RI use of the decimal sign

RI use of the decimal sign

From Kompas

Globalization and the development of sophisticated electronic media necessitate the use of universal symbols of communication. Unfortunately, in Indonesia, the use of decimal signs is contrary to international practice. This is confusing, especially when one uses a calculator. Whereas a comma (,) is used to indicate a decimal figure in Indonesia, a period (.) is used for this purpose internationally.

Take, for example, the figure "1,500". In Indonesia, this is understood to mean one-and-a-half, while on a calculator, this means one thousand five hundred. This difference in the usage of the decimal sign often causes trouble when using data processing programs on a computer.

Who is responsible for regulating the use of the decimal sign in Indonesia? In the present era of globalization, the decimal sign must be used uniformly, and it is high time that Indonesia adopted international practice in this matter.

AGNES SAWIR

Jakarta