City delays mall construction

JAKARTA: The city administration delayed the renovation of Block A building in Tanah Abang textile market, Central Jakarta, because Governor Sutiyoso could not officiate the start of construction for the Rp 700 billion (US$82 million) worth project, which was scheduled for Monday evening.

City spokesman Muhayat said the Governor, along with other city officials, was attending a meeting with leaders of new political parties at Hotel Indonesia at the same time.

Tanah Abang traders had protested the plan to relocate them to a less strategic place in the newly renovated building. They had threatened to obstruct the workmen should city-owned market operator PD Pasar Jaya continues with the renovations.

PD Pasar Jaya president director Prabowo Soenirman said the project would be delayed until next week, next month, or maybe for two years", adding that the delay was not due to the protest. -- JP