East Java bans logging

MALANG, East Java: All government institutions, including state forestry company Perhutani, should observe a five-to-10- year moratorium on logging, while intensifying their reforestation activities, East Java Governor Imam Utomo said on Thursday.

He said institutions should not pay mere "lip service" to the moratorium and urged the public to monitor the implementation of the reforestation program.

The governor promised a monthly allowance of Rp 150,000 (US$17.8) to all those who planted trees, took care of them for several years and monitored three to four hectares of forest in their region.

Regarding cases of illegal logging in the Cangar forest in Malang, Imam said his administration would seek the approval of the province's legislative council to close the area and increase the number of forest guards.

He expressed concern over the construction of some buildings at the foot of Cangar hill. -- JP