Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 December 2004

109 articles found

City expects tax surplus to boost 2005 budget

City expects tax surplus to boost 2005 budget Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The last-minute shenanigans over the 2005 city draft budget continued on Tuesday, with the Jakarta administration saying total spending was now projected to rise Rp 170 billion (US$18.28 million) to Rp 14 trillion next year, without explaining what the spending was for.

National Games grim state of national sports

National Games grim state of national sports Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Jakarta regained the overall championship by winning the most medals at this year's 16th National Games (PON) in Palembang, South Sumatra. However, the Games ended with one important question left unanswered: Just how effective are they in producing athletes who are able to compete internationally?

Tsunami damage above $13.6b

Tsunami damage above $13.6b The tsunami catastrophe in South Asia has caused economic damage in excess of 10 billion euros ($13.6 billion), a risk research expert at Munich Re, the world's largest reinsurer, was quoted as saying on Tuesday. Gerhard Berz, head of Geo Risk Research at the Munich-based firm, told the German Deutsche Welle television channel that the estimate was based on a "gut feeling", since reliable figures were not yet available.

Activists protest team for Munir

Activists protest team for Munir JAKARTA: A group of rights activists lamented on Tuesday the government-sanctioned fact-finding team that will probe the death of rights campaigner Munir, which they claim was powerless. They insisted that President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono approve the establishment of a supervisory team under noted lawyer Todung Mulya Lubis, Muhammadyah chairman Ahmad Syafii Maarief and a high ranking police officer, and drop forensic expert Mun'im Idries from the team.

2004: a year of mediocrity for local films

2004: a year of mediocrity for local films Joko Anwar, Contributor/Jakarta After a slow start and mediocre releases, 2004 proved to be an eventful year for Indonesian films. An ulema successfully managed to get a film banned; a teen flick almost as long as Doctor Zhivago was released; and a big film awards festival was criticized by its winners. Who says we aren't celebrating?

Indonesia-EU relations: Stage set for big leap in the year 2005

Indonesia-EU relations: Stage set for big leap in the year 2005 Veeramalla Anjaiah, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Indonesia, the world's fourth-most populous nation, and the world's most powerful regional grouping, the European Union (EU), opened a new chapter in their bilateral relations in 2004 by increasing their interaction on economic and political fronts. Indonesia's trade with the Europe has been growing since the Asian financial crisis in 1997, a top EU official says.

Equipment needed to forecast future tsunami

Equipment needed to forecast future tsunami Abdul Khalik and Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta/Bandung The government needs to invest in more equipment and must conduct more research in earthquake-prone areas nationwide to better monitor earthquakes activity. The Meteorology and Geophysics Agency's (BMG) head of earthquake early prevention unit, Budi Waluyo, said on Monday that the existing equipment was inadequate to monitor earthquakes.

Theresia Sufa

Theresia Sufa The Jakarta Post/Bogor Bogor District Court opened on Tuesday the trial of incumbent deputy mayor, Mochamad Sahid, who has been accused of embezzling Rp 8.85 billion (US$2.09 million) of Bogor council funds in 2002, when he was the council's speaker.

Cars now smarter, but drivers must still use their heads

Cars now smarter, but drivers must still use their heads Zatni Arbi, Contributor/Jakarta We were traveling in the center lane of the Jakarta-Merak toll road. Suddenly, the white BMW 3-Series in front of us veered sharply to the left and slammed into the metal guard rail. My friend quickly stepped on the brakes, fearing that the BMW was going to ricochet to the right. It did not. It just slowed down after scraping some of its left fender. Now the lone driver had some explaining to do to his boss.

Malaysia stuns RI 2-1

Malaysia stuns RI 2-1 Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Indonesia was dealt a shock 2-1 defeat to Malaysia in the first semifinal match in the Tiger Cup soccer competition at the Bung Karno Stadium here on Tuesday. After the two teams observed a minute's silence for the victims of the Asian tsunami, Kurniawan Dwi Julianto scored for Indonesia in only the sixth minute.

JP/5/PILKADA

JP/5/PILKADA Candidates gear up for June elections Oyos Saroso H.N., The Jakarta Post/Bandarlampung Candidates vying for top posts in the direct elections for heads of regional governments in Lampung province are confused over which political party to register with, as each party has its own screening process.

No place to go but up for RI music in 2005

No place to go but up for RI music in 2005 Hera Diani,The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Little, if anything, very exciting emerged on the local popular music scene in 2004. It was so lame and dull that perhaps the "highlight" of the whole year was when then presidential candidate Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono sang rock group Jamrud's old hit Pelangi Di Matamu (The Rainbow in Your Eyes) on every possible occasion.

Meulaboh and other Aceh's western coast see no life

Meulaboh and other Aceh's western coast see no life The Jakarta Post Medan/Jakarta Vice President Jusuf Kalla estimated the death toll in the tidal waves that swept northern Sumatra could reach 25,000 as more signs of massive destruction along the Aceh west coast emerged on Tuesday. Antara news agency reported on Tuesday that there was no sign of life for 240 kilometers along the western part of Aceh.

JP/4/longsor

JP/4/longsor Three die, houses damaged in landslides Slamet Susanto The Jakarta Post/Purworejo Landslides have hit three regencies in Central Java and Yogyakarta, leaving at least three people dead and dozens of houses damaged, officials and residents said on Tuesday. A 70-year old grandmother, Martini, and her granddaughter, Sangidah, 25, were killed when a landslide buried their house in Guyangan village, Loanu district, Purworejo regency, Central Java.

A generation of young Asians lost in an epic disaster

A generation of young Asians lost in an epic disaster S. Srinivasan, Associated Press/Cuddalore, India The buzz of grim conversation in the darkened morgue was broken by a man's shriek as the small body was lowered on a bed. "My son, my king!" wailed Venkatesh, hugging the limp shrouded bundle. Thousands of miles away in Indonesia, farmer Yusya Yusman aimlessly searched the beaches for his two children lost in Sunday's tsunami. "My life is over," he said emotionlessly.

KPK says 61 vie

KPK says 61 vie for advisory seats JAKARTA: The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) said on Tuesday that 61 candidates have passed administrative selection to become members of the commission's advisory team. The candidates were selected from 177 applicants who were required to submit essays.

Papuan assembly also a gift for the President

Papuan assembly also a gift for the President Christine Susanna Tjhin, Jakarta President Susilo's decision to spend Christmas in Papua (Dec. 26, 2004) may well be a very sympathetic yearly ritual. And the recently signed presidential regulation on the Papuan People's Assembly (MRP) has been considered by many as one of the wonderful Christmas gifts all Papuans could get. Come to think about it, we ought to humbly say, that is a Christmas gift for the President, instead of from the President.

Love-hate maids

Love-hate maids Most people have a mixed feeling for foreign maids. Maids are almost an indispensable commodity in many families, even progressively taking over the job functions of their employers' wives. You can count your luck if you have chosen a good one, but not everyone is that fortunate. We have read about too many tragic stories between employers and their maids. We have seen really bad maids and similarly cruel employers.

Buyat residents withdraw lawsuit

Buyat residents withdraw lawsuit JAKARTA: Three Buyat Bay residents have withdrawn a US$543 million civil lawsuit filed against PT Newmont Minahasa Raya for allegedly causing heavy metal poisoning.

JP/

JP/ Dompet Dhuafa Republika 128 000 4397 839 Bank Mandiri Ciputat branch, 676 030194 7 BCA Ciputat Mega Mall 004 002 990 7 Bank Syariah Mandiri Dompet Kemanusiaan Media Indonesia 309 300 7979 BCA Kedoya Baru Kotak Pundi Amal SCTV 084 266 2000 BCA Wisma Asia Kompas Media Nusantara 001 007 55555 1001 BNI Jakarta Kota 012 301 6600 BCA Gajah Mada Hard Rock Radio 219 301 1144 BCA Radio Dalam Kontras 2-072-267-196 BII Proklamasi PMI Jakarta chapter 746-30-05218-4 Bank Lippo Slipi

Asian economy seen wounded but not sunk by tsunami tragedy

Asian economy seen wounded but not sunk by tsunami tragedy Shaun Tandon, Agence France-Presse/Tokyo The tsunamis that ravaged the coasts of the Indian Ocean inflicted at least hundreds of millions of dollars in damage and will likely force a rethink of 2005 spending priorities, economists said on Tuesday. The killer waves triggered by the world's most powerful earthquake in four decades were particularly brutal to tourism and fishing, two of the most lucrative industries for southern Asia.

Bambang PS Brodjonegoro

Bambang PS Brodjonegoro Department of Economics, University of Indonesia The period of severe economic crisis that has prevailed for the last six years might be over, what with continuing macroeconomic stability, indicated by modest economic growth and a controllable inflation rate. The economy should continue to recover, with expected higher annual economic growth, stronger economic fundamentals and eventually job creation to reduce acute unemployment and poverty.

Govt asks ADB, World Bank for help to rebuild infrastructure

Govt asks ADB, World Bank for help to rebuild infrastructure Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The government will ask the Asian Development Bank and World Bank for their financial support to help rebuild infrastructure in Aceh, severely-damaged by a massive earthquake and tsunami. Minister of Finance Jusuf Anwar said on Tuesday that it would soon ask the two international donor agencies to start disbursing US$3 billion in combined undisbursed loan commitments for that purpose.

Indonesia's economic fundamentals after fuel price hike

Indonesia's economic fundamentals after fuel price hike David E. Sumual Indonesia's financial markets have been shaky in recent weeks, raising scores of questions about the country's economic fundamentals. A volatile financial market typically indicates there is a battle of views being waged in the market. Such volatility usually marks an inflection point in regard to which direction the market will head.

Performing arts 2004: Flashback to a varied year

Performing arts 2004: Flashback to a varied year Helly Minarti, Contributor/Jakarta Judging from the frequency, scale and variety of events held throughout the year, 2004 seemed to be fruitful for Indonesian performing arts. Arts festivals -- starting from the small-scale Monologue Festival up to the large Art Summit Indonesia 2004 -- were a regular feature throughout the year.

Agency goes after city's litterers

Agency goes after city's litterers JAKARTA: The East Jakarta sanitation agency seized on Tuesday the ID cards of 130 people caught littering within a two-hour operation around Cawang and Jatinegara districts. Agency head Ratim Aman, who leads the regular operation, said the 130 people would be summoned later to his office for a quick trial, Tempointeraktif news portal reported.

Dompet Dhuafa Republika 128 000 4397 839 Bank Mandiri

Dompet Dhuafa Republika 128 000 4397 839 Bank Mandiri Ciputat branch, 676 030194 7 BCA Ciputat Mega Mall 004 002 990 7 Bank Syariah Mandiri Dompet Kemanusiaan Media Indonesia 309 300 7979 BCA Kedoya Baru Kotak Pundi Amal SCTV 084 266 2000 BCA Wisma Asia Kompas Media Nusantara 001 007 55555 1001 BNI Jakarta Kota 012 301 6600 BCA Gajah Mada Hard Rock Radio 219 301 1144 BCA Radio Dalam Kontras 2-072-267-196 BII Proklamasi PMI Jakarta chapter 746-30-05218-4 Bank Lippo Slipi

PT ORIX Indonesia Finance

PT ORIX Indonesia Finance Maximize your profits through Operating Lease Today, not only large corporations, but also smaller companies are aware that prudent cash flow management is crucial for a profitable operation. So, instead of tying up cash for the purchase of vehicles or office equipment, they opt for another alternative - leasing the items. And, for almost 30 years now, one of the leading solution providers here is PT.

Former Thai paradise island is now paradise lost

Former Thai paradise island is now paradise lost Agencies, Phi Phi Island, Khao Lak, Thailand Thailand's one-time paradise island of Phi Phi is now paradise lost. Two days after a wall of water smashed into the holiday island from both sides, rescuers on Tuesday were still retrieving bloated corpses from the lagoon or from the wreckage of shattered buildings.

* Three die in landslides in Central Java Page 4

* Three die in landslides in Central Java Page 4 * Jakarta's parcel business slows down Page 5 * People's assembly a gift for Susilo Page 6 * Research yields clues to why hair turns gray Page 7 * Rough weather claims Sydney-Hobart leaders Page 8 * String of attacks in Iraq kill 42 Page 9 * Govt rejects Pertamina image-polishing plan Page 10

JP/5/LONGSOR

JP/5/LONGSOR Riau-Sumatra highway cut by landslide Puji Santoso, The Jakarta Post/Pekanbaru The main highway between the provinces of Riau and West Sumatra was cut on Friday by a landslide triggered by torrential rains in Kampar regency over the past week. Mud and rocks covered about 30 meters of the highway, while heavy rains aggravated the situation. Hundreds of vehicles traveling to and from West Sumatra were left stranded and a massive traffic jam formed along the highway.

The future of corruption eradication

The future of corruption eradication Saldi Isra Lecturer at Andalas University's School of Law in Padang and recipient of the 2004 Bung Hatta Anti-Corruption Award The year 2004 will soon leave us. Aside from the successful legislative and presidential elections, this year marked an important point in the eradication of corruption in Indonesia.

RI extends rice import ban until June

RI extends rice import ban until June The government extended a ban on rice imports until June next year, as good harvests earlier this year have boosted rice stocks to a level sufficient to meet national demand, said a senior official on Tuesday. "Based on a recommendation from the Ministry of Agriculture, the rice stock is still sufficient until June 2005, so we don't need to import rice," Minister of Trade Mari E. Pangestu told reporters.

Tsunami Killer

Tsunami Killer Tsunamis used to be the stuff of Japanese folklore. But they swept into millions of real lives in coastal south and southeast Asia in the morning of Dec. 26. In a country where even patently man-made events like railway accidents are put down to the will of Lord Vishwakarma, as the rail minister did recently, it may be too much to expect evasive action when nature vents its fury on this scale.

Death toll in Asian quake disaster passes 55,000 mark

Death toll in Asian quake disaster passes 55,000 mark Agencies, Jakarta/Galle, Sri Lanka The confirmed death toll from the massive earthquake and tidal waves that devastated much of Asia's coastline passed 55,000 on Tuesday, with officials warning the figure was likely to rise steeply. In Indonesia, the government's disaster relief center said at least 27,174 were killed after the country took the full force of the huge earthquake and tidal waves that swallowed entire coastal villages.

West coast stays deadly quiet

West coast stays deadly quiet The Jakarta Post, Medan/Jakarta The death toll in the tidal waves that swept northern Sumatra has surpassed 27,000 as more signs of massive destruction along the Aceh west coast emerged on Tuesday. AFP reported on Tuesday evening that death toll leapt to more than 27,000 on Tuesday as desperate SOS calls came from an obliterated coastline. Meanwhile, Antara state news agency said that there was no sign of life for 240 kilometers along the western part of Aceh.

Taufik soothes Indonesia's woeful year in badminton

Taufik soothes Indonesia's woeful year in badminton Eva C. Komandjaja, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Taufik Hidayat's rise to the Olympic championship not only testified to his mettle as one of the world's best shuttlers but also provided a bit of appeasement for the demanding Indonesian badminton fraternity, after a pathetic run marked by the failure in the Thomas Cup.

Parcel business slow as officials asked not to accept gratuities

Parcel business slow as officials asked not to accept gratuities Dewi Santoso, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The anticorruption call made by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) ahead of Idul Fitri has proven effective, and the city's parcel business is slowing down, even as New Year nears. The KPK had called on state officials to refrain from receiving gifts and parcels in an effort to combat bribery. Sulaeman Tantowi, owner of the Soel One parcel shop on Jl. H.

1. HERCULES: 2 X 24

1. HERCULES: 2 X 24 Migrant Acehnese in anguish over uncertainty 2. BANDA ACEH: 1 X 30 Banda Aceh becomes city of the dead 3. BMG: 3 X 14 Equipment needed to forecast future tsunami 4. INMATES: 1 X 40 Aceh inmates flee prison to save their lives 5. DOMPET: 1 X 45 Public eagerly gives donations for tsunami victims

Three people die, houses damaged in landslides

Three people die, houses damaged in landslides Slamet Susanto, The Jakarta Post/Purworejo Landslides have hit three regencies in Central Java and Yogyakarta, leaving at least three people dead and dozens of houses damaged, officials and residents said on Tuesday. A 70-year old grandmother, Martini, and her granddaughter, Sangidah, 25, were killed when a landslide buried their house in Guyangan village, Loanu district, Purworejo regency, Central Java.

Low-key New Year celebrations: KPK

Low-key New Year celebrations: KPK Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has asked government officials to tone down their New Year celebrations and instead donate the money to the victims of the Aceh, Flores and Papua disasters. In a statement released on Tuesday, the KPK said state officials should not celebrate the New Year "extravagantly" after President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono announced three days of mourning for the people of Aceh.

A starting point in eradicating graft: A personal experience

A starting point in eradicating graft: A personal experience Gamawan Fauzi In the past few decades, graft has become extremely difficult to separate from Indonesian society. Voices of concern against graft have been heard in many places but corruption has become even more widespread, involving nearly all institutions and social bodies in cities and villages. As the voices demanding that corruption be stopped gain intensity, corrupt practices have also intensified.

Few survivors feared among messengers

Few survivors feared among messengers The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A lot of people count on them to bring the news, especially now as traumatized survivors search frantically for lost family members, but almost all of 80 journalists from the only daily newspaper based in Aceh -- Serambi Indonesia -- are missing and feared dead. The latest stories published on the Serambi website are from Saturday's edition.

Banda Aceh becomes city of the dead

Banda Aceh becomes city of the dead The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh Once a beautiful and historic city with its picturesque Baitur Rahman grand mosque a renowned landmark, Banda Aceh, the capital of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, has become a city of corpses in the wake of a monstrous tsunami that swept across it. The city is pitch dark and littered with dead bodies and mounds of construction debris, demolished cars and thick mud.

The Great Withe Hope comes to rescue of Indonesian soccer

The Great Withe Hope comes to rescue of Indonesian soccer Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The Tiger Cup has yet to wrap up, but the Indonesian soccer team's high flying run in the group stage in early December has redeemed an otherwise mediocre 2004 campaign, which also saw a leadership crisis at the Soccer Association of Indonesia (PSSI).

Images

Images Disaster of apocalyptic proportions People may call it a "Black Sunday". A powerful 9.0- magnitude earthquake and tsunamis struck Indonesia and nine other countries on Sunday and killed more than 55,000 people, many of whom were children. Millions more became homeless, were orphaned or lost their children in two continents -- Asia and Africa. With more than 27,000 fatalities in Aceh and some parts of North Sumatra, Indonesia was the worst-hit country in the world.

JP/5/FOCUS

JP/5/FOCUS Inmate suspected of running drug ring BANDUNG, West Java: Following the arrest of six suspected drug dealers over the weekend, the Bandung Police announced they suspected an inmate was controlling the city's drug trade from inside prison. The police came to this conclusion after collecting information from the suspected dealers, one of whom reportedly admitted to being part of a gang controlled by the inmate.

Poso police chief grilled in refugee fund theft case

Poso police chief grilled in refugee fund theft case Ruslan Sangadji, The Jakarta Post/Poso Central Sulawesi Police said on Tuesday they have questioned Poso Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Abdi Dharma Sitepu for his alleged role in misappropriating refugee funds worth Rp 2 billion (US$220,000). The probe into Sitepu's case followed a confession by a detained suspect that the police chief received Rp 50 million in refugee funds allocated for victims of the two-year sectarian conflict in Poso.

KL may delay RI deportation

KL may delay RI deportation MALAYSIA: Malaysia will consider postponing plans to deport hundreds of thousands of illegal Indonesian immigrants back to their crisis-stricken country if Jakarta makes such a request, the government said on Tuesday. Indonesian authorities have so far not asked Kuala Lumpur to delay a crackdown, scheduled to begin Jan. 1, to oust Malaysia's estimated 1 million illegal migrants - most of them Indonesians - said Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak.

Crude oil prices rise as investors cast eye on U.S. weather

Crude oil prices rise as investors cast eye on U.S. weather Agence France-Presse, Singapore Crude oil futures edged up slightly in Asian trade on Tuesday after dropping by almost three dollars overnight amid reports of mild U.S. winter conditions, dealers said. At 08:05 GMT (or 15:05 Jakarta time), New York's main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in February was 28 U.S. cents higher at US$41.60 a barrel from its settlement of $41.32 in New York where it had dropped $2.86.

JP/5/POSO

JP/5/POSO Poso police chief questioned in refugee fund graft case Ruslan Sangadji The Jakarta Post/Poso Central Sulawesi Police said on Tuesday they have questioned Poso Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Abdi Dharma Sitepu for his alleged role in misappropriating refugee funds worth Rp 2 billion (US$220,000).

Sticking to priorities: Involve women in policy making

Sticking to priorities: Involve women in policy making Ati Nurbaiti The Jakarta Post Toward the end of this year, we were treated to the laments of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who is beginning to show a sagely side to his personality: He expressed his regret over the many broadcasts that were "alien to Indonesia's norms and identity". Initially, a minister referred to the "navel", a reference to MTV crooners and their wannabes.

New political complexity, new leaders and the art of leading

New political complexity, new leaders and the art of leading changes Rizal Sukma This article examines recent changes in Indonesia's politics, perceived and real, since the election of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, affectionately called SBY, as Indonesia's sixth president in October 2004. These changes have brought about additional elements to the already complex political scene in the country. In such a circumstance, the need to create change is easier said than done.

Bogor deputy mayor on trial

Bogor deputy mayor on trial Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post/Bogor Bogor District Court opened on Tuesday the trial of incumbent deputy mayor, Mochamad Sahid, who has been accused of embezzling Rp 6.85 billion (US$736,559) of Bogor council funds in 2002, when he was the council's speaker.

Satya Arinanto

Satya Arinanto One of the most important issues expected to be resolved promptly by the new government under President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Jusuf Kalla is law enforcement; it is an expectation based on a pledge the two made in their presidential campaign. In a White Paper titled "The Vision, Mission and Programs", the pair presented their program for justice, law, human rights and democracy.

Indonesia is facing several serious labor issues viewed both in

Indonesia is facing several serious labor issues viewed both in the short and long-term. While some of these interrelated problems can be partially settled, they will need comprehensive solutions that should not be limited to the labor market. Total as well as well as what is called "open" unemployment has increased. Since the economic crisis in mid-1997, the amount of jobless has risen significantly -- in terms of both the old way to calculate unemployment and the expanded benchmark.

JP/5/KAKAK

JP/5/KAKAK White cockatoo population dwindling Indra Harsaputra, The Jakarta Post/Surabaya The population of White Cockatoo (Cacatua alba) in North Maluku is dwindling due to uncontrolled poaching. More than 500 of them are traded in Jakarta and other places annually, say an environmental group.

Another council faces graft probe

Another council faces graft probe PURWOKERTO, Central Java: All 45 members of the previous Banyumas legislative council will face an investigation into their alleged role in a Rp 5 billion (US$555,555) corruption case, police said on Tuesday. Banyumas Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Erwin Triwanto said the ex-councillors were accused of embezzling funds from the 2002 and 2003 regental budgets for personal use. The Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) had earlier found indications of corruption in the council.

Indonesian economics: Old habits die hard

Indonesian economics: Old habits die hard Satish Mishra Head/Chief Adviser of UNSFIR (UNSFIR is a joint project between the government of Indonesia and the United Nations Development Program) Wherever you look -- in national daily newspapers, in academic journals, at ministerial seminars, at industrial road maps put forward by leading business associations and at those annual gatherings of the economic cognoscenti -- it seems obvious that old habits really do die hard.

Aceh inmates flee prison to save their lives

Aceh inmates flee prison to save their lives Eva C. Komandjaja, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The government said on Tuesday hundreds of inmates serving time in prisons in tsunami-ravaged Aceh had fled prison to save their lives during the disaster, which killed thousands of people. Minister of Justice and Human Rights Hamid Awaluddin said the situation was a force majeure as everyone ran for their lives when tidal waves swept the province on Sunday. "They ran away to save their own lives.

Bantarto Bandoro, Jakarta

Bantarto Bandoro, Jakarta It is no secret that foreign policy issues have always been external to the mainstream agenda of our national policy, particularly when Indonesia is bogged down by a series of domestic problems while in the midst of becoming a more stable and democratic country. But many, here and abroad, will not forget the peaceful general elections this year, which can at least serve as a kind of modality for the country to be more prominent in its international standing.

Reuters/Beawiharta

Reuters/Beawiharta CAPT B Reuters CAPT C Reuters CAPT D Antara CAPT E Reuters/Beawiharta CAPT F AP/Stephen Walton CAPT G AP/Antonio Calanni

(An Introduction to the Special Edition of JP)

(An Introduction to the Special Edition of JP) Political Developments in 2004, Expectations for 2005 Jusuf Wanandi It has been a tradition for The Jakarta Post in the last few years to produce a special edition on developments in the various fields of life during the outgoing year and a projection on what to expect in the coming year. For that purpose The Jakarta Post has invited some of the best minds in their field to contribute.

'I wouldn't be surprised of all prices rise steeply'

'I wouldn't be surprised of all prices rise steeply' More and more people have launched protests against the government's plan to increase gasoline and kerosene prices in the first quarter of next year. Last week, the government increased the prices of liquefied petroleum gas and high octane fuels. The Jakarta Post asked residents about their opinions on the issue. David, 35, works for an accountancy firm on Jl. Thamrin, Central Jakarta.

Migrant Acehnese in anguish over uncertainty

Migrant Acehnese in anguish over uncertainty The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Yogyakarta/Bandung "I haven't heard from my family. They live in Lhoong district along Aceh's eastern coast, which is isolated because transportation access was cut off," said Andri Gunawan on Tuesday. When Andri learned on Wednesday that he could go to Banda Aceh on a Hercules aircraft chartered by an anonymous woman, the Acehnese's face filled with relief and hope.

Public eagerly give donations to tsunami victims

Public eagerly give donations to tsunami victims The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Shocked and grieved by the massive devastation and loss of life wrought by the earthquake and tsunamis that hit Aceh and North Sumatra, Indonesians have turned out in droves to donate money to aid agencies. Several relief organizations in the capital said on Tuesday a surge of individual and corporate donors had contributed cash or goods to survivors of the disaster.

Korean Air, Asiana halt Phuket route

Korean Air, Asiana halt Phuket route SEOUL: Korean Air Lines Co. and Asiana Airlines Inc. will halt flights to the Thai resort island of Phuket for a month after tidal waves lashed the country's southwest coast, killing more than 1,000 people and destroying hotels. Korean Air, the country's largest carrier, will halt all six weekly flights to Phuket starting Thursday, spokesman Hong Seogki said today.

Danang Widoyoko

Danang Widoyoko The new government has vowed to take real action against corrupt officials in its first 100 days as a form of "shock therapy" in an effort to gain public trust. But properly enforcing the law against such a widespread problem, with so many involved, is nothing short of a monumental task. The previous presidents of Indonesia have failed to eradicate corruption, although a lot of regulations have been reviewed and new laws enacted.

1. Human ---- 1x42

1. Human ---- 1x42 A generation of young Asians lost in an epic disaster 2. Infrastruc - 2x25 Some power, phones back on in Aceh, as fuel dwindles 3. Athletes -- 1x30 Swede runs for life as tidal wave hits 4. Media ----- 1x30 Few survivors feared among Aceh's messengers

Govt rejects Pertamina image-polishing plan

Govt rejects Pertamina image-polishing plan The government has rejected a proposal by state oil and gas firm PT Pertamina to spend a large amount of money for changing its antiquated logo, as it was deemed unnecessary amid the firm's financial woes. State Minister for State Enterprises Sugiharto, who oversees state-owned companies, said his office had rejected the logo- changing plan, calling it a reflection of a lack of sense of crisis on the part of the company's management.

Councillors criticized for staging protest over 'low' salary

Councillors criticized for staging protest over 'low' salary Multa Fidrus, The Jakarta Post/Tangerang Tangerang regency councillors' protest on Monday was condemned by a religious leader and labor activist, who said the councillors had disappointed their constituents. Chaerudin, a religious leader in the regency, said the councillors had shown that their goal was to enrich themselves. "Their pledge to represent the people in the development process was not genuine.

Court upholds Adrian's detention

Court upholds Adrian's detention JAKARTA: The South Jakarta District Court turned down on Tuesday a motion by the defense that detention be suspended for Adrian Woworuntu, a key suspect in the Rp 1.2 trillion (US$133.3 billion) BNI scandal. Adrian is charged with violating Law No. 3/1999 on corruption and Law No. 25/2003 on money laundering, and could face a maximum life sentence.

Terrorism bolsters Australia's ties with RI

Terrorism bolsters Australia's ties with RI Adianto P. Simamora, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Indonesia and Australia, long known for their love-hate relationship, are now again seeing a period of unity -- at least for the time being -- by a common concern: terrorism. Following the last few years of apparently wavering support on this issue from former president Megawati Soekarnoputri, Australia seems to have set its faith in President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

Aid agencies for tsunami victims

Aid agencies for tsunami victims Dompet Dhuafa Republika 128 000 4397 839 Bank Mandiri Ciputat branch 676 030194 7 BCA Ciputat Mega Mall 004 002 990 7 Bank Syariah Mandiri Dompet Kemanusiaan Media Indonesia 309 300 7979 BCA Kedoya Baru Kotak Pundi Amal SCTV 084 266 2000 BCA Wisma Asia Kompas Media Nusantara 001 007 55555 1001 BNI Jakarta Kota 012 301 6600 BCA Gajah Mada Hard Rock Radio 219 301 1144 BCA Radio Dalam Kontras 2-072-267-196 BII Proklamasi PMI Jakarta chapter 746-30-05218-4 Bank...

Franz Magnis-Suseno SJ

Franz Magnis-Suseno SJ Indonesia's amazing diversity -- her geographical dispersion, plurality of ethnicities and cultures and of religious communities and observances, the mixture between indigenous people and migrants, between the provinces, between "Jakarta and the rest", but also, vertically, between villages and cities -- has become a challenge, if not a threat, to the country. Indonesia's future will depend on how she handles this diversity.

Rupiah rates Dec. 28

Rupiah rates Dec. 28 Banknote rates Selling Buying Australian dollar 1 7,615.61 6,832.84 Brunei dollar 1 5,985.33 5,370.99 Canadian dollar 1 8,024.08 7,201.93 Swiss franc 1 8,614.02 7,731.19 Danish krone 1 1,790.02 1,606.39 Euro 1 13,316.30 11,955.04 Poundsterling 1 18,923.94 16,987.54 Hong Kong dollar 1 1,258.56 1,129.93 Japanese yen 100 9,487.60 8,514.86 Malaysian ringgit 1 -- -- Norwegian krone 1 1,609.48 1,444.46 New Zealand dollar 1 7,081.79 6,349.99 PNG kina 1 3,261.74 2,774.82 Philippine...

When Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was elected president, many in

When Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was elected president, many in the country were elated. They thought Indonesia had finally chosen the right man to clean up the country's biggest problem -- widespread corruption. Fighting corruption has been SBY's campaign motto ever since he began running for president. He has a huge task. Corruption has long been a structural, if not a cultural issue, something even schoolchildren accept as a way of life.

Indonesia and the New Government: 2004 Diagnosis & 2005 Prognosis

Indonesia and the New Government: 2004 Diagnosis & 2005 Prognosis Kahlil Rowter Head of Research Mandiri Sekuritas *) Personal Opinion With so many economic initiatives brewing it is necessary to shift direction from mere reaction to pressure. But the big bang eludes us. Either there was never one planned or the reality of the economy-polity nexus necessitates a more gradual approach. However, the speed chosen should not risk the momentum already gained.

KPK says 61 vie

KPK says 61 vie for advisory seats JAKARTA: The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) said on Tuesday that 61 candidates have passed administrative selection to become members of the commission's advisory team. The candidates were selected from 177 applicants who were required to submit essays.

JP/xx/ENDY

JP/xx/ENDY The reality of power sharing -- Who is in charge of the ship? JP/XX/ENDY Endy M. Bayuni The Jakarta Post/Jakarta When Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono won the presidential election in September with more than 60 percent of the total votes, many people breathed a sigh of relief. Finally, a president with a strong mandate and trust from the people to fix all the problems that this country has had for a long time. So they thought. Or so they hoped.

Injury-humbled Angie expects to bounce back in 2005

Injury-humbled Angie expects to bounce back in 2005 Eva C. Komandjaja, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Top women's tennis player Angelique 'Angie' Widjaja's blamed recurrent injuries for her dismal run this year but said successful knee surgery had boosted her hopes for a comeback in 2005.

JP/16/ITAUTO

JP/16/ITAUTO Today's cars are smarter, but drivers must still use their heads Zatni Arbi Contributor/Jakarta We were traveling in the center lane of the Jakarta-Merak toll road. Suddenly, the white BMW 3-Series in front of us veered sharply to the left and slammed into the metal guard rail. My friend quickly stepped on the brakes, fearing that the BMW was going to ricochet to the right. It did not. It just slowed down after scraping some of its left fender.

Idle tears

Idle tears From Sabang to Merauke, Indonesians acted without deliberation to support their brothers and sisters facing Sunday's calamity. A spontaneous show of solidarity that was both encouraging and touching to witness. The immediacy of public reaction also demonstrated that, though this nation is diverse, its people are united in their hearts.

Some power, phones back on in Aceh, as fuel dwindles

Some power, phones back on in Aceh, as fuel dwindles Leony Aurora and Rendy A. Witular, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Basic services have slowly begun to return to areas devastated by the massive earthquake and tsunami that hit Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam on Sunday, but progress has been hampered by difficult field conditions and a lack of fuel.

Astra Agro suspends operation in Aceh

Astra Agro suspends operation in Aceh JAKARTA: PT Astra Agro Lestari, Indonesia's biggest agricultural company by value, suspended operation of its unit in Aceh province after an earthquake off Sumatra island and the resulting tsunamis damaged roads. The roads linked the company's 4,500 hectares (11,000 acres) of oil palm plantations near Meulaboh in West Aceh to the nearest port, Tjahyo Dwi Ariantono, Astra Agro's head of investor relation, said in a phone interview from Medan in North Sumatra.

One in three bylaws bad for investment: survey

One in three bylaws bad for investment: survey Zakki P. Hakim, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta No less than a third of all the bylaws issued by the regional governments in the past years have discouraged trade and investment, according to a survey conducted by a committee under the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin).

sports heads page 17, yearender

sports heads page 17, yearender 1. bad (60) -- 48pts 7cols 1line (42x1) Taufik soothes Indonesia's woeful year in badminton 2. pon (70) -- 40pts 7cols 1line (49x1) PON highlights grim state of national sports 3. angi (55) -- 36pts 3cols 2lines (27x2) Injury-hit Angie expects to bounce back in 2005 4. pssi (60) -- 36pts 4cols 2lines (36x2) The Great Withe Hope comes to rescue of Indonesian soccer

Hungry refugees scramble for food

Hungry refugees scramble for food Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post/Lhokseumawe "Look at this, Sir. Only three pieces of salted fish to share among 10 people," said Mariani, a refugee in North Aceh -- one of the areas hardest hit by Sunday's devastating tsunami that killed thousands of people across Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam province. Mariani said on Tuesday she had not eaten for the last two days as food supplies were running out. She must therefore share the food she received from aid workers.

Council summons dump operator

Council summons dump operator BEKASI: Bekasi council summoned on Tuesday the operator of Bantar Gebang dump, PT Patriot Bekasi Bangkit, to clarify public reports on its poor waste management. Secretary of Commission B for economic affairs Muhamad Hasyim Affandy told Tempointeraktif news portal that the councillors had found that the dump's waste treatment facility was in need of repair and that it had polluted the environment.

Jakarta shares end at record high

Jakarta shares end at record high Dow Jones, Jakarta Indonesian shares ended higher on Tuesday, with buying in cement blue chips pushing the main index above the historical level of 1,000 points, dealers said. Fund managers continued to snap up select blue chips to improve their books before year-end, but concerns over the rising death toll from the massive earthquake and tsunamis over the weekend prevented the main index from rising further, they said.

Special Year-end Edition

Special Year-end Edition .... Overall, the year 2004 saw woeful sports performances, with the greatest shock our failure to retain the Thomas Cup, the world's most prestigious men's badminton championship. Even so, some highlights were in store with maverick shuttler Taufik Hidayat's salvaging the nation's pride, taking an Olympic gold against all odds.

The golden days of publishing are over

The golden days of publishing are over Ignatius Haryanto, Contributor/Jakarta Now that the end of 2004 is approaching, we shall experience "business as usual" in the Indonesian book industry. One important thing to address is the ending of financial support from the Ford Foundation, via the Adikarya Foundation, which has been a significant source of support for Indonesian book publishing since 1998.

Asia holds its collective breath over bird flu threat for 2005

Asia holds its collective breath over bird flu threat for 2005 Michael Mathes, Agence France-Presse, Bangkok Chilling warnings about an inevitable global influenza pandemic that could kill millions signal more turmoil to come after a grim year in Asia when nations weary from fighting SARS faced a new foe in bird flu.

Nations pledge cash, aid for Asia disaster victims

Nations pledge cash, aid for Asia disaster victims Countries around the globe have stepped forward with pledges of cash and assistance to the victims of the southern Asian earthquake and tsunami disaster. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has said it will take "many billions of dollars" for rescue, recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Djisman S. Simandjuntak

Djisman S. Simandjuntak Though people were not clear on the policy direction and priorities of the contenders in the general elections, all seemed to agree on the need for change, and the year 2004 was full of hope with peaceful legislative and presidential elections. The country experienced its first direct elections and witnessed President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's (SBY) and Vice President Jusuf Kalla's (JK) landslide victory.

Indonesia's tourism development and challenges in 2005

Indonesia's tourism development and challenges in 2005 Meity Robot Tourism plays an important role in the development of a nation. It is not only a major contribution to a country's economy, but it also is a means to develop peace and understanding among people. World Tourism Organization (WTO) data shows the sector is one of the top five export categories for 83 percent of countries in the world and is the main source of foreign exchange earnings for at least 38 percent of the countries.

1. Roundup (50) - 60 pts 6 cols 1line (1x24)

1. Roundup (50) - 60 pts 6 cols 1line (1x24) Bodies litter Aceh as famine looms 2. Tax (35) - 36 pts 4 cols 1 lines (1x28) Govt grants tax incentive for Aceh donors 3. Meulaboh (35) -- 28 pts 3 cols 2lines (2x20) West coast stays deadly quiet 4. Refugees (34) - 36 pts 4 cols 1line (1x28) Hungry refugees scramble for food --- 5. Photos (4 pieces) and 1 graphic

Condolences pour in for quake victims

Condolences pour in for quake victims The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Presidents, prime ministers, kings and queens from around the globe offered the Aceh tsunami victims their heartfelt sympathies and pledged aid and assistance to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. Copies of condolence letters and offers of help sent to Susilo were made available to The Jakarta Post on Tuesday by a range of embassies in Jakarta.

Govt rejects Pertamina image-polishing plan

Govt rejects Pertamina image-polishing plan The government has rejected a proposal by state oil and gas firm PT Pertamina to spend a large amount of money for changing its antiquated logo, as it was deemed unnecessary amid the firm's financial woes. State Minister for State Enterprises Sugiharto, who oversees state-owned companies, said his office had rejected the logo- changing plan, calling it a reflection of a lack of sense of crisis on the part of the company's management.

'Teen lit' writers and their work very much in vogue

'Teen lit' writers and their work very much in vogue Ignatius Haryanto, Contributor/Jakarta Pay a visit to local bookstores in big cities around the country and you will surprised at the phenomenon of books that fit into the "chick lit" (young women's literature) and "teen lit" categories. These are not works that have been translated into Bahasa Indonesia from Western writers but those written for and by Indonesian teenagers.

Satish Mishra

Satish Mishra Head/Chief Adviser of UNSFIR (UNSFIR is a joint project of the Indonesian government and UNDP) Countries, like individuals, it would seem, need acclaim and recognition. When the front cover of the Economist magazine, just after July 5, 2004, the first round of presidential elections, carried the caption "shining example", it was taken to signify that Indonesia had turned the corner in its transition to democracy.

Govt grants tax incentive to tsunami donors

Govt grants tax incentive to tsunami donors Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The government issued on Tuesday a ministerial decree to provide tax incentives for businesses that provide aid for the victims of the deadly earthquake and tidal waves in Aceh and North Sumatra. Under the decree, companies that donate part of their profits to help the victims, will enjoy a tax cut, said Minister of Finance Jusuf Anwar.

'If our neighbors take our market, we will lose national pride'

'If our neighbors take our market, we will lose national pride' The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Local electronics producers claim that 50 percent of the electronic goods traded in Indonesia are illegally brought into the country. This situation has hampered domestic growth and discouraged new investment. The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry's (Kadin) vice chairman for industry, technology and maritime affairs, Rachmat Gobel discussed the situation in a recent meeting with The Jakarta Post.

Indonesia market outlook: Another better year ahead

Indonesia market outlook: Another better year ahead David Chang This time last year, I predicted that the stock market in 2004 would be better than in the previous year despite the political concerns, even after being one of the strongest performers in Asia for 2003. That has proven to be right as the Jakarta Stock Exchange composite index has since climbed 36 percent from 692 points at end-2003 to 939 as of Dec. 15, 2004.

Bodies litter Aceh as famine looms

Bodies litter Aceh as famine looms The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Medan With medicine, food and body bags in short supply, electricity and communications still mostly down, the threat of disease is looming in Aceh, while the death toll after tidal waves swept through the northern part of Sumatra on Sunday continued to increase.

The new political landscape: Triumph of pragmatism in the 2004

The new political landscape: Triumph of pragmatism in the 2004 general election by Chusnul Mar'iyah For someone who has experienced working in conflict zones like West Kalimantan, Ambon, Poso and Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, and who worked with the student demonstrators in 1998 to bring down the Soeharto regime, both as a woman and an activist, the sense of deja vu that accompanied the unfolding of the "civil war" and my involvement as a member of the electoral commission (KPU, 2001-2006) in...

Pasar Minggu layout to undergo changes

Pasar Minggu layout to undergo changes JAKARTA: The South Jakarta municipal administration plans to make changes to the spatial layout of Pasar Minggu district, in a bid to ease chronic traffic congestion and to clear the area from sidewalk vendors. "Without a comprehensive plan, it would be impossible to ease the traffic and to make the sidewalk vendors occupy the kiosks that have been provided for them," Mayor Dadang Kafrawi said on Monday.

Golkar welcomes Akbar's opponent

Golkar welcomes Akbar's opponent Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Dismissed Golkar politician Marzuki Darusman is heading back to the House of Representatives after the party's new central executive board annulled a previous decision to fire him. "The punishment has been annulled. The problem has been settled.

Challenges and opportunities for SBY in Addressing violence

Challenges and opportunities for SBY in Addressing violence Sidney Jones Indonesia continues to be plagued by astonishingly diverse forms of violence: vigilantism, communal conflict, armed insurgencies and counter-insurgency responses, terrorism, land and resource disputes, and shoot-outs between the army and police. That's not counting the occasional high-profile murder of a beloved public figure like Munir. The challenges for Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, also popularly known as SBY, are enormous.