Best taxi, bus drivers to get gifts

JAKARTA (JP): The state-owned radio station will give Rp 50,000 (US$22.1) in cash to each taxi and bus driver in Jakarta considered to have truly adhered to traffic rules during the months of August and September.

Syamsul Muin Harahap, the head of Radio Republik Indonesia, RRI, said the move is primarily aimed at instilling a great sense of traffic discipline among drivers of public transportation vehicles.

"This activity is expected to bring about the culture of traffic discipline among road users, in particular taxi and bus drivers," he said.

Taxi and bus drivers will be provided with red and white flags as well as special stickers to be attached on the rear of their vehicles, he said. "They are expected to tune into PRO 2 FM of the state-owned radio, and listen to learn if they have won the prizes," he said.

Riri Pakpahan, the chairperson of the organizing committee, told reporters that around 1,200 taxi and bus companies have been listed as entrants in the "contest."

The contest, being held in conjunction with the golden anniversary of Indonesia's Independence Day on Aug. 17, is called "red and white taxi/bus" contest. It was officially opened yesterday by city secretary Harun Al Rasyid.

Harun called on all taxi and bus drivers to improve their services to passengers.

He raised a novel proposal that, if possible, owners of taxis and buses in the city offer free services to passengers on Aug. 17.

"This is not an obligation, but just a suggestion. It could be a rare patriotic expression of joy and happiness on the part of the owners of taxi and bus companies in celebrating the 50th anniversary of our beloved republic," he said.

Harun expressed disappointment at the attitude of many people living in exclusive residential areas who appeared reluctant to respond to the city administration's call on all city residents to install decorative lamps in front of their houses in the run- up to Independence Day.

"It is not an obligation. But what's wrong with responding positively to the call? After all it is only once in 50 years," he pointed out. (32)