Aceh concerned as settlers leave

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)