Makassar's signboards

Makassar's signboards

I refer to the letter from Mr. Robert J. Cochrane (The Jakarta
Post, June 13, 2001, Environmental desecration) concerning PT
Telkom's signboard which has marred the beauty of South Sulawesi.
I completely agree with him.

Although I lived in Makassar for only one year in 1997, I
realize that Makassar is the eastern gateway of Indonesia as far
as tourists are concerned. Thus, its important that its
cleanliness, freshness and friendliness be maintained.
Unfortunately, it is a common sight here to find giant billboards
and signboards which diminishes the natural beauty of the land.
We realize that companies need to promote their services or
products through advertisements, however, they should consider
its impact on the surroundings.

Therefore, I would like to call on the city council of every
province to keep in mind Makassar's image, and control the
permits issued for the erection of signboards and billboards.
Also illegal billboards with pornographic pictures could cause
traffic accidents.

SYLVIE GILL

Jimbaran, Bali