Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2005

90 articles found

Hepatitis B feared, but is curable

Hepatitis B feared, but is curable The World Health Organization estimates that 2 billion people are infected by Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and of that amount 400 million chronically infected, which left untreated could develop into cirrhosis or liver cancer. George K.K. Lau from the Hong Kong University said that 75 percent of the people with HBV were from the Asia-Pacific region. Indonesia ranks third after China and India.

Raiding elephants force residents out

Raiding elephants force residents out OGAN KOMERING ULU: The entire population of a village in South Sumatra province has fled in fear of nightly raids by a herd of wild elephants, which have damaged homes and fields, it was reported Wednesday. The 11 elephants, led by a large long-tusked male, have been raiding Padang Lais village since Aug. 18, laying waste to plantations and fields and wrecking about 50 houses, the state Antara news agency said.

Thugs divide the capital into areas of control

Thugs divide the capital into areas of control Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta This is the second of a series of articles on thuggery in the capital, which the city administration, police and military have promised to wipe out within one month. Standing outside in the heat on a Sunday afternoon, a young man stops a van on a busy alleyway in Tanah Abang market, Central Jakarta, and indicates to the driver to open his window and give him some money.

Asian urged to boost labor standards

Asian urged to boost labor standards Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Bangkok The United Nations has called on governments across Asia to improve their migrant labor policies, particularly as regards the living standards of foreign migrants, in a bid to mitigate the social upheavals that could be caused by their improper treatment.

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, August 25, 2005

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, August 25, 2005 .TB.30" 1.0" Exhibitions * Painting Invisible Impresion by Kenji Sasaki, at Ritz-Carlton, Bali Resort and Spa, Cliff Villa Gallery, until Sept. 4 * Painting, Hand Painted Ceramic Dance Pieces by Anne van Borselen, at Jenggala Art Gallery, Jl. Uluwatu 2, Jimbaran, from Aug. 26 to Oct. 20 * Black and White Photography Sunyi dari Papua by Poriaman Sitanggang, at Ina Grand Bali Beach, Sector Bar & Club, Sanur, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., until Aug.

Country Profile: Malaysia

Country Profile: Malaysia The MSC : Narrowing the digital divide. Conceptualized and created in 1996, the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) is a national project by the Malaysian government designed to propel Malaysia into a knowledge-based society through the innovative use of information and communications technology (ICT). As one of the key engines of growth, the MSC will help drive Malaysia to achieve its vision of becoming a fully developed nation by the year 2020.

Fak-fak sawmill workers stranded in Jakarta

Fak-fak sawmill workers stranded in Jakarta The Jakarta Post, Jakarta More than 180 workers from sawmill company PT Prabu Alaska in Fak-fak, West Irian Jaya, are stranded in Jakarta as they seek government help to force their employer to pay overdue wages that have been suspended for 13 months. The employees have already spent days camping in the parking lot of the Manpower and Transmigration Ministry compound.

Government intensifies drive to boost excise revenue

Government intensifies drive to boost excise revenue Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Ministry of Finance has teamed up with the National Police to crack down on the practice of counterfeiting excise seals on cigarette packs, which last year caused state losses estimated at Rp 150 billion (US$15 million).

Supplements credited for athletes' success

Supplements credited for athletes' success Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The use of nutritional supplements this year is credited with boosting the performance of national athletes, with one breaking a national record and several others improving their personal bests. Oliva Sadi improved the national 1,500 meter mark from the 4:21.50 seconds set by Supriati Sutono in 1997 to 4:19.48 in the recent National Athletics Championships here.

Headings

Headings 1. POLIO -- 4x12 City prepares for next round of polio vaccination 2. THUGS -- 1x48 Thugs divide areas of control in the capital 3. BUS -- 2x32 Bus drivers, passengers complain about route change along busway line 4. BINUS -- 1x50 Bina Nusantara offers world-class tertiary education 5. SCHOOL -- 1x40 Students optimistic about passing repeat exam 6. SPEAK -- 1x30 'Subsidy cut may ease traffic'

Financial service industry to grow slower: Association

Financial service industry to grow slower: Association The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The continued depreciation of the rupiah against the U.S. dollar will put the brakes on the rapid development of the country's financial services industry, cutting its growth by more than half this year, an industry player says.

Number of elderly people increasing

Number of elderly people increasing Hera Diani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Society's focus on youth coupled with a lack of welfare schemes for the elderly will mean that rising numbers of senior citizens in the country will be neglected in the future if action is not taken now, advocacy groups say. This year's data from the Central Statistics Bureau (BPS) shows there are around 16 million over-60s in the country, or about 8 percent of the country's estimated 210 million population.

68 foreign sex workers arrested

68 foreign sex workers arrested Abdul Khalik The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Sixty-eight foreign sex workers were apprehended in raids on a number of nightclubs, saunas and beauty salons here on Tuesday evening, police said on Wednesday. City police spokesman Sr. Comr. Tjiptono said that all of the foreigners had misused their visas by working as sex workers in the country. Some of them were holding expired visas.

1. DPR (1x32)

1. DPR (1x32) House does not perform: Watchdog 2. Visit (2x10) SBY to visit Palestine 3. Papua (2x24) Papuan sawmill workers stranded in Jakarta OR Papuan sawmill workers get no help from central govt 4. Energy (1x35) S. Africa, RI plan energy cooperation 5. Aging (1x38) Number of elderly people increasing OR Action needed to help elderly people

DPD seeks revision of various laws

DPD seeks revision of various laws JAKARTA: The speaker of the Regional Representatives Council (DPD), Ginandjar Kartasasmita, said laws dealing with different sectors, including forestry, ports and the environment, must be revised to make regional autonomy more effective. He said this was one of the points agreed upon during a meeting on Wednesday between officials from the DPD, provincial administrations and provincial legislative councils.

On ban on Ahmadiyah

On ban on Ahmadiyah I read the article Govt mulls ban on Ahmadiyah due to 'permit violation' in your online edition of July 22. Reading the statement of Attorney General Abdul Rachman Saleh took me back centuries to the age of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. The excuse the attorney general is using is the exact same excuse the Meccans used to justify their opposition and persecution of the innocent, peace-loving and law-abiding Muslims.

Deputy Regent probed in graft case

Deputy Regent probed in graft case KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: East Nusa Tenggara Prosecutor's Office will soon question Kupang Deputy Regent Ruben Funay over a corruption matter. Senior prosecutor Hartadi said that the summons letter had been sent to Ruben on Monday and he is expected to attend for questioning this week.

Fuel price hike threatens jobs in Lampung

Fuel price hike threatens jobs in Lampung Oyos Saroso H.N., The Jakarta Post, Bandarlampung The steep increase of diesel fuel prices has threatened thousands of jobs in Lampung province as several private companies have begun to prepare for massive layoffs of workers. The companies will have to lay off the laborers in the near future as the cost of production has been on the rise since the diesel fuel price went up again in early August from Rp 2,200 (22 U.S.

More than 180 workers from sawmill company PT Prabu Alaska in

More than 180 workers from sawmill company PT Prabu Alaska in Fak-fak, West Irian Jaya, are stranded in Jakarta as they seek government help to force their employer to pay overdue wages that have been suspended for 13 months. The employees have already spent days camping in the parking lot of the Manpower and Transmigration Ministry compound.

Govt takes no action as rupiah dips

Govt takes no action as rupiah dips Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Rather than taking real actions to send positive signals to the market and prevent the rupiah from falling, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono instead appealed to the nation "to stick together for more constructive measures" to overcome the situation.

RP, Australia open defense talks

RP, Australia open defense talks PHILIPPINES: Philippine and Australian officials opened on Wednesday a two-day meeting aimed at expanding defense cooperation including in maritime security and military training. Philippine Defense Undersecretary Alejandro Melchor and Australian Defense Department assistant secretary Ben Coleman headed the second meeting of the Philippine-Australia defense cooperation working group, bringing together experts and planners of the two countries.

Region watches closely Indonesia's anti-polio campaign

Region watches closely Indonesia's anti-polio campaign Hera Diani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta With 225 children infected by polio and rising concerns in neighboring countries over the spread of the virus in neighboring countries, experts say that it will require a tremendous response from Indonesia to curb the polio outbreak. Hamid Jafari, director of the global immunization division of the U.S.

Western ignorance and Muslim mayhem

Western ignorance and Muslim mayhem Achsin el-qudsy, Jakarta The Western fear of Islam and Muslims was not invented. To Westerners, Islam is a symbol of all terrifying acts of violence and anarchy. The West becomes sensitive and allergic to everything suggestive of Islam. Sadly, the Muslim community seems unaware of it and considers it a mere passing nightmare and an excuse to harass them.

PM berates Aussie drug users

PM berates Aussie drug users Australians who take drugs into Asia are stupid and should not expect to be bailed out by the Australian government, Prime Minister John Howard said after another two Australians were detained in Indonesia over drugs. Howard said he could not believe Australians would still risk taking drugs into Asia after the high-profile conviction of beautician Schapelle Corby, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in May for smuggling 4.2 kg of marijuana into Bali.

Chocolate expo to indulge city

Chocolate expo to indulge city JAKARTA: Chocoholics can spoil their taste buds at a three-day exhibition that features anything and everything made of chocolate, with the Chocolate Dream World Expo opening Thursday. The exhibition being held at the Semanggi Expo Hall B, South Jakarta, from Aug. 25 through Aug. 27, will display a chocolate fountain, in which people can dip crackers and biscuits provided by the organizer.

Table of hepatitis B patients worldwide

Table of hepatitis B patients worldwide In million China 120.0 India 48.0 Indonesia 11.6 Republic of Philippines 7.6 Korea 3.5 Japan 1.3 Hong Kong 0.7 Singapore 0.03 Australia 0.2 Source: WHO, 2003 Tabel 2 Quick Facts on Hepatitis C 1. Hepatitis C is an inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis C virus 2. Almost all people with hepatitis C are infected through direct contact with infected blood 3. The majority of patients experience few symptoms throughout the disease 4.

JP/19/MONTY2

JP/19/MONTY2 Containing success at Surabaya's Tanjung Perak port Shortly before he resigned, president Soeharto appointed businessman Tanri Abeng as the first minister for state-owned enterprises -- a job he held when president Habibie took over. The assignment was to privatize or semi-privatize government- held industries and the Surabaya container terminal at Tanjung Perak was on Mr Abeng's list.

ADS/Country Profile: Malaysia

ADS/Country Profile: Malaysia Partnering the world in trade The last decade saw Malaysia's merchandise trade grow by more than twofold from RM347.33 billion, or US$136.74 billion, in 1995 to RM880.82 billion ($231.79 billion) in 2004. Merchandise exports surged from RM184.99 billion ($72.83 billion) in 1995 to RM480.74 billion ($126.5 billion) in 2004, while imports reached RM400.08 billion ($105.28 billion).

Jakarta needs more trees

Jakarta needs more trees Your correspondent Robert Kelly makes some pertinent points in his article entitled Rolling back Jakarta's unhealthy urban desert(The Jakarta Post, Aug. 6). The green areas that still exist in greater Jakarta really need to be maintained whether they are part of existing parks e.g. Taman Mini or tree lined streets such as those in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta.

Fate of veterans' widows

Fate of veterans' widows From Kompas My mother is the widow of an independence war veteran who receives a government pension in Yogyakarta. For three years now, she has not been receiving what she is entitled to. According to local bank and pension officers, a widow only needs to support herself and is not entitled to a contribution towards to costs of living of her children. I wonder if this is right.

Susilo to visit U.S., Palestine in September

Susilo to visit U.S., Palestine in September A historic visit to Palestine will wrap up an overseas trip President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is scheduled to make in September. The President will be out of the country from Sept. 11 to Sept. 23 on a trip that will also take him to the United States and Saudi Arabia. Minister of Foreign Affairs Hassan Wirayuda said on Wednesday the President would make his second visit to the U.S.

No school uniforms?

No school uniforms? From Kompas The decision by the minister of national education to abolish the obligation for school students to wear uniforms in order to eliminate the monopoly in uniform procurements was inappropriate. If this is carried out, various negative effects could arise from the wide economic disparities between students. There have already been reports of students committing suicide because of economic reasons.

Five die in boat accident in Ambon

Five die in boat accident in Ambon M. Azis Tunny, The Jakarta Post, Ambon At least five people died and one person was missing when a boat capsized in the waters off Kayeli Bay in Buru regency, Ambon, on Tuesday. At the time of the accident, which took place near Batu Jungku village in Batabual district, the Dewi Yul interisland boat was reportedly carrying about 30 passengers. The dead were identified as Narbiah Umanielo, 38, Wa Mihi Buton, 46, Wa Ramu, 40, Siani Buton, 2, and Harsono, 1.

Liver disease: Education key to better life quality

Liver disease: Education key to better life quality The Asia-Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) has concluded its 15th conference with a number of breakthrough treatments and updates on liver-related diseases being discussed. The Jakarta Post's Emmy Fitri, invited by PT Roche Indonesia, participated in the four-day conference held in Nusa Dua, Bali from Aug. 18 through Aug. 21.

Acehnese children learn to forgive, forget

Acehnese children learn to forgive, forget Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh Nur Fatah, a teenage boy from Peureulak, East Aceh, lost his father, Hanafiah, and two of his elder brothers during a battle in April 2003, and he immediately resolved to seek revenge. "My father was a guerrilla. He suffered from malaria and badly needed medicine.

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Aug.24, 2005

Stock prices on the Jakarta Stock Exchange (in rupiah) on Aug.24, 2005 ____________________________________________________________________________ Shares Close Change Trading Volume _____________________________________________________________________________ Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 1,380 -130 28,000 Adhi Karya 520 -50 17,215,500 Adira Dinamika 2,125 -75 1,280,000 AGIS Tbk 85 -5 835,000 Akbar Indo Makmur 250 -5 20,000 AKR Corporindo Tbk 1,230 -20 1,248,500 Alakasa Industrindo...

House does not perform: Watchdog

House does not perform: Watchdog Ridwan Max Sijabat, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Independent legislative watchdog Teliti said the House of Representatives continued to disappoint despite being filled with younger and better educated members. The watchdog said legislators continued to focus on the interests of their respective political parties rather than of the people. It also said many lawmakers were distracted from their work in the House because they moonlighted.

Minangkabau Airport gets new paintings

Minangkabau Airport gets new paintings PADANG, West Sumatra: Eight West Sumatra painters on Wednesday handed over 14 paintings to the West Sumatra provincial government to be displayed at the newly built Minangkabau International Airport. The paintings are mostly about Minangkabau nature and culture. The painters donated the paintings in order to beautify the airport and enhance people's appreciation of Minangkabau culture, said Yasrul Sami, one of the painters. -- JP

Ritz-Carlton's Padi celebrates one year

Ritz-Carlton's Padi celebrates one year JIMBARAN: The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Resort & Spa's award winning Thai restaurant, Padi, celebrated its first anniversary with a special wine dinner and series of private and public cooking classes attended by resort guests, the public and a list of influential personalities from various fields of expertise.

1. COMMENTARY -- 1 x 49

1. COMMENTARY -- 1 x 49 Drastic policy measures needed to stop rupiah's free fall 2. TAX: 2 X 28 Draft taxation amendments business-friendly: Kadin 3. PSK: 1 X 30 68 foreign sex workers arrested 4. POLIO: 2 X 28 Region watches closely RI's anti-polio campaign

Thaksin can learn from Indonesia

Thaksin can learn from Indonesia Thang D. Nguyen, Jakarta It may sound like a paradox, but there is a lesson about peace that Prime Minister Thaksin Sinawatra should learn from Indonesia and apply to the conflict in southern Thailand. On Aug. 15, two days before Indonesia's 60th Independence Day, the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) signed a peace agreement in Helsinki.

SBY plants trust fund for retired athletes

SBY plants trust fund for retired athletes The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Badminton star Taufik Hidayat is on top of the world right now, but he can still spare a thought for those athletes struggling to make it once their playing days are over. The first man to hold the Olympic and world crowns concurrently, Taufik was asked about his hopes during a meeting with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday.

Eko Nugroho and his versatile art creations

Eko Nugroho and his versatile art creations Carla Bianpoen, Contributor, Jakarta Events at all levels of life have moved artists throughout time to express themselves in work reflecting the zeitgeist. But perhaps no time in history has seen such free use of media, content and style in artistic expression as today. Amid such hustle and bustle, Eko Nugroho has emerged as an artist whose artistic expression and democratic way of life stand as a unique phenomenon in the world of art.

Hotel uses students with disabilities

Hotel uses students with disabilities NUSA DUA: Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua has searched far and wide to find the best candidate for every staff position. That extends to Sekolah Luar Biasa (schools for the physically challenged), where qualified and dedicated new workers were recently discovered. Four deaf-mute students are employed for the current peak season as daily workers in the food and beverage department.

Students optimistic about passing exam

Students optimistic about passing exam The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Aryanto, 19, a student at the Angkasa private high school in East Jakarta walked smiling toward his motorcycle parked near the entrance to the school, where he had just finished the economics paper on Wednesday, the last day of the national final examination repeats. "Pray for me, please," he asked The Jakarta Post. During the exam, the atmosphere at the school was quiet.

Big fraud case revealed in Papua

Big fraud case revealed in Papua Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura An organization called the Kimani Foundation has been accused of defrauding 1,531 Papua residents out of Rp 765.5 million (US$76,550), making it the largest ever financial fraud case reported in the province. The executive director of the foundation, Wolter W. Oijaitouw has been arrested in the case.

TV Today: Friday, August 26, 2005

TV Today: Friday, August 26, 2005 .TB.30" .90" TVRI .tb .30" .90" 5:00 a.m. Religious Teachings 6:00 News: Berita Pagi 7:00 Cartoon: Hello Kitty 8:30 Music: Asik-Asik 10:30 Religious Teachings 11:00 News: Berita Nusantara 11:30 Koran Recital 1:00 p.m.

Adam Air

Adam Air MOU AGREEMENT: The honorary chairman of Bank Lippo, Mochtar Riady (left) congratulates the executives of domestic airline company Adam Air, Sandra Ang (middle) and A. Dave Laksono after the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU). Under the MOU agreement, signed in Hotel Aryaduta Jakarta on Aug.11, the airline's customers will be able to purchase its tickets through the bank's ATM network, ATM Lippo.

Govt vows to pay attention to welfare of retired athletes,

Govt vows to pay attention to welfare of retired athletes, artists The Jakarta Post Jakarta Badminton star Taufik Hidayat is on top of the world right now, but he can still spare a thought for those athletes struggling to make it once their playing days are over. The first man to hold the Olympic and world crowns concurrently, Taufik was asked about his hopes during a meeting with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday.

Bus drivers, passengers complain about route change along busway line

Bus drivers, passengers complain about route change along busway line Bambang Nurbianto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Getting out of an air-conditioned bus in the center of the city in Karet on Wednesday, Imas Masitoh, 35, thought she was lost. She looked around, trying to find someone who could tell her how to continue her trip to her workplace in the Glodok commercial district, about four kilometers away. "I had been informed that I should take the busway from Karet to Kota.

ITC Depok opens for public

ITC Depok opens for public DEPOK: With only 100 occupied kiosks, the city's latest commercial center, the International Trade Center (ITC) Depok, opened to the public on Wednesday, KompasCyberMedia reported. "We are ready to operate, it is up to the kiosk owners as to when they start opening theirs," said ITC Depok operational manager Liam Ning. On the day of the opening, only several kiosks had opened. The center, located on Depok's main strip Jl.

Malaysia's banking sector my further consolidate

Malaysia's banking sector my further consolidate Agence France-Presse, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia's banking sector may be heading for another round of consolidation after a lull of three years and six banks are potential takeover targets, JP Morgan said in a report. Current conditions are becoming favorable for domestic mergers and acquisitions among banks and some activity is expected within the next six months, the firm said in research report released this week.

Hard-liners confirm church closure in Bandung

Hard-liners confirm church closure in Bandung Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung Respected scholar Azyumardi Azra demanded on Wednesday that the police take action against a grouping of hard-line organizations responsible for closing down over 20 churches in Bandung. "The group has taken the law into their own hands and they have to be punished in line with the law," said Azyumardi, quoted as saying by detik.com news portal.

TV Today: Friday, August 26, 2005

TV Today: Friday, August 26, 2005 .TB.30" .90" TVRI .tb .30" .90" 5:00 a.m. Religious Teachings 6:00 News: Berita Pagi 7:00 Cartoon: Hello Kitty 8:30 Music: Asik-Asik 10:30 Religious Teachings 11:00 News: Berita Nusantara 11:30 Koran Recital 1:00 p.m.

Civil-society and the building of an ASEAN community

Civil-society and the building of an ASEAN community Alexander C. Chandra Jakarta The recent Roundtable Discussion on the Prospects and Challenges in the Building of an ASEAN Community, which was organized by the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), shed light on the importance of civil society in the making of an ASEAN Community.

Premier Oil Natuna Sea BV

Premier Oil Natuna Sea BV FLAG RAISING CEREMONY: Executives and employees of British company Premier Oil Natuna Sea BV, the operator of the offshore Block A oil field in the West Natuna Sea, salute the Indonesian national flag at a flag-raising ceremony at the company's office in Jakarta to commemorate Indonesian independence.

JP/19/MONTY1

JP/19/MONTY1 Getting off the bridge and walking the deck Duncan Graham Contributor/Surabaya If magnetized by books about the latest U.S. management guru's success formula -- probably with chicken soup, cheese or herding cats in the title -- turn the page now; this story is not for you. However, if you'd like to know more about running a successful business in Indonesia using Australian management skills -- read on.

'Fuel subsidy cut may ease traffic'

'Fuel subsidy cut may ease traffic' A steady rise in global oil prices has renewed the debate over the merits of the fuel subsidy here. Experts are largely divided by the issue. The Jakarta Post asked residents for their comments on the subsidy. Oentoro Surya, 53, is a shipping business entrepreneur: I would rather the government quit subsidizing fuel. The system has been in place for too long and now people think it is their right and refuse to pay the market price for fuel.

S. Africa, RI plan energy cooperation

S. Africa, RI plan energy cooperation The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Developing alternative sources of energy will be one of the key areas of cooperation between South Africa and Indonesia following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the two governments earlier this week.

Free education an illusion

Free education an illusion From Kompas The government's statement that free education will be available for all this year remains nothing but an illusion, because in our experience, the residents of Cimanggis, Depok, West Java, are not getting any cost relief for our school-age children. In previous years, children less than six years old could enroll at an elementary school near our homes.

Australia, KL to push for FTA talks

Australia, KL to push for FTA talks SYDNEY, Australia: Australia's trade minister will discuss a proposed free trade deal with Malaysia when he holds talks with senior ministers in Kuala Lumpur this week, he said on Wednesday. "The meeting will provide a timely opportunity to reiterate the importance of a comprehensive and liberalizing agreement that delivers real benefits to the business communities of both countries," Vaile said in a statement.

Malaysia celebrates its 48th Anniversary of Independence

Malaysia celebrates its 48th Anniversary of Independence today. Malaysians all over the world are celebrating this joyous and auspicious occasion with pride and in the spirit of solidarity and unity. This pride and solidarity are indicated in the symbol for this year's commemoration of the Independence.

Sulawesi wants funds for infrastructure

Sulawesi wants funds for infrastructure Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Governors from six provinces on Sulawesi island have called on the government to help them provide infrastructure for businesses and agricultural activities to enable the island to be economically self-sufficient.

Papuan leader back behind bars

Papuan leader back behind bars Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura Yusak Pakage, a Papuan leader sentenced to 10 years in jail for treason, escaped a Jayapura jail on Wednesday, but was recaptured a few hours later. The 26-year-old Yusak left his cell at 6.30 a.m. in order to fetch a book from his house, which is located some 200 meters from the prison.

Free education an illusion

Free education an illusion From Kompas The government's statement that free education will be available for all this year remains nothing but an illusion, because in our experience, the residents of Cimanggis, Depok, West Java, are not getting any cost relief for our school-age children. In previous years, children less than six years old could enroll at an elementary school near our homes.

Bina Nusantara offers world-class education

Bina Nusantara offers world-class education The Jakarta Post, Jakarta With the aim of improving the country's human capital, the Bina Nusantara University relaunched its international undergraduate program on Wednesday. "We have made several changes to the curriculum and are providing more subject choice," said BiNus International's executive director Firdaus Alamsjah.

House asks for amnesty guidelines

House asks for amnesty guidelines Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta House of Representatives lawmakers urged the government on Wednesday to award amnesty to Aceh separatist rebels in a transparent manner and in accordance with the law.

British invention in Indonesia

British invention in Indonesia Daisaku Ikeda, The Straits Times, Asia News Network/Singapore Sixty years have passed since the end of World War II, which came to a close with Japan's surrender on Aug. 15, 1945. Many of the young men of my generation were incited by Japan's militarist government to march proudly into battle and give their lives. War impressed itself on every aspect of our lives and one incident from that time is still vivid in my mind.

Indramayu police beef up security

Indramayu police beef up security INDRAMAYU, West Java: Indramayu police have beefed up security in the area starting on Wednesday with the Indramayu regency election drawing near. At least 567 police personnel had been put on alerted and told to be vigilant in order to help secure the regency in the run up to the Sept. 22 election, which will be contested by three pairs of candidates. In order to ensure security, Chief of Indramayu police Adj. Sr. Comr.

RI, Australia meet on illegal fishing

RI, Australia meet on illegal fishing JAKARTA: The Indonesian and Australian governments opened a high-level bilateral fisheries meeting here on Wednesday to advance cooperation on the common challenge of illegal fishing. "Both countries are affected by illegal foreign fishing," a statement from the Australian Embassy said. The three-day meeting was opened by Indonesian Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Freddy Numberi and Australian Ambassador to Indonesia David Ritchie.

68 foreign sex workers arrested

68 foreign sex workers arrested Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Sixty-eight foreign sex workers were apprehended in raids on a number of nightclubs, saunas and beauty salons here on Tuesday evening, police said on Wednesday. City police spokesman Sr. Comr. Tjiptono said that all of the foreigners had misused their visas by working as sex workers in the country. Some of them were holding expired visas.

Ritz-Carlton's Padi celebrates one year

Ritz-Carlton's Padi celebrates one year JIMBARAN: The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Resort & Spa's award winning Thai restaurant, Padi, celebrated its first anniversary with a special wine dinner and series of private and public cooking classes attended by resort guests, the public and a list of influential personalities from various fields of expertise.

Korean firm bemoans govt's new policy

Korean firm bemoans govt's new policy As a Korean company engaged in yarn spinning, PT Hanil Indonesia was set up in 1992 with a US$70 million investment in Boyolali, Central Java. With a capacity of 64,800 spindles, our firm employs 2,000 workers and exports 90 percent of its products, and reserves 10 percent for domestic supply. Despite the various difficulties so far, we have managed to survive thanks to the support of the Indonesian government and local community.

[b]

Western ignorance and Muslim mayhem Achsin el-qudsy Jakarta 2. Thang -- Thaksin can learn a lesson from Indonesia about peace 1 x 30 Thaksin can learn from Indonesia Thang D. Nguyen Jakarta

Capacity of renewable energy power plants to be increased

Capacity of renewable energy power plants to be increased Leony Aurora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government will soon embark on a project to increase the maximum capacity of renewable energy power plants that can sell electricity to state power firm PLN without tender to 10 megawatts (MW) from the current 1 MW, an official says.

Powerless Council

Powerless Council It began on a high note. When the third amendment was made to the 1945 Constitution, the bicameral political system was adopted through the introduction of the Regional Representatives Council (DPD) in addition to the House of Representatives. It was imagined at that time that a system would be introduced similar to the United States, where people are represented by the House of Representatives and the Senate.

1. Rupiah -- 1x30

1. Rupiah -- 1x30 SBY takes no action as rupiah dips or Govt unconcerned as rupiah dips 2. Amnesty - 1x32 House wants clarity over GAM amnesty or House asks for amnesty guidelines 3. Myanmar - 1x32 Myanmar coup rumor inflates prices or Myanmar coup rumor affects market 4. SBY ----- 2x18 Govt plans trust fund for retired athletes

Malaysian students want longer visas

Malaysian students want longer visas BANDUNG: Malaysians find it difficult to study in Indonesia as they are issued only 12-month student visas, an overseas student service foundation executive says. Firdaus Ali, who runs the Widia Humaniora foundation, said around 2,100 Malaysian students had to renew their visas every year. He suggested that the Indonesian government issue them student visas for the duration of their studies.

City prepares for next round of polio vaccination

City prepares for next round of polio vaccination Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta In line with the nationwide polio vaccination drive, the Jakarta administration vowed it would improve on its past performance in reaching out to the public in the next round to be held on Aug. 30 and Sept. 27.

Indonesia may buy two LNG cargoes from Oman

Indonesia may buy two LNG cargoes from Oman Leony Aurora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesia is looking at buying two cargoes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Oman to meet export commitments and swap supplies to be used by fertilizer plants in Aceh.

Central bank intervention needed

Central bank intervention needed With economic growth of over 6 percent and a budget deficit of (in the worst case) only 1 percent in 2005, Indonesia's macroeconomic picture appears very good. In view of this, I find the ongoing pressure on the currency difficult to understand. Further, Indonesia is less dependent on oil imports than all other Asian countries with the exception of Brunei. Yet the currencies of these other countries remain firm against the dollar.

Croatian ship owner to take RI to court

Croatian ship owner to take RI to court The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The owner of a Croatian-flagged cargo ship threatened to take the Indonesian government to an international maritime court a day after the Indonesian Navy stormed the vessel and detained 17 crew members at gunpoint. "We will file a suit with the (International) Maritime Court," said Agoes Salim Dunda, a representative of the owners of the log carrier, the MV Mirna Rijeka in Jakarta.

Blue Bird style of business

Blue Bird style of business Earlier this month a Blue Bird taxi smashed into the rear end of my car while it was stationary at an intersection. In a city like Jakarta, relatively small collisions of this sort are inevitable and can easily and routinely be dealt with if the parties behave with a degree of honesty; unfortunately that was not the case with Blue Bird. My secretary called the Blue Bird office to sort out the problem.

Rumor of alleged coup in Myanmar inflates prices of gold, dollar

Rumor of alleged coup in Myanmar inflates prices of gold, dollar Aye Aye Win Associated Press/Yangon Rumors of an alleged coup within Myanmar's ruling military junta on Wednesday weakened the country's currency and strengthened the price of gold, local businesspeople said. The rumors that ruling junta chairman Sr. Gen. Than Shwe was deposed by his deputy, Gen.

1. Church -- 48 pts 3 cols 3line (3x13)

1. Church -- 48 pts 3 cols 3line (3x13) Hard-liners confirm church closure in Bandung two weeks through intimidation and acts of vandalism. 2. Anak -- 36 pts 5 cols 1lines (1x35) Acehnese children learn to forgive, forget 3. Aceh -- 36 pts 4 cols 1lines (1x30) Violence mars Aceh peace building 4. Croatia -- 28 pts 1col 4lines (4x10) Croatian ship owner to take RI to court --- 5. Photos, Oddworld and ads

JP/19/MONTY2

JP/19/MONTY2 Containing success at Surabaya's Tanjung Perak port Shortly before he resigned, president Soeharto appointed businessman Tanri Abeng as the first minister for state-owned enterprises -- a job he held when president Habibie took over. The assignment was to privatize or semi-privatize government- held industries and the Surabaya container terminal at Tanjung Perak was on Mr Abeng's list.

Fire razes biggest market in Palu city

Fire razes biggest market in Palu city Ruslan Sangadji, The Jakarta Post, Palu Hundreds of kiosks in Palu's largest market, Pasar Inpres Manonda, were destroyed on Tuesday night in a fire that caused billions of rupiah in damage. No casualties were reported in the incident. The fire, which began at about 9 p.m., razed about 1,600 kiosks.

JP/19/MONTY1

JP/19/MONTY1 Getting off the bridge and walking the deck Duncan Graham Contributor/Surabaya If magnetized by books about the latest U.S. management guru's success formula -- probably with chicken soup, cheese or herding cats in the title -- turn the page now; this story is not for you. However, if you'd like to know more about running a successful business in Indonesia using Australian management skills -- read on.

Draft taxation amendments business-friendly: Kadin

Draft taxation amendments business-friendly: Kadin Rendi A. Witular and Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The recently completed draft revisions of the tax legislation have been hailed as business-friendly as they offer relatively low tax rates while encouraging better compliance among taxpayers. Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) chairman Mohamad S.

Violence mars Aceh peace building

Violence mars Aceh peace building Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A former member of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) was shot dead in the first violence reported since the Aug. 15 peace agreement to end decades of conflict in the province. The incident came amid the military's claim that the security condition in Aceh is improving. West Aceh Police chief Comr.