BPS data on Internet

BPS data on Internet

JAKARTA (JP): The Central Bureau of Statistic (BPS) has entered the global computer network, the Internet, allowing foreigners to access data on Indonesia's macro and micro economy culled from the government agency's records.

"After a year of preparations, we went on the Internet last October," BPS's chief, Soegito, said at a meeting with Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono here yesterday.

He pointed out that the information made available on the Internet includes data on the country's international trade, agriculture, mines, energy and the volume of its consumption.

It also provides data on the country's exports, covering such commodities as plywood, shrimp and coffee as well as imports from major trading partners.

He said that businessmen abroad can now get facts and figures discussed during cabinet meetings.

The head of the BPS's Data Base Section, Agus Suherman, told Minister Moerdiono that the information service has been warmly welcomed by foreigners.

But he said foreigners have expressed hopes that BPS will provide more detailed information on Indonesia's economy, such as information on minor tourism sites outside of Bali, flight schedules and ticket prices. (13)