Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 February 2004

85 articles found

BIN predicts smooth and peaceful general elections

BIN predicts smooth and peaceful general elections Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Chief of the National Intelligence Agency (BIN) Lt. Gen. (ret.) A.M. Hendropriyono foresees no (major) security disturbances that could obstruct the upcoming general election, saying several minor conflicts may occur but they could be kept under control.

Golkar, PDI-P coalition possible: Taufik

Golkar, PDI-P coalition possible: Taufik The Jakarta Post, Surabaya/Jakarta Influential Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) member Taufik Kiemas expressed interest in a formal coalition with the Golkar Party in the presidential elections, although this idea was quickly dismissed by his colleagues.

Aceh military goes after activists

Aceh military goes after activists Nani Farida, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh The Aceh martial law administrator has vowed to go after non- governmental organization (NGO) activists in the province, saying many of them were accomplices of the separatist Free Aceh Movement (GAM). "What is certain is that the activists arrested (by security officers) are involved in the separatist movement," martial law administration spokesman Col. Ditya Sudarsono said on Wednesday.

Rusydan gets 3 years for hiding bomber

Rusydan gets 3 years for hiding bomber M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The South Jakarta District Court sentenced on Wednesday the acting leader of regional terrorist network Jamaah Islamiyah (JI) to three years and six months in prison for harboring one of the perpetrators of the Bali bombings. The verdict was lighter than the prosecutors' demand of nine years.

Persikota wins 1-0 in Indonesian league

Persikota wins 1-0 in Indonesian league Multa Fidrus, The Jakarta Post, Tangerang Aliyudin scored the only goal as Persikota Tangerang defeated Persija Jakarta 1-0 in an Indonesian soccer league match at the Benteng Stadium here on Wednesday. The goal was delivered in the 72nd minute during a somewhat bizarre spell in front of Persija's goal to the delight of some 20,000 fans. Aliyudin shot the ball toward goalie Mukti only to hit his teammate Gendut Doni's foot.

* Headlines: RI needs new tactics to heal ailing economy 3

* Headlines: RI needs new tactics to heal ailing economy 3 * National: Human rights abuses deteriorate: NGOs 4 * Archipelago: W. Timor hopes UN relief agencies will return 5 * Opinion: UN role needed in Iraq more than ever 7 * City: Why RI becomes hotbed for cyber crimes 8 * Sports: Ryder Cup flavor for Mickelson at Match Play 9 * World: Kerry rolls to easy wins in three more states 11 * Business: IBRA's days are officially numbered 13 * Features: Inul gets the women dancing in Singapore 20

One barrier removed

One barrier removed Even though the ruling will not become effective until 2009, it is no exaggeration to say that by restoring the rights of former members, and relatives of former members, of the outlawed Indonesian Communist Party (PKI) to run in legislative elections, the Indonesian Constitutional Court has made a historic decision.

Merpati makes maiden flight linking Denpasar with Sumbawa

Merpati makes maiden flight linking Denpasar with Sumbawa Wahyoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar/Sumbawa The 18-passenger Twin Otter Merpati Nusantara Airlines landed smoothly on the new airstrip in Sekongkang district, Sumbawa island in West Nusa Tenggara province, marking the first commercial flight to arrive in this beach area, a haven for surfers and turtles alike.

Astra projects sales to grow 10%

Astra projects sales to grow 10% Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Publicly listed automotive giant PT Astra International estimates sales this year will grow by between 5 percent and 10 percent on an increase in new car sales, especially from the newly launched Toyota Avanza and Daihatsu Xenia multipurpose vehicles.

Presidential decree on IBRA closure finalized: Dorodjatun

Presidential decree on IBRA closure finalized: Dorodjatun Fabiola Desy Unidjaja and Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency's days are officially numbered, as the drafting of a presidential decree on its formal closure has been finalized, Coordinating Minister of the Economy Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti said on Wednesday. The IBRA will stop all its business, effectively shutting down, on Friday. "Consequently, there will be no transactions from Feb.

Inul gets the women dancing and the men panting

Inul gets the women dancing and the men panting Helmi Yusof, The Straits Times, Asia News Network, Singapore Life's not fair, it seems, for sexy and controversial Indonesian singer Inul Daratista. "People look at Tina Toon and exclaim: 'How adorable! How cute!' But for me, they say something else," she tells Life! in a slightly raised voice after her two-hour mini-concert recently at Marine Parade Community Centre.

UN role in Iraq needed more than ever

UN role in Iraq needed more than ever Desra Percaya, Diplomat, Indonesian Mission to the United Nations, New York The primary responsibility of the United Nations (UN), as underlined in its Charter, is maintaining international peace and security. Despite its many successes, the organization has also had its failures.

Govt to build trans-Sulawesi railway

Govt to build trans-Sulawesi railway MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: The government plans to build a 1,900- kilometer railway track to link Sulawesi's four provinces. Sulham Hasan, the head of the South Sulawesi transportation office, said on Wednesday that the project would commence this year, with first 150 kilometers being laid to connect Makassar and Parepare regency.

Court rules in favor of fired workers

Court rules in favor of fired workers Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung, West Java Hundreds of fired workers from state-owned aircraft manufacturer PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PT DI) welcomed the Jakarta State Administrative High Court's (PTTUN) verdict, which requires the Bandung-based company to reinstate its employees and pay their salaries for the dispute period.

Cyber crime rampant in Indonesia

Cyber crime rampant in Indonesia Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A lack of law enforcers with adequate knowledge about electronic criminals and the courts' unreadiness to try perpetrators have made Indonesia a fertile ground for cyber crime, an expert says. "The police have detained some (money) card fraudsters several times but they could not take them to court," University of Indonesia law and technology institute senior researcher Rapin Mudiardjo told The Jakarta Post recently.

Up for election

Up for election Along with voting for political parties and legislative candidates in the House of Representatives (DPR) and City/Regency Council (DPRD) on April 5, voters will also pick candidates for the new Regional Representatives Council (DPD). The DPD will have four members from each of the 32 provinces and together with the 550 elected DPR members, will make up the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR).

UN role in Iraq needed more than ever

UN role in Iraq needed more than ever Desra Percaya Diplomat Indonesian Mission to the United Nations New York 2. Nation -- Abdullah's war on corruption makes political sense 1 X 45 Abdullah's war on corruption makes political sense Pavin Chachavalpongpun The Nation Asia News Network Bangkok 3. Asahi -- 6-way talks, round 2 1 x 30 Six-way nuclear talks, round two The Asahi Shimbun Tokyo

Stamping out smuggling is a difficult task that must be

Stamping out smuggling is a difficult task that must be supported by all parties concerned; otherwise, it will be futile. Tin has been smuggled out of Indonesia since the 18th century, when Indonesia was still a Dutch colony. Today, tin smuggling is increasing in frequency and volume, especially because a lot of non-traditional tin mines are operated by individuals. Much of this tin is smuggled abroad without any taxes paid to the local administration.

Buana mulls acquisitions, mergers

Buana mulls acquisitions, mergers JAKARTA: Publicly listed Bank Buana Indonesia said on Wednesday it was mulling acquisitions or mergers to enable it to expand business operations and meet the capital requirement set recently by Bank Indonesia. "Acquisitions will be made to provide value added to Buana, whether they be banks or finance companies, as long as they have strong financial footing," the bank president Jimmy Kurniawan Laihad said.

Bob Hasan reelected as PASI chairman

Bob Hasan reelected as PASI chairman Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Timber tycoon and corruption convict Mohammad "Bob" Hasan, who last week was released from a maximum security prison, was reelected for the seventh straight time since 1982 as chairman of the Indonesian Athletics Association (PASI) on Wednesday. He was released on parole last Friday after serving two-thirds of his six-year prison sentence for misusing US$75 million in funds belonging to the ministry of forestry.

Bengkala, village touched by a god

Bengkala, village touched by a god Jagadhita, Contributor, Buleleng, Bali They can neither speak nor hear, but the Balinese revere these people as they believe they are protected by the gods. They are 33 kolok (deaf and mute villagers) who form a community in Bengkala village, Kubutambahan district, Buleleng regency. They have existed for many years. Why Bengkala, outsiders may ask.

1. INVESTMENT: 50 pt, 3 cols, 3 x 18

1. INVESTMENT: 50 pt, 3 cols, 3 x 18 Indonesia needs new approaches to heal economy say experts 2. KADIN: 36 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 28 Mega scorns tight entrepreneurs 3. QUAKE: 30 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 24 Survivors struggle after Morocco quake kills 564 4. BEIJING: 2 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 38 U.S., North Korea lay their cards on the table 5. CHESS: 28 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 38 Danny Juswanto closer to claiming GM title White: IM Danny Juswanto (2505) Black: GM Antoaneta Stefanova (2478)

Govt says university tuition Rp 18m

Govt says university tuition Rp 18m SURABAYA: The tuition fee for state university students should be set at Rp 18 million (US$2,143) per year per student, a senior government official said on Wednesday. Director General of Higher Education Satryo Soemantri Brodjonegoro said the amount of money would be sufficient to pay laboratory fees, lecturers' salaries and maintenance of other facilities. "I am talking about the ideal amount, which is unlikely for the time being.

Bureaucracy reform meeting in March

Bureaucracy reform meeting in March MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: President Megawati Soekarnoputri is scheduled to open the national administrative reform meeting, which will take place on March 3 through March 5. Coordinating ministers for People's Welfare Jusuf Kalla, for the Economy Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti and for Political and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudoyono will all speak at the national meeting, South Sulawesi Governor Amin Syam said on Wednesday.

1. SECURITY: 50 pt, 3 cols, 3 x 18

1. SECURITY: 50 pt, 3 cols, 3 x 18 BIN predicts smooth and peaceful general elections 2. TNI: 36 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 28 TNI to remain neutral in elections 3. FLOOD: 30 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 25 Canal construction still hampered by land clearance 4. GOLKAR: 28 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 38 Golkar and PDI-P coalition possible: Taufik

Ordinary people can

Ordinary people can fight corruptors From Koran Tempo Former president Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid has said the power of people cannot defeat the evil power of unscrupulous politicians or corruptors because the population is so big that it can be fragmented easily. Gus Dur's negative and pessimistic tone in facing corruptors is not favorable to the nation's struggle.

Govt agrees to extend Kangean block contract

Govt agrees to extend Kangean block contract The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government has agreed to extend the gas contract in the Kangean block, East Java, operated by Anglo-American energy company BP Plc in order to help overcome the gas shortage in the province.

Pedophiles a real threat!

Pedophiles a real threat! With disgust and fury beyond description, I read the reports about pedophiles in Bali in The Jakarta Post. Perverts take advantage of the increasing poverty on the island, offering toys, sweets, pens, schoolbooks and money to young schoolchildren, just to gain their trust and affection. Later, they lure them to their hotel rooms or private houses, molest, rape and even severely hurt these innocent creatures.

Winning in the race in local MPV market

Winning in the race in local MPV market Agus W. Soehadi, Contributor, Jakarta An interesting development in Indonesia's automotive market is the boom in sales of Multi Purpose Vehicles (MPVs), which have topped those of sedans, Indonesian Automotive Industry Association data shows. The growth rate of the MPV market is about 5 percent annually and MPVs made up almost 50 percent of total car sales last year.

Japan likely to be top investor in monorail

Japan likely to be top investor in monorail Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The city administration is likely to drop Malaysian firm MTrans Holding Sdn. Bhd. from the top monorail investor position as it is eying the possibility of having Japanese firm Hitachi carry out the project. "We have given the Malaysian company the chance to comply with our demands. But, as of today, we have not received any reply.

An unbalanced report

An unbalanced report I want to comment on an article by Aguswandi that appeared on Feb. 9, titled The cheapening of loyalty, Indonesian style. Whatever his convictions, he should be able to write a balanced and intelligent report on the Aceh crisis, especially in The Jakarta Post, whose readers consist of educated Indonesians and expatriates. As it is, the article is riddled with emotion only fit for a yellow paper. I hope next time he uses more intelligence and less emotion.

UN welcomes ASEAN peacekeeping force, promises help

UN welcomes ASEAN peacekeeping force, promises help Adianto P. Simamora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The United Nations welcomed on Wednesday Indonesia's proposal to build a regional peacekeeping force and promised to provide assistance to make it a reality. The peacekeeping force is an integral part of the ASEAN Security Community (ASC) concept, which is designed to resolve regional conflicts and maintain security in the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region.

Religious leaders pledge neutrality

Religious leaders pledge neutrality 2. 3 x 14 Government curtails human rights: activists 3. 2 x 30 Govt. told to settle cases of juvenile crime lawfully 4 1 x 28 Tender winners unable to print ballots 5. 1 x 27 Aceh military goes after activists

Protests against crooked politicians held in Wonosobo, Jayapura

Protests against crooked politicians held in Wonosobo, Jayapura Nethy Dharma Somba and Slamet Susanto, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura/Wonosobo Students and farmers held demonstrations against crooked politicians on Tuesday and Wednesday in Central Java and Papua provinces respectively, urging people not to vote for such politicians in the upcoming general elections.

Jakarta government to fumigate, not educate

Jakarta government to fumigate, not educate The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The death toll from dengue fever has reached 255 while 13,765 others have been hospitalized for the disease since early this year, the Ministry of Health said on Wednesday, an increase of more than 10 deaths since 241 deaths were reported by the office on Tuesday. The worst affected provinces include Jakarta, West Java, Central and East Java, East and West Nusa Tenggara, Yogyakarta and Bali, Minister Ahmad Suyudi said.

Men arrested with monkey meat

Men arrested with monkey meat JEMBER, East Java: Jember regency police foiled an attempt to smuggle monkey meat from Buleleng regency, Bali, and have declared four people suspects. The four, who are being detained at the Temporejo Police station, have been identified as I Ketut Mika, Gusti Putu Surarja, I Wayan Widana and I Wayan Werte. All are residents of Buleleng regency. Temporejo Police chief Adj. Comr.

'Former PKI members need rights restored'

'Former PKI members need rights restored' The Constitutional Court is moving closer to restoring the rights to vote and run in the legislative elections to former members and relatives of former members of the now banned Indonesian Communist Party (PKI). The Jakarta Post spoke with residents about this issue and communism, which previous leaders used to invoke as a clear and present danger to the nation. Asep Teguh, 30, is a taxi driver.

Bimantara aims to raise Rp 750b via rights issue

Bimantara aims to raise Rp 750b via rights issue Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Publicly listed media and telecommunications conglomerate PT Bimantara Citra plans to sell more of its shares on the stock market via a rights issue, in order to fund the expansion of its media and telecommunications businesses. Bimantara president Harry Tanoesoedibjo said the company planned to raise around Rp 750 billion (US$89 million) from the issue, slated for next month.

Muslims vow to enhance education, economy

Muslims vow to enhance education, economy Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Muslim scholars ended an international conference on Tuesday with the establishment of a joint secretariat in Jakarta that plans to strengthen the role Muslims play in global education and economic development.

Bringin Life sees higher net profit

Bringin Life sees higher net profit JAKARTA: Life insurance company PT Bringin Life expects net profit this year to increase by 11.4 percent from last year's 43.98 billion. Company president Sriwiyono said on Wednesday that premium income was projected to grow by 16.5 percent to Rp 650 billion from Rp 466.06 billion despite the upcoming general elections, which would reduce effective working days to only 11 months or less during the year.

The Indonesian film industry has seen a revival recently with

The Indonesian film industry has seen a revival recently with the production of a number of new films featuring young local talent with youngsters obviously the target market. One particularly successful film is Ada apa dengan cinta (What's up with love?). To repeat the success of the film, TV spinoffs that continue the ideas have been made. Unfortunately, the stories in these programs don't come as naturally as the story in the film.

Fitch assigns B+ to RI global bond

Fitch assigns B+ to RI global bond JAKARTA: Fitch Ratings, a global rating agency, said on Wednesday it expects to assign a long-term foreign currency rating of B+ to the country's forthcoming dollar-dominated sovereign bonds, which will mature in 2014. The rating, with the outlook being stable, was underpinned by prudent fiscal policy, macroeconomic stability and sustained improvements in the country's solvency and liquidity in recent years, the agency said in a statement.

Stamping out smuggling is a difficult task that must be

Stamping out smuggling is a difficult task that must be supported by all parties concerned; otherwise, it will be futile. Tin has been smuggled out of Indonesia since the 18th century, when Indonesia was still a Dutch colony. Today, tin smuggling is increasing in frequency and volume, especially because a lot of non-traditional tin mines are operated by individuals. Much of this tin is smuggled abroad without any taxes paid to the local administration.

[b]Religious factor in

Religious factor in U.S.-Muslim relations Muhamad Ali Lecturer State Islamic University (UIN) Sharif Hidayatullah Jakarta 2. Pat -- There is a solution, and it's in our hands 2 x 30 There is a solution to corruption, and it lies in our own hands Patrick Guntensperger, M.A. Business Consultant Jakarta ttpguntensperger@hotmail.com

Mega scorns tight entrepreneurs

Mega scorns tight entrepreneurs Leony Aurora and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri chided businesspeople for being spoiled and unwilling to spend their own money to promote their products abroad, instead depending heavily on the government.

Tender winners unable to print ballots

Tender winners unable to print ballots Moch. N. Kurniawan and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Some winners of the General Elections Commission (KPU)'s ballot paper printing project were unable to fulfill their obligations, the commission said on Wednesday. The KPU official in charge of the ballot paper tender, Mulyana W. Kusumah, said 11 tender winners had requested Temprina Media Grafika and the State Printing Company (PNRI) take over some of the printing work.

Govt curtails human rights, activists says

Govt curtails human rights, activists says Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The human rights condition in the country has been deteriorating since the government announced wars on separatism and terrorism last year, rights watchdogs said. The Human Rights Watch Group (HRW) said the government's policies on the two issues had sparked new humanitarian and human rights crises in the country, worsening its human rights record.

Economic resurrection depends on unity

Economic resurrection depends on unity On the occasion of a meeting of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) during which a new Kadin chairman was appointed, this daily wants to reaffirm that our success in bringing Indonesia out of the economic crisis depends on the business sector's seriousness in doing its best, including the creation of job vacancies for unemployed people trapped in poverty.

Civil resistance

Civil resistance against GAM rebels From Media Indonesia At least eight people including a high school student have allegedly again been taken hostage by the separatist Free Aceh Movement (GAM) amid the apparent government's attempt to release RCTI cameraman Fery Santoro and possibly hundreds of others. GAM's move has apparently shown its lack of good will to set free all hostages and rendered its promises meaningless.

1. JAGAD -- 1 x 35

1. JAGAD -- 1 x 35 Bengkala, village touched by a god 2. WAHYU -- 1 x 56 Merpati makes maiden flight linking Denpasar with Sumbawa

President's men given tax awards

President's men given tax awards Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri attended a glamorous ceremony on Wednesday to present awards to the country's 262 most compliant individual and corporate taxpayers, some of whom she knew intimately. The winners included her husband, Taufik Kiemas, her brother, Guruh Soekarnoputra, and the publicly-listed Bank Mandiri. Her own name, however, was not on the list.

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, February 26, 2004

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, February 26, 2004 .TB.30" 1.0" Exhibitions * Painting What is behind a Picture? at K. Sudana Gallery - Campuhan, Ubud. The exhibition will be opened by a performance by I Ketut Sugantika: Journey of a Pig, the exhibition continues until Feb. 29. * Painting Spiritual Jewels by Walter Van Oelat Agung Rai Museum of Art, Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Gianyar, at 6:30 p.m., until March 27.

Verdict is not final: Minister

Verdict is not final: Minister Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The decision by Kampar Regency Council to dismiss Kampar regent Jefri Noer and his deputy A. Zakir is not final, according to Minister of Home Affairs Hari Sabarno. The decision can only take effect when President Megawati Soekarnoputri endorses it, he said on Wednesday. "The President has the sole authority to decide whether the decision is lawful.

Stamping out smuggling is a difficult task that must be

Stamping out smuggling is a difficult task that must be supported by all parties concerned; otherwise, it will be futile. Tin has been smuggled out of Indonesia since the 18th century, when Indonesia was still a Dutch colony. Today, tin smuggling is increasing in frequency and volume, especially because a lot of non-traditional tin mines are operated by individuals. Much of this tin is smuggled abroad without any taxes paid to the local administration.

More new names to enter the car market this year

More new names to enter the car market this year I. Christianto, Contributor, Jakarta Concerns over possible unrest in the upcoming national elections are likely to slow the high growth in the country's car market this year. Sedans will be the most affected by the projected slower demand while sales of Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) are expected to continue to increase thanks to the entry of several new names in this particular car market.

BIN identifies Hambali's network

BIN identifies Hambali's network JAKARTA: The National Intelligence Agency (BIN) has obtained from the United States reliable data describing Riduan Isamuddin alias Hambali's terrorist network, an intelligence officer says. BIN chief Hendropriyono said here on Wednesday that his office had received the data after sending questions to the U.S., where Hambali has been held since his arrest last August in Thailand.

M'sians nabbed for illegal logging

M'sians nabbed for illegal logging JAKARTA: National Police chief Gen. Da'i Bachtiar said on Wednesday the police have arrested 15 Malaysians for their alleged involvement in illegal logging in Papua. "Illegal logging has been discovered in Papua and we have arrested 15 Malaysians allegedly involved in the activity," Da'i told a hearing with the House of Representatives. Police, he said, had caught red-handed the foreigners felling trees in a restricted area.

Indonesia needs new approaches to heal economy: Experts

Indonesia needs new approaches to heal economy: Experts Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Jump-starting Indonesia's ailing economy will require "unconventional methods" to draw back foreign investment and overcome the pressing problem of unemployment, experts have said. Chairman of the Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) Sofjan Wanandi said on Wednesday that one way would be by freezing the minimum wage, as it could help address the issue of massive unemployment faced by the country.

U.S. urged to persuade UN relief agencies to return to West Timor

U.S. urged to persuade UN relief agencies to return to West Timor Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara Piet A. Tallo, the governor of East Nusa Tenggara province, has called on the United States to persuade the United Nations to cancel the emergency status currently imposed by the world body on the West Timor area.

Former justice probed on 'unreasonable behavior'

Former justice probed on 'unreasonable behavior' Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former justice Adi Andojo Soetjipto, who currently chairs the Trisakti University Board of Rectors, underwent four hours of questioning on Wednesday by South Jakarta Police over a complaint filed by the university's former rector, Thoby Mutis. The police named Adi a suspect in a violation of Article 335 of the Criminal Code on forcing or impeding others from doing something through unreasonable behavior.

Probe into ecstasy cop finished

Probe into ecstasy cop finished JAKARTA: City Police narcotics division chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Anjan P. Putra said on Wednesday that the investigation of a police officer, who was allegedly in possession of 900 ecstasy pills, had been completed last week. "The case of Comr. Puja Laksana is now in the hands of the West Jakarta prosecutors' office, which is still preparing the indictment," he said as quoted by Tempointeraktif. Puja is a member of the National Police antigraft unit.

Canal construction still hampered by land clearance

Canal construction still hampered by land clearance Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Recent floods in Jakarta that claimed six lives should serve as a warning for the city administration to build the East Flood Canal as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, the planned project has been delayed as the administration lacks the funds for land clearance for the canal.

Hendri leads seeds to Cigna 3rd round

Hendri leads seeds to Cigna 3rd round Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia's No. 2 Hendri Susilo Pramono won his second-round match over Ferdi Fauzi as seeded players marched to the next stage of the US$11,800 Cigna Open tennis tournament at the Jakarta Hilton International's Executive Club on Wednesday. One hundred and fifty-five players are competing in the fifth edition of the tournament, which is offering a total US$11,800 in cash prizes.

Governors to gather in Maluku on revision of autonomy law

Governors to gather in Maluku on revision of autonomy law Muhammad Azis Tunny, The Jakarta Post, Ambon, Maluku The governors of all 32 provinces in Indonesia are scheduled to gather in Ambon on March 3 to discuss the ongoing revision of the regional autonomy legislation as well as to ensure postconflict security in the province ahead of the legislative election on April 5.

Conservation leader to get Getty Prize

Conservation leader to get Getty Prize BALI: Conservationist Haji Masdjuni, the regent of Berau, East Kalimantan, will receive the prestigious J. Paul Getty Wildlife Conservation Prize for his achievement in sea turtle protection. The prize will be presented during the World Wide Fund for Nature Indonesia's Turtle Night 2004 charity dinner at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park in Jimbaran, Bali, on Friday.

TNI to remain neutral in elections

TNI to remain neutral in elections A. Junaidi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Indonesian Military (TNI) has pledged to maintain its neutrality in the upcoming general election, its chief said on Wednesday. In a hearing with the House of Representatives's Commission I on defense, TNI Commander Gen. Endriartono Sutarto said this would represent a small break with tradition. "We will remain neutral. We will keep the same distance from all political parties," Endriartono said.

M'sians nabbed for illegal logging

M'sians nabbed for illegal logging JAKARTA: National Police chief Gen. Da'i Bachtiar said on Wednesday the police have arrested 15 Malaysians for their alleged involvement in illegal logging in Papua. "Illegal logging has been discovered in Papua and we have arrested 15 Malaysians allegedly involved in the activity," Da'i told a hearing with the House of Representatives. Police, he said, had caught red-handed the foreigners felling trees in a restricted area.

PSM upset by Krung Thai Bank

PSM upset by Krung Thai Bank Andi Hajramurni, The Jakarta Post, Makassar, South Sulawesi Playing before 16 thousand home fans in the Mattoangin Stadium, PSM lost 3-2 to Krung Thai Bank in a Group F match, in the Asian Champions League here on Wednesday. It was PSM's second defeat after a 1-5 drubbing by Hoang Ahn Gia Lai of Vietnam.

Audi A8: A limousine for a sporty driver

Audi A8: A limousine for a sporty driver Primastuti Handayani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The automotive premium market segment in Indonesia welcomes the Audi A8, claimed to be a sporty limousine, amid the fiercer competition among carmakers. The car still relies on its Vorsprung durch Technik philosophy, meaning advance through technology. The A8 has the sporty character and design, strengthened with a sunroof and the 19 inch alloy wheel.

Religious factor in U.S.-Muslim relations

Religious factor in U.S.-Muslim relations Muhamad Ali, Lecturer, State Islamic University (UIN) Sharif Hidayatullah, Jakarta Nahdlatul Ulama, the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia, is hosting an international conference of Islamic scholars from over 40 countries, discussing world peace, education, the global economy and the mass media. At the same time, the U.S Embassy in Jakarta will distribute books on U.S.

An unbalanced report

An unbalanced report I want to comment on an article by Aguswandi that appeared on Feb. 9, titled The cheapening of loyalty, Indonesian style. Whatever his convictions, he should be able to write a balanced and intelligent report on the Aceh crisis, especially in The Jakarta Post, whose readers consist of educated Indonesians and expatriates. As it is, the article is riddled with emotion only fit for a yellow paper. I hope next time he uses more intelligence and less emotion.

Government told to settle cases of juvenile crime lawfully

Government told to settle cases of juvenile crime lawfully Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A government-funded children's organization urged the government on Wednesday to follow the due process of law for children implicated in crimes. "Some 95 percent of criminal cases involving children were settled without the presence of attorneys or adult family members," said Fachri Bey, deputy head of the Pra Yuwana child protection organization.

State legislation on PKI members

State legislation on PKI members Sept. 30, 1965 - Blames attempted coup d'etat on PKI 1966 - Emergency People's Consultative Assembly (MPRS) issues MPRS Decree No. 25/1966 outlawing PKI as a political party, any activities disseminating or developing Communist, Marxist or Leninist teachings and ideologies in Indonesia - Punishes, incarcerates or exiles members or alleged members of PKI and affiliate organizations, either legally or extrajudicially - Stamps ID cards of those jailed or exiled E.T.

An unbalanced report

An unbalanced report I want to comment on an article by Aguswandi that appeared on Feb. 9, titled The cheapening of loyalty, Indonesian style. Whatever his convictions, he should be able to write a balanced and intelligent report on the Aceh crisis, especially in The Jakarta Post, whose readers consist of educated Indonesians and expatriates. As it is, the article is riddled with emotion only fit for a yellow paper. I hope next time he uses more intelligence and less emotion.

No more student scholarships?

No more student scholarships? From Suara Karya In this period of reform many college students are deprived of the opportunity to further their studies because of high tuition fees. Meanwhile, there are a dearth of government-sponsored scholarships for students with high achievements. In the past, there was the Super Semar scholarship foundation, a semi-government institution providing scholarships to model students. Since the end of the New Order, this foundation has no longer been functional.

No more student scholarships?

No more student scholarships? From Suara Karya In this period of reform many college students are deprived of the opportunity to further their studies because of high tuition fees. Meanwhile, there are a dearth of government-sponsored scholarships for students with high achievements. In the past, there was the Super Semar scholarship foundation, a semi-government institution providing scholarships to model students. Since the end of the New Order, this foundation has no longer been functional.

Govt may cut tariff on steel import

Govt may cut tariff on steel import The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is considering slashing import duty tariffs on steel to between 5 and 10 percent to ensure high global prices would not hurt local industry, the customs head said. Director General of Customs and Excise Eddy Abdurrachman said on Wednesday a study was exploring the possibility of reducing the tariffs, which currently stand at between 20 and 25 percent.

Amien-Susilo,

Amien-Susilo, an ideal pairing? From Koran Tempo Reform of the nation is going nowhere, so the idea of Amien Rais and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as the country's prospective leaders seems appropriate in order to restart the process. Amien Rais has been one of the initiators of reform. He is legally flawless, a professor, not part of the New Order and has a good commitment to reform. Though some dislike him, at least he deserves a chance to prove himself.

Religious leaders pledge neutrality

Religious leaders pledge neutrality Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Religious leaders pledged on Wednesday to remain neutral in the general election and appealed to the followers of the various religions to maintain their composure in the face of provocation from political parties. Muhammadiyah Chairman Ahmad Syafii Maarif, Solahuddin Wahid from Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) Chairman Rev.

Swissasia retains Bank Lippo management

Swissasia retains Bank Lippo management Leony Aurora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Swissasia Global, the new controlling owner of publicly listed Bank Lippo, has decided in an extraordinary shareholders meeting to retain Joseph Luhukay as president and Mochtar Riady as chairman of the board of commissioners.

PDI-P councillor's diploma disappears

PDI-P councillor's diploma disappears BOGOR: Bogor police deputy chief Comr. Budi Prasetyo said the original copy of the high school diploma of recently elected deputy mayor Mochamad Sahid was missing, and was thus impeding the investigation into the alleged use of a fake diploma in January's mayoral election. "Sahid said the diploma was still at the city administration office, but the officials there said they had returned it to him after the case was made public.

Govt told to change policy on ex-PKI cadres

Govt told to change policy on ex-PKI cadres The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Constitutional Court's decision to reinstate the constitutional rights of former communist members and their families members has sparked calls for an end to all discrimination against them.

SIA most admired company in Asia

SIA most admired company in Asia Singapore: Singapore Airlines (SIA) has been voted the most admired company in Asia outside of Japan in an annual Fortune magazine poll of business executives, said a report on Wednesday. This is the third straight year the airline has won the honor, and SIA was the only Asian company outside of Japan to make Fortune's 50 company "All-Star" list. But its position slipped to number 32 this year, down from number 21 last year, reported The Straits Times newspaper.

JP/1/HOUR3

JP/1/HOUR3 Justice, judge get awards: Justice Abdurrahman Saleh and judge Amirudin Zakaria of the Supreme Court were presented the Lopa Award late on Wednesday at the Proclamation Monument in Central Jakarta -- but they did not show up. Abdurrahman was the only justice who added a dissenting opinion in the verdict announced on Feb. 12, which cleared Golkar leader and House Speaker Akbar Tandjung of charges he abused Rp 40 billion (US$4.8 million).

Tutut, Amien to attend mass prayer

Tutut, Amien to attend mass prayer MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: Former president Soeharto's daughter Siti "Tutut" Hardijanti Rukmana and People's Consultative Assembly Speaker Amien Rais are expected to attend a ritual for casting out evil in the South Sulawesi regency, Gowa, on March 5. The two prominent figures will be among 5,000 people from the province's 28 regencies/mayoralties to gather in the mass prayer, known as National Songkabala.