This is business

This is business

Many local and foreign investors have begun to recalculate economic aspects of their businesses in Indonesia. This phenomenon shows that something is happening to the business climate here.

In fact, some domestic and foreign companies will follow Sony Corporation's plan to withdraw its investment from the country. The investors will have to study the matter thoroughly before making the decision, which is all about profit. This is a classic calculation.

Therefore, it is ridiculous to hear cynical comments from our officials, who sneer at the investors' profit orientation.

The bureaucrats and decision-makers have clearly been inconsistent in upholding their slogan: "The government will continue to create a conducive and healthy investment climate."

Many businesspeople feel threatened by taxation rulings, labor issues and uncertain security. The high-cost economy is another matter of concern for investors.

We are familiar with the government's efforts to set up task forces to encourage businesspeople to invest in the country. However, these efforts have apparently failed.

The administration of President Megawati Soekarnoputri appears half-hearted in implementing investment policies.

Bureaucrats fail to serve the public, including investors, instead demanding service from the public and becoming corrupt. The result is, among other things, smuggled goods have flooded the country. This has contributed to the reluctance investors have for continuing to do business in the country.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, -- Jakarta