Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 23 April 2005

107 articles found

;AFP;

;AFP; ANPAa..u.. Indonesia-Ambon-blast Blast rocks sectarian violence-hit Ambon JP/1/24 Blast rocks Ambon Police said on Friday they have arrested five people carrying bombs after a blast rocked the sectarian violence-hit eastern city of Ambon ahead of a sensitive political anniversary. The blast, at 8:10 p.m. local time, could be heard up to two kilometers around and sparked panic among residents of an area bordering Muslim and Christian communities in the city.

Thaksin meets Thai students in Jakarta

Thaksin meets Thai students in Jakarta Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra briefly met with a group of Thai Muslim students studying in Indonesia upon his arrival at the Hotel Mulia Senayan in Jakarta on Thursday night. According to Kriang Sat, 26, a student from southern Thailand, Thaksin told the students to study hard and not to worry about the situation in their southern Thai homeland, which has been rocked by conflict in recent years.

Paul Tedja, seasoned snapper of world events

Paul Tedja, seasoned snapper of world events Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post/Bandung One of Paul Tedja Surya's dreams at the age of 75 is to enter the Merdeka Building on Jl. Asia Afrika, Bandung, on April 24 and watch rows of Asian and African heads of state being photographed at a historic event -- the golden jubilee of the first Asian- African Conference (AAC 1).

Koizumi offers apology to Asia

Koizumi offers apology to Asia Muninggar Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Japan's prime minister apologized on Friday for his country's aggression during World War II, in an effort to ease tensions with China and win support for Japan's bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Exclusive zone,

Exclusive zone, territorial claims From Kompas An article in Kompas daily (March 7) written by I Basis Susilo noted that Indonesia's loss of Sipadan and Ligitan islands was due to the lack of a continuous presence, effective settlement and guarantee for nature conservation on border islands. In his book, Indonesia's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, First Adm.

Maluku schools get failing grade

Maluku schools get failing grade M. Azis Tunny, The Jakarta Post/East Seram Leaking and collapsing roofs, and holes in fragile walls -- these are common sights in many schools in the East Seram regency of Maluku province. Elementary school SDN 2 Geser in East Seram is among the schools that desperately requires the government's attention. Built in 1907, the school is no longer an appropriate place to study.

Ayu playing first singles against Groenefeld in Fed Cup tie

Ayu playing first singles against Groenefeld in Fed Cup tie Agencies, Essen, Germany/Paris Teenager Ayu Fani Damayanti of Indonesia will have the odds stacked against her when she takes on Germany's Anne-Lena Groenefeld in the opening match of their Fed Cup World Group II tie in Essen, Germany, on Saturday. According to the draw made on Friday, Wynne Prakuysya will play Julia Schruff in the second match, Antara reported. On paper, the Germans should be untroubled on the red clay at Essen.

U.S. Dollar Rates April 22

U.S. Dollar Rates April 22 Latest %Chg Yen 106.33-35 -0.56 Euro* 1.3066-67 +0.11 Sterling* 1.9108-12 -0.01 Swiss franc 1.1814-18 -0.10 Canadian dollar 1.2378-80 -0.06 Australian dollar* 0.7787-90 +0.36 Czech koruna 23.158-84 +0.13 Hungary forint 190.49-89 +0.11 Danish krone 5.7010-17 -0.08 Norwegian krone 6.2478-08 +0.05 Polish zloty 3.2025-45 -0.24 Russian ruble 27.711-21 +0.03 Swedish krona 7.0118-48 -0.29 Hong Kong dollar 7.7965-70 -0.03 Malaysian ringgit 3.7995-05 0.00 Indian rupee 43.74-75...

Sutiyoso urges probe on KPUD

Sutiyoso urges probe on KPUD JAKARTA: Governor Sutiyoso asked for an investigation into alleged markups in the procurement of election materials by the Jakarta General Elections Commission (KPUD) in three elections in 2004. "The investigation must look into every possible aspect, including the institution itself," he said on Thursday. The KPUD has been accused of marking up the cost of renting the houses used as its secretariat in the five municipalities and the Pulau Seribu regency.

Paper parks no more: Is sustainable park management possible?

Paper parks no more: Is sustainable park management possible? M. Indrawan Jakarta Protected parks continue to be a source of controversy in Indonesia as much as many other country of the South. Establishments of the parks are frequently based on biophysical considerations, but often overlook the socio-economic interests of the local communities. This often triggers resistance by those local communities, and the reason why certain protected areas have become "paper parks".

Five RI students join physics contest in Poland

Five RI students join physics contest in Poland Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Indonesia is sending five high school students to contest the International Conference of Young Scientists 2005 in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Ecology in Katowice, Poland. This will be the first time that Indonesia has participated in the annual competition since 1993.

China to stand by developing countries

China to stand by developing countries The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Chinese President Hu Jintao reiterated his pledge on Friday that China would not leave developing countries in Asia and Africa behind despite its economic success. "China will always commit itself to achieving common development with other countries in Asia and Africa," he told the leaders from over 100 countries during the Asian-African Summit here, including Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.

'Asian, African countries have no common objectives'

'Asian, African countries have no common objectives' Dozens of heads of state from Asia and Africa are attending the two-day Asian-African Summit that started on Friday. The summit, held in conjunction with the jubilee of the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung, aims to boost relations among the nations of the two continents. How do Jakarta residents view the event? The Jakarta Post asked residents for their thoughts on the summit. Azas Tigor Nainggolan, 40, is a public advocate and activist.

Five artists 'intervene' in CCF's public spaces

Five artists 'intervene' in CCF's public spaces Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Five young artists experimenting with sound, lighting and other installations have turned the library, toilet, cafe and gallery at the Centre Culturel Francais (CCF) building into fun places, providing a new experience for visitors.

Alwi camp to go ahead with breakaway PKB congress

Alwi camp to go ahead with breakaway PKB congress The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Fears that the National Awakening Party (PKB) will split into two rival camps are likely to come true in the future, as chief welfare minister Alwi Shihab is determined to stage a breakaway congress aimed at reinstating his leadership.

Where to go in Yogyakarta: Saturday, April 23, 2005

Where to go in Yogyakarta: Saturday, April 23, 2005 Exhibitions * Fine Arts Ke-semut-an by Beny Dewo, at Parkir Space, Jl. Prawirotaman 2, until May 18. * Arts Melintas Batas by Popok Tri Wahyudi, Kedai Kebun Forum, Jl. Tirtodipuran 3 (Tel. 0274 376114), until April 29 * Fine Arts Omong Kosong, Cemeti Art House Jl. Patehan Tengah 37 (Tel. 0274 371015), until April 30 * Ceramic Clay's Story, at Lembaga Indonesia Perancis - LIP, Jl. Sagan No. 3 (Tel.

Partnership the talk of Asia-Africa Summit

Partnership the talk of Asia-Africa Summit The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Leaders of Asia and Africa gathering for a summit here expressed support on Friday for a new strategic partnership, but made it clear it would not lead to an exclusive grouping.

Police investigate fire that kills mother and son

Police investigate fire that kills mother and son Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Police are investigating the cause of a fire that killed a mother and son on Thursday evening, city police spokesman Sr. Comr. Tjiptono said. "We have sent officers there to find out what really happened. We have not named anybody a suspect yet," Tjiptono told The Jakarta Post on Friday.

Taxi driving, Jakarta style

Taxi driving, Jakarta style If recent reports are anything to go by, Governor Sutiyoso's dream of making Jakarta a more livable, people-friendly city seems to be a long way off. The increasing hardship of many residents in the capital is running parallel with a steady rise in crime. A series of recent high-profile robberies committed by taxi drivers in the city are just a few examples of the abundant street crime in our densely populated capital.

Prosecutors seek life in jail for Aussie drug suspect

Prosecutors seek life in jail for Aussie drug suspect Wahjoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar Denpasar prosecutors demanded on Thursday that an Australian woman be jailed for life for attempting to smuggle a large quantity of marijuana onto the resort island of Bali. The demand, which came after intense diplomatic pressure from the Australian government, was less than the death penalty the prosecutors could have sought.

Andung needs to prove himself quickly

Andung needs to prove himself quickly Zakki P. Hakim Jakarta First impressions are usually lasting, and are certainly telling. In his first public appearance, Minister of Industry Andung A. Nitimihardja disappointed his audience by telling the story of his long career with the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), instead of sharing his view on the country's manufacturing sector.

Is sustainable park management possible?

Is sustainable park management possible? M. Indrawan, Jakarta Protected parks continue to be a source of controversy in Indonesia as much as many other country of the South. Establishments of the parks are frequently based on biophysical considerations, but often overlook the socio-economic interests of the local communities. This often triggers resistance by those local communities, and the reason why certain protected areas have become "paper parks".

* Sweden drops criminal charges against Aceh rebels Page 2

* Sweden drops criminal charges against Aceh rebels Page 2 * Jakarta monorail likely to use S.

Zak makes cricket child's play

Zak makes cricket child's play As a fresh graduate in agricultural studies, Zakarya "Zak" M. Awang returned from Bali to his hometown of Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, in 1998 expecting to start his own business. Unfortunately, a lack of capital left him thinking of new ways to make a living. As with so many things in life which fail to stick to the prescribed script, Zakarya eventually found himself in a new career. It proved to be a whole new ball game.

Stocks fall on rate concern; BRI, Astra lead declines

Stocks fall on rate concern; BRI, Astra lead declines Bloomberg, Jakarta Indonesian stocks slid, with the key index set to close at a two- month low, after the country's benchmark interest rate rose to a 14-month high on Thursday. PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia and PT Bank Central Asia led declines on concern higher lending rates will damp consumer spending and loan demand.

Excited Bandung prepares to greet leaders

Excited Bandung prepares to greet leaders Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post/Bandung There was a definite air of excitement and anticipation as the city of Bandung made the final preparations ahead of Sunday's commemoration of the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference. This quaint city is out to impress. Streets and Art Deco buildings in the vicinity of the Merdeka Building, the venue for the commemoration activities, have been cleaned up. Newly planted flowers and fresh coats of paint are noticeable.

Chris John retains WBA title with unanimous decision

Chris John retains WBA title with unanimous decision Moch. N. Kurniawan The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Defending World Boxing Federation (WBF) featherweight champion Chris John took care of business on Friday night with a unanimous decision over American Derrick "Smoke" Gainer. Before spectators including Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso and politician Amien Rais in the packed Kelapa Gading Sports Mall in North Jakarta, the Indonesian overcame a shaky start and the American's defenses for a popular victory.

Stocks fall on rate concerns; BRI, Astra lead declines

Stocks fall on rate concerns; BRI, Astra lead declines Bloomberg, Jakarta Indonesia's stock index dropped 2.2 percent on concern lending costs will climb after the yield on one-month Bank Indonesia bills rose to a 14-month high. PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia, the nation's fourth-biggest lender, and PT Astra International, the biggest automobile distributor, led declines on concern higher borrowing rates will damp consumer spending and demand for loans.

Singaporeans look down on Indonesia

Singaporeans look down on Indonesia I am an Indonesian who is studying in Singapore. I am writing this letter to encourage all Indonesians to be more hard-working and be more mindful of the future. We have to compete with other countries in the world and show them that we can compete with them when it comes to quality human resources. We have nearly 240 million people, so we have a big pool of potential talent.

Exclusive zone,

Exclusive zone, territorial claims From Kompas An article in Kompas daily (March 7) written by I Basis Susilo noted that Indonesia's loss of Sipadan and Ligitan islands was due to the lack of a continuous presence, effective settlement and guarantee for nature conservation on border islands. In his book, Indonesia's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, First Adm.

TNI ready to leave Aceh: Chief

TNI ready to leave Aceh: Chief Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesian Military (TNI) chief Gen. Endriartono Sutarto said on Thursday the military was ready to pull out some 40,000 troops from Aceh if an agreement was reached by the government and rebels. But he said than until an agreement was reached, the military would continue to play its role in maintaining security across the tsunami-devastated province.

Jakarta quiet as Asian-African summit opens

Jakarta quiet as Asian-African summit opens Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Jakarta experienced one of its quietest days this year as the Asia-Africa Summit opened on Friday while authorities continued to impose stringent security measures around the summit venue, and several other areas across Greater Jakarta. Several of Jakarta's main streets notorious for traffic jams, including Jl. Thamrin, Jl. Sudirman and Jl.

Where are the women at AAS?

Where are the women at AAS? Women make up about 50 percent of the population in Asia and Africa, but only two women leaders are attending the Asian- African Summit (AAS) that opened on Friday in Jakarta. The two leaders are Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Mozambique Prime Minister Luisa Dias Diogo. The total population of Africa is about 850 million and Asia 3.5 billion people. That means there are more than two billion women on the two continents combined.

Photo-caption

Photo-caption FRIENDLY MEETING: Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono greets UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan at the Jakarta Convention Center. The two met on the sidelines of the Asian-African Summit on Friday.

Failure to sign tobacco pact could backfire on RI

Failure to sign tobacco pact could backfire on RI The Jakarta Post, Jakarta This smoker-friendly country could be made an example of if the government refuses to ratify the global tobacco control pact, the World Health Organization (WHO) and local activists are warning. "Indonesia risks losing international prestige and is virtually going it alone against the global trend of taking the pandemic of tobacco-related diseases seriously," WHO Indonesia environmental health program advisor Jan A.

FOUR heads

FOUR heads 1. REFORM, 3 lines, 2 cols, 15 characters RI throws its weight behind UN reform 2. BANDUNG: 1 line, 5 cols, 45 characters Excited Bandung prepares to greet leaders 3. SECURITY: 1 line, 5 cols, 45 characters Jakarta quiet as Asian-African Summit opens 4. BUSINESS: 1 lines, 7 cols, 50 character Business summit a sign of Asian, African confidence

Controversy surrounds planned Borobudur concert

Controversy surrounds planned Borobudur concert Tarko Sudiarno, The Jakarta Post/Magelang, Central Java Borobudur Temple, perched imposingly in the Menoreh mountain range since the 8th century A.D., has never been problem-free. Every time a new plan having to do with the temple is proposed, there will be debate. This includes plans to stage an orchestra concert, Message of Peace from one of the World's Wonders, at the temple on April 23.

Vietnam donates $1.46m in tsunami aid

Vietnam donates $1.46m in tsunami aid JAKARTA: Visiting President of Vietnam Tran Duc Luong handed over US$1.46 million in a cash donation to the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) to help tsunami victims in Indonesia. Luong said that the $1.4 million cash and goods worth $7,000 were given as a token of friendship between Vietnam and Indonesia.

Female drivers take wheel on busway

Female drivers take wheel on busway Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Neni Aryani, 27, a diminutive young woman, held the wheel steady during her maiden journey as a busway driver with Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso and his entourage aboard, from Blok M to Kota. "I love challenging jobs.

Taman Mini's museums

Taman Mini's museums require maintenance From Media Indonesia Over the last few months, our family has been visiting various interesting places, particularly museums and regional pavilions at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in East Jakarta. Regrettably, several parts of the park today are no longer as splendid as they used to be. Some of the places we have observed are not properly maintained.

3 X 18

3 X 18 Conditions drafted for protection of migrant workers JP/ICRC 1 X 32 ICRC to carry on with aid in Aceh JP/4/WHO 1 x 53 Failure to sign tobacco pact could backfire on RI JP/4/physics 1 x 46 Five RI students join physics contest in Poland

NGO to celebrate World Press Day

NGO to celebrate World Press Day MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: In conjunction with World Press Day, which falls on May 3, a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Makassar will screen 10 domestic and foreign films about the media. The 10 films, including All The President's Men and The Insider, will be screened in the Societed de Harmoni building in Makassar between Friday and Sunday.

Anyone for ... cricket? Enthusiasts go to bat for their sport

Anyone for ... cricket? Enthusiasts go to bat for their sport Bruce Emond, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Most local sports lovers have no problem rattling off the names of European soccer's leading lights, the towering titans of U.S. basketball and one or two of tennis' shining stars. But they would be stumped to describe what cricket is all about, let alone who are the sport's top men at the wicket.

Next JSX directors urged to uphold law

Next JSX directors urged to uphold law Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Weak law enforcement and a lack of good corporate governance (GCG) are the main problems that must be addressed by the next management of the Jakarta Stock Exchange (JSX) to attract investors and encourage more firms to list their shares on the bourse, experts say.

Appeals against KPPU tanker ruling must be joined

Appeals against KPPU tanker ruling must be joined Leony Aurora, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Judicial panels at the Central Jakarta District Court have decided to support a decree by the Supreme Court, saying all appeals against state oil and gas company PT Pertamina's tanker sale ruling must be consolidated into a single file.

Objectivity in Mulyana's case

Objectivity in Mulyana's case From Bisnis Indonesia The press has apparently reached a verdict on the case of Mulyana W. Kusumah's alleged bribery and corruption in the General Elections Commission, while in fact before any court decision, Mulyana should be presumed innocent. With the opinion formed by the press, there are fears that the panel of judges may no longer be objective in the trial of the case now in the public spotlight.

TNI forms team to probe forest crime

TNI forms team to probe forest crime JAKARTA: The Indonesian Military (TNI) has set up a special joint team with the police and prosecutors in a bid to help speed up investigations into the alleged involvement of military officials and law enforcers in illegal logging activities in the country. Deputy chief of the military police Brig. Gen. Hendardji said on Thursday that the joint team would also investigate civilian officials involved in the crime.

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on April 21, 2005

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on April 21, 2005 ____________________________________________________________________________ Shares Close Change Trading Volume ______________________________________________________________________________ Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 1,510 0 0 Adhi Karya 720 -70 13,627,000 Adira Dinamika 2,350 0 0 AGIS Tbk 130 0 100,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 240 -85 10,500 AKR Corporindo Tbk 1,240 0 883,000 Alakasa Industrindo 165 0 0 Alfa...

Malaysia gets crafty

Malaysia gets crafty From Kompas Malaysia is among the nations in the world with "crafty" moves, as shown in the border dispute with Indonesia over the ownership of Sipadan and Ligitan islands. Malaysia built resorts on the islands even before the dispute was settled, without responding to Indonesia's protests. This Malaysian activity gave the International Court of Justice reason to grant Malaysia's claim over the two islands.

Pragmatism in Asia-Africa strategic partnership

Pragmatism in Asia-Africa strategic partnership Philips Jusario Vermonte, Jakarta Much has been written about the Asian-African Summit that will adopt the new strategic partnership between countries of the two continents. Some have delineated pessimism while others shared positive comments on the question of where this new initiative is heading.

~Checked

~Checked ;JP; Captions for Singapore MICE Industry: Photo A: STB BUSINESS HUB: The Merlion, the symbol of Singapore, stands elegantly amid the towering scrapers and the new Esplanade - Theater on the Bay -- as a backdrop. As an international business hub with many multinational companies, Singapore provides easy access to global markets. Photo B: STB CITY OF CONVENTIONS: Delegates attend a convention in Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Center.

Asia Foundation: Fifty years in the life of an institution

Asia Foundation: Fifty years in the life of an institution Wimar Witoelar, Jakarta Fifty years ago he was nine going on ten, growing up in Jakarta. It was hot and humid as it is now, without air conditioning, but also without traffic congestion except on bad days in Jakarta Kota. Freedom was in the air even for this boy. Newspapers spread diverse viewpoints, cinemas played foreign movies and the radio incessantly played fifties songs that were not oldies then.

OK, thnks

OK, thnks Singapore remains Asia's top MICE destination Singapore has served as a trading hub and financial center for Southeast Asia thanks to its strategic location and environment conducive to international business activities. Located at the crossroads of the world in the Strait of Malacca, Singapore is home to at least 7,000 multinational corporations and several thousand financial institutions and trading firms.

Jobless physicians

Jobless physicians need assignments From Warta Kota The foreign medical personnel sent to Aceh and probably also Nias comprise not only specialists but also junior practitioners, so that they will have experience in handling various cases not found in their countries. Why hasn't this government assigned our new (Indonesian) medical graduates to Aceh and Nias?

Part 1 of 2

Part 1 of 2 Strategies for civil service reform in Indonesia Jakarta Many in Indonesia seem to agree to the need for civil service reform. But a consensus on what a civil service reform would imply does not exist. Partly, this is because there has not been an extensive public debate in which various options have been discussed and examined. These two articles will elaborate on what successful civil service reform in Indonesia would require, hopefully to initiate such a debate.

Yogya to have another more hospital

Yogya to have another more hospital YOGYAKARTA: The people of Yogyakarta will soon have another hospital as the Indonesian Islamic University Foundation is building an international hospital in Condong Catur, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The construction of the hospital, to be called the Jogja International Hospital, will cost Rp 50 billion (US$5.5 million).

School for the disabled helps students reach for the future

School for the disabled helps students reach for the future Indra Harsaputra, The Jakarta Post/Surabaya Dina Ambarwati was elated when she was hired as a teacher's assistant at School No. 99 for the Disabled in Surabaya. After working there for some time, she also was happy to learn that visually impaired students had the same hopes and aspirations as any other person. "I'm pleased because my effort in teaching the blind students has been rewarded.

RI throws its weight behind UN reform

RI throws its weight behind UN reform Adianto P. Simamora and Ivy Susanti, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono reiterated Indonesia's full support for reform at the United Nations during a meeting with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan on Friday. Presidential spokesman Dino Pati Djalal said that reform within the UN, which includes the broadening of representation on the Security Council, would allow Indonesia to boost its diplomatic stature.

Sutiyoso, Jakarta Monorail favor Rotem over Hitachi

Sutiyoso, Jakarta Monorail favor Rotem over Hitachi Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Jakarta's monorail project is likely to use trains produced by South Korean firm Rotem after the city administration and PT Jakarta Monorail (JM) hinted that its technology was as good as that of Japan's Hitachi. Governor Sutiyoso said on Thursday that monorail trains produced by Rotem were relatively cheaper than others, while its technology equaled that of Japan, France and Canada.

JP/ /

JP/ / 1. LEVIES -- 6 col, 1 line 1 x 36 New levies to double city revenue 2. MONORAIL -- 3 col, 1 line 2 x 28 Sutiyoso, Jakarta Monorail favor Rotem over Hitachi 3. FIRE -- 3 col, 1 line 2 x 24 Police investigate fire that killed mother and son 4. SCHOOL -- 3 col, 1 line 2 x 30 Parents complain about increase in Serpong school admission fees 5 SPEAKUP -- col 3, 2 line 2 x 20 'Asian, African countries have no common objectives'

Sardjito to host reproduction talks

Sardjito to host reproduction talks YOGYAKARTA: In a bid to raise awareness and increase the people's understanding about invitro fertilization technology, or bayi tabung, as it is popularly known on Java, Yogyakarta-based Dr. Sardjito hospital will hold a seminar on the technology beginning April 30, 2005.

Business summit a sign of Asian, African confidence

Business summit a sign of Asian, African confidence Zakki P. Hakim and Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Confidence is high that the Asian-African Summit will result in a new strategic partnership for the nations involved. The signs of it were in the air after the Asian-African Business Summit concluded on a high note on Friday with the signing of a joint declaration to strengthen business and economic ties between the two continents.

Senior South, North Koreans meet; no nuclear talk

Senior South, North Koreans meet; no nuclear talk Jack Kim, Reuters/Seoul/Jakarta North and South Korea held their highest-level meeting in five years in Jakarta on Friday while other officials met to tackle a bird flu outbreak in the North -- nine months after all bilateral dialog broke off.

25 Serang residents test positive for HIV

25 Serang residents test positive for HIV SERANG: At least 25 Serang residents have tested positive for HIV, most of whom are in their reproductive years, according to blood tests done in December last year. Head of Serang's Infectious Diseases Elimination Division Maria Ismiati said the blood samples were gathered from a study of 257 blood samples of sex workers, homosexuals, transsexuals and prisoners. She added that the blood tests were done to investigate the prevalence of HIV in the area.

ICRC to carry on with tsunami aid in Aceh

ICRC to carry on with tsunami aid in Aceh Agence France-Presse, Geneva The International Committee of the Red Cross said on Friday it would continue to provide aid to victims of the recent tsunami and earthquakes in Indonesia and Sri Lanka until reconstruction efforts "produce results".

Specials Report -- Singapore-MICE

Specials Report -- Singapore-MICE More wireless rooms available in Singapore The rising number of business visitors has prompted more hotels and serviced apartments in Singapore to offer services and facilities specially designed to meet the needs of business travelers. Besides fully equipped business centers, the country's star- rated hotels also provide wireless broadband Internet access, or Wifi hotspots.

Asia, Africa and the Non-Aligned Movement

Asia, Africa and the Non-Aligned Movement Hafid Abbas, Jakarta With the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Asian- African Conference (AAC) on April 19 to April 24 in Jakarta and Bandung, it is relevant for us to look back at the ideas and background of the AAC, which inspired the birth of the Non- Aligned Movement. What has been achieved since and how relevant is the Spirit of Bandung in response to present and future challenges?

Parents complain about increase in Serpong school admission fees

Parents complain about increase in Serpong school admission fees Multa Fidrus, The Jakarta Post, Tangerang Dozens of school-aged children in Rawa Buntu village in Serpong, Tangerang will not get an education this year as the nearby state elementary school raised its admission fees from between Rp 350,000 last year to Rp 2.35 million in 2005. The school, Karya Bakti elementary, defended the decision, saying that the money was needed to construct three new classrooms.

Zainuddin seeks to retain PBR top post

Zainuddin seeks to retain PBR top post JAKARTA: Muslim scholar Zainuddin MZ is determined to retain his position as the leader of the Reform Star Party (PBR) in the party's first congress from April 26 to April 28 in Jakarta. Legislator Bursah Zarnubi, who is a strong contender for the post of secretary general, said on Thursday that Zainuddin remained the most appealing figure that could attract voters. He said Zainuddin had secured votes from at least 300 out of 400 party branches.

Exclusive zone,

Exclusive zone, territorial claims From Kompas An article in Kompas daily (March 7) written by I Basis Susilo noted that Indonesia's loss of Sipadan and Ligitan islands was due to the lack of a continuous presence, effective settlement and guarantee for nature conservation on border islands. In his book, Indonesia's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, First Adm.

Tax reform could induce an upward spiral of economic optimism

Tax reform could induce an upward spiral of economic optimism David E. Sumual Jakarta Amid the barrage of negative news concerning Indonesia's financial markets lately, there has been an encouraging development in that the government finally launched its long- awaited US$1 billion international bond issue last week. This new issuance should effectively boost the supply of foreign exchange and help Indonesia's budget to reach its targeted deficit at 0.8 percent of GDP in 2005.

Sweden drops charges against Aceh rebels

Sweden drops charges against Aceh rebels Stephen Brown, Reuters/Stockholm Sweden on Friday dropped criminal charges against Aceh rebel leaders who have led their independence struggle from exile in Stockholm for nearly 30 years but are now holding peace talks with Indonesia. Two top political leaders of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) were detained last June on charges of breaking international law by directing the armed struggle from afar.

Chris John staves off Gainer

Chris John staves off Gainer Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Defending World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight champion Chris John took care of business on Friday night with a unanimous decision over American Derrick "Smoke" Gainer. Before spectators including Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso and politician Amien Rais in the packed Kelapa Gading Sports Mall in North Jakarta, the Indonesian overcame a shaky start and the American's defenses for a popular victory.

Stop selling coral

Stop selling coral Pondok Indah Mall in South Jakarta last weekend organized a display and sale of coral in various sizes worth millions of rupiah. Let us hope it was imitation coral, because it takes millions of years to form the habitat of such marine biota, which, in turn, is important to humans. I am sick of this psychopathic behavior shown by all those concerned: Businessmen, mall operators, buyers and relevant authorities. Have they no feelings of guilt or shame whatsoever?

Better basic services for Indonesia

Better basic services for Indonesia Menno Pradhan Jakarta Indonesia's citizens deserve better services. Many Indonesians lack access to basic services and this impacts human development outcome.

Haluoleo uncovers admissions scandal

Haluoleo uncovers admissions scandal KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: As part of its efforts to maintain its reputation, Haluoleo University has canceled the diplomas of six alumni who were found to have gained entry to the university without going through the proper procedures. The university, through a rector's letter dated April 19, also kicked out five students currently studying there who were also found to have been admitted to the university without following proper procedures.

Maids must know their rights

Maids must know their rights Maids being tortured by employers in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere has become a weekly news story. It is important to send educated Indonesians to work as maids abroad like Filipina maids. As a result, they know their rights and can seek help. No Indonesian maid should be allowed to leave the country to work abroad as a maid before taking a course -- funded by the government -- on "living and working abroad".

Chris John staves off Gainer to retain WBA belt

Chris John staves off Gainer to retain WBA belt Moch. N. Kurniawan The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Defending World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight champion Chris John took care of business on Friday night with a unanimous decision over American Derrick "Smoke" Gainer. Before spectators including Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso and politician Amien Rais in the packed Kelapa Gading Sports Mall in North Jakarta, the Indonesian overcame a shaky start and the American's defenses for a popular victory.

Eviction victims seek compensation

Eviction victims seek compensation BEKASI: At least 300 residents of Jatiwarna, Jatiasih, Jatimekar and Jakamulya subdistricts in Bekasi, West Java, held a joint prayer from Thursday night to early Friday morning for eviction victims, who lost their homes because of the ongoing construction of the Jakarta Outer Ring Road (JORR) project.

PBB set to hold congress next week

PBB set to hold congress next week BENGKULU: Members of the Crescent Star Party (PBB) will discuss the party's future at a congress from April 28 to May 1 in Surabaya, East Java, following its dismal performance in last year's general elections. Deputy chairman of PBB Sahar L. Hassan said on Thursday that party members would decide whether they should form a new party or join other political parties to be able to participate in the 2009 general elections.

Earthquake devastates Nias tourist industry

Earthquake devastates Nias tourist industry Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post/Medan Tourism on Nias island is in a state of ruin as the monster earthquake of March 28 damaged almost 90 percent of tourism infrastructure in the area, a senior government official said on Thursday. The most damaged tourist spots are Sorake and Lagundri beaches, said Ezra Munthe, the head of the North Sumatra administration's culture and tourism office.

1. PKB (75) -- 48 pts 7 cols 1lines (1x45)

1. PKB (75) -- 48 pts 7 cols 1lines (1x45) Alwi camp to go ahead with breakaway PKB congress 2. KPU (40) - 36 pts 3 cols 2line (2x21) Audit report indicates major corruption at KPU 3. Busway (45) -- 36 pts 4 cols 1line (1x30) Female drivers take wheel on busway 4. GAM (35) -- 32 pts 2 cols 2lines (2x16) Sweden drops charges against GAM leaders 5. Mandiri (40) - 36 pts 4 cols 2lines (2x24) Aburizal asks public not to prejudge Mandiri case --- 5. Oddworld, photos, ad

Taman Mini will likely survive longer than Soeharto's regime

Taman Mini will likely survive longer than Soeharto's regime Evi Mariani The Jakarta Post/Jakarta "And, in a bid to form a powerful regime that governs all the nation, and all of Indonesia's resources -- as well as upholds personal pride and renders the nation destitute -- the Harapan Kita Foundation declares open Taman Mini Indonesia Indah." This parody of the last paragraph of the 1945 Constitution's preamble appeared in 1972 in a student newspaper, Sendi, in Yogyakarta.

Stop selling coral

Stop selling coral Pondok Indah Mall in South Jakarta last weekend organized a display and sale of coral in various sizes worth millions of rupiah. Let us hope it was imitation coral, because it takes millions of years to form the habitat of such marine biota, which, in turn, is important to humans. I am sick of this psychopathic behavior shown by all those concerned: Businessmen, mall operators, buyers and relevant authorities. Have they no feelings of guilt or shame whatsoever?

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, April 25, 2005

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, April 25, 2005 Exhibitions * Indian Painting Exhibition, at World Trade Center, Jl. Sudirman Kav. 27-29 South Jakarta, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., until April 30 * Painting Arok Dedes Pramoedya: Sebuah Tafsir Visual by Muhamad Yusuf at Gallery Lontar , Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta (Tel. 8573388), until April 30 * Kris, The Passion of the Collector, Erasmus Huis, Jl. HR Rasuna Said kav. S-3, South Jakarta (Tel.

Hyatt offers cooking class

Hyatt offers cooking class YOGYAKARTA: In observance of Kartini Day (Womens' Day) on April 21, 2005, the Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta on Jl. Palagan Tentara Pelajar is hoping cooking buffs will enroll in a cooking class to be held on Saturday, April 23, 2005. According to the Hyatt's public relations officer Milla Milkani, the cooking class, which is limited to 30 participants, will create experiences and show cooking ideas from the hotel's original recipes.

Exclusive zone,

Exclusive zone, territorial claims From Kompas An article in Kompas daily (March 7) written by I Basis Susilo noted that Indonesia's loss of Sipadan and Ligitan islands was due to the lack of a continuous presence, effective settlement and guarantee for nature conservation on border islands. In his book, Indonesia's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, First Adm.

Pedicabs sign off for Rp 20,000

Pedicabs sign off for Rp 20,000 Bandung pedicab (becak) drivers have signed a contract agreeing not to operate in the general vicinity of the Merdeka Building -- the venue of the Asian-African Commemorative Summit -- during the runup to and the day of the event. The "Memorandum of Understanding" with the city secretary (sekwilda) was reportedly signed by some 3,000 becak drivers on behalf of the estimated 23,000 pedicabs operating in the West Java capital.

Tracing former grandeur of Islamic Mataram

Tracing former grandeur of Islamic Mataram Tarko Sudiarno, The Jakarta Post/Yogyakarta Three yellow, spherical stones, one of which has a diameter of half a meter, lie on a black stone altar. Smoke continues to waft from the incense burning in a fireplace next to the altar stone. A well-built man tries to lift the stones one by one. However, he can raise only the smallest above his head.

Army officer shot along RI-ET border

Army officer shot along RI-ET border KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: An Army officer was injured after being shot on Thursday by an unknown assailant on the Indonesia- East Timor border. The incident took place when a group of TNI soldiers led by First. Lt. Teddy Setyawan spotted a group of nine people allegedly attempting to smuggle fuel into East Timor from Lamaknen district in Belu regency. The soldiers managed to arrest them, but some got away and fled into East Timor territory.

Conditions drafted for protection of migrant workers

Conditions drafted for protection of migrant workers The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government has drawn up a list of conditions aimed at protecting the interests of Indonesians working overseas, a senior official says. The director general for labor exports at the Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration, I Gusti Made Arke, said Indonesia would only send workers to those countries that agreed to these new conditions.

New levies to double city revenue

New levies to double city revenue Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The City Council endorsed on Thursday a new bylaw that would allow the city administration to impose one-time start-up fees and annual levies on golf courses, hotels, restaurants and entertainment centers. Under current Bylaw No. 3/1999 on regional levies, the city administration does not impose levies on these types of businesses.

Delegations commit to business networks

Delegations commit to business networks Zakki P. Hakim and Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Representatives of businesses participating in the Asia-Africa Business Summit signed a joint declaration on Friday aimed at, among other things, promoting economic and technical cooperation and business networking among the participants.

Death sentence for corruptors

Death sentence for corruptors From Media Indonesia The attorney general has said that capital punishment is still needed to deter criminals, but the sentence has not been handed down to any corruptors, and yet the country is still in the midst of a crisis. While drug traffickers and murderers have recently gotten the firing squad, why can't the sentence be given to corruptors? Is it because they are in a position to buy their way out of the sentence?

Audit report indicates massive corruption at KPU

Audit report indicates massive corruption at KPU Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The report on an investigative audit conducted by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) indicates deep-rooted corruption at the General Elections Commission (KPU), with all activities related to the procurement of materials for last year's general election apparently tainted with irregularities.

What leaders say about new strategic partnership

What leaders say about new strategic partnership Many of the Asian and African leaders attending the two-day summit that opened in Jakarta on Friday have signed Asian-African Strategic Partnership (NAASP). The to recognize the relevance of the solidarity, friendship and cooperation initiated by the Asian and African leaders who attended the historic 1955 conference in Bandung. The following are comments by some of the leaders at the summit's opening.

Golf chief irate over report Jakarta prize money report

Golf chief irate over report Jakarta prize money report Agencies, Beijing Asia's golf chief conceded on Friday that he was powerless to help nearly 80 professionals kept waiting for almost a month for a reported million dollars in prize money from last month's Indonesia Open golf tournament. Asian Tour chief executive Louis Martin said he was at a loss to explain why promoter Parallel Media Group (PMG) allegedly failed to hand over the money after the Indonesia Open.

People-profile-PaulTedja

People-profile-PaulTedja JP/20/PAULTJ Paul Tedja, seasoned snapper of world events Yuli Tri Suwarni The Jakarta Post/Bandung One of Paul Tedja Surya's dreams at the age of 75 is to enter the Merdeka Building on Jl. Asia Afrika, Bandung, on April 24 and watch rows of Asian and African heads of state being photographed at a historic event -- the golden jubilee of the first Asian- African Conference (AAC 1).

AA Summit is serious business for Musharraf

AA Summit is serious business for Musharraf Ivy Susanti and Endy M. Bayuni, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta On a clear Thursday evening, Pakistan President Gen. Pervez Musharraf and a number of Indonesian journalists sat together in a suite in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Central Jakarta, where the president spoke on various issues concerning the summit and Pakistan's relations with Indonesia and neighbors India and China.

Taman Mini's museums

Taman Mini's museums require maintenance From Media Indonesia Over the last few months, our family has been visiting various interesting places, particularly museums and regional pavilions at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in East Jakarta. Regrettably, several parts of the park today are no longer as splendid as they used to be. Some of the places we have observed are not properly maintained.

Malaysia gets crafty

Malaysia gets crafty From Kompas Malaysia is among the nations in the world with "crafty" moves, as shown in the border dispute with Indonesia over the ownership of Sipadan and Ligitan islands. Malaysia built resorts on the islands even before the dispute was settled, without responding to Indonesia's protests. This Malaysian activity gave the International Court of Justice reason to grant Malaysia's claim over the two islands.

Activists commemorate Earth Day

Activists commemorate Earth Day The Jakarta Post, Buleleng/Surabaya/Kendari Students and environmentalists across the archipelago commemorated Earth Day over the past three days with various activities, including cleaning up coral reefs. In Buleleng regency, Bali, activists with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and other NGOs cleaned up coral reefs near Menjangan Island here.

Aburizal asks public not to prejudge Mandiri case

Aburizal asks public not to prejudge Mandiri case Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta With prosecutors stepping up their investigation into a massive corruption scandal involving up to Rp 12 trillion (US$1.3 billion) worth of bank loans and 33 companies, the country's senior economics minister asked the public not rush to pass judgment based on the preliminary results of the investigation.

UGM launches new nurse training unit

UGM launches new nurse training unit YOGYAKARTA: In cooperation with PT Roll Internusa Mandiri (RIM), the Nursing Science Study Program of Gajah Mada University's School of Medicine launched here on Thursday the Professional Nurse Training Unit. Head of the study program Sunartini said the establishment of the unit was mainly inspired by the high demand of skilled nurses in the world and the large number of partially trained nurses in this country.

Many of the Asian and African leaders attending the two-day

Many of the Asian and African leaders attending the two-day summit that opened in Jakarta on Friday have signed the New Asian-African Strategic Partnership (NAASP). The partnership aims to recognize the relevance of the solidarity, friendship and cooperation initiated by the Asian and African leaders who attended the historic 1955 conference in Bandung. The following are comments by some of the leaders at the summit's opening.

Informant law a must

Informant law a must The fate of Khairiansyah Salman (a Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) auditor who recently blew the whistle on the General Elections Commission (KPU) for alleged corruption, which led to KPU member Mulyana W. Kusumah's arrest by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), has stunned all who want to see Indonesia free of corruption.

Bali and the 'Post'

Bali and the 'Post' I know there is a long way from the printing machine to my home in Krobokan, Bali. But I never will understand, why it is not possible for The Jakarta Post to arrive at my home before noon. Usually the Post comes between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tourists, however, can buy the Post on the streets of Kuta, Legian or Seminyak at around 10 a.m. I often complain at the agency that distributes it, Agency Astha in Denpasar, but without any success.