'Paramilitaries must get out of the capital'

Jakarta celebrates its 478th anniversary on June 22. While this is normally a festive occasion, residents spoken to by The Jakarta Post said the commemoration was also a good time for the administration to address a multitude of problems confronting the city.

Dian, 26, is a marketing employee at a private radio station. She lives in Pondok Gede, East Jakarta:

One of my biggest wishes is that Jakarta will emerge as the safest city in the country. Free of bomb threats, thieves, pickpockets or any other kind of criminals.

That way I would feel safe if I travel on public transportation or walk late at night.

As a person who works irregular hours, I need to feel safe traveling at any time, anywhere.

If the city becomes safe, it will also make my job easier because many companies will have no hesitation about spending their money on events or to advertise themselves.

To make my dream come true, the Jakarta Police should be deployed in every corner in the city, especially at dangerous places, such as bus stations. Most of them should act like common civilians and hide their scary faces. Be gentle, and smile a lot so that people feel comfortable.

Ogie, 25, is a waiter at an Italian restaurant in South Jakarta. He lives in Cijantung, East Jakarta:

I hope the Governor, the Jakarta Police chief and the Jakarta military commander listen to this idea: I want the paramilitaries out of the city. Gone, disappeared -- vanished from the streets.

I am sick of being afraid that they will attack or destroy places of entertainment. These are places where I earn my living.

This city is dangerous enough without their presence, why should they add to Jakartans' wariness?

Please Mr. Governor and other Jakarta government elites, make us, your citizens, feel comfortable and safe living in this city.

-- The Jakarta Post