Archive: 16 January 2004
82 articles found
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Urgent need for garbage laws
Urgent need for garbage laws JAKARTA: Waste management expert Sri Bebassari on Thursday called for an immediate drafting of a waste management law to solve the myriad of waste problems the country faced. She said the drafting of waste management laws in other countries involved numerous state departments because of the importance of the problem. "The waste law in Japan was drafted by 15 ministers. This shows a serious attention into the issue," Sri said.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
AirAsia this week launched its budget air travel operation
AirAsia this week launched its budget air travel operation with a bang. It is offering a rock-bottom promotional fare of Bt99 for a one-way trip to any of the major domestic destinations, including Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai and Khon Kaen. The promotional fare -- which actually goes up to about Bt250 when taxes and fees are added -- is unheard of in this country, where air travel until now has been a luxury beyond the means of the great majority.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Activists arrive at anti-globalization gathering
Activists arrive at anti-globalization gathering Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Mumbai, India About 70 Indonesian delegates arrived in Mumbai, India, on Thursday to join tens of thousands of activists from around the world at the World Social Forum 2004, which aims to create a fairer form of globalization. The WSF 2004, which officially opens on Friday, is the fourth of its kind and the first to be held in Asia. The conference finishes on Jan. 21.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Rp 100m check missing in Maluku
Rp 100m check missing in Maluku AMBON, Maluku: The Maluku provincial administration's social welfare agency is in hot water after a bank check worth Rp 100 million (US$11,765) went missing from its safe. The money had been provided by the Ministry of Social Affairs and was supposed to be used to finance the construction of water treatment facilities in Salahutu district, Central Maluku regency.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Bukit Asam sales to grow by 6% this year
Bukit Asam sales to grow by 6% this year Rendi A. Witular The Jakarta Post Jakarta State-owned firm, PT Tambang Batubara Bukit Asam, the country's fifth largest coal mining company, forecasts the revenue from sales will increase by 6 percent this year on the back of higher demand and prices.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
KPU car purchase under scrutiny
KPU car purchase under scrutiny JAKARTA: The newly launched Indonesia Procurement Watch (IPW) said on Thursday that it had detected indications of irregularities in the purchase of cars for members of the General Elections Commission (KPU) and vowed to launch an investigation into the process. The watchdog claimed that the car procurement was not in line with either the guidelines or Presidential Decree No. 80/2003 on procurement.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
KPU car purchases under scrutiny
KPU car purchases under scrutiny Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The newly launched Indonesia Procurement Watch (IPW) said on Thursday that it had detected indications of irregularities in the purchase of cars for members of the General Elections Commission (KPU) and vowed to launch an investigation into the process. The watchdog claimed that the car procurement was not in line with either the guidelines or Presidential Decree No.80/2003 on procurement.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
GAM's credibility
GAM's credibility From Media Indonesia The Indonesian government's attempt to free soon television cameraman Ferry Santoro and around 70 others now being held hostage by the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) deserves appreciation. In this case, the safety of the hostages should be given priority and the political interests of both parties be temporarily brushed aside, so that no conditions or concessions in any form are imposed on the negotiations.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
1. MONKEE 1x40
1. MONKEE 1x40 Monkee goes to Broadway and sings Elton John 2. AFGHAN 1x50 Female Afghans back on screen, break Taliban taboo
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Astra '03 new vehicle sales up 3.3%
Astra '03 new vehicle sales up 3.3% JAKARTA: PT Astra International, the largest automotive company, on Thursday said its new vehicle sales, including exports to neighboring countries, rose 3.3 percent in 2003 to 182,555 units. The company sold 176,752 cars in 2002. Astra sold 147,074 new vehicles in Indonesia last year, capturing nearly a 42 percent market share. A total 354,333 new vehicles were sold in the country in 2003, compared with 318,257 in 2002.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
'SCTV' asks time for defense
'SCTV' asks time for defense JAKARTA: The defense team for private television station SCTV asked for more time on Thursday to prepare their arguments to counter the lawsuit filed by the station's former producer Dandhy Dwi Laksono. "We need to rewrite our defense in accordance with the latest rules made by the Jakarta Committee for the Settlement of Labor Disputes," lawyer Marisa Iskandar said. She declined to elaborate further.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Asia Foundation democracy survey
Asia Foundation democracy survey The Jakarta Post has twice referred to The Asia Foundation survey, Democracy in Indonesia: A Survey of the Indonesian Electorate 2003. While we strongly appreciate your coverage, we regret that the Post has made a narrow reading of the survey that emphasizes only one finding: That Indonesian voters long for a strong leader (first covered in the Post on Dec. 9, 2003, as Voters hope for strong leader, survey finds).
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Two more Papuans get 20 years for arsenal theft
Two more Papuans get 20 years for arsenal theft The Wamena District Court sentenced on Thursday two more civilians to 20 years in prison each for their roles in breaking into a military arsenal in Wamena last year and stealing rifles and ammunition. The two, among the seven defendants in the case, were identified as Michael Haselo and Apot Nagolik. They were the last two defendants to be sentenced in the case.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Revised version of tax law feared to worsen corruption
Revised version of tax law feared to worsen corruption Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The revised versions of three tax law amendment bills drafted by the Directorate General of Taxation are far from what many had been expecting as they still left the door wide open for corruption, according to a business leader and an economist.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Police confirm Sjahril, Ary Suta, Cacuk, Toto corruption suspects
Police confirm Sjahril, Ary Suta, Cacuk, Toto corruption suspects Sandy Darmosumarto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After days of confusion over the legal status of Sjahril Sabirin, I Putu Gede Ary Suta, Cacuk Sudarijanto and Toto Budiarso, National Police chief of detectives Comr. Gen. Erwin Mappaseng said on Thursday that the four had been declared suspects in the Account No. 502 graft case.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Scaled-down UN mission in East Timor
Scaled-down UN mission in East Timor EAST TIMOR: A UN assessment team expects to recommend a scaled- down UN mission remain in East Timor when its current mandate expires in May, the head of the team said on Thursday. "I think what we're likely to recommend is a smaller, more compact (mission) and with no executive authority," Julian Harston, Asia-Middle East director of the United Nations' Department of Peacekeeping Operations, said in an interview with AFP.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
JP/13/Stock
JP/13/Stock RI shares end mixed, but index up at new high Dow Jones Jakarta Indonesian shares ended mixed on Thursday, but gains in selected blue chips pushed the main index to a fresh all-time closing high, dealers said. Investors continued accumulating cigarette and banking stocks, but profit-taking dragged telecommunications blue chips down along with other small stocks, they said. Underlying sentiment, however, remains positive due to a fall in interest rates.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Indonesians upbeat about Aviva finals
Indonesians upbeat about Aviva finals The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Happy Soediyono and her Indonesian teammate in the men's division Ryan Lalisang have expressed confidence about their prospects in the grand slam final series of Asia's prestigious Aviva Asian Bowling Tour at the Safra Resort Bowl in Singapore, which started on Thursday. "We are optimistic about the match. We will do our best and keep ourselves focused on the game," she said in a release here on Thursday.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Pushing toward change
Pushing toward change As the legislative elections on April 5 draw closer, fears of a reemergence of authoritarian rule in the style of the corruption-riddled New Order regime of deposed president Soeharto appear to be gaining in strength among the doomsayers in Indonesia's prodemocracy movement. And, to be sure, a few signals that have appeared in recent weeks seem to give at least some ground for such gloom.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
;JP;
;JP; ANPAf..r.. Boediono-bond-underwriter Govt starts selection of bond underwriters JP/13/Bond Govt starts selection of bond underwriters The Jakarta Post Jakarta The Ministry of Finance started on Thursday the selection of underwriters for a planned international bond issuance, which will be the country's first sovereign bond issue since the late 1990s financial crisis. Minister of Finance Boediono said that six underwriting firms participated in the first round of the two-day "beauty contest.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Year 2003 was good and 2004 should be even better
Year 2003 was good and 2004 should be even better David Chang, Market Analyst, Jakarta The year 2003 turned out to be better-than-expected for the economy and the outlook for 2004 appears to be even better. Being an election year, 2004 may see some volatility in the bond and equity markets, but the domestic economy is likely to benefit from the lengthy election process. While Asian stock markets are likely to be upbeat during the first half of 2004, boosted by signs of U.S.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
JP/19/BANGKA
JP/19/BANGKA Hakka Chinese at the tip of Bangka Island Hakka Chinese survive the past, face bleak future Haidir Anwar Tanjung The Jakarta Post Pangkalpinang, Bangka Belitung Two years ago Bangka and Belitung (commonly known by the abbreviation Babel) islands were inaugurated as a new province, with Pangkalpinang on Bangka island, where tin is abundant, as the provincial capital.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Sick judge delays verdict
Sick judge delays verdict JAKARTA: The verdict on the high-profile libel suit filed against the Koran Tempo daily by businessman Tomy Winata has been delayed until Tuesday because the presiding judge was absent. "Presiding judge Zoeber Djajadi is not feeling well," South Jakarta District Court panel member Samsul Ali told a courtroom packed with reporters on Thursday. He would not comment on what ailed Zoeber, the court's chief judge. The court adjourned the hearing until Tuesday.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
40 million poor to get free health services
40 million poor to get free health services Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The country's 40 million poor people may enjoy free health services if a bill drafted by the government gets the nod from members of the House of Representatives (DPR). The bill, which is soon to be submitted to the House for deliberation, suggests that the government allocate up to Rp 3 trillion (US$360 million) annually to pay health insurance premiums for the country's poor.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
PKB hopes to benefit from its pluralist perspective
PKB hopes to benefit from its pluralist perspective Rais Hidayat, Research and Development Unit, The Jakarta Post Compared to other Muslim-based political parties, the National Awakening Party (PKB) has a reputation among non-Muslim and minority groups as an inclusive and tolerant political party, although the National Mandate Party (PAN) is also accommodating of minority groups, as reflected in the presence of non-Muslim legislators in the party led by Amien Rais.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Indonesian Military rejects reports on militia infiltration
Indonesian Military rejects reports on militia infiltration Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara A senior Indonesian Military (TNI) commander in Kupang denied on Thursday recent reports in several local media that 78 armed pro- Indonesia militiamen have infiltrated Timor Leste (formerly East Timor) and were ready to stir up chaos there after UN troops have pulled out of the neighboring country in May.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
1. PUPUD -- 1 x 35
1. PUPUD -- 1 x 35 Pupud Saripudin, a dedicated driver Urip Hudiono The Jakarta Post Jakarta Becoming part of the intensely discussed busway project is more than just a question of pride or making a better livelihood for a bus driver like Pupud Saripudin. It is a chance to show the public that a bus driver too understands what that sacred word professionalism means -- a conviction born out of his concern about the widespread impression that Jakarta's bus drivers are reckless and lawless.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Forestry office accused of corruption
Forestry office accused of corruption Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung The West Java forestry office has been accused of misusing around Rp 4.2 billion (more than US$500,000) allocated for reforestation in an area on the slopes of Mount Mandalawangi in Garut regency.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Sultan hints at graceful exit from Golkar convention series
Sultan hints at graceful exit from Golkar convention series Slamet Susanto, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Yogyakarta Governor Sultan Hamengkubuwono X hinted on Thursday that he may withdraw from the Golkar Party's convention to select a presidential candidate. Sultan said he had formed a special team to gauge the real support from Golkar constituents for his presidential bid. The team is expected to complete its job after his visit to Aceh at the end of next month.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Flood inundates 3,000 houses in Subang
Flood inundates 3,000 houses in Subang SUBANG, West Java: More than 3,000 houses in Pamanukan district have been flooded since Wednesday, forcing thousands of residents to take refuge elsewhere. The flooding occurred after heavy rain hit the area on Wednesday. As a result, the Batanggede river burst its banks. The Cigadung river also burst its banks, further exacerbating the situation.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
'Rakyat' in dock as big guns try to sink it
'Rakyat' in dock as big guns try to sink it M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The entire board of 16 editors of the national daily Rakyat Merdeka, including the sports section, stood trial on Thursday at the Central Jakarta District Court in a libel suit filed by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Rini MS Soewandi.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Carousel of intrigue as fairground ouster proceeds
Carousel of intrigue as fairground ouster proceeds Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The removal of the management of the Jakarta Fairground in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, proceeded peacefully on Thursday amid fears that it could possibly turn violent.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Graft at religious affairs ministry
Graft at religious affairs ministry From Warta Kota It is good news that the Graft Eradication Commission has resolved to eradicate graft at the religious affairs ministry, which, according to the Finance and Development Supervisory Board (BPKP), is the most corrupt ministry in the country. In this context, the commission should begin its investigation with haj affairs. Reportedly, a middle-ranking official at the ministry can become very wealthy and afford to drive a BMW to the office.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Surabaya to launch commuter train
Surabaya to launch commuter train ID Nugroho, The Jakarta Post, Surabaya The Surabaya administration held a trial-run for an inner-city commuter train on Thursday, the same day the Jakarta administration launched its controversial busway project. The trial began at about 8:30 a.m., when the train left Surabaya heading to Sidoarjo city, passing several train stations.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Busway launch big attraction
Busway launch big attraction Urip Hudiono and Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Several minor flaws in the initial implementation of the TransJakarta Busway did not deter enthusiastic Jakartans from personally trying out the brand-new air-conditioned buses on Thursday for a free ride along the 12.9-kilometer route from Blok M in South Jakarta to Kota in West Jakarta.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Landslide bylaw to be issued
Landslide bylaw to be issued Nana Rukmana, The Jakarta Post, Kuningan, West Java The Kuningan regental administration will soon issue a bylaw that will prohibit local residents from building permanent houses in several landslide-prone areas. The policy aims to protect residents from the dangers of landslides, which occur nearly every year. "The legislative council has given its approval.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
BPPT designs new waste management process
BPPT designs new waste management process Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT) proposed on Thursday a more profitable garbage management system to the Jakarta administration to replace the current treatment methods which are inferior and inadequate.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
[b]Presidential race easy,
Presidential race easy, while corruption a tonic Kornelius Purba Staff Writer The Jakarta Post Jakarta korpur@yahoo.com 2. Chang -- Bull market in the making 2 X 30 Year 2003 was good and 2004 should be even better David Chang Market Analyst Jakarta
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Presidential race easy, while corruption a tonic
Presidential race easy, while corruption a tonic Kornelius Purba, Staff Writer, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta korpur@yahoo.com Other nations, even those who claim to be true champions of democracy, may be jealous of Indonesia, especially in the case of presidential elections and the handling of corruption. Indonesia has set an example to the world of how to give every citizen the opportunity to become president.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
;JP;TON;
;JP;TON; ANPAf..r.. drug-ED-Cialis New drug for impotence to hit market in Indonesia JP/14/drug1 New drug for impotence to hit market in Indonesia Tony Hotland The Jakarta Post Jakarta Competition among erectile dysfunction (ED) drug producers in Indonesia is likely to get stiffer as a new drug, reported to sustain an erection for as long as 36 hours, enters the market. U.S.-based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and drug producer ICOS Corp.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
New drug for impotence to hit market in Indonesia
New drug for impotence to hit market in Indonesia Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Competition among erectile dysfunction (ED) drug producers in Indonesia is likely to get stiffer as a new drug, reported to sustain an erection for as long as 36 hours, enters the market. U.S.-based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and drug producer ICOS Corp. are set on launching their own ED drug, Cialis, in the country by the end of the first quarter at the latest.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
1. BUSWAY: 1 LINE, 23 COUNTS
1. BUSWAY: 1 LINE, 23 COUNTS Busway launch successful 2. TAX: 2 LINES, 18 COUNTS New tax law could increase corruption 3. POLICE: 2 LINES, 16 COUNTS Moonlighting cops arrested for assault
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Taspen to up stake in Kesejahteraan
Taspen to up stake in Kesejahteraan The Jakarta Post, Jakarta State-owned pension firm PT Taspen plans to boost its stake in Bank Kesejahteraan from the current 10 percent, company president Achmad Subianto said on Thursday. "We have proposed to the Minister of Finance an increase in our shares in the bank so that it could become the bank for government employees," he was quoted by Antara as saying.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
PDS to lead by moral example for new nation
PDS to lead by moral example for new nation Sari P. Setiogi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta As a new, small party that relies on support from minority groups, the Prosperous Peace Party (PDS) vows not to play second fiddle in national politics, but to take the lead as a moral force. PDS chairman and presidential candidate Ruyandi Hutasoit said on Thursday that the party proposed to remedy the ailing nation by leading by example in upholding ethics. "We start within ourselves.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Judges denied access to houses
Judges denied access to houses TANGERANG: Judges newly posted at the Tangerang District Court have complained about the shortage of housing facilities, saying eight of the 13 the official houses were taken up by retired judges or those working outside the area. "I spend Rp 300,000 (US$35) for my monthly house rent fee," said the district court spokesman, Ade Komarudin, on Wednesday.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Gedong villagers endure tought times, hardship
Gedong villagers endure tought times, hardship Haidir Anwar Tanjung, The Jakarta Post, Pangkalpinang, Bangka Belitung Two years ago Bangka and Belitung (commonly known by the abbreviation Babel) islands were inaugurated as a new province, with Pangkalpinang on Bangka island, where tin is abundant, as the provincial capital. If you happen to be on Bangka island, you will hear a unique story about a village where only residents of Chinese origin dwell.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Twenty years sought for GAM leader
Twenty years sought for GAM leader The prosecution requested on Thursday a 20-year sentence for a Free Aceh Movement (GAM) separatist leader charged with masterminding the bomb blasts last May at the Medan mayor's office and a gas pipeline in Belawan, North Sumatra. No casualties were recorded in the blasts. The prosecution told the Medan District Court that the defendant, Manaf Abdi, alias Abu Hendon, 61, a resident of West Langsa, North Aceh district, was most responsible for the bombings.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
'Leaders should come from different groups'
'Leaders should come from different groups' JAKARTA: Indonesia's President and vice president should come from different ethnic groups to ensure the leadership reflected the country's cultural diversity, constitutional law expert Sri Soemantri said on Thursday This idea could be incorporated into the amended Constitution as part of its revision process, he said.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Criticism over GAM hostages worries Megawati
Criticism over GAM hostages worries Megawati Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri regretted on Thursday criticism against the government over its handling of civilian hostages held by the separatist Free Aceh Movement (GAM). In a meeting with the executive board of the government-backed Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI), Megawati said it was unfair to say that the government had done little to secure the release of civilian hostages.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
'Busway is good, but won't last'
'Busway is good, but won't last' The launch of the controversial busway project, not unexpectedly, attracted thousands of Jakartans to take a free ride from Blok M, South Jakarta, to Kota, West Jakarta, along the special traffic- free lane. Some commuters The Jakarta Post spoke to found the busway had its advantages, but also liabilities. Dede Syahputra, 42, works at a courier company in Tomang, Central Jakarta.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
PT DI, workers offered last chance to negotiate
PT DI, workers offered last chance to negotiate Ridwan Max Sijabat, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Central Committee for Settlements of Labor Disputes (P4P) asked on Thursday that the management and 6,600 dismissed workers of ailing aircraft manufacturer PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PT DI) go back to the negotiating table for a solution.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Holding company to manage IBRA's unsold asset
Holding company to manage IBRA's unsold asset Fabiola Desy Unidjaja and Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government will set up one holding company, instead of three as previously reported, to take over assets that remain unsold by the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA) by the time its term expires next month.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Twenty years sought for GAM leader
Twenty years sought for GAM leader The prosecution requested on Thursday a 20-year sentence for a Free Aceh Movement (GAM) separatist leader charged with masterminding the bomb blasts last May at the Medan mayor's office and a gas pipeline in Belawan, North Sumatra. No casualties were recorded in the blasts. The prosecution told the Medan District Court that the defendant, Manaf Abdi, alias Abu Hendon, 61, a resident of West Langsa, North Aceh district, was most responsible for the bombings.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
1. JOURNALIST: 48 pt, 3 cols, 3 x 18
1. JOURNALIST: 48 pt, 3 cols, 3 x 18 Criticisms over GAM hostages worries Mega 2. SCANDAL: 36 pt, 4 cols, 2 x 28 Police confirm Sjahril, Ary, Cacuk, Toto graft suspects 3. PDS: 30 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 23 PDS to lead by moral example for new nation 4. BOXER: 28 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 40 Moses' condition improving: Coach 5. BII: 30 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 27 BII plans to increase consumer, commercial lending 6. ODD: 20 pt, 2 cols, 1 x 28 6.1: Man swallows toothbrush 6.2: Italians to set new kissing record
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Malaysian leader to visit Thailand
Malaysian leader to visit Thailand MALAYSIA: Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will be making an official visit to Thailand on Jan. 16 as part of a regional familiarization trip and to boost bilateral ties, the government announced on Thursday. Abdullah, who took over from veteran leader Mahathir Mohamad on Oct. 31, will hold talks with his counterpart Thaksin Shinawatra, the foreign ministry said in a statement to the Bernama news agency.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Iran plans to build $1billion oil refinery in East Java
Iran plans to build $1billion oil refinery in East Java Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Iran plans to build and operate a US$1 billion oil refinery in the East Java province to accommodate Indonesia's increasing demand for oil-based fuel, Iran's ambassador said on Thursday. Iranian Ambassador to Indonesia Shaban Shahidi Moaddab said the planned project would be carried out jointly by the state- owned National Iranian Oil Co.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Moses' condition improving: coach
Moses' condition improving: coach Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Boxer Antonius Moses Seram, who was knocked unconscious and fell into a coma after a fight on Tuesday, was improving slightly after being operated on shortly after being rushed to the hospital, a coach said. "He has been responding to touch. but he was still in a coma after suffering a brain hemorrhage from the beating he took," Muhammad Rahman, a member of the boxer's coaching staff, told The Jakarta Post.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Americans arrested for child sex offenses
Americans arrested for child sex offenses The United States is investigating a suspected child sex ring on the Indonesian resort island of Bali, an official said on Thursday. Theresa Nibblet, a senior official at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, said the department opened an investigation following a tip-off. She did not provide details and it was not immediately clear how -- or if -- Americans were involved.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Pupud Saripudin, a dedicated driver
Pupud Saripudin, a dedicated driver Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Becoming part of the intensely discussed busway project is more than just a question of pride or making a better livelihood for a bus driver like Pupud Saripudin. It is a chance to show the public that a bus driver too understands what that sacred word professionalism means -- a conviction born out of his concern about the widespread impression that Jakarta's bus drivers are reckless and lawless.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Sapura to expand to Indonesia
Sapura to expand to Indonesia Malaysia's Sapura Motors, which produces automotive components, plans to set up a seven million ringgit (US$1.84 million) plant in Indonesia this year to take advantage of lower costs there, a report said on Thursday. With lower tariffs under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Free Trade Area (AFTA), Indonesia offers better opportunities and synergies to the group, Sapura managing director Mohamad Shah Hussain was quoted by The Star as saying.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
* Headlines: Mega concerned about criticism over Ersa's death 2
* Headlines: Mega concerned about criticism over Ersa's death 2 * National: Most voters don't know how to use ballot papers 4 * Archipelago: W.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Rupiah Retes Jan.15
Rupiah Retes Jan.15 Banknote rates TT rates Selling Buying Selling Buying Australian dollar 1 6,871.14 6,090.82 6,515.55 6,446.18 Brunei dollar 1 5,221.86 4,629.08 4,951.62 4,899.16 Canadian dollar 1 6,872.72 6,091.41 6,517.05 6,446.81 Swiss franc 1 7,188.11 6,373.31 6,816.11 6,745.15 Danish krone 1 1,504.95 1,333.76 1,427.07 1,411.58 Euro 1 11,207.64 9,937.32 10,627.63 10,517.10 Poundsterling 1 16,236.21 14,397.76 15,395.96 15,237.70 Hong Kong dollar 1 1,139.95 1,011.08 1,080.96 1,070.07...
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
The history of the Khek Chinese in Bangka
The history of the Khek Chinese in Bangka The history of the Chinese on the island, which is famous for its rich tin deposits, dates back hundreds of years. The Dutch came to the island to mine the tin and sell it in Europe. Kui Fong said the Dutch, about three centuries ago, brought Chinese migrants from China to Bangka to work in the tin mines. However, few of the Chinese-Indonesians of Bangka today know anything about their ancestral villages in China.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Busway boy Sutiyoso calls for sacrifice
Busway boy Sutiyoso calls for sacrifice Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Speaking from a podium with a traffic jam in the background in the middle of heavy rain on Thursday, Governor Sutiyoso called on the capital's better-off citizens to make sacrifices for those from the lower-bracket income by supporting his ambitious busway project. "I realize that the busway project shows that we are taking the side of the 'little people'.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Supreme Court reform program please donors
Supreme Court reform program please donors Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Supreme Court has won praise from its foreign donors for its commitment to implement real reforms as shown by its initiative to halt corruption in the country's judiciary. Zacky Husein, the legal program director from the Asia Foundation, said that the Supreme Court was an institution had built a degree of trust with its international donors, who are funding the reforms.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Former Banda Aceh mayor detained
Former Banda Aceh mayor detained BANDA ACEH, Aceh: A former Banda Aceh mayor, who was wanted since a week ago on charges of corruption, was arrested on Thursday, police and prosecutors said. Zulkarnain was nabbed in a traffic raid in Simpang Surabaya, Banda Aceh, the capital of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, at 2:30 p.m. The suspect was returning from Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport, local prosecutor Muhammad Adnan said. "He (Zulkarnain) had probably arrived from Jakarta or Medan," he added.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Bukit Asam sales to grow by 6% this year
Bukit Asam sales to grow by 6% this year Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta State-owned firm, PT Tambang Batubara Bukit Asam, the country's fifth largest coal mining company, forecasts the revenue from sales will increase by 6 percent this year on the back of higher demand and prices.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Police seize motorcycle used in bombing
Police seize motorcycle used in bombing PALOPO, South Sulawesi : The South Sulawesi Police seized a motorcycle on Wednesday which they believe was used during the recent bomb attack in Palopo, South Sulawesi province. "The motorcycle is owned by Jamil, 26, who has already been questioned by police," South Sulawesi Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Andi Nurman Thahir said on Thursday. Thus far, he said, there was no evidence that Jamil was involved in the bomb attack.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Voters unable to punch ballots: Survey
Voters unable to punch ballots: Survey Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta If the legislative election was held today, most ballot papers would probably be disqualified due to errors made by voters in punching the ballot papers, a survey indicated. A survey conducted by the Center for Electoral Reform (Cetro) revealed that more than half of the country's 145 million voters in the 2004 elections still do not know how to punch ballot papers properly.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Government starts selection of bond underwriters
Government starts selection of bond underwriters The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Ministry of Finance started on Thursday the selection of underwriters for a planned international bond issuance, which will be the country's first sovereign bond issue since the late 1990s financial crisis.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
BII plans to increase consumer, commercial lending
BII plans to increase consumer, commercial lending The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Bank Internasional Indonesia (BII), the country's sixth largest lender in terms of assets, plans to boost its consumer and commercial lending this year to 60 percent of total new loans. BII director Dira K. Mochtar said on Thursday during a meeting with investors that the publicly listed, foreign-controlled bank planned to provide some Rp 6 trillion (about US$705 million) in new lending this year.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Students against New Order?
Students against New Order? From Koran Tempo A number of students have lodged protests with the General Elections Commission (KPU) against the return of New Order forces, which, according to the protesters, has been indicated by the KPU's compromises with New Order exponents. The demo has shown that some students do not understand the workings of our state affairs.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Free-ticket-to-ride for busway fans
Free-ticket-to-ride for busway fans Ibu Ami knew nothing about the busway until her husband took her on Thursday morning to the Kota busway shelter in West Jakarta to enjoy the initial two-week free busway rides. "My husband skipped work today because he wants me to enjoy the free ride. The bus looks nice," said the housewife, who said she rarely traveled around the city.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Megawati to meet oil corporate leaders in Bogor
Megawati to meet oil corporate leaders in Bogor The Jakarta Post , Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri is due to meet on Friday with top executives of oil and gas companies operating in the country amid worrying reports that Indonesia could become a net oil importer in ten years. During the second Stakeholders Meeting at the Bogor palace, the President is expected to discuss various problems confronting the industry and seek ways to boost investment in the sector.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Sierra Leone national arrested with heroin
Sierra Leone national arrested with heroin Wahyoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali A 31-year-old Sierra Leone national was arrested on his arrival at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport for allegedly trying to smuggle 461.7 grams of heroin into Indonesia, customs officials said on Thursday. The suspect, identified as Emmanuel O Ihejerika, was found with 31 capsules of heroin in his stomach, Denpasar customs and excise office head Wahyu Purnomo said.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Firm halts ballot box production
Firm halts ballot box production JAKARTA: Survindo Indah Prestasi, the troubled firm contracted to produce 60 percent of the ballot boxes needed for the country's general elections, had suspended its production, the General Elections Commission (KPU) admitted on Thursday. KPU deputy secretary general Susongko Suhardjo said production had stopped because the firm's factories had run out of aluminum - the raw material needed to produce the boxes.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Jan.15, 2004
Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Jan.15, 2004 ____________________________________________________________________________ Shares Close Change Trading Volume ____________________________________________________________________________ Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 1,050 25 75,000 Adindo Foresta 50 0 0 AGIS Tbk 90 5 1,200,000 Akbar Indo Makmur 85 0 102,500 Alakasa Industrindo 220 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 1,225 25 7,000 Alter Abadi Tbk 40 5 185,500 Alumindo...
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
1 x 36
1 x 36 40m poor to get free health services JP/4/SULTAN 2 x 29 Sultan hints at graceful exit from Golkar convention series 4/Cetro 1 x 31 Voters unable to punch ballots: Survey JP/4/COURT 3 x 15 Supreme Court reform program pleases donors JP/4/bali 2 x 32 Counterterrorism center expected before Bali meeting next month
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Moonlighting cops arrested for assault
Moonlighting cops arrested for assault Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Another blow to the police force's battered image struck on Thursday when three moonlighting policemen were arrested for physically assaulting a business adversary of their boss. The beaten businessman, identified as Jojo Sulaiman Rochmat, 45, suffered injuries to his head, neck and mouth. "We made the arrest upon a report from the businessman.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Withe to seal deal with PSSI
Withe to seal deal with PSSI Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Peter Withe of Britain is expected to arrive in Jakarta on Jan. 22 and is likely to sign a four-year coaching contract with the Soccer Association of Indonesia (PSSI), according to a PSSI official here on Thursday.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
Counterterrorism center expected before Bali meeting next month
Counterterrorism center expected before Bali meeting next month Eva C. Komandjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A counterterrorism to be established by Indonesia and Australia is expected to be up and running before the Regional Ministerial Meeting on Counterterrorism in early February, an official said on Thursday. "The sooner the better, if possible before the ministerial meeting.
Fri, 16 Jan 2004, 00:00 WIB
;JP;
;JP; ANPAf..r.. Taspen-bank-investment Taspen wants to have a bank JP/13/Taspen Taspen to up stake in Bank Kesejahteraan The Jakarta Post Jakarta State-owned pension firm PT Taspen plans to boost its stake in Bank Kesejahteraan from the current 10 percent, company president Achmad Subianto said on Thursday. "We have proposed to the Minister of Finance an increase in our shares in the bank so that it could become the bank for government employees," he was quoted by Antara as saying.