Catherine Surya receives West Java's biggest bonus

JAKARTA (JP): Swimmer Catherine Surya received West Java's biggest bonus on Saturday, when she took home Rp 90.8 million (US$38,638) for winning the province five gold medals and for breaking two national records at the just concluded 14th National Games.

Suara Pembaruan reported yesterday, however, that other gold medal athletes from West Java were less than satisfied with their bonus money.

West Java governor Nuriana handed the bonuses to the athletes in a ceremony at his residence in Gedung Pakuan in Bandung, the capital of the province.

Runner-up West Java, which won 71 gold medals behind overall champion Jakarta, awarded Rp 12.5 million for each gold medal earned, Rp 6.25 million for each silver and Rp 3.125 million for each bronze medal. Those who won no medals were given Rp 650,000.

Catherine's five gold medals earned her Rp 62.5 million. Because she broke two national records, she was given additional bonuses, which brought her total to Rp 90.8 million.

Those from team competitions were the most disgruntled over having to share the lump-sum gold medal bonus with their teammates.

"Let us give back the money," a disgruntled basketball player, who refused to be identified, was quoted by Pembaruan as saying. Insult was added to injury when they heard that East Java gave nearly Rp 15 million to each of its gold medalists. Some unhappy athletes just walked away after receiving their share of the award money.

Governor Nuriana said after delivering the bonuses that the recipients should not dwell on the amount of money, which he called "an endearment."

"This is an expression of love from a father (referring to himself) to his children. This money is just pocket money, some of which may be put into your savings accounts," he said.

The bonuses given in other provinces varied. Southeast Sulawesi promised Rp 5 million to each gold medalist. South Kalimantan and West Nusa Tenggara allocated Rp 10 million for each gold medal earned. (arf)