Archive: 28 December 2005
93 articles found
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Longtime records fall at club championships
Longtime records fall at club championships Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A slew of enduring age-group records fell on the first day of the 27th Swimming Clubs Championship on Tuesday, with officials saying it may mark a revival in national swimming. Harizal, 14, Pratama Siahaan, 12, Ali Fatkurrohman and Yesy V. Yosaputra, both 10, all set new marks in their age groups at Bung Karno Swimming Pool in Senayan, Central Jakarta.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Patching up decentralization to boost the service delivery
Patching up decentralization to boost the service delivery Riyadi Suparno The Jakarta Post/Jakarta There were many positive changes to local democracy in 2005, especially the direct elections of regional heads, but too often this did not translate into the improved delivery of services. Therefore, the challenge for 2006 will be to help our burgeoning local democracy improve the delivery of services, especially to the poor. Why does improving services to the poor matter?
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Bakrie unit secures pipe deal from PGN
Bakrie unit secures pipe deal from PGN PT Bakrie & Brothers, a diversified group with companies in the infrastructure, plantation, property and telecommunications sectors, announced on Tuesday that its unit and partner had sealed a contract worth Rp 374 billion (US$38.1 million).
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
The fall of the Soeharto regime also saw economists lose their
The fall of the Soeharto regime also saw economists lose their traditional tools to analyze the economy. Under the centralized New Order system these were the causal relations between the creation of economic policy and interest groups. The newly appointed Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Boediono, once said economic policy-makers needed to be isolated from day-to-day politics (BIES, Dec. 2005). Now we have a much more confusing reality, which requires a new approach to economic analysis.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
RI-S'pore ties growing stronger despite hiccups
RI-S'pore ties growing stronger despite hiccups Adianto P Simamora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Despite the changes in leadership in Indonesia and its tiny neighbor Singapore, relations between both countries have remained good and cordial in 2005. The days have gone when two consecutive Indonesian presidents, B.J. Habibie and Abdurrahman Wahid, launched verbal onslaughts on the city-state for the latter's non-cooperation on certain matters.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Terrorism in Indonesia
Terrorism in Indonesia Sidney Jones Jakarta 2005 brought a sobering reminder of the lethal power of terrorism: * 6 Indonesians shot as they slept in Ceram, Maluku on May 16; * 22 Indonesians killed by a bomb in a crowded Saturday morning market in Tentena, Central Sulawesi on May 28; * 14 Indonesians and 6 foreigners killed by suicide bombers in Bali on 1 October.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
'Bajaj' to have total make over
'Bajaj' to have total make over JAKARTA: An object of resentment as it often seen as a source of sound and air pollution in the capital, the three- wheeled diesel-fueled bajaj will soon be modernized. An official of Jakarta's Association of Public Transportation Owners (Organda DKI), Jauhari Perangin-angin, said on Tuesday that 3,000 bajaj belonging to 100 individuals would be modified.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Indonesian politics in 2006
Indonesian politics in 2006 Rizal Sukma Jakarta As Indonesia enters 2006, the general political outlook presents a rather positive picture. There are strong grounds to believe that national politics will be characterized more by continuity than by change. In other words, no major political upheavals are expected over the next year.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
CD;
CD; 1. BI chief becomes highest-paid official Page 3 2. Stackhouse keeps Mavericks moving Page 5 3. Year-enders: World scene 2005 Pages 13-20
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Council to endorse Rp 17t budget
Council to endorse Rp 17t budget Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After two weeks of delays due to tough deliberations over the city administration's big spending earmarked in the 2006 budget, the City Council is ready to pass the draft budget on Wednesday nearly unchanged.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Siemens, Lilama sign $212m deal
Siemens, Lilama sign $212m deal HANOI: German engineering giant Siemens has signed a contract worth more than US$212 million to provide equipment for a gas power plant in southern Vietnam, an official said on Tuesday. Under the contract signed with Vietnam's Machinery Installation Corp. (Lilama), Siemens will supply equipment for the 750 megawatt Ca Mau 2 power plant, said Lilama spokesman Nguyen Khac Tiep. "Construction of the plant will start at the earliest," he said.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
BI chief to end up as highest paid official
BI chief to end up as highest paid official Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Bank Indonesia (BI) board of governors will become the highest paid state officials in the country, with its top chief expecting to bring home at least Rp 141.32 million (US$14,420) per month.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Where to go in Bali for Thursday, December 29, 2005
Where to go in Bali for Thursday, December 29, 2005 .TB.30" 1.0" Exhibitions * Photo by Natisa Jones at Three Monkeys Cuisine and Art Cafe, Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, until Jan. 22 * Fine Arts Beauty for Peace by Joni K. Soaloon, Ganesha Gallery Four Season Resort Bali, at Jimbaran Bay, until Jan. 13 Performances * Siluet Band, Hard Rock Hotel, Jl. Pantai, Banjar Pande Mas, Kuta (Tel. 0361 761869), nightly at 8:30 p.m., except Sunday * Capsoul Band, Hard Rock Hotel, every Sunday at 8:30 p.m.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Hunger in Yahukimo
Hunger in Yahukimo From Kompas After the previous cases of hunger and malnutrition in West and East Nusa Tenggara, there have been reports that at least 50 people have died of hunger and 112 others are suffering from famine-related diseases in Yahukimo regency, Papua. This is tragic because the deaths of so many people were due to hunger rather than ailments such as malaria, which can still be found in this easternmost province.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
1. FOOD -- 3x12
1. FOOD -- 3x12 Officials warn of chemicals in local food 2. APPROVE -- 1x32 Council to endorse Rp 17t budget 3. BOGOR -- 1x36 Bogor wants to eschew dirty city label 4. DRUGS -- 2x27 Navy officer nabbed for drug dealing, illegal gun ownership 5. SPEAK -- 2x18 'Hopefully religious harmony will return'
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
3,000 police officials, diplomats
3,000 police officials, diplomats Abdul Khalik and Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta As a response to a warning by the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) that terrorist groups might shift targets to high-ranking officials and foreign diplomats, Jakarta Police have deployed 3,000 officers with specific tasks to guard the officials and their relatives. Chief of operations at city police Sr. Comr.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Xanana says refugees can opt to return home
Xanana says refugees can opt to return home Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang Timor Leste President Xanana Gusmao said on Tuesday that refugees from his country now living in East Nusa Tenggara province would be welcome to return home. "It's up to the people to make the best decision. Timor Leste's doors are always open. A few years ago we urged them to come home, but now it is totally up to them to decide," he said during his one-day visit to the province where he met Governor Piet A.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Endy M. Bayuni
Endy M. Bayuni Jakarta This Christmas provided another fine display to the outside world of the religious tolerance that has developed among peoples of different faiths in Indonesia, the country with the world's largest Muslim population. As Christians observed Christmas inside churches, hotel ballrooms and other venues, outside, young people from Muslim organizations worked with the police to provide security.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/Y/FILML
JP/Y/FILML Many local films released, but has quality improved? Lisabona Rahman and Paul F. Agusta Contributors/Jakarta Indonesian cinema saw an eventful year in 2005, with more than 50 titles either released or produced, making it the most prolific year in Indonesia's film history in almost a decade.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
No great expectations in sports for 2006
No great expectations in sports for 2006 Bruce Emond Jakarta The sports year is scheduled to get off to a blazing start in January when the A1 motor racing competition stops by Sentul, Bogor. Hopefully, it will go off with a roar and not a sputter: There have been questions about the preparedness of the circuit to host the championships -- a rival to F1 featuring 24 teams representing different nations -- on Jan. 15.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Greater self-confidence and the need for
Greater self-confidence and the need for cogent foreign policy approach: Outlook for 2006 Bantarto Bandoro Jakarta A free and active (proactive) foreign policy has characterized Indonesia since its independence. This basic policy has shown a remarkable degree of resilience and adaptability. It will remain so in the future.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Timor Leste's past: Let it be or bare it all?
Timor Leste's past: Let it be or bare it all? John McBeth The Straits Times Asia News Network/Singapore It was five years ago. Sitting at the kitchen table in a small, nondescript house on Dili's sun-baked foreshore, the soon- to-be president of Timor Leste was talking about the future.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Sect followers get day in court
Sect followers get day in court PALU, Central Sulawesi: Prosecutors are preparing multiple charges against 11 followers of the Madi Islamic sect in Central Sulawesi for allegedly attacking police during a raid by the officers in October. Prosecutor I Putu Djeladha said here on Tuesday the defendants would be charged under the Criminal Code and Emergency Law No. 12/1951 for illegally possessing firearms, sharp weapons and explosives.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Careful policy mix is critical now
Careful policy mix is critical now Kahlil Rowter Jakarta Without doubt 2005 was a turbulent year. The rupiah and gross domestic product (GDP) growth fell substantially while inflation and interest rates rose dramatically. Late policy responses caused the crisis to spread from microeconomic to macroeconomics. Therefore policy adjustments caused a shock to the system. The situation has since stabilized, and confidence in economic management has resurfaced.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
2005: A year of no clean air to breath
2005: A year of no clean air to breath Tb. Arie Rukmantara The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Indonesians in many parts of the country were still unable to enjoy clean air this year due to chronic pollution.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
RI foreign policy a case of style over substance
RI foreign policy a case of style over substance Meidyatama Suryodiningrat, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta If ever there was a time for Indonesia to have a banner year in foreign affairs, it was 2005.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Religious freedom: Quo vadis?
Religious freedom: Quo vadis? Franz Magnis-Suseno SJ Jakarta 2005 has been a bad year for religious freedom in Indonesia. More regencies introduced regulations based on religious law, thereby disregarding the legislation that stipulates that religious matters are the exclusive prerogative of the central government. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) declared the Ahmadiyah organization as a dissenting Islamic movement in July.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
The Indonesian economy in 2006
The Indonesian economy in 2006 Ross H. McLeod Canberra Indonesia's economic performance next year is likely to be similar to that in 2005. Output growth -- the key determinant of changes in individuals' incomes -- should remain around 5.5-6 percent per annum. Inflation is likely to decline steadily, with significant reductions in the year-on-year rate in March and October as the impact of the 2005 fuel price increases disappears.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Society and tolerance
Society and tolerance Several articles in The Jakarta Post have referred to the need to refute proponents of terrorism such as Imam Samudra. One proposal is to ban Imam Samudra's book. This is impractical since people will inevitably encounter similar ideas "underground" and the sense of persecution to which they refer will be more justified. Another proposal is education by clerics about the true nature of jihad.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
What political economy?
What political economy? Meuthia Ganie-Rochman, Jakarta The fall of the Soeharto regime also saw economists lose their traditional tools to analyze the economy. Under the centralized New Order system these were the causal relations between the creation of economic policy and interest groups. The newly appointed Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Boediono, once said economic policy-makers needed to be isolated from day-to-day politics (BIES, Dec. 2005).
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/ /tni
JP/ /tni War on terror benefits only TNI, or the nation? Tiarma Siboro The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Despite the precious little progress the Indonesian Military (TNI) has achieved in the area of internal reform, it has does have something to be proud this year: the lifting of the arms embargo by the United States. The U.S. decision last November was linked to George W. Bush's global war on terror.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Relations between RI and India strengthen in 2005
Relations between RI and India strengthen in 2005 Veeramalla Anjaiah, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous state, and India -- the world's second most populous nation -- have maintained close relations since they threw off the yoke of colonialism in the mid-1940s.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
2006 - Building for the future
2006 - Building for the future David O'Brien Jakarta Next year should mark a period of consolidation for the Indonesian economy. In the wake of the tough decision to reduce fuel subsidies and subsequent price increases, domestic demand is likely to remain somewhat weaker. This is not necessarily a bad thing. The economy was exceedingly dependent upon the consumer, with estimates of this sector driving 80 percent of economic growth.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Bogor wants to eschew dirty city label
Bogor wants to eschew dirty city label Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Bogor Threatened with the title of dirtiest city in next year's Adipura city cleanliness awards, the Bogor municipality says it will mobilize 1,100 sanitation officers to clean up various spots in the city. "The final judging will be done prior to the awards ceremony on Environment Day on June 5, 2006, so we still have time to clean up," Bogor Information, Culture, and Tourism Agency head Yamin M. Saleh said on Tuesday.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia's economic challenges
Indonesia's economic challenges Stephen Schwartz Jakarta Judging by the stock and foreign exchange markets over the past few weeks, the coming of the New Year and a recent cabinet reshuffle have brought fresh hope to Indonesian market-watchers that macroeconomic stability will endure, and that economic growth will continue to rise toward its enormous potential.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
2006 as the year of economic consolidation
2006 as the year of economic consolidation David E. Sumual Jakarta Next year's economic difficulties are already becoming apparent. Early indications of the Indonesian economy losing its momentum are seen in slower-than-expected gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the last two quarters as exports eased and investor appetite diminished. The leading economic indicators, which typically move around six to 12 months ahead, also indicated the same thing.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
TV Program: Thursday, December 29, 2005
TV Program: Thursday, December 29, 2005 .TB.30" .90" TVRI 5:00 a.m. Religious Teachings 6:00 News: Berita Pagi 7:00 Children Drama 8:30 Music 9:30 Profile of Farmers 10:00 Talk Show: Wira Usaha 11:00 News: Berita Nusantara 12:00 Talk Show: Gado-gado Plus 1:00 p.m.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
SPOTLIGHT -- TNT SPECIAL SERVICES
SPOTLIGHT -- TNT SPECIAL SERVICES For Spotlight: Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2005 TNT SPECIAL SERVICES: TNT Express launches "Special Services" in Indonesia to provide services that are specifically tailored to satisfy our customers' needs.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
No great expectations in sports for 2006
No great expectations in sports for 2006 Bruce Emond Jakarta The sports year is scheduled to get off to a blazing start in January when the A1 motor racing competition stops by Sentul, Bogor. Hopefully, it will go off with a roar and not a sputter: There have been questions about the preparedness of the circuit to host the championships -- a rival to F1 featuring 24 teams representing different nations -- on Jan. 15.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Green Jakarta not a utopia
Green Jakarta not a utopia Nirwono Joga Jakarta Jakarta is heading toward ecological suicide. Soil subsidence has reached a depth of 40 centimeters in North, West and Central Jakarta. Seawater intrusion has led to the structural corrosion of buildings and flyovers while the contamination of groundwater has encroached on some 14 kilometers of land around the National Monument (Monas) Square, or a third of the territory of the capital city of Jakarta.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Soldier gets 6 years for killing civilian
Soldier gets 6 years for killing civilian Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura The Jayapura Military Court on Tuesday sentenced a soldier to six years in jail for killing a civilian in Papua. The soldier was also dishonorably discharged from the Army. Presiding judge Maj. Sutrisno said Pvt. Zulkarnaen Lubis, a 31-year-old member of the 643rd Infantry Battalion, was guilty of shooting and killing a sawmill employee, Liborius Oka, 33, during a fight on Dec.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Govt must think twice in plantation plan
Govt must think twice in plantation plan Anissa S. Febrina, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Transparency and public consultation on the details of the project are needed before the government carries out any plan to create a vast oil palm plantation along the Indonesian-Malaysian border in Borneo, an NGO says. Most development comes at a cost to the environment, but those costs could be minimized by being prudent and transparent.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Govt pushes to focus on real sector
Govt pushes to focus on real sector Anissa S. Febrina, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Aside from addressing the chronic problems of the high-cost economy, the government needs to balance its focus on macroeconomy with efforts to prioritize the real sector next year if it wants to reduce unemployment, a powerful business group says. Speaking at the group's evaluation of the country's 2005 economy on Tuesday, Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) chairman M. S.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Sixty years after independence, Indonesia is still struggling to
Sixty years after independence, Indonesia is still struggling to provide primary and secondary educations for its school-age children, lagging far behind other neighboring countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore. According to Ministry of Education figures from 2004, the number of elementary school dropouts reached 650,000, and more than 500,000 others did not continue on to secondary education.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Governing through governance: SBY delivering his promises.
Governing through governance: SBY delivering his promises. HS Dillon Jakarta The business sector has repeatedly reminded the President that corruption in the government is inhibiting investment, while civil society has been pressuring him to go after the wrongdoers wholeheartedly. In times such as these, we find him calling for a culture of excellence. How can one reconcile these calls? Lest one be accused of drawing too hasty a conclusion, let us try to look at the facts.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/9/SASKIA
JP/9/SASKIA Sunaryo Sakia struggles to preserve Surabaya-style 'ludruk' Indra Harsaputra The Jakarta Post/Surabaya Sunaryo Sakia, 49, the leader of Irama Budaya Surabaya -- a ludruk art group, an indigenous East Java folk drama featuring an all-male cast -- was hanging his head as the day-long heavy rain poured down in Surabaya, as it meant that many of his fans would be unable to come to the troupe's performance that night. "Many of my fans will certainly be unable to make it.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Nias reconstruction work criticized
Nias reconstruction work criticized Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan The Nias regency administration lashed out at the Aceh-Nias Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Agency on Tuesday for the lack of progress in rebuilding the earthquake and tsunami-ravaged island. The administration said only 30 out of the 8,000 new houses planned for tsunami and quake survivors on the island had been completed.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/ /NAJIB
JP/ /NAJIB Indonesia Outlook 2006 (Religion) Competition between Liberal and Conservative Group to Change the Very Face of Islam in Indonesia Ahmad Najib Burhani Jakarta The year 2005 saw numerous disputes between conservative Muslims and liberal Muslims to change the face of Islam in Indonesia. A number of incidents that occurred this year were a manifestation of these disputes.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
ASEAN and Myanmar
ASEAN and Myanmar What has compelled this uncharacteristic bluntness (from ASEAN) is that Myanmar's domestic arrangements may impinge on the effectiveness of the (ASEAN) group. In particular, an ambitious plan to create a single market could be hampered by Myanmar's internal politics. There is concern that its rule of generals will harm ASEAN's credibility and present an unnecessary obstacle in trade and other negotiations with countries and blocs outside the region.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
'Hopefully religious harmony will return'
'Hopefully religious harmony will return' With the forced closure this year of some places of worship in the country causing public concern, the provision of extra security at churches at Christmas time by Muslim organizations has raised hopes of religious tolerance. The Jakarta Post asked some people in the capital for their views on the issue. Amanda, 26, is an employee of an oil company in Central Jakarta.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Environmental Outlook 2006
Environmental Outlook 2006 The problems of environment in the years to come E.G. Togu Manurung Bogor Indonesia is blessed with some of the most extensive and biologically diverse tropical forests in the world. But the tragedy is that Indonesia has one of the highest rates of tropical forest loss in the world. Minister of Forestry M.S. Kaban, in his many speeches at various events, repeatedly warns that Indonesia's forests are under serious threat.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Govt backs alternative energy use
Govt backs alternative energy use Tb. Arie Rukmantara, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta In response to an energy crisis caused by soaring global oil prices, the government is rushing to issue three regulations to promote the development of alternative forms of energy.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
1. CHINA: 1 X 32
1. CHINA: 1 X 32 China economic growth comes at a price 2. TNI: 3 X 15 President approves redeployment of troops to Aceh 3. TRIAL: 1 X 36 Pinochet loses appeal in rights charges 4. PACKER: 1 X 32 World Series Cricket pioneer dies
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Islam radicalism and national security
Islam radicalism and national security Sutanto Jakarta Although radicalism is alien to the character of various religions in Indonesia, practices of radicalism are not alien in Indonesia's history. In terms of national security strategies, there were occasions in which the country's national security was declared to be under the threats stemming from the radicalism of right-wing and left-wing extremists.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Children after the tsunami
Children after the tsunami Rina Jimenez-David, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Asia News Network/Manila For years and maybe decades to come, Dec. 26 will always be remembered the world over for the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami that killed more than 200,000 people in an arc of destruction that stretched from Indonesia to Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, the Maldives and some coastal areas of Africa.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Stock prices at the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Dec. 27, 2005:
Stock prices at the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Dec. 27, 2005: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shares Close Change Trading Volume ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Waters 1,670 -10 12,500 Adhi Karya 740 30 17,562,000 Adira Dinamika 1,700 0 0 AGIS Tbk 90 0 0 Akbar Indo Makmur 185 -5 500 AKR Corporindo Tbk 1,510 40 1,157,500 Alakasa Industrindo 220 0 0 Alfa Retailindo...
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Officials warn of chemicals in local food
Officials warn of chemicals in local food Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Beware of what you eat, for in that appetizing bowl of chicken noodles there may lurk chemical substances fit only for fertilizer, furniture or corpses. Recent investigations by the Jakarta Food and Drug Office (BB- POM) found more than 60 percent of salted fish, fresh noodles and tofu sold in Greater Jakarta and Banten contained high levels of formaldehyde.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
President approves redeployment of troops to Aceh
President approves redeployment of troops to Aceh A'an Suryana and Nani Afrida, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh Ignoring mounting criticism, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has approved a plan for the Indonesian Military to deploy troops to help speed up post-tsunami recovery programs in Aceh. However the President stressed that the redeployment must involve less than 1,000 soldiers in order to maintain the trust between the government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM).
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
A better economic outlook possible in the year ahead
A better economic outlook possible in the year ahead Umar Juoro Jakarta Eventually, the government decided to put a brake on fuel subsidy spending by raising fuel prices on average by 126 percent on Oct. 1. As a consequence, inflation in that month rose to 8.7 percent, much higher than anybody expected. By the end of 2005, inflation is expected to be around 18 percent as firms make price adjustments in line with higher prices for energy, transportation, credit, wages and intermediate goods.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Prospects for 2006
Prospects for 2006 Jusuf Wanandi Jakarta I was not a supporter of Susilo Bamang Yudhoyono (SBY) during the presidential election campaign, because I thought that he would not be a decisive leader. However, now I have to admit, that while not a perfect and decisive leader, he has shown more willingness to bite the bullet on many crucial issues, albeit after a lot of pressure, advise and deliberation.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Bank Indonesia -- Another regulatory failure
Bank Indonesia -- Another regulatory failure John Le Jakarta It has been five months since Bank Indonesia introduced regulation 7/14/PBI/2005, entitled, "Restrictions on Rupiah Transactions and Foreign Currency Lending by Banks", which aimed at restoring integrity and stability to the rupiah. Contrary to Bank Indonesia's intention, however, it has also been five months of rough riding for the rupiah in the foreign exchange market.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia in 2006: The foreign policy challenge.
Indonesia in 2006: The foreign policy challenge. Michael Vatikiotis Singapore The past year has seen Indonesia weather many storms. There cannot be many countries in the world forced to deal with man- made and natural disasters simultaneously. For Indonesia's newly elected government there was the tsunami and a succession of terrorist acts to recover from.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/xx/YHELLY
JP/xx/YHELLY please check the bold is right, thnks RI 2005 performing arts scene Helly Minarti Contributor/Jakarta Another year has passed for Indonesia's performing arts, but with a staggering rise in poverty and corruption, plus the oil crisis overshadowing the country throughout the year, the government continues to keep the arts at arm's length.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/Y/ZATNI1
JP/Y/ZATNI1 IT in 2005: From the tsunami to germ-free handsets Zatni Arbi Contributor/Jakarta We did not start 2005 on a high note. The tsunami that hit several Asian coastal areas including Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam left us in deep mourning. For many months, we were wondering what Mother Nature was telling us through this disaster.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Endy M. Bayuni
Endy M. Bayuni Jakarta This Christmas provided another fine display to the outside world of the religious tolerance that has developed among peoples of different faiths in Indonesia, the country with the world's largest Muslim population. As Christians observed Christmas inside churches, hotel ballrooms and other venues, outside, young people from Muslim organizations worked with the police to provide security.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
PBR factions agree to reunite
PBR factions agree to reunite JAKARTA: The Reform Star Party (PBR) has ended its internal rift during a meeting mediated by Aksa Mahmud, a deputy speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) who is also a Golkar Party member. Aksa was reportedly ordered by Vice President and Golkar leader Jusuf Kalla to help overcome the PBR dispute.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Attracting foreign investment requires substance in policy reform
Attracting foreign investment requires substance in policy reform Dan Kingsley Jakarta The Indonesian economy, following the adoption of a tightening monetary stance by Bank Indonesia in mid-August and strengthening inflation due to the recent fuel price increase, has shown declining economic growth in the last half of 2005.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Another BI regulation fails the market test
Another BI regulation fails the market test John Le, Jakarta It has been five months since Bank Indonesia introduced regulation 7/14/PBI/2005, entitled, "Restrictions on Rupiah Transactions and Foreign Currency Lending by Banks", which aimed at restoring integrity and stability to the rupiah. Contrary to Bank Indonesia's intention, however, it has also been five months of rough riding for the rupiah in the foreign exchange market.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Govt experts more from summit II
Govt experts more from summit II Mustaqim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After a fairly dismal result from the last Infrastructure Summit 11 months ago, the government is upbeat about its second edition of the summit -- scheduled for February -- due to the more comprehensive nature of the projects on offer. "Unlike the past summit, which was all about getting investors to run the projects, the Infrastructure Summit 2006 will mostly focus on all of infrastructure sector players.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
BI sees year-on-year inflation at 18%
BI sees year-on-year inflation at 18% The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Bank Indonesia sees on-year December inflation staying at 18 percent with carry-over inflationary pressure from the recent fuel price increases and public spending during the Muslim holiday period as likely to abate within the month.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Ex-rebels disband armed wing
Ex-rebels disband armed wing A'an Suryana and Nani Afrida, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh The Free Aceh Movement (GAM) announced the dissolution of its military wing here on Tuesday in another move to achieve long- lasting peace in the tsunami-ravaged province. "On behalf of GAM combatants, I have the honor to announce that TNA (Aceh National Military) is now demobilized or disbanded," TNA chief Muzakkir Manaf said in a statement read out by GAM spokesman Sofyan Dawood in a news conference.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Illegal logging: Where do we go from here?
Illegal logging: Where do we go from here? Illegal logging sees no slowing down Stevie Emilia The Jakarta Post/Jakarta When the world's biggest timber smuggling operation from Papua to China was exposed this year, it marked a turning point in the fight against illegal logging in the country.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
PSMS Medan letting Chilean Eduardo go
PSMS Medan letting Chilean Eduardo go MEDAN: PSMS Medan will not renew the contract of Chilean Luis Eduardo for the Indonesian League soccer competition starting on Jan. 14, an official said on Tuesday. PSMS general secretary H. Randiman Tarigan told Antara news service Eduardo would be let go after three seasons with the club because his play was no longer considered of the "desired quality".
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Muslims, minorities, and the state in Indonesia
Muslims, minorities, and the state in Indonesia Muhamad Ali Manoa, Honolulu Indonesian Islam will remain moderate and tolerant by and large, but problems and challenges will continue to exist. The future of Indonesia depends on the ways in which the government and various Muslim groups actually act in public life.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Rupiah Rates Dec. 27
Rupiah Rates Dec. 27 Banknote Rates Selling Buying Australian dollar 1 7,527.96 6,795.13 Brunei dollar 1 6,195.62 5,593.88 Canadian dollar 1 8,844.44 7,984.42 Swiss franc 1 7,856.49 7,093.95 Danish krone 1 1,638.91 1,479.48 Euro 1 12,226.87 11,038.00 Poundsterling 1 17,876.71 16,139.71 Hong Kong dollar 1 1,331.67 1,202.64 Japanese yen 100 8,820.26 7,961.92 Malaysian ringgit 1 -- -- Norwegian krone 1 1,522.34 1,374.29 New Zealand dollar 1 6,966.28 6,282.25 PNG kina 1 3,505.34 2,970.01 Philippine...
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Two relatives killed in fire
Two relatives killed in fire JAKARTA: Two relatives of the owner of an auto repair shop on Jl. Pahlawan Revolusi, Pondok Bambu, East Jakarta, died in a fire at the three-story shop early on Tuesday. According to firefighters, who were able to extinguish the fire about three hours after it started at 3 a.m., the two were found on the ground floor by the door.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Govt to award Pertamina one-year PSO deal
Govt to award Pertamina one-year PSO deal Leony Aurora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Citing a lack of readiness on the part of new players in the fuel retail business, the government says it will give state oil and gas company PT Pertamina a contract to distribute subsidized fuel across the archipelago for another year. Pertamina will be the sole distributor for premium gasoline, kerosene and diesel fuel for households, transportation and small industries for one year, starting Jan.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
A conversation took place in a modest house, one with unplastered
A conversation took place in a modest house, one with unplastered walls and the exposed roof covered in cobwebs -- in a traditional fisherfolk's village in Labuan, Banten, some five hours drive from Jakarta. The house belongs to a neighborhood unit (RT) chief and he was talking with his son, who had returned from working in Malaysia.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Year-end Special Edition
Year-end Special Edition The year 2005 began with a massive relief operation in the countries around the Indian Ocean, which was devastated by a deadly tsunami that killed over 220,000 people and made hundreds of thousands homeless. Indonesia was the worst hit by the tsunami. Despite the tragedy, Indonesia emerged as a "responsible, dependable and resourceful actor in international fora." The relations with the U.S.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/yearend/PAPUA
JP/yearend/PAPUA Special autonomy implementation in Papua treading water A'an Suryana The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Four years after special autonomy legislation came into effect in Papua, it has been called a failure for not living up to the expectations of the people. Special autonomy has not improved the lives of Papuans, many of whom live in poverty in spite of the funds channeled to regional administrations for the autonomy drive, which total between Rp 1.3 trillion and Rp 1.5 trillion a year.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Navy officer nabbed for drug dealing, illegal gun ownership
Navy officer nabbed for drug dealing, illegal gun ownership Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta City police have arrested a Navy officer on charges of drug dealing and illegal gun possession. The suspect was arrested on Tuesday in his apartment in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, along with three women, Jakarta Police spokesman Sr. Comr. I Ketut Untung Yoga Ana said. He said the arrest was made based on a tip-off from another drug suspect who claimed he was supplied by the serviceman.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Economy of Year of the Rooster heading for bleak finale
Economy of Year of the Rooster heading for bleak finale For Dec. 27 Primastuti Handayani The Jakarta Post/Jakarta For "Donny", a 32-year-old employee of a private company in Central Jakarta, the Year of the Rooster has brought no good. "This year sucks," he said.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Humankind united to help tsunami victims
Humankind united to help tsunami victims It is now one year since a massive magnitude-9.0 earthquake and deadly tidal waves devastated certain coastal regions of the northern Indian Ocean region, including Aceh province and Nias island in Indonesia, killing more than 220,000 people in a dozen countries. Unfortunately, Aceh was the worst hit area with at least 130,000 people dead and 40,000 others listed as missing.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Trends in internal security problems in 2006
Trends in internal security problems in 2006 Ikrar Nusa Bhakti Jakarta The year 2005 will end in just a few days. During the year, Indonesia faced quite a number of internal security problems, such as the prolonged communal conflicts in Poso and Palu in Central Sulawesi, the terrorist attacks in Jimbaran and Kuta in Bali in October 2005, conflicts related to industrial relations following the fuel price increases in October 2005 in some areas in Java and so on.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Removing exit tax
Removing exit tax I have a pensioner's visa and am actually a resident of Jimbaran, Bali. I am very keen to let President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono know that, as a retiree living here, I must pay departure tax (fiscal) every time we leave your country for family or medical reasons. Since we are not working here, are we not excluded from the obligation of paying fiscal? ALBERTO VAZQUEZ YARZA Jimbaran, Bali
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
On Kuta Beach
On Kuta Beach I refer to the letter by Horst Geerken in The Jakarta Post, Dec. 20, titled Filth and sloth on Kuta Beach. He said that many tourists in Kuta are complaining about the "unbearable" situation. Have the Balinese people not suffered enough! I am here again for Christmas and find the beaches quite beautiful. How dare you say you see "the local people sitting around talking and talking and not cleaning the beach".
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Roots of conflict and peace agendas in Papua
Roots of conflict and peace agendas in Papua Muridan S. Widjojo Jakarta The meeting between Vice President Jusuf Kalla, flanked by Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Widodo AS, Minister of Home Affairs Mohammad Ma'ruf and Indonesian Military (TNI) chief Gen. Endriartono Sutarto, and the official leaders of the province of Papua on Nov. 24, followed by the talks with the leaders of West Irian Jaya province the next day, resulted in a positive consensus.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Where to put your money in 2006
Where to put your money in 2006 Frank van Lerven Jakarta It is never easy and straightforward to answer the question "where to put your money?". Certainly right now, with the year 2005 ending and 2006 around the corner, it is a very interesting question as regards the Indonesian financial markets! Will the bull run that the Jakarta Stock Exchange (JSX) has enjoyed for an unprecedented 3-1/2 year period come to a halt?
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia, Vietnam improve overall relationship in 2005
Indonesia, Vietnam improve overall relationship in 2005 Veeramalla Anjaiah, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The year 2005 witnessed immense activity in the relations between two Southeast Asian giants -- Indonesia and Vietnam. In May, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono visited Hanoi and his Vietnamese counterpart, Tran Duc Luaong, paid back the favor in April to enhance cooperation between the two countries.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Waiting for justice for Munir's murderers
Waiting for justice for Munir's murderers Patrick Guntensperger, Jakarta It is perhaps appropriate that the verdict in the Munir murder case comes just as the year 2005 draws to a close. The fact that Garuda pilot Pollycarpus Budihari Priyanto' sentence of 14 years for the cold blooded and cowardly murder by poison of a highly respected human rights activist comes at this time gives us pause to reflect on how our expectations have changed over the last year.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Islamic radical movements in Indonesia
Islamic radical movements in Indonesia Azyumardi Azra Jakarta The root causes of radicalism among Muslims in modern times are very complex. This complexity has become even greater lately because of the numerous driving factors that are working to influence the socio-historical course of Muslim societies as a whole. Looking at the whole history of radicalism among Muslims, I would argue that radicalism among Muslims is more political than religious.
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Weaker trade prospects for 2006: Is oil to be blamed?
Weaker trade prospects for 2006: Is oil to be blamed? Puspa Delima Amri Jakarta Reading the performance of the Indonesian economy this year can be compared to a parent's reaction when the children bring home a fantastic mid-year report card: A mixture of pride, optimism and also anxiety. Will the brilliant performance be sustainable throughout the year?
Wed, 28 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/YKLASIK
JP/YKLASIK Classical music scene remains a vibrant niche One among many recommendations issued during the annual meeting of the Youth Music Orchestra (JMI), an international organization that promotes classical music to young people, was that JMI affiliates in member countries should go online to promote as many classical works as possible.