NGOs reject journalist games

NGOs reject journalist games

PEKANBARU, Riau: A group of four non-governmental organizations
(NGOs) have rejected the Riau provincial administration's plan to
host a sporting event for journalists between Feb. 8 to Feb. 14,
saying it would burden the Riau people.

The group of NGOs were particularly opposed to the Riau
government's funding of the games, which would cost it Rp 6
billion (US$666,666).

The funds would be better allocated for poverty eradication
and the improvement of people's education in the province, said
Zulfahmi, the coordinator of the group of NGOs.

Only members of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI)
are eligible to participate in the national games. -- JP