Quote: These included overlapping permits and regulations issued by the local and central governments, inadequate infrastructure in Bintan and Karimun, bureaucratic delays, lack of security, rampant piracy, harassment by officials, land-rights issues, lack of business incentives and labor problems. "The labor issue is at the top of the list.

As the problems hampering the development of special economic zones (SEZs) in Indonesia remain unresolved, speakers at a discussion forum have urged the government to act quickly as the establishment of similar zones in neighboring countries was proceeding apace. "Quick action is needed due to the increasing competition from other SEZs and the availability of alternative investment destinations," Singapore Chamber of Commerce secretary Mark K. Y. Wong told the discussion on SEZs Wednesday.

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Former Singaporean prime minister Lee Kuan Yew said what Indonesia needed to do to increae investment was to issue clear legal rules and cultivate investors` confidence. "What investors need in Indonesia is legal certainty for agreements that have been concluded," Lee said at a joint press conference with Vice President Jusuf Kalla at the latter`s office here on Wednesday.