KONI set to aid E. Timor athletes

JAKARTA: The National Sports Council (KONI) said on Tuesday it would provide assistance to East Timor for sports development in the neighboring country.

KONI secretary-general Djohar Arifin said the council would begin its assistance by donating athletic equipment, with more help to follow.

The announcement came as a quick response to the request for aid from East Timor President Xanana Gusmao during a meeting with KONI chairman Agum Gumelar here on Tuesday morning.

However, Djohar said there was a limit to the assistance that could be provided.

"We will assist them as much as we possibly can because we also have problems at home." -- JP