Forestry firms violate permits

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: Some 200 hectares of forest land have been illegally exploited by seven forestry firms in Mamuju regency, regent Almalik Pababari claimed on Friday.

"The firms have violated their permits by extending their operations, which have now exploited a total of 200 hectares," Almalik told The Jakarta Post.

He said the regency would take stern action against the firms for violating their permits. He did not say what kind of action would be taken.

The regent admitted that he had experienced difficulty in contacting the owners of the firms as most of were based in Jakarta.

"Only one firm is owned by a local businessman, the others have their offices in Jakarta," he complained. (30/jun)