The wisdom of moustaches

JAKARTA (JP): Men traditionally grow moustaches to make them appear masculine. Except for People's Consultative Assembly legislator Poedjono Pranjoto.

The chairman of the Assembly Working Committee revealed on Thursday that it was "wisdom" that inspired him to adorn his rectangular face with a moustache. He did not sport a moustache in the past and began to cultivate it only after he took up his post in the Assembly last year.

"A moustache reflects wisdom, or at least it gives one the appearance of being wise, doesn't it?" the former governor of Lampung laughed, jokingly punching a journalist on the shoulder.

The journalist, who also had a moustache, retorted: "Sir, how about Mr Harmoko?", referring to the clean-cut, clean-shaven Speaker of the Assembly and the House of Representatives.

Poedjono gave no answer, but said: "I will let him know about your question." (amd)