Corruption-free driver's licenses?

Over recent years I, like other expatriates and Indonesian citizens, have renewed my driver's license at the Traffic Police Driver's License Center in Kalideres. Each year the process involved payment of "extra fees" at some point. Middlemen were often present to "assist" in the process. This year my experience was very different.

Arriving at the center, I read a sign that prohibited middlemen. This was enforced by having my documents checked and my hand stamped at the entrance.

However, the sign, which was most satisfying to read, was the one I read on every counter window. It said Tidak dipungut biaya (No fee to be paid). At every stage of the process courteous and helpful staff did their job and no "extra monies" or "administration fees" were asked for. This was a refreshing change for both myself and, I am sure, everyone else applying for licenses.

Therefore I would like to thank and commend the head of the Driver's License center for his effort and practical attempt to stamp out corruption. In this way honesty and efficiency may gradually replace the dishonesty and corruption of the past.

HUGH COLLETT

Jakarta