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