Sophisticated technology

BANJARMASIN, South Kalimantan: Minister of Research and Technology B.J. Habibie says Indonesia is among only eight countries in the world currently developing sophisticated aviation technology.

"Only eight of 200 countries are capable of developing aircraft technology such as the 'Gatot Kaca,'" Habibie was quoted by Antara as saying here Saturday. "Indonesia is the only Asian country with this technological ability, while the other countries are in Europe and the United States."

He pointed out that even until the year 3000 the technology needed to build an aircraft would still be classified as "sophisticated."

Also considered sophisticated, he said, was satellite technology, and both these technologies must therefore be mastered.

"Several years ago, the technology applied in the building of cars and computers was considered sophisticated. But as many countries now have the skills to build them, such technology has become commonplace," he said. (swe)