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