Elderly get 20% fare discount

JAKARTA (JP): The elderly may now find it easier to travel as they will be given a 20 percent discount in transport fares.

In a letter No.SE.11/KH/306/Phb/97 issued on Oct. 2, the Minister of Transportation specified that those over 65-years of age would be given a 20 percent discount when traveling either by land, sea or air.

Antara reported that it was notified Monday about the reductions.

In the letter, Minister of Transportation Haryanto Dhanutirto said the decision was made in response to President Soeharto's suggestion to help find ways to make the elderly more active and joyous.

The director general of land, sea and air has been ordered to oversee the implementation of the decision.

Copies of the letter have also been sent to state-owned transportation companies such as Garuda Indonesia, shipping lines Pelni and railroad company Perumka, along with other relevant transportation authorities. (mds)