE, 20 COUNTS How to keep exhaust emissions low

ASEAN gives green light to RI proposal

ASEAN gives green light to RI proposal Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Phnom Penh Indonesia has received a green light from the rest of the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) member countries to further discuss the security community concept, proposed during the ministerial meeting here on Monday. Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Hassan Wirayuda said on Monday that all ASEAN members welcomed the idea and suggested more meetings be arranged to deliberate the concept.

1. HAM: 3 x 21

1. HAM: 3 x 21 Threats, criticism heaped on rights body for Aceh report 2. NESSEN: 2 x 28 Nessen renews his intention to leave Aceh unhindered 3. TRIP: 1 x 42 Mega to make historic visit to Bangladesh 4. GPI: 1 x 42 Activist jailed for insulting President 5. AUSSIE: 2 x 25 RI tells Australia to quit supporting separatists

Visitor complain about pollution

Visitor complain about pollution BOGOR: Visitors to the Bogor Botanical Gardens have complained about the pollution from vehicles that enter the compound. "It is no longer comfortable. It is unlike in the past, when it was tranquil and we could breathe fresh air. Now, with many cars entering here, there is lots of dust and vehicle emissions," Yustina, a resident of Cibuluh village in West Bogor, said last week. "A conservation area like this should be free from pollution.

Semen Gresik publishes 2002 results but dispute rages on

Semen Gresik publishes 2002 results but dispute rages on Dow Jones, Jakarta PT Semen Gresik said on Monday its 2002 consolidated net profit fell 16 percent from the previous year to Rp 266.77 billion rupiah (US$32.14 million) - an announcement which could pave the way for local stock market regulators to lift a trading suspension on the company's shares.

Aceh military operation and the nationalist crisis

Aceh military operation and the nationalist crisis Teuku Faizasyah, Ph.D.Candidate on Diplomatic History and Conflict Resolution, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand A concerted effort to restore order to Aceh, including the launch of a military operation to uproot the separatist group, is in progress. Resorting to the military option has been regarded as essential because, as it is often proclaimed, the unity and survival of the Republic of Indonesia is at stake.

Two neglected siblings found dead

Two neglected siblings found dead Arya Abhiseka, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Hendri Sumawan, 46, better known as A Miaw to his neighbors and family, was probably about to prepare a meal for his two mentally ill sisters Chung Moy Hiong, 53, and Chung Yen Siang, 50, one evening. However, he apparently slipped as he was walking down the stairs of the family home to prepare dinner. Miaw's head hit the floor and he was knocked unconscious.

Economic Value for Each Air Pollution Related Health Case

Economic Value for Each Air Pollution Related Health Case Pollutant Health Effect Estimates for 2001 in rupiah PM10 Premature Mortality 92 Restricted Activity Day 17,050 Hospital Admission 823,050 Emergency Room Visits 135,170 Asthma Attacks 24,650 Respiratory Symptoms 11,900 Chronic Bronchitis 57,266 NO2 Respiratory Symptoms 11,900 SO2 Premature Mortality 92,1557,163 Lower Resp. Illness 11,900 Chest discomfort in adult 11,900 **2001 exchange rate Source: Asian Development Bank, 2002

IPNU to discuss future leaders

IPNU to discuss future leaders JAKARTA: The Association of Nahdlatul Ulama Youths (IPNU) is expected to have a national congress on June 19 in which it will invite political leaders to present their opinion on the future national leadership.

Each year there are more that 100 train accidents in the

Each year there are more that 100 train accidents in the country, with 126 accidents in 2000, 132 in 2001 and 217 in 2002, while the number of casualties has steadily increased from 250 in 1999 to 264 in 2000 and 424 in 2002. According to data at PT KAI, the number of train-vehicle collisions in 2000 was 26, in 2001 there were 26 and 2002 in there were 55, while derailments numbered 64 in 2000, decreased to 53 in 2001 and increased to 64 in 2002.

Govt urged to win hearts of Papuan people

Govt urged to win hearts of Papuan people Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The central government should intensify its communication with the international community and win the hearts of Papuan people, instead of employing a military approach, to crush the Free Papua Movement (OPM), according to community and religious leaders in Papua.

Police tried in 'Tempo' case

Police tried in 'Tempo' case Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After being postponed twice, the Central Jakarta District Court finally opened on Monday the hearing of a lawsuit filed by the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) against the police over the attack on the Tempo offices and its journalists.

Brunei postpones plans to sign regional antiterror pact

Brunei postpones plans to sign regional antiterror pact Agence France-Presse, Phnom Penh Brunei put off plans at the last minute on Monday to accede to a Southeast Asian agreement to help combat the terrorism threat in the region, citing legal problems. "We need a little more time due to domestic legal procedures to be resolved," a Brunei official said minutes before the scheduled accession of the kingdom to the Agreement on Information Exchange and Establishment of Communication Procedures.

'Jakarta a nightmare for poor migrants'

'Jakarta a nightmare for poor migrants' Many migrants decided to move to Jakarta to pursue their dream of a wealthy and comfortable life. However, many of those dreams have been quashed as they try to cope with day-to-day survival in the big city. To mark the city's 476th anniversary, some city residents shared with The Jakarta Post how they have experienced life in the city. Asik, 31, is a sidewalk vendor selling hot drinks at Gambir railway station, Central Jakarta.

Prosecutor owns land in protected forest

Prosecutor owns land in protected forest JAKARTA: Head of the Unaaha Prosecutor's Office Tjahya Budiman allegedly owns land in a protected forest in Southeast Sulawesi province, said coordinator for the Coalition Against Corruption (KAK) Erick Lawid on Monday. Erick said that Tjahya illegally possessed a plot of land of between 10 and 40 hectares in a protected forest in Andabia village, Unaaha regency.

1. KEDAI: 1 LINE, 38 COUNTS

1. KEDAI: 1 LINE, 38 COUNTS Yogya's Kedai Kebun mixes art and cuisine 2. SISTERS: 1 LINE, 36 COUNTS Exhibit features work of deaf sisters

PetroVietnam to exploit oil in Malaysia

PetroVietnam to exploit oil in Malaysia HANOI: Vietnam's state-owned oil and gas giant PetroVietnam signed a deal with Malaysia's Petronas and Pertamina of Indonesia to exploit an oil block in Malaysian waters, the company said. The Vietnamese company and Pertamina will each take a 30 percent stake in the block, with Petronas holding the remainder, Dang Huu Tuy, a company spokesman, told AFP. Block SK-305 has a total area of 15,000 square meters and is located off Sarawak, eastern Malaysia.

ARF members urged to work 'seriously' to fight terrorism

ARF members urged to work 'seriously' to fight terrorism Ker Munthit, Associated Press, Phnom Penh Cambodia's prime minister urged Asian and Western countries to work "seriously" to combat rising terrorist threats in Southeast Asia, a region many fear is becoming a breeding ground for Islamic militancy. "Concern for world security ...

1. Aceh -- 5 cols, 1 line, 60pts MB, 25 counts

1. Aceh -- 5 cols, 1 line, 60pts MB, 25 counts RI deploys F-16s in Aceh war 2. AMM -- 5 cols, 1 line, 40 pts MB, 40 counts Suu Kyi, terror dominate ASEAN meeting 3. Crash -- 2 cols, 3 lines, 36pts MB, 51 counts 15 killed in Central Java bus-train collision 4. Myanmar -- 2 cols, 2 lines, 28pts MB, 42 counts Myanmar must respond to int'l demands: RI

1. DUIT (1 x 35)

1. DUIT (1 x 35) Asian monies up; Won at record high 2. LAW (2 x 16) Amendment of law on BI delayed 3. Gresik (2 x 27) Semen Gresik publishes 2002 results but dispute rages on

House urges government to prosecute those plundering Pertamina

House urges government to prosecute those plundering Pertamina Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The House of Representatives urged the Attorney General's Office and the Police to push ahead with the investigation into alleged corruption at state oil and gas company Pertamina, involving some high-profile names.

How clean is the air that we breaths?

How clean is the air that we breaths? Air pollution in Jakarta has been worsening every year. Various efforts to curb the problem have not brought significant results. The Jakarta Post's reporter Damar Harsanto looks into the issue. Bad news for Jakartans. The air that we breathe is harmful to our health and might kill us if no significant measures are taken. This news was conveyed through air pollution data, recorded by six air pollution monitoring stations placed across the capital.

Yogya's Kedai Kebun mixes arts and cuisines

Yogya's Kedai Kebun mixes arts and cuisines Boudewijn Brands, Contributor, Yogyakarta Many educated people would agree that to have self-respect and lead a fulfilled life one does not really have to be a big consumer or wear the hottest brands in fashion. But how does one arrive at that realization? Optimal freedom to live one's life as one wants can be achieved by being self-employed.

'SBI rate ready to fall below 10%'

'SBI rate ready to fall below 10%' The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Bank Indonesia Governor Burhanuddin Abdullah said on Monday that the interest rate on the central bank one-month SBI promissory notes was ready to fall to below 10 percent this week or next week. He said that the lower benchmark rate would allow banks to further cut down lending rates to make borrowing more affordable for the corporate sector. "The market still wants the SBI rate to go down.

IPNU to discuss future leaders

IPNU to discuss future leaders JAKARTA: The Association of Nahdlatul Ulama Youths (IPNU) is expected to have a national congress on June 19 in which it will invite political leaders to present their opinion on the future national leadership.

Economic Value for Each Air Pollution Related Health Case

Economic Value for Each Air Pollution Related Health Case Pollutant Health Effect Estimates for 2001 in rupiah PM10 Premature Mortality 92 Restricted Activity Day 17,050 Hospital Admission 823,050 Emergency Room Visits 135,170 Asthma Attacks 24,650 Respiratory Symptoms 11,900 Chronic Bronchitis 57,266 NO2 Respiratory Symptoms 11,900 SO2 Premature Mortality 92,1557,163 Lower Resp. Illness 11,900 Chest discomfort in adult 11,900 **2001 exchange rate Source: Asian Development Bank, 2002

Lawyers object to charges in Makassar bomb trial

Lawyers object to charges in Makassar bomb trial Andi Hajramurni, The Jakarta Post, Makassar, South Sulawesi Lawyers representing Muchtar Daeng Lau and Muhammad Tang, alias Itang, who were arrested in connection with the Dec. 5, 2002 bombing of a McDonald's outlet in Makassar, objected on Monday to the charges against their clients.

BRI names underwriters

BRI names underwriters JAKARTA: PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) said it had named UBS Warburg and PT Bahana Securities as joint lead underwriters for its initial public offering (IPO), which is scheduled for the second half of 2003. It has also named UBS as lead underwriter for its subordinated dollar bonds, the bank said in a statement.

Robbers steal 2 kg of gold jewelry

Robbers steal 2 kg of gold jewelry TANGERANG: A group of 12 robbers made off with two kilograms of gold jewelry from Sumber Rezeki gold store in a market here on Monday morning after immobilizing three security guards in the market. The men arrived at Swadaya market in Sangiang Jaya subdistrict of Tangerang municipality in two Kijang minivans at around 3 a.m.

Prosecutor owns land in protected forest

Prosecutor owns land in protected forest JAKARTA: Head of the Unaaha Prosecutor's Office Tjahya Budiman allegedly owns land in a protected forest in Southeast Sulawesi province, said coordinator for the Coalition Against Corruption (KAK) Erick Lawid on Monday. Erick said that Tjahya illegally possessed a plot of land of between 10 and 40 hectares in a protected forest in Andabia village, Unaaha regency.

Lantern wizard going strong at 100

Lantern wizard going strong at 100 Alpha Savitri, Contributor, Surabaya The popular and much sought-after artworks, damarkurung or unique painted lanterns of East Java, overshadow the meticulous artist behind the creations, Masmundari, a grandmother now a centenarian. A very modest woman, she lives in a simple house located in a narrow alleyway on Jl. Gubernur Suryo VII/41B, Gresik, East Java, with her only daughter and three grandchildren.

1. DOLLAR (2 x 24)

1. DOLLAR (2 x 24) Dollar struggles as U.S. rate cut prospects weigh 2. TOUR (1 x 32) Asian tourism could rebound soon 3. NOKIA (1 x 30) Sales of 3G phones to remain slow

Obituary

Obituary Veteran politician Hartono Mardjono, 70, died on Sunday night at the Wahidin Sudirohusodo hospital in Makassar after attending a discussion in the South Sulawesi capital. His body was flown back to Jakarta on Monday for burial at Tanah Kusir public cemetery in South Jakarta. Hartono collapsed before taking questions from the floor at a discussion and was rushed to the hospital. It remains unclear as to what illness, if any, that he had that could have caused his death.

Airlines need financial help: Analyst

Airlines need financial help: Analyst M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Most airlines plying domestic routes are suffering losses and only those with strong financial support would survive the current stiff competition, an analyst says.

Asian tourism could rebound soon

Asian tourism could rebound soon Teresa Cerojano, Associated Press, Manila The world tourism body said Monday it expects tourism in Asia to bounce back by the end of the year despite being battered by SARS fears, the Iraq war and last year's Bali bombings. "We expect the second part of the year to be positive and tourism will be back on track in the fourth quarter," World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Francesco Frangialli said in an interview.

New management of Danamon to keep old lending strategies

New management of Danamon to keep old lending strategies Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The new management of Bank Danamon has pledged it will maintain lending strategies laid out by the previous team, focusing on loans for the consumer, commercial, and small and medium enterprise (SME) sectors. Newly appointed bank president Francis Andrew Rozario said that the country's fifth largest bank had been successful in these areas.

'Dust shower' disturbs Pulo Gadung residents

'Dust shower' disturbs Pulo Gadung residents Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Almost every day, about 150 families in Kampung Sawah, Rawa Terate, East Jakarta, inhale black smoke generated by a steel processing factory that looms over the houses. Kampung Sawah is only separated by a shallow three-meter-wide river from PT Jakarta Cakratunggal Steel Mills, which produces steel for construction purposes.

The dry season is coming

The dry season is coming Rain has not fallen for several weeks in Jakarta and its surrounding areas. The weather can no longer be predicted and the natural weather pattern has apparently changed. Rain still fell in several areas of Greater Jakarta in May when the dry season began. Heat waves hit several areas in parts of the northern hemisphere this month, including in India where at least 100 people have died due to dehydration.

The dry season is coming

The dry season is coming Rain has not fallen for several weeks in Jakarta and its surrounding areas. The weather can no longer be predicted and the natural weather pattern has apparently changed. Rain still fell in several areas of Greater Jakarta in May when the dry season began. Heat waves hit several areas in parts of the northern hemisphere this month, including in India where at least 100 people have died due to dehydration.

Teuku Faizasyah

Teuku Faizasyah Ph.D.Candidate on Diplomatic History and Conflict Resolution University of Waikato Hamilton, New Zealand 2. Morton -- U.S. should propose to North a fair interim deal 2 X 30 U.S. should propose to N. Korea a fair interim agreement Morton Abramowitz and Jessica Gingerich The Asahi Shimbun Tokyo

Threats, criticism heaped on rights body for Aceh report

Threats, criticism heaped on rights body for Aceh report The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Soon after unveiling its findings in a recent investigation in Aceh last week, members of the National Commission of Human Rights (Komnas HAM) have been threatened against speaking out further about any possible human rights violations in the war- torn province. "I received several phone calls suggesting the commission not make public the results of our inquiry without the knowledge of the military ...

Mahathir proposes euro in oil trade

Mahathir proposes euro in oil trade Eileen Ng, Agence France-Presse, Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday proposed a currency basket of the euro and the U.S. dollar for oil trades to hedge against a weak greenback and manipulation by currency traders. The veteran Southeast Asian leader said producing countries were feeling the impact of the weak greenback, which has fallen sharply against the euro.

Member of Hun Sen's party killed

Member of Hun Sen's party killed CAMBODIA: An avid supporter of Prime Minister Hun Sen's ruling party has been killed in the latest violence during the run-up to general elections, police said on Monday. Two unidentified men gunned down Mom Piseth, 35, as he drove a motorcycle home from a birthday party on Sunday night, said Mom Sovath, a Phnom Penh district police chief. The gunmen exchanged fire with police before fleeing.

Press bodies want single bill on information, state secrecy

Press bodies want single bill on information, state secrecy Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) and the Press Council put forth a demand to the House of Representatives (DPR) on Monday to integrate the freedom of information and the state secrecy bills into one proposed law to prevent disharmony. A combined bill would allow for greater freedom of information, they said.

Robbers steal 2 kg of gold jewelry

Robbers steal 2 kg of gold jewelry TANGERANG: A group of 12 robbers made off with two kilograms of gold jewelry from Sumber Rezeki gold store in a market here on Monday morning after immobilizing three security guards in the market. The men arrived at Swadaya market in Sangiang Jaya subdistrict of Tangerang municipality in two Kijang minivans at around 3 a.m.

1. Dead - 1x 27

1. Dead - 1x 27 Two neglected siblings found dead 2. Campaign - 1x 40 Election paraphernalia enlivens Pasar Senen 3. Tempo - 1 x 30 Police tried in 'Tempo' case 4. Pollution - 2x 20 'Dust shower' disturbs Pulo Gadung residents or Pulo Gadung residents suffer daily 'dust showers' 5. Speak- 2x 20 'Jakarta a nightmare for poor migrants'

Mega to make historic visit to Bangladesh

Mega to make historic visit to Bangladesh The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri will depart on Wednesday for a 10-day trip across Asia, which will include a historic visit to Bangladesh. Mongolia, Japan and Vietnam will be the next destination of the President when she completes her three-day official visit to the world's third most populous Muslim country.

Gabsi set to have bridge taught at schools

Gabsi set to have bridge taught at schools The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The game of bridge has moved a step closer to being taught at schools as the Indonesian Contract Bridge Association (Gabsi) announced here on Monday that talks were underway with the schools administrations. "We met with officials from 50 High Schools (SMU) in Jakarta last week and another round of talks with junior high schools (SMP) is set for next week," Ekawahyu Kasih, a Gabsi chief in charge of development, said.

Activist jailed for insulting Megawati

Activist jailed for insulting Megawati Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Central Jakarta District Court sentenced on Monday a Muslim activist to five months in prison for defacing President Megawati Soekarnoputri's portrait in an antigovernment protest on Jan. 15.

ASEAN lifts moratorium for security forum

ASEAN lifts moratorium for security forum CAMBODIA: ASEAN has lifted a longstanding moratorium on membership to the Asia-Pacific region's top security forum and will push for Pakistan's inclusion, a minister said on Monday. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), comprising Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, is the prime mover of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

Suu Kyi, terror dominate Asian meeting

Suu Kyi, terror dominate Asian meeting Jane Macartney, Reuters, Phnom Penh Cracking down on militant violence and unprecedented criticism of the lack of democratic progress in member state Myanmar dominated the start on Monday of a meeting of Southeast Asian foreign ministers.

RI free of SARS: WHO

RI free of SARS: WHO JAKARTA: The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Indonesia and other Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) members free of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), according to a senior government official. Umar Fahmi Achmadi, director general for communicable diseases eradication at the Ministry of Health, said on Monday that WHO's decision to remove ASEAN from the SARS list took effect on June 12.

Telkom to name auditor this week

Telkom to name auditor this week JAKARTA: PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia (Telkom) said on Monday it could appoint a new auditor as early as this week in a bid to comply with U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission regulations. "We expect to name an auditor soon or this week," said Rochiman Sukarno, Telkom's investors relations manager. The U.S.

15 people killed in Central Java bus-train collision

15 people killed in Central Java bus-train collision Blontank Poer, The Jakarta Post, Sragen, Central Java Young newlyweds Suparjo and Saparoh had planned to stay for a week-long vacation in the Central Java town of Sragen, but death claimed their souls before their dream of a romantic and happy honeymoon came true. The new couple, along with 13 other people, mostly from Tegal, died instantly when a train hit their bus at 2:20 a.m. local time on Monday.

Pensioners to get back pay

Pensioners to get back pay JAKARTA: At least 2.2 million retirees from the civil service, the Indonesia Military (TNI) and the National Police will receive back pay on their pensions soon, after President Megawati Soekarnoputri gives her approval. Maurin Sitorus, spokesman for the Ministry of Finance, said in a statement on Monday that the back pay was calculated from the difference between the former basic salary and the new one.

Asian monies up, won at record high

Asian monies up, won at record high Dow Jones, Singapore Asian currencies kicked off the week on a stronger note on renewed U.S. dollar weakness on Monday, but gains were tempered by concerns of central bank intervention. Central banks are reluctant to let their currencies appreciate too much for fear of eroding export competitiveness in an uncertain global environment.