Govt to keep airports, seaports

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: Minister of Regional Autonomy Ryaas Rasyid insisted here that the implementation of the Regional Autonomy Law No. 22/1999 would not mean the transfer of the management of airports and seaports to local governments.

Speaking in a visit to his home province to promote the law on Monday, Ryaas said such properties have to be managed to a national and international standard.

"The state has the authority to manage its properties that are bound by certain regulations and universal standards. The state also has the right to collect national revenues from the ports.

According to the minister, only certain areas of state- property management can be shifted to local administrations, such as parking areas. (27/edt)