Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 May 2004

93 articles found

Latest edition of Porsche Cayenne hits the road

Latest edition of Porsche Cayenne hits the road Porsche Cayenne V6 more tolerable for Jakarta streets Novan Iman Santosa Jakarta What's the point in driving a powerful sports utility vehicle (SUV) around Jakarta's notoriously jammed streets? While you may not be able to satisfy your need for speed, an SUV can provide passengers the comfort of solid suspension and smooth movement, which will make all those hours spent in traffic jams that much more enjoyable.

Inflat: (3x19)

Inflat: (3x19) Boediono optimistic about this year's inflation target 2. Cyber: (2x27) Govt to set up team to cope with increasing cyber crime 3. Gas (2x24) Nine firms given permits to distribute gas PGN to cut size of bond sale 5.

RP to host ASEAN

RP to host ASEAN antipiracy summit THE PHILIPPINES: The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is mulling a regional system to strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), the Philippines said on Wednesday. ASEAN IPR experts and trade officials are to meet in Manila in August to discuss the plan, said Edu Manzano, chairman of the Philippines' Optical Media Board, which is spearheading the effort.

PT Gajah Tunggal clarifies

PT Gajah Tunggal clarifies In line with the clarification written on May 21 by Rebecca Lee, Head of Communications at Michelin Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. Singapore, regarding the article published in The Jakarta Post on May 15, I would also like to clarify that in our report to the Stock Exchange, we have clearly stated that there are two different agreements signed between Michelin and PT Gajah Tunggal (GT): A manufacturing agreement and a distribution agreement.

KPU, Panwaslu relations turn sour over Gus Dur

KPU, Panwaslu relations turn sour over Gus Dur M. Taufiqurrahman, Jakarta Differences over ways to handle complaints filed by Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid have aggravated relations between the Election Supervisory Committee (Panwaslu) and the General Elections Commission (KPU).

Pakistani school in Menteng given a year to move

Pakistani school in Menteng given a year to move Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso gave the Embassy School of Pakistan a year to move to another location in the city as the school is presently located in the plush area of Menteng in Central Jakarta, which is designated as a residential area. "I give the school management a year to look for a new location.

Asia needs economic community

Asia needs economic community Akira Kojima, The Straits Times, Asia News Network, Singapore China and other parts of Asia are embracing possibilities for further development and the establishment of a regional community in the 21st century. However, the development process is not a straight line. There are uncertainties and risks involved, so strategic cooperation among Asian countries is essential.

How many more 'Nirmalas'?

How many more 'Nirmalas'? Reports on the torture of an Indonesian maid in Kuala Lumpur have shocked both Indonesia and Malaysia, while the message coming from Malaysia through its leaders' remarks regarding swift legal action has been loud and clear. Malaysia's top-ranking officials have said that such "inhumane" practices are "intolerable" and that the perpetrator could face up to 80 years in jail.

Screening starts for ambassadorship candidates

Screening starts for ambassadorship candidates JAKARTA: The House of Representatives (DPR) began on Wednesday the screening of 16 candidates for ambassadorships, including in South Korea, Canada, Cambodia, and Thailand. Permadi, a legislator from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) of the House Commission I overseeing foreign affairs, said the screening would be completed by Friday. "We can't tell the public the candidates' names for ethical reasons.

Experts suggest ombudsman for media

Experts suggest ombudsman for media Urip Hudiono, Jakarta In light of increasing libel suits against the press, experts are suggesting that media enterprises establish an ombudsman to examine the news before publication and to mediate in case of complaints. Deputy chairman of the Press Council, R.H.

Motor oil additive demand on the rise

Motor oil additive demand on the rise JAKARTA: Demand for moto oil additive are estimated to see an increase between 6 percent and 8 percent this year, said a licensee and producer of Agip oil additive here PT Agip Lubrindo Pratama (ALP). General Manager of Agip distributor Pt Bahana Ramli Sulistyo said demand for oil additive will reach 100 million kiloliters and 200 million kiloliters for motorcycles, boosted by a 15 percent increase in motorcycle usage.

Makro stages 'Extravaganza'

Makro stages 'Extravaganza' JAKARTA: Makro Indonesia is holding its annual HoReKa Extravaganza to promote food and nonfood products for hotels and restaurants. The second HoReKa Extravaganza, which is being held from Wednesday to Thursday in the Balai Samudra hall in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta, will feature an exhibition, seminar and product demonstrations. The Dutch-based wholesaler first held the event in 2003. Makro now has 14 outlets in the country, eight of them in Greater Jakarta. -- JP

Haj dormitory construction unclear

Haj dormitory construction unclear TANGERANG: The proposed construction of the Banten haj dormitory in Curug subdistrict remains unclear although it has been approved by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The 12-hectare plot of land for the dormitory is still owned by locals although the Tangerang regency administration claimed earlier that the land was donated by PT Lippo Karawaci. Curug residents said on Tuesday that they were not aware of the plan. "Why weren't we informed?

1. ICG: 60 pt, 2 cols, 4 x 10

1. ICG: 60 pt, 2 cols, 4 x 10 Police may arrest outspoken activists 2. PKB: 40 pt, 4 cols, 1 x 28 PKB confirms support for Wiranto 3. CRASH: 36 pt, 3 cols, 2 x 22 Seven killed as train plows into bus in Jember

The issue of leadership in Indonesian democracy

The issue of leadership in Indonesian democracy Satish Mishra, Jakarta During its Second Wave of Reform Indonesia must complete three inter-related tasks in record time: Abandon dictatorship in favor of a more open and representative political system, establish competitive and fair market systems, and, while this great transformation is attempted, reduce pressures for social divisions and violence. It is a task beyond the competence of text books and clever state officials.

1. BBM: 2 LINES, 20 COUNTS

1. BBM: 2 LINES, 20 COUNTS Govt fears larger deficit due to high oil prices 2. SEOUL: 2 LINES, 21 COUNTS South and North Korea to continue military talks 3. PERTH: 1 LINE, 40 COUNTS JI infighting canceled bombing, Roche testifies 4. AMNESTY: 2 LINES, 24 COUNTS RI's anti-separatism bid fueled rights abuses: Amnesty

Illegal logs confiscated and concessionaire named suspect

Illegal logs confiscated and concessionaire named suspect PC Naommy, Jakarta Police have confiscated 21,627 cubic meters of illegal logs over two separate security operations held in East Kalimantan province on April 14 and May 13, and named three suspects, including a forest concessionaire. National Police spokesman Insp. Gen. Paiman said on Wednesday in Jakarta that the illegal logging operations would have cost the state Rp 20 billion in losses, if it had not been uncovered.

Aqua to pay out Rp 10.5b dividend

Aqua to pay out Rp 10.5b dividend JAKARTA: Shareholders of beverage producer PT Aqua Golden Missisipi approved the company's plan on Wednesday to allocate 17 percent of its 2003 net profit for the paying of a dividend this year. The company, which produces Aqua bottled mineral water, plans to pay out Rp 10.52 billion (US$1.16 million), or Rp 800 per share, as a dividend to its shareholders. The company booked a net profit of Rp 62 billion last year.

Police eye outspoken activists

Police eye outspoken activists Tiarma Siboro and Muninggar Sri Saraswati, Jakarta Authorities are closely monitoring activists of 20 local and foreign non-governmental organizations (NGO), a move that could herald a crackdown on outspoken government critics. National Police chief Gen. Da'i Bachtiar said on Wednesday that his office took as a warning a report that 20 local and foreign NGOs were issuing reports that could trigger security disturbances in the July 5 presidential election.

Police rescue 13 women in North Sumatra

Police rescue 13 women in North Sumatra The Jakarta Post, Medan/Bandung/Kupang Police officers in Medan, North Sumatra, claimed on Wednesday that they had rescued 13 women seeking work in Malaysia, who had been locked up by labor recruitment agency PT Bagus Bersaudara for two weeks at its office on Jl. Danau Limboto. The women from East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) province were freed after their families, who had not heard from them for two weeks, contacted the police.

Govt to set up team to cope with increasing cyber crime

Govt to set up team to cope with increasing cyber crime Tony Hotland, Jakarta The government plans to establish an "emergency response" team to deal with cases of cyber fraud, especially those involving credit cards. Tulus Rahardjo, frequency supervision director at the Ministry of Communications, said preliminary discussions on the team were underway.

Aspirants seeks NU support before poll

Aspirants seeks NU support before poll Suherdjoko and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, Pekalongan/Jakarta As the presidential election fast approaches, presidential and vice presidential aspirants are scrambling to win the support of the country's Muslim organization, the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU).

RI country risks remain high

RI country risks remain high Johanes L. Sitanggang, Jakarta A modicum of political stability has returned to Indonesia. However, the long-term outlook remains clouded in uncertainty as the country's transition to a transparent and stable democracy faces numerous obstacles, ranging from powerful vested interests of the previous and current regimes to an immature party system and the centrifugal forces of separatism.

Safari Park gains Sumatran tigers

Safari Park gains Sumatran tigers BOGOR: A Sumatran tiger, Riau, gave birth to twin cubs, a male and female, on Sunday at the Indonesian Safari Park, Cisarua, Bogor. The first was born at 12:45 a.m., followed by the second around 70 minutes later. The birth weight of each was 1.4 kilograms. Park veterinarian Yohana said on Tuesday that Riau did not want to feed her cubs because one had a defective leg and the other a deformed head.

Presidential election

Presidential election The direct presidential election to be held on July 5 will see five candidates vying for the top post. The General Elections Commission (KPU) drew their all-important electoral numbers last Saturday.

Senior Poso official held over aid misuse

Senior Poso official held over aid misuse Ruslan Sangadji and Rusman, Poso/Samarinda While in Central Sulawesi, Poso Social Affairs Office head Anwar Ali has been detained for allegedly embezzling funds earmarked for refugees; in East Kalimantan, East Kutai Legislative Council speaker Abdal Nanang has been charged with graft.

'Buses should only stop at bus stops'

'Buses should only stop at bus stops' The Jakarta administration plans to construct a monorail and expand the busway system, yet it still has not completed an evaluation of the four-month-old Blok M to Kota busway route. Another thing the administration has not done is work up a grand design for the transportation system in the capital. The Jakarta Post talked to residents about the issue. Matthew, 30, is an Australian who works in the business district in Central Jakarta.

Pornography definition, bill contents unclear: NGO

Pornography definition, bill contents unclear: NGO A. Junaidi, Jakarta Activists and experts supported on Wednesday an antipornography bill, but urged the government and the House of Representatives to drop several controversial articles in the bill, including those banning of erotic dances and kissing on the lips in public.

Thai hopes to seal deal by late July

Thai hopes to seal deal by late July BANGKOK: English football giants Liverpool has agreed to sell Thailand a 30 percent stake in the club but final signing of the deal may be delayed until late July, a Thai official said on Wednesday. Thai deputy commerce minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisarn said a final decision on whether to go ahead with the deal now rested with Thailand after Liverpool accepted demands set out by Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

PKB warns members to remain loyal

PKB warns members to remain loyal SURABAYA, East Java: An executive of the local chapter of the National Awakening Party (PKB) has warned that it would throw out any PKB members involved in campaigning for the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P). PKB East Java deputy chairman Fathurrosjid said on Wednesday that four East Java councillors of the PKB faction were included in the PDI-P campaign team for incumbent President Megawati Soekarnoputri and Nahdlatul Ulama leader Hasyim Muzadi.

Govt to provide 13th-month bonus to civil servants

Govt to provide 13th-month bonus to civil servants Moch. N. Kurniawan, Jakarta The government passed on good news on Wednesday to around 5 million active and retired civil servants and Indonesian Military and National Police personnel that they would receive doubled salaries and pension funds in June.

FKM leader's son-in-law moved as precaution: Police

FKM leader's son-in-law moved as precaution: Police P.C. Naommy, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The police officer son-in-law of Maluku Sovereignty Forum (FKM) leader Alexander Manuputty has been transferred by the Maluku City Police to Tual in Southeast Maluku. The man, who has been identified only as First Brig. AK, is the husband of Christin Kakisina, who is currently in police custody at National Police Headquarters. National Police chief Gen.

Gold price in the local market to continue rise

Gold price in the local market to continue rise Zakki P. Hakim Jakarta A combination of a falling rupiah and the rising international price of gold is pushing the price of the commodity up in the local market. Experts say that the higher price trend here would likely continue, particularly if the rupiah continues to be under pressure.

Govt fears larger deficit due to high oil prices

Govt fears larger deficit due to high oil prices Dadan Wijaksana and Rendi A. Witular, Jakarta The government will submit, as early as July, a revision to the 2004 state budget to the House of Representatives -- earlier than scheduled -- which is likely to include a higher assumption for oil prices and a larger budget deficit.

Nine companies given permits to distribute gas

Nine companies given permits to distribute gas Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government has issued interim permits to nine companies to distribute natural gas for industrial consumers, a senior official said on Wednesday. Head of Oil and Gas Downstream Business (BPH Migas) Tubagus Haryono said the permits were for trading and transporting natural gas through pipelines.

[b]

The issue of leadership in Indonesian democracy Satish Mishra Jakarta 2. Klemen -- Indonesian country risks 1 x 30 RI country risks remain high Johanes L. Sitanggang Jakarta

Chrisjon to defend WBA title against Sato

Chrisjon to defend WBA title against Sato Suherdjoko, Semarang World featherweight champion Christian John of Indonesia will defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) title against Osamu Sato in Tokyo next week. He left for Japan on Wednesday, accompanied by trainer Sutan Rambing and promoter Daniel Bahari. "I will fight to the best of my ability out there. Sato is undeniably a tough opponent.

JAKARTA: Saying that the General Elections Commission (KPU)

JAKARTA: Saying that the General Elections Commission (KPU) had successfully organized a democratic and transparent election, the United States invited the commission on Wednesday to provide technical assistance for the polls in Iraq, expected to take place in January 2005. KPU deputy chairman Ramlan Surbakti said after a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Ralph L.

Seven killed as train plows into bus in Jember

Seven killed as train plows into bus in Jember ID Nugroho, Surabaya Another railway disaster hit the country's railways on Wednesday as a passenger train smashed into a bus in Jember regency, East Java, killing at least seven people and injuring 21 others. The accident, involving a Mutiara Timur train and a bus operated by the Akas Asri company, occurred in Garahan village, Silo Jember subdistrict, at around 3:15 a.m.

1. BALI1 1x35

1. BALI1 1x35 RI youth learn the hard facts of adulthood 2. BARB 1x42 Youngsters need to be embraced, not blamed: Huberman

Judge receives anti-graft award

Judge receives anti-graft award PADANG, West Sumatra: The Masyarakat Profesional Madani (MPM) bestowed on Wednesday its Anti-Graft Fighter Award 2004 to justice Bustami Nusyirwan for fighting corruption in West Sumatra province. Bustami, president of the Padang District Court, was awarded for his courage in sentencing 43 West Sumatra provincial councillors to jail for corruption.

Vietnam's trade deficit nears $2b

Vietnam's trade deficit nears $2b HANOI: Vietnam's trade deficit hit US$1.96 billion in the first five months of the year, preliminary figures showed on Wednesday. Exports during the period rose 17.4 percent to $9.55 billion, while imports increased 13 percent to $11.51 billion, according to the General Statistics Office. -- AFP

Govt launches books on labor

Govt launches books on labor JAKARTA: The Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration, in cooperation with the International Labor Organization (ILO), launched on Wednesday a publication titled Major Labor Laws of Indonesia. The publication is a compilation of three major labor laws: Law No. 21/2000 on labor unions, Law No. 13/2003 on manpower and Law No. 2/2004 on industrial relations disputes.

PGN to cut size of bond sale

PGN to cut size of bond sale The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Publicly-listed state gas distribution company PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) has cut the size of a proposed bond sale from an initial target of US$350 million to between $200 million and $225 million due to a bearish market. PGN announced in February plans to issue $350 million of ten- year bonds by October to raise funds for expansion.

Boediono optimistic about this year's inflation target

Boediono optimistic about this year's inflation target Rendi A. Witular and Dadan Wijaksana, Jakarta Minister of Finance Boediono said on Wednesday the inflation rate this year would likely be in line with the government's projections, despite fears in the financial market the current decline in the rupiah could fuel inflation. "Based on our recent study with Bank Indonesia, the inflation rate target this year will remain on track at 6.5 percent.

Poso skeptical about Komnas HAM

Poso skeptical about Komnas HAM POSO, Central Sulawesi: National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) members again visited Poso regency to look into alleged human right abuses during the 2000 sectarian riots, but received a cold reception from local residents. Achmad Ali and Hasto Atmodjo visited both Muslim and Christian communities from Monday to Wednesday.

Indonesia too strong for Japan in round-1 clash

Indonesia too strong for Japan in round-1 clash The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia scored an impressive 54-run victory over Japan on Tuesday on day one of the 11-a-side International Cricket Council tournament in Japan. This day-one clash of the ICC EAP Cricket Challenge was played at the scenic Fujigawa grounds at the base of Mt. Fuji. The match was billed as a clash between the ICC's strongest East Asia teams, and proved to be a tightly fought contest.

U.S. invites KPU to polls in Iraq

U.S. invites KPU to polls in Iraq JAKARTA: Saying that the General Elections Commission (KPU) had successfully organized a democratic and transparent election, the United States invited the commission on Wednesday to provide technical assistance for the polls in Iraq, expected to take place in January 2005. KPU deputy chairman Ramlan Surbakti said after a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Ralph L.

JP/1/BOMB

JP/1/BOMB Another bomb rocks Ambon AMBON, Maluku: A powerful explosion and two gunshots were heard on late Wednesday in the troubled city of Ambon, only a day after a bomb exploded in Batu Meja Market, Sirimau subdistrict, and killed one and injured 12 others. The explosion and gunshots was believed to have come from Sirimau's Mardika hamlet, which was abandoned by Christian refugees. No fatalities were reported in the incident.

RP to host ASEAN antipiracy summit

RP to host ASEAN antipiracy summit THE PHILIPPINES: The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is mulling a regional system to strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), the Philippines said on Wednesday. ASEAN IPR experts and trade officials are to meet in Manila in August to discuss the plan, said Edu Manzano, chairman of the Philippines' Optical Media Board, which is spearheading the effort.

JI infighting canceled embassy bombing, Roche testifies

JI infighting canceled embassy bombing, Roche testifies Jamie Tarabay, Associated Press/Perth, Australia Alleged Jamaah Islamiyah (JI) chief Abu Bakar Ba'asyir personally called off a planned bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Canberra, a British-born Islamic convert charged with plotting the attack told police. The testimony from terror suspect Jack Roche was further evidence of Ba'asyir's control of the Southeast Asian, al-Qaeda- linked terror group.

Jakarta to diminish Puteh's power

Jakarta to diminish Puteh's power Muninggar Sri Saraswati, Jakarta Despite earlier assurances that the governor of Nanggroe Aceh Darrussalam would remain in charge of the civil emergency administration, a presidential instruction to be issued on Thursday will effectively curtail his powers.

Police get tough on gambling

Police get tough on gambling Evi Mariani, Jakarta The Jakarta Police have detained a total of 138 suspects engaged in gambling activities since January in an apparent effort to improve the image of the force, following media reports saying that police have turned a blind eye to existing gambling dens in the capital. "In our latest raids from May 21 to May 25, we detained 46 people from around 250 nabbed in three gambling dens," the city police spokesman Sr. Comr. Prasetyo told reporters.

JP/5/FOCUS

JP/5/FOCUS Councillor jailed over fake diploma BANDARLAMPUNG, Lampung: The Tanjungkarang High Court endorsed on Tuesday a verdict by a lower court that sentenced councillor Dwi Sutarno to 10 months in jail with a probation period of 20 months, for forging a school diploma. Sutarno, from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), was elected a councillor on the Lampung municipality council, after the April 5 general election.

TV Program: Thursday, May 27, 2004

TV Program: Thursday, May 27, 2004 .TB.30" .90" TVRI 6:00 a.m. News: Berita Pagi 7:00 Children Show Pentas Ceria 7:30 Music 10:00 Talk Show: Wirausaha 11:00 Singing Contest: Konteswara 12:00 p.m.

20% of monthly traffic victims children, say Jakarta Police

20% of monthly traffic victims children, say Jakarta Police Evi Mariani, Jakarta Around 50 children in the Greater Jakarta area are killed in traffic accidents every month, or an estimated 20 percent of total victims, according to Jakarta Police data. "The number is devastating. As part of our efforts to minimize the number, we have tried to foster knowledge on road safety among children," city police head of traffic Sr. Comr. Sulistyo Ishak said on Wednesday.

240 Brimob officers return home from Aceh

240 Brimob officers return home from Aceh BANDUNG: After six months of serving in conflict-torn Aceh, 240 officers of the police's Mobile Brigade returned to their hometown of Bandung, West Java, on Wednesday, where they were greeted by family and friends. West Java Police deputy chief Sr. Comr. Ras'jif Sofian greeted the 240 officers, saying he welcomed the change of status in Aceh.

Latest edition of Porsche Cayenne hits the road

Latest edition of Porsche Cayenne hits the road Novan Iman Santosa, Jakarta What's the point in driving a powerful sports utility vehicle (SUV) around Jakarta's notoriously jammed streets? While you may not be able to satisfy your need for speed, an SUV can provide passengers the comfort of solid suspension and smooth movement, which will make all those hours spent in traffic jams that much more enjoyable.

Six die in gang fight in Bengkulu

Six die in gang fight in Bengkulu The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Two platoons of police officers were deployed to a village in Bengkulu province on Sumatra island on Wednesday after at least six people were killed and two others injured in a machete fight. The deadly clash erupted on Tuesday between residents of Pal VII village, Bermani Ulu subdistrict, Rejang Lebong regency, Antara reported. It was not clear what caused the fight.

Danamon, BRI named best banks

Danamon, BRI named best banks JAKARTA: Investor magazine has named Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) and Bank Danamon as the country's banks of the year in terms of capital adequacy ratio, loan to deposit ratio, return on assets, return on equity, net interest margin and deposit ratio. BRI and Danamon received the awards for the recapitalized banks with assets exceeding Rp 50 trillion (US$5.5 billion) category.

Youngsters need to be embraced, not blamed: Huberman

Youngsters need to be embraced, not blamed: Huberman Barbara Kemp Huberman, director of the International Outreach Program for the Washington-based Advocates for Youth, spent three days working with Indonesian youth in Kuta, Bali. Having traveled around the world for the last two decades as a proponent of youth advocacy, Huberman shared her feelings and experience with The Jakarta Post regarding the problems of youth across the world. The following are the highlights of the interview.

Former Lampung council speaker's son detained over bomb attacks

Former Lampung council speaker's son detained over bomb attacks Oyos Saroso H.N., Bandarlampung Chandra, 35, a son of Lampung Legislative Council's former speaker Abbas Hadisunyoto was officially detained as a suspect on Wednesday for his alleged role in recent terror attacks in the provincial capital of Bandarlampung. He was charged with involvement in the throwing of a bomb at the education and training center of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) on Jl.

City to scrap 200 buses as part of new busway

City to scrap 200 buses as part of new busway Damar Harsanto, Jakarta The city's second busway corridor from Kalideres in West Jakarta to Pulogadung in East Jakarta will result in the decommissioning of around 200 buses operating on routes that overlap with the 33- kilometer express corridor.

3 x 12

3 x 12 Police rescue 13 women in N. Sumatra JP/5/graft 1 x 41 Senior Poso official held over aid misuse JP/5/TRAWL 2 x 28 Fisheries office accused of granting Thai trawlers permits JP/5/fight 2 x 18 Six die in gang fight in Bengkulu JP/5/bomb 2 x 30 Former Lampung council speaker's son detained over bomb attacks JP/4/log 2 x 28 Illegal logs confiscated, concessionaire named suspect

RI youth learn the hard facts of adulthood

RI youth learn the hard facts of adulthood The Indonesian Coalition for Health and Johns Hopkins University's Center for Communications Programs invited 200 advocates, policymakers, donors and young activisits to a gathering in Kuta, Bali, from May 14 to May 16, to devise programs and policies to help young people deal with their problems and achieve their dreams. The Jakarta Post's Rita A. Widiadana discusses the results of the gathering in the following articles.

PKB confirms support for Wiranto

PKB confirms support for Wiranto The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Surabaya/Semarang Presidential candidate Gen. (ret) Wiranto of the Golkar Party and running mate Solahuddin Wahid finally secured support from the National Awakening Party (PKB) on Wednesday, but not from but its influential cofounder Abdurrahman Wahid.

RI to push Malaysia on worker protection

RI to push Malaysia on worker protection Dewi Santoso and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, Jakarta Minister of Manpower and Transmigration Jacob Nuwa Wea left on Wednesday for Malaysia to push for the signing of a bilateral agreement on protection of Indonesians working in the informal sector in that country. Indonesia and Malaysia signed earlier this month a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Indonesian migrant workers employed in the formal sector. The MOU, which will come into effect on Aug.

Ford's Superstore in Surabaya

Ford's Superstore in Surabaya JAKARTA: PT Ford Motor Indonesia (FMI) has made a bold move by expanding its outlets across the country with another Superstore, this one in Surabaya, on May 24 just 10 days after opening a new Superstore in Semarang. Surabaya residents contributed more than 70 percent of total vehicle sales in East Java in 2003 with 25,850 units out of some 40,000 units. In 2002, there were 37,000 vehicles sold in the province.

Water rate hike proposed in June

Water rate hike proposed in June TANGERANG: Tangerang regency water company PDAM Tirta Kerta Raharja (TKR) will increase its rates by between 10 percent and 30 percent starting June. Currently, the rate is Rp 2,500 (27 U.S. cents) per cubic meter. Starting next month, the rate will be between Rp 2,750 and Rp 3,500 per cubic meter. The increase will be imposed for commercial subscribers only.

City under fire for 'discrimination' against sidewalk vendors

City under fire for 'discrimination' against sidewalk vendors Damar Harsanto, Jakarta The city administration was slammed on Wednesday for what critics said was its harsh treatment of sidewalk vendors, while at the same time turning a blind eye to businesses being run out of houses not designated for commercial or business purposes.

Mandatory contributions to social security

Mandatory contributions to social security Hasbullah Thabrany, Jakarta A recent article by Alex Arifianto that appeared in The Jakarta Post criticized the National Social Security System (SJSN) as disregardful of the role of a free and competitive market, the budget deficit, individual accounts and management of monopolies. Other observers have argued that the introduction of the SJSN may affect Indonesia's attractiveness to investors and would thus influence economic growth.

Fishery officials accused of granting Thai trawlers permits

Fishery officials accused of granting Thai trawlers permits Apriadi Gunawan, Medan A North Sumatra councillor has alleged that many Thai trawlers operating in North Sumatra waters had obtained fishing permits from the provincial fisheries office. Member of Commission VI of the legislative council (DPRD) Abdi Nusa Tarigan said that dozens of Thai trawlers had obtained permits and were now depleting fishery resources in the area.

Telkom to ring in code changes next year

Telkom to ring in code changes next year Yuli Tri Suwarni, Bandung With PT Indosat entering the country's fixed-line telecommunications market, which was monopolized by PT Telkom for decades, telephone access codes nationwide will undergo significant changes starting April 1 next year. Telkom spokesperson Mundarwiyarso said on Wednesday that new three-digit codes would be added to existing codes.

Manado resident reports Pertamina

Manado resident reports Pertamina MANADO, North Sulawesi: Theo Gerungan, 52, has reported state oil and gas company PT Pertamina to the police for allegedly occupying his land illegally since 1968. The disputed 13,500 square-meter plot is located in Bitung, 37 kilometers north of provincial capital Manado. A Bitung Police officer confirmed on Wednesday that the report against Pertamina had been filed on April 24 and was being investigated. -- JP

* Govt to diminish Puteh's power Page 2

* Govt to diminish Puteh's power Page 2 * Bill bans erotic dancing, kissing in public Page 4 * Police rescue 13 women in N. Sumatra Page 5 * The issue of leadership in Indonesian democracy Page 6 * City under fire for discriminating' against vendors Page 8 * Indonesia too strong for Japan in round-1 cricket clash Page 9 * Caribbean storms claim over 502 lives Page 11 * Boediono optimistic about this year's inflation target Page 13 * RI youth learn the hard facts of adulthood Page 18

RP manufacturing output down 11%

RP manufacturing output down 11% MANILA: Philippines manufacturing output fell 11 percent from a year earlier in inflation-adjusted terms in March, the government said on Wednesday. The drop was far sharper than the revised 0.8 percent year-on- year decline in February. The manufacturing sector's average capacity utilization rate stood at 78.6 percent in March compared with a revised 78.4 percent in February. -- AFP

RP to host ASEAN antipiracy summit

RP to host ASEAN antipiracy summit MANILA: The 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is mulling a region-wide system to strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), the Philippines said on Wednesday. ASEAN IPR experts and trade officials are to meet in Manila in August to discuss the plan, said Edu Manzano, chairman of the Philippines' Optical Media Board, which is spearheading the effort.

Strange bedfellows won't have synergy

Strange bedfellows won't have synergy From Media Indonesia In their search for political allies, our presidential candidates have not described their political platforms and programs for the advancement of the country. This gives an impression the political elite only seek to gain power, status and money. The would-be leaders' missions are actually of prime importance as points of reference when any pair of them is later elected to lead the nation.

Glaxo to probe food poisoning

Glaxo to probe food poisoning JAKARTA: Glaxo-SmithKline, producer of Ribena beverage, expressed concern on Tuesday over alleged food poisoning in Surabaya that resulted in 40 elementary school students being hospitalized. The company has claimed responsibility over the alleged food poisoning, which ensued after the students drank free Ribena blackcurrant-flavored beverage. The beverage was distributed by Glaxo-SmithKline as a promotional effort to Barata Jaya I Elementary School.

Jakarta vies for PON title

Jakarta vies for PON title Eva C. Komandjaja, Jakarta The Jakarta Sports Council has set itself the target of regaining the overall championship winner's title at the 16th National Games (PON) in Palembang, South Sumatra, this September. Jakarta had been the overall champion since the seventh PON in 1969 until the last edition in Surabaya in 2000 when it was pushed into second place by the host in the final standings.

Pipemaker gets ISO certificate

Pipemaker gets ISO certificate JAKARTA: Steel pipe producer PT Seamless Pipe Indonesia Jaya, a subsidiary of Bakrie & Brothers Tbk., received on Wednesday an ISO 14001 certificate for its environmental protection management program. The firm said in a statement that the certificate proved its commitment to meeting international standards and would make it better prepared to face global competition. The firm exports its products to Southeast Asia, China, the Middle East and Europe. -- JP

Court orders KPU to recount ballot

Court orders KPU to recount ballot Muninggar Sri Saraswati, Jakarta The Constitutional Court ordered on Wednesday the General Elections Commission (KPU) to recount ballot papers in 754 polling stations in Sampang regency on Madura island in a bid to obtain hard evidence for a lawsuit filed by the National Awakening Party (PKB) against the commission.

City's registered voters total 7 million for election

City's registered voters total 7 million for election Bambang Nurbianto, Jakarta The Jakarta General Elections Commission (KPU Jakarta) recorded 555,881 more voters as the registration for presidential election closed on Tuesday, making a total of 7,050,332 eligible voters for the presidential election. KPU Jakarta chairman Muhamad Taufik said on Wednesday that the figure included all five municipalities and the Thousand Islands regency.

S'pore manufacturing output up 22%

S'pore manufacturing output up 22% SINGAPORE: Singapore manufacturers produced 22.2 percent more goods in April compared with a year earlier, the government said on Wednesday. Excluding output from the biomedical sector, Singapore's industrial production rose 12.9 percent in April from the same month a year ago. In March, Industrial output rose 10.3 percent on year, the Economic Development Board said in a statement.

Asian markets finish mostly higher following U.S. gains

Asian markets finish mostly higher following U.S. gains Associated Press, Hong Kong Prices in Tokyo and most other smaller Asian markets rose on Wednesday as investors took cues from Wall Street's rally the day before. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average of 225 stocks advanced 189.36 points, or 1.72 percent, to 11,152.09 points. On Tuesday, the index shed 138.71 points, or 1.25 percent. Investors bought shares of leading Japanese exporters and technology companies.

Kalbe Farma reaches deal with creditors

Kalbe Farma reaches deal with creditors JAKARTA: Pharmaceutical company PT Kalbe Farma said it has reached a deal with its creditors to restructure $85 million of debt, paving the way for more investment to expand its business. After a series of negotiations the working group of creditors agreed to the debt restructuring proposal, Kalbe Farma's Director Vidjongtius said in a statement Wednesday. Under the proposal, the company will reschedule the maturity of its debt to 2010 from 2005.

Laskar Jihad leader meets home minister

Laskar Jihad leader meets home minister JAKARTA: Home minister Hari Sabarno received on Wednesday Ambon Mayor Yopie Papilaya and the former leader of disbanded hard-line Muslim group Laskar Jihad, Ja'far Umar Thalib, following renewed violence in Ambon, Maluku. Details of the meeting at the ministry was not released. Last month, Ambon again flared up, resulting in the deaths of 41 people and hundreds of others were injured.

In search of the right, comfortable SUV

In search of the right, comfortable SUV Zatni Arbi, Contributor/zatni@cbn.net.id My twelve-year old Honda Civic has been forcing me to make the trips to the repair shop at an increasing frequency of late. The signals are loud and clear: It's time to change my horse. But, there are a couple of things that must be taken into account as I mull over what to replace it with. To start with, as you must also have noticed, the flooding in Jakarta just gets worse each year.

RI's anti-separatism bid fueled rights abuses: Amnesty

RI's anti-separatism bid fueled rights abuses: Amnesty Agencies, London/Jakarta Indonesia resorted to increasingly repressive methods last year in its attempts to crush separatist movements in Aceh and Papua provinces, Amnesty International said on Wednesday.

RI maid's testimony false: Prosecutor

RI maid's testimony false: Prosecutor SINGAPORE: The prosecution wrapped up its case against an Indonesian maid accused of murdering her employer by describing Sundarti Supriyanto's testimony as "incredible and unbelievable", news reports said on Wednesday. The 23-year-old woman is accused of murdering employer Angie Ng, 33, with a knife in her office on May 28, 2002. The bodies of Ng and her daughter, 3-year-old Chrystal Poh, were found near a toilet in the office.

Forestry correction

Forestry correction The May 18 article in The Jakarta Post, Tree DNA marker may curb illegal logging, addressed a number of issues discussed at the Indonesia-Italy Workshop on Wood research and Industrial Needs for the Forestry Wood. Unfortunately, in doing so the article made several basic errors and failed to present my views within their larger context. For starters, I am not a DNA expert as stated in the article.

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, May 13, 2004

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, May 13, 2004 .TB.30" 1.0" Exhibitions * Ceramic and Painting by Philip Lakeman and Graham Oldroyd, at Jenggala Ceramic Jl. Uluwatu 2, Jimbaran, Kuta, until June 3. Museums and Galleries * Sika Galery, Jl. Raya Campuhan Sanggingan, Ubud (Tel. 0361 975727, 975085) * Blue Moon Gallery, Jl. Tirta Tawar, Banjar Kutuh Kaja, Ubud (Tel. 0361 976727), daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. * Museum Puri Lukisan, Jl. Raya Ubud, Gianyar (Tel. 0361 975136), daily, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Presidential candidates

Presidential candidates From Koran Tempo Of all the presidential and vice presidential candidates to contest the presidential election on July 5, only the pair of Wiranto and Solahuddin Wahid are interesting because, of late, there has been a renewed and intensified demand for a resumption of the legal process surrounding human rights violations allegedly involving Wiranto.