'TVRI' under investigation

SAMARINDA, East Kalimantan: Prosecutors are investigating the alleged embezzlement of Rp 1.7 billion (US$188,888) of East Kalimantan's TVRI television station's 2003-2004 operational funds.

The investigation is based on a report from TVRI employees dated April 7, citing the misappropriation of financial assistance from provincial and regental/municipal administrations.

"The prosecutors have already called in the related officials for questioning," said East Kalimantan Prosecutor's Office public relations manager Sjachronie.

Head of East Kalimantan TVRI Asmuny S. Noor confirmed the questioning but said it was simply to confirm the report. However, he regretted the matter had been handed over to the prosecutor's office rather than being solved internally.

"But it's the right of unsatisfied workers (to report) their superiors," he said. "Actually, there's no problem because the expenditure of the financial assistance was managed internally and reported to the administrations. But since the case is already at the prosecutor's office, we're ready to be questioned," he said. -- JP