Archive: 29 December 2005
108 articles found
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
More graft uncocovered in RI missions in Malaysia
More graft uncocovered in RI missions in Malaysia The Indonesian foreign ministry has discovered more cases of corruption in its consulates general in four cities in Malaysia -- Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Tawau, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hassan Wirayuda has said. Hassan said that all the cases involved officials from the Directorate of Immigration collecting illegal fees from Indonesian citizen seeking immigration services.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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?
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Collapsed mosque owner named suspect
Collapsed mosque owner named suspect JAKARTA: The owner of a mosque in Koja, North Jakarta, was declared a suspect on Tuesday evening, after police found sufficient evidence that he had caused the deaths of workers by allowing the construction of the mosque to continue. North Jakarta Police chief Sr. Comr.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Significance of being a moderate and progressive Muslim
Significance of being a moderate and progressive Muslim Mohamad Abdun Nasir Mataram Religious radicalism and extremism have proven to be a danger to social stability and order. While liberalism and secularism often trigger fear among Muslims that they are being secularized and cut off from Islamic doctrines that govern the daily lives of Muslims.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Protest marks Poso conflict anniversary
Protest marks Poso conflict anniversary Ruslan Sangadji, The Jakarta Post, Palu Some 250 residents observed the 7th anniversary of the Poso conflict on Wednesday by staging a protest outside the Central Sulawesi Police Headquarters. The three-hour protest, initiated by the Poso Center organization, was aimed at reminding people of the conflict, which started in December 1998 but escalated in 2000, killing over 2,000 people and leaving 17,000 families homeless.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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?
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Heretic cult enrages locals
Heretic cult enrages locals JAKARTA: Dozens of followers of Lia Eden, previously known as Lia Aminuddin, were evacuated by police on Wednesday from their headquarters on Jl. Mahoni, Central Jakarta, to a safe place after thousands of people surrounded the place. Jakarta Police spokesman Sr. Comr. I Ketut Untung Yoga Ana said that the followers were evacuated to prevent them from being attacked by the people, who claimed that Lia and her people were followers of heretic teachings.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/18/local
JP/18/local Local designs struggle against massive attack Jakarta's socialites still prefer Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga to creations by local fashion designers. Jakarta Post contributor Syahmedi Dean looks at the hits and misses of 2005 and finds that a bit of competition can be a good thing. In a matter of days, we will say goodbye to 2005 and get ready for the New Year -- with all its new collections, new styles and new ideas.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
;JP;DAN;
;JP;DAN; ANPAf..r.. Rupiah-conversion-rates Rupiah Rates Dec. 28 JP/13/Conver Rupiah Rates Dec. 28 Bank notes rates TT rates Selling Buying Selling Buying Rp Rp Rp Rp Australian dollar 1 7,533.37 6,801.39 7,205.36 7,129.18 Brunei dollar 1 6,216.17 5,612.67 5,945.51 5,883.16 Canadian dollar 1 8,834.12 7,977.83 8,449.47 8,362.32 Swiss franc 1 7,872.02 7,110.40 7,529.26 7,453.08 Danish krone 1 1,644.52 1,484.64 1,572.91 1,556.19 Euro 1 12,266.98 11,078.94 11,732.86 11,612.88 Poundsterling 1 17,907.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Combating corruption
Combating corruption Indonesia, based on international surveys, is currently one of the most corrupt countries in the world. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has promised to improve this bad image. Many believe that it would be appropriate to consider the following two ideas: First, why don't we prefer saving government assets to resolving these matters in court? If we can do this, we will add cash inflow for our country.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
[b]
Books on radical Islam reflect diversity Kurniawan Hari The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The size of the book store at the Paramadina Foundation office in Pondok Indah Plaza III, South Jakarta, is deceptive. The four-by-four square meter store looks too small to accommodate the diverse ideas of the many Muslim intellectuals shelved there, including the late Nurcholish Madjid -- the co-founder of the foundation. The latest book launched by the foundation on Dec.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
IT in 2005: From tsunami to germ-free phones
IT in 2005: From tsunami to germ-free phones 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Michael Richardson
Michael Richardson Singapore As China's energy demand has climbed in recent years to fuel its economic growth, Australia and Indonesia have emerged as important sellers of natural gas to the world's most populous nation. Lying relatively close to China, they enable it to reduce dependence on longer haul energy supplies from politically volatile areas in the Middle East and Africa.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Subsidy increase or power rate increase, PLN tells govt
Subsidy increase or power rate increase, PLN tells govt Leony Aurora , The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government will have to increase the subsidy for state power firm PT PLN next year or raise power rates, a company official says.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Roti fin fishers caught in legal loop in Australia
Roti fin fishers caught in legal loop in Australia The Australian government has been trying to persuade the Indonesian government to take action against shark-fin fishers poaching in northern Australian waters. This has become a big issue in Australia with claims that waves of boats are illegally plundering the seas. The Jakarta Post's contributor Duncan Graham reports: They shuffle into the Perth Magistrate's Court, stand calmly to hear the charges read, then sit to hear the evidence.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Ambitious clean air bylaw lacks support provisions
Ambitious clean air bylaw lacks support provisions Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The New Year's resolution by the Jakarta administration is to make the city breathable, but that could be too ambitious even with the issuance of Bylaw No. 2/2005 on air pollution control, which will go into effect in February. Except for Gubernatorial Regulation No.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Environment office seeks more power
Environment office seeks more power Tb. Arie Rukmantara, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government plans to revise the Environment Law to give the authorities more power to go after polluters, an official said on Wednesday. The deputy for environmental compliance at the Office of the State Minister for the Environment, Hoetomo, discussed the plan to revise Law No. 23/1997 on the environment after officiating a public discussion on the issue.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/18/top
JP/18/top Indonesia's top five fashion designers An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Syahmedi Dean Contributor/Jakarta Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Terrorists may stike back for Azahari: BIN
Terrorists may stike back for Azahari: BIN Agence France-Presse, Jakarta The killing of Malaysian bombmaker Azahari bin Husin by Indonesian police could spark revenge attacks and kidnappings for ransom, National Intelligence Agency (BIN) director Syamsir Siregar warned on Wednesday. Syamsir said that before his death, Azahari and his compatriot Noordin Mohammad Top -- who is still at large -- had recruited an unknown number of militants who had then received training in terrorist techniques.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
1. ROTI: 1 X 55
1. ROTI: 1 X 55 Roti fin fishers caught in legal loop in Australia 2. CABINET: 2 X 18 Loans, projects to spur growth 3. AD: 2 X 24 Ad spending grows slower as strategy shifts 4. RICE: 2 X 9 Rice to visit Indonesia 5. SAILING: 1 X 34 'Wild Oats' breaks Sydney-Hobart record
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Pastika sworn in as new BNN chief
Pastika sworn in as new BNN chief JAKARTA: Insp. Gen. I Made Mangku Pastika, who was sworn in on Wednesday as the new chief of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), said his two main priorities would be arresting drug dealers and providing rehabilitation for users. Pastika, the former chief of the Bali Police who was lauded for his investigation into the 2002 bombings on the resort island, replaces Comr. Gen. Makbul Padmanegara as head of the BNN.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Performing arts intentive, but still lack adequate support
Performing arts intentive, but still lack adequate support 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Gas-guzzlers and variable engine displacement
Gas-guzzlers and variable engine displacement Zatni Arbi, Contributor, Jakarta This year we saw a new era emerge in the automotive industry. We began the year with engines getting larger and larger. People flocked to dealers to check out the latest SUVs. Suddenly, we had a worldwide oil crisis and the price of gasoline skyrocketed. Right away, the sales of gas-guzzling cars, trucks and SUVs plummeted, even in the U.S.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/YZATNI2/
JP/YZATNI2/ Gas-guzzlers and variable engine displacement Zatni Arbi Contributor/Jakarta This year we saw a new era emerge in the automotive industry. We began the year with engines getting larger and larger. People flocked to dealers to check out the latest SUVs. Suddenly, we had a worldwide oil crisis and the price of gasoline skyrocketed. Right away, the sales of gas-guzzling cars, trucks and SUVs plummeted, even in the U.S.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Vibrant visual arts scene encapsulates the soul
Vibrant visual arts scene encapsulates the soul Carla Bianpoen, Contributor, Jakarta For the art world 2005 was a year of milestones, one of which no doubt was the 20th anniversary of Edwin Gallery which was celebrated with a major extension of the premises and a memorable exhibition of selected works by artists who had been part of the gallery's history.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Loans, projects to spur growth
Loans, projects to spur growth Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta To stimulate higher economic growth through the utilization of the state budget, the government is to speed up the disbursement of massive loan commitments from overseas creditors within the first semester of next year.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Mainstream languishes, indie gets stronger
Mainstream languishes, indie gets stronger M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta At the outset, 2005 showed little promise for music fans who were hoping for new sounds and exciting gigs. They year started with a three-date benefit concert from Scandinavian soft-rock has-beens Michael Learns to Rock -- a fitting omen for worse things to come, namely the release of a self-titled album by the Surabaya, East Java-based pop-rock band, Padi.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Spitting, tops Asian peeves
Spitting, tops Asian peeves Agence France-Presse, Hong Kong Spitting in public, cutting into a queue and bad driving top the list of irritations for most Asians, according to a survey released by Reader's Digest on Wednesday. Poor service in shops and restaurants also got on the nerves of 82 percent of 3,600 people surveyed around Asia, said the study due to be published in next month's edition of the magazine.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
SBY urged to push police to continue Munir murder probe
SBY urged to push police to continue Munir murder probe Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A group of human rights activists has asked President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to order the police to continue the investigation into the murder of noted human rights defender Munir in a bid to reveal the masterminds.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Churches target of bomb threat
Churches target of bomb threat KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: A short message service (SMS) sent to Suara Timor radio station in Kupang on Wednesday morning threatened to bomb 31 churches in the city on New Year's Eve. The message was sent by somebody claiming to be a leader of the Jamaah Islamiyah regional terrorist group. An official at the station, Silvester Sega, immediately reported the threat to the police.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Theo questioned about graft
Theo questioned about graft The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former chief of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Theo F. Toemion underwent lengthy questioning at the office of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on Wednesday over alleged corruption in the implementation of an investment promotion program in 2003. KPK investigators also searched Theo's house at Jl. Adhyaksa VI No. 8, Lebak Bulus, South Jakarta, for material evidence.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Indonesia's top five fashion designers
Indonesia's top five fashion designers Syahmedi Dean, Contributor, Jakarta An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Where to go in Jakarta: Friday, December 30, 2005
Where to go in Jakarta: Friday, December 30, 2005 Exhibitions * Painting and lithograph by Ken Pattern at Galeri Hadiprana Jl Kemang Raya # 30 South Jakarta (Tel 7194715), Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., until Dec. 31 * Italian Fashion Exhibition by Studio Galgano, Fifty Years of Italian Fashion, at Gedung Arsip Nasional (the National Archive Building), Jl. Gajah Mada 111, Central Jakarta (Tel. 6347744) until Jan.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Stock index rises as BRI, BNI climb
Stock index rises as BRI, BNI climb Naila Firdausi and Arijit Ghosh, Bloomberg/Jakarta Indonesia's stock index rose, reversing earlier declines. PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia led gains by lenders after the yield at the central bank bill sales remained unchanged, easing concern interest rates may increase. The Jakarta Composite Index added 2.43, or 0.2 percent, to 1,164.14 at the 4 p.m. close, after earlier declining as much as 0.3 percent. About three shares rose for every two that fell.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
SEAG scandal grows with more arrests
SEAG scandal grows with more arrests HANOI: Vietnamese police have filed criminal charges against four more soccer players, taking to six the number charged with fixing a match against Myanmar at the recent Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, state media reported. Huynh Quoc Anh and midfielder Le Bat Hieu were detained on Wednesday while the other two players, Le Van Truong and Tran Hai Lam, were not taken into custody, said the online VnExpress newspaper (www.vnexpress.net).
Thu, 29 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?
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
SBY approves more detention requests
SBY approves more detention requests JAKARTA: President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono approved on Wednesday new requests from prosecutors to question and detain two regents and one mayor implicated in graft cases. Prosecutors want to question the regents of Lamandau in Central Kalimantan and Bone Bolanga in Gorontalo, and the mayor of Prabumulih, South Sumatra. Presidential spokesman Andi Mallarangeng said all three had been named suspects in graft cases.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/20/DALANG
JP/20/DALANG Highlighting women in 'wayang' Indra Harsaputra The Jakarta Post/Surabaya The woman puppeteer from Madiun remained silent for a moment before starting to work the wayang shadow puppets at this year's National Wayang Festival at the Cak Durasim Building, East Java Cultural Center, Surabaya, on Dec. 20. The audience applauded as Nyi Sumiati raised the gunungan (triangular symbol of life) as a sign that the show was about to commence.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Local designs struggle against massive attack
Local designs struggle against massive attack Jakarta's socialites still prefer Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga to creations by local fashion designers. Jakarta Post contributor Syahmedi Dean looks at the hits and misses of 2005 and finds that a bit of competition can be a good thing. In a matter of days, we will say goodbye to 2005 and get ready for the New Year -- with all its new collections, new styles and new ideas.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Govt to open tender for Kalimantan-Java gas pipeline
Govt to open tender for Kalimantan-Java gas pipeline Leony Aurora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government will announce the opening of the much-debated tender for the special rights to build and operate a gas pipeline linking Kalimantan and Java on Thursday, signaling the priority to meet domestic demand over the more lucrative exports.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Many local films, but has quality improved?
Many local films, 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Ad spending grows slower as strategy shifts
Ad spending grows slower as strategy shifts Anissa S. Febrina, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Watch out for advertisement invasions! "There is not a single aspect of our lives that has not been bombarded with advertisements," 25-year-old interior designer Dita Eka said.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Daft law on marriage unfair to foreigners
Daft law on marriage unfair to foreigners Dian Sasmita Bogor Four years ago, Gadjah Mada University economist Revrisond Baswier surprised the public with a proposal that the Ministry of Finance slap a heavy tax on marriages involving celebrities in Indonesia in order to discourage them from seeking divorce too easily.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Literature development highlights illiteracy
Literature development highlights illiteracy Riris K. Toha-Sarumpaet, Contributor, Jakarta At the turn of the year, amidst the blow dealt by expectations in life and the reality of literary developments in Indonesia, what absolutely needs to be emphasized the most? We agree that literature is not created in a vacuum and that literature marks and, in its unique capacity, carries life itself.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
A year after the tsunami
A year after the tsunami A year has passed since the great earthquake generated a tsunami off the Indonesian island of Sumatra. The reconstruction of Aceh in northern Sumatra faces an uphill battle because the area was close to the epicenter and was destroyed by an incomparably more violent force. The number of people killed or missing in Aceh was about 170,000, accounting for about 80 percent of the total victims, and the affected areas extended 800 kilometers on the coast.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Leaders must be responsive, but not thin-skinned
Leaders must be responsive, but not thin-skinned Ardimas Sasdi Jakarta Referring to the diatribes launched by some of the nation's most senior leaders in response to criticism, The Jakarta Post rightly observed recently that it is not easy being a democrat. Leaders in a democracy, where the supreme power lies with the people, must be responsive and learn to accept sometimes harsh criticism by the people. Also, there is no place in a democracy for absolutism, which is more suited to an autocracy.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Recreating culture: A spectrum of spectacles
Recreating culture: A spectrum of spectacles Throughout the year, Indonesia's diversity -- whether seen in its ethnic cultures or in its cultural forms -- has found the spotlight on a variety of stages. At the same time, the country's audiences have been treated to performers and groups from abroad, resulting in a true spirit of cultural exchange.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Jakarta's environment: Lessons from abroad
Jakarta's environment: Lessons from abroad Edward McMillan Jakarta Can you imagine paying a "congestion charge" every time you drive your car into the city centre? How about growing your own vegetables? Or using solar energy to heat your tap-water? How does paying for several dozen trees to be planted each year sound to you?
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Challenges in the AG's anticorruption strategy
Challenges in the AG's anticorruption strategy Mas Achmad Santosa and Nenad Bago, Jakarta The beginning of this month was marked by two remarkable events reflecting the Attorney General's anticorruption efforts. First, on Dec. 6, 2005, the Attorney General and the Head of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) signed a Joint Decision of mutual cooperation.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Books on radical Islam reflect diversity
Books on radical Islam reflect diversity Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The size of the book store at the Paramadina Foundation office in Pondok Indah Plaza III, South Jakarta, is deceptive. The four-by-four square meter store looks too small to accommodate the diverse ideas of the many Muslim intellectuals shelved there, including the late Nurcholish Madjid -- the co-founder of the foundation. The latest book launched by the foundation on Dec.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
City to test e-procurement system in February
City to test e-procurement system in February Damar Harsanto The Jakarta Post/Jakarta In a bid to minimize irregularities in city procurements, the Jakarta administration plans to test an online system for the procurement of goods and services in a number of city agencies starting next February.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Corruption busters
Corruption busters Corruption remains as prevalent in our society as it did two years ago. We have only seen marginal progress in the effort to convert the culture of payolas into one of responsible and accountable management. It will take many more years before any inkling of the "clean society" this country seeks starts to emerge.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
'Tolerance is closely related to education'
'Tolerance is closely related to education' Despite the forced closures of a number of churches this year by hard-line Muslim groups, religious tolerance made a come back over Christmas when Muslim organizations helped with security at churches. The Jakarta Post asked some residents their opinion on the issue. Benny, 25, works at for cellular phone service provider on Jl. Gatot Subroto in West Jakarta.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/20/image
JP/20/image Recreating culture: A spectrum of spectacles Throughout the year, Indonesia's diversity -- whether seen in its ethnic cultures or in its cultural forms -- has found the spotlight on a variety of stages. At the same time, the country's audiences have been treated to performers and groups from abroad, resulting in a true spirit of cultural exchange.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
New Year in Bali to have Russian flavor
New Year in Bali to have Russian flavor Rita A. Widiadana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar New Year's Eve should be a festive event in Bali, with foreign visitors, Russians in particular, set to celebrate the holiday at luxury hotels and villas at the island's top destinations of Kuta, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua and Sanur. Amadeo Zarzoza, general manager of the Bali Intercontinental Resort in Jimbaran, said the resort has had a 100 percent occupancy rate since Dec.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Rice to visit Indonesia
Rice to visit Indonesia The Jakarta Post, Jakarta U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will visit Jakarta in the second week of January, an Indonesian government official confirmed on Wednesday. Rice's itinerary in Indonesia, however, has yet to be confirmed, said the official, who refused to be named because he was not authorized to announce the visit. Rice's visit will likely give further momentum to U.S.- Indonesia relations.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Bombings have devastated tourism in Bali
Bombings have devastated tourism in Bali Rita A. Widiadana, The Jakarta Post, Kuta Only a few days before the deadly bombing of Oct. 1, 2005, the tourism industry in Bali and other places in Indonesia was starting to enjoy robust business after three years of being in the doldrums. In Bali, for example, many hotels were experiencing occupancy rates of 90 percent to 100 percent. Travel agencies, airlines, restaurants and cafes had high expectations.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Acehnese reprise their lives in new documentary
Acehnese reprise their lives in new documentary JP/18/ACEH Acehnese reprise their lives in new documentary The Jakarta Post Jakarta The suffering inflicted by the tsunami in Aceh could provide enough material for thousands of films based on the survivors efforts to come to terms with the near-apocalyptic disaster. Christine Hakim Film is one of film studios that quickly seized the opportunity to shoot a film based on the disaster.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
The importance of ratifying the anticorruption convention
The importance of ratifying the anticorruption convention Adnan Topan Husodo, Jakarta Some time ago, on Dec. 9, 2005, the world commemorated Anticorruption Day. That date was chosen because on Dec. 9, 2003, in Merida, Mexico, the United Nations inaugurated the Convention against Corruption. As many as 137 nations signed the convention, including Indonesia. The convention marks an important moment in the acknowledgement of corruption as a transnational crime.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
A baby for the whole clan
A baby for the whole clan I Wayan Juniartha, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali In Bali, the birth of a baby brings joy not only to the parents but also the entire clan. This affectionate display of communal happiness can be seen in the traditional Balinese Hindu ritual Ngotonin. From a religious perspective, the ritual, which takes place 210 days after the birth of the baby, aims at giving the baby spiritual protection and the blessing of ancestral spirits and benign deities.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Fortune sees revenue up 30% in 2006
Fortune sees revenue up 30% in 2006 The Jakarta Post, Jakarta PT Fortune Indonesia, a publicly listed communication services provider, expects revenue growth of up to 30 percent next year -- higher than this year's 7 percent growth -- betting in particular on its public relations division. "Below the line service, such as public and media relations, has become a crucial tool for the industry nowadays.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Beyond well enough
Beyond well enough Arya B. Gaduh Jakarta The economy did rather well in 2005. Estimates by the Asian Development Bank put its growth above that of the regional (Southeast Asian) average and its ASEAN-5 neighbors. Exports became one of the main sources of growth, contributing to around 80 percent of total growth in the first two quarters of 2005.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Corrupt immigration
Corrupt immigration As foreigners, we are required to drop by to the immigration office with great frequency. It's nice that all the fees are displayed openly on the wall, but the nightmare awaits just around the corner. We have never once managed to get our papers processed without some kind of extra charge, and these charges are rising quicker than the inflation rate. Every extension for a family of four costs at least Rp 3 million, and applying for an exit permit costs another Rp 1 million.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Stock prices at the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Dec. 28, 2005:
Stock prices at the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Dec. 28, 2005: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shares Close Change Trading Volume ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Waters 1,670 0 1,000 Adhi Karya 740 0 7,605,500 Adira Dinamika 1,670 -30 500 AGIS Tbk 85 -5 675,000 Akbar Indo Makmur 185 0 0 AKR Corporindo Tbk 1,500 -10 1,162,500 Alakasa Industrindo 220 0 0 Alfa...
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
General confirms Freeport payments
General confirms Freeport payments Tiarma Siboro and Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former Trikora Military Commander in Papua Maj. Gen. Mahidin Simbolon has confirmed direct payments from U.S. gold miner Freeport-McMoRan to Indonesian military and police personnel guarding the firm's mine. Mahidin said on Wednesday that the money from Freeport was used to support the military's logistical and other expenses, including meals, transportation, clothing and medication.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Bigger city budget comes with conditions
Bigger city budget comes with conditions Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Amid rumors of tough discussions between the City Council and administration over a number of issues, the factions on the council unanimously approved next year's city budget on Wednesday. The budget totals Rp 17.9 trillion, representing a 26 percent increase over this year's Rp 14.2 trillion.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
Sunaryo Sakia struggles to preserve Surabaya-style 'ludruk'
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.
Thu, 29 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.
Thu, 29 Dec 2005, 00:00 WIB
JP/18/Q03
JP/18/Q03 Indonesia's top five fashion designers An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Syahmedi Dean Contributor/Jakarta Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.
Thu, 29 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.