Few takers for new commission

JAKARTA: Despite frequent advertisements in newspapers and on radio and television, people have shown little interest in sitting on the Constitutional Commission.

This has prompted the People's Consultative Assembly to extend the deadline for registration to Sept. 20 from Sept. 15.

Since registration opened on Sept. 1, only 13 people have applied for a place on the commission.

The Assembly has set an Oct. 7 date for the inauguration of the 31-strong commission, the main job of which will be to make compatible constitutional amendments made by the Assembly over the past four years during its seven-month term.

Jacob Tobing, chairman of the Assembly's ad hoc committee dealing with the selection of commission members, said on Monday that the relatively low salary offered may be the reason for the lack of public interest.

The Assembly is offering Rp 8 million (US$900) per month for commission members living outside Jakarta and Rp 6 million for those living in the capital. A lawmaker earns Rp 12.5 million.

"The amount includes accommodation and transportation allowances for those living outside Jakarta," Jacob said. -- JP