S. Sulawesi open to new provinces

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: Governor HZB Palaguna here on Wednesday asserted that he would not oppose parties who wished to propose the establishment of a separate province within South Sulawesi.

"The provincial administration will not oppose those who have such intentions," he told The Jakarta Post after attending the opening of a Rector's Forum meeting here.

Nevertheless, he warned that such aspirations should be truly based on the wishes of the people and not merely exploited as a tool for some individuals and groups to seize greater power in the region.

Various local groups and community leaders have separately suggested the establishment of four new provinces -- West Sulawesi, East Sulawesi, Bosowasi and Luwu Raya -- encompassing a total of 18 regencies or mayoralties currently under the administration of South Sulawesi.

"We won't impede them, but they have to truly prepare themselves both administratively and in terms of manpower," the governor added. (27)