Susilo cancels visit over protest rumor

MALANG, East Java: Presidential candidate Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) canceled a visit here on Monday to sugarcane factory PT Molindo Raya in response to rumors of a worker protest at the factory.

The cancellation came as a disappointment to the management of the factory, which had arranged a welcoming ceremony, security and food for the candidate and his team.

"But we understand the decision to cancel the visit and it will not affect our relationship with SBY," said Hari Purnomo, a director of the company.

He said the company had had warm relations with Susilo since two years ago, when he visited the factory to present the management an award for its zero-accident record. -- Antara