Roche clarifies

I am writing in response to an article published on June 22, 2000 in The Jakarta Post entitled Roche rules out withdrawal from RI despite legal fiasco.

The article stated that Roche would not pull out of Indonesia even if it loses the appeal over a controversial Rp 281 billion fine imposed by the South Jakarta Court.

I wish to state categorically that Roche Indonesia will not be paying Rp 281 billion under any circumstances, and we believe that we will be successful with our appeal. If the appeal is not successful, although I have recommended to top management that Roche stay in Indonesia, higher Roche management levels will make any further decisions.

In closing, may I state that both Roche and Roche Indonesia's lawyers remain absolutely of the opinion that we have both legally and ethically abided by the distribution contract that was signed by the two companies only four years ago.

DIETER GARBADE

President Director

PT Roche Indonesia

Jakarta