Chinese team of doctors due here to conduct medical check on Gus Dur

JAKARTA (JP): A team of three Chinese physicians is scheduled to arrive here on Monday to conduct a checkup on President Abdurrahman Wahid and First Lady Sinta Nuriyah.

A statement from the press and media bureau at the State Palace announced that the team, led by Tang You Zhi, would examine Abdurrahman and the First Lady as well as prescribing further medication as part of a continuation of a similar examination in December last year.

"The diagnoses will be conducted using modern methods just like in Indonesia and other countries, while the treatment will comprise traditional Chinese methods such as acupuncture and herbal treatment," the statement announced.

Abdurrahman has been receiving medical treatment for his eyesight problem, while his wife has been using Chinese medicine to treat her disability after a traffic accident in 1993 made it difficult for her to walk.

It is was not stated when the team would start their work. But the State Palace announcement made it clear the Chinese doctors would be accompanied by and would consult with the presidential team of doctors led by Abdurrahman's younger brother Umar Wahid.

"The combination of modern and traditional medication has led to progress in the health of the President and the First Lady," Umar said.

News of the arrival of the Chinese doctors comes less than two weeks after Abdurrahman underwent a checkup at Harapan Kita Cardiac Hospital. At the time doctors announced that the President was in good condition for a man who had suffered two strokes and was partially blind.

Abdurrahman was also forced to undergo a checkup and rest for a few days on Feb. 25 when he was diagnosed with influenza.

Concerns about Abdurrahman's health linger due to the fact that the 59-year-old leader was hospitalized for two months following a stroke in January 1998.

He then underwent brain surgery at state Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital. He was treated for hypertension in July 1997.(emf)