Megawati criticizes demonstrators

JAKARTA: President Megawati Soekarnoputri expressed her disappointment on Thursday with the way students and youths demonstrated.

"Compared to the current rallies, those in the past were well managed," Megawati said while opening the Association of Bandung Institute of Technology Alumni congress at the State Palace.

The President has repeatedly chided student protesters for going beyond ethical norms in voicing their aspirations. Megawati once suggested her young critics should leave the country.

Three students are standing trial on charges of insulting the President during an anti-government rally in June, when they were found stepping on the picture of Megawati on purpose.

Megawati told the institute alunmi to help the government boost industry as a backbone of the country's economy. She also hoped the congress to offer solutions to unemployment. -- JP