Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 September 2003

87 articles found

Part 2 of 2: The real economic strengths of Japan-China and ASEAN members

Part 2 of 2: The real economic strengths of Japan-China and ASEAN members Lim Hua Sing, Professor, Institute of Asia Pacific Studies, Waseda University, Tokyo At current levels, the rate of economic development in China is said to be about that of Japan in the 1960s. In other words, if we assume that Japan's economy is standing still, China will have to develop for another forty years to reach Japan's present standard.

Mushrooming labor unions do not benefit workers

Mushrooming labor unions do not benefit workers Ridwan Max Sijabat, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta An expert expressed his deep concern over the huge number of labor unions that have sprung up in the reform era (since 1998), saying that this condition has weakened workers' bargaining power. "With the existence of 75 labor unions registered with the Manpower and Transmigration Ministry, Indonesia has gone beyond the reform.

Cirebon against territorial split

Cirebon against territorial split CIREBON, West Java: The Cirebon regency administration, West Java, will reject any attempt to divide its territory into two regencies -- West and East Cirebon. Cirebon deputy regent Dedi Supardi said that for whatever reason, like territorial expansion or public aspirations, splitting up the regency would not be tolerated. He made the statement in response to a public discourse on the division of Cirebon.

Honda opens two new RI plants

Honda opens two new RI plants Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Karawang, West Java Japan's second largest automotive company Honda Motor Co., Ltd., officially opened on Thursday two new plants in Karawang, West Java, raising new hopes that some still considered the country an attractive investment destination.

Howard to go to Bali as victims slam Canberra

Howard to go to Bali as victims slam Canberra Chris McCall, Agence France-Presse, Sydney, Australia Australian Prime Minister John Howard vowed on Thursday to attend commemorations of the Bali bombings as victims expressed anger at Canberra's failure to issue a warning last year that the tourist isle could be targeted by terrorists. As Indonesian police hunted for two more terrorist bombs amid fears of another attack on the Oct. 12 anniversary, Howard said he did not personally feel unsafe.

Govt to replace STPDN personnel

Govt to replace STPDN personnel The Jakarta Post, Bandung/Yogyakarta/Cirebon The Ministry of Home Affairs is to deploy 120 civil servants to the government-run Public Administration Institute (STPDN) to replace its personnel following the controversial death of its student Wahyu Hidayat.

12 soldiers court-martialled amid Aceh war

12 soldiers court-martialled amid Aceh war Nani Farida and Tengku Agam Muzakkir The Jakarta Post Banda Aceh/Lhokseumawe A military court in Aceh began prosecuting 12 Indonesian soldiers on Thursday for alleged physical abuse of Acehnese villagers in the in the province, which is enduring its fourth month of war. Military prosecutor Maj.

Dangdut exploitation

Dangdut exploitation From Koran Tempo Nearly all local TV stations are broadcasting dangdut (a blend of Indian, Arabic and Malay music) shows with dances that go beyond eastern esthetic values. Female singers are appearing with erotic shaking movements rather then only gyrations. When dangdut icon Inul introduced her drilling or gyrating style known as ngebor, the other artists followed with even hotter dances.

Revolution, war needed to restore reform movement: Scholars

Revolution, war needed to restore reform movement: Scholars Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Scholars said here on Thursday that a breakthrough, possibly a revolution or even war, was needed to put the country's reform movement back on course.

* Headlines: 12 soldiers court-martialled amid Aceh war 2

* Headlines: 12 soldiers court-martialled amid Aceh war 2 * National: 'Revolution, war needed to restore reform movement'4 * Archipelago:Seven months sought for soldiers 5 * Opinion: Just say 'no' to Bush's unilateralist agenda 7 * City: Rescue team finds one landslide victim 8 * Sports: Taufik through but Sony crashes out 10 * World:Kelly family's lawyer accuses govt of lying at probe 11 * Business:Bush urged to intensify pressure in yuan battle 16 * Features: Iraq meets Texas in Jessica Lynch...

20,000 live in risky areas

20,000 live in risky areas YOGYAKARTA: About 20,000 villagers in Sleman regency live in at least four disaster-prone areas due to volcanic activity in Yogyakarta, officials say. "They live on the southern slopes of Mount Merapi in the subdistricts of Tempel, Turi, Pakem and Cangkringan," said Sleman Regent Ibnu Subiyanto on Wednesday. He said his administration had allocated emergency funds in anticipation of a volcanic eruption.

Police seek Vegas case witnesses

Police seek Vegas case witnesses Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara Police said on Thursday that they were searching for at least three people who reportedly entered East Timor illegally along with former militiaman Vegas Bibilitu, who was shot dead in the neighboring country. "The identities of the three people are not clear and their whereabouts remain a mystery.

checked EJK

checked EJK CEO SUITE provides ultimate solution Soon after the Aug. 5 JW Marriott Hotel bombing in Jakarta, one American director with an office at the CEO SUITE here decided to temporarily leave the country due to security reasons. The problem was his business in Jakarta still had to run. But, not to worry. Within minutes the management of CEO SUITE had arranged a substitute office for him in the location of his choice, at CEO SUITE in Singapore.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________ Rupiah Rates Sept.25 _________________________________________________________________________________________ Banknote rates TT rates Selling Buying Selling Buying Australian dollar 1 6,077.95 5,394.87 5,766.92 5,705.67 Brunei dollar 1 5,163.56 4,583.98 4,899.32 4,848.07 Canadian dollar 1 6,624.23 5,881.05 6,285.25 6,219.72 Swiss franc 1 6,618.84 5,877.13 6,280.14 6,215.72 Danish krone 1 1,382.71 1,227.70...

12 soldiers court-martialled amid Aceh war

12 soldiers court-martialled amid Aceh war Nani Farida and Tengku Agam Muzakkir, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh/Lhokseumawe A military court in Aceh began prosecuting 12 Indonesian soldiers on Thursday for alleged physical abuse of Acehnese villagers in the in the province, which is enduring its fourth month of war. Military prosecutor Maj.

House only finishes two of 30 bills

House only finishes two of 30 bills The Jakarta Post, Jakarta In a repeat of past performances, the House of Representatives (DPR) will once again have failed to meet its legislation target when it closes on Friday, after holding deliberations from Aug. 15 to Sept. 26. Of the 30 bills set for deliberation during the August- September session, the lawmakers could only finish two bills, on the revision to the money laundering law on Sept. 16 and on geothermal on Sept. 23.

Eviction injuries take their toll

Eviction injuries take their toll Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak and Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A man eventually died of injuries he sustained a week after a clash with security officers who forced out occupants of state land in Kampung Baru area in East Cengkareng subdistrict, West Jakarta. Toto Supriyanto, 35, died after kidney failure early Wednesday at the Islamic Hospital in his hometown Klaten, Central Java, where he was being treated the past several days.

15 vie for top local entrepreneur award

15 vie for top local entrepreneur award The Jakarta Post, Jakarta International consultancy firm Ernst & Young has shortlisted 15 local businesspoeple for the final selection to get the Enterpreneur of The Year (EOY) award for 2003. The firm said in a statement that an independent judge panel would sit together to choose one of the 15 as the recipient of the prestigious award.

BI against easing of banking secrecy

BI against easing of banking secrecy The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Bank Indonesia joined on Thursday a chorus of objections in response to a proposal to relax the banking secrecy code, saying it would shatter confidence in the banking sector and even provoke capital outflows. "People might lose confidence in banks and then stash their funds abroad," Bank Indonesia senior deputy governor Anwar Nasution told reporters.

Revamp the UN

Revamp the UN In her speech in front of the 58th United Nations General Assembly in New York last Tuesday, President Megawati Soekarnoputri rightly raised two issues of great significance to the current conflict-ridden global community, as well as to Indonesia in its fragile transition toward democracy. The first issue the President raised, concerned the principle of multilateralism.

1. DUIT (4 x 12)

1. DUIT (4 x 12) Asian monies mostly down on yen and stock falls 2. SARS (2 x 24) SARS cost Asia 7m jobs, but is recovering: PATA 3. EIU (1 x 45) Shareholders more aggressive amid scandals 4. ERNST (2 x 20) 15 vie for top local entrepreneur award

Rich countries may split powerful G-22 bloc: RP

Rich countries may split powerful G-22 bloc: RP Mynardo Macaraig, Agence France-Presse, Manila Rich nations may try to split the group of 22 developing nations, whose firm stand on agriculture issues led to the failure of the WTO talks in Cancun, the Philippines warned on Thursday. The first priority of the new bloc, known popularly as the "G- 22" and of which the Philippines is a key member, would be to keep intact, Philippine Agriculture Secretary Lito Lorenzo said.

Workers protest suspension

Workers protest suspension Thousands of workers from giant company PT Texmaco Group in Central Java have protested being left jobless for months, since January this year. Their 22 representatives staged a rally at the Central Java legislative council in Semarang on Wednesday to demand that provincial authorities help resolve the issue. They said Texmaco had suspended 2,550 workers and laid off 1,540 others during the January to September period.

Megawati begins Tunisia visit

Megawati begins Tunisia visit TUNISIA: President Megawati Soekarnoputri held bilateral talks with Tunisia President Zine el Abidine Ben Ali and Prime Minister Ghanouchi Mohamed on Thursday, the first day of her two-day visit to the country. According to foreign minister Hassan Wirayuda, the two heads of state discussed various issues, including the possibility of countertrade between the two countries.

Papuans hold peace rite to end division clashes

Papuans hold peace rite to end division clashes The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Supporters and opponents of the creation of Central Irian Jaya province barbecued two pigs in a traditional ceremony on Thursday in the town of Timika, Papua province, to mark a peace agreement among them. The solemn event, held at around 4:15 p.m., was witnessed by Papua Governor Jaap Salossa, Trikora Military Commander Brig. Gen. Nurdin Zainal and Papua Police chief Insp. Gen.

Lawmakers get PCs

Lawmakers get PCs JAKARTA: Legislators finally got a personal computer and a printer each from the House of Representatives secretariat on Friday, which is expected to boost their performance. Some of the legislators, however, complained that the computers should have been dispersed years ago. "This kind of equipment should have been given at the beginning of the legislative term," said Djoko Susilo, deputy secretary of the Reform faction, on Thursday.

Late paper

Late paper Due to technical problems, The Jakarta Post's Thursday edition arrived late to subscribers in the West Java cities of Bandung, Purwakarta and Subang. We apologize for any inconvenience caused. -- Publisher

Rescue team finds one landslide victim

Rescue team finds one landslide victim Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Bogor After six days of fruitless searching, the police and military joint rescue team finally managed on Thursday to recover the body of one of five landslide victims in Bogor regency. The victim, identified as Ujang Zakanuri Karta, was found at 1:27 p.m. by First Corp. Maryono from the Army, who was operating the excavator on Pasir Gudang hill, Pasir Buncir village, Bogor.

Alcoa may invest in Brunei

Alcoa may invest in Brunei BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Alcoa Inc., the world's largest aluminum producer, will conduct a study on the possibility of establishing a US$1.5 billion aluminum smelting plant in Brunei, officials said on Thursday. Alcoa has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Brunei Economic Development Board to carry out a two-year study to evaluate the potential for developing a plant in this Southeast Asian sultanate on Borneo island, both sides said in a joint statement.

Laksamana rebuked for Pertamina post

Laksamana rebuked for Pertamina post JAKARTA: Transparency International (TI) criticized on Thursday State Minister of State Enterprises Laksamana Sukardi for appointing himself as the new chief of the board commissioners of state oil and gas firm Pertamina, saying such a practice was prone to abuse of power and corruption. Jeremy Pope, director of TI Center for Research and Innovation, said it was wrong for a country to have a system that allowed a minister to do so.

TV Today: Friday, September 26, 2003

TV Today: Friday, September 26, 2003 .TB.30" .90" TVRI .tb .30" .90" 6:00 a.m. News: Berita Pagi 7:00 Magic Show 8:00 Travel 9:00 Religious Teachings 10:00 Quiz: Dibisikin 11:30 Music 12:00 p.m. Battle of Wits 1:00 News: Berita Siang 2:00 TV Drama 3:00 City News 3:30 Documentary 4:30 Music 5:00 Comedy Drama 6:00 English News Services 7:00 News 9:00 News: Dunia Dalam Berita 10:30 Talk Show: Bincang Malam 11:30 Religious Songs TPI 6:00 a.m.

Megawati begins Tunisia visit

Megawati begins Tunisia visit TUNISIA: President Megawati Soekarnoputri held bilateral talks with Tunisia President Zine el Abidine Ben Ali and Prime Minister Ghanouchi Mohamed on Thursday, the first day of her two-day visit to the country. According to foreign minister Hassan Wirayuda, the two heads of state discussed various issues, including the possibility of countertrade between the two countries.

Fire razes 50 houses in Tebet

Fire razes 50 houses in Tebet JAKARTA: About 50 families lost their homes to fire, on Jl. Tebet Raya, South Jakarta, on Thursday. "The fire was reported at 3:10 p.m. A total of 24 fire trucks were deployed to the location. The firefighters eventually managed to extinguish the fire at around 6:45 p.m.," an officer of the Jakarta Fire Department said. According to a Tebet district official, the fire was suspected to have started when a stove exploded.

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Sept.25, 2003

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Sept.25, 2003 _____________________________________________________________________________ Shares Close Change Trading Volume _____________________________________________________________________________ Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 1,000 0 2,500 Adindo Foresta 50 0 0 AGIS Tbk 105 -10 82,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 135 10 72,000 Alakasa Industrindo 145 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 1,300 -50 17,500 Alter Abadi Tbk 25 0 23,000 Alumindo...

Govt to go all out to attract more FDI

Govt to go all out to attract more FDI The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is expected to propose a new investment law to the House of Representatives in December, which would allow foreign investors to put their money in almost all sectors of the economy in a move to help boost inward investment.

'Reconciliation knows no limit': Minister

'Reconciliation knows no limit': Minister JAKARTA: All human rights cases that cannot be settled in court should be presented to the reconciliation commission regardless of what year the abuses took place, a minister says. In order to avoid confusion, however, Minister of Justice and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra said on Thursday that cases prior to Aug. 17, 1945 should not be presented to the commission. The commission has yet to be set up.

Firm to regreen Bontang with 7,000 trees

Firm to regreen Bontang with 7,000 trees SAMARINDA, East Kalimantan: A Dutch chemical and drug company has launched a drive to regreen Bontang city in East Kalimantan by planting around 7,000 trees. The move, called the "Dream Action" program, is part of PT DSM Kaltim Melamine's activities to mark its 100th anniversary, company executive director Jan Dopper said on Thursday. He said the trees will be planted across seven hectares of land in Bontang.

Indonesian terror suspect fights deportation ordered by Malaysian

Indonesian terror suspect fights deportation ordered by Malaysian government Jasbant Singh Associated Press Kuala Lumpur A suspected leader of the Jamaah Islamiyah militant group who has been freed from prison in Malaysia is fighting government plans to deport him to Indonesia, his family and lawyer said on Tuesday.

Abducted boy released

Abducted boy released TANGERANG: Tangerang Police arrested a man who abducted his girlfriend's three-year-old boy and was attempting to flee to Teluk Betung, Lampung, on Thursday. The boy's identity was not revealed as he is still a minor. The police needed nine hours to catch suspect Haryanto, 26, a resident of Teluk Betung, after receiving a report from the boy's mother, Fauziah, 23. Tangerang Police detectives' deputy chief Insp. Kustanto said that the suspect had not demanded a ransom.

Former athletes welcome forest plan

Former athletes welcome forest plan The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Retired athletes, fondly remembering their glory days at the now- named Bung Karno Sports Complex (GBK), threw their weight behind the GBK management's plan to turn the eastern parking lot into an urban forest in the near future. "I'm very sad to have witnessed the sports complex become what it is nowadays," said former high jumper Titik S. Sudibyo, 68.

Mahathir gives last UN speech

Mahathir gives last UN speech Ranjan Roy, Associated Press, United Nations For two decades, Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has used almost every international podium to lambast the West, winning a reputation as a loud, and often blunt, champion of Third World causes. On Thursday, when Mahathir, now 77, speaks at the U.N. General Assembly's annual ministerial gathering of 191 nations, he is likely to do the same -- but for the last time to the world body.

Megawati begins Tunisia visit

Megawati begins Tunisia visit TUNISIA: President Megawati Soekarnoputri held bilateral talks with Tunisia President Zine el Abidine Ben Ali and Prime Minister Ghanouchi Mohamed on Thursday, the first day of her two-day visit to the country. According to foreign minister Hassan Wirayuda, the two heads of state discussed various issues, including the possibility of countertrade between the two countries.

On eradicating terrorism

On eradicating terrorism From Media Indonesia Rampant terrorist acts across the world have led to controversies in our country about the need for our intelligence service to enjoy greater authority, so that terrorism can be better countered and handled. Bomb attacks perpetrated by terrorists in Indonesia have led to both the world's sympathy for Indonesia and allegations that the country is a lair of terrorists.

One killed in Sumbawa Besar riot

One killed in Sumbawa Besar riot Luh Putu Trisna Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara At least one person has been killed and eight others injured in a riot, following a demonstration against the local police office in the Sumbawa Besar regency, West Nusa Tenggara, on Thursday. Gathan, a civilian who joined the protest, was shot in the forehead and died shortly after being taken to hospital. Among those who were injured were Gufron, Sirajuni, Mahsun, Ramli, and Ukang.

TV Today: Friday, September 26, 2003

TV Today: Friday, September 26, 2003 .TB.30" .90" TVRI .tb .30" .90" 6:00 a.m. News: Berita Pagi 7:00 Magic Show 8:00 Travel 9:00 Religious Teachings 10:00 Quiz: Dibisikin 11:30 Music 12:00 p.m. Battle of Wits 1:00 News: Berita Siang 2:00 TV Drama 3:00 City News 3:30 Documentary 4:30 Music 5:00 Comedy Drama 6:00 English News Services 7:00 News 9:00 News: Dunia Dalam Berita 10:30 Talk Show: Bincang Malam 11:30 Religious Songs TPI 6:00 a.m.

Hambali's younger brother admits assisting him

Hambali's younger brother admits assisting him The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Rusman Gunawan, alias Gun Gun, one of five arrested Indonesian students in Pakistan, has admitted that he aided his elder brother, top terrorist suspect Riduan Isamuddin, alias Hambali, but denied the involvement of other detained students. "They are not guilty.

Environment ministry to talk to DPR over bill

Environment ministry to talk to DPR over bill Muninggar Sri Saraswati The Jakarta Post Jakarta In response to public outcry over the deliberation of the water resources draft bill, State Minister for the Environment Nabiel Makarim has promised to bring their complaints to the House of Representatives (DPR). "We will recommend that the House listen to the public," he told The Jakarta Post on Thursday in his office.

Robber shot dead trying to escape

Robber shot dead trying to escape TANGERANG: Police shot dead on Thursday a member of a gang specializing in robbing jewelry stores when he tried to escape arrest in Jembatan Besi, West Jakarta. The robber, Wahyu, alias Sabra, 30, had been arrested on Thursday morning along with accomplices Soleh, 31, and Mahuddin, 29, in Sukamaju village, Cikesal district, Serang regency. The suspects had testified during questioning that another member of the gang, PT, lived in a rented house in Jembatan Besi.

Yangoon's coolness disappoints Mega

Yangoon's coolness disappoints Mega Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, New York President Megawati Soekarnoputri expressed disappointment on Wednesday (Thursday Jakarta time) at the cool response from Myanmar to the visit of special envoy Ali Alatas early this week to secure the release of prodemocracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Sculptor says Rp 1.2b Soedirman statue cost

Sculptor says Rp 1.2b Soedirman statue cost Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung More alleged irregularities in the construction of Soedirman statue on Jl. Jend. Sudirman, Central Jakarta, were seemingly revealed as its sculptor, Soenaryo, admitted on Thursday that the value of the sculpture was Rp 1.2 billion (US$141,176), clearly contradicting a city official's statement on Tuesday.

Two killed, six injured in attack at PDI-P office

Two killed, six injured in attack at PDI-P office Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan, North Sumatra At least seven people were seriously injured when thousands of Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) supporters attacked the party's provincial office here on Thursday.

Soeryo Winoto

Soeryo Winoto Staff writer The Jakarta Post Jakarta soeryo@thejakartapost.com 2. Waseda -- Japan-China and ASEAN 2 X 30 Part 2 of 2 The real economic strengths of Japan-China and ASEAN countries Lim Hua Sing Professor Institute of Asia Pacific Studies Waseda University Tokyo

Anti-corruption team nearly ready, ICW left off list

Anti-corruption team nearly ready, ICW left off list A'an Suryana The Jakarta Post Jakarta A minister said he has provided facilities for a small team set up by the government to select candidates nominated for the Commission for Eradication of Corruption (KPTK) to fulfill the requirements of an anticorruption law.

1. INSIGHT: 48 pt, 7 cols, 1 x 42

1. INSIGHT: 48 pt, 7 cols, 1 x 42 Capital market development lacks guidance 2. YANGON: 36 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 21 Mega disappointed over Myanmar's response 3. KUALA LUMPUR: 28 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 40 'Detained students groomed as JI leaders' 4. SYDNEY: 28 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 30 John Howard vows to go to Bali as victims' families slam Canberra

Best practice risk management for RI banks

Best practice risk management for RI banks Anthony Brent Elam Managing Director Bank Central Asia Jakarta 2. Power -- Can we avoid an Iranian bomb? 2 x 21 Europe, U.S. must rethink their strident stand on Iran nb: "waived" and "waiving" should be "waved" and "waving". See bolding below Jonathan Power Columnist Istanbul No country prevaricates so much unless it has something to hide.

Shares end mixed on profit-taking

Shares end mixed on profit-taking Dow Jones, Jakarta Shares ended mixed on Thursday, with further profit-taking in telecommunications company PT Telkom keeping the main index in negative territory, dealers said. Overall sentiment was weak with many investors moving to the sidelines following losses on Wall Street overnight after the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) decided to cut its oil production ceiling.

Part 2 of 2: The real economic strengths of Japan-China and ASEAN members

Part 2 of 2: The real economic strengths of Japan-China and ASEAN members Lim Hua Sing, Professor, Institute of Asia Pacific Studies, Waseda University, Tokyo At current levels, the rate of economic development in China is said to be about that of Japan in the 1960s. In other words, if we assume that Japan's economy is standing still, China will have to develop for another forty years to reach Japan's present standard.

NTB gets new council speaker

NTB gets new council speaker MATARAM, West Nusa Tenggara: A Golkar Party figure was elected as the new speaker of the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) legislative council on Thursday, to replace Lalu Serinato, who had been named the province's governor. Sunardi Ayub won 27 of 54 votes, defeating his two rival candidates -- Rahmat Hidayat from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) and Anwar M.Z. from the United Development Party (PPP).

Taufik goes through but Sony loses in Denmark

Taufik goes through but Sony loses in Denmark The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Taufik Hidayat cruised through the third round with a 15-10, 15-5 win over Sergio Llopis of Spain but Sony Dwi Kuncoro failed to overcome his second-round hurdle at the Denmark Open in Aarhus, Denmark on Wednesday. 19-year-old Sony fell to local hopeful Peter Rasmussen, who is ten years older than the rising Indonesian star, 4-15, 15-12, 7- 15.

Eight investors vie for oil and gas concessions

Eight investors vie for oil and gas concessions The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Eight oil and gas companies are vying to gain concessions for eight oil and gas blocks in the country, a senior official said on Thursday. Director General of Oil and Gas Iin Arifin Takhyan said the companies had submitted proposals to the government to explore and develop hydrocarbon resources in the blocks, even though the government had not offered them in an open tender.

Mushrooming labor unions do not benefit workers

Mushrooming labor unions do not benefit workers Ridwan Max Sijabat The Jakarta Post Jakarta An expert expressed his deep concern over the huge number of labor unions that have sprung up in the reform era (since 1998), saying that this condition has weakened workers' bargaining power. "With the existence of 75 labor unions registered with the Manpower and Transmigration Ministry, Indonesia has gone beyond the reform.

Increased output, higher price boost Inco's earnings

Increased output, higher price boost Inco's earnings The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Nickel mining company PT International Nickel Indonesia's (PT Inco Indonesia) net earnings almost tripled in the first half of this year, thanks to increased output and the higher price of nickel. At its extraordinary general meeting of shareholders on Thursday, PT Inco reported a net earning of US$36.8 million in the first six months of this year, compared to $12 million in the same period last year.

DJ Indosat '03 Net May Double On Gains From MGTI Stake Sale

DJ Indosat '03 Net May Double On Gains From MGTI Stake Sale Dow Jones Jakarta PT Indonesia Satellite Corp.'s (IIT) sale of its 30.55 percent stake in PT Mitra Global Telekomunikasi Indonesia, or MGTI, may double its net profit this year and help it refinance a large slice of its debt, analysts said. Indosat said on Wednesday it will sell its stake in the Central Javan fixed line operator to a unit of Saratoga Investama Sedaya, a local investment firm.

Telkom, Siemens sign deal

Telkom, Siemens sign deal JAKARTA: PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia said on Thursday that it has contracted Siemens Consortium to build telecommunication infrastructure in Kalimantan and Sulawesi islands for around US$25 million. Telkom, the country's largest telecom company, said it will use its internal cash flow to fund the construction which is expected to be completed within 17 months. The Siemens Consortium comprises Siemens AG, PT Siemen Indonesia, PT LEN Industry and Corning Cable System.

Load of garbage

Load of garbage From Warta Kota Recently I have seen plastic garbage dumped just anywhere, sometimes in front of a house or a school. Not far away, actually, there is a large disposal drum. As a result of this careless dumping of garbage, our surroundings will be dirty and gutters will be clogged. As food remains are also thrown away carelessly, the air become pungent. The community should take care to throw their garbage in the right place.

SARS cost Asia 7m jobs, but is recovering: PATA

SARS cost Asia 7m jobs, but is recovering: PATA Agence France-Presse, Bangkok The SARS crisis cost Asian economies over seven million jobs and slashed at least US$30 billion off growth estimates this year but effects on the worst-hit countries should be short-lived, a travel association said on Thursday. Asia's tourism and travel industry was ravaged by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which prompted a plunge in travel in the region earlier this year, dampening the economies.

AP;ANJ;

AP;ANJ; ANPAu..r.. AGlance-S'pore-M'sia-row Int'l tribunal hears S'pore-KL row JP/11/J01 Int'l tribunal hears S'pore-KL row GERMANY: An international tribunal in Hamburg on Thursday began hearing a complaint from Malaysia over Singapore's land reclamation works in the straits that separate the two countries. Malaysia brought the case to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea after months of unproductive talks with Singapore.

Koizumi, Wen to meet in Bali

Koizumi, Wen to meet in Bali HONG KONG: Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi is to meet Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Bali next month, Kyodo reported on Wednesday quoting a Japanese official. Among the topics the two will discuss during the Oct. 7 and Oct. 8 summit will be efforts to restart the six-way talks over North Korea's nuclear ambitions, the official said.

Newly built house becomes nightmare

Newly built house becomes nightmare In what should have been a sweet dream after relative success in Jakarta ended up as a nightmare. Toto Supriyanto, 35, and his youngest brother, Parno, 25, came to Jakarta two years ago, soon after he married Tri Lasasih, 34. Parno said that they came here to buy used cars with a competitive price and supply them to a showroom in Yogyakarta.

Nuke watchdog finds more enriched uranium in Iran

Nuke watchdog finds more enriched uranium in Iran Agencies, Vienna/New York The United Nations nuclear watchdog has found further traces of enriched uranium in Iran, though this discovery could support Tehran's explanation that the traces are due to contamination, diplomats told Reuters. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the diplomats said the new traces of highly-enriched uranium were found at the Kalaye Electric Co.

Floods expected in October, says BMG

Floods expected in October, says BMG Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Meteorological and Geophysical Agency (BMG), warns that floods may hit the city in mid October when heavy rain is expected in upper areas of eastern Jakarta, like Puncak resort, Bogor and Depok. BMG's deputy for observation affairs Hery Harjanto said although the rainy season is likely to start in earnest in mid November, floods may hit the capital mid next month.

Indonesia badly needs witness protection law

Indonesia badly needs witness protection law Soeryo Winoto, Staff writer, The Jakarta Post, soeryo@thejakartapost.com The screening of unabashed physical abuse by senior students of the state-run Public Administration Institute (STPDN) against their juniors has become a nightmare for the institute, located in the West Java town, Sumedang. The footage by private television station SCTV has apparently provoked anger among the public, most of whom regard what the senior students did as barbaric.

1 x 33

1 x 33 Only 7 months sought for soldiers 1 x 32 Police seek Vegas case witnesses JP/5/boat 1 x 49 Four still missing after Bengkalis boat accident JP/5/damai 2 x 23 Papuans hold peace rite to end division clashes

Navy to buy South Korea subs

Navy to buy South Korea subs Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The question of from where the Navy would purchase two submarines it plans to acquire in the next 10 years was answered on Thursday when Navy Chief of Staff Adm. Bernard Kent Sondakh said his office would get them from South Korea. Sondakh said the Navy would acquire two submarines type 1300 equipped with dozens of torpedoes from South Korea, with the first delivery expected in 2008.

Marines confirm Gunawan's order

Marines confirm Gunawan's order JAKARTA: Naval Military Police Commander Brig. Gen. Soenarko AG disclosed on Thursday that four marines had admitted before investigators that Gunawan Santosa ordered them to assassinate computer firm PT Asaba president director Budyharto Angsono and his bodyguard Second. Sgt. Edi Siyep of the Army. "The four soldiers admitted during the interrogation that they were ordered by Gunawan to kill Budyharto and his bodyguard.

Megawati begins Tunisia visit

Megawati begins Tunisia visit TUNISIA: President Megawati Soekarnoputri held bilateral talks with Tunisia President Zine el Abidine Ben Ali and Prime Minister Ghanouchi Mohamed on Thursday, the first day of his two-day visit to that country. According to Foreign Affairs Minister Hassan Wirayuda, the two heads of states discussed various issues, including possible counter trade between the two countries.

Four still missing Bengkalis boat accident

Four still missing Bengkalis boat accident Haidir Anwar Tanjung, The Jakarta Post, Pekanbaru, Riau At least six more bodies were found after an overloaded, traditional boat sank in Tanjung Semak waters off Topang island, Bengkalis regency, Riau, bringing the death toll to 13 people, rescuers said on Thursday. Rescue workers and security officers were searching for at least four other passengers still missing after the incident on Monday night. Search and rescue (SAR) team leader M.

On ASEAN road map

On ASEAN road map These few weeks have seen leaders of Associaion of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) intensifying efforts at strengthening their association's cohesion in terms of trade and services against the onslaught of trade globalization on one hand and the internal and external menace from terrorism in its various manifestations, on the other.

Indosat plans to market global bond

Indosat plans to market global bond JAKARTA: PT Indosat plans to start marketing its U.S. dollar- denominated bond to overseas investors early next month, via roadshows in the world's top financial centers, company president Widya Purnama said on Thursday. The country's second-largest telecommunications company hasn't yet decided how much bonds it's going to sell. "But if we get a good (credit) rating, we may be able to issue up to US$300 million," company president Widya Purnama said.

'Low politics'

'Low politics' Indonesia's political life has been marred by "low politics" these past years. Power struggle and the embezzlement of state funds cannot be inherited by the next generations. Politicians are no longer capable of monitoring the government's performance. People who deserve protection and welfare have become target of illegal fees. State budget and provincial development funds have been used only to meet the demands of officials who are fond of traveling overseas.

Seven months sought for soldiers

Seven months sought for soldiers Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua Military prosecutors demanded on Thursday only seven months in prison for seven of nine soldiers being tried in connection with the April burglary of munitions in Papua province, in which three people, including two Army soldiers, were killed. They admitted the seven could face between two and four years in prison, but prosecutors sought a lesser jail term for the defendants.

Indonesia has difficulty meeting OPEC quota

Indonesia has difficulty meeting OPEC quota Dow Jones, Jakarta The government has welcomed the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries'(OPEC) decision to cut output by 900,000 barrels per day (bpd) from next month, saying the move will help keep crude oil prices stable even if supply from Iraq increases later this year.

KPU announces mapping of electoral districts

KPU announces mapping of electoral districts Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The General Elections Commission (KPU) has established a total of 1,565 electoral districts in more than 400 regencies for the seats in regency and municipality legislative councils. But no further details on the boundaries of the electoral districts were provided.

Best practice risk management for RI banks

Best practice risk management for RI banks Anthony Brent Elam, Managing Director, Bank Central Asia, Jakarta Since the Asian Economic Crisis in 1997, the banking industry in Indonesia has undergone tremendous changes.

Makassar, Bali terror accomplices get jail sentences

Makassar, Bali terror accomplices get jail sentences Wahyoe Boediwardhana and Andi Hajramurni, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar/Makassar Denpasar and Makassar district courts sentenced three accomplices of terror attacks in separate trials on Thursday. Also on Thursday, a remorseful Ali Imron, sentenced to life in prison last week for helping plot and execute attacks on Bali in October last year, has decided not to appeal against the verdict.

Message from His Excellency the Chinese Ambassador Lu Shumin

Message from His Excellency the Chinese Ambassador Lu Shumin On the occasion of the 54th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, on behalf of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Indonesia, and in my own name, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have long been concerned about and supportive of China's development, and who have committed themselves to the friendship and cooperation between China and Indonesia.

Capital market development lacks guidance

Capital market development lacks guidance Lin Che Wei, Director and Founder, Independent Research & Advisory, Jakarta Indonesia was the last of five countries to emerge from the Asian financial crisis. One of the main reasons for Indonesia's prolonged crisis was the massive banking failure, which in turn was due to the poor banking supervision and poor lending practices among Indonesian banks.