Through this forum, I wish to appeal to all levels of

Through this forum, I wish to appeal to all levels of community leadership and the Indonesian people -- to impose self- restraint upon their respective followers and supporters so as to allow the speedy restoration of a peaceful situation. ...

Investors also need certainty, with regards to rules and regulations. It is against this backdrop that I have directed the economic ministers to implement policies that are coherent and transparent to avoid any confusion among business operators. It is in the same vein that the central government has reminded all regions not to adopt regulations or impose levies, which may hamper trading, investment activities and cause long-term damage to the regions concerned.

With these new investments, we will be able to run our economy effectively again, which is urgently needed to provide jobs for the unemployed ..., the number of which continues to increase on a daily basis.

o Our capability to settle debts has caused concern. A large part of the budget has to be set aside to pay the main debts and their interest. We have to go through all these to honor the commitments made by the government when securing loans. In this regard, we are thankful to donor countries that have been willing to help us settle loans in this difficult period, including their offer to reschedule our debt.

Prioritizing national economic recovery has brought about some implications and consequences ... The first refers to the need to adopt a policy of efficiency. ...

The government leaves no stone unturned in finding other possible solutions acceptable to all for the sake of our national interest.

Inevitably, the government must gradually raise prices of some goods and services, such as fuel and electricity. We also have to consider other stringent policies in the fiscal sector so that we are able to lessen the debt burden. ...

We have also adopted a policy of selling national assets administered by the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency and the privatization of state-owned companies. ... However, these policies have shown little progress in meeting their target.

Experience has demonstrated that addressing the very issue of privatization has often led to other issues that need to be carefully dealt with first ... The privatization policy will, therefore, be conducted cautiously.

o The international community, while facing the threat of economic recession, is now besieged by the fear of terrorism.

International terrorism ... might lead to an adverse impact on economic activities that we count on for human prosperity.

Those found to be involved in terrorism should be held responsible and taken to court. It is the obligation of every party to help find and show to the world any evidence connecting any elements allegedly involved in these irresponsible actions before taking measures to combat terrorism.

By the end of this year, Muslims and Christians will hold religious celebrations. We, therefore, appeal that the military attack aimed at seizing the accused, which has so far claimed the lives of many innocent people, be discontinued before the sacred month of Ramadhan and Christmas.

The long drawn out military attack will not only be counter- productive, it might also weaken the global coalition in combating terrorism ... We appeal for the need to hold a humanitarian pause so as to give more space and opportunity for the handling of humanitarian aid while trying to solve the problem through political and diplomatic channels. ... The government continues its support for the UN to play its role in accordance with its mandate to maintain international peace and security. o To implement the Assembly's mandate to eradicate corruption, collusion and nepotism, we have to carry it out consistently and firmly ... so that the main factors causing many of the nation's woes can come to an end. ...

We also agree to oblige the state apparatus to submit a report on their personal wealth to the Wealth Audit Committee. Allow me also to offer my earnest appreciation to those who have submitted their wealth reports and agree to have their reports published. This measure will contribute to our joint efforts to recuperate the image and to improve the performance of the government.

I will instruct the Attorney General and the Chief of the National Police to submit reports every month on the development and progress in eradicating KKN practices.

The tendency for some regions to seek secession from the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia ... needs more serious care. While some carry out their intentions peacefully, others have conducted their movement forcefully.

In the government's attempt to tackle security disturbances staged by armed separatist movements, the risk that the lives of many are at risk on both sides -- even innocent people residing in the troubled areas -- is inevitable.

Allow me now to elaborate on the basic policies of the government to settle this no less important issue.

The first policy is that, while providing more room for people in the regions to administer themselves under special autonomy, we are resolved to seek a lasting solution to the problems expressed by the public that directly addresses their welfare, justice and dignity.