Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 September 2004

86 articles found

Navy warns of imminent disputes over 12 remote islands

Navy warns of imminent disputes over 12 remote islands Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Navy warned on Wednesday that Indonesia could become embroiled in new disputes with neighboring countries over a number of islands located in border areas if it did not take adequate measures to assert its sovereignty. In a speech to a seminar here, Navy Chief of Staff Adm. Bernard Kent Sondakh said the Navy was paying special attention to at least 12 islands located close to neighboring countries.

Concept cars grabs attention at show

Concept cars grabs attention at show Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A major motor show would not be complete without the presence of concept vehicles, as they display a car maker's cutting-edge technology and continuous effort to lead the industry, as well as function as a good PR tool. The second Jakarta Motor Show and Motorcycle Show have a handful of concept vehicles, although participants have said that they will use the shows primarily to boost sales.

VW Golf puts safety first

VW Golf puts safety first Primastuti Handayani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Wenda Wonoseputro has a cautionary tale for those who are thinking of buying a new car. "A noted businessman, who is a friend of mine, still regrets his choice of car. He was paralyzed permanently in an accident and has to run his business from his wheelchair.

No room at the inn for weekenders, 3,000 more beds needed in Bandung

No room at the inn for weekenders, 3,000 more beds needed in Bandung Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung Surya was confused. He had been hours looking for a hotel room nearby Bandung's Station Hall area, where the main railway station in the city is located, but his efforts had been unfruitful. All of the hotels he could find were already fully booked or occupied. It was a cool 9 p.m. on Saturday evening, and he began considering the prospect of sleeping in a mosque.

Post of TNI chief should not be filled by Army only: House

Post of TNI chief should not be filled by Army only: House Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta In order to ensure fairness within the Indonesian Military (TNI) forces, several factions in the House of Representatives proposed on Wednesday that the TNI chief's position should be alternated regularly between the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Global challenges to RI education

Global challenges to RI education From Suara Karya Indonesia is facing a major problem in education, with its high dropout rate, widespread cases of damaged schools and, reportedly, millions of illiterate children. This gloomy picture is worsened by corruption in the education sector and illegal enrolment fees charged by state schools, so that only those children from the high income bracket can enjoy proper schooling.

Library offers alternative pastime

Library offers alternative pastime Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta As part of World Literacy Day which fell on Sept. 8, The Jakarta Post's Evi Mariani has been investigating library facilities in the city. Today, we take a look at libraries of two prominent research centers. People who prefer to read rather than go to a mall or an entertainment center on the weekend can visit the Freedom Institute Library on Jl. Irian, Central Jakarta.

Commission could be 'whitewash machine'

Commission could be 'whitewash machine' Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Attempts to heal the wounds of those victimized by large scale human rights violations in the past should be the priority of the truth and reconciliation commission, which is due to be set up next year, activists said.

Jauhari sprints to 5,000m victory

Jauhari sprints to 5,000m victory Moch N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Palembang Jauhari Johan won the men's 5,000 meters as the South Sumatra team doubled its pleasure on the third day of the track and field competition at the National Games here on Wednesday. Jauhari won the race in 14:58.69, which was his second gold following his victory in the 10,000 meters on Monday. Musiamin of East Java finished in second in 14:59.33, followed by Agus Prayono of Central Java in 15:08.48.

Legislators echo concerns over domestic violence bill

Legislators echo concerns over domestic violence bill Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Several legislators on Wednesday backed women activists' criticism of the domestic violence bill for not setting out minimum penalties for violators. Without the stipulation of minimum sentences in the bill, currently being deliberated at the House of Representatives, it could help violators evade justice, they argued.

Rupiah may strengthen after polls: BI

Rupiah may strengthen after polls: BI Rendi A. Witular, Jakarta The central bank expects the rupiah to strengthen after the presidential election runoff, saying that the forming of a new government should eliminate political uncertainty and lure new foreign investment.

'Jakartans should have at least two cars'

'Jakartans should have at least two cars' Jakarta already homes 1.3 million passenger cars. With an estimated increase of 138 units per day, vehicles in the capital have been forced to move at a snail's pace, particularly during peak hours. Although there is a demand for new car quotas, car manufacturers are still launching new models and people keep buying new cars. The Jakarta Post talked to some people about the issue.

Motorcycle wash brings hope to Kampung Bali

Motorcycle wash brings hope to Kampung Bali Leony Aurora , The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Five motorcycles were parked behind the wooden fence encircling Pelita Ilmu Foundation (YPI) in Kampung Bali, Central Jakarta, while two young men vigorously cleaned a Yamaha Jupiter, spraying water and wiping it off with a sponge for a tip-top shine.

Activist par excellence

Activist par excellence Munir's life and career exemplify that of a man who answers his calling to the end. The diminutive rights activist championed a great cause during an extremely difficult period in Indonesian history. The 39-year-old confided recently to a friend that he was "exhausted" with the endless demands on his energy that came with endless rights violations.

Foreign leaders, royals arrive for Brunei wedding

Foreign leaders, royals arrive for Brunei wedding Agence France-Presse, Bandar Seri Begawan Southeast Asian leaders and an array of royals from around the world began arriving in Brunei on Wednesday for the wedding of the heir to the oil-rich sultanate's throne.

Breaking free with the new Ford Escape 2.3 L

Breaking free with the new Ford Escape 2.3 L Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta It was a hot, sunny day when I drove the new Ford Escape 2.3L out of the Indomobil compound in Cawang, East Jakarta, for a test drive offered by PT Ford Motor Indonesia for a couple of days. The Ford Escape's air-conditioning system has been improved, so cool air quickly filled the cabin as soon as I turned on the air-con. Nice start.

Western hotels potential terror targets in RI: U.S.

Western hotels potential terror targets in RI: U.S. P. Parameswaran, Agence France-Presse, Washington Western hotels are potential targets of terrorist attacks in Indonesia ahead of the third anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 mayhem, the United States said in an updated travel alert on Tuesday (Wednesday in Jakarta). It reminded citizens to defer non-essential travel to the Southeast Asian archipelago.

Shares Close Change Volume

Shares Close Change Volume Astra Agro Lestari 2,500 0 3,711,500 Abdi Bangsa Tbk 275 0 0 Asuransi Bina Dana 450 20 500 Andhi Chandra 465 0 0 Ades Alfindo Tbk 3,000 0 0 Adhi Karya 450 35 117,978,500 Adira Dinamika 2,600 0 0 GT Petrochem 330 -10 1,506,000 Asuransi Harta Aman 75 0 362,500 Akbar Indo Makmur 85 5 2,500 Tiga Pilar 125 0 0 Argha Karya Prima 550 0 0 Aneka Kimia Raya 1,925 0 495,500 Asia Kapitalindo 270 0 5,500 Alter Abadi Tbk 35 0 0 Alfa Retailindo Tbk 950 25 305,000 Alakasa Industrindo...

Election commission set to hold presidential dialog

Election commission set to hold presidential dialog M. Taufiqurrahman, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta It's confirmed: President Megawati Soekarnoputri and her rival Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will not even be in the same room during the pre-rehearsed dialogs that are to substitute for a candidates' debate ahead of the presidential election runoff. During the dialog sessions on the evenings of Sept. 14 and Sept.

Islam resurgence 'won't turn RI Muslims into radicals'

Islam resurgence 'won't turn RI Muslims into radicals' Veeramalla Anjaiah, The Jakarta Post, Paris The resurgence of Islam in Southeast Asia will not turn Indonesian Muslims, the majority of whom are moderate, into radicals, said a renowned Indonesian Islamic scholar at a conference in Paris last week. "Indonesian Muslims are moderate people and would remain moderate in the future," Prof.

Taufik to face Simon in badminton final match

Taufik to face Simon in badminton final match Eva C. Komandjaja, The Jakarta Post, Palembang Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat finally seems to be hitting his stride. After losing twice in the team matches, On Wednesday defeated North Sumatra's Wimpie Mahardi in the men's singles semifinals at the Dempo Badminton Hall. It was revenge for Taufik, who lost 11-15, 15-17 to Wimpie in the opening round of the team event last week.

Police HQ to have 23-story building

Police HQ to have 23-story building JAKARTA: The Jakarta Police Headquarters will have a new Rp 660.1 billion (US$71.19 million) building constructed in its compound on Jl. Sudirman, South Jakarta. The 23-story building will house the newly inaugurated counterterror detachment (Den88). The squad, led by Adj. Sr. Comr. Tito Karnavian, comprises a crime squad, an intelligence team and an investigative team. City police chief Insp. Gen.

Military command dismisses 39 soldiers

Military command dismisses 39 soldiers BALIKPAPAN, East Kalimantan: Chief of Tanjungpura Military Command overseeing East Kalimantan province discharged on Wednesday 39 soldiers under his command. Three were discharged due to drug problems, 35 were deserters and one due to a sex scandal. Although they have been discharged, some will still receive administrative sanctions, while others will be prosecuted in military courts, depending on their roles in respective cases.

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;JP;ABDUL;CD; ANPAa..r.. Export-ban-fish EU lifts bans on RI fish exporters JP/13/fish Abdul Khalik The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Rokhmin Dahuri announced on Wednesday that the European Union (EU) had lifted bans on 13 of the 16 tuna exporter companies previously forbidden to export fish to the region.

Complainant protests halt of Coke probe

Complainant protests halt of Coke probe Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Jakarta Police have decided to drop the investigation into the complaint filed by Japanese Takasu Masaharu against Coca Cola due to lack of evidence. Masaharu, however, has opposed the decision. He sent a letter to the National Police through his lawyer on Tuesday, asking for legal certainty, as they had found irregularities in the decision.

Astra to refinance $240 million debt

Astra to refinance $240 million debt JAKARTA: PT Astra International, Indonesia's largest car maker, is seeking a syndicated bank loan to refinance its US$240 million debt. "We are looking for a loan that carries a lower interest rate to refinance the debt," Astra Finance Director John Slack told Dow Jones on Wednesday. Slack expected Astra to strike a loan deal with several foreign banks and creditors by October.

ASEAN way of integration

ASEAN way of integration Given past experiences with ASEAN's wayward approach to the process of economic integration, we tend to welcome with qualifications the bold decision of the 36th ASEAN Economic Ministers meeting here last week to speed up the move towards a single economic community.

Shooters shatter national records

Shooters shatter national records Moch.N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Palembang South Sumatra shooter Ridwan Gunawan and the Central Java team set new records in taking their golds at the National Games' shooting competition here on Wednesday. Ridwan won gold in the individual free rifle 3 x 40 with a total score of 1206.6. He broke the national record of 1203.6 set by Sukarno at the 2004 national championships, which also served as the qualifying tournament for the current games.

Husband, wife die in family dispute

Husband, wife die in family dispute MUSI RAWAS, South Sumatra: A couple died on Sunday in a coffee plantation in Taba Renah subdistrict, Musi Rawas regency here. Susilawati, the head of Taba Renah subdistrict, reported on Wednesday that the tragic incident began after the two were locked in war or words. Following the heated argument, the husband, Syamsuri, 30, killed his wife Baina, 30, but he later committed suicide by hanging himself from a tree near his house.

Free ARV drugs available at community health centers

Free ARV drugs available at community health centers Dewi Santoso, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta People living with HIV/AIDS in Indonesia would probably never have imagined they would be able to obtain antiretroviral (ARV) drugs at a community health center, that is, not until the government launched a pilot project in Kampung Bali area in Central Jakarta recently. "I'm lucky to have access to ARV. It's like a dream come true.

Risks at high altitude

Risks at high altitude The reason for the sudden death of rights campaigner Munir onboard a Garuda flight to the Netherlands will be disclosed only after an autopsy is performed on his remains. According to two Indonesian doctors, people in general have run the risk of heart attacks and respiratory problems when flying due to lower oxygen pressure. A doctor at the Air Force's Saryanto Aviation Health Institute, Col.

Sutrisno breaks world mark in Palembang

Sutrisno breaks world mark in Palembang Eva C. Komandjaja and Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Palembang While the track and field venue has seen some less than enthralling performances in terms of international standards, Sutrisno, a powerlifter broke a world record on Wednesday. Sutrisno managed a total lift of 725 kilograms in the men's 60-kilogram category to win a gold for Lampung. His lift broke his own world record of 715 kilograms, set in South Korea in 2002.

Depok councillors questioned

Depok councillors questioned JAKARTA: Jakarta Police questioned for the second time four former Depok councillors and two councillors, who were just sworn in, and a secretary at the council office on Wednesday over their alleged involvement in a graft case that caused some Rp 9 billion (US$970,612) in losses to the state. City Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Tjiptono said the questioning was focused on the details of the use of the money allocated for the council secretariat.

Diza a Makassar 'soccer mother'

Diza a Makassar 'soccer mother' Andi Hajramurti, The Jakarta Post, Makassar Soccer is generally considered a male pursuit, with few women taking an interest in the sport. For fashion designer Diza Ali, however, soccer has kept her spirit alive. "These two areas (fashion design and soccer) have allowed by spirit and creativity to thrive," said Diza -- Siti Diza Rasyid Ali -- when The Jakarta Post met her recently at Kerebosi Soccer Field in Makassar.

JP/5/PIJAT

JP/5/PIJAT Massage business thrives in Batam Fadli The Jakarta Post/Batam Many people are prepared to travel halfway across Jakarta, battling heavy traffic for an hour's massage with a skilled therapist, and, finally, the chance to relax. On Batam, however, Balinese and Thai massage, as well as reflexology, centers are easy to find, with 40 centers catering for a population of 560,000. Most massage centers on Batam employ 10 to 30 therapists.

Medal Tally

Medal Tally The medal table on seventh day of the 16th National Games (PON) in Palembang on Wednesday (as of 8.45): 1 Jakarta 75 64 58 197 2 W. Java 50 36 42 128 3 C. Java 37 35 37 109 4 E. Java 34 41 65 140 5 S. Sumatra 22 26 22 70 6 Jambi 20 18 10 48 7 N. Sumatra 17 11 12 40 8 Riau 11 11 10 32 9 Papua 8 9 8 25 10 Lampung 7 10 11 28 11 E. Kalimantan 6 16 21 43 12 N. Sulawesi 6 6 5 17 13 Banten 6 4 21 31 14 S. Kalimantan 4 4 6 14 15 SE. Sulawesi 4 4 2 10 16 W. Sumatra 4 2 10 16 17 W.

City councillors expected to get pay increase

City councillors expected to get pay increase The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The city administration is likely to allocate more funds from its budget following the issuance of Government Regulation No. 24/2004 on positions, salaries and benefits that requires the administration to pay higher salaries for the new councillors. Article 11 of the regulation stipulates that the base salary for the council chairman shall be equal to a provincial governor's monthly salary.

25 percent of schools in W. Java damaged

25 percent of schools in W. Java damaged INDRAMAYU, West Java: Almost twenty-five percent of school buildings are damaged in Indramayu regency, West Java province, it was reported recently. Almost 200 elementary school buildings, or some 25 percent of the total 869 school buildings in the regency, are on the brink of collapse due to old age and damage due to natural disasters, an official said on Wednesday.

Regions need more money to abolish 'nuisance' taxes

Regions need more money to abolish 'nuisance' taxes Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government must quickly seek solutions to the problems caused by the implementation of local autonomy, must of which are caused by the reluctance of the central government to delegate its powers to the regions, a number of experts have said. Speaking during a seminar on local autonomy here on Wednesday, economist Robert A.

Schools in Jambi close due to choking haze

Schools in Jambi close due to choking haze Jon Afrizal, The Jakarta Post, Jambi The haze in Jambi and Central Kalimantan provinces worsened on Wednesday, prompting local authorities, particularly in Jambi province, to close several schools. Haze continued to disrupt flights throughout the day and residents in both provinces had difficulty breathing.

Honda to set up 3rd motorcycle plant in Bekasi

Honda to set up 3rd motorcycle plant in Bekasi Zakki P. Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Japan's Honda Motor Co. Ltd. will set up a third motorcycle manufacturing plant in Indonesia in a joint venture with PT Astra International to take advantage of the growing motorcycle market in Indonesia, the world's third largest market, the company announced on Wednesday.

Commission I asked to give input

Commission I asked to give input JAKARTA: The House of Representatives Commission II on legal and domestic affairs has requested input from colleagues from Commission I on political and international affairs regarding the bill on immigration the former is deliberating. "We have sent a copy of the immigration bill to Commission I and we expect input," the Commission II chairman Teras Narang said on Wednesday.

Dropping of mangrove case meets with protest

Dropping of mangrove case meets with protest Damar Harsanto , The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After returning the case files on the illegal felling of 240 mangrove trees in protected forest on the Prof. Dr. Sedyatmo toll road, North Jakarta, for three times to the Jakarta Police, the Jakarta Prosecutor's Office is ready to drop the case. However, the plan received strong opposition from both Governor Sutiyoso and green activists.

RP may shorten SEAG amid financial woes

RP may shorten SEAG amid financial woes Associated Press, Manila, Philippines Next year's Southeast Asian Games could be shortened to help ease the Philippines' financial burden, but the event is in no danger of collapse, an official was quoted Wednesday as saying. "Definitely, there's no cancellation," Roberto Pagdanganan, chairman of the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee, told the Manila Bulletin daily.

China's rise shifts balance of power in Asia

China's rise shifts balance of power in Asia Michael Richardson, The Straits Times, Asia News Network, Singapore As China's growing power and influence permeate Asia and the Pacific, countries in the region are recalibrating their relations with Beijing to acknowledge its status and defuse potential conflict.

Panwaslu to probe campaign violation

Panwaslu to probe campaign violation BANDUNG: Garut Regency Election Supervisory Committee (Panwaslu) is probing an alleged electoral violation, following a campaign rally held by Megawati's campaign team on Wednesday in Garut regency.

KPU proposes extra budget

KPU proposes extra budget JAKARTA: Although its budget proposal for organizing the runoff election has not yet been approved by the House of Representatives, the General Elections Commission (KPU) proposed on Wednesday Rp 803 billion in an additional budget to fund its operational costs in 2005.

Condolences pour in for Munir's family

Condolences pour in for Munir's family Tiarma Siboro and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Condolences poured in on Wednesday for the family and relatives of top human rights campaigner Munir who died on board a Garuda flight to Amsterdam, while the precise cause of his death remained a mystery. "We have lost one of the most persistent fighters for democracy, someone who never stopped struggling for what he believed was true.

OPEC head says "politics" adding 10-15 dollars a barrel to oil price

OPEC head says "politics" adding 10-15 dollars a barrel to oil price Associated Press Sydney OPEC president Purnomo Yusgiantoro blamed a "political premium" of US$10-$15 a barrel for soaring oil prices Wednesday, saying the oil cartel is exceeding its supply quotas but the market is not responding. Purnomo said OPEC was concerned about the high oil prices but exceptional circumstances restricted its room to maneuver on the issue.

Government provides training for widows

Government provides training for widows BANDA ACEH, Aceh: The Aceh provincial government has began vocational training and psychological counseling for 80 widows, victims of the prolonged war in the troubled province. The program began several days ago. The widows came from Nagan Raya, Southeast Aceh, East Aceh and North Aceh regencies, said Yusran, a government official coordinating the training.

Maryono sets new national record

Maryono sets new national record Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Palembang Maryono of West Kalimantan set a new national record on Wednesday in the men's 52 kilogram powerlifting competition at the National Games, which gave him a gold medal on the opening day of the powerlifting competition on Wednesday. He lifted a total of 612.5 kilograms, which was enough to set a new national record. The previous record was 585.5 kilograms, set by Rohman S. of West Java in 1996 in Jakarta.

Authorities to blame for plight of migrant workers

Authorities to blame for plight of migrant workers The Malaysian government has again deported Indonesian illegal workers, which has added to the unemployment issues here. The Jakarta Post's Medan correspondent, Apriadi Gunawan, spoke with Arif Nasution, who has written several books on migrant workers such as Orang Indonesia di Malaysia: Menjual Kemiskinan, Membangun Identitas (Indonesians in Malaysia: Selling poverty, establishing identity), to discuss the issue.

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, September 9, 2004

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, September 9, 2004 .TB.30" 1.0" Festival Nusa Dua Festival, organized by The Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC), at Nusa Dua Resort, until Sept. 16. Sept. 9: Children's Gong Kebyar, 7 p.m., traditional dances, 8:30 p.m. Sept. 10: traditional dances, 7:30 p.m., kolintang-angklung orchestra, 8:30 p.m. Sept. 11: Arja Remaja Keramas traditional performance, 7 p.m., Cahya Artsyuka comtemporary dances and music, 8 p.m., group band Batuan Etnic Fusion, 9 p.m.

Elections in Indonesia

Elections in Indonesia With the final round of the presidential election around the corner, it is perhaps the right time to compare the pros and cons of two methods employed in electing the CEO of a country: A "direct" election -- as is practiced in the U.S. and France and some other countries -- and the indirect method -- as practiced by Great Britain and India -- wherein the members of parliament choose the CEO.

'Politics' behind high oil: OPEC head

'Politics' behind high oil: OPEC head Associated Press, Sydney OPEC president Purnomo Yusgiantoro blamed a "political premium" of US$10-$15 a barrel for soaring oil prices on Wednesday, saying the oil cartel is exceeding its supply quotas but the market is not responding. Purnomo said OPEC was concerned about the high oil prices but exceptional circumstances restricted its room to maneuver on the issue.

Immigrants in KL end hunger strike

Immigrants in KL end hunger strike MALAYSIA: More than 100 illegal immigrants, many of them thought to be asylum seekers from Indonesia and Myanmar, have ended a hunger strike begun two days ago at a Malaysian detention camp, a United Nations (UN) refugee official said on Wednesday. "It was stopped at noon today," Volker Turk, Malaysia representative for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), told Reuters.

Bomb conspirator gets 3 years, five less than sought by prosecutor

Bomb conspirator gets 3 years, five less than sought by prosecutor Puji Santoso, The Jakarta Post, Pekanbaru A defendant accused of assisting the perpetrators of the Pekanbaru Christmas Eve 2000 bombings has been sentenced to three years in prison, five years less than requested by the prosecution. In the verdict of the Pekanbaru District Court, which was delivered by presiding judge Jahrul Rabiah in the Women's Hall on Jl.

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, September 9, 2004

Where to go in Bali for Thursday, September 9, 2004 .TB.30" 1.0" Festival Nusa Dua Festival, organized by The Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC), at Nusa Dua Resort, until Sept. 16. Sept. 9: Children's Gong Kebyar, 7 p.m., traditional dances, 8:30 p.m. Sept. 10: traditional dances, 7:30 p.m., kolintang-angklung orchestra, 8:30 p.m. Sept. 11: Arja Remaja Keramas traditional performance, 7 p.m., Cahya Artsyuka comtemporary dances and music, 8 p.m., group band Batuan Etnic Fusion, 9 p.m.

HSBC plans $300m 'syariah' loan

HSBC plans $300m 'syariah' loan The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) plans to arrange a US$300 million financing facility for a local company through the syariah arrangement in a bid to develop the syariah investment in the country.

Secret of power transfer dies with former chief M. Jusuf

Secret of power transfer dies with former chief M. Jusuf Andi Hajramurni, The Jakarta Post, Makassar Another former military chief, Gen. (ret) Andi Mohamad Jusuf, died on Wednesday, just a week after the death of Gen.(ret) L. Benny Moerdani on Aug. 29. Jusuf, who led the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI) between 1978 and 1983 and who won wide popularity with his troops, died on Wednesday night of natural causes at his home on Jl. Pangka in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi.

Aceh gold medalist Habli hopes for permanent job

Aceh gold medalist Habli hopes for permanent job Moch. N. Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Palembang For Habli, winning the gold in fencing for Aceh at the ongoing National Games (PON) is an honor -- and for Aceh, it is the shiniest, most gleaming medal, given that it is the only gold the province has won to date at the quadrennial sporting spectacle. Aceh could have been deprived of Habli's gold if the 32-year- old fencer had taken the offer to play for another province.

No second round in regional elections

No second round in regional elections JAKARTA: Unlike the presidential election, the election of governors, mayors, or regents will last only one round, with candidates who garner the simple majority emerging as the winners. Minister of Home Affairs Hari Sabarno and the House of Representatives Commission II on home affairs agreed on Wednesday to the option. "Our concern is the simple majority system will minimize the spending and maintain security," the commission chairman Teras Narang said.

RI shares end higher on late blue-chips buying

RI shares end higher on late blue-chips buying Dow Jones, Jakarta Indonesian shares ended higher on Wednesday on late buying in cement blue chips and small-capitalized stocks reversing earlier losses, dealers said. "Foreign investors' late buying helped lift the main index," said a trader with Paramitra Securities. Overall sentiment, however, remained cautious as local retail investors continued to take profit in select blue chips that gained on Tuesday.

Get the devil out of TV

Get the devil out of TV From Republika While many people in our community are busy commenting on the teenage film Kiss Me Quick, I am more interested in commenting on our television programs. It is obvious to TV viewers that many, if not most, of our TV programs include scenes featuring ghosts. Some TV stations even have special programs dedicated to ghosts and supernatural beings. Unfortunately, our community leaders do not seem concerned by this phenomenon.

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;DJ; ANPAf..r.. Market-Shares Indonesian Shares End Higher On Late Buying In Blue Chips JP/14/Market Shares end higher on late buying in blue chips Dow Jones Jakarta Indonesian shares ended higher on Wednesday on late buying in cement blue chips and small-capitalized stocks reversing earlier losses, dealers said. "Foreign investors' late buying helped lift the main index," said a trader with Paramitra Securities.

Police quizzed for assaulting soldier

Police quizzed for assaulting soldier JAKARTA: Six police officers are being interrogated for allegedly assaulting an Army soldier in Sunter Agung, North Jakarta, on Tuesday night. Jakarta Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Tjiptono said on Wednesday that internal affairs were seeking further information on the incident. The six officers -- whose identities are still being withheld -- were on duty to monitor fuel distribution in Greater Jakarta.

Embassies sheltering 1,100 workers

Embassies sheltering 1,100 workers Sari P. Setiogi and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesian representative offices in several foreign countries are sheltering 1,138 migrant workers with a variety of problems, many of which have not been addressed.

EU lifts bans on RI fish exporters

EU lifts bans on RI fish exporters Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Rokhmin Dahuri announced on Wednesday that the European Union (EU) had lifted bans on 13 of the 16 tuna exporter companies previously forbidden to export fish to the region.

*KPU arranges televised dialog for candidates Page 2

*KPU arranges televised dialog for candidates Page 2 *House factions want TNI chief post to alternate Page 4 *Schools in Jambi closed due to choking haze Page 5 *Should Indonesia's mutual funds be taxed? Page 7 *Japanese protests termination of cola investigation Page 8 *Typhoon Songda lashes north Japan, 24 killed Page 9 *Capriati, Dementieva star on day of drama Page 11 *Cemex agrees to government buy-back Page 13 *Lecturers refer to tradition in modern works Page 19

Guard arrested for sexual assault

Guard arrested for sexual assault JAKARTA: Police arrested a security guard of a company in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, for allegedly sexually assaulting six girls, aged between six and eight years old. City Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Tjiptono said on Wednesday the incident was reported to have taken place at the company's compound on Jl. Adhityawarman on Aug. 15. Two of the six girls were allegedly raped by the guard, identified only as AH, while four others were molested.

Police chief put in the dock by NTT religious leaders

Police chief put in the dock by NTT religious leaders Yemris Fointuna, The Jakarta Post, Kupang A number of religious leaders descended upon the East Nusa Tenggara legislative council building on Wednesday, demanding that a newly appointed police chief be dismissed for allegedly backing illegal practices. North Timur Tengah Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr.

Flowers, fruit to color 2004 Nusa Dua Festival

Flowers, fruit to color 2004 Nusa Dua Festival Wahyoe Boedhiwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Nusa Dua The Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC) is holding its annual Nusa Dua Festival, this year with the special theme Udiana Lelanguan, which literally means entertainment park. The festival is to feature a number of attractions such as traditional dances, karawitan vocal performances, dance theater and various other forms of performing arts.

TV Program: Thursday, September 9, 2004

TV Program: Thursday, September 9, 2004 .TB.30" .90" TVRI 6:00 a.m. News: Berita Pagi 7:05 Documentary 7:30 Sport News: Jurnal PON 8:30 Music: Asyik-Asyik 10:00 Talk Show: Wirausaha 11:00 Singing Contest: Konteswara 12:00 p.m.

Online catalog faces technical problem

Online catalog faces technical problem A year ago, four private libraries in Jakarta agreed to develop a joint website where the public could access the catalogs of the four libraries. Up until now, the website, www.pustakabersama.net, remains under construction. "We're having problems merging the catalogs.

Strong sales reported at motor show

Strong sales reported at motor show Novan Iman Santosa , The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Most of the car companies taking part in the second Jakarta Motor Show predicted on Wednesday that they would be able to meet their sales targets by the time the 10-day event ends on Sunday. Contacted separately by The Jakarta Post, some said they expected to surpass the initial sales target by the end of the show on Sunday.

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Why my acquaintance John Kerry can lose W. Scott Thompson Gianyar, Bali 2. Pro9 -- Righting reform 2 x 30 Righting reform, the gap between rules and public perception Dani Rodrik Project Syndicate

Makassar councillors installed after two days of delay

Makassar councillors installed after two days of delay Andi Hajramurni, The Jakarta Post, Makassar The new Makassar municipal legislative council was eventually inaugurated on Wednesday after two days of delay due to protests over a dispute between local election officials and the South Sulawesi administration. Only 41 of the 45 elected Makassar councillors were sworn in after the nominations of the other four were annulled by their parties.

Organizer of alleged pro-Mega quiz questioned

Organizer of alleged pro-Mega quiz questioned The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Padang The Election Supervisory Committee (Panwaslu) questioned on Wednesday an official from a foundation that has been holding a multi-billion rupiah quiz, who acknowledged that the program was deliberately held in the approach toward the September election runoff.

Should Indonesia's mutual funds be taxed?

Should Indonesia's mutual funds be taxed? Martin Jenkins, Jakarta Mutual funds allow the general public easy access to the financial markets. Through these instruments, the man on the street can invest in stocks (in Indonesia's case this means shares in companies listed on the Jakarta Stock Exchange), in government and corporate bonds, as well as money market instruments.

1 head

1 head 1. LECTURE -- (sub heading) 1 x 25 Arts lecturers' exhibition (heading ) 1 x 34 Modern works refer to traditions

Cemex agrees to govt buy-back

Cemex agrees to govt buy-back Rendi A. Witular, Jakarta Mexican cement giant Cemex SA has agreed to the Indonesian government's proposal to reclaim the former's entire stake in publicly listed cement producer PT Semen Gresik (SG) as a way to resolve a protracted investment dispute, a minister said. State Minister of State Enterprises Laksamana Sukardi said the government was currently seeking third party investors to finance the buyback plan since the government did not have sufficient funds.

JP/17/

JP/17/ Concept cars eye-catching at show Novan Iman Santosa The Jakarta Post Jakarta A major motor show would not be complete without the presence of concept vehicles, as they display a car maker's cutting-edge technology and continuous effort to lead the industry, as well as function as a good PR tool. The second Jakarta Motor Show and Motorcycle Show have a handful of concept vehicles, although participants have said that they will use the shows primarily to boost sales.

Robber seizes gold, money

Robber seizes gold, money JAKARTA: A man broke into a house in Bojongsari subdistrict, Jatiasih, Bekasi, on Tuesday evening and forced at knifepoint a resident of the house to hand over her gold jewelry and Rp 400,000 (US$43) in cash. Police said on Wednesday that the robber threatened Aminah with a knife, who was watching TV with her 12-year-old daughter Siti Mariyam in a living room, after he broke into the house through the back door. The robber immediately fled the scene on a motorcycle.

Art lecturers' exhibition: Modern works inspired by traditions

Art lecturers' exhibition: Modern works inspired by traditions Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Magelang, Central Java Rebellious students have long used the comeback, "You don't know it all". Now, 39 art lecturers from Bali are admitting it, as they set out on a quest for knowledge and to market their own work. The group will hold exhibitions along the way, and humbly await input as they open their minds and broaden their palettes, so to speak.

UNDP launches radio campaign

UNDP launches radio campaign JAKARTA: The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and Indonesian government launched on Wednesday a radio campaign to promote Millennium Development Goals and the country's measures to deal with poverty. The program will be broadcasted live by state radio RRI every Monday at 5 p.m. starting from Sept. 27 and private station 68H every Wednesday at 9 a.m. starting from Sept. 15 across the country for three months.

China's help sought over textile woes

China's help sought over textile woes Zakki P. Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is seeking the help of China in restructuring Indonesia's ailing textile industry, a senior official at the Ministry of Industry and Trade said on Wednesday.