'PLN should treat consumers better'

State power company PT PLN is asking residents of Java and Bali to conserve energy from May 23 to June 6 as it struggles to complete construction work at the Muara Karang and Tanjung Priok power plants. The Jakarta administration is only switching on street lamps and lamps used for outdoor billboard advertisements after 8 p.m., and has reduced the use of air-conditioners to comply with the save energy campaign. The Jakarta Post asked residents for their thoughts on the issue.

Putri, 23, is a receptionist at the J.W. Marriot Hotel. She lives in Kebon Kacang, Central Jakarta:

I definitely agree with the idea of saving energy. Obviously it helps reduce one's expenses.

But if you think about it, who in this day and age can do anything without electricity? I certainly can't.

And there's always the possibility that future generations might not be able to enjoy the luxury of electricity as we do.

We really don't have to do a lot. Just start with the often neglected stuff like turning off the light in the toilet or simply turning off the TV and radio if we are going to sleep.

Martha, 23, is a student in the School of Communications at the Dr. Moestopo University. He also sings in a club. He lives in Pondok Aren, South Jakarta:

Electricity is a gift from God. Besides enjoying it, we should always remember that it is our duty to ensure that our children and grandchildren can also enjoy it.

I'm not trying to be sanctimonious here. I'm just saying that with the recent issue of blackouts, the thought had crossed my mind.

There could come a day when PLN will not be able to provide as much energy as is needed. What will happen then?

So, I say that switching off some lights won't hurt anyone. But I'm a bit disappointed about the process though. I'm used to having to pay a fine whenever I pay my monthly bill late.

But now suddenly they announce that there could be a blackout. And even though it hasn't happened yet, what if it does? What if it happens while I'm in the middle of doing something important?

They should really treat their customers better.

--The Jakarta Post