'Celebrations should be modest'

Jakarta is celebrating its 478th anniversary, which fell on June 22, with a series of events until next month. Many people say the administration should put its money into improving public services, rather than buying fireworks. The Jakarta Post asked residents for suggestions on how Jakarta could become a more livable city.

Komet, 29, is an employee of a private company in Kebayoran Lama district, South Jakarta. He lives in a boarding house in Setiabudi subdistrict, also in South Jakarta:

Well, to make things better for both residents and visitors I can think of many things that should be done. Considering this, the city's anniversary should be celebrated modestly.

Traffic jams remain a major problem that costs Jakartans time and money. Meanwhile, the city administration has been unable to formulate policies that really address what is going on.

Another problem is air pollution.

Jakarta continues to be one of the world's most heavily polluted cities. Next year, all public transportation in the city will use more environmentally friendly fuel. At least, that's what they say, I have not seen any preparatory steps being made.

The most shameful of Jakarta's realities is the malnutrition cases here. With a city budget of over Rp 14 trillion (US$1.47 billion), the administration could surely to better. It needs to revise its health care programs, so that all children have nutritious diets.

Haryono, 32, is a public transportation driver. He lives with his wife and three children in Kebon Jeruk subdistrict, West Jakarta:

To be honest, I didn't know Jakarta was celebrating its 478th anniversary until I heard it from you. Nevertheless, I have my own ideas for improving things -- better wages, no fee increases and steady staple-food prices.

A driver like me is always in a weak position.

The number of vehicles on my route is steadily increasing. This condition has caused my income to drop as competition among us (drivers) becomes tougher and tougher. I hope the City Transportation Agency does not issue more vehicle permits for this route.

-- The Jakarta Post