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Found 1,274 articles for "topic:13927"

War is a hot topic at schools

War is a hot topic at schools 2. Syria - Will Syria be the next U.S. target? 3. Herald -- Roh's stance on Iraq: 'A national interest'

* War is a hot topic at schools -- Page 6

* War is a hot topic at schools -- Page 6 * Will Syria be the next U.S. target? -- Page 6 * Roh's stance on Iraq: 'A national interest' -- Page 6 * Iraq war: Media must have guidelines for reporters -- Page 7 * Markets sense war's endgame, stocks soar -- Page 14 * Schroeder concerned about economic impact of Iraq war -- Page 16 * World finance officials struggle to bolster economic growth in face of war, uncertainties -- Page 16 * Iraq war damaging environment: Greens -- Page 18

Tarawih at Istiqlal Mosque Set at 20 Rakaat, Minister of Religious Affairs to Deliver First Sermon

Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta will hold its inaugural tarawih prayers for Ramadan 1447 H this evening, with Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar scheduled as the first preacher under the theme "Green Ramadan, Ramadan Together". The mosque has published a full 30-day schedule of preachers, imams, and sermon topics, featuring prominent Islamic scholars and public figures including former Constitutional Court Chief Justice Mahfud MD, with prayers conducted in 20 rakaat plus 3 rakaat of witr.

Debate on rugby

Debate on rugby My congratulations to Mr. Farid Baskoro for his letter (The Jakarta Post,June 7, 1995). After Mr. Baskoro's letter, The Jakarta Post will be obliged to face the hard reaction from active readers. It is the price of being an open-minded and courageous newspaper. Do not worry Mr. Baskoro, most readers will not be bored reading a debate on rugby.

'TPI' should be more professional

'TPI' should be more professional From Suara Karya I was disappointed with the Special Dialog program aired by private television station TPI on March 19. The topic was The Memorandum of the House of Representatives regarding the alleged involvement of the President in money scandals related to Bulog and Sultan Brunei's financial gift.

Additional Power On The Way for Java and Bali, PLN Says

Quoting: Marmalade Who says history can't be re-written? http://jawawa.net/index.php?id=15119&topic=10068

* War is a hot topic at schools -- Page 6

* War is a hot topic at schools -- Page 6 * Will Syria be the next U.S. target? -- Page 6 * Roh's stance on Iraq: 'A national interest' -- Page 6 * Iraq war: Media must have guidelines for reporters -- Page 7 * British troops walk unopposed into Basra -- Page 11 * UN 'legitimacy' needed for post-war Iraq: Annan -- Page 11 * U.S.

Garuda to buy new Boeing aircraft

Garuda it's not a small company. why in your opinion they should stick to the local market? please read again the topic.

Mother and child program

Mother and child program From Jayakarta I am a avid fan of programs on education and information on TV, either on TVRI or private television stations: RCTI, SCTV, TPI and ANteve. Among the programs I like is the Ibu, Bayi dan Balita (Mother, Babies and Children under five years old) program most, that is aired by SCTV on Wednesdays at 8 a.m. I like the program because I have two children under five. The topics that are hosted by Dewi Matindas are usually very interesting.

Council defends meeting in Puncak

Council defends meeting in Puncak JAKARTA (JP): City Council speaker Edy Waluyo denied on Monday reports that city councilors spent a great deal of money to fund their meeting about the city's budget in the Puncak resort area in Bogor recently. Edy said the two-day meeting which was opened on Oct. 28 was conducted at Jaya Raya villa, which is owned by the city administration. "So we didn't pay anything for it.

ASEAN agrees to review rights panels

ASEAN agrees to review rights panels LAOS: Southeast Asian nations have agreed to consider creating panels on the rights of women and children as possible precursors to a regional human rights commission, an official said on Monday. Indonesia proposed a regional rights commission with investigative powers in 2003, but its colleagues in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations are still mulling that -- a contentious topic in a region plagued by frequent human rights violations.

Condoms a touchy topic in Tangerang

Condoms a touchy topic in Tangerang JAKARTA (JP): Chief of the Tangerang Family Planning office Nandi Mulya has attracted the ire of housewives over a flirtatious condom ad aired during the day on a private radio station for youths. Nandi views the commercial as positive because it educates youths to be responsible about their sexual behavior but many housewives think it would encourage sexual experimentation among their children.

House passes govt regulation on Batam Free Trade Zone into law

"20 major corporations for Rp17 trillion investment which they said could create 30,000 jobs." Then i really have to question why "former president Megawati Soekarnoputri-led PDIP faction disapproved the decision." No wonder when ever the topic of past presidents comes up the only one that get a 100% disaproval rating is Megawati. I for one am on a fact finding mission to Batam as somebody is going to have to help them find the 30,000 people they neeed!

AIDS patient takes to Singapore's stage

AIDS patient takes to Singapore's stage SINGAPORE (AP): Not only is Paddy Chew the first person in conservative Singapore to publicly say he has AIDS. He is starring as himself in a theater production. The 39-year-old Chew hopes the play will help force the topic of Singapore's growing AIDS problem into the country's living rooms and classrooms.

MPs to discuss prevention of military coups

MPs to discuss prevention of military coups JAKARTA (JP): International parliamentarians meeting in Jakarta next month will discuss ways of preventing military coups against democratically elected governments. The topic is one of the two main issues to be discussed during the 104th conference of the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) which Indonesia will host for the first time ever on Oct. 15-21.

1. ANALYSIS: 1 LINE, 35 COUNTS

1. ANALYSIS: 1 LINE, 35 COUNTS When political, national interests collide 2. CORRUPT: 2 LINES, 20 COUNTS Stopping graft should begin at budget discussions: Fitra 3. MEDAN: 3 LINES, 16 counts Corruption hottest topic in SBY, Clinton, Bush talks 4. DISABLE: 2 LINES, 28 COUNTS Govt plans for inclusion of disabled in public schools

'SCTV' interviews

'SCTV' interviews From Republika SCTV's Liputan 6 program impressed me in the beginning because of its fresh and informative topics, despite the emphasis on crime and disasters. I also enjoyed the interviews held with people linked to the topic. These days, however, SCTV seems to interrogate more than interview. The effort to present news in an attractive form should be maintained, but a better style of interviewing might help Liputan 6 win more viewers. REDY SYAHRIR AKBAR Depok, West Java

Why uranium?

Why uranium? Australian Minister for Mining Warwick Parer's announcement of Friday, March 15, 1996 to sell uranium to Indonesia is outrageous and appalling. Advanced Australia, an active and renowned antinuclear country, offering uranium for nuclear purposes to a developing nation is hypocritical and irresponsible.

Where's the porn bill?

Where's the porn bill? When pornography on TV became a topic of public discussion, the government and the House of Representatives announced that they were deliberating a bill on pornography. Unfortunately, little has been heard of this bill since. In the meantime, pornography on TV has increased. The public is very much concerned about the morality of the nation vis-a-vis the spread of pornography on TV.

Modern markets no threat: Survey

slightly off topic here but does anybody know the latest with carrefour in Bali? They have built the mothership of all supermarkets but havent opened the doors. My guy thinks it is something to do with the policy of having to employ 20% of staff from local community. He says the community want to tell carrefour who will be working there without any sort of interview or selection criteria.

Our adventure to Taman Buah Mekarsari

Our adventure to Taman Buah Mekarsari Sarah Tanjung, Kristofer Sarwono, Devin Santoso, Danny Sutanto, Primary 3, Sekolah Ichthus Jakarta-South In tune with our topic, we Primary 3 students went on a field trip to Taman Buah Mekarsari, or the Mekarsari Fruit Orchards, in Cileungsi. The journey took us about three-quarters of an hour. We climbed up a tower that was about 40 meters high. The view of the fruit orchards was beautiful and spectacular, it was green and dotted with fruits all around us.

Lecture on economic reform

Lecture on economic reform JAKARTA (JP): The Panglaykim Foundation is slated to hold a one-day lecture on economics on June 18. Prof. Jeffrey Sachs of Harvard University will present a lecture on the topic of Economic Reform and the Process of Global Integration at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Jl. Tanah Abang III/23-27, Central Jakarta. The lecture, sponsored by Bank SBU, is scheduled to take place from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Prof.

Try to open information week

Try to open information week JAKARTA: Vice President Try Sutrisno is scheduled to open the Rural Information Fair (Pependes) in the East Java town of Pasuruan on Jan. 4, Antara reported. Information Minister Harmoko disclosed that the five-day fair would see contests and quiz games among radio listeners, newspaper readers and television viewers. There will also be discussions and an exhibition on the topic of information and its dissemination.

Why the Strait of Hormuz is the World's Most Vital Oil Trade Route

The Strait of Hormuz, only 33 kilometres wide, has become a focal point of global concern following Israeli and American military strikes on Iran on 28 February 2026, prompting Iran to close the strategic waterway. Despite its modest size, the strait serves as a critical conduit linking the oil-rich Persian Gulf to the rest of the world, making it one of the busiest and most strategically important maritime routes on Earth, with its closure causing crude oil and gas prices to surge.

Corruption hottest topic in Susilo, Clinton, Bush talks

Corruption hottest topic in Susilo, Clinton, Bush talks Apriadi Gunawan, The Jakarta Post, Medan President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has held brief talks with visiting former U.S. presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush Sr. on Sunday, discussing topics related to the rebuilding and reconstruction of Aceh in the wake of Dec. 26 tsunami disaster. The 20-minute closed-door meeting was held in VIP room of Polonia Airport in Medan, before the casually dressed former U.S.

Top Thai general starts Cambodia trip

Top Thai general starts Cambodia trip PHNOM PENH (AFP): Thailand's armed forces supreme commander Gen. Mongkol Ampornpisit started a two-day visit to Cambodia on Monday with a meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, officials said. Spokesman Eang Sophalleth said Mongkol, who retires at the end of this month, made the trip to say farewell to Hun Sen and introduce his successor, adding the neighbors had always enjoyed good relations.

Carrascalao at IABC luncheon

Carrascalao at IABC luncheon JAKARTA (JP): Former East Timor governor Mario Viegas Carrascalao will be guest speaker at the Indonesia-Australia Business Council (IABC) luncheon here on Friday. IABC board said Carrascalao, who served as Indonesian ambassador to Rumania, will address the topic of "The Future of East Timor" at the luncheon to be held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The luncheon is open to IABC members and nonmembers.

RI to host journos' meeting

RI to host journos' meeting PADANG, West Sumatra: The second ASEAN journalists conference will be held in Bukittinggi, about 100 kilometers north of here, from July 2 to July 6, Antara reported yesterday. The head of the Indonesian Journalists Association's local chapter, Sahar B.S., said that up to 120 journalists from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries and Australia would participate. The meeting is expected to cover problems faced by ASEAN journalists.

UIN's Institute holds essay competition

UIN's Institute holds essay competition Commemorating the 60th Independence Day, the Institute student magazine of the Syarief Hidayatullah State Islamic University (UIN), Jakarta is holding an essay and short story competition. The theme for the essay competition is "Rereading Indonesia", while for the short story competition, participants can choose any topic they want. The essay or short story must be between six and 10 pages in length, unpublished and sent to the organizer by Sept. 10.

ASEAN finance meeting

ASEAN finance meeting BANGKOK (Reuter): Thailand will host a meeting of ASEAN Finance Ministers to boost cooperation within the seven-member grouping from Nov. 21-23, a Finance Ministry official said yesterday. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) groups Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

U.S. Islamic scholar to give lecture here

U.S. Islamic scholar to give lecture here JAKARTA (JP): Alwi Shihab, a visiting scholar at Hartford Seminary, the U.S., who is now visiting Indonesia, is scheduled to speak at a meeting here on Sunday. The topic to be discussed at the meeting, to be held by New Muslims at the Ministry of Health's Training Center on Jl. Hang Jebat, Kebayoran Baru at 2:15 p.m., will be: Does Islam tolerate differences of opinion?

Corruption

Corruption From Neraca Corruption in Indonesia has become a familiar topic of talk in the society. Unfortunately it is difficult to curb corruption due to lack of evidence. I read a report some time ago that there is a sharp difference in this matter between Indonesia and the neighboring countries -- Malaysia and Singapore. The civil servants in Malaysia and Singapore are well paid and can satisfy their daily needs. But if they are found to have committed corruption, they are severely punished.

Mahathir calls for coalition meeting

Mahathir calls for coalition meeting KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters): Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has called for a meeting of the leaders of his ruling political coalition on Oct. 25, The Star newspaper said on Thursday. The meeting of the heads of the Barisan Nasional (National Front) will be held a day after the coalition holds its 25th anniversary celebrations, the daily said.

The ninth Jakarta Auto Expo expected to lure record crowds

The ninth Jakarta Auto Expo expected to lure record crowds By Russell Williamson The 1996 Jakarta Auto Expo is expected to attract as many as 250,000 visitors over the week that it is running. The expo opens today and runs until Sunday Aug. 4 and is open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

Wet markets discussed

Wet markets discussed JAKARTA (JP): In commemoration of this year's golden anniversary of Indonesian independence, the Indonesian Economists Association will hold a discussion and writing competition on traditional, or wet, markets the association announced yesterday.

UI to host gastrointestinal symposium

UI to host gastrointestinal symposium The University of Indonesia's School of Medicine will organize an international symposium and workshop titled, Update in Gastrointestinal Malignancy. Experts from the United Kingdom, Australia and the Netherlands will present papers at the two-day symposium, which will be held on Nov. 25 and Nov. 26. Local experts are also invited to present papers on the topic.

PDI's threat

PDI's threat The threat made by Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) cadre to boycott the 1997 general elections has become a topic of public discussion. The question is what led them to make the threat. Within the party itself, differences of opinions exist, with certain members being for it and others against. It seems the threat is a reaction to the discord in the party's central board and in a number of provinces, which has remained unresolved.

Fund raising problems

Fund raising problems Lately fund raising for sports activities became a very hot topic. In my humble opinion, it is almost as hot as the political topic of succession. The discussion centered around the question whether Tapornas contains gambling elements or not. Previously we had the SDSB (government sponsored lottery) as a source for funding sports activities. But then people started to protest the government, because people said that this was covert gambling. Ultimately SDSB was banned.

Megawati-led PDI gets the people's nod

Megawati-led PDI gets the people's nod JAKARTA (JP): A recent survey on which party people will vote for shows that a majority of people have yet to make up their minds. However, those who have decided tend to support the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) led by Megawati Soekarnoputri.

ASEAN officials in Cambodia

ASEAN officials in Cambodia PHNOM PENH (Reuter): Senior Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) representatives arrived in Phnom Penh yesterday to formally notify Cambodia of its acceptance into the regional group in July along with Myanmar and Laos, officials said. ASEAN Secretary-General Ajit Singh and Malaysian Foreign Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi were also expected to discuss preparations for Cambodia's entry into the club, officials and diplomats said.

Deputy finance ministers of APEC discuss exchange rate

Deputy finance ministers of APEC discuss exchange rate JAKARTA (JP): The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) deputy finance ministers discussed the effects of excessive exchange rate movement on trade and investment in the region yesterday in preparation for next month's conference of finance ministers. The deputy ministers also discussed problems associated with the movement of short term capital between APEC's member economies and domestic resource mobilization of finance infrastructure.

Artists discuss harmony, old age

Artists discuss harmony, old age YOGYAKARTA: Pitoe Gallery is to facilitate a discussion on the Rights, Existence and Potency of Older Women on Aug. 7, here. The topic also relates to the current exhibition at the gallery titled Harmony Sejati (True Harmony). According to gallery director Purwadmadi Admadipura, the event is aimed at finding alternatives for older women, including ways that they can stay active and participate in community events.

All ASEAN ministers to attend EU meeting

All ASEAN ministers to attend EU meeting BANGKOK (AFP): All ten Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers are to attend a meeting with the European Union (EU) in Laos next week, the Thai foreign ministry said on Thursday. But only four of their EU counterparts are expected to be present at the dialog, as the others have said they are committed to attending a crucial meeting of European leaders in Nice.

Lippo Village and surroundings

Lippo Village and surroundings From Bisnis Indonesia The Lippo Village project in Tangerang has become a topic of discussion in the community. Lippo has succeeded in constructing high-rise buildings in a very short time. That the Tangerang community, especially those who live around the Islamic Village and Kelapa Dua Housing Complex, is very proud of this project is indisputable. Unfortunately, the development of its surroundings does not match the magnificence of the Village.

Children need proper sex education

Children need proper sex education By Irene Sugiharto JAKARTA (JP): In Indonesia, sex remains a sensitive topic of discussion for parents and their children. Sex education is still a taboo subject, and most children learn about sex from movies, magazines and their friends. However, observing today's youth and some of their reckless behavior, it is obvious proper sex education is needed to implant in youth a healthier and more responsible attitude toward sex.

ASEAN leaders may deal with crisis

ASEAN leaders may deal with crisis KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters): Senior ASEAN officials prepared yesterday for a summit of Asian leaders expected to be dominated by the economic crisis facing the region. "The officials have already started meeting in the final run of preparations for the meeting of the summit," said ASEAN Secretary General Ajit Singh.

Sex a hot topic in print media, radio and television stations

Sex a hot topic in print media, radio and television stations Kontak Harmoni Hemaviton Screened on RCTI Time: 10 p.m. JAKARTA (JP): A woman called talk-show hosts at a TV station complaining of a sex problem -- she could never have an orgasm. The hosts, famous sexologist Dr. Naek L. Tobing and actress Meriem Bellina, smiled meaningfully and tried to encourage the caller to tell more of her problem. The caller said she asked her husband to engage in some foreplay to arouse her sexually.

New party needed?

New party needed? From Media Indonesia The necessity of a new political party is a hot topic of discussion in our community at present. It is in fact not important who first brought up the subject. It is also not important under what circumstances the idea first occurred. For a layman like me the problem has become a question as to the number of political parties required and when they will enter the world of politics in this country.

New party needed?

New party needed? From Media Indonesia The necessity of a new political party is a hot topic of discussion in our community at present. It is in fact not important who first brought up the subject. It is also not important under what circumstances the idea first occurred. For a layman like me the problem has become a question as to the number of political parties required and when they will enter the world of politics in this country.

Sex before marriage? Some say yes, others no

Sex before marriage? Some say yes, others no JAKARTA (JP): Sex is always a sensitive but interesting topic to talk about, especially when premarital sex is the topic. For the last couple of years, the number of abortions among unmarried women, specifically teenage girls, has increased, according to surveys by a number of magazines in Jakarta. This seems to shows that sex before marriage has become less of a taboo and more acceptable.

Gus Dur to open Gapensi congress

Gus Dur to open Gapensi congress SEMARANG, Central Java: President Abdurrahman Wahid is scheduled to open the 10th National Conference of the Indonesian Builders Association (Gapensi) here, which is scheduled to run from Sept. 16 until Sept. 20, an official said on Wednesday. Chairman of the organizing committee Djoko Wahyudi said the meeting would elect new members of the association's board for the 2000/2004 period and define detailed work programs.

Mandarin language

Mandarin language From Media Indonesia Controversy about the Mandarin language has forced me to ponder: What actually is the significance of the language? It is true that some advertisements seek those who master this language, but as one of several foreign languages in the country it is not unusual that it occasionally becomes a debating topic. An example of this is a ban on karaoke festivals in Mandarin by the East Java authorities.

KID discusses public services

KID discusses public services JAKARTA: The Indonesian Community for Democracy (KID) held its first roundtable discussion on Thursday in Jakarta, one day after it was officially launched. The democratization of public services in education and health was the topic of the discussion held at the Regent Hotel. KID plans to hold a series of six discussions over the next six months. Each of the discussions will be attended by about 60 participants from Jakarta, outside Jakarta and outside Java.

It's a game of musical maids

It's a game of musical maids Musical maids JAKARTA (JP): If someone was to procure a statistic on the favorite topic of conversation among housewives in Jakarta, I can say the topic of maids would win hands down. For a newcomer to Jakarta the prospect of having the luxury of employing two or three housemaids is incredibly delicious. However the taste does turn slightly sour when one learns of the mystery that lies behind holding on to them.

'Weighty' issues of our conversations

'Weighty' issues of our conversations JAKARTA (JP): When I was in the Netherlands last month, people were still talking about the heat wave they had experienced the month before. When I went to the Saturday open air market, I had to listen to the same old story of the temperature hitting 40 degrees Celsius, over and over again at every stand: the fish vendor, the butcher, the dairy man and even the Vietnamese selling egg rolls. I would probably have done the same if I had lived there.

ASEAN to discuss Myanmar's membership

ASEAN to discuss Myanmar's membership JAKARTA (JP): Senior officials of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) begin a two-day meeting in Kuala Lumpur today with Myanmar's membership as a hot topic on the agenda. Indonesian foreign ministry officials revealed yesterday that they expect frank discussions on the topic, including the political implications for ASEAN of having Myanmar in its ranks in the very near future. Myanmar formally applied to join the association in August.

'APEC leaders intend to restart WTO talks'

'APEC leaders intend to restart WTO talks' Agence France-Presse, Bangkok World leaders attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit intend to push for failed WTO talks to be restarted, Thai foreign minister Surakiart Sathirathai said on Wednesday. Breaking the deadlock between rich and poor nations that emerged during the talks at Cancun, Mexico last month and putting the Doha Round of free trade negotiations back on track is a major goal of the Bangkok talks.

ASEAN officials begin two-day dialog with U.S.

ASEAN officials begin two-day dialog with U.S. BATAM Island (JP): Delegates from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states and the United States begin a two-day dialog today on political and economic issues, including human rights in Myanmar and the recent bombardment of Iraq. While the question of Iraq is not part of the official agenda, delegates said that it could be brought up during the dialog.

Malaysian FM to visit Vietnam

Malaysian FM to visit Vietnam KUALA LUMPUR (DPA): Malaysian Foreign Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said yesterday he will make an eight-day trip beginning tomorrow to Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia to strengthen bilateral relations. The state-run Bernama national news agency quoted Abdullah as saying his trip is aimed at broadening two-way ties in all areas including trade, economic and political cooperation, and culture. He will visit Vietnam from Oct.

RI awards medal to Geertz

RI awards medal to Geertz JAKARTA: Anthropologist Clifford Geertz from Princeton University was awarded with an honorary medal from the Indonesian government for the research he has done in Indonesia since 1952. The medal was presented by Indonesian Ambassador to the United Nations Makmur Widodo at Princeton's Institute of Advanced Studies in New Jersey on Tuesday.

PM Goh to visit Jakarta

PM Goh to visit Jakarta JAKARTA (JP): Singapore Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong will make a two-day working visit to Indonesia beginning on Thursday, Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono said yesterday. Moerdiono did not mention any specific topic to be discussed by Goh during his meeting with President Soeharto, adding that the two leaders will likely discuss various bilateral, regional and international matters.

Philippines to host UN council meet

Philippines to host UN council meet UNITED NATIONS: The Philippines foreign minister was set to host a special UN Security Council meeting on Tuesday on the role of civil society in helping to build peace in nations devastated by war. Foreign Minister Delia Domingo-Albert said she would chair the session, focussing on the topic chosen by the Philippines in its role as council president for the month of June.

Two-day symposium on surveyors' licensing

Two-day symposium on surveyors' licensing A two-day exhibition on survey equipment and a symposium on surveyors' licensing held at the Jakarta Design Center ended yesterday. Closing ceremonies were conducted by City Mapping and Surveying Office Head Sidharta. The symposium, which was opened on Wednesday by Deputy Governor for Economy and Development TB. M.

Guess What? Djisman Simanjuntak

Guess What? Djisman Simanjuntak Have you ever heard Djisman Simanjuntak talk about press freedom? Probably not. Simanjuntak is the executive director of the Prasetiya Mulya Graduate School of Management and he is popular for his sharp analysis in the field of economics. Therefore, it was quite surprising when he talked about the freedom of the press on Friday afternoon. He did not mean to have a lengthy discussion about the topic.

Tips to avoid frustration

Tips to avoid frustration I would like to give my response to a letter which appeared in The Jakarta Post, July 25, 1995 entitled On the move in Jakarta. Having no personal transport I am at the mercy of taxi and bajaj (three-wheeled motorized transport vehicle) drivers. My way of avoiding being frustrated is to expect to be frustrated. I try and enjoy the perils of getting around Jakarta. I always have a map and have identified my destination before setting off.

ABRI's fate under review

ABRI's fate under review My questions here are solely based on an article written by Wahyudi M. Pratopo, which appeared in The Jakarta Post's Sunday issue, Feb. 26, 1995. If the article written is not accurate, then my questions based on that are not accurate either. Mr.

'RRI' to air business forum

'RRI' to air business forum JAKARTA (JP): PT Harvest International Indonesia and the state-run radio network Radio Republic Indonesia (RRI) will jointly stage an interactive business forum beginning next week. Company president Harvey Goldstein said on Thursday that the program would provide opportunities for foreign investors in Indonesia to engage in frank dialog with Cabinet ministers and senior government officials.

Batam autonomy worries investors

Batam autonomy worries investors BATAM, Riau: Implementation of regional autonomy on Batam island is worrying investors from neighboring Singapore. Like businesspeople from other parts of the world, Singaporeans have not yet received sufficient information about the autonomy that Indonesia's central government gave to regencies one year ago.

Waste water treatment seminar

Waste water treatment seminar JAKARTA (JP): Experts from the Ministry of Public Works and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) underlined here yesterday the importance of ground and surface water quality and the need to collect correct data. In a two-day seminar on human waste and domestic waste water disposal in Bekasi, they suggested that monitoring is also needed to provided sanitation facilities.

The question of nepotism

The question of nepotism From Media Indonesia Some political observers are of the opinion that nepotism is stalking the legislative candidacy lineup at the moment (Morning Coverage 6 of SCTV, Sept. 28). In the right sense of the word, nepotism tends to favor, or act in favor of one's own kin where jobs and positions are concerned. It would seem that nepotism is still around in Indonesian politics, affecting other fields like the economy, social fields, culture, security and defense.

Justice banned from seminar

Justice banned from seminar SURABAYA: Deputy Chief Justice Adi Andojo Soetjipto failed to show up to address a seminar at the Airlangga University here yesterday because he was not permitted to attend. "Pak (Mr.) Adi only sent us a letter of apology for not being allowed to go by his superior, Chief Justice Soerjono, but he sent his paper to us," Dini Nurfirahmi, chair of the seminar's organizing committee told The Jakarta Post.

Experience South Africa's wildlife

Experience South Africa's wildlife JAKARTA: Three Indonesian students will be taking part in the Cathay Pacific-sponsored Lapalala Wilderness Experience between July 14 and July 23 in which they will attend a one-week ecological course. The program aims to expand the youths' horizons and raise awareness of man's impact on the environment.

DPR Speaker Vows Parliament Will Question Reasons Behind TNI Alert Level 1 Declaration

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has pledged that the relevant parliamentary commissions will seek clarification from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) regarding the implementation of Alert Level 1 status. Maharani stated that whilst military readiness is important, Parliament wishes to understand the TNI's specific considerations for implementing this status, particularly in light of regional developments in the Middle East.

Integration of Chinese

Integration of Chinese From Media Indonesia The Feb. 2 editorial of this newspaper succinctly and correctly discussed the integration of the Chinese community. It seems that the word "becoming" connotes a simple meaning. In fact, it is here that the key to integration lies. Basically, what is sought is the right model of integration to ensure that Chinese-Indonesians will become real sons and daughters of the motherland. There is more to just policies.

Djadja visits universities

Djadja visits universities JAKARTA (JP): Jakarta Military Commander Maj. Gen. Djadja Suparman started his first day in his new job yesterday visiting universities and meeting religious and public figures. He set out at about 7:45 a.m. and toured the capital to meet with academics from Pancasila University and the Jakarta Teacher Training Institute. During his visit to the universities, Djadja said he was keen to get information from all walks of life on any topic of interest.

From Media Indonesia

From Media Indonesia The Feb. 2 editorial of this newspaper succinctly and correctly discussed the integration of the Chinese community. It seems that the word "becoming" connotes a simple meaning. In fact, it is here that the key to integration lies. Basically, what is sought is the right model of integration to ensure that Chinese-Indonesians will become real sons and daughters of the motherland. There is more to just policies. Something more effective to this end is needed.

Bali hosts fishery conference

Bali hosts fishery conference KUTA, Bali: The management and regulation of migratory fish resources would be one important topic discussed in the five-day international conference on fisheries, Minister of Fishery and Mariime Affairs Rokhmin Dahuri said here on Monday.

A rare book with sexy topic

A rare book with sexy topic 'The Romance of K'tut Tantri and Indonesia' By Timothy Lindsey Oxford University Press, 1997 Hardback 362 pp AU$65 MELBOURNE (JP): There are many a doctorate thesis that have been spruced up and published as books but one dealing with such a sexy topic as Timothy Lindsey's The Romance of K'tut Tantri and Indonesia is rare indeed. First, any topic that touches on Bali will always hold the reader's fascination.

Drivers: Beware!

Drivers: Beware! Violators of traffic regulations on Jakarta's main streets like Jl. Sudirman, and Jl. Thamrin shall be fined Rp 1 million to Rp 6 million. This headline in the local daily Kompas of Sept. 28, 1994 edition becomes the topic of the day, in most offices. The reactions of my colleagues vary, but all unanimously agree that the penalty is too high. However, everybody agrees that the sense of discipline of drivers in general leaves much to be desired.

Suggestions

Suggestions One topic which at times appears in your columns is the Jakarta City Revenue Office's complaint about parking revenue. Last year, they were Rp 1 billion short of their Rp 9 billion target. Next year's target is Rp 14 billion. Not bad considering that two years ago the target was Rp 3 billion and the actual collection Rp 1.5 billion, or only 50 percent of the target. Last year's collection reached 89 percent but the target was too low.

GAM and martial law

GAM and martial law Let me respond to Hilde May's comments (The Jakarta Post, July 15) on my analysis Unspoken protest amid prolonged war in Aceh of July 8. Hilde May said the "Free Aceh Movement (GAM) ... eventually provoked martial law". It is not so simple as it may seem. If, as even the Indonesian Military has recognized, GAM controlled a large part of Aceh, why would it prefer to live under martial law?

Guess What? Harmoko

Guess What? Harmoko When Minister of Information Harmoko came for his scheduled hearing with the House of Representatives' Commission I on foreign policy, information and security, it was expected that the issue of the paper crisis would be among the most debated topics. However, no one really expected the farcical exchange of comments that would occur around this heated topic. As usual, at a House hearing, copies of the minister's written answer are distributed at the beginning of the session.

APEC and terrorism

APEC and terrorism While the world is still focused on Afghanistan, which has been bombarded by the United States for the past 11 days, APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation) member countries are scheduled to begin their meeting on Thursday in Shanghai, which Chinese officials claim to be the "world's safest city".

Revisiting contextual teaching, learning methods

Revisiting contextual teaching, learning methods Totok Amin Soefijanto, Jakarta Many concepts in education come and go in this land. While a few of them are worth our time, effort, and thoughts, the majority of these so called "breakthroughs" are just enterprizes of trial and error. One of them, however, can be considered a valuable topic for our discussion.

Military or civilian?

Military or civilian? The antagonism between the military and civilians has again become a hot topic of debate. This old issue has reemerged due to the fact that two former generals are running for president. The two, Wiranto and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, will be strong challengers to two civilian candidates -- Amien Rais and Megawati Soekarnoputri.

Consuls General in Guangzhou set sights on APEC 2026 in Shenzhen

Guangdong's delegation is gearing up for the 2026 APEC China Year, with Shenzhen hosting the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting on November 18-19, 2026, and hundreds of related events planned across Chinese cities. Consuls General in Guangzhou from APEC economies say Guangdong's status as a tech, innovation and trade hub embodies APEC's spirit and invite partners to participate. They expect APEC China Year to boost economic growth across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

'Encyclopedia Mahathir' launched

'Encyclopedia Mahathir' launched MALAYSIA: A 10-volume encyclopedia of Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's ideas has been launched ahead of his retirement next month, local media reported on Monday. Available in Arabic and English, the encyclopedia is a compilation of the veteran leader's speeches and ideas on globalization, politics and other issues, the official Bernama news agency said.

Rose is Rose

Rose is Rose Reading Give me back my hot spot in The Jakarta Post, June 23, 2001, I would now like to give my comment. I was first attracted to The Jakarta Post because of its crossword puzzles, which then were not as complicated as they have become. Then came the comics section, which is still running until now, minus Blondie. How I missed Blondie after it was discontinued. But it was Rose is Rose which made up for everything.

NZ holds speech competition

NZ holds speech competition JAKARTA: The New Zealand Trade Development Board held an English language speech competition, involving the participation of 81 students here recently. The board said in its media release on Tuesday that 17 contestants had been selected from of a total of 81 representing nine colleges here.

Sensitive issue subject of play

Sensitive issue subject of play SINGAPORE (AP): A play staged in Singapore this weekend raised the sensitive topic of a Dutch girl's forced separation from Malay Muslim foster parents which sparked deadly race riots in the city-state 50 years ago. Racial and religious themes are rarely aired in the arts in Singapore, a tightly controlled Asian country with a complex mixture of ethnic groups.

How rich is Teten Masduki?

How rich is Teten Masduki? JAKARTA (JP): Teten Masduki, the well-known government critic from Indonesian Corruption Watch (ICW), set an example of accountability on Thursday by declaring his wealth in public. "My assets include a cupboard, a stove, a refrigerator and three chickens in a cage," said Teten Masduki before participants at a seminar discussing the auditing of public servants' wealth. He made the revelation on the request of his fellow activist Farid R.

Indonesian helps clone 1st dog

Indonesian helps clone 1st dog YOGYAKARTA: Yuda Heru Fibrianto, a lecturer from Gadjah Mada University (UGM)'s School of Veterinary Medicine, was among the researchers at a South Korean university who recently created the world's first cloned dog. Speaking at a news conference here on Friday, the dean of UGM's School of Veterinary Medicine, Charles Ranggatabu, expressed pride over the breakthrough, saying that it had added to the long list of achievements of UGM lecturers.

Gus Dur's address

Gus Dur's address From Neraca As a citizen I definitely want to assess our President. As far as public speaking is concerned, it is evident that the former presidents -- Sukarno, Soeharto, Habibie -- and now President Abdurrahman Wahid are different from one another. Our beloved current President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid as depicted on TV during his visit to Banda Aceh recently, made my heart pound when I as his fan listened to his public speech. I was afraid he spoke erroneously.

SBY hasn't set deadline for issuing the severance law

A favorite topic of mine this one! Unless Indonesia makes some very drastic changes very quickly to the manpower laws they will see a mass reduction in Manufacturing as the MNC head to India, China and Vietman. While it may seem Indonesia has cheap labor .. the costs of employment here can be high given the number of actual working days and expectations of the workforce on company benefits.

Mysterious murder

Mysterious murder Recently local TV reported that a man traveling on an express train from Surabaya to Jakarta was killed when he went to the bathroom on the train. But the circumstances of the murder were so mysterious that it is comparable to a Sherlock Holmes story. The man apparently went to Surabaya to see his son win a gold medal for gymnastics at the National Games (PON).

Clarification needed

Clarification needed The improper use of Rp 7.1 billion (Rp 3.1 billion according to the director general of PT Jamsostek) of Jamsostek workers' social security funds has become a topic of widespread public discussion. It would therefore be most appropriate if the issue could be clarified at the soonest.

Asian Statesmen Forum opens in Bali

Asian Statesmen Forum opens in Bali DENPASAR, Bali: The Asian Statesmen's Forum will take place on Tuesday with more than 100 high-ranking government officials from Asian countries participating in the one-day event at the Hotel Imperial Bali in Seminyak. The meeting, the third of its kind, will discuss various pressing issues in Asia, including security affairs (State and Human Security), human resources development, energy and environmental issues, economic issues and civilized dialog.

Filipino maids

Filipino maids I found your article, headline 'Singapore to stop Filipino maids inflow', which appeared in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 31, 1994 totally unnerving. At a glance, it immediately suggested that the influx of Filipino maids to Singapore continues to be unabated, which is grossly and absolutely wrong.

Seminar on women and osteoporosis

Seminar on women and osteoporosis JAKARTA (JP): The local branch of Soroptimist International is scheduled to hold a seminar on women and osteoporosis at Erasmus Huis in South Jakarta on Saturday. The seminar will be held in Bahasa Indonesia from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the organization's president Julie Marsaban said in a statement.

A question of legality

A question of legality There has been a lot of fuss lately about business activities conducted by the offspring of government officials. There have been accusations that the way in which those young people conduct their activities is not always very ethical. And some have defended the right of every human being, including the children of officials, to do business.

34 teams battle in debating contest

34 teams battle in debating contest JAKARTA (JP): Thirty-four teams battled it out in the first three preliminary rounds of the Indonesian Varsities English Debate 1998 yesterday, the first such national debate here. The three-day debate opened yesterday with 34 teams from 22 universities at the University of Indonesia (UI), Depok, West Java. The winning team may be nominated for the world English debating tournament, scheduled in December.

U.S. visa

U.S. visa I'd like to expand on a topic written by A. Djuana of Jakarta (The Jakarta Post, July 20, 1994) regarding the United States policy on approving visas to America. The letter expressed confusion and anger at the system employed by the U.S. to admit immigrants and visitors. I have to agree the policy is very confusing and can be a bit unfair. I'm an American citizen and my wife is Indonesian. We are in the process of applying for an immigrant visa that has routinely run into problems.

Rights defendant backs commission

Rights defendant backs commission The People's Consultative Assembly's Annual Session, which has been underway for seven days, has drawn quite a lot of attention from the public, including Eurico Guterres. Clad in black and with his curly hair mane-like as usual, Eurico entered the MPR compound on Wednesday, then walked briskly across the Nusantara V building. Soon he was surrounded by reporters, drawing attention away from other visitors to the Annual Assembly.

ILO holds seminar on labor laws

ILO holds seminar on labor laws JAKARTA (JP): The International Labor Organization (ILO) will hold an Asia-Pacific symposium today to discuss matters related to international labor conventions. Herman van der Laan, head of the ILO office in Jakarta, said the symposium, jointly organized with the Ministry of Manpower, will bring over 50 representatives of governments and of employers and workers organizations from 26 regional countries.

Radio broadcaster ignorant about rape

Radio broadcaster ignorant about rape I am writing in reference to a talk show on the radio station Jakarta News FM 97.4 at 7 p.m. on Jan. 30. Its topic was a recent rape case in a taxi. The woman broadcaster mentioned the rapist was a father of five. The broadcaster's co-host on the talk show, a man named Dono, asked his colleague if the rapist had a daughter. Although the woman did not know, Dono said that if the man had a daughter he would not have thought about committing the act.

Public debates needed

Public debates needed Minister of National Development Planning/Chairman of the National Development Planning Board Ginanjar Kartasasmita in his speech on the occasion of accepting an honorary doctor's degree in development administration from Gajah Mada University in Yogyakarta on April 15, said that all public policies which have an extensive impact on the welfare of many should be transparent and beneficial to the people at large.

English debate on the death sentence

English debate on the death sentence JAKARTA (JP): An English debate will take place at the University of Indonesia campus in Depok next week. Called the Jakarta Varsities English Debate, it has been organized by the Local Committee of the Brussels-based Association Internationale des Etudiantes en Sciences et Commerciales (AIESEC) of the University of Indonesia.

AFTA top topic at ASEAN ministers' talks

AFTA top topic at ASEAN ministers' talks BANGKOK (AFP): ASEAN economic ministers gather on the Thai holiday island of Phuket this week for a round of free-wheeling talks likely to focus on plans to speed up regional free-trade plans, officials said. Officials described the meeting on Saturday as a "retreat" where ministers would be able to speak their minds without the formal baggage of minders and advisers to guide them.

Japan, ASEAN anti-terror meet ends

Japan, ASEAN anti-terror meet ends JAPAN: Japan and ASEAN nations wound up a two-day closed-door meeting here on Thursday to discuss joint measures against terrorism in the region, a foreign ministry official said. "We do not make any announcement on what has been discussed in concrete terms because of the nature of the topic which is terrorism," the official said.

Polemics on Sukarno

Polemics on Sukarno We support a call by Vice President Try Sutrisno to cease with the polemics concerning Sukarno and his role during the 1965 communist coup because the former president is now deceased. The polemics surfaced early this month after former ambassador Manai Sophiaan launched his book Kehormatan Bagi Yang Berhak (Honors for the One Who Deserves It) which centers on Sukarno's activities during those critical years.

Challenges in teaching English composition

Challenges in teaching English composition By Setiono JAKARTA (JP): The contemporary practices of English teaching composition in the country do not totally reflect the communicative paradigm of the modern English teaching methodology. Endeavors to shed light on the improvement of teaching composition seems to have received little attention and have in fact become matters of complete indifference.

The right to vote

The right to vote From Koran Tempo The 2004 general election is still one and a half years away and the electoral law is still under discussion at the House of Representatives. Every citizen enjoys the right to vote for one of the 237 political parties in this country.

The right to vote

The right to vote From Koran Tempo The 2004 general election is still one and a half years away and the electoral law is still under discussion at the House of Representatives. Every citizen enjoys the right to vote for one of the 237 political parties in this country.

Azahari studied in Britain: University

Azahari studied in Britain: University ENGLAND: One of the suspected masterminds of the October 2002 Bali bombings which killed 202 people obtained a doctorate in Britain, the university confirmed on Sunday. Azahari bin Husin, 48, believed to be a key leader in the Al- Qaeda-linked Jamaah Islamiyah Islamic extremist group and the organization's top explosives expert, obtained a degree in land management from the University of Reading, the establishment said in a statement.

Snap election

Snap election From Media Indonesia The possibility of snap elections has become a popular topic recently. This is quite all right as long as it remains a subject of discourse with all its attendant debates without anybody forcing their wishes upon others. What matters more than an accelerated general election, actually, is a profound study of why a snap election is necessary.

On protecting women workers

On protecting women workers Your editorial Protect all women workers (Aug. 12, 2000) sharply criticizes a campaign to stop sending women workers to Saudi Arabia, which was prompted by 22 NGOs and supported by the First Lady. Most of those women work as domestic staff. The most important criticism launched in the editorial is that legal protection should also apply to pembantu (domestic staff) in our own country. I have some comments on this.

Talk show halted in midbroadcast

Talk show halted in midbroadcast JAKARTA (JP): A political talk show on private TV station Indosiar abruptly went off the air in midbroadcast last night, with the station later blaming the interruption on "technical" problems. Jointly hosted by social commentator Wimar Witoelar and economist Sjahrir, Dialog Aktual's topic was the government's plan to regulate freedom of expression. The show, scheduled from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m., went off the air after 15 minutes.

ASEAN Officials Discuss Development of Tuna Industry

TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta:For the first time, a number of ASEAN countries will decide on strategic steps to develop the tuna industry. “We will formulate a program covering important aspects of fishery in the international market,” said Victor Nikijuluw , Director General of Fishery Processing and Marketing at the Maritime Affairs and Fishery Ministry.

Bojonggede people

Bojonggede people live in fear Residents of Bojonggede, Depok who live in newly built housing complexes, are living in fear because of a rash of crime in the area, located just 10 kilometers south of Jakarta. The most recent case, area residents were quoted by Antara as saying, took place at 2.30 a.m. on Thursday when a group of masked men broke into a house being run as a coffee shop. The robbers fled when they were surprised by the owners, who were still awake at the time of the break-in.

Illegal levies

Illegal levies The problem of levies has once again become a topic of public discussion. It began with reports that textile industries in West Java are burdened with not less than 36 legal levies -- that is to say, levies that are based on formal laws and regulations. Then came the news that chemical industries, too, are suffering under the same burden. Meanwhile, the entire business world is complaining about levies, both legal and illegal, the latter in the form of demands for bribes.

Teachers need to organize

Teachers need to organize As the teachers bill is currently being debated by the House of Representatives (DPR), the topic of teachers' salaries has again hit the headlines. Given that education is the key to socioeconomic development, and that the salaries paid to teachers have a huge bearing on the quality of education, it is obviously important to Indonesia that teachers here are paid properly.

Maritime riches

Maritime riches I was delighted to read the contribution by Santo Darmosumarto of Pondok Gede in his column in The Jakarta Post of Nov. 8, 1999, captioned Maritime security, enlivening thereby the discussion of the topic among the interested readers. The writer rightly commented that my writing represented an exemplary attempt to arouse awareness of Indonesia's maritime potential.

'My Asian Neighbors' in hilarious cartoons

'My Asian Neighbors' in hilarious cartoons Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta An artist works by absorbing the world around him and pouring it back into his creations. Sometimes the expression comes abstractly, other times, as in the work of cartoonists, it takes the form of tongue-in-cheek frankness.

East Timor and Myanmar issues stall Europe-ASEAN talks

East Timor and Myanmar issues stall Europe-ASEAN talks SINGAPORE (Reuter): Moves to deepen ties between Europe and Southeast Asia stalled yesterday over how to deal with Myanmar and East Timor, delegates said. They said senior officials from the 15-nation European Union and the seven members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) could not agree on wording for a final declaration that indirectly deals with the thorny issues.

Investment Barriers in Indonesia Early 2026: Majority Related to Business Licensing

As of 20 February 2026, Indonesia's investment debottlenecking channel had received 89 complaints, with business licensing issues accounting for over half (45 complaints). The task force has processed 46 complaints, addressing barriers ranging from bioethanol factory permits to waste-to-energy projects and pharmaceutical licensing, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa aiming to eliminate most investment obstacles within a year.

NAM agrees to admit Eritrea as new member

NAM agrees to admit Eritrea as new member By Meidyatama Suryodiningrat BANDUNG (JP): Senior officials of the Non-Aligned Movement agreed yesterday to admit the newly independent African state of Eritrea into the organization. "Eritrea has been officially instated as the next newest member," said NAM's chief executive assistant Nana Sutresna at the end of the first day of NAM's senior official meeting.

Heritage buildings in the city

Heritage buildings in the city I recently read an article in Kompas concerning an attempt to remove the right of the National Archives Foundation to manage the National Archives building on Jl. Gajah Mada. I would really appreciate it if The Jakarta Post would cover this topic, which could ultimately affect other heritage buildings. As an Indonesian who grew up during Dutch colonial days, I remember the many heritage buildings that used to line Jl.

Heritage buildings in the city

Heritage buildings in the city I recently read an article in Kompas concerning an attempt to remove the right of the National Archives Foundation to manage the National Archives building on Jl. Gajah Mada. I would really appreciate it if The Jakarta Post would cover this topic, which could ultimately affect other heritage buildings. As an Indonesian who grew up during Dutch colonial days, I remember the many heritage buildings that used to line Jl.

From Slogan to System: Avoiding ESG Fatigue in Indonesia

Indonesia's ESG discourse has grown from boardroom jargon to formal reporting, yet questions arise about whether the public is growing tired of vague promises. The piece argues that while institutional support for ESG remains, actual changes must be reflected in concrete emissions data, investment shifts, and measurable governance standards. It calls for embedding sustainability into investment decisions, management incentives, and performance metrics rather than treating it as a cosmetic slogan.

Plagiarism in journalism

Plagiarism in journalism I would like to comment on your story titled U.S. experts say plagiarism rampant in RI journalism (July 2). The Jakarta Post reported that Fulbright Professor Alios Klement said she was concerned by the way many Indonesian media organizations shamelessly plagiarized whole or partial editorial material and photographs from foreign and local media.

Two of Jokowi's Nephews at Pertamina Draw Public Scrutiny: Who Are They? Here's Their Profile

The appointment of two of President Joko Widodo's nephews to management positions at Pertamina, a state-owned energy company, has sparked public debate in Indonesia. Critics are questioning the meritocracy and governance of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), emphasizing the importance of transparency and competence in key sectors. Pertamina has responded by stating that the appointments were made through professional channels and followed standard operating procedures.

Golkar denies preparing new cabinet list

Golkar denies preparing new cabinet list JAKARTA (JP): Golkar Secretary-General Ary Mardjono denied making a list of future cabinet ministers for President Soeharto to consider. Ary said it was the President's prerogative to choose cabinet ministers and the Golkar executive board had not discussed matters concerning the 1998-2002 cabinet. However, reliable sources say that Ary's list of ministers had become a hot topic among Golkar leaders.

Inul's body

Inul's body politicized Inul's gyrating body has become an extremely interesting subject of discussion at all layers of Indonesian society recently. Almost all television talk shows raise the issue of Inul's rags-to-riches story. Only the government hasn't said a word yet on this controversial matter. For a long time, any provocative incident, particularly when the object has concerned women, has always been eye-catching and quickly lodges in people's consciousness.

Don't spoil Condet

Don't spoil Condet From Merdeka Although I'm not originally from Condet, as a longtime resident of Jakarta, I sympathize with Condet's plight which has resurfaced and become a hot topic after the word spread that the Jakarta administration intended to buy up the area. Undoubtedly, the administration's plan falls in line with our hopes of maintaining the Condet region as a cultural reserve in Jakarta. It is clear that the culture of Condet should be kept alive.

Former Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda says Prabowo will review Indonesia's BoP membership.

Former Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda says President Prabowo Subianto will evaluate Indonesia's membership of the Board of Peace (BoP) in light of renewed tensions following the US-Israel strikes on Iran. The meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta lasted about 3.5 hours and focused on BoP's future and potential implications for global security and Indonesian oil and gas supply.

Pro and cons on dubbing

Pro and cons on dubbing From Kompas The dubbing of foreign television films into Indonesian has become a hotly debated topic recently. Some people are of the opinion that in the absence of dubbing into Indonesian, "we can learn a foreign language", (meaning English). However, if the film is in Spanish, for example, will many of the viewers be able to understand the dialog?

Inul's body politicized

Inul's body politicized Inul's gyrating body has become an extremely interesting subject of discussion at all layers of Indonesian society recently. Almost all television talk shows raise the issue of Inul's rags-to-riches story. Only the government hasn't said a word yet on this controversial matter. For a long time, any provocative incident, particularly when the object has concerned women, has always been eye-catching and quickly lodges in people's consciousness.

Putin Calls Iranian President, Urges De-escalation with US-Israel

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the escalating conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, calling for rapid de-escalation and political resolution. Putin reiterated Russia's principled position supporting swift de-escalation, whilst the Kremlin confirmed it has provided humanitarian assistance to Iran. The conversation reflects Russia's diplomatic efforts amid the ongoing conflict that erupted on 28 February 2026 and has resulted in significant casualties, including the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Videos of Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's Family Allegedly Disembarking from Private Jet Go Viral on Social Media

Social media platform X has been abuzz with the circulation of several videos purportedly showing the family of Investment Minister and Head of BKPM, Bahlil Lahadalia, disembarking from a private jet. The footage has sparked widespread reactions from netizens and become a hot topic of discussion. The videos, first uploaded by the account @BosPurwa, show three different moments, all depicting a person alleged to be Bahlil Lahadalia and his family stepping off a white private jet.

Daihatsu to boost production in RI

Daihatsu to boost production in RI TOKYO (Reuter): Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd said yesterday it will boost production at its affiliated companies in Indonesia and Malaysia in 1997/98. Daihatsu, owned 33.4 percent by Toyota Motor Corp, will also aim to boost its exports to 137 billion yen in the current business year to March 31, 1998, up 19.1 percent from the previous year.

Dozens of Bank Employees Fired Over Fake Keyboard Devices

Wells Fargo reportedly dismissed dozens of employees after investigating claims that they used fake keyboard devices to simulate activity and appear productive while working remotely. The devices, known as mouse jigglers, keep computers awake and prevent sleep mode, raising broader concerns about remote work engagement highlighted by Gallup. The case references a filing to FINRA and underscores a strict stance on unethical conduct.

'SCTV' takes economist to police

'SCTV' takes economist to police YOGYAKARTA: SCTV reported a Gadjah Mada University economist on Friday to police here for allegedly defaming the private television station. The suit was submitted to the Yogyakarta Police by two SCTV presenters, Rosiana Silalahi and Bayu Sutiyono, executive producer Zaenal Bhakti accompanied by their lawyers, Bambang Widjojanto and Iskandar Sonhaji. The broadcaster accused Revrisond Baswir of libel and tarnishing the station's credibility.

Train engineers

Train engineers The article School stresses train engineers must stay alert in The Jakarta Post on Sept. 11, 2001, attracted my attention. A late uncle of mine, born in 1900, happened to work as a train engineer, then called a machinist, some time between 1920 and 1930. He was an active man, physically, mentally and morally. A person for whom right was right and wrong was wrong.

Train engineers

Train engineers The article School stresses train engineers must stay alert in The Jakarta Post on Sept. 11, 2001, attracted my attention. A late uncle of mine, born in 1900, happened to work as a train engineer, then called a machinist, some time between 1920 and 1930. He was an active man, physically, mentally and morally. A person for whom right was right and wrong was wrong.

Video: With Prices High, PT Timah Boosts Sales - Profits Up Over 100%

Amidst global economic and geopolitical volatility, tin prices have risen to around USD 46,000 per metric ton. PT Timah Tbk (TINS) has capitalised on this, increasing sales and achieving over 100% profit growth, driven by higher demand for tin in semiconductors, AI, and data centres. The company is also focused on strengthening operational fundamentals and improving productivity to maintain its competitiveness against China and Myanmar.

Care needed in choosing franchises

Care needed in choosing franchises JAKARTA (JP): Indonesian entrepreneurs interested in opening foreign franchise businesses must be very selective in choosing franchisers, a marketing executive has said. Indonesia Marketing Association's president, Hermawan Kartajaya, said Saturday that those who were interested in becoming franchisees must choose franchise brands carefully. "Franchising is about selling a brand.

Exclusivism and multiculturalism in Islamic society

Exclusivism and multiculturalism in Islamic society Ahmad Najib Burhani, Jakarta The issue of the implementation of sharia is not of much interest to Indonesian people, whether Muslims or non-Muslims. The April 5 legislative election results are the best proof of this statement. The Crescent Star Party (PBB), one of the parties that promotes sharia, gained less than three percent of the votes and failed to pass the electoral threshold.

Football a welcome respite to daily grind

Football a welcome respite to daily grind JAKARTA (JP): Political and economic reform has been discussed daily topic for the past five months, but World Cup soccer will undoubtedly become the number one topic of conversation among Indonesians for the next 30 days. Eyes will be glued to television sets across the archipelago, hearts will beat quickly and voices scream in anguish and joy as the trials and tribulations of the tournament unfold.

MUENSTER, Germany (JP): Bandung in Indonesia and Muenster in

MUENSTER, Germany (JP): Bandung in Indonesia and Muenster in Germany are geographically disconnected and culturally different. In dealing with the problems of the mobility of disabled people there is nothing comparable. 2. 5Buchori -- Moral education: Whose responsibility is it?

Appeal for unity

Appeal for unity Since the transfer of the presidency from Soeharto to Habibie and at the present under the administration of Abdurrahman Wahid, the economic recovery of this republic has remained a big question mark. The exchange rate of the rupiah to the U.S. dollar does not come up to our expectations and foreign investors are seemingly reluctant to invest their capital in Indonesia.

Lion Air lucky draw lamentation

Lion Air lucky draw lamentation Recently I had a very upsetting experience in dealing with the Lion Air marketing system. It is the second time I tried to enter my parents into a lucky draw contest, which Lion claims they are doing every week and once a month. In the instructions, it says that I have to send an SMS to 3477 and they will send me a reply, in which will contain a PIN number and a thank-you note. I followed exactly what the instructions said, but did not get any reply from them.

JP/18/top

JP/18/top Indonesia's top five fashion designers An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Syahmedi Dean Contributor/Jakarta Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.

JP/18/top

JP/18/top Indonesia's top five fashion designers An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Syahmedi Dean Contributor/Jakarta Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.

JP/18/top

JP/18/top Indonesia's top five fashion designers An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Syahmedi Dean Contributor/Jakarta Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.

JP/18/Q03

JP/18/Q03 Indonesia's top five fashion designers An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Syahmedi Dean Contributor/Jakarta Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.

JP/18/top

JP/18/top Indonesia's top five fashion designers An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Syahmedi Dean Contributor/Jakarta Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post "Building English Skills Through Newspaper + Radio" Produced by American Language Center in cooperation with The Jakarta Post and Radio Sonora FM 100.9 Mhz * The English of eight-year-olds presents a special challenge to any non-native speaker talking with them. You'll have a chance to test your powers of comprehension if you tune in tonight: an assault wave of JIS Second-Graders visits Radio Sonora FM100.9! * We're on at 8:15 this evening, and it's a wild ride.

On the need for a female president

On the need for a female president The Jakarta Post reported Wednesday, Nov. 19 that Abdurrahman Wahid (popularly known as Gus Dur), chairman of the powerful Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) organization, said that it is time for a female president. It is rather unfortunate that he did not give a reason. Why does he suddenly think that it is time for a female president, other than the fact that Islam does not bar women from state leadership?

Indonesia's top five fashion designers

Indonesia's top five fashion designers Syahmedi Dean, Contributor, Jakarta An increasing number of new designers have emerged in Indonesia. Five of them have enjoyed considerable media coverage this year. Despite the rapid development of international fashion in Indonesia throughout 2005, five Indonesian designers have successfully displayed consistency and continuity in their creations.

Foreign investors need legal certainty in Aceh

Banda Aceh, Aceh (ANTARA News) - Foreign investors hope that Aceh would provide legal certainty for investment in the province regardless of the fact that Aceh has recovered from regional conflict and the aftermath of the December 26, 2004 tsunami. US Consul General in Medan (North Sumatra) Stanly Harsha, said here on Saturday that Aceh needed legal certainty and better implementation of the Islamic sharia to attract international investment.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

On marrying Indonesian women

On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10. During a half-day seminar hosted by the Alida Center on Oct. 22 at the Gran Melia Hotel, this horrendous topic was clarified by Prof.

Buyat Bay case needs serious attention

Buyat Bay case needs serious attention The Buyat Bay issue has been a hot topic these past two weeks. However, no party has claimed responsibility for pollution in the bay. This country is suffering from an old illness: It cannot see the culprits even though it could -- if it wanted to. The issue started when a non-governmental organization discovered that a number of people living near the bay in South Minahasa district, North Sulawesi province, were suffering from skin diseases.

Comfort women an awkward issue

Comfort women an awkward issue Leo Wahyudi S., The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government's plan to introduce the issue of World War II "comfort women" to the school curriculum has failed to impress teachers. Advocates suggest the move will open students' eyes to a previously hidden episode of the war, while critics say they do not see any benefit in "opening up old wounds".

Who will command the Indonesian military?

Who will command the Indonesian military? Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The next person to fill the post of military chief has become the latest topic of discussion among senior officers as incumbent Adm. Widodo AS prepares to retire in November. Army Chief Gen. Endriarto Sutarto and the chairman of the military faction at the House of Representatives, Lt. Gen. Budi Harsono, said that only a four-star general who had a field career should be considered.

Corruption

Corruption The width and depth of corruption in Indonesia has recently been revealed in international business circles. It is also a topic within Indonesia itself and I am keenly following these discussions. Although I myself am very often the victim of practices of corruption, which in my small circles of movement is called korupsi kecil, my concern is the study of morality. Mr. Soegih Arto in his letter to The Jakarta Post on July 21 shows us both sides of the corruption coin.

Jimly on Polri Reform: Eight Perpol and 24 Perkap Regulations Must Be Revised

The Indonesian police reform commission led by Jimly Asshiddiqie calls for revising eight Polri regulations (Perpol) and 24 Kapolri regulations (Perkap) as part of ongoing reforms. The Commission has prepared recommendations for President Prabowo Subianto; meetings with the President are being scheduled before Eid al-Fitr. The discussions also cover police governance, Kapolri selection, and the deployment of officers to civilian roles, with four structural issues highlighted by Mahfud MD.

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;JP;WYS;CD; ANPAk..r.. Letter-marriage On marrying Indonesian women JP/7/let On marrying Indonesian women First of all, Keluarga Perkawinan Campuran Melalui Tangan Ibu (KPCMelati) would like to wish you and your distinguished readers celebrating Idul Fitri a Happy Idul Fitri 1426 H. Second, we would like to offer further clarification regarding: 1. Want to marry RI women? Pay Rp 500 m in deposit published in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10.

Seminar planned on Bali handicrafts

Seminar planned on Bali handicrafts The International Finance Cooperation Program for Eastern Indonesia SMEs (IFC-Pensa), together with the Indonesian Handicraft Association and Mitra Pengembangan Bisnis, will jointly hold a one-day seminar and workshop titled The Future of the Balinese Handicraft Industry, at Sanur Paradise Plaza Hotel on Jan. 28.

Unending accusations

Unending accusations Time and again Chichi Marti has written letters to The Jakarta Post with false accusations about the Dutch, Aboeprijadi Santoso and me. And time and again we have proven him wrong. But what is most striking is that most of these accusations are more like reflections of Chichi Marti's writings. He accuses the Post of misrepresenting the Indonesian side of colonial history but cannot objectively discuss the topic.

'Gardu' on 'Indosiar'

'Gardu' on 'Indosiar' On June 23, Indosiar televised a Gardu 30-minute program titled Quarreling All the Time, which was hosted by Emha Ainun Nadjib, better known as Cak Nun, and Gus Wahid. Syafi'i Ma'arif and Audi Wuisang were invited to appear on the program, and so were dozens of others. After the program, I was curious to figure out why only males were on Gardu.

Punishment for rapists

Punishment for rapists From Bisnis Indonesia Robbery combined with rape have caused a great deal of anger among the public. A private radio station has aired a discussion on the topic and invited the public to comment by telephone. The general comment is that a harsher punishment is needed for rapists to deter such a crime. The maximum punishment is 12 years but it is very seldom that someone guilty of the crime is given the maximum sentence.

Opposition and democracy

Opposition and democracy The need for an opposition party has become a hot topic for debate lately among analysts and scholars of sociopolitical affairs. The issue was launched by Dr. Nurcholish Madjid during a seminar on Perspectives of Islam in Modern Indonesia, which was held in Jakarta on Monday last week. According to Cak Nur, as he is known, an opposition party is needed in Indonesia to nurture democracy, which is an unavoidable future requirement.

ISEI to discuss market economy

ISEI to discuss market economy JAKARTA (JP): Executives of the Indonesian Economists Association (ISEI) will discuss the emergence of a managed market economy in the 21st century at their 13th congress in Medan, North Sumatra, next month. ISEI announced over the weekend that the three-day congress, which will start on Oct. 10, will be attended by ISEI executives as well as academicians, people interested in economic issues and practitioners from the government and private sectors.

Heart patient has microsurgery

Heart patient has microsurgery JAKARTA (JP): A team of doctors from the United States and Indonesia on Thursday performed the first minimally-invasive micro-surgery on a heart patient at Gatot Soebroto Army Hospital. The team of doctors, led by Col. Sutopo M.D. from the hospital and Alex Zapolenski M.D. from the San Francisco Heart Institute, said that they are pleased with the results.

Free markets, violence and world progress

Free markets, violence and world progress By Arief Budiman SALATIGA (JP): When I visited the Australian National University last year, I had the opportunity to attend a seminar presented by Dr. Heinz Arndt. Professor Arndt is one of the most influential economists who helped shape the New Order economic policy. It was for his invaluable contributions that he received a medal of honor from President Soeharto recently. Though Arndt is now retired, he is still very active.

Chairul Tanjung Compares Muhammadiyah to CT Corp: Its Progress is Easier

CT Corp founder and chairman, Chairul Tanjung, praised Muhammadiyah's philosophy of serving the organisation rather than seeking personal gain from it, believing it contributes to the organisation's development. He highlighted Muhammadiyah's strong governance and suggested that modernising and becoming more open would further enhance its position as a leading global organisation.

President to press ahead with Russia visit: Hassan

President to press ahead with Russia visit: Hassan The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri will go ahead with her planned visit to Russia despite the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) epidemic and Iraq war, a cabinet minister says. Minister for Foreign Affairs Hassan Wirayuda said on Thursday that Megawati would leave on April 17 for a 10-day trip to Rumania, Russia and Poland to discuss the latest developments in Iraq and several bilateral issues.

Smoking ban becomes hot topic at Media Center

Smoking ban becomes hot topic at Media Center JAKARTA (JP): A smoking ban is one feature attracting attention at the Media Center set up for the coverage of the June 7 election at the Hotel Aryaduta, Central Jakarta. "Why is smoking banned here?" asked Hasbunal Arief of Media Indonesia. "Many journalists cannot work without cigarettes, especially when the poll campaign begins and the pressure grows," he added.

Nissan Navara PRO-4X Leaves a Positive Impression at IIMS 2026

At IIMS 2026, the Nissan Navara PRO-4X drew keen interest from visitors, who praised its rugged yet modern design and highlighted its strong torque and towing capabilities. Nissan Motor Distributor Indonesia noted ongoing discussion about a local launch, while the model’s ADAS and connectivity features were showcased; however, an official Indonesian market release date remains unconfirmed.

The Internet offers much, much more

The Internet offers much, much more By Hendarsyah Tarmizi, The Jakarta Post With the power of the Internet, you can access information on thousands of companies around the world in almost all business fields in a matter of seconds. Online business directories offer more advantages than paper directories. They are much more up-to-date. Unlike paper directories, which are published every one to two years, the online variety can be updated instantly.

RI scientists win prestigious award

RI scientists win prestigious award Zora Rahman, Contributor, Jakarta When industry can get advantage of a scientific research, there is usually a sponsor to find. With this intention the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Europes biggest applied research institutes, awarded the First DAAD-Fraunhofer Technopreneur Award in Life Sciences 2003.

Hot and bothered about you-know-what on TV

Hot and bothered about you-know-what on TV JAKARTA (JP): When I was about 12 and my father was away on a business trip, my mom told me one day that he would have something to tell me when he got back. Well, I understood what she meant. The big talk about you-know-what. The birds and the bees. Why Harry wanted to meet Sally (and why Sally got all hot and bothered in the diner). What made Adam and Eve get into a lot of trouble over a little apple.

Corruption busters in Bali

The billions of dollars in state assets allegedly stolen by former president Soeharto, who died Sunday, could again become a hot topic of international debate during the United Nations conference on corruption beginning in Bali Monday. The Indonesian government, though notorious for being ranked by the Berlin-based Transparency International as one of the most corrupt governments in the world, is hosting the second UN conference on efforts to battle corruption.

Two RI scientists win fellowships in Germany

Two RI scientists win fellowships in Germany Zora Rahman Contributor Jakarta When industry can get advantage of a scientific research, there is usually a sponsor to find. With this intention the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Europes biggest applied research institutes, awarded the First DAAD-Fraunhofer Technopreneur Award in Life Sciences 2003.

Demands for change should be heard

Demands for change should be heard During the dialog that took place this week between World Bank president James D. Wolfensohn and a number of prominent Indonesian personalities, one topic stood out. Indonesian professionals at the meeting expressed disappointment with the World Bank saying the institution seemed to close its eyes to many of the problems afflicting the countries it was assisting, including Indonesia.

Innova steals limelight at Jakarta Show

Innova steals limelight at Jakarta Show Even before its public unveiling, about 14,000 units of the Toyota Kijang Innova had been ordered. This demonstrates just how enthusiastic the public is about the successor to the legendary Kijang, which first hit Indonesia's streets in 1977. Almost three decades later, the Kijang still rules the streets, with more of these vehicles on the roads than any other type of automobile.

AI Google NotebookLM Now Lets You Turn Research Materials into Cinematic Video

Google has expanded NotebookLM, its AI-powered learning platform, with a new feature named Cinematic Video Overviews, enabling users to convert research material into more immersive videos. Unlike the existing Audio Overviews and Video Overviews, Cinematic Video Overviews uses a new mix of Google's models, with Gemini acting as director to shape narrative, visuals and video format from user-supplied sources, and Nano Banana Pro and Veo 3 producing and assembling the final video. The rollout to other regions and lower-tier subscriptions has not yet been announced, and the feature will be accessible on both web and mobile.

Money politics

Money politics TPI television aired on May 13 its program Pro dan Kontra". Participating in the debate were Wardah Hafidz, coordinator of the Urban Poor Consortium (UPC), and Darma Setiawan Basri of Partai Daulat Rakyat (PDR, people's sovereignty party).

Compromise in politics

Compromise in politics Politicians, both in the legislative body and in political parties, should heed the proposal for a political compromise, a subject which has become a topic of public discourse recently.

Borobudur belongs to the world

Borobudur belongs to the world I have just returned from my now annual holiday in Yogyakarta with my (Indonesian) family. As always, we enjoyed the historical and cultural aspects of the city. Another reason for our visits is that the area is rich in spirituality. Unfortunately, our visit this time was severely marred by the materialism at one of the world's greatest treasures, Borobudur. I am not, however, referring to the hordes of hawkers with their cheap trinkets.

Prabowo orders measures to prevent BBM-LPG shortages ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the relevant ministries to anticipate shortages of BBM and LPG ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026. In a limited meeting with Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia and Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan, officials reported that energy and food stocks remain affordable and will be closely monitored to ensure supply and price stability through Eid.

The Indonesian art of criticizing

The Indonesian art of criticizing A long time ago, back in 1967, the Attorney General held a friendly meeting with the late Mahbub Djunaedi, from the Indonesian Press Association, to discuss a very interesting topic -- criticism in the Indonesian press. The personal opinion of the Attorney General at that time was, as conveyed to Mahbub, that he did not see any harm in criticism as long as it was constructive.

Surfing the Internet for business data

Surfing the Internet for business data By Hendarsyah Tarmizi The Jakarta Post With the power of the Internet, you can access information on thousands of companies around the world in almost all business fields in a matter of seconds. Online business directories offer more advantages than paper directories. They are much more up-to-date. Unlike paper directories, which are published every one to two years, the online variety can be updated instantly.

U.S. surgeons perform first less-invasive operation

U.S. surgeons perform first less-invasive operation JAKARTA (JP): A team of doctors from the United States and Indonesia yesterday performed the first minimally-invasive micro- surgery on a heart patient at Gatot Soebroto Army Hospital. The team of doctors, led by Col. Sutopo M.D. from the hospital and Alex Zapolenski M.D. from the San Francisco Heart Institute, said that they are pleased with the results.

PSKD Montessori Menteng

PSKD Montessori Menteng I refer to the article in The Jakarta Post, June 4, 1996, page three, entitled More superschools in the pipeline. I am concerned that you have missed the point why PSKD Montessori Menteng is being established. The school will strive for excellence in education, not to be a superschool. The founders recognize that Indonesian society is shifting to an industrial based economy.

Soeharto's trial

Soeharto's trial From Kompas Last January, the possibility that president Soeharto would be absolved became the hot topic. In the context of Soeharto's case, I would like to call on the authorities to settle the case immediately and permanently so that his children, grandchildren and so on will not be stigmatized by history.

Soeharto's trial

Soeharto's trial From Kompas Last January, the possibility that president Soeharto would be absolved became the hot topic. In the context of Soeharto's case, I would like to call on the authorities to settle the case immediately and permanently so that his children, grandchildren and so on will not be stigmatized by history.

'Becak' perplexes Cirebon administration

'Becak' perplexes Cirebon administration Nana Rukmana The Jakarta Post Cirebon The number of becak drivers operating in the West Java coastal town of Cirebon has increased drastically over the last three years, a researcher has revealed. "The influx of becak drivers from Jakarta has contributed to the situation," Abdullah Ali of the State-run Islamic Studies Institute (STAIN) in Cirebon said.

Martial arts trend in fitness industry

Martial arts trend in fitness industry JAKARTA (JP): Martial arts, the new trend in the fitness industry, was the hot topic at the fourth Reebok Innovasia fitness convention at Manggala Wanabhakti on Thursday. Fitness expert Fred Hoffman of France said during a media conference that martial arts entered the fitness industry in the early 1990s.

U.S. Senator to visit E. Timor

U.S. Senator to visit E. Timor JAKARTA (JP): Visiting U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell yesterday held an exchange of views with Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas concerning East Timor and human rights. "We just had a general exchange of views. I don't want to go into specifics," Senator Pell told journalists after meeting with Alatas here.

'The luckiest ex-dictator' 7 years on

'The luckiest ex-dictator' 7 years on Aboeprijadi Santoso, Amsterdam Like it or not, Soeharto is an item of hype. Whatever he did or didn't do can easily become a topic of public debate. While he reigned, it seemed as though his every statement was made into a headline. He has outlived many of his friends and foes, so when he fell ill recently he became a celebrity of sorts, emerging as a topic of spirited discourse among politicians, observers and journalists alike.

West Java Secretary Meets BKPM to Discuss Data Interoperability for Boosting Investment

West Java Provincial Secretary Herman Suryatman held an audience with the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) in Jakarta on Friday, 25 July 2025. Herman Suryatman and his West Java Provincial Government delegation were received by Deputy for Investment Climate Development Riyanto and Deputy for Investment Information Technology Ricky Kusmayadi.

'Becak' perplexes Cirebon administration

'Becak' perplexes Cirebon administration Nana Rukmana, The Jakarta Post, Cirebon The number of becak (pedicab) drivers operating in the West Java coastal town of Cirebon has increased drastically over the last three years, a researcher has revealed. "The influx of becak drivers from Jakarta has contributed to the situation," Abdullah Ali of the State-run Islamic Studies Institute (STAIN) in Cirebon said.

Asia-Europe experts to meet in Jakarta

Asia-Europe experts to meet in Jakarta JAKARTA: Around 250 high-profile environmental experts from Asia and Europe will gather this week in Jakarta to discuss energy, conflict, natural resource management and other issues, the Indonesian biodiversity foundation, Kehati, said. Titled "1/3 of Our Planet: What Can Asia and Europe do for Sustainable Development?", the conference, which will be held from Nov. 23 to Nov.

Viewers waking up to new breakfast TV show

Viewers waking up to new breakfast TV show By Bruce Emond Selamat Datang Pagi (Welcome the Morning); Hosts: Becky Tumewu, Ferdy Hasan; RCTI, 8 a.m. Weekdays JAKARTA (JP): It's hard to be heard amid the din of dangdut music shows on TV in the early morning hours, but breakfast television is finally making its appearance on local screens. There is already Dua Jam Saja (Two Hours) on state-run TVRI, with a mix of news, features, guests and a viewer call-in segment.

Free trade proposal reviewed

Free trade proposal reviewed JAKARTA (JP): Senior officials of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum yesterday reviewed a task force proposal calling for trade liberalization in the region by 2020. The second report of the Eminent Persons Group, created in 1992 with the task of developing a broad vision for trade in the region, ranked high on the agenda when the fourth Senior Officials Meetings (SOM) kicked off yesterday morning.

RI to discuss local communities' protection

RI to discuss local communities' protection JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's delegation to a upcoming international conference on biodiversity will discuss the collective rights of traditional communities. "The topic will cover indigenous and local communities' rights to their traditional knowledge, innovations and practices -- which our country has plenty of," Aca Sugandhy, the delegation's chairman said yesterday.

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia JP/7/let Papuans opt to stay with Indonesia I refer to Jusuf Wanandi's article entitled Papua problem and the international community (The Jakarta Post, Sept. 1,) about the so-called Act of Free Choice conducted by the Indonesian government in 1969, variously known in Papua as the Act of No Choice, Act Free of Choice, et cetera.

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia JP/7/let Papuans opt to stay with Indonesia I refer to Jusuf Wanandi's article entitled Papua problem and the international community (The Jakarta Post, Sept. 1,) about the so-called Act of Free Choice conducted by the Indonesian government in 1969, variously known in Papua as the Act of No Choice, Act Free of Choice, et cetera.

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia JP/7/let Papuans opt to stay with Indonesia I refer to Jusuf Wanandi's article entitled Papua problem and the international community (The Jakarta Post, Sept. 1,) about the so-called Act of Free Choice conducted by the Indonesian government in 1969, variously known in Papua as the Act of No Choice, Act Free of Choice, et cetera.

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia

Papuana opt stay with Indonesia JP/7/let Papuans opt to stay with Indonesia I refer to Jusuf Wanandi's article entitled Papua problem and the international community (The Jakarta Post, Sept. 1,) about the so-called Act of Free Choice conducted by the Indonesian government in 1969, variously known in Papua as the Act of No Choice, Act Free of Choice, et cetera.

PDI debate producer sues SCTV for Rp 500m

PDI debate producer sues SCTV for Rp 500m SURABAYA (JP): An employee of the SCTV private television station is suing the station for allegedly dismissing him after he produced a controversial political debate. Supandi Syahrul told The Jakarta Post here on Thursday that he filed suit at the Surabaya District Court, demanding Rp 500 million in damages. He said he has engaged top lawyer Trimoelja D. Soerjadi and his colleagues, Nur Badriyah and Luh Putu Susila, to represent him in the case.

Fit and Proper Test at Parliament: OJK Prepares Capital Market Reforms and Tightens Free Float Requirements

During a fit and proper test hearing for an OJK board commissioner candidate at Parliament's Commission XI, regulators outlined capital market reforms in response to market turbulence triggered by MSCI's assessment and widespread "penny stock" manipulation. The OJK plans to raise the minimum free float requirement from 7.5 per cent to 15 per cent in 2026, which is expected to require over Rp 200 trillion in additional public shareholding across Indonesia's capital market. The reforms address long-standing discussions between the OJK and Parliament regarding stock market standards and investor protection.

Ignorance and hostility a fatal combination

Ignorance and hostility a fatal combination Although often incorrectly labeled waria -- an acronym from wanita (woman) and pria (man) -- transsexuals are not necessarily homosexuals. Nor are they transvestites who are men with a phobia for cross-dressing. For true transsexuals the need to become totally male or female can be a life-and-death matter -- literally.

Spotlight

Spotlight Photo A: CIDES JP/Agus Y. Ranu TRAGIC TOPIC: Head of the Center for Information and Development Studies (CIDES), Adi Sasono (left) looks on as the dean of the School of law at Trisakti University, Adi Andojo, signs on a cloth opening a photo exhibition, Ranjau Darat (Land Mines) at Taman Ismail Marzuki on Nov. 25. The exhibition was a collaboration of CIDES with the International Communique of the Red Cross and Trisakti.

How to detect cancer early

How to detect cancer early Dear Sirs, I welcome the new health column in The Jakarta Post which first appeared on Aug. 2, 2000. My late husband had colon cancer but received treatment too late. Therefore, I want to know more about cancer, particularly how to detect it early. I would like to ask several questions related to the topic in your first article (on Aug. 2): 1.

A silent majority

A silent majority An eye-catching headline marked the front-page of The Jakarta Post of March 27, reading Muslim majority urged to rise and speak out. The report highlighted a discussion between foreign ambassadors and a group of prominent religious and community leaders held in Jakarta on March 26. Muhammadiyah, as the second largest Muslim group in the country, can congratulate itself on the fact that it was brave enough to sponsor this unique event.

Solution still far on Spratlys

Solution still far on Spratlys BUKITTINGGI, West Sumatra (JP): An end to the decades-long disputes over the Spratly and Paracel Islands in the South China Sea remains a remote hope requiring great patience and effort to bring about. An expert predicted yesterday that a long road lay ahead because the concerned parties are only now beginning to learn to cooperate among each other.

Government denies magazine report

Government denies magazine report JAKARTA (JP): Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Alwi Shihab dismissed on Thursday a media report which claimed that President Abdurrahman had been asked by Malaysia to mediate in the establishment of ties between Kuala Lumpur and Tel Aviv. Alwi decried as baseless a report in the Hong Kong-based Far Eastern Economic Review magazine which in its Dec.

RI and Kuwait to boost ties

RI and Kuwait to boost ties JAKARTA (JP): President Abdurrahman Wahid (right) is escorted by Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah after the two held talks on Tuesday in Kuwait City on improving ties between the two countries. During his visit, Abdurrahman held talks with the Kuwaiti Emir and Prime Minister Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah. Abdurrahman expressed optimism about Kuwaiti government and business community interest in investment in Indonesia.

Indonesia and Russia Explore Energy Cooperation Following Prabowo's Visit

Jakarta, VIVA – Indonesian Minister of Investment and Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Bahlil Lahadalia, has revealed several key outcomes from President Prabowo Subianto’s recent working visit to Russia. Speaking at the Jakarta Geopolitical Forum IX/2025 on Tuesday (24 June), the minister said that Russia has expressed strong interest in helping Indonesia boost its domestic oil lifting capacity.

Govt denies pulling plug on TV show

Govt denies pulling plug on TV show JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Information Muhammad Yunus denied yesterday speculation that he ordered the private Indosiar TV station to abruptly halt a political talk show on freedom of expression on Monday night. "No one from my ministry made any call to Indosiar," Yunus told reporters shortly before attending a Cabinet meeting at Bina Graha presidential office. "Just ask the station.

Veteran shuttlers set

Veteran shuttlers set up badminton community Novan Iman Santosa Jakarta Despite the fact that the nation's badminton players have brought pride to their country, many of them still fall victim to racial discrimination. As a result, a group of veteran players established the Indonesian Badminton Community (KBI) on Saturday to improve the athletes' welfare once their heyday in the court is over. "The idea has been around since 1977.

Veteran shuttlers set up badminton community

Veteran shuttlers set up badminton community Novan Iman Santosa, Jakarta Despite the fact that the nation's badminton players have brought pride to their country, many of them still fall victim to racial discrimination. As a result, a group of veteran players established the Indonesian Badminton Community (KBI) on Saturday to improve the athletes' welfare once their heyday in the court is over. "The idea has been around since 1977.

On racism

On racism Having read Rosaline's article in The Jakarta Post on June...., 2000 titled Expat racism, I find she seems to be a bit racist herself by what she writes. I sympathize if someone has treated her unfairly. However, she is obviously laden with her own personal paranoias about "foreigners" or "bules" ... the mere fact that she has to mention her level of education and ..."bules" (derogority Indonesian term for white people).

Ministry of Culture Ready to Support the Advancement of Indonesian Music

The Indonesian Ministry of Culture, led by Fadli Zon, vows to support cultural development including music, outlining alignment with the Cultural Advancement Act. He suggests proposals on copyright law to give composers ownership of their songs and aims to foster a fair ecosystem involving creators, singers, producers, labels, and other stakeholders, with potential collaboration with ASII (Aksi). The move intends to elevate Indonesian music to international stages akin to the Korean Wave, emphasising collective management and direct licensing rights.

Institutions, culture and economy

Institutions, culture and economy It is saddening to read the letter of Mirna Mutiara Govt must protect all communities in The Jakarta Post of Aug. 24 in which it is written that Indonesians of Chinese descent who are oppressed are victims, instead of as a result of something and that every effect has a cause.

Institutions, culture and economy

Institutions, culture and economy It is saddening to read the letter of Mirna Mutiara Govt must protect all communities in The Jakarta Post of Aug. 24 in which it is written that Indonesians of Chinese descent who are oppressed are victims, instead of as a result of something and that every effect has a cause.

Institutions, culture and economy

Institutions, culture and economy It is saddening to read the letter of Mirna Mutiara Govt must protect all communities in The Jakarta Post of Aug. 24 in which it is written that Indonesians of Chinese descent who are oppressed are victims, instead of as a result of something and that every effect has a cause.

Institutions, culture and economy

Institutions, culture and economy It is saddening to read the letter of Mirna Mutiara Govt must protect all communities in The Jakarta Post of Aug. 24 in which it is written that Indonesians of Chinese descent who are oppressed are victims, instead of as a result of something and that every effect has a cause.

Viral 'Mokel' Phenomenon During Ramadan: What It Is and Its Ruling in Islam

The Javanese term 'mokel', referring to secretly breaking the Ramadan fast before the appointed time, has become a trending search topic in Indonesia ahead of the fasting month. Prominent Islamic scholar Buya Yahya has weighed in, declaring the practice a grave sin while outlining the nine categories of people legitimately exempted from fasting, and urging those who have broken their fast without valid reason to repent and make up the missed days.

Festive crowds watch Clinton romphome in election win

Festive crowds watch Clinton romphome in election win JAKARTA (JP): In a gathering resembling a festive gala, the United States Information Service (USIS) and the American Chamber of Commerce hosted an election watch of yesterday's U.S. presidential elections. The election watch began at 7 a.m. at the Hilton Hotel's Golden Ballroom, which was festooned with red, white and blue decorations. Despite the early hour, visitors flocked to the election watch.

Prabowo summons several ministers to Hambalang, what’s going on?

President Prabowo Subianto convened five meetings with ministers from the Red-and-White Cabinet at his private Hambalang residence. The discussions ranged from Eid al-Fitr homecoming security to the expansion of science-and-technology campuses, improvements to state universities, and Indonesia’s Middle East geopolitics, including a programme for Palestinian students at Universitas Pertahanan.

Hermaphrodite baby shocks a Bogor village

Hermaphrodite baby shocks a Bogor village BOGOR (JP): Alan, also known as Triwulan, has become a hot topic in the past few months among villagers of Sukadamai in West Bogor. The nine-month-old baby has both male and female genitalia. According to her mother, Sriwati, 27, she and her husband, Ulung Sukmala, 30, a scavenger, had tried their best to seek help from local doctors and dukun (sorcerers) for their first child.

When can we resume business?

When can we resume business? By Steve Sondakh JAKARTA (JP): With Indonesia now in the fourth year of its multidimensional crisis, we feel more helpless than ever. To make matters worse, we have no way of knowing when we can work, carry out political activities and lead our lives without being jolted by rumors, rallies, the declining exchange rate of the rupiah and a host of other problems. Uncertainty shadows us because of the following: (1) Uncertainty in the enforcement of the law.

Letter to Betawi society

Letter to Betawi society From Bisnis Indonesia The argument that the next governor of Jakarta should come from the native people (Betawi) has become a daily topic among Betawi people. Even the Betawi Consultative Body (Bamus Betawi) as the parent body of Betawi society, through its conference held some time ago, has firmly recommended that the next governor of Jakarta should hail from the Betawi society.

Letter to Betawi society

Letter to Betawi society From Bisnis Indonesia The argument that the next governor of Jakarta should come from the native people (Betawi) has become a daily topic among Betawi people. Even the Betawi Consultative Body (Bamus Betawi) as the parent body of Betawi society, through its conference held some time ago, has firmly recommended that the next governor of Jakarta should hail from the Betawi society.

Jakarta to host int'l telecom expo, meeting

Jakarta to host int'l telecom expo, meeting JAKARTA (JP): An international telecommunications exhibition, called Asia-Pacific Telecom '97, will be held from Nov. 29 to Dec. 3 at the Jakarta Fairgrounds in Kemayoran. The event will feature a conference, ministerial roundtable and panel discussions, secretary-general of the Ministry of Tourism, Post and Telecommunications, Jonathan L. Parapak, said.

Economists meet to discuss economic reconstruction

Economists meet to discuss economic reconstruction JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Economists Association (ISEI) will discuss the country's economic reconstruction in its ninth plenary session opening at the NAM Center in the Kemayoran area here today. The two-day session will bring together ISEI executives from its 41 branch offices nationwide, as well as academicians, those interested in economic issues and practitioners from the government and private sector, the group announced yesterday.

Soeharto confirmed to attend G-15 summit next month

Soeharto confirmed to attend G-15 summit next month JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto will attend the summit of the Group of 15 (G-15) developing countries in Egypt next month, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas said yesterday. Besides attending the summit the President also intends to pay a state visit to Egypt, Alatas said.

40 SYLFF scholars meet at UI

40 SYLFF scholars meet at UI Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Depok Some 40 recipients of the Tokyo Foundation's Ryoichi Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Fund (SYLFF) are meeting at the University of Indonesia (UI) in Depok, West Java, to exchange ideas on various issues, including the environment.

Journalists asked to use conscience in reporting

Journalists asked to use conscience in reporting JAKARTA (JP): A respected Moslem scholar has called on journalists to use their conscience in their work. "Journalists should consult their conscience so that they know how far they can go in writing a story," Nurcholish Madjid of Paramadina Foundation said in a discussion here over the weekend.

Some ASEAN countries said mellowing on APEC trade group

Some ASEAN countries said mellowing on APEC trade group CHIANG MAI, Thailand (Reuter): Some Southeast Asian nations are warming to the idea of trade liberalization within the Asia- Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum now that proposals on trade appear less rigid, a senior Thai official said yesterday.

Indonesian for foreign speakers

Indonesian for foreign speakers During the Fourth International Conference of Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (KIPBIPA IV), which took place recently in Bali, I noticed a great deal of progress, both in content as well as the choice of location. Currently, the teaching of the Indonesian language to foreign speakers has altered substantially, not just in method but also context.

International Women's Day: Herbalife highlights nutrition

Herbalife marks International Women's Day 2026 by highlighting the double burden of malnutrition among women in the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia, emphasising obesity alongside anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies. The GiveToGain campaign promotes daily nutrition choices and protein and iron intake to support long-term wellbeing, with guidance on iron absorption and the risk of sarcopenia for women in their forties.

Archeological sites' destruction lamented

Archeological sites' destruction lamented SEMARANG (JP): An archeologist over the weekend lamented the nationwide destruction of historical sites to make way for industrial projects. Mundardjito, a lecturer of archaeology and anthropology at the University of Indonesia, said the incidence of sites converted into industrial projects showed that historical sites were considered less important than industrial development, which promises prosperity.

Prabowo Summons Former Presidential Communication Office Head Hasan Nasbi to Palace

President Prabowo Subianto summoned former Presidential Communication Office (PCO) head Hasan Nasbi to the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Thursday, 12 March 2026, marking the second such meeting in four days. Nasbi claimed ignorance of the agenda and stated he was unaware of the capacity in which he was being invited, though he has not ruled out a potential return to government. Nasbi was previously removed from his position as PCO head in September 2025 during a cabinet reshuffle but has since been appointed as a commissioner at state-owned PT Pertamina.

Indonesian Manpower Laws

A topic close to my heart and probably very little interest to anybody else is the current situation with Indonesia’s manpower regulations. You would think a country that enjoys such a large population and an abundance of natural resources would be a world leader. Unfortunately to the distress of many, (both local and expat) this is not the case. The reasons for Indonesia not achieving it’s full potential are so complex I could not hope to cover all the reasons here.

NAM ministers to decide on new leaders in Cairo

NAM ministers to decide on new leaders in Cairo JAKARTA (JP): Foreign ministers of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) will meet in Cairo next Tuesday to discuss which member nation will replace Indonesia as chairman next year. Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas said here on Tuesday that he will go to the Egyptian capital after attending a meeting of the Indonesia-Malaysia Joint Commission in Kuala Lumpur on May 28.

On Java Jazz

On Java Jazz This letter is in response to the article Jazz fashionable again on Java in festival's wake in The Jakarta Post on March 9. Rarely have I seen such a pretentious, elitist and agist article on what should be an unpretentious and all-encompassing subject. Jazz. For one thing, calling the adults' taste "dour" and "sartorial" is completely inaccurate, mainly due to the fact that there was no jazz at the jazz festival that could be considered "dour" or "sartorial".

Trade Minister to Seek Explanation from Village Minister Regarding Restrictions on Modern Retail in Villages

The Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, stated that he will seek clarification from the Minister of Villages, Yandri Susanto, regarding the latter's intention to regulate the expansion of modern retail in villages. This follows discussions among ministers, including Yandri Susanto, about the impact of modern retail on village cooperatives.

Ban on foreign broadcasts

Ban on foreign broadcasts Early every Thursday morning, starting at 5:30 a.m., I am used to listening to the Voice of America (VOA) talk show on TV channel Indosiar. The show is very interesting and highly informative. On Thursday Aug. 29, the show featured an interview with an Indonesian scholar studying for her PhD at the University of Maryland on a topic titled: What are the factors impeding (the progress of) the women's emancipation movement in Indonesia?

'Buah Bibir' TV program

'Buah Bibir' TV program From Media Indonesia RCTI presented an interesting show entitled Apakah Harus Bercerai (Should divorce be the solution) during the station's talk show program Buah Bibir (fruit of the lips) on Monday, March 31, 1997, hosted by Debra H. Yatim. I would like to state my opinion and some suggestions in connection with the topic discussed. Of course, the problems of Mrs. Susi and her children (guests on the show) weigh heavily on them.

CSIS launches books on Indonesian politics

CSIS launches books on Indonesian politics JAKARTA (JP): The Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) launched two books yesterday, on Indonesia's confrontations in the early 1960's and the need to revitalize the country's political system. Konfrontasi Revisited, Indonesian Foreign Policy Under Soekarno, written in English, is by political scientist J. Soedjati Djiwandono.

Debates on serious subjects

Debates on serious subjects In recent months The Jakarta Post daily has been able to publish controversial topics for debate, which is an opportunity for readers to express themselves freely. This to me represents good characteristics of any standard modern newspaper in the world. I particularly appreciated contributions by the Post's readers on street insults directed at foreigners, what others simply label "racism".

Value education

Value education The presence of Simon Marcus Gower's articles in The Jakarta Post, the most recent one appearing on March 15, has greatly increased the value of this esteemed paper. All his articles to this date have discussed various educational policies. At the recent eighth UNESCO-Asia Pacific Program of Education Innovation for Development held in Bangkok, the topic of discussion was the value of education. An Indian delegate at the conference, J.S.

KONI set to review its Asian Games target

KONI set to review its Asian Games target JAKARTA (JP): The National Sports Governing Body's 1990 program to jack up Indonesia's position to the top four in Asia by the year 2002, might be too optimistic, an official said.

Wuling Highlights Indian Pick-up Imports, Calls for Optimisation of Local Products

Wuling Motors has commented on the government's plan to import trucks and pick-up vehicles from India for use by the Desa Merah Putih cooperative. The company argues that the Indonesian automotive industry is capable of meeting the needs of PT Agrinas, with several domestic manufacturers already producing commercial vehicles and having established supply chains and local workforces.

Mega to push for multilateralism at UN General Assembly

Mega to push for multilateralism at UN General Assembly Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri will remind the world of the dangers of unilateralism when she addresses the United Nations General Assembly annual session on Sept. 23 in New York.

Mega to push for multilateralism at UN General Assembly

Mega to push for multilateralism at UN General Assembly Fabiola Desy Unidjaja The Jakarta Post Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri will remind the world of the dangers of unilateralism when she addresses the United Nations General Assembly annual session on Sept. 23 in New York.

Is Tempeh Really Capable of Triggering Hormonal Disturbances in Men?

A nutrition expert from IPB University explains that tempeh contains phytoestrogens with chemical structures similar to estrogen but not hormones. He notes that phytoestrogen levels in tempeh are lower than in other soy products, and that fermentation aids digestion; tempeh's nutritious profile—including protein, vitamin B12, iron and fibre—makes it a healthy, safe option for men and suitable for vegetarians and vegans when prepared properly and consumed in moderation.

Teenagers trained to be critical in making purchases

Teenagers trained to be critical in making purchases JAKARTA (JP): A warning for manufacturers: do not cheat the consumers with misleading labels. And for retailers, do not sell products after the use-by date. Consumers, always in a weak position and victims of retailers' delinquencies, are no longer unrepresented. Those who will raise their voices and demand their rights are not necessarily lawyers. Teenagers will now do that.

PPP to organize seminar on discipline

PPP to organize seminar on discipline JAKARTA (JP): The Central Jakarta branch of the United Development Party (PPP) plans to conduct a series of activities in conjunction with the commemoration of the city's 468th anniversary on June 22 and of the country's 50th Independence Day on Aug. 17. H. Hasan Dasy, chairman of the party's Central Jakarta branch, told reporters yesterday that the activities will comprise a one- day seminar, collective wedding ceremony and a free-of-charge computer course.

In this era of globalization, a formal university education is

In this era of globalization, a formal university education is often not enough to land a good job. This is why professional courses offering additional skills ranging from languages to computers are mushrooming. These professional courses are the topic of this week's Focus Issue, and the article below is one of three stories to explore the topic. English courses doing good business Joko E.H.

Summit to discuss ASEAN single market, Thailand, Myanmar

Summit to discuss ASEAN single market, Thailand, Myanmar Martin Abbugao, Agence France-Presse, Vientiane Accelerating regional economic integration, unrest in Thailand, terrorism and Myanmar's political problems are expected to dominate the annual summit of Southeast Asian leaders in Laos.

Educators need to adapt to reality of globalization

Educators need to adapt to reality of globalization Mark Conners, Global Partners Education Consultant, Bandung markconners295@hotmail.com The world is struggling to adapt to the reality of globalization. In this new era, national borders are blurred by instant interaction and information sharing. If the ASEAN economy collapses, it impacts western countries. If there is a terror attack in New York, the rest of the world instantly feels the effects.

Count to 100 to escape trouble

Count to 100 to escape trouble JAKARTA (JP): A former U.S. President prayed before being sworn in, "Lord, please keep my big mouth shut until I know what I am talking about." He had a very good reason for saying the prayer. Embarrassment or even serious problems can stem from a careless word. However, blunders are sometimes unavoidable. When you are angry or excited, you're apt to say something without thinking.

Megawati off to attend ASEAN summit

Megawati off to attend ASEAN summit Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri left for Brunei Darussalam on Sunday to attend the 7th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit. The two-day summit will kick-off on Monday and is expected to adopt a broad declaration condemning terrorism, following the Sept. 11 attacks against the United States.

It's our traditional courteousness

It's our traditional courteousness On the second day of a Language Seminar held by Lembaga Bahasa of American Indonesian Institution (LIA), from July 1 through July 3, I joined a presentation conducted by Mr. Paul Hudson cs., titled East vs West: Cross-cultural communication and examination of cultural differences for the purpose of enhancing EFL education. Basically, this topic is not something new being discussed within the LIA educational service circle.

President adamant he is fully in charge

President adamant he is fully in charge The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono responded to critics who claim he is indecisive by pointing to a number of prompt decisions he has made in the course of his presidency in the last 10 months.

Success on the menu for Toastmasters

Success on the menu for Toastmasters By Paul Franks JAKARTA (JP): When thinking about the communication skills of medical practitioners, the first thing that comes to mind is the undecipherable scribble that appears on most doctor's prescriptions. Unfortunately for the majority of pharmacists and patients the priority of Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, founder of Toastmasters International, was on improving verbal communication. In 1924 in California, U.S. Dr.

Prabowo Invites Former Presidents and Party Leaders to Dinner to Discuss Global Geopolitics

President Prabowo Subianto has invited former presidents, former vice presidents, and party leaders to a dinner at Istana Merdeka to discuss global geopolitics and other issues. Attendees include SBY, Jokowi, Jusuf Kalla, Boediono, and Maruf Amin, with NasDem and PAN leaders describing the gathering as a Ramadan goodwill event ahead of Idulfitri.

East Timor slips off UN agenda again

East Timor slips off UN agenda again JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's permanent ambassador to the United Nations, Nugroho Wisnumurti, has expressed confidence that the tripartite talks on East Timor will eventually lead to the topic being removed from the UN agenda. "When the tripartite talks have achieved their purpose, the item on East Timor on the UN General Assembly's agenda will be removed," he said as quoted by Antara in New York.

'O Channel' looking for INXS frontman

'O Channel' looking for INXS frontman Remmy Faizal, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta The O Channel, a lifestyle television station in Jakarta, plans to broadcast the search for a new INXS frontman in July, O Channel managing director Meuthia Kasim said. Legendary rock band INXS is looking for a new vocalist to replace the late Michael Hutchence and is turning its search into a reality show.

Open forum to discuss APEC future path

Open forum to discuss APEC future path JAKARTA (JP): Economists, businessmen, scholars and officials will gather at a one-day open discussion at the Dai-Ichi Hotel here on Nov.14 to discuss the future direction of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

Chinese Guangdong Business Delegation Expresses Serious Interest in Cilegon Port Investment

CILEGON – A business delegation from Guangdong Province, China, has expressed serious interest in investing in the port sector, particularly in the construction of Warnasari Port, a strategic project of the Cilegon City Government. During a meeting facilitated by the Cilegon City Government on Tuesday (27/5/2025), the Chinese entrepreneurs stated their interest, primarily due to Cilegon’s position as an industrial city with significant logistics potential.

'Architecture of Bali', comprehensive in detail

'Architecture of Bali', comprehensive in detail Damaso Reyes, Contributor, Bali It was while I was sitting in the courtyard of my newly rented house in Bali that I came to really appreciate the new book by Made Wijaya, Architecture of Bali: A Source Book of Traditional and Modern Forms.

Anti Corruption Commission Requires Centralized Bank Customer Database

Anti Corruption Commission Requires Centralized Bank Customer Database Thursday, 14 September, 2006 | 16:39 WIB TEMPO Interactive, Batam: The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged Bank Indonesia (BI) to create a centralized bank customer database in order to facilitate investigations into corruptors’ assets. Taufiequrachman Ruki, Head of the KPK, said that so far law enforcers have experienced difficulties in finding evidence as a basis on which to sue corruptors.

Yesterday's Headlines: From Ghost in the Cell to Vietnam Digital Payment Technology Cooperation

ANTARA's daily news roundup highlights several stories from Tuesday, most notably Indonesia's exploration of digital payment technology cooperation with Vietnam through a strategic meeting between PT Tasi Venture Indonesia and Alliex Vietnam. The digest also covers the enthusiastic reception of Joko Anwar's film "Ghost in the Cell" at the 2026 Berlinale festival.

Wife of East Kalimantan Governor's Outfit Criticised Amidst Rp8.5 Billion Official Car Controversy, Netizens: 'Thought She Was a Dutch Lady'

The wife of the Governor of East Kalimantan, Sarifah Suraidah, has faced criticism for her attire after a video of her meeting a vegetable vendor went viral. This occurred amidst public debate regarding the planned purchase of an Rp8.5 billion official car for her husband, with some netizens comparing her style to that of a 'Dutch lady' from the colonial era and questioning the necessity of the expensive vehicle.

Indonesia, Japan commerce talks on currency swap pact

Indonesia, Japan commerce talks on currency swap pact Dow Jones, Tokyo Indonesia and Japan have kicked off negotiations to conclude a bilateral currency swap agreement as part of an initiative among Asian nations to promote financial stability in the region, an international financial source said Tuesday, Kyodo News reported.

Prabowo Holds Meeting at Hambalang, Discusses Lebaran Migration and Geopolitics

President Prabowo Subianto convened five separate cabinet meetings at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, on 8 March 2026, where he received updates on multiple strategic government priorities. Discussions encompassed the development of ten new STEM and medical education campuses, international geopolitical developments in the Middle East, support for Palestinian students in Indonesia, and preparations for the anticipated surge in Lebaran holiday travel.

Asia, Africa seal deal to work on tsunami early warning system

Asia, Africa seal deal to work on tsunami early warning system The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Asian and African leaders agreed on Saturday to set up national early warning systems to minimize the effects of tidal waves, following last year's killer tsunami that claimed over 200,000 lives. A total of 89 heads of state/government, ministers and officials endorsed plans for the development of a coordinated regional system on the two continents.

Ganesha helps promote local culture

Ganesha helps promote local culture By Yenni Kwok JAKARTA (JP): A cosmopolitan community can sometimes enhance the appreciation of the local culture. How so? The Indonesian Heritage Society is an example. Known as Ganesha Volunteers until 1995 the Indonesian Heritage Society is a nonprofit organization that promotes and generates interest in Indonesian culture. It has attracted 500 members from 34 countries.

Babies' basic needs interest Utami most

Babies' basic needs interest Utami most Emmy Fitri, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Not all doctors will sit down together with their patients' parents to talk about the illness and answer any questions the anxious parents might have. But at St. Carolus Hospital in Central Jakarta, seeing pediatrician Utami Roesli give a talk-show-like consultation to her newborn patients' parents is a common sight. And the session doesn't look dull at all.

Ramadan Fasting Intentions: Arabic, Latin, Indonesian, Javanese, and Their Meanings

As Ramadan approaches, discussions about the intention (niat) for fasting have become a popular topic. The article explains the importance of intention as the foundation of obligatory fasting, providing the texts for reciting the intention in Arabic, Indonesian, and Javanese. It also clarifies the appropriate time for reciting the intention and addresses differing opinions among scholars regarding reciting the intention for the entire month.

Brunei postpones plans to sign regional antiterror pact

Brunei postpones plans to sign regional antiterror pact Agence France-Presse, Phnom Penh Brunei put off plans at the last minute on Monday to accede to a Southeast Asian agreement to help combat the terrorism threat in the region, citing legal problems. "We need a little more time due to domestic legal procedures to be resolved," a Brunei official said minutes before the scheduled accession of the kingdom to the Agreement on Information Exchange and Establishment of Communication Procedures.

Prabowo and national figures discuss Middle East impact on BoP

A palace meeting chaired by President Prabowo gathered former presidents, vice presidents, foreign ministers, ministers, state agency leaders and business representatives to assess the impact of Middle East tensions—particularly the Iran war—on Indonesia’s balance of payments and policy options. Wirajuda said the president used the forum to spotlight escalating Gulf tensions and potential spillovers, with participants weighing implications for global security, the economy and oil and gas supplies, and the role of the UN’s rule-based order.

TV soap operas portray Betawi folk as dumb: Pundit

TV soap operas portray Betawi folk as dumb: Pundit Bambang Nurbianto, Jakarta Many sinetron (TV soap operas) portray Betawi people in a bad light, and mislead viewers, because they only show one aspect of the native Jakartan, an expert says. Head of the Anthropology Department at the University of Indonesia (UI), Yasmine Shahab, told a press conference on Wednesday that nearly all TV dramas on Betawi people and their culture depict them as stupid and backward.

Usage of laser medicine gains popularity in RI

Usage of laser medicine gains popularity in RI JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's medical practitioners are expanding the usage of laser treatment, according to one ophthalmologist. Rumita S. Kadarisman, the chairman of Indonesian Society for Laser Medicine, told the press yesterday that to further boost laser treatment the organization will sponsor a one-day seminar on July 22.

Cooperation needed in Marsinah case

Cooperation needed in Marsinah case JAKARTA (JP): The police, military police and East Java Prosecutor's Office have been warned against covering up the May 8, 1993, murder of labor activist Marsinah. A member of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM), Koesparmono Irsan, said in Surabaya over the weekend the three institutions should be cooperative and transparent with each other now that the case has been reopened. "It's clear that there was a murder and a murderer.

DJP Overhauls 0.5% Final Income Tax Rate for UMKM

Indonesia's tax authority says it has not completed revising Presidential Regulation No. 55/2022, governing the 0.5% final income tax for UMKM. The revision, expected to take effect in 2026, has been delayed due to administrative procedures and awaits review by the Finance Minister and presidential signature; officials say the regime remains in place while the process continues.

Former Bima Police Chief Demanded Alphard from Subordinate as 'Punishment'

Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro allegedly demanded a Toyota Alphard vehicle from his narcotics unit head, AKP Malaungi, as "punishment" after Malaungi failed to suppress public exposure of Didik's receipt of Rp1.8 billion in payoffs from a drug dealer. The National Police Criminal Investigation Department has enlisted the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) to trace the flow of funds within the corrupt network.

Snap Elections or Extension of Regional Assembly Terms: Which is More Appropriate?

Following the Constitutional Court's decision to separate national and local elections from 2029, policymakers are weighing two options for bridging the transition period: extending regional assembly (DPRD) terms or holding snap elections.

Sexual attitude

Sexual attitude If we are discussing sexual attitudes in Indonesia today, let's set the record straight. After having read yet another article pertaining to this topic in Sunday's The Jakarta Post on Aug. 20, 2000, again western influence bears the brunt. If that being the case, are we saying that Indonesians cannot make up their own minds and decisions on how to control and monitor their own preconceptions and beliefs on moral standards?

Former Bima Kota Police Chief Demanded Alphard from Subordinate

Former Bima Kota police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro allegedly demanded a Toyota Alphard from his narcotics unit head, AKP Malaungi, as "punishment" after Malaungi failed to suppress public exposure of Didik's Rp1.8 billion in payoffs from a drug dealer. Investigators have engaged PPATK to trace the financial flows, with Rp2.85 billion in illicit funds reportedly handed over in staged transactions disguised in suitcases, paper bags, and beer cartons.

[POPULAR AUTOMOTIVE] Agrinas Agrees to 900 Isuzu Trucks, Jaecoo J5 Sells 14,000 Units

Agrinas has agreed to purchase 900 Isuzu trucks, in addition to deals with Indian manufacturers. Jaecoo Indonesia has recorded over 14,000 pre-orders for its J5 EV model since its launch in November 2025, with over 4,000 units already delivered. Isuzu Astra Motor Indonesia has responded to Agrinas' statement that local manufacturers are unable to meet the vehicle needs for the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih program, stating that they never rejected or were unable to support the program.

Police to quizz house member

Police to quizz house member Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Jakarta Police are to summon Trimedya Panjaitan, a House of Representatives member from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), as a witness in the murder of his secretary, Nung Yuningsih, 35, alias Nungky. City police chief, Insp. Gen. Firman Gani, said on Thursday that Trimedya would be questioned about when he had last had any form of contact with Nungky.

Immigration centers planned to deter illegal workers

Immigration centers planned to deter illegal workers JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Manpower Abdul Latief says he is considering the establishment of immigration centers along Indonesian border points to help process Indonesians intending to work in Malaysia. These "center points" would provide fast services for workers in obtaining their travel documents as well as the necessary work permits, Latief told The Jakarta Post yesterday.

Socializing federal state

Socializing federal state From Pikiran Rakyat I was impressed by the article in Pikiran Rakyat on Nov. 10, 1999, entitled The Concept of a Federal State and Amien Rais' performance, and would like to add some comments. First of all, I am very sad to learn of the controversy surrounding whether we have to retain the existence of a unitary state or consider the establishment of a federal state.

Pedicab and cart drivers rap with legislative councilors

Pedicab and cart drivers rap with legislative councilors YOGYAKARTA (JP): Many becak (pedicab) and andong (horse-drawn cart) drivers were seen mingling with lawyers, journalists, students and social activists yesterday in the first rap session held by the local legislative council. The newly inducted members of the council held their first "morning coffee break" at the council building's Lobby Room where ordinary people were invited to speak their minds.

Curriculum more than subject list

Curriculum more than subject list By Mochtar Buchori JAKARTA (JP): Educating students about human rights became a topic of discussion recently. It was argued that students should receive instruction in human rights to make society more mindful towards problems of human dignity. The problem is how to incorporate this particular topic into an already swollen curriculum. This kind of discussion, typical to Indonesia, comes up every time someone feels the need to add a new subject to the curriculum.

Everyone eligible to become VP

Everyone eligible to become VP From Suara Karya In the run-up to the special session of the People's Consultative Assembly, who will be the vice presidential candidates has become a hot topic of discussion, particularly among legislators. That people find this matter of great interest is quite natural in view of the following: 1. President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid's administration has failed to implement something very significant to the people, to borrow from Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

Decentralization in the health sector?

Decentralization in the health sector? By Rita A. Widiadana JAKARTA (JP): Decentralization is a hot topic in the health sector. It is relieving for many but others welcome it rather pessimistically. In the national congress on epidemiology, organized jointly by the National Epidemiology Network (JEN) and Atmajaya Catholic University, held here from Nov. 7 through Nov.

ASEAN delegates pass Hanoi draft on wealth disparity

ASEAN delegates pass Hanoi draft on wealth disparity HANOI (AFP): ASEAN delegates on Wednesday ended three days of talks and passed a draft resolution aimed at resolving the growing wealth gap between member countries, officials said. A communique issued after the meeting said the Hanoi Declaration on ASEAN was passed but details would not be released until a later date.

History lesson

History lesson From Merdeka Sutan Ali Asli's article '5 Juli, 38 tahun yang lalu' (July 5, 38 years ago) published in Merdeka on July 5, 1997 serves as a reminder and enriches our perception. In historical terms, July 5, 1959 is always an interesting topic of discussion in academic circles. More so when we compare the 1945 Constitution with the 1950 Provisional Constitution. Each has their positive and negative aspects.

Mixed couples face citizenship woes

Mixed couples face citizenship woes Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Having a baby can be costly, but while Maya Miranda Ambarsari was ready to pay for the basics, she was unaware of the excessive complexity that marks registering the birth of a baby born to a mixed couple here. After recovering from the delivery of her son via caesarean section, Maya and her expatriate husband were shocked to find bills and fines awaiting them, totaling Rp 15 million (US$1,630).

Police hunts for perpetrators behind pornographic pictures

Police hunts for perpetrators behind pornographic pictures Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Internet users have been bombarded recently with pornographic pictures of a local female TV soap star and a rock band guitarist, which have become a hot topic on local gossip shows and made headlines in several newspapers and tabloids. In the face of the hype, the Jakarta Police cyber crimes division has opened an investigation to uncover the "real perpetrators" of the widely distributed pictures.

Crisis center established to help domestic violence victims

Crisis center established to help domestic violence victims JAKARTA (JP): The establishment of a women's crisis center might be good news for some, but bad news for the cynics. It is good news for those who, in their confusion and pain of enduring domestic abuse, have no one to turn to. Cynics, however, might lament that a crisis center, after all, is established to intensify the deep wounds caused by domestic violence. Domestic violence is a public secret.

Let's Talk It Over

Let's Talk It Over One cannot but admire the U.S. First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton. She could really relax and enjoy the privileges and luxuries that go along with the august office of the president of the world's most powerful nation. Instead, she chooses to trot around the globe to get a first-hand account of the peoples' lives all over. The Talk It Over column by HIllary Clinton, featured every Sunday, is a welcome addition to The Jakarta Post.

Trending on Social Media: What Are the Obligations of LPDP Scholarship Recipients?

Indonesia's LPDP scholarship programme, operated by the Ministry of Finance, has come under social media scrutiny following backlash against a recipient's comments suggesting her children need not hold Indonesian citizenship.

Talk radio tunes in to listeners' concerns

Talk radio tunes in to listeners' concerns People turn on the radio not only to listen to music, but also to follow the latest news and current issues discussed in talk shows. The Jakarta Post reporter T. Sima Gunawan observes the trend in conjunction with the country's 54th Radio Day on Saturday. Related stories on Page 3. JAKARTA (JP): The man's voice was emotional. "The military is behind the East Timor unrest," he declared fervently.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Strengthens Teacher Competencies in Utilizing IFP in the Classroom

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is committed to ensuring the maximum utilization of Interactive Flat Panels (IFP)/Interactive Digital Boards (PID) in classrooms by organizing training webinars for teachers. The initiative is part of efforts to accelerate digital transformation in education through the optimization of IFPs that have been distributed to schools.

Indonesian mediation offer stands amid Middle East conflict

Indonesia said it is ready to mediate in the Middle East conflict if the warring parties seek mediation, with President Prabowo and the Foreign Affairs Ministry offering to facilitate talks. Iran expressed skepticism about mediation’s impact but said it would keep Indonesia informed, while the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iran and Iran retaliated against US bases in the region. Jakarta emphasises its willingness to bridge differences to promote regional stability and peace.

Overhaul on child abuse law urged

Overhaul on child abuse law urged JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian law on child sexual abuse is not adequate to handle the increasing rate of the crime, experts said yesterday. Irwanto, a senior researcher specializing in the problem of street children at Atmajaya Catholic University, said the definition of child abuse in the Criminal Code is biased because the age limit for sexual consent is 15, while the Marriage Law stipulates that the minimum age for women to get married is 16.

IDB meeting calls for greater ties between Asia and Latin America

IDB meeting calls for greater ties between Asia and Latin America Agence France-Presse, Ginowan, Japan The Inter-American Development Bank wrapped up its annual meeting here on Tuesday with calls to boost economic ties between Asia and Latin America, regions increasingly linked by China's soaring growth and demand for raw materials.

Satelindo's third Palapa satellite ready in 2 years

Satelindo's third Palapa satellite ready in 2 years JIMBARAN, Bali (JP): PT Satelindo, the private telecommunications operator, is planning to launch its third satellite system -- Palapa C3 -- within the next two years. Company president Saleh Gunawan said here yesterday that the satellite system, which would probably be renamed, was designed to serve more than 100 digital services covering Indonesia, China and India.

Residents of Semarang ask, Zheng who?

Residents of Semarang ask, Zheng who? Suherdjoko, The Jakarta Post, Semarang Despite the plan to grandly celebrate the 600th anniversary of Zheng He's journey around the world, the majority of Semarang students and residents are still uninformed on the great Chinese explorer. The anniversary will be celebrated in Semarang between 1 and 7 Augusts in Sam Poo Kong Temple, Tay Kak Sie Temple and the Central Java's Trade and Promotion Fair in Marina Beach in the city. "I don't know who is Zheng He.

Residents of Semarang ask, Zheng who?

Residents of Semarang ask, Zheng who? Suherdjoko, The Jakarta Post, Semarang Despite the plan to grandly celebrate the 600th anniversary of Zheng He's journey around the world, the majority of Semarang students and residents are still uninformed on the great Chinese explorer. The anniversary will be celebrated in Semarang between 1 and 7 Augusts in Sam Poo Kong Temple, Tay Kak Sie Temple and the Central Java's Trade and Promotion Fair in Marina Beach in the city. "I don't know who is Zheng He.

How to address Megawati's husband

How to address Megawati's husband From Kompas In the article Tiga Hari Bersama RI-3 (Three Days with RI-3) in Kompas dated Aug. 14 on Taufik Kiemas, the husband of President Megawati Soekarnopurti, he was referred to as RI-3 by the staff members of the State Secretariat. As a former lecturer (unsalaried) in the School of Social and Political Studies of the University of Indonesia in Rawamangun, Jakarta.

How to address Megawati's husband

How to address Megawati's husband From Kompas In the article Tiga Hari Bersama RI-3 (Three Days with RI-3) in Kompas dated Aug. 14 on Taufik Kiemas, the husband of President Megawati Soekarnopurti, he was referred to as RI-3 by the staff members of the State Secretariat. As a former lecturer (unsalaried) in the School of Social and Political Studies of the University of Indonesia in Rawamangun, Jakarta.

JP/17/SIDE

JP/17/SIDE Artists discuss harmony, old age YOGYAKARTA: Pitoe Gallery is to facilitate a discussion on the Rights, Existence and Potency of Older Women on Aug. 7, here. The topic also relates to the current exhibition at the gallery titled Harmony Sejati (True Harmony). According to gallery director Purwadmadi Admadipura, the event is aimed at finding alternatives for older women, including ways that they can stay active and participate in community events.

President Habibie skips APEC summit

President Habibie skips APEC summit JAKARTA (JP): President B.J. Habibie will not attend this weekend's summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Auckland, in what is seen as a snub to host New Zealand for its criticism of Indonesia's handling of the situation in East Timor. "The meeting is not significant enough for the President to be present," Minister/State Secretary Muladi said when announcing Habibie's decision not to travel to New Zealand for the summit.

Mar'ie: Provinces must be given the widest possible autonomy'

Mar'ie: Provinces must be given the widest possible autonomy' JAKARTA (JP): Former minister of finance Mar'ie Muhammad said on Thursday that he supported autonomy for the provinces as it would help avoid a repetition of the neglect experienced by provinces outside Java and Bali.

What should be done about 70% of women experiencing violence at work?

A 2022 ILO report shows 70.93% of Indonesian respondents have experienced workplace violence, yet official reporting remains low as many women fear consequences such as losing their jobs. Activists and corporate leaders call for safer workplaces, robust reporting channels, and enforcement of Indonesia's Sexual Violence Crimes Act.

Prabowo Invites Islamic Organisations to Iftar at the Presidential Palace Today

President Prabowo Subianto has invited several Islamic community organisations to break fast at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on 5 March 2026. The event, announced by the Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, may include discussions on Indonesia's position on the Board of Peace with leaders from various Islamic groups. The invitation extends to scholars and leaders from diverse Islamic backgrounds, and could serve as a forum for dialogue ahead of broader policy positions.

Rights commission to question govt on July 27 riots

Rights commission to question govt on July 27 riots JAKARTA (JP): The National Commission on Human Rights plans to question the government about the July 27 riots which occurred in Jakarta last year, following official statements that proclaimed the case was closed. Commission deputy chairman Marzuki Darusman said yesterday that the topic would be raised during the periodic meeting the commission holds with Coordinating Minister for Political Affairs and Security Soesilo Soedarman.

Tax reform on the back burner

Lawmakers put tax reform on the back burner Rendi Akhmad Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Lawmakers and tax officials are in no hurry to push through the much-anticipated reform of the country's tax regime, even as time runs out for its completion this year. While the pornography bill is the hot topic in the legislature, House Commission XI on financial affairs has yet to begin deliberation of proposed amendments to three tax laws aimed at helping lure badly needed investment into the country.

Developers need to exchange data

Developers need to exchange data JAKARTA (JP): State Minister of Environment Sarwono Kusumaatmadja called yesterday for better exchanges of information between real estate developers in order to prevent conflicts of interest. "There's nothing wrong with large-scale development, but if megaprojects are centered in one area, such as Greater Jakarta, there are bound to be conflicts over spatial arrangements, water sources and pollution control," he said.

Australia to hold mining expo in Jakarta

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Australia`s mining expertise will be on show at OZMINE 2011, Austrade`s largest international mining exhibition and conference in Asia, which will be held in Jakarta at the Shangri La Hotel on 29 - 30 March 2011.

Lessons from the quake

Lessons from the quake Lessons can be learnt from the strong earthquake which hit Jakarta Monday. The disaster left neither casualties nor serious construction damage but people -- who are always appreciative of such an outcome in any calamity -- were quick to express their gratitude to God. The following day the topic on everyone's lips was their feeling of panic after the quake which registered 6.0 on the Richter scale -- a rare and electrifying experience.

On free exchange system

On free exchange system This letter is intended as a response to Mr. Rachmat Basoeki Soeropranoto's letter 'Abolish free exchange system' from Merdeka as published by The Jakarta Post on Sept. 14. First of all, I would like to duly suggest that I, too, am not very excited about the idea of a free exchange system in conjunction with the anticipated APEC era. To my mind, in fact, many developing countries like Indonesia may not be the propitious benefactors of such an all-out business environment.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights States Child of Viral LPDP Scholarship Recipients Remains an Indonesian Citizen

The Ministry of Law and Human Rights has stated that the child of a couple who received an LPDP scholarship and went viral on social media remains an Indonesian citizen. This follows concerns raised about the child allegedly obtaining a British passport, despite the parents still holding Indonesian citizenship. The Ministry is investigating the matter and will coordinate with the British Embassy to verify the child's citizenship status.

A rotten apple decays a bushel

A rotten apple decays a bushel The army commander's efforts to investigate Agus Wirahadikusumah and Saurip Kadi must be understood as part of the Indonesian Military (TNI) internal reform. Salim Said is wrong to say that the army commander must not busy himself with Agus and Saurip Kadi as this is an unproductive matter. I am a military observer (not an expert), but let me try to express my comments: 1.

Clinton raises human rights, Korea with President Jiang

Clinton raises human rights, Korea with President Jiang JAKARTA (Reuter): U.S. President Bill Clinton and Chinese President Jiang Zemin are in broad agreement over keeping the Korean peninsula nuclear free but old differences over human rights remain, U.S. officials said yesterday. They said Korea was the main topic as the two presidents met on the eve of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, expected to form the world's largest free-trade zone.

'Boxing' legislators bury the hatchet

'Boxing' legislators bury the hatchet Fabiola Desy Unidja and Abu Hanifah, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Embarrassed by Thursday's brawl at the opening session of the People's Consultative Assembly, legislators ducked for cover whenever the incident was raised on Friday. They said they did not want to hear it discussed again in public because all the involved lawmakers had agreed to bury the hatchet and forgive each other.

Italy supports NAM's push for UN reforms

Italy supports NAM's push for UN reforms By Meidyatama Suryodiningrat and Santi W.E. Soekanto BANDUNG, West Java (JP): The Non-Aligned Movement's efforts to reform the United Nations Security Council have gained the support of Italy, which is itself proposing a similar idea. In an interview with The Jakarta Post yesterday, Italy's permanent representative to the UN, F.

Candra Naya relocation is legal violation

Candra Naya relocation is legal violation Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Anyone who tries to relocate the Candra Naya building will face the legal consequences, officials at the Ministry of National Education said on Friday. Anhar Gonggong, the ministry's deputy for history and archeology, said that although regional autonomy had been implemented, the city administration could not simply violate Law No. 5/1992 on Cultural Property.

Councillors worried about salaries

Councillors worried about salaries Yuliansyah, The Jakarta Post, Banjarmasin After briskly voting South Kalimantan Governor Sjachriel Dahram out of office, provincial councillors there are now expressing worries that they will not receive their monthly salaries for September.

President Prabowo to Implement Presidential Instruction to Save Sumatran and Bornean Elephants

President Prabowo Subianto is preparing a Presidential Instruction (Inpres) to address the critical decline in Sumatran and Bornean elephant populations and habitats, with the number of elephant habitat pockets having shrunk from 42 to approximately 21. The policy, announced by Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni, will involve establishing elephant corridors across plantation areas and improving habitat connectivity to prevent inbreeding and species extinction.

OJK Leadership Selection Intensifies Amid Capital Market Turmoil and Governance Concerns

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is under intense scrutiny following recent capital market volatility and management departures at the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in early 2026. The DPR Commission XI conducted a Fit and Proper Test on 11 March 2026 for OJK board commissioner candidates, including Ary Zulfikar and Danu Febrianto, with emphasis on market transparency, enforcement effectiveness, and restoring public and investor confidence in the capital markets.

Kennedy a rabblerouser: Marzuki

Kennedy a rabblerouser: Marzuki JAKARTA (JP): An Indonesian human rights activist has branded United States Congressman Patrick Kennedy a rabble-rouser for his reported plan to introduce a bill to cut off U.S. aid to Indonesia. Alleged human rights abuses in East Timor, which Kennedy used as the basis for his campaign, has been a hot topic recently, Marzuki was quoted by Antara as saying yesterday.

A call for cooperation

A call for cooperation I have enjoyed reading the wide views on colonialism recently expressed by Mr. Richardson, Mr. de Kort, Mr. de Jong, and lately Ms. Nanny Djali. The degree of emotion raised by this debate among all the writers indicates that strong feelings about this topic still exist, nearly half a century after its apparent end in Indonesia.

Megawati's position in jeopardy: Amien

Megawati's position in jeopardy: Amien The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Nationwide protests against the steep rise in fuel, electricity and telephone prices have led to a plot by President Megawati Soekarnoputri's political opponents to depose her after less than two years in office. Whether they are serious is still too early to judge, as lawmakers had previously agreed to maintain Megawati in power until she was due to end her term in 2004.

San Francisco Consul-General: KIRA could be a 'game changer' for education

The Indonesian Consul-General in San Francisco says KIRA, an AI-powered English language training app, could be a game changer for improving foreign language proficiency and boosting the competitiveness of Indonesian children, especially in disadvantaged regions. Developed by the non-profit organisation BERCERITA, the platform combines student interns from California with Silicon Valley mentors to support national education initiatives and widen access to technology-based learning while ensuring safe, relevant content.

YLBHI lawyers see Xanana, but find language barrier

YLBHI lawyers see Xanana, but find language barrier JAKARTA (JP): Lawyers from the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) were finally allowed to see convicted East Timor rebel leader Jose Alexandre "Xanana" Gusmao yesterday, but talks about preparing a new trial was bogged down by a language barrier. The lawyers, led by executive director Adnan Buyung Nasution, were permitted to see Xanana at the Cipinang Correctional Institution in East Jakarta in their third attempt for the past two weeks.

Undip Student Attacked by Mob, DPR Commission X Highlights Violence-Prevention Rules

DPR Commission X deputy chairman Lalu Hadrian has urged a government review of violence-prevention rules in educational settings after a mass assault involving 30 Undip students against a fellow student, Arnendo. He argued that current Permendikbudristek provisions may be too weak and should be strengthened, potentially via new legislation, with discussions to continue after Eid al-Fitr. The issue also involves prior harassment allegations against Arnendo that were reported to campus authorities.

Foreign investors 'need level playing fields'

Foreign investors 'need level playing fields' Riyadi Suparno, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Harassing foreign investors is never a good thing, moreover in times of a poor investment climate. The best advice would probably be to offer fair treatment and a level playing field. According to U.S. Treasury Assistant Secretary Randal K.

Two new parties running autonomy issue

Two new parties running autonomy issue Eva C. Komandjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Departing from the popular platforms of religion or nationalism, two new parties are highlighting regional autonomy in their campaigns. But because this is a less popular topic their campaigners are selective in the issues raised with specific audiences.

Specifications of the East Kalimantan Governor's Official Car, Priced at IDR 8.5 Billion

The new official car for the Governor of East Kalimantan, Rudy Mas'ud, with a budget of IDR 8.5 billion, has attracted public attention. The vehicle is a high-performance 3.000 cc plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV with premium off-road capabilities, likely a variant of the Range Rover Autobiography LWB PHEV or a similar luxury SUV model. It features a 3.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor and a 38.

Inflammatory article emerges bitter past

Inflammatory article emerges bitter past I refer to the article Dutch treat: Who pays for the pain? published in The Jakarta Post on Aug. 8. Because of the writer's professionalism he seems to be allowed to publish opinions which would otherwise be censored and may even be prosecuted.

AI Robots Set to Dominate Workforce, Human Workers' Future in Jeopardy

Artificial intelligence robots are predicted to displace human workers across industries as companies prioritise profitability and operational efficiency. Citi Global Insights forecasts that AI robot numbers will reach 1.3 billion units by 2035, potentially exceeding 4 billion units thereafter, marking the largest workforce shift in modern history.

U.S. journal to publish Indonesian literature

U.S. journal to publish Indonesian literature JAKARTA (JP): An American literary journal has announced that it will devote its year 2000 summer issue to literature from Indonesia with John H. McGlynn, editor-in-chief of the Lontar Foundation of Jakarta, serving as the journal's guest editor. Manoa, which is published by the University of Hawaii Press, and its guest editor have chosen "Silent Voices, Muted Expressions" as the theme for the issue.

Lisa Blackpink Praises Fried Rice and Satay While Filming TYGO in Indonesia

Blackpink member Lisa has praised Indonesian cuisine, particularly fried rice, noodles and satay, during a livestream interaction with fans whilst filming the Netflix film TYGO in Indonesia. The K-pop star's endorsement is expected to significantly boost Indonesia's culinary tourism and cultural diplomacy internationally, with her massive global fanbase amplifying the reach of Indonesian gastronomy.

Why NU Continues to Use Hilal Sighting to Determine the Start of Ramadan

Nahdlatul Ulama has reaffirmed its commitment to the rukyatul hilal (direct moon sighting) method for determining the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, rejecting the Single Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT) which bases its calculations on hilal data from Alaska. NU's falakiyah (Islamic astronomy) expert Ahmad Izzuddin argued that religious obligations are bound by local geography and time, making distant astronomical observations irrelevant for Indonesian worship practices.

President Prabowo Holds Five Meetings at Hambalang Residence

President Prabowo Subianto convened five separate meetings with cabinet ministers at his residence in Hambalang, Bogor on 8 March 2026. The meetings covered diverse strategic topics including development of ten new science and technology-focused universities, advancement of existing higher education institutions, the Middle East situation, Palestinian students studying in Indonesia, and security arrangements for the forthcoming Eid holiday exodus.

Deyana may or may not quit Asiad

Deyana may or may not quit Asiad The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Sandry Liong, a wushu martial arts hopeful, is most likely to abandon his dream of participating in the Asian Games, and the Indonesian contingent is facing another exit with female shuttler Deyana Lomban threatening to quit.

Ismail warns officials' children

Ismail warns officials' children JAKARTA (JP): Children of senior government officials may not be barred from going into business but they should know their place, said the chairman of the United Development Party. The children of officials should not be "greedy" and use their parents' positions to boost business, Ismail Hasan said on Saturday.

'Sutiyoso has tough job'

'Sutiyoso has tough job' Today's topic is the performance of Governor Sutiyoso, but it was interesting that many civil servants at City Hall refused to comment on the governor, whose term ends in October. Some agreed to be interviewed, but asked The Jakarta Post not to print their names. Most of them said they were afraid they would be "in danger" if their identity was known.

Thuggery Cases Disrupting Investors Have Significantly Declined, Says Deputy Investment Minister

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Deputy Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Todotua Pasaribu said that cases of thuggery disrupting investors have significantly declined. “Every week our colleagues from the regional police chiefs provide reports, and the situation has greatly improved now,” said Todotua in Jakarta on Thursday. He said the government is firmly cracking down on thuggery problems that disturb the investment climate in the country.

Teen pregnancy a serious problem

Teen pregnancy a serious problem JAKARTA (JP): Marriage is a serious topic of discussion. But it could also be fun, especially if it involves teenagers, as was demonstrated on Wednesday during a talk about teen marriage.

Indonesia has many potential leaders: Roeslan

Indonesia has many potential leaders: Roeslan JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia, with a population of over 195 million, has a large base of potential leaders, and thus should not be dependent on one figurehead alone. Roeslan Abdulgani said here on Saturday that the country should not fear the future, because its large population and revolutionary history provides fertile ground for the birth of leaders.

Indonesian Trade with China Rises, Despite Fears of Tough Competition

When Chinese President Hu Jintao visits Indonesia May 17, the free-trade agreement between China and its neighbors in Southeast Asia will be a major topic of discussion. Some labor groups in Indonesia want the government to cancel the agreement. At a rally in Jakarta, the National Workers Union voices opposition to the free trade agreement between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Clarification on the GEF grant

Clarification on the GEF grant The Mining policy may lead to lower grants article published on Oct. 22 was evidently based on discussions during and after the recent Country Dialogue Workshop on the Global Environment Facility (GEF) held in Jakarta. It quoted statements from our Senior Biodiversity Specialist, Dr. Kathy MacKinnon. The article covers several important issues related to Indonesia's future ability to attract funds from the GEF and other donors.

Rumors of governor's dismissal make rounds in Aceh

Rumors of governor's dismissal make rounds in Aceh The Jakarta Post Jakarta Rumors have been making the rounds in Aceh that Governor Abdullah Puteh will be dismissed for his failure to control the war-torn province. Antara news agency reported on Saturday that the rumored dismissal had become a hot topic of conversation among locals.

Rumors of governor's dismissal make rounds in Aceh

Rumors of governor's dismissal make rounds in Aceh The Jakarta Post Jakarta Rumors have been making the rounds in Aceh that Governor Abdullah Puteh will be dismissed for his failure to control the war-torn province. Antara news agency reported on Saturday that the rumored dismissal had become a hot topic of conversation among locals.

Foreign investors

Foreign investors The address delivered by John Arnold, chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia, on Jan. 18 at Hotel Sahid Jaya in Jakarta was published in The Jakarta Post on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29: Attracting new investment in Indonesia. I was grateful to the Post for printing this important address. The speech gave so many tips worthy of comment and quotation that it will have to suffice to quote just a number of these tips for immediate comment.

U.S. backs UN probe into Timor bloodshed

U.S. backs UN probe into Timor bloodshed Agencies, Washington The United States on Wednesday welcomed creation of a joint Indonesia-East Timor commission on the 1999 bloodshed in the former Portuguese colony, but made clear the necessity of a separate UN inquiry as well. U.S. officials said coordination of the efforts was the key topic at a meeting here of Secretary of State Colin Powell, Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirayuda and his East Timorese counterpart Jose Ramos Horta on Wednesday.

Ways and means of fighting 'envelope journalism'

Ways and means of fighting 'envelope journalism' Anett Keller Leipzig, Germany I read the stories about bogus journalists in The Jakarta Post's edition of March 20 with great interest. Press officers from companies and the bureaucracy apparently feel terrorized by crowds of wartawan tanpa surat kabar ("journalists without newspapers"), as bogus journalists are often called, a word play on an Indonesian abbreviation for prostitutes.

Media, PR officers responsible for eradicating 'envelope' journalism

Media, PR officers responsible for eradicating 'envelope' journalism Anett Keller, Leipzig, Germany I read the stories about bogus journalists in The Jakarta Post's edition of March 20 with great interest. Press officers from companies and the bureaucracy apparently feel terrorized by crowds of wartawan tanpa surat kabar ("journalists without newspapers"), as bogus journalists are often called, a word play on an Indonesian abbreviation for prostitutes.

Let peace prevails in the subcontinent

Let peace prevails in the subcontinent Kashmir has now become a central topic and there are the letters of Mr. Abdula Ghalib, Mr. Prabhakar, Mr. Masli Arman, and Mr. R. Chitrapu. As mentioned by Mr. Chitrapu (The Jakarta Post, June 17, 1996), India is a time tested democracy since 1947, where decisions are made after many deliberations and ratified by a vote. Thus, any decision made by India on Kashmir is democratic and reflects the will of the people of India.

G-15 vows to improve members' welfare

G-15 vows to improve members' welfare JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas said yesterday the Group of 15 nations (G-15) is reflecting on how to take a leading role in helping to promote the welfare of developing countries. Responding to press queries on the apparent decline in interest from member states, Alatas said discussions on G-15's strengths and weaknesses had begun.

Special Economic Zone Investment Surpasses 2024 Target at Rp90.1 Trillion

JAKARTA — Investment Minister and BKPM Head Rosan Roeslani stated that investment realisation in Special Economic Zones (KEK) surpassed the 2024 target, reaching Rp90.1 trillion against a target of Rp78.1 trillion. “KEK realisation throughout 2024 was Rp90.1 trillion, exceeding the target set for 2024 of Rp78.1 trillion. So we surpassed the 2024 target,” Rosan said at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Tuesday (22/7).

Govt hinders natural acculturation

Govt hinders natural acculturation Harry Bhaskara, The Jakarta Post, Semarang Abdul Djamil throws stones at shop windows like everyone else in the anti-Chinese mob. When he goes home, another mob spots him walking leisurely along the street and someone shouts: "There's a lost Chinese." In a panic, Djamil retorts: "Allahu Akbar" (God is great), and he is left alone, the mob believing he is not of Chinese descent. The above incident occurred in Semarang in the 1980s.

RI rejects foreign research on Papua, Aceh

RI rejects foreign research on Papua, Aceh The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government has announced a plan to restrict foreign researchers' access to conduct field work in Papua and Aceh, saying that many came with intentions other than academic goals that could amount to an interference in Indonesia's domestic affairs.

Press told to address potential social unrest

Press told to address potential social unrest JAKARTA (JP): Instead of waiting for violent outbreaks, potential conflict simmering beneath the nation's ethnic and cultural foundations should be addressed by the media, senior journalists and a sociologist agreed on Tuesday. They agreed that over the past three decades, the media had swept all potential problems under the carpet, never opening public spheres for discourse over the issues.

Long-Term Investment for Gen Z, Gold Becomes the Most Popular Choice

Generation Z in Indonesia is increasingly engaging in long-term investment, with data from the Indonesia Central Securities Depository (KSEI) showing that 54.12% of capital market investors are under 30 years old.

Sports minister wants boxing to continue

Sports minister wants boxing to continue JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Hayono Isman shrugged off yesterday calls for an end to boxing in Indonesia following the a death of a boxer last week, saying that the sport would continue. "Don't seek a scapegoat for the accident. We know boxing is as risky and tough as parachuting, white water rafting and other dangerous sports," Hayono said during a meeting with chairman of the Indonesian Boxing Commission, Hendropriyono, yesterday.

`I'd like to raise their child as mine'

`I'd like to raise their child as mine' Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Titin, 42, mother of Dwi Santia -- who was brutally raped and killed by a serial kidnapping gang -- demanded capital punishment for all the suspects in the case, but asked the police if she could legally adopt one of the suspect's children. "The rest of the family are no doubt savages but their child is innocent. I want to adopt the child as an exchange for my daughter," Titin told The Jakarta Post on Monday.

Macroeconomic targets need revising: Neiss

Macroeconomic targets need revising: Neiss JAKARTA (JP): Macroeconomic assumptions of the International Monetary Fund's economic reform program for Indonesia will have to be adjusted due to the country's worsening situation, IMF Asia Pacific director Hubert Neiss admitted yesterday. "Yes, we have to make adaptations in the macroeconomic framework to the new situation that unfortunately is even weaker than before," he told media following a 45-minute meeting with President B.J. Habibie.

[POPULAR AUTOMOTIVE] Agrinas Invites Japanese and Chinese Brands, Users of Tiggo 8 CSH

Agrinas, an Indonesian company, has invited Japanese and Chinese automotive brands to participate in a tender for supplying vehicles, but ultimately decided to import 105,000 pickup trucks from India. The Chery Tiggo 8 CSH, a plug-in hybrid SUV, is gaining popularity among Indonesian families seeking environmentally friendly vehicles with spacious cabins.

Family planning evolution in RI

Family planning evolution in RI Aya Hirata Kimura, Contributor, Jakarta People, population and policy in Indonesia Terence H. Hull, ed Equinox Publishing 208 pp, Hardcover A few years ago when I was in eastern Java, I was struck by the casual way in which Indonesians would often ask, "What do you use for KB?" -- even in a seemingly conservative rural area.

IMF focuses on budget, monetary policy review

IMF focuses on budget, monetary policy review JAKARTA (JP): The International Monetary Fund (IMF) technical team here to review Indonesia's macroeconomic development is focusing on the country's budget and monetary policy, IMF Asia Pacific director Hubert Neiss said yesterday. He added, to the media after meeting the country's economic ministers, that the other two topics were financial restructuring and structural reforms. "I will stay for two to three weeks...

Rupiah's response satisfactory: Sjahril

Rupiah's response satisfactory: Sjahril TOKYO (Dow Jones): The rupiah's response to Friday's increase in interest rates on all maturities of Sertifikat Bank Indonesia money market instruments was satisfactory, and the central bank stands ready to adjust interest further if needed to stabilize exchange rates, Bank Indonesia (BI) Governor Sjahril Sabirin said yesterday.

E. Timor not on ASEM agenda: Alatas

E. Timor not on ASEM agenda: Alatas JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas maintained yesterday that East Timor would not be discussed at next month's Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) because it was considered an extraneous issue and irrelevant to the core topic of the summit. Alatas said ASEM leaders had agreed since their first summit in Bangkok in 1996 to exclude the issue from the meeting's agenda since there was a separate forum to discuss East Timor.

On the Shelves

On the Shelves Bagaimana Perkawinan Bertahan dari Perselingkuhan (How a marriage survive from infidelity); By Charlotte Latvala, et. al.; Pinkbooks, March 2003; 103pp Many surveys have been conducted in the past few years on Indonesians' lifestyles and one of the results is quite shocking. Many admit that they have cheated on their spouses, with most blaming a lack of communication as the main cause. And the number has been increasing.

Find me a job or I'll turn pro: La Paene

Find me a job or I'll turn pro: La Paene JAKARTA (JP): National amateur boxer La Paene Masara demanded the Indonesian Amateur Boxing Association (Pertina) find him a job or he would turn professional. The 27-year-old boxer said on Monday that he would not hesitate to leave the Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asian (SEA) Games training program if Pertina could not get him a job. He said he had asked the body for a job since 1997. "I'm not thinking about the training program now.

BYD Factory Construction Disrupted by Organised Thuggery, Drawing International Attention

Thuggery by mass organisations (ormas) targeting BYD has once again become a topic of discussion, with the issue now reaching Chinese media outlets. Recently, news of disruptions to the construction of BYD’s factory in Subang, West Java, has spread as far as China. “In Indonesia, the dream of becoming Southeast Asia’s electric vehicle (EV) hub collides with an age-old enemy: organised crime groups known as preman,” wrote the South China Morning Post on Tuesday (6 May).

Financial Forecast for the Year of the Fire Horse 2026: Beware of Risks Behind Great Opportunities

Jakarta, VIVA – The financial forecast for the Year of the Fire Horse 2026 has become a widely searched topic ahead of the Chinese astrological calendar transition. The combination of the Horse zodiac and the Fire element is believed to bring strong, dynamic, and highly ambitious energy. In the 60-year cycle, the Fire Horse is known as a symbol of courage, rapid movement, and significant change.

Clueless expatriate gets baptism of fire

Clueless expatriate gets baptism of fire Let me set the scene for you: a westerner with virtually no idea about the Indonesian language or culture (except for what she's gleaned from her pocket-sized Lonely Planet guide) jumps on a plane and heads to Jakarta. I mean, how hard could it be to adjust to a new country, I told myself somewhat hesitantly as the plane hit the runway. The answer, I soon discovered, was quite hard. My first error was my choice of dress.

Govt wary of people seeking political change

Govt wary of people seeking political change JAKARTA (JP): The government is on guard against people who take to the street and seek to overhaul the political system, a senior cabinet minister said yesterday. Minister of Defense and Security, Edi Sudradjat, reiterated that the government's policy is to tolerate demonstrations as long as they are peaceful and "not used by a third interest group".

Indonesia, Egypt share intelligence in war on terror

Indonesia, Egypt share intelligence in war on terror Agence France-Presse, Cairo Presidents Megawati Soekarnoputri of Indonesia and Hosni Mubarak of Egypt (photo above) discussed here Thursday how to improve sharing intelligence in fighting terror, Mubarak advisor Osama al-Baz said.

Muhammdiyah not interested in politics

Muhammdiyah not interested in politics SOLO, Central Java (JP): Muhammadiyah, the country's largest socio-educational organization, has no intention of getting involved in politics, its acting chairman says. Speaking at the meeting of the organization's policy-making body (Tanwir) yesterday, Amien Rais also said that the organization will never seek fleeting gains.

Prabowo invites Jusuf Kalla to attend Iftar at the Presidential Palace

President Prabowo Subianto has invited former vice president Jusuf Kalla to an Iftar gathering at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta. Kalla attends in his capacity as Chairman of the Dewan Masjid Indonesia, with other Islamic organisation leaders and heads of major pesantren invited to discuss issues including Indonesia's position on the Board of Peace; the event follows a February meeting about joining the Board of Peace and its implications for Palestinians.

The seminar could reopen old wounds of yesteryear

The seminar could reopen old wounds of yesteryear The government's plan to hold a seminar on Nawaksara, the late president Sukarno's accountability speech before the Provisional People's Consultative Assembly (MPRS) in 1966, has been further postponed until after next year's presidential election. Nawaksara, which means nine points or topics, was rejected by the assembly and resulted in Sukarno's dismissal as president.

Draft Assembly decrees must not be considered final: Experts

Draft Assembly decrees must not be considered final: Experts JAKARTA (JP): Constitutional law experts said on Tuesday that draft decrees completed for deliberation in the People's Consultative Assembly's (MPR) special session should not be considered final. Even if the United Development Party (PPP) faction lost in a vote on the Armed Forces representation in the House of Representatives, they should not be deterred from pressing the issue, the experts said.

Pillars of RI economy

Pillars of RI economy I would like to add to Margarette Haskell's comments Foreign investment in Indonesia published in The Jakarta Post dated Feb. 28. In my 30 years of doing business in Indonesia, I have heard my share of complaints, criticisms and both horror and success stories from foreigners doing business in Indonesia.

TV today

TV today TVRI 5:30 a.m. Religious Teachings 6:00 News 7:00 Campaign Program 8:00 Children's Songs 8:30 TV Drama 9:00 Music 10:00 Interval 2:00 p.m. News 2:30 Teen Program 3:00 Music 4:00 Regional News 4:30 Children's Program 5:00 Technology Program 5:30 TV Drama 6:00 Sports 6:30 News (in English) 7:00 Evening News 7:35 Campaign Program 9:00 World News 9:30 Talk Show 10:30 Film 11:30 Late News Program 2 4:30 p.m.

Dreams come true for rising magician Deddy

Dreams come true for rising magician Deddy By I. Christianto JAKARTA (JP): He holds a metal spoon tightly and looks deeply at the object. And it bends. Magic? Yes, that's what Deddy Carbuzier demonstrates. But to him, it's not magic, it's mind power. Deddy does not like being called a magician, either. He prefers to dub himself a mentalist, an enchanter who performs mind games with his audience. Before he performs every trick, he informs his audience about what he is going to do.

Survivors fear loss of traditions

Survivors fear loss of traditions The following is the second of three articles about Lampuuk, which was once a popular tourist destination about 20 kilometers west of Banda Aceh, but now has becomes a ghost town following the Dec. 26 quake and tsunami. The Jakarta Post's Nani Afrida has toured the area, interviewed survivors and prepared these articles.

Two neighbors at odds

Two neighbors at odds I read with keen interest Sukawarsini Djelantik's article on the Australian media as well as Dewi Anggraeni's analysis of the lack of mutual understanding between the Australian and Indonesian peoples (The Jakarta Post, Oct. 7). These pieces are exemplary attempts to create a political environment conducive to improving the two countries' relations.

The 'Post' journalist wins award

The 'Post' journalist wins award The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Jakarta Post's reporter I Wayan Juniartha won the International Harm Reduction Association (IHRA) Media Award 2003 for his honest and courageous reporting of issues related to the reduction in the use of illegal drugs.

Proper media organizations needed

Proper media organizations needed JAKARTA (JP): The registration of around 300 new newspapers, weeklies and tabloids at the Ministry of Information has heightened the need for professional associations and unions, journalists and newspaper proprietors said here on Saturday. Speaking at a discussion, Atmakusumah Astraatmadja of Dr.

Sutiyoso's 'becak' blunder

Sutiyoso's 'becak' blunder Perhaps many of our readers have never seen the creature called a becak, the man-powered pedicab about which the Jakarta authorities have made much fuss lately. This long-forgotten (in the capital at least) means of public transportation, which is inhuman in the way it is operated, has become a hot topic since Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso said he would not prevent their return in several Jakarta areas and then a few days later reversed his decision.

Four Percent of Indonesian Women Experience Intimate Health Disorders; Experts Urge Breaking the Taboo on Medical Check-ups

Approximately four percent of Indonesian women experience intimate health disorders requiring medical attention, yet stigma and taboo prevent many from seeking treatment. Leading healthcare experts advocate for a comprehensive, integrated approach to women's health that addresses medical, aesthetic, and psychological aspects across all life stages, whilst encouraging women to overcome cultural barriers to medical consultation.

NU plans to discuss presidential term

NU plans to discuss presidential term JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's largest Moslem organization plans to discuss whether Islamic law and tradition makes any stipulation on the length of the presidential term. Leaders of the East Java branch of the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) will meet in Surabaya next Saturday and Sunday to discuss the question. A spokesman for the branch said yesterday that the issue of the presidential term is among 12 religious questions to be deliberated by the branch.

School debate ends with a bang

School debate ends with a bang Dewi Santoso, Jakarta Common sense and concrete arguments, rather than a mastery of English alone, were the main factors behind the progress of Jakarta 2 and East Kalimantan teams to the final of the second Indonesian Schools Debating Championship (ISDC), said debate judges on Monday. "It's was interesting debate in which the teams presented their arguments strongly and countered their opponents'.

Nuclear dispute just between U.S. and N. Korea: China

Nuclear dispute just between U.S. and N. Korea: China Jae-suk Yoo, Associated Press, Seoul The Chinese ambassador in Seoul said that the nuclear dispute on the Korean Peninsula should be solved primarily by the United States and North Korea, and that Beijing doesn't want to play an active mediating role.

Tutut could become next president: Analyst

Tutut could become next president: Analyst Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former president Soeharto's eldest daughter Siti Hardijanti Rukmana could emerge a serious contender for the presidency, given her family's wealth and solid network, a scholar warns. Maswadi Rauf, a University of Indonesia (UI) professor, said politicians seemed to ignore the maneuvers of Hardijanti, popularly known as Tutut.

Dual function updated

Dual function updated The socio-political function of the Armed Forces (ABRI) has continued to be a relevant topic as time passes. President Soeharto said in his speech at the celebration of ABRI's 49th anniversary yesterday that the military's role is still required in the defense and security and socio-political domains.

Philippine Senate to probe alleged Estrada payoff

Philippine Senate to probe alleged Estrada payoff MANILA (Reuters): The Philippine Senate said on Thursday it would investigate allegations by a provincial governor that he had regularly handed millions of pesos in payoffs from illegal gambling to President Joseph Estrada. Senate President Franklin Drilon said in the legislature the charges, which Estrada dismissed, would be referred to a "blue ribbon committee" which looks into irregularities in government.

Telcos could afford to cut charges, says study

Research by Bandung's Padjadjaran University (Unpad) on the mobile telecommunications industry has found cell phone operators' high earnings mean they could afford to lower their charges. At present, industry players boast an average EBITDA (earning before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) of more than 60 percent, according to Ina Primiana, the head of Unpad's Economic Faculty Management Laboratory (LMFE).

RI`s many old oil wells can still be made productive

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesia`s oil production can be boosted by reactivating the many old but still productive oil wells it has inherited from the Dutch but have been neglected so far, an observer said. "Out of the 13,824 existing old oil wells in Indonesia, only 745 have so far been reopened while the rest remains neglected," Sayogo Heru Prayitno, an oil and gas affairs observer at the Yogyakarta-based National Veterans` Development University (UPN), said here Wednesday.

Business sentiment strengthens but legal uncertainties remain

Business sentiment strengthens but legal uncertainties remain Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The country's Business Sentiment Index (BSI) rose for the second consecutive period, as more business leaders expressed confidence about their current performance and their business outlook for the next six months, a survey said. According to the Danareksa Research Institute survey of top executives at leading companies for the April-May period, the BSI climbed to 111.3 from 110.2.

Boredom and brand names motivate Blok M prostitutes

Boredom and brand names motivate Blok M prostitutes JAKARTA (JP): It seems that discussing sex in public is no longer considered taboo here. The subject is a hot topic not only for some TV talk shows but also in seminars. But not in schools. "Our current education system has yet to accommodate sex in its curriculum...

Police urged to reveal other Ecstasy cases

Police urged to reveal other Ecstasy cases JAKARTA (JP): The House of Representatives wants police to have success in Ecstasy-related cases after bringing suspect Zarina home from her hideout in Houston, U.S. Abu Hasan Sazili, deputy chairman of the Commission I of the House, said Zarina's return from Houston to Jakarta on Sunday relieved everyone. Police should work harder to reveal other Ecstasy-related cases, he said.

Asian recovery, Afghan reconstruction to dominate ADB talks

Asian recovery, Afghan reconstruction to dominate ADB talks Agence France-Presse Manila Sustaining economic recovery with an assault on poverty in Asia and rebuilding war-ravaged Afghanistan are the main issues at an upcoming Asian Development Bank's meeting, the bank's chief said. Some 3,000 delegates will attend the 35th annual meeting of ADB's board of governors in Shanghai from May 10 to 12.

Discourse attempts to address problems of multiculturalism

Discourse attempts to address problems of multiculturalism JAKARTA (JP): Rarely in the world is there a city that has as diverse a cultural history as Jakarta. In this city recently swept by savage acts of ethnic violence, cultural influences from Hindu, Islamic, Sinic and Western civilizations have settled and blended into the local culture.

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003 The Jakarta Post Jakarta The Jakarta Post's reporter I Wayan Juniartha won the International Harm Reduction Association (IHRA) Media Award 2003 for his honest and courageous reporting of issues related to the reduction in the use of illegal drugs.

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003 The Jakarta Post Jakarta The Jakarta Post's reporter I Wayan Juniartha won the International Harm Reduction Association (IHRA) Media Award 2003 for his honest and courageous reporting of issues related to the reduction in the use of illegal drugs.

Prabowo Convenes Nine Ministers Meeting at Hambalang

President Prabowo Subianto held a strategic cabinet meeting with nine ministers at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, on 9 March 2026. The discussion focused on evaluating the government's self-sufficiency programmes for food and energy, as well as preparations for Eid al-Fitr, particularly ensuring food supply and liquefied petroleum gas availability.

Searching for Indonesia on the Web

Searching for Indonesia on the Web By Jules Bell JAKARTA (JP): What is Indonesia's presence on the Internet? Can you shop for batik, stroll through the nation's galleries or search for an Indonesian site in the sea of online data? Of course you can, you just need to know where to look. The two greatest problems with the world wide wonder, the Internet, are that often you end up with a world wide wait, or a world wide wallow.

New marketing plan a must to enlarge market percentage

New marketing plan a must to enlarge market percentage Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesian companies must escalate their marketing strategy from the customer satisfaction level to the sensational level in a bid to snatch the largest market share in coming years. "What they're doing now is only at the level of customer satisfaction.

NAM seeks united stance on NPT

NAM seeks united stance on NPT JAKARTA (JP): As developed and developing countries begin considering the future of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), ministers of the 111-nation Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) will attempt to find a common position on the issue when they meet in Bandung, West Java, next week.

On the Agenda

On the Agenda From May 20 to June 7, Bali will host a number of national, regional and international meetings, including the Preparatory Committee Meeting (Prep-Com) IV for the World Summit on Sustainable Development and the parallel meeting the People's Forum which, which will be held from May 24 to June 6. Prep-Com IV will take place at the Bali International Convention Center in Nusa Dua from May 27 to June 7.

Women in Surakarta loyal to Megawati

Women in Surakarta loyal to Megawati By Haryoso SURAKARTA, Central Java (JP): Some people are loyal forever, especially to a leader under pressure. This is the case for about 50 women in the Central Java town of Surakarta. They have declared their unwavering loyalty to the ousted Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) chief, Megawati Soekarnoputri. They help guard the PDI branch office on Brengosan village day and night as a token of support for Megawati.

President 'must be people's choice'

President 'must be people's choice' JAKARTA (JP): Future Indonesian presidents should be the people's choice, observers said over the weekend. They threw their weight behind a direct presidential electoral system, which has been a topic of public debate in recent days. Ikrar Nusa Bhakti of the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) and Ramlan Surbakti of Airlangga University, Surabaya, support a presidential electoral system that would not involve the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR).

Today, President Prabowo Invites Islamic Organisations and Pondok Pesantren Leaders to Iftar at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto will host an iftar with Islamic organisations (ormas) and pondok pesantren (ponpes) leaders at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on 5 March, confirmed by the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI). The gathering aims to bolster government policy legitimacy through religious leaders and cross-party figures, following earlier invitations to ulama and discussions on Indonesia's Board of Peace and international diplomacy.

BKPM Confirms Sharp Decline in Thuggery Cases Affecting Investors

JAKARTA — Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Deputy Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Todotua Pasaribu has revealed that cases of thuggery (premanisme) disturbing investors have decreased significantly. Although he did not disclose detailed data on the decline, he confirmed the improvement through regular reports submitted by regional police chiefs (Kapolda) across the country.

State treasury to control reforestation funds

State treasury to control reforestation funds JAKARTA (JP): Forestry Minister Djamaludin Suryohadikusumo announced plans to tighten control of the use of reforestation funds yesterday by counting them in the state budget. But he did not rule out allocating a portion of the reforestation funds to pulp and paper companies. He said the House of Representatives was deliberating a bill on nontax revenue, including reforestation funds.

Susilo leads, voters hope for better future

Susilo leads, voters hope for better future Bambang Nurbianto, Jakarta With around 67 percent of the vote already counted on Wednesday, election front-runner Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono topped the provisional tally in the capital with 37.80 percent and is assured of entering the runoff in September. His lead has been a hot topic of discussion among Jakartans in government offices, commercial places, coffee shops, public buses and traditional markets.

Youths prefer worship to parties on New Year

Youths prefer worship to parties on New Year JAKARTA (JP): Youth organizations at several houses of worship here are set to organize religious activities to mark the New Year, which falls on Saturday, amid growing tendencies among city dwellers to exuberantly celebrate the annual event which will also be the changing of the millennium.

U.S. parties see human rights as important issue

U.S. parties see human rights as important issue JAKARTA (JP): Observers of American politics said yesterday that whether a Republican or a Democrat is elected to the White House in November, human rights will continue to feature in relations between Jakarta and Washington. "Whoever is in power, they will still be bearing down on us on human rights issues," said former Indonesia ambassador to Washington Hasnan Habib.

What issues lies ahead in the Internet and e-Business world?

What issues lies ahead in the Internet and e-Business world? By Zatni Arbi SINGAPORE (JP): When someone from the Framingham-based IT research company International Data Corporation (IDC) speaks, heads in the IT industry turn. Therefore, it was no surprise that there were many top executives of Indonesian IT companies at IDC's Asia Pacific IT Forum 2000 in Suntec City, Singapore, early last week.

OPIC Urges US Investors to Turn Their Focus to Regions

The chief of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation has urged US companies to cast their gaze outside of Java Island to tap the growing potential of Indonesia’s outlying regions. “Be patient, be persistent and aim for long-term partnerships,” OPIC president and chief executive Elizabeth Littlefield said at the close of a two-day conference in Jakarta on Thursday.

Governor wants public support for anti-AIDS campaign

Governor wants public support for anti-AIDS campaign JAKARTA (JP): Governor Surjadi Soedirdja wants Jakartans to work hand in hand with city officials in the state-sponsored drive to prevent the spread of the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. "Based on the latest data from the Ministry of Health, 74 of the 214 people suffering from AIDS in the country are Jakartans," Surjadi said. Surjadi was speaking at the opening of a one-day workshop on AIDS prevention at City Hall yesterday.

Sutiyoso prohibits schools to take admission fees

Sutiyoso prohibits schools to take admission fees Damar Harsanto, Jakarta Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso has prohibited state schools from demanding fees for new students during the upcoming admissions period. "During admission, schools must not charge anything, including disguised fees that in the end require students to pay up if they want to be admitted," he said on Thursday.

Legal system not responsive to changing climate

Legal system not responsive to changing climate JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's legal system is not responsive to the rapidly changing societal environment and this partly accounts for the waning reputation of the country's courts, Justice Minister Oetojo Oesman said yesterday.

Motivated students more apt to learn something

Motivated students more apt to learn something By Hendra Gunawan BANDUNG (JP): I could try to teach my dog how to whistle, but I guess -- however hard I tried -- my dog would not learn. I could not then call it teaching, could I? If it was teaching, then it should be categorized as bad teaching. Everybody would agree that the main task of a school teacher is to teach. But what is teaching for? Is it just to fulfill the task?

Taiwan's DPP downplays China's attack against VP-elect Lu

Taiwan's DPP downplays China's attack against VP-elect Lu TAIPEI (AFP): Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) played down on Wednesday China's recent barrage of vitriolic attacks against vice president-elect Annette Lu. Beijing "simply tried to exert its pressure (on Taiwan) using Lu as a topic," DPP chairman Lin Yi-hsiung said when asked to comment on the Chinese moves. "Virtually all the DPP members were treated the same way (by Beijing)," Lin said.

Philippine minister: ASEAN must fight transnational crime

Philippine minister: ASEAN must fight transnational crime BANGKOK (AP): Philippine Foreign Minister Domingo Siazon said on Monday that ASEAN quickly needs a task force to fight transnational crime like trafficking in drugs, arms and human beings. Siazon proposed that the 10-nation group -- which includes the world's chief heroin-producing region in the Golden Triangle where Laos, Thailand and Myanmar meet -- launch its planned Center for Combating Transnational Crime within this year.

Golkar's policy draft to be used as reference

Golkar's policy draft to be used as reference JAKARTA (JP): After a week of debate, minority factions in the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) agreed yesterday to use Golkar's draft as the outline for drawing up the coming state policy guidelines (GBHN). After a week of delays and long debates, representatives of the United Development Party (PPP) and the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) acquiesced with a note of defiance.

West Sumatra councillors to tour region amid protests

West Sumatra councillors to tour region amid protests Kasparman, The Jakarta Post, Padang, West Sumatra Despite strong public criticism, all 55 members of the West Sumatra legislature are to go ahead with their plan to tour three neighboring countries: Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. West Sumatra Councillors Speaker Arwan Kasri told The Jakarta Post earlier this week that the trips were working visits designed to discuss the implementation of regional cooperation accords.

Jakarta's top executives discuss the Internet in detail

Jakarta's top executives discuss the Internet in detail By Dean Carignan JAKARTA (JP): When 90 of Jakarta's top executives gathered last Monday to discuss the future of Information Technology, the result was a shock: no discussion of databases, financial software, or even management information systems. Rather, the entire dialogue focused around a single recurring theme: the Internet.

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush By Febiola Desy Unidjaya WASHINGTON (JP): President Megawati Soekarnoputri pledged here on Wednesday that Indonesia would help the United States in its fight against international terrorism. "Indonesia is always against violence. Terrorism is an act of violence so we will definitely fight terrorism," Megawati told United States President George Bush minutes before they held a talk in the Oval Office at the White House.

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush By Febiola Desy Unidjaya WASHINGTON (JP): President Megawati Soekarnoputri pledged here on Wednesday that Indonesia would help the United States in its fight against international terrorism. "Indonesia is always against violence. Terrorism is an act of violence so we will definitely fight terrorism," Megawati told United States President George Bush minutes before they held a talk in the Oval Office at the White House.

After passing resolution, IPU closes its conference

After passing resolution, IPU closes its conference JAKARTA (JP): The 104th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) closed its week-long conference by calling for a review on the effectiveness of embargoes and economic sanctions to resolve international issues. The conference also called for a reassessment of various international and unilateral sanctions such as those imposed on Burundi, Cuba and the United Nations' sanction on Iraq.

Bush Supports Indonesia Bio-fuel Initiatives

The US is "very supportive" of biofuel initiatives, President George Bush said on Monday (20/11/06) during a visit to Indonesia, which is trying to develop that sector as it copes with growing energy demand. Bush and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said the issue was a major topic in their discussions, and that the US had agreed to help Indonesia with technology in the area. "I am very supportive of bio-fuel initiatives, starting in our own country.

Gambling talks end in tension

Gambling talks end in tension Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A discussion aimed at addressing gambling in the capital on Tuesday ended in tension when a number of participants expressed scorn for the event organizer, who they accused of being manipulative.

Habibie's careless assumption

Habibie's careless assumption This time I would like to share with you my feeling of satisfaction that I made no slip of the pen in a number of letters in which I said it was improper for Akbar Tandjung to be general chairman of Golkar Party and at the same time keep his post as state secretary. This situation could not be allowed in order to prevent abuse of power and funds.

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah ID Nugroho The Jakarta Post/Malang The joining of forces by Indonesia's two largest Muslim organizations to boost the national drive against deep-rooted corruption may only be lip service, according to Muhammadiyah's intellectuals. There was no resistance from within Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, but their joint movement to fight corruption has yet to make any progress, as many of its members stand accused of involvement in corruption.

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah ID Nugroho, The Jakarta Post, Malang The joining of forces by Indonesia's two largest Muslim organizations to boost the national drive against deep-rooted corruption may only be lip service, according to Muhammadiyah's intellectuals. There was no resistance from within Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, but their joint movement to fight corruption has yet to make any progress, as many of its members stand accused of involvement in corruption.

Soeharto and Chirac to hold talks in Bangkok

Soeharto and Chirac to hold talks in Bangkok JAKARTA (JP): French President Jacques Chirac will hold private talks with Indonesia's President Soeharto at next month's Asia-Europe Meeting in Bangkok. Visiting French foreign minister Herve de Charette revealed the news yesterday afternoon. "President Chirac and Soeharto will meet and hold talks at the Bangkok Summit," he said through his interpreter during the media briefing at the conclusion of his visit.

DPR’s Commission X to summon Kemendiktisaintek after student violence case at Undip

The X Commission of the Indonesian House of Representatives plans to summon the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, Science, and Technology to review measures against violence in educational environments after a beating of a student at Diponegoro University (Undip). The meeting, to be held after Eid al-Fitr 2026, will assess existing rules, including Permendikbudristek, and may consider new legislation if current regulations are found inadequate.

ABRI cannot stay neutral, Syarwan says

ABRI cannot stay neutral, Syarwan says JAKARTA (JP): As a social and political force, the Armed Forces (ABRI) cannot be neutral. It has to choose a partner with whom it can reach its ideals, a high ranking military official said yesterday. "We need to have a partner in order to strive to achieve our goals," said Maj. Gen. Syarwan Hamid, the assistant to ABRI chief of social and political affairs.

Agency under fire over proposal to buy 60 guns

Agency under fire over proposal to buy 60 guns JAKARTA (JP): The City Public Order Office's plan to buy 60 more guns is an indication that it has declared "war" against its own residents, especially the disadvantaged, activists said on Saturday.

The number two man

The number two man The five-yearly meeting of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), which will elect the republic's president and vice president, is only four months away. But just the same, most people are still reluctant to speak about the future national leadership. The reasons behind the mass silence are not pointless shyness nor unnecessary politeness, but rather a certainty that their opinions would be useless.

Taxing extra cars

Taxing extra cars Days after it was announced that the Jakarta city administration was planning to introduce a progressive tax system for cars, the news remains a topic of conversation among vehicle owners in this capital city. The reason is of course obvious. For many of Jakarta's families owning more than one car has since long stopped being a luxury. One argument that is often heard is that at present, relatively few families remain in which the husband or father is the sole breadwinner.

220 Young People from 25 Countries Gather to Discuss Global Issues

The 27th Asia Youth International Model United Nations Virtual Conference (AYIMUN VC), organised by International Global Network (IGN), brought together 220 delegates from 25 countries on 14–15 February 2026 to debate pressing global issues including plastic pollution, public health, climate resilience, and Arctic security.

UN envoy Marker meets with Habibie, Alatas on East Timor

UN envoy Marker meets with Habibie, Alatas on East Timor JAKARTA (JP): Visiting UN special envoy Jamsheed Marker said Tuesday he was assured of Indonesia's "firm commitment" to negotiations which have dragged on for years regarding East Timor. He held separate meetings with President B.J. Habibie and Foreign Minister Ali Alatas Tuesday to discuss the government's proposal to give autonomy to East Timor.

East Asia summit urged to tackle global economic sluggishness

East Asia summit urged to tackle global economic sluggishness Deutsche-Presse Agence, Singapore Political and business leaders from 32 countries were urged on Sunday at the World Economic Forum's (WEF) East Asia summit to tackle global economic sluggishness, greying populations and terrorism.

Suprapti: An unemotional expert on emotions

Suprapti: An unemotional expert on emotions JAKARTA (JP): For some academics at the School of Psychology, University of Indonesia, it was only fitting that Dr. Suprapti Sumarmo Markam chose "experience of emotions" as the topic for her doctoral dissertation as well as her scientific oration marking her professorship. Suprapti's study, which helped her obtain her doctoral degree cum laude, was on the wide range of such basic emotions as sadness, happiness, anger and fear.

Official defends bans on series of NGO meetings

Official defends bans on series of NGO meetings JAKARTA (JP): The government denied allegations yesterday that permits for political gatherings and art performances are issued on a discriminatory basis. "The criteria are not so much based on who holds or addresses the meeting but on a consistent enforcement of the law," said Sutoyo N.K., the director general for socio-political affairs of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

'Plans to list Minamas on track'

'Plans to list Minamas on track' Dow Jones, Kuala Lumpur Malaysian plantation group Kumpulan Guthrie Bhd. on Wednesday said plans to list its Indonesian unit are on track given the unit's improved pretax profit and production levels. Kumpulan Guthrie Chief Executive Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said 2002 pretax profit at its Indonesia-based Minamas Plantations, was up 30 percent over 2001, at 57 million ringgit.

Rumors on Puteh's dismissal abound

Rumors on Puteh's dismissal abound The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Rumors have been making the rounds in Aceh that Governor Abdullah Puteh will be dismissed for his failure to control the war-torn province. Antara news agency reported on Saturday that the rumored dismissal had become a hot topic of conversation among locals.

Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz; Indonesia's Fuel Stock Claimed Sufficient for 20 Days

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating conflict with the United States and Israel, triggering a global oil price surge with Brent crude reaching US$78.91 per barrel. Indonesia's Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured the nation's fuel security is stable, stating current crude oil stocks are sufficient for 20 days of consumption, though Indonesia continues to import approximately 1 million barrels daily. The government is preparing contingency measures and coordinating with the National Energy Council to monitor geopolitical developments and assess potential impacts on domestic energy subsidies.

Govt pins more hopes on SOE dividends

Govt pins more hopes on SOE dividends Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Upbeat that this year will be a profitable one for state-owned enterprises (SOEs), State Minister for State Enterprises Sugiharto says the government will maximize their dividend payments, rather than pushing for their privatization, to help finance the budget.

Political leaders meet at Cholil's residence

Political leaders meet at Cholil's residence The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A number of political leaders belonging to a loose grouping of Islamic parties, plus some Golkar Party legislators, met at the residence of deputy speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Cholil Bisri on Jl. Kemanggisan Ilir 2B, Slipi, on Thursday evening, with the host denying that the gathering had any political agenda.

RI human rights concept respected

RI human rights concept respected JAKARTA (JP): A top U.S. diplomat yesterday praised Indonesia's concept of human rights only three days after Washington criticized Jakarta for extending the prison sentence of a local labor union leader convicted of instigating a riot last year.

Photographer vows to always come back

Photographer vows to always come back Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta It may not have occurred to Australian photographer Bill Morrow that his first trip to Yogyakarta, in 1981, would end up with his deep love of the city. So profound that he cannot stay away or stop taking photos for his documentation and collecting various mementos. "This is my 18th visit to Yogyakarta. Still, I'd love to come back here again and again," Morrow told The Jakarta Post earlier this week.

Strange things afoot in KONI election

Strange things afoot in KONI election Musthofid, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The three-day congress of the National Sports Council (KONI) began on Tuesday with the council chairmanship candidacy becoming a hot issue outside the meeting hall. "Do we still need permission from our superiors when we take on dual functions in this era? That should be out of fashion by now," Hari Sabarno, Minister of Home Affairs, said after his presentation before the congress participants.

Seminars, in a way, wasteful

Seminars, in a way, wasteful JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto recently appealed to government officials to hold working conferences and seminars at government premises rather than at hotels or convention centers. It is a timely call and in line with the general imperative for frugal government spending. Frugality, in the use of hackneyed phrases, is another timely homily.

TV reporter Ira Koesno escapes political fire

TV reporter Ira Koesno escapes political fire JAKARTA (JP): Several days before former president Soeharto stepped down, he still tried to hold onto power by announcing he would reshuffle the cabinet -- an effort which proved futile. And just two days before he announced he would reshuffle the cabinet, TV reporter Ira Koesno asked one of this year's most controversial questions live on a local news program watched nationwide.

Activist says Marzuki leaked Bank Bali story

Activist says Marzuki leaked Bank Bali story JAKARTA (JP): With the Attorney General's Office still examining the corruption aspects of the Bank Bali scandal, Jakarta Police have opened an investigation into possible criminal aspects of the US$70 million under-the-table payment. Labor activist Eggy Sudjana met with city police chief Maj. Gen.

Legislators may suffer from political backtrack

Legislators may suffer from political backtrack A'an Suryana and Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Legislators from PDI-Perjuangan may backtrack on the political party's previous stance concerning the establishment of a special committee to probe the Rp 40 billion Bulog scam implicating House Speaker and Golkar Party chairman Akbar Tandjung.

ABRI, Golkar refusal to rights decree questioned

ABRI, Golkar refusal to rights decree questioned SEMARANG (JP): Two leading human rights campaigners joined the chorus for the establishment of an Indonesian human rights charter yesterday. Baharuddin Lopa and Muladi, both members of the National Commission on Human Rights, separately expressed their belief that such a charter would guarantee better protection for people's basic rights.

Jakarta gears up for many VIP guests

Jakarta gears up for many VIP guests Adianto P. Simamora Jakarta Indonesia, the current chair of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will host a series of regional ministerial level meetings in Jakarta in the coming three weeks. The first will be the 37th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM), on June 29 and 30.

Actions speak louder than words

Actions speak louder than words I am pleased that my article RI education system needs a revolution, published in two parts, Sept. 2 and Sept. 3, attracted some comments from readers (Freddy Kirana, Sept. 10, and S. Aungles, Sept. 12). It is a pity that S. Aungles only read one part of my article (Sept. 2) otherwise he would have saved himself the embarrassment of advocating misdirected nationalism or regionalism.

Jakarta gears up for ASEAN guests

Jakarta gears up for ASEAN guests Adianto P. Simamora, Jakarta Indonesia, the current chair of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will host a series of regional ministerial level meetings in Jakarta in the coming three weeks. The first will be the 37th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM), on June 29 and 30.

Capturing home culture on a cell phone

Capturing home culture on a cell phone Rachel Greaves, Contributor, Kerobokan When Bali resident Bob Calabritto saw an advertisement on Discovery Channel for the First-Time Mobile Filmmakers Awards contest, he had one of his usual creative dreams. The interesting combination of filmmaking and technology was a subject that had fascinated the native New Yorker for a long time. Working in Indonesia as a creative consultant and magazine editor, Calabritto had already created a number of short films.

N. Korea to attend ARF meeting: RI

N. Korea to attend ARF meeting: RI Agencies, Seoul North Korea will send its foreign minister to a regional forum in July, where concern over the communist state's nuclear weapons development will be a key topic, Indonesia's foreign minister said on Tuesday. "Following my talks in Pyongyang, I can say with confidence there are reasons to be optimistic Foreign Minister Paek Nam-sun will be attending ...

Muhammadiyah executive to quit over Israel trip

Muhammadiyah executive to quit over Israel trip SOLO, Central Java (JP): Muhammadiyah, the country's largest socio-educational organization, has disciplined the head of its foreign relations department for visiting Israel last year. The meeting of the Muhammadiyah policy-making body (Tanwir), in a manner unfamiliar to other organizations, Saturday night asked Habib Chirzin, "to resign from his post" until its 43rd congress in Banda Aceh in July.

Radio Korea, a listening alternative for Indonesians

Radio Korea, a listening alternative for Indonesians By I. Christianto SEOUL (JP): Through the inventions of those such as Sammuel F.B. Morse and Guglielmo Marconi, people throughout the world are able to enjoy point-to-point communication via radio broadcasting. The Voice of Korea, also known as Radio Korea, is an international radio broadcast transmitted from Yoido-Dong Youngdungpo-Ku, Seoul. Radio Korea, a member of the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) division, was founded on Aug. 15, 1973.

Italian dancer to show 'Topeng Bali'

Italian dancer to show 'Topeng Bali' By Retno Pujiastuti JAKARTA (JP): There is nothing unusual about a performance of Topeng Bali when it is done by Indonesians, but it does make for news when the dancer is an Italian national who has conducted an intensive study of the art form. Carmencita Palermo will take center stage for Topeng di Bali: Ritus-Tari-Topeng (The Mask in Bali: Rite-Dance-Mask) at 10 a.m. on Monday at the Italian Cultural Center Jakarta in Menteng, Central Jakarta.

John Naisbitt to speak on next economic boom

John Naisbitt to speak on next economic boom JAKARTA (JP): John Naisbitt, the author of Megatrends and Global Paradox, will discuss the next boom predicted for 2020 for government decision makers, ambassadors, conglomerate owners and top local executives at Jakarta Convention Center on June 7.

West Java Provincial Secretary Visits Investment Ministry to Discuss Data Integration for Accelerating Investment

KORAN GALA - West Java Provincial Secretary Herman Suryatman visited the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) in Jakarta on Friday (25/7/2025). Herman Suryatman and the West Java provincial government delegation were received by Deputy for Investment Climate Development Riyanto and Deputy for Investment Information Technology Ricky Kusmayadi.

ABRI and civilians

ABRI and civilians When I read in The Jakarta Post of Sept. 9, the statement made by a well respected political scientist, Prof Dr Juwono Sudarsono, vice governor of the National Resilience Institute, I was surprised or, perhaps better, shocked. He said no civilian for the time being is fit to fill the position of president and that this position should still be in the hands of Armed Forces officers, especially those from the Army.

ASEAN, EU say free trade offers benefits to all

ASEAN, EU say free trade offers benefits to all BANGKOK (Reuter): Increased trade between Europe and Southeast Asia offers more jobs and increased prosperity to both sides, senior officials from the regions said yesterday.