China gives police 1,000 motorbikes

JAKARTA: China pledged on Friday to donate 1,000 motorcycles worth US$1 million to help the cash-strapped National Police carry out its duties.

Witnessed by National Police chief Gen. Da'i Bachtiar, Minister of National Development Kwik Kian Gie and Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia Lu Shumin signed a letter on the deal at the minister's office here.

"These motorcycles will help our police conduct their daily duties and protect the public," Kwik said.

Ambassador Lu said that both sides "should work together and move in the same direction to help each other".

The cash-strapped police often receive donations, including from President Megawati Soekarnoputri's husband Taufik Kiemas and businessman Tomy Winata, who both donated several patrol cars recently. -- JP