Border island to get airstrip

KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono approved on Tuesday the construction of an airstrip on Miangas Island, which is part of North Sulawesi province, and borders the Philippines.

Susilo said the central government would provide funds for the project, which was proposed by the Wirabuana Military Command overseeing Sulawesi and the North Sulawesi administration.

The President said the airstrip was needed to help prevent people on the remote island from being isolated.

"According to the Wirabuana Military commander, it's difficult to access the island due to transportation problems. In certain months, transportation is absent. What if an outbreak of disease or a food shortage hit the island?" Susilo explained to local officials and figures during a dialog at the Southeast Sulawesi government office.

The President emphasized that border islands needed adequate attention, otherwise the country would lose them. Indonesia lost Sipadan and Ligitan islands in 2002 to Malaysia. -- Antara