Becak driver named Gus Dur's guest

PADANG, West Sumatra. An unlikely pair, Adriyasman, a becak (three-wheel pedicab) driver, and Indriani, a cowherd, may be part of the story of poverty in the countryside, but their success in family planning program will take them to a state honor.

The pair will represent West Sumatra in a function at the State Palace to be hosted by President Abdurrahman Wahid on June 29 in commemoration of National Family Day.

Gus Dur, as the President is popularly known, will receive representatives of the country's 27 provinces during the celebration.

"The pair have been chosen because of their success in the family planning program. They have used implant contraception devices for four years," West Sumatra National Family Planning Board (BKKBN) office, H.A. Lufti Sabrie told Antara on Monday.

Lufti said his office will involve the Minangkabau local customs board and Bundo Kanduang women's council to empower the family planning program.

He said the celebration will be held in cooperation with several non-governmental organizations, such as the Indonesian Home Economic Association (IHEA) and the Community Nutrition and Family Resources (GMSK). (09)