Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 January 2004

90 articles found

JP/7/LET81.LEI

JP/7/LET81.LEI Helping migrant women workers From Kompas We have read reports about the plight of Indonesian migrant women workers in Saudi Arabia and some other countries. I believe the government and the Indonesian labor recruitment companies are fully responsible for this matter. The Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration, the Office of the State Minister for the Empowerment of Women and the foreign ministry should come to the fore in defense of Indonesian citizens facing trouble abroad.

No parking is no stopping?

No parking is no stopping? From Media Indonesia As part of my daily routine, I stopped my car recently in front of Plaza Mandiri, Jl. Gatot Subroto, to drop my wife and a friend working in the BEJ commercial area. I was sure that stopping in this area was allowed because there was only a no- parking sign. A policeman suddenly appeared, asking me to give up my driver's license for ticketing. I tried to explain that not a single no-stopping sign was found, so there was no violation.

Where to go in Jakarta: Saturday, January 10, 2004

Where to go in Jakarta: Saturday, January 10, 2004 Exhibitions * Puppet Wayang Menak, Bentara Budaya Jakarta, Jl. Palmerah Selatan No. 17, Central Jakarta (Tel. 5483008 ext. 7910/7911), until Jan. 15. * Installation, Painting, Drawing by Awan Simatupang and Okky Arfie Hutabarat, Lontar Gallery, Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta (Tel. 8573388), until Jan. 31. * Painting: Dari Abas sampai Dumas, Galeri Milenium, D'Best Shopping Center, Blok B-23, Jl. R.S. Fatmawati No. 15, South Jakarta (Tel.

Mars probe and women

Mars probe and women With the successful landing on Mars of the NASA robot, "Spirit," recently in search of water drops, perhaps only women in Indonesia will now be intrigued by the question of how great a sign there is on the Red Planet of the human female species, which may have survived the heat over millions of years. Indonesian women have progressed so dynamically that their curiosity in the field of science and technology should not be underestimated.

Residents cry foul over pollution

Residents cry foul over pollution Marilin, The Jakarta Post, Depok Residents of Curug subdistrict, Cimanggis district, Depok, have complained about pollution in the nearby Rawa Kalong pond that killed thousands of their fish last October. They also questioned the Depok municipality administration's seriousness in handling the matter, particularly after their last meeting when officials told residents to stop fish farming in the pond.

KPU member gives up car

KPU member gives up car Moch. N. Kurniawan and Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Bandung General Elections Commission (KPU) member Anas Urbaningrum returned on Friday his newly bought official car to the commission, after public outrage. "I consulted my colleagues and they let me take my own stance on this controversial issue," Anas told a press conference. He said he would not use any official car from KPU. Other KPU members seemed reluctant to follow suit, however.

On IMF economic reforms

On IMF economic reforms We hope the government will not give in totally to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank pressure and completely change its course. Our opposition to the macro economic policy framework that the IMF and the World Bank are imposing on our country is not necessarily that its goal of stabilizing macro-economic variables is wrong in itself.

Garbage: A long story

Garbage: A long story Seen from the common peoples' point of view, the recent dispute over the use of the Bantar Gebang garbage dump in Bekasi, West Java, is a good sample of idiosyncratic behavior on the parts of both the Bekasi and Jakarta administrations.

Bekasi OKs Jakarta to use its dump

Bekasi OKs Jakarta to use its dump Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Bekasi municipality administration sent a letter to Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso on Friday, notifying him that the capital would be allowed to dump its daily 6,000 tons of garbage at the 104- hectare Bantar Gebang dump. The letter is an anticlimax to the on-and-off dispute between Jakarta and Bekasi.

UGM students to monitor general election

UGM students to monitor general election Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Gadjah Mada University (UGM) is planning to replace the obligatory community service program -- which is traditionally undertaken by undergraduate students in their final year -- with a program to monitor the 2004 general election, a top UGM official has said.

North Sumatra Police ready for polls

North Sumatra Police ready for polls MEDAN, North Sumatra: The North Sumatra Provincial Police will deploy 10,163 police personnel to safeguard the 2004 general election. The deputy chief of the North Sumatra Provincial Police, Brig. Gen. Maman Supratman, said that the deployment was aimed at guarding against possible disturbance during the election.

No prayers for dead corruptors

No prayers for dead corruptors From Warta Kota The Corruption Eradication Commission as well as the anti- corruption movements organized by Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah deserve the support of everybody longing to rid the country of this crime. A decision of the recent working conference of NU's East Java regional board rules that no prayer service should be held at the funeral of a corruptor as corruption is the stealing of public money and therefore amounts to an evil deed.

Driver leads passengers to deaths

Driver leads passengers to deaths BEKASI: Three passengers of a public minibus died in a crash on the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road early on Friday, while six other passengers are being treated at Karya Bhakti Hospital in Cikampek for serious injuries. According to the passengers, who were heading to Jakarta from Banyumas, Central Java, the minibus driver Agus Salim was driving recklessly while joking with the passengers.

Fire razes 300 houses in Jelambar

Fire razes 300 houses in Jelambar Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta More than 2,000 people lost their homes on Friday when a fire burned down their houses along Jl. Jelambar Jaya 3 and Jl. Jelambar Jaya 4 in Jelambar Baru subdistrict, West Jakarta, at around 2:30 p.m. "At least 290 families from five neighborhood units lost their homes. So far, no casualties have been reported," said the community unit head, Halimi. Three people were injured in the incident.

BIN's potential overlap with Army commands queried

BIN's potential overlap with Army commands queried Muninggar Sri Saraswati and Sandy Darmosumarto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta An activist with a rights watchdog, which had reported in December that the national intelligence body was already beginning activities at the district level, questioned a potential overlapping of functions with the military's territorial commands. "I am afraid Indonesia will turn into a police state.

Busway project's frontliners feel neglected

Busway project's frontliners feel neglected Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta As the drivers for the soon to be opened busway undergo a week- long training course at the National Police Traffic Training Center in Serpong, Tangerang, they remain anxious about what the future holds for them and this daring new project. Taking a break outside the dining hall of the training center with fellow bus drivers, Taswar D. expressed his concerns when talking to The Jakarta Post on Friday.

BPK ready to help police on account 502 probe

BPK ready to help police on account 502 probe Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) is ready and willing to assist the police with the ongoing investigation into allegations of the misuse of government funds in Account No. 502. "There has not been any request from the police so far, but we are open to any request of assistance from them," said the agency's head Satrio Budiharjo "Billy" Joedono on Friday, adding that the agency had plenty of data on the case.

Actor Sahrul ready to move past pretty boy roles

Actor Sahrul ready to move past pretty boy roles Tony Ryanto, Contributor, Jakarta A lot of kids and teenyboppers may well be acquainted with Sahrul Gunawan, a teenage singer and the protagonist of Jin dan Jun (Jin and Jun), a TV show that was broadcast on RCTI from 1995 to 2000. Two different actors starred as Jin, but Sahrul played Jun for the full five-year run of the show.

Police fail to grill Beddu as his whereabouts unknown

Police fail to grill Beddu as his whereabouts unknown Sandy Darmosumarto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Police were unable to present former chief of the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) Beddu Amang for questioning on Friday, despite the fact that they had a warrant to pick him up from his house. Hadidjaja, one of the medical doctors who was waiting for permission to enter of Beddu's residence in Kemang, South Jakarta, said that "we possess a warrant to conduct a search of Beddu's residence".

Shooting of ex-militia member probed

Shooting of ex-militia member probed KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: The National Police Headquarters are investigating the fatal shooting of Vegas Biliatu, a former pro- Jakarta militia, in Raihat district in Belu regency here last year. Biliatu was shot dead in a neutral zone on the border of Indonesia and East Timor. "He was allegedly shot by a member of the East Timor National Police," said Brig. Gen. Edward Aritonang, the chief of East Nusa Tenggara Police. -- JP

Sylvia wants sex education via phone

Sylvia wants sex education via phone P.C. Naommy, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Sylvia Kurniawati Ngonde is part of the small minority that do not own a cell phone. But, her natural curiosity led her to question the popularity of the device among teenagers. Barely half-an-hour passed without a ring-tone penetrating the air, the recipient gazing at their tiny screen, and the earnest patter of fingers as the message was returned.

Can't get pregnant? Bee stings may help

Can't get pregnant? Bee stings may help Slamet Susanto, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Ida Ismiadah, 33, felt a pang of sorrow when her only son begged her for a little brother or sister. In fact Ida had desperately been trying to get pregnant and she felt that time was running out. "I was anxious because I didn't get pregnant, even though my husband and I didn't use contraception.

Celebrating New Year's with new style, record

Celebrating New Year's with new style, record Ivy Susanti The Jakarta Post Jakarta Six models walked out of the business-class cabin -- which had temporarily been transformed into a dressing room -- on a Merpati Nusantara airlines flight from Jakarta to Denpasar. Maintaining their grace was quite some task, unlike stewardesses who are well-seasoned in aisle etiquette, moments of turbulence caused the models to grasp at the nearest passenger's seat.

Borobudur holds interfaith event

Borobudur holds interfaith event MAGELANG, Central Java: Six musical groups from different religious backgrounds are scheduled to take part in an interfaith dialog in the form of clinics, discussions and collaborative performances at Borobudur Temple from Jan. 9 to Jan. 15. The theme of the event will be Nurani dalam Harmoni (Conscience in Harmony).

ASEAN-plus-three meet on int'l crime

ASEAN-plus-three meet on int'l crime THAILAND: Senior officials from ASEAN, China, Japan and South Korea gathered on Friday ahead of a first-ever one-day ministerial meeting between the grouping and its regional neighbors on transnational crime. Saturday's ASEAN-plus-three meeting is aimed at tackling a growing web of transnational crime in the region that includes terrorism, trafficking in people, drugs and arms, sea piracy, money laundering and cyber crime.

Sakura in bloom at the Cibodas Gardens

Sakura in bloom at the Cibodas Gardens Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Bogor, West Java For those who feel like braving the weekend congestion along the road to Puncak, cherry blossoms -- known as sakura trees -- are in bloom at Cibodas Gardens. But unlike Japan, one can also enjoy the blossoms at other times of the year. The head of the Gardens, Holif, said from an initial 32 trees the gardens now has 150, and 12 are in bloom.

Jakarta stocks hit all-time high

Jakarta stocks hit all-time high Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Jakarta Composite Index skyrocketed on Monday to the highest level in the nation's history, as new investors from the United States and Europe entered the market seeking to capitalize on the rising optimism. The Index moved full-throttle ahead and ended up by 22.877 points, or 3.1 percent, at 753.692, the highest since the benchmark index began in 1982.

2003 deficit under control, below target: Govt

2003 deficit under control, below target: Govt The Jakarta Post Jakarta The government posted a state budget deficit in 2003 that was slightly below target, in what Minister of Finance Boediono said on Friday was a reflection of the government's continued fiscal discipline. "In general, the 2003 budget realization was in line with the government's targets," Boediono said.

Activists demand that rights body acts soon

Activists demand that rights body acts soon Dewi Santoso and M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The city administration's policy on transportation development, such as the construction of new elevated roads in 2003 has victimized the urban poor, a group of activists concluded in their year-end evaluation, revealed on Friday.

Haj terminal ready to operate

Haj terminal ready to operate TANGERANG: Minister of Communications Agum Gumelar officiated on Friday the inauguration of the special airport terminal for haj pilgrims at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. It is set to receive pilgrims on Feb. 6. Agum was accompanied by Minister of Religious Affairs Said Agil Al Munawar and the director of airport operator PT Angkasa Pura II, Eddy Haryoto. The 3,750-square-meter terminal was formerly the Indonesian Air Show compound.

Teacher apprehended for alleged link with Azahari

Teacher apprehended for alleged link with Azahari Indra Harsaputra, The Jakarta Post, Surabaya Police have disclosed that activist Adi Suryana has been arrested and is undergoing questioning for his alleged link with wanted terrorist suspect Azahari. East Java Police chief Insp. Gen. Firman Gani said on Friday that Adi was arrested by the antiterrorist team of the National Police headquarters on Friday at dawn. Police suspect Malaysian nationals Azahari and Nurdin M.

BI to increase bank capital requirements 10-fold

BI to increase bank capital requirements 10-fold Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The central bank laid out on Friday a blueprint for the banking sector, which includes higher minimum capital requirements -- a move which could lead to more bank mergers in the future.

Violence in Southern Thailand not likely linked to al Qaeda, JL

Violence in Southern Thailand not likely linked to al Qaeda, JL Jane Macartney, Reuters, Singapore A wave of violence in mainly Muslim southern Thailand is inspired by money and nationalism and shows scant evidence of links to a wider network with Osama bin Laden's al Qaeda and its Jamaah Islamiyah (JI) Asian affiliate.

;JP;kda

;JP;kda JP/7/letter1 Fate of migrant workers in Singapore From Warta Kota The year 2003 saw as many as 20 Indonesian female migrant workers in Singapore fall to their deaths from high-rise apartments where they worked, as was revealed by Fachry Sulaiman, a high-ranking official at the Indonesian Embassy there. How tragic their destinies were, working in distant countries to seek a better life while leaving their families behind hoping that they would succeed.

Riau plans massive bond issue

Riau plans massive bond issue The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Oil-rich Riau province plans to issue bonds this year to boost its financial capability as it is seeking to speed up economic development to bring its people out of poverty. "This is because our original financial capacity is not yet sufficient. The amount (of the bond) is still being calculated, but most likely it will be in the trillions (rupiah)," governor Mohammad Rusli Zainal told reporters on Friday.

Govt neglects child abuse, Seto says

Govt neglects child abuse, Seto says Eva C. Komandjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government's decision to omit from its UN report, allegations of child abuse during the May 1998 upheavals and the ongoing war in Aceh smacks of defiance and misrepresentation, according to a National Commission for Children's Protection (Komnas PA) member. Government representatives will present a periodic report to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child next week in Geneva, Switzerland.

1. STOCK: 2 LINES, 15 COUNTS

1. STOCK: 2 LINES, 15 COUNTS Jakarta stocks hit all-time high 2. SAND: 2 lines, 24 COUNTS President indecisive on sand exportation issue 3. KPU: 1 LINE, 24 COUNTS KPU member gives up car 4. SMOKE: 1 LINE, 30 COUNTS Man's smoking claims wife's life 5. SAKURA: 1 LINE, 34 COUNTS Sakura in bloom at Cibodas Gardens

2003 deficit under control, below target: Government

2003 deficit under control, below target: Government The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government posted a state budget deficit in 2003 that was slightly below target, in what Minister of Finance Boediono said on Friday was a reflection of the government's continued fiscal discipline. "In general, the 2003 budget realization was in line with the government's targets," Boediono said.

Bogor mayor faces chronic problems

Bogor mayor faces chronic problems BOGOR: Bogor city councillor, Beni Mahyudin, urged the next mayor to tackle three perennial problems faced by the municipality: garbage, traffic and street vendors. Beni was speaking after a ceremony to confirm three mayoral candidates. The candidates are the incumbent assistant to the city secretary Diani Budiarto, the incumbent director of Bogor tap water operator Helmi Soetikno and TB Soemandjaja, a legislator with the House of Representatives.

1. JOB: 18 x 3 lines

1. JOB: 18 x 3 lines Unemployment could seriously threaten elections 2. BIN: 21 x 2 lines BIN's potential overlap with Army commands queried 3. GOLKAR: 21 x 2 lines We have fought to combat corruption: Akbar Tandjung 4. DRIVERS: 36 x 1 line Busway project's frontliners feel neglected 5. MAID: 30 x 1 line Teenage Maid killed for stealing food 6. FIRE: 10 x 3 lines Fire razes 300 houses in Jelambar 7. ODD: 22 x 2 lines Polish divers grilled in fish-champagne case

A more civilized approach to eviction

A more civilized approach to eviction Sirojudin Abbas Lecturer State Islamic University (UIN) Jakarta sirojudinabbas@yahoo.ca The Jakarta administration is about to restart the highly controversial eviction program for illegal settlers in Jakarta and street vendors at the end of January 2004. Like those evicted earlier in 2003, those due for eviction in 2004 will face further risks of impoverishment.

'Abu Sayyaf operative' captured in RP

'Abu Sayyaf operative' captured in RP PHILIPPINES: The Philippine military said on Friday it arrested a suspected Muslim militant in the southern Philippines on murder and kidnapping charges. Sonny Boy Hamsain was nabbed by soldiers in Isabela city on Basilan island, the stronghold of the extremist Abu Sayyaf group, said Lt. Col. Fredesvindo Covarrubias, head of the military's civil relations group.

Harlem MagicMasters to play in Indonesia

Harlem MagicMasters to play in Indonesia The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Team Harlem MagicMasters, a New York-based basketball entertainment team, will begin its Indonesian tour at the Kelapa Gading Sports Mall in North Jakarta on Jan. 31, organizers announced here on Friday. The 15-strong touring team is then scheduled to play in Medan at the Pardede Hall on Feb. 2, and in Surabaya at the Kertajaya Sports Hall on Feb. 4.

WINNER OF FIRST PRIZE: Ali Ansari, General Manager of Lor In Solo

WINNER OF FIRST PRIZE: Ali Ansari, General Manager of Lor In Solo Hotel in Surakarta, Central Java (right), hands a Garuda Indonesia Airways Solo-Amsterdam ticket to the winner of the first door prize of the hotel's New Year's celebration party. The recent celebration was held in the five-star hotel's Puri Kencono Ballroom and included various entertainment events, such as a live band performance, fashion show, house DJ, and disco dancing.

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Jan.9, 2004

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Jan.9, 2004 ____________________________________________________________________________ Shares Close Change Trading Volume _____________________________________________________________________________ Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 1,025 0 20,000 Adindo Foresta 50 0 0 AGIS Tbk 95 0 172,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 90 0 1,330,500 Alakasa Industrindo 205 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 1,250 0 0 Alter Abadi Tbk 35 -5 650,000 Alumindo Light 240...

Defending the environment for God

Defending the environment for God Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Her love of God has led Sarma Siregar to jail. But the softly spoken lady has never regretted it. "That is the consequence if you decide to serve God with full commitment," she told The Jakarta Post during an interview recently.

Garuda to lease up to 15 new aircraft in 2004 to boost flights

Garuda to lease up to 15 new aircraft in 2004 to boost flights P.C. Naommy, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta National flag carrier Garuda Indonesia has leased two extra aircraft and plans to lease another eight to 13 planes this year to support their domestic and regional operations.

Robbers nabbed after 5-month search

Robbers nabbed after 5-month search JAKARTA: A team of officers from the Jakarta Police arrested two suspected robbers after a five-month search for the pair. Adj. Comr. Matrido, the head of the team, said on Friday police arrested Suparjo at the Tanjung Priok bus terminal in North Jakarta on Tuesday morning. information from the suspect enabled police to apprehend Jumadi at the Palmeriam market in Matraman, East Jakarta, later that day.

Unemployment could seriously threaten elections

Unemployment could seriously threaten elections Ridwan Max Sijabat, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Manpower and Transmigration Minister Jacob Nuwa Wea said on Friday that the number of unemployed people would increase by about 2.5 million to over 45 million this year. He added that the millions of unemployed could pose a serious threat to political stability and the elections if no measures were taken to help cope with it.

Makbul says police shooting an accident

Makbul says police shooting an accident JAKARTA: City Police chief Insp. Gen. Makbul Padmanegara said Friday that the shooting of two undercover policemen from the National Police drug squad was purely an accident. "The ongoing investigation of the Central Jakarta policeman who shot the two revealed no indication that they had been backed by a drug dealer, nor that there had been a setup to sink the operation," he said.

Where to go in Yogyakarta: Saturday, January 10, 2004

Where to go in Yogyakarta: Saturday, January 10, 2004 Exhibitions * Drawing Penggeli Hati at Bentara Budaya Yogyakarta, Jl. Suroto 2 Kotabaru (Tel./fax: 0274-560404), until Jan. 18. * Fine art by six Chinese artists at Bentara Budaya Yogyakarta, Jl. Suroto 2 Kotabaru (Tel./fax: 0274-560404), Jan. 21 - 28. * Fine art Small Life Sweetener by Ye Shufang at Cemeti Art House, Jl.

Disasters, state violence worsen in 2004: Walhi

Disasters, state violence worsen in 2004: Walhi A. Junaidi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A respected non-governmental organization predicted on Friday a gloomy outlook of the country's environment, forecasting increasing natural disasters and continued violence directed against tribespeople. Indonesian Environmental Forum (Walhi) executive director Longgena Ginting predicted that disasters such as floods and landslides would affect even more areas across the country this year.

More delays in busway start-up looming

More delays in busway start-up looming Urip Hudiono and Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Tangerang/Jakarta The question whether the launch of the city's controversial busway project will be delayed surfaced yet again when head of the Jakarta Transportation Agency, Rustam Effendi, contradicted a recent statement by Governor Sutiyoso, saying that the project would definitely start operating according to plan on Jan. 15.

'I won't go run crazy over mad cow rumors'

'I won't go run crazy over mad cow rumors' Although there is no evidence that beef contaminated with mad cow disease has entered the country, the central government has taken a number of precautionary measures, including the conducting of inspections in supermarkets and traditional markets. The Jakarta Post talked to some people about whether they thought this was enough. Dani, 30, works for a company in Central Jakarta.

We have fought to combat corruption: Akbar Tandjung

We have fought to combat corruption: Akbar Tandjung A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta While highlighting improvements in the economy and national stability as its main platforms, the Golkar Party has vowed not to snub the increasingly louder anticorruption voices during the upcoming election campaign. "It's a matter of accentuation. In fact, we have fought and will always combat corruption," Golkar chairman Akbar Tandjung stated during a meeting with The Jakarta Post on Thursday.

Antithuggery team established

Antithuggery team established YOGYAKARTA: In response to a concerning rise in violent crimes in the city, the Yogyakarta City Police have formed a special antithuggery team to deal with the problem. Comprising over 50 police officers from the Buser (mobile detective unit) team and the violence and crime eradication team, the antithuggery unit will be armed with special strategies and ways of dealing with thugs. "Of course we will not reveal the strategies.

RI, Australia have common destiny

RI, Australia have common destiny Sitting here in Kupang, Indonesia, West Timor, I reflect on my holiday, fast drawing to an end. Christmas, a festival shared in this city by Christians and Muslims alike, was attested to by the eclectic mix of followers of all religions thronging the new Ramayana shopping mall, sharing the festive season. Idul Fitri, the Muslim festival was also enjoyed by the devotees of all faiths, both in the public and private sectors.

Absenteeism still rife among legislators

Absenteeism still rife among legislators Kurniawan Hari The Jakarta Post Jakarta People's Consultative Assembly Speaker Amien Rais and President Megawati Soekarnoputri's husband Taufik Kiemas top the list of lawmakers who rarely or never attended House of Representatives' meetings over the past year, a parliamentary forum revealed.

TV Today: Saturday, January 10, 2004

TV Today: Saturday, January 10, 2004 TVRI 6:00 a.m. News: Berita Pagi 7:30 Cartoon 10:00 TV Drama 11:30 Battle of Wits 12:30 p.m. Music 1:00 News: Berita Siang 1:30 Documentary 2:00 Music 2:30 English News Service 3:00 Science and Technology 3:30 News 4:00 Indonesian Film 7:00 News 8:00 Quiz: Tau Sok Tau 9:00 News: Dunia Dalam Berita 10:00 Film 12:00 a.m. Shadow Puppet TPI 6:00 a.m.

'Thek-thek' groups spice up campaigns

'Thek-thek' groups spice up campaigns Agus Maryono and Amin A Abdurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Banyumas, Central Java The general election is only four months away, and political parties have started campaigning in the villages. Traditional thek-thek bamboo music groups in Banyumas regency, which use kentongan made from bamboo tubes, as the main instrument, have attracted the attention of the major parties.

Bloomberg

Bloomberg Jakarta PT United Tractors won approval from a majority of creditors for its plans to reorganize US$268 million of debt, director Buntoro Muljono said. "Almost 100 percent have stated their approval verbally, but some of them have yet to submit their support in writing," Muljono said.

Australia to aid flood victims

Australia to aid flood victims JAKARTA: The Australian government will provide A$100,000 to help victims of flooding in Sumatra and Sulawesi and assist the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in handling further flood emergencies expected over the next few weeks. Australia's contribution is in response to the Indonesian Floods 2004 emergency appeal, launched by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The funds will be channeled through the Australian Red Cross.

Loan scandal hits Bank Mandiri

Loan scandal hits Bank Mandiri MAGELANG, Central Java: Some Rp 24 billion (US$2.8 million) has been embezzled from Bank Mandiri's Magelang branch, adding yet another scandal to Indonesia's bank industry. "Three people have been named suspects, and they are being questioned by the police," said Insp. Gen. Didi Widayadi, the chief of Central Java Police, on Friday.

Police award security certificates to hotels in Bali

Police award security certificates to hotels in Bali Wahyoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali Bali Police chief Insp. Gen. Made Mangku Pastika handed over on Friday safety and security certificates to 34 four- and five- star hotels, after a one-month evaluation on security and safety by the police.

HK still world's freest economy: Survey

HK still world's freest economy: Survey Helen Luk, Associated Press, Hong Kong Hong Kong remains the world's freest economy, but the Asia- Pacific region overall became more tightly controlled economically during the last year, according to a survey released on Friday. It was the 10th consecutive year that Hong Kong has topped the annual survey by the Heritage Foundation and the Wall Street Journal because of its low regulations and low taxes.

WHO expects more SARS scares: Many more suspected SARS cases are

WHO expects more SARS scares: Many more suspected SARS cases are likely emerge because the symptoms match those of common winter diseases, the World Health Organization said on Friday as it investigated the latest case to surface in China. A 20-year-old waitress in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province, is suspected of having deadly Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. Her case surfaced days after China confirmed its first SARS infection since last year. -- Reuters U.S.

* Headlines: Bush wants to send Americans to Mars, Moon 2

* Headlines: Bush wants to send Americans to Mars, Moon 2 * National: Police fail to pick Beddu Amang 4 * Archipelago: Probe on human rights in Papua to begin 5 * Opinion: Stopping bioterrorism before it starts 7 * City: Officials still unsure about busway launch 8 * Sports: Gunners face test of nerve against Middlesbrough 9 * World: Palestinians could call for bi-national state 11 * Business: Government to name underwriters for bond 16 * Features: Can't get pregnant? Bee stings may help 17

Absenteeism rife among legislators

Absenteeism rife among legislators Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta People's Consultative Assembly Speaker Amien Rais and President Megawati Soekarnoputri's husband Taufik Kiemas top the list of lawmakers who rarely or never attended House of Representatives' meetings over the past year, a parliamentary forum revealed.

'Harry Potter' book to hit the streets on Sunday

'Harry Potter' book to hit the streets on Sunday The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Die-hard Harry Potter fans are preparing to take to the streets to grab a copy of Harry Potter dan Orde Phoenix (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix) -- if they can stay up until the wee hours of Sunday morning.

Save the country from ruin

Save the country from ruin From Suara Karya Members of the political elite in responsible positions are holders of a public mandate who should bring about improvements for the nation. Their policies should therefore benefit the interests of the public at large. The handling of national economic and security issues, however, have caused widespread disappointment so that the public are now skeptical about all policies adopted by the government.

Teenage Maid killed for stealing food

Teenage Maid killed for stealing food Multa Fidrus, The Jakarta Post, Tangerang Having worked as a domestic helper for three years with a family did not make 15-year-old Mulyati wealthy. Instead, she apparently had to steal food from her employers because she was hungry. The maid angered her employers Yeni Vera Simorangkir, 41, and her son Oslan Siahaan, 18. The two allegedly beat Mulyati to death for her transgressions.

President Megawati indecisive on sand exportation issue

President Megawati indecisive on sand exportation issue Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Riau Governor Mohamad Rusli and Minister of Maritime and Fishery Rokhmin Dahuri competed on Friday for President Megawati Soekarnoputri's endorsement of their opposite stances over the sea sand export policy to Singapore.

Security tight prior to hostages' release

Security tight prior to hostages' release Nani Farida, The Jakarta Post, Langsa, Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam The military has tightened security along the main road between Lhokseumawe and Langsa, East Aceh ahead of the release of hostages held by rebels, including RCTI private television station cameraman Fery Santoro. TNI officers and tanks were seen on Friday stopping buses and checking passengers' identification cards every two kilometers along the main road.

Forki to send eight athletes to Asian event

Forki to send eight athletes to Asian event Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Eight Indonesia athletes will be traveling to the upcoming Asian Karate Federation Championships, while the national karate- do association, Forki, has set itself far-reaching goals for the 2006 Asian Games. The Asian federation championships are scheduled to be staged in Chinese Taipei from Feb. 3 to Feb. 9.

Indonesia cannot meet Internet target

Indonesia cannot meet Internet target Sari P. Setiogi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government unveiled on Friday its new strategy to boost Internet use in the country, but admitted that it would be impossible for Indonesia to meet the targets set at the recent World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).

Problematic beef

Problematic beef Beef from the United States has been permitted to enter Indonesia, despite the possibility that it is contaminated with mad-cow disease. The mass entry of imported beef from the U.S. could mean that the public might be faced with a lot of problematic beef in markets across the country. At present, some 48 containers of beef are awaiting a decision from Indonesia's agriculture ministry and quarantine board.

PDI-P to eschew rallies

PDI-P to eschew rallies JAKARTA: Apparently learning from the accusations of election violations against rival parties, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan), has said it would opt to celebrate its 31st anniversary in a modest way. PDI Perjuangan secretary-general Soetjipto said the anniversary would be celebrated by the party members at an indoor event. In the past, such events were held outdoors and involved thousands of party supporters.

Singaporean's death fall probably accidental

Singaporean's death fall probably accidental Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The death of DBS Vickers Securities Indonesia director, Peter Soh, who fell from his 32nd floor apartment, was very likely a tragic accident instead of suicide, according to police. "We've gathered information from his office and it said that the victim performed well at work. He did not have any problems with colleagues and also did not have any financial problems," chief of Tebet Police subprecinct, Comr.

Govt to soon name global bond's lead underwriters

Govt to soon name global bond's lead underwriters The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is pressing ahead with its sovereign bonds issue plans, saying it had received proposals from 14 investment banks to underwrite the issue and would name the lead underwriters in less than two weeks. "We'll decide on the lead underwriters by Jan. 20," Herwidayatmo, a member of a government team assigned to prepare the issue, was quoted as saying by Dow Jones on Friday.

S. Korea warned of threats in SE Asia

S. Korea warned of threats in SE Asia THAILAND: South Korea's embassy in Thailand has received a warning of attacks on the country's official and private property and aircraft in Southeast Asia, Thai and South Korean officials said on Friday. The threatening message was received on Thursday from a group calling itself the "Anti-Korean Interest Agency," a Foreign Ministry official told Reuters in Seoul.

Court to decide on Akbar soon

Court to decide on Akbar soon JAKARTA: The Supreme Court expects to deliver its much-awaited decision at the end of this month on the appeal by House Speaker Akbar Tandjung against his conviction on graft charges. Justice Abdurrahman Saleh, a member of the panel of judges hearing the case, said on Friday that the panel would hold discussions before regrouping for a final decision. "Hopefully at the end of January," he told reporters when asked when the court's decision would be handed down.

Celebrating New Year with new style, record

Celebrating New Year with new style, record Ivy Susanti, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Six models walked out of the business-class cabin -- which had temporarily been transformed into a dressing room -- on a Merpati Nusantara airlines flight from Jakarta to Denpasar. Maintaining their grace was quite some task, unlike stewardesses who are well-seasoned in aisle etiquette, moments of turbulence caused the models to grasp at the nearest passenger's seat.

Probe on human rights abuse in Papua to begin

Probe on human rights abuse in Papua to begin Nethy Dharma Somba , The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua An ad hoc team with the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) will probe alleged gross violations of human rights in the province of Papua. The 15-member team, headed by Komnas HAM member Anshari Thayib, will begin its inquiry on Jan. 12, when eight members of the team arrive in Papua from Jakarta.

Trisakti bosses told to quit

Trisakti bosses told to quit M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The former management of private Trisakti University demanded that the university's current authorities step aside, saying they had the law on their side in this power struggle for control of the institution. K.

Sari P. Setiogi

Sari P. Setiogi The Jakarta Post Jakarta The government unveiled on Friday its new strategy to boost Internet use in the country, but admitted that it would be impossible for Indonesia to meet the targets set at the recent World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). The WSIS, the first global conference on the Internet, which was held in Geneva in December, set targets that include ensuring that over 50 percent of the citizens in each country should have access to the Internet by 2015.

Bylaw on women trafficking takes effect

Bylaw on women trafficking takes effect MANADO, North Sulawesi: The North Sulawesi Legislative Council enacted on Thursday a bylaw dealing with women trafficking and violence against children. A.J. Sondakh, the governor of North Sulawesi, in his speech after the bylaw was hammered out, said that it was the first bylaw in Indonesia that banned women trafficking and violence against children.

Man's smoking claims his wife's life

Man's smoking claims his wife's life Multa Fidrus, The Jakarta Post, Tangerang In an apparent desperate protest against her husband's smoking, a 25-year-old resident of Kadu Jaya village, Curug district, Tangerang regency, set herself ablaze on Friday. She died later in hospital of severe burns. The husband recalled that earlier in the day he had smoked in front of his wife, who became very upset. The wife, identified as Sumiati, then went to the kitchen and came back with kerosene and matches.

1. 1 x 30

1. 1 x 30 Absenteeism rife among legislators 2. 1 x 50 Police fail to question Beddu as his whereabouts unknown 3. 2 x 30 Disasters, state violence to worsen in 2004: Walhi r 4. 3 x 16 'Govt has failed to address child abuse problems' 5. 2 x 23 Police arrest activist for alleged link with Azahari

Ministers launch tree planting program

Ministers launch tree planting program YOGYAKARTA: To mark the prelaunch of the National Movement on Forest and Land Rehabilitation (GNRHL), five ministers symbolically planted trees on the shoulder of a road in Yogyakarta. They are Coordinating Minister for People's Welfare Jusuf Kalla, State Minister of the Environment Nabiel Makarim, Minister of Forestry M. Prakoso, Minister of National Education Malik Fajar and Minister of Resettlement and Regional Infrastructure Soenarno.

Stepping up bilateral ties

Stepping up bilateral ties The high priority that Malaysia gives to relations with our ASEAN partners is reflected in the Prime Minister's visit to Indonesia, the second leg of his ASEAN tour, the first being Brunei Darussalam last month. There are no long-standing problems that needed to be resolved by Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in Jakarta, with the possible exception of the issue of Indonesian migrants.