Aceh concerned as settlers leave

BANDA ACEH, Aceh: Aceh Governor Syamsuddin Mahmud has expressed concern over the reported exodus of thousands of transmigrants from the riot-torn province, Antara reported on Saturday.

"I truly regret the attitude and acts of certain parties who are intimidating the transmigrants so they leave," Syamsuddin was quoted by the news agency as saying.

"The transmigrants have contributed to the physical and nonphysical development of the province," he said.

Settlers have contributed to the creation of new economic growth centers in Aceh, linking remote villages that had once been isolated and improving the people's welfare.

A total of 155,987 newcomers have settled in 12 transmigration sites in Aceh since 1975. (05)