Old researchers never retire, they just fade away

JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) has proposed an extension of the retirement age of its top research staff from 65 to 70.

LIPI chairman Samaun Samadikun, who is 63 years old, said a good researcher reaches the prime of his career between 60 and 65 years of age and that extending the retirement age to 70 was a reasonable proposal.

"Within these age parameters, most researchers are still productive and are at the height of their expertise," Samaun told a hearing with Commission X of the House of Representatives yesterday.

The proposal has already been sent to the State Minister of Research and Technology, State Minister of Administrative Reforms and Minister/State Secretary, he said.

The extension will be given to primary researchers, those who have collected enough credit points that they can work independently.

LIPI currently has 872 researchers, 52 of whom are categorized as primary researchers.

Samaun said during the hearing that LIPI is also improving its remuneration system for its research staff.

He said he is considering greater occupational allowances and the provision of a medical clinic.

LIPI is also improving its career development program to benefit of the younger research staff, he added. (par)