'E. Timor should be self-sufficient'

DILI, East Timor: Governor Abilio Jose Osorio Soares says it is high time Indonesia's youngest province becomes self- sufficient and ceases to rely on privileges granted by the central government.

"We must not be dependent on privileges anymore, because this stance only cultivates dependency, poor work ethics and indiscipline," Abilio was quoted by Antara as saying yesterday.

He did not specify the privileges. However, ever since it was integrated into Indonesia in 1976, the former Portuguese colony has been the recipient of enormous development project grants compared to other eastern Indonesian regions.

Addressing a ceremony at which a number of government officials were sworn in, Abilio said the East Timorese should strive to work harder and be well disciplined, in a manner worthy of the province's 20 years of integration into Indoneisa.

"Good work ethics and professionalism would help the province keep up with other provinces's achievements," he said. (imn)