Building tenants told to stay alert on Monday

JAKARTA (JP): In an anticipation for worst situation during the House of Representatives (DPR) plenary session on Monday, and the gathering of thousands of President Abdurrahman Wahid's supporters, the management of high-rise buildings in Jakarta have informed their tenants to remain alert.

The management of Menara Kadin building on Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said in Kuningan, South Jakarta, for example, urged its occupants to take self-precaution security measures to protect themselves during the anticipated tense day.

The management, in an internal circular distributed to tenants and a copy of which was obtained by The Jakarta Post, said they would double the number of security team for morning and afternoon shifts, apart from two officers from the Brigade Mobile (Brimob).

The tenants, if they decide to open their office on Monday, are appealed to tell their employees to arrive in the office earlier than usual and to leave the office in a group of at least three people with more than two men in each group

Tenants and their employees are also urged to use public transportations and at least not to use luxury vehicles.

"Do not drive luxurious cars and do not stop to watch any passing protesters," it warned.

For female employees, the building management suggested not to wear fancy accessories like jewelry. For those who are wearing skirt to the office, it was also advised to bring extra trousers to prevent possible harassment.

Informing cellular telephone numbers to fellow colleagues in the office was also suggested and if possible any meeting outside the building to be canceled or held inside the compound.

The management also suggested the employees to provide extra snacks for themselves and to have lunch at the restaurants or cafeteria inside the building.

All food counters would be asked to keep open after hours to serve the employees, the statement said. (23/emf)