Travelling to five countries in one month (Part 5)

Some pics of my recent trips in Davao-Manila-Kota Kinabalu-Yangon-Bangkok-Ayutthaya-Chiang Mai-Kuala Lumpur (15 August 2012 - 20 September 2012). I think I have spent so much money for the trip but it is ok...We can't buy happiness, can we?

See the full gallery on Posterous

Pulau Mursala dan King Kong 1933

It is said that this island is a place where King Kong movie was made in 1933. I am not sure this is true fact or just hoax. I have googled it but I can't find some credible sources mentioning that the movie indeed was made there. However I found an interesting link below mentioning about the Mursala island connection with King Kong movie. 

Btw : It was Titi Sjuman who told that Mursala Island was a shooting place for the making of famous movie "King Kong"

 Mursala Island Waterfall, Sibolga, North Sumatra, Indonesia

Mursala Island

Picture Source : Suhendri Ali 

source : http://www.insidesumatera.com/en/?open=view&newsid=1075
Floating Heaven in Sibolga Bay
by. Ekky Siwabessy

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Our speedboat with 170 HP splits the waves of Sibolga Bay at high speed. The green sea fades to blue as we leave the Hotel Wisata Indah’s harbor letting us know that we are now in deep waters. Drops of sea spray from the bottom of the boat wet my face. I check my camera equipment to check it is safe. We pass Poncan Gadang Island and Poncan Ketek Island on either side of the boat. Ahead, Mursala Island begins to take shape.
It was Mr. Maryadi, the General Manager of Wisata Indah Hotel in Sibolga, who enabled us to make this journey across Sibolga Bay to visit some of the islands in these western waters. Even though we are still aching and tired from our overnight journey from Medan, it is hard to refuse his offer to make this journey along the shores of the Indian Ocean. “Your tiredness will disappear for sure,” promises Mr. Maryadi. The result is that at about 13.45, our speedboat prepares to leave the Hotel Wisata Indah harbor. Indeed, the sea air and the fantastic views surrounding us wake us up.
The stony outcrops and large waves are proof of the local fisherman’s bravery. As far as the eye can see, islands are sprinkled throughout the bay, contrasting with the blue sea. Coconut trees grow on the larger islands, we are surrounded by a ring of islands.
Today we are accompanied by Mr. Luhut Butarbutar, the captain of the ship, and his three assistants; Boy Sinaga, Bilmon Pakpahan and Mikael Sinaga. According to plan, we cross to Mursala Island, which is one of the biggest islands in the outer reaches of Sibolga Bay. It was this island that is believed to have saved Sibolga City from the 2004 Tsunami. It functioned as a cushion that lessened the impact of the tidal wave before it could reach the city.
Mursala Island is located 01.38’6,09”  North and 98.35’7,22” East. This island starred in the Hollywood production of “King Kong”. It was pictured as an island full of Stone Age people, frightening animals and a number of other distortions. They named Mursala Island in Sumatera as the setting of the movie story, giving the world a false image of the island. Now, we want to set the facts straight.
Mursala Island is indeed covered in virgin rainforest, but isn’t surrounded by mysterious fog and sharp stony outcrops that sink approaching ships as in the film. The sandy beaches and marine ecosystem is still intact, making it a popular amongst Sibolgans. One can snorkel underneath the warm sun and observe the coral for hours without feeling cold. There are 700 different kinds of fish to entertain you while snorkeling and diving.
Another unique tourist attraction on Mursala is a 35 metre high waterfall which falls from the cliffs straight into the sea. About 100 metres from the shore, we can see coral and multi-coloured fish through the crystal clear waters, allowing us to observe the marine life despite being at a depth of 4 or 5 metres. Mr. Luhut stops the speed boat. He puts on diving clothes, snorkel and grabs an underwater harpoon.
“Someone has ordered fish, I’ve got to go and shoot it. You wait here, ok? Pick me up in an hour,” he says to his assistant. Then he looks at us and says: “Have fun, won’t you?”
Splash! He disappears into the arms of the ocean to make his transactions with the sea.
Mr. Luhut Butatbutar is a boat operator as well as a diving and snorkeling guide at Wisata Indah Hotel. His extensive experience as a marine guide leaves no room for doubt. In a moment, he has forgotten about us while looking for fish in the coral roof on the bottom of the sea below us. Our boat leaves Mr. Luhut behind to enjoy his own activities.
First of all, we are brought to the waterfall which faces the Indian Ocean. At 14.50, the waterfall is in sight. The falling water causes bubbles which mix with the waves. The water pours down the red granite cliffs of the island, then falls to the surface of the ocean with a booming sound. The volume of water will be larger during the rainy season.
I observe the blue-black ocean bed below us. This part is quite deep. We don’t waste the opportunity to take photos of this natural phenomenon. It is quite rare to find a waterfall that falls directly into the sea in this part of the world.
 “This is the favourite diving spot for foreign divers. However, one must be careful because sharks are sometimes found here,” commented Bilmon. After taking photos for a while, we decide to land on the island in order to socialize with the Mursala inhabitants.
In contrast to Poncan and Putih Island, Mursala doesn’t have a resort yet. There isn’t even a pier. So if one wishes to meet the local people, boats have to anchor the boat and come ashore by canoe. The only place that boats can stop is the biggest village on the island, Dusun Hili Badalu. The only problem is that the village is on the left side of the island coming from Sibolga. In the end, we are forced to turn around, passing the spot where we dropped off Mr. Luhut and make our way to the village.
The Island People
A few minutes later our speedboat rests in a very basic harbour built of driftwood and planks. A house on stilts can be seen at the end of the pier. Some local  fisherman can be seen preparing  bait on the terraces of their houses. After leaving the speed boat, we walk 150 metres along the long pier towards dry land. The poor condition of the pier makes visitors walk extra carefully. Some parts have gone rotten due to the weather. The conditions mirror the economy of Hili Badalu inhabitants. “We have fixed this pier a number of times, but every time it breaks again. We can’t afford to buy the materials necessary to fix it properly,” says Mr. Halawa, a local inhabitant, as we pass his house.

Similar to most Mursala Island dwellers, Mr. Halawa, and his family come from Nias. The Nias people are indeed famous for stepping out to new lands. Sibolgans, however, don’t wish to live on this island with an area of less than 800 hectares because they believe that this island is home to a spirit named tondi.
Forced by the need for new land, some Nias people decided to move and stay on this island. Today, more than 100 families live in small villages spread out across the island.
In order to cover their daily necessities, the Mursalans plant cassava and rubber. “We sell the rubber in Sibolga every 3 months using a fishing boat. It isn’t much, because we are still experimenting. The cassava is our daily food staple,” explains Mr. Halawa.
A unique feature of Hili Badalu village is the presence of squirrel traps in every tree. “It is difficult for us to enjoy the fruit we plant because the squirrels always eat them first. So we have to catch them,” says Mr. Ndruru, the village head of Hili Badalu.
Apart from rubber and cassava, the people of Mursala Island are trying to cultivate seaweed. However this business hasn’t shown satisfactory results. “There are a number of problems. Starting from water pollution to people cutting the ropes which hold the seaweed cultivation areas in place. We are trying to protect the water and forests from pollution because Mursala Island is a place that must be protected and looked after. However every time we try to start a new environmentally friendly initiative, there are hindrances from irresponsible individuals,” complains Mr. Ndruru.
Another problem is that this vast island doesn’t have an integrated village administration. The village head who is in charge of all the villages on Mursala Island is situated in an office in far-away Sibolga, so that the village is not supervised on a daily basis.
Mr. Ndruru complains that some village dwellers have been suffering from fever and bodily aches and pains which are the typical symptoms of Chikugunya. “There is a mobile health station to check the health of the villagers living on the islands, but they haven’t been seen for a while,” says Mr. Ndruru, who is planning to bring a number of villagers to Sibolga for medical check ups.
Living on this island paradise isn’t as comfortable as it seems, and lacks equality for its inhabitants. They need a central government which covers many issues, economics, security and health in order to ensure a healthy lifestyle for local inhabitants. Imagine if their conditions remain as they are now. Poverty could result in local inhabitants exploiting the virgin rainforest and coral reefs. The loss would be felt by the Sibolgans, even by the whole world. This is because Mursala Island’s reefs have become part of the Coral Reef Rehabilitation and Management Programme (COREMAP).
Snorkeling on White Island
In order to pick up Mr. Luhut before continuing our journey we bid the inhabitants of Hili Badalu Island goodbye. After that our boat speeds to the place where we had last left Mr. Luhut. He is unaware of our arrival as he is still observing something below the surface of the water. “Catch anything, Sir?” I ask as he surfaces next to our boat. Mr. Luhut smiles while showing off the fruit of his hunt. Eight red snappers and other kinds of fish weighing from about 4 to 5 kg slide off the harpoon gun. He is indeed an expert.
After the captain joins us, we sail towards Putih Island. This island is a small island about 12 nautical miles from Sibolga. It is located near Marsala Island. Wisata Indah Hotel has built a simple cottage for its guests who wish to stay or just rest after diving or fishing around Mursala Island.
At 15.47, we arrive at Putih Island pier, which is located across the narrow channel separating this island from Mursala Island. We are welcomed by the island attendant. The coconuts have to be tried here.
There are less than 7 simple cottages each with a capacity 1 or 2 people. The price for staying here is included in the price for the boat. The biggest problem here is the lack of fresh water here, which is dependent on rain fall. This is why this island is just a stopover place despite its beauty being a potential tourist attraction encouraging longer stays. The beauty of the island is comparable to that of the location of the film “The Beach” around Phuket, Thailand. 
We don’t waste anymore time. After putting on our snorkeling gear, we float on the surface of the clear blue waters, observing the underwater world in the bright Indian Ocean. The calm is only disturbed by small waves washing over us and the coral in various colours: red, grey, green and blue. This is home to many colourful fish chasing each other.
Believe it or not, coral is the source for a number of fishing industries. Of the 132 types of fish with economic value in Indonesia, 32 live on coral reefs. Reef dwelling fish have become an export commodity due to its unique taste. A healthy coral reef can supply 3 to 10 tonnes of fish per square kilometer per year. This is the kind of world which causes Mr. Luhut to play catch with the fish.
Poncan Gadang Island
At 8 o’clock the next day, we return by 40 HP boat which acts as a ferry for employees to Poncan Island. This island is situated 20 minutes from Sibolga Island and has a famous resort, Sibolga Marine, a branch of Wisata Indah Hotel. Every morning and afternoon, this boat ferries the 33 employees back and forth from the resort.
In fact, Sibolga Bay has 2 islands named Poncan (which means “island” in the local language), Poncan Gadang (Big Island) and Poncan Ketek (Small Island). The latter doesn’t have a resort because it is too small and doesn’t have a spring. Even so, the smaller island is said to have played a role in the history of Sibolga. Before Sibolga was inhabited, Poncan Ketek was the first trading post for Tapian Nauli Area.
About 20 minutes later, our small boat arrives in Poncan Gadang Island. The resort manager, Mr. Alvi, shows us around the island. In contrast to Mursala with its virgin rainforest, this island has complete facilities for its visitors. There are 70 rooms here ranging from standard, superior to deluxe. The price range is from Rp 225,000 to Rp 580,000 per night. This includes breakfast for two.
The Poncan Gadang resort has fishing, snorkeling and diving equipment for rent. Apart from this it is possible to use the jet skis and banana boat. For families, there is a playground with a swing and slide as well as a volley ball court. This is the reason why visitors use this island as a base for exploring the other islands in the bay.
Even though this island is of medium size, it has a small tropical rainforest. This forest has a historical site, the Japanese Caves, leftover from WWII.
While waiting to be picked up, we spend our time chatting and playing volleyball with the hotel’s employees. In the afternoon, we snorkel around the pier. We feel satisfied with our time spent around Sibolga Bay.
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How to Get There
Medan-Sibolga: Rp 100,000 to 120,000 by taxi or public bus from Jalan Sisingamangaraja, Medan.
Chartered boat from Sibolga to Poncan Gandang Island: Rp 300,000 per group (13 people). Can be rented from Wisata Indah Hotel or local fishermen.

Chartered boat from Sibolga to Mursala and PutihIslands: Rp 1,320,000 to Rp 8,500,000 per day. This boat can only be rented from Wisata Indah Hotel. The prize depends on the size of machine and capacity of the boat.

Who are Deny Carmanita and Pepi Fernando?

To be honest, I seldom watch TV, so when people talked about this name, I have no idea whom they refer, until I google it. I found she is actually a terrorist together with his husband Pepi Fernando, had mastered bombing in churches, express way and some bombs sent personally to some individuals who are known for their moderate thoughts. Shame on them. I don't know why there are so many terrorist in this country. I feel unsafe....helpppppppp...

US President Barack Obama would visit Australia and Indonesia in June

US President Barack Obama postpones Australia, Indonesia trip | News.com.au

US President Barack Obama today postponed his trip to Australia and Indonesia until a later date, as he attempts to push his health care reform bill through Congress.

"We greatly regret the delay of the trip," White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told reporters, but he added the "passage of health insurance reform is of paramount importance and the President is determined to see this battle through".

Mr Gibbs said Mr Obama had called Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and would later call Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd to tell him he would have to put the trip off to a "later date".

The President's spokesman said it was now clear that a House of Representatives vote on health care reform could not now take place until Sunday afternoon at the earliest.

Mr Obama had already delayed his departure by three days until Sunday morning in a bid to finally pilot his top domestic priority to extend health care coverage to some 32 million Americans through Congress.

Barrack Obama will be in Indonesia in March 2010

Us President Barack Obama will visit Indonesia and Australia in March


(Obama will visit Indonesia in March. During his childhood, Obama lived in Menteng Jakarta for 4 years. Therefore, he can speak Indonesian language. The childhood connection have made him hugely popular here. Even we have some Obama statues placed in Yogyakarta and Jakarta. Though some people protested it and asked the statues to be replaced by Indonesian genuine hero.  )

US President Barack Obama will will visit Australia in March after a trip with his family to his childhood home in Indonesia.

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said Mr Obama looked forward to discussing issues including green energy, climate change, economic recovery and non-proliferation with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

Mr Rudd and Mr Obama have met a number of times since Mr Obama became President last year and have forged a close diplomatic relationship.

Mr Rudd welcomed the President's visit.

"President Obama will be a most welcome guest in Australia on his first official visit," he said.

"Australia's relationship with the United States of America is our most important international partnership.

"We are allies, we are trading partners, and we cooperate on the international challenges confronting all nations."

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This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between Australia and the US.

"Our formal military alliance, the ANZUS Treaty, has been in force for nearly 60 years," Mr Rudd said.

"The President's visit will underline the strength and breadth of the relationship."

Mr Obama, who was known as "Little Barry" when he lived in Jakarta with his mother in the 1960s, said last year in Singapore that he was looking forward to visiting his old haunts in Indonesia.

He was invited to make the trip by Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and both sides have said they plan to use Mr Obama's childhood ties to the country to further tighten a crucial pan-Pacific relationship.

"This trip is an important part of the president's continuing effort to broaden and strengthen the partnerships that are necessary to advance our security and prosperity," Mr Gibbs said.

Mr Gibbs said that Mr Obama would inaugurate the US-Indonesia Comprehensive Partnership during the visit, which is intended to further deepen ties between the two countries.

It is possible he will introduce his wife, Michelle, and their daughters, Malia and Sasha, to neighbourhoods he knew as a boy and also to some old school friends.

Mr Obama's visit will be greeted with massive expectations in Indonesia, and a comprehensive security operation in the world's most populous Muslim nation.

The childhood connection and his knowledge of a few words of the Indonesian language have made him hugely popular in the country of 234 million people, 90 per cent of whom are Muslim.

I just got back from an Ear-Nose-Throat doctor. My left ear has been
painful on and off since 13 January. Therefore, I decided to go to
see doctor this morning. And the result, as doctor said, nothing
happens to my ear. He said, my left ear is fine. He said that the pain
maybe from other resources because the nerves between ear, nose and
throat are conjugated with brain. He just gave me some painkillers
Ultracet (Jansen-Cilag) and Nutriflam. I asked him what kind of
medicine he prescribed for me. "Is that parasetamol," I asked. "No, it
is not. It is herbal," the doctor answered.
What an explanation! When I checked to the chemist, the prescribed
medicine contains parasetamoI and tramadol HCl. I think he is just
creepy. He is not professional although he has a degree for his
expertise. Also he has bad manner. He came late and didn't say
anything for that. Meanwhile there are 4 patient waiting for 45
minutes- 1,5 hour. Then, during consultations, his mobile rang and he
just picked up his phone and talked loudly. I was so surprised to
see the doctor manner.

Memahami Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2006 Tentang Perlindungan Saksi Dan Korban

Memahami Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2006 Tentang Perlindungan Saksi Dan Korban | Legalitas.Org

Saksi dan/atau korban memiliki peran penting dalam penyelesaian permasalahan hukum khususnya dalam proses peradilan di Indonesia. Saksi dan/atau Korban adalah mereka yang mendengar, melihat, atau mengalami sendiri terjadinya suatu tindak pidana sehingga keterangan Saksi dan/atau Korban sangat dibutuhkan dalam upaya mencari dan menemukan kejelasan tentang tindak pidana yang dilakukan oleh pelaku tindak pidana. Keterangan saksi dan/atau korban merupakan salah satu alat bukti yang sah dalam proses peradilan. Keterangan sebagai alat bukti menjadi salah satu bahan pertimbangan yang utama bagi hakim dalam mencari fakta guna memperoleh putusan yang seadil-adilnya dalam suatu proses peradilan.

Permasalahan yang timbul berkaitan dengan saksi dan/atau korban dalam tatanan praktik adalah aparat penegak hukum sering mengalami kesulitan dalam mencari dan menemukan kejelasan tentang tindak pidana yang dilakukan oleh pelaku tindak pidana karena tidak dapat menghadirkan Saksi dan/atau Korban. Hal tersebut disebabkan adanya ancaman, baik fisik maupun psikis terhadap diri saksi dan/atau korban, keluarga dan harta bendanya dari pihak tertentu sehingga saksi dan/atau korban tidak berani memberikan keterangan yang sebenarnya atau berpura-pura tidak tahu akan kejadian yang sebenarnya. Kendala lainnya yang dihadapi aparat penegak hukum yaitu tidak ada jaminan terhadap Saksi, Korban, dan pelapor bahwa mereka tidak dapat dituntut secara hukum baik pidana maupun perdata atas laporan, kesaksian yang akan, sedang, atau telah diberikannya.

Sehubungan dengan hal tersebut, tentunya perlu dibentuk suatu pengaturan yang jelas untuk dijadikan acuan bagi aparat penegak hukum dalam memberikan perlindungan dan hak-hak saksi dan/atau korban selama menjadi saksi dan/atau korban dalam proses peradilan.

Jadi dipandang perlu atau urgen pembentukan payung hukum yang jelas untuk dijadikan acuan bagi aparat penegak hukum dalam memberikan perlindungan dan hak-hak dari saksi dan/atau korban karena aturan yang terdahulu sudah tidak sesuai dengan dinamika hukum yang berada dimasyarakat saat ini.

Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2006 tentang Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban merupakan salah satu solusi yang diberikan pemerintah dalam penyelesaian permasalahan hukum di Indonesia yaitu salah satunya dengan dibentuk suatu lembaga khusus yang mempunyai tugas dan wewenang memberikan perlindungan dan hak-hak pada Saksi dan Korban dalam semua tahap proses peradilan pidana dalam lingkungan peradilan. Lembaga khusus yang dimaksud dalam Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2006 tentang Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban adalah Lembaga Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban atau disingkat LPSK yang berkedudukan di Ibu Kota Negara Republik Indonesia dan dapat mempunyai perwakilan di daerah sesuai dengan keperluan.



Lembaga Perlindungan Saksi Dan Korban

Pembentukan Lembaga Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban menurut Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2006 tentang Lembaga Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban dimaksudkan untuk memberikan perlindungan pada Saksi dan Korban dalam semua tahap proses peradilan pidana dalam lingkungan peradilan yang tujuannya memberikan rasa aman kepada Saksi dan/atau Korban dalam memberikan keterangan pada setiap proses peradilan pidana.

Dalam UU PSK juga definisikan apa yang dimaksud dengan saksi dan korban yang terdapat pada Pasal 1 UU PSK yaitu yang dimaksud dengan ”Saksi adalah orang yang dapat memberikan keterangan guna kepentingan penyelidikan, penyidikan, penuntutan, dan pemeriksaan di sidang pengadilan tentang suatu perkara pidana yang ia dengar sendiri, ia lihat sendiri, dan/atau ia alami sendiri” dan ”Korban adalah seseorang yang mengalami penderitaan fisik, mental, dan/atau kerugian ekonomi yang diakibatkan oleh suatu tindak pidana. Sedangkan yang dimaksud dengan ”Lembaga Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban dalam Undang-Undang Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban adalah suatu lembaga yang bertugas dan berwenang untuk memberikan perlindungan dan hak-hak lain kepada Saksi dan/atau Korban”.

Sebagai lembaga khusus yang memberikan perlindungan dan hak-hak lain kepada saksi mempunyai tugas dan wewenang yaitu sebagai lembaga yang bertanggung jawab untuk menangani pemberian perlindungan dan bantuan pada Saksi dan/atau Korban. Lembaga ini bertanggung jawab kepada presiden dan memberi laporan secara berkala tentang pelaksanaan tugas LPSKkepada Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat paling sedikit sekali dalam 1 (satu) tahun.

Keanggotaan LPSK terdiri atas 7 (tujuh) orang yang berasal dari unsur profesional yang mempunyai pengalaman di bidang pemajuan, pemenuhan, perlindungan, penegakan hukum dan hak asasi manusia, kepolisian, kejaksaan, Departemen Hukum dan Hak Asasi Manusia, akademisi, advokat, atau lembaga swadaya masyarakat. Masa jabatan anggota LPSK adalah 5 (lima) tahun Setelah berakhir masa jabatan sebagaimana dimaksud pada ayat (1), anggota LPSK dapat dipilih kembali dalam jabatan yang sama, hanya untuk 1 (satu) kali masa jabatan berikutnya.

Struktur organisasi LPSK terdiri atas Pimpinan LPSK yang terdiri atas Ketua dan Wakil Ketua yang merangkap anggota.dan Anggota. Pimpinan LPSK berasal dan dipilih dari dan oleh anggota LPSK. Ketentuan lebih lanjut mengenai tata cara pemilihan Pimpinan LPSK diatur dengan Peraturan LPSK. Masa jabatan Ketua dan Wakil Ketua LPSK selama 5 (lima) tahundan sesudahnya dapat dipilih kembali dalam jabatan yang sama, hanya untuk 1 (satu) kali masa jabatan berikutnya.

Dalam pelaksanaan tugasnya, LPSK dibantu oleh sebuah sekretariat yang bertugas memberikan pelayanan administrasi bagi kegiatan LPSK. Sekretariat LPSK dipimpin oleh seorang Sekretaris yang berasal dari Pegawai Negeri Sipil yang diangkat dan diberhentikan oleh Menteri Sekretaris Negara.

Untuk pertama kali seleksi dan pemilihan anggota LPSK dilakukan oleh Presiden. Dalam pelaksanaannya Presiden membentuk panitia seleksi yang terdiri dari 5 (lima) orang dengan susunan 2 (dua) orang berasal dari unsur pemerintah dan 3 (tiga) orang berasal dari unsur masyarakat.

Tahapan Pembentukannya sebagai berikut:

* Panitia seleksi mengusulkan kepada Presiden sejumlah 21 (dua puluh satu) orang calon yang telah memenuhi persyaratan.
* Presiden memilih sebanyak 14 (empat belas) orang dari sejumlah calon sebagaimana dimaksud pada ayat (1) untuk diajukan kepada Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat.
* Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat memilih dan menyetujui 7 (tujuh) orang dari calon.
* Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat memberikan persetujuan dalam jangka waktu paling lambat 30 (tiga puluh) hari terhitung sejak tanggal pengajuan calon anggota LPSK diterima.
* Dalam hal Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat tidak memberikan persetujuan terhadap seorang calon atau lebih yang diajukan oleh Presiden, dalam jangka waktu paling lambat 30 (tiga puluh) hari terhitung sejak tanggal diterimanya pengajuan calon anggota LPSK, Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat harus memberitahukan kepada Presiden disertai dengan alasan.
* Dalam hal Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat tidak memberikan persetujuan sebagaimana dimaksud pada ayat (2), Presiden mengajukan calon pengganti sebanyak 2 (dua) kali jumlah calon anggota yang tidak disetujui.
* Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat wajib memberikan persetujuan terhadap calon pengganti sebagaimana dimaksud pada ayat (3), dalam jangka waktu paling lambat 30 (tiga puluh) hari terhitung sejak tanggal pengajuan calon pengganti diterima.
* Presiden menetapkan anggota LPSK yang telah memperoleh persetujuan Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat, dalam jangka waktu paling lambat 30 (tiga puluh) hari terhitung sejak tanggal persetujuan diterima Presiden.



Anggota LPSK diangkat oleh Presiden dengan persetujuan Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat. Syarat seseorang untuk dapat diangkat menjadi anggota LPSK menurut UU PSK adalah sebagai berikut:

a. warga negara Indonesia;

b. sehat jasmani dan rohani;

c. tidak pernah dijatuhi pidana karena melakukan tindak pidana kejahatan yang ancaman pidananya paling singkat 5 (lima) tahun;

d. berusia paling rendah 40 (empat puluh) tahun dan paling tinggi 65 (enam puluh lima) tahun pada saat proses pemilihan;

e. berpendidikan paling rendah S1 (strata satu);

f. berpengalaman di bidang hukum dan hak asasi manusia paling singkat 10 (sepuluh) tahun;

g. memiliki integritas dan kepribadian yang tidak tercela; dan

h. memiliki nomor pokok wajib pajak.



Anggota LPSK diberhentikan karena:

a. meninggal dunia;

b. masa tugasnya telah berakhir;

c. atas permintaan sendiri;

d. sakit jasmani atau rohani yang mengakibatkan tidak dapat menjalankan tugas selama 30 (tiga puluh) hari secara terus menerus;

e. melakukan perbuatan tercela dan/atau hal-hal lain yang berdasarkan Keputusan LPSK yang bersangkutan harus diberhentikan karena telah mencemarkan martabat dan reputasi, dan/atau mengurangi kemandirian dan kredibilitas LPSK; atau

f. dipidana karena bersalah melakukan tindak pidana kejahatan yang ancaman pidananya paling singkat 5 (lima) tahun.



Lembaga ini berdasarkan UU PSK harus dibentuk dalam waktu paling lambat 1 (satu) tahun setelah Undang-Undang ini diundangkan yang diundangkan pada tanggal 11 Agustus 2006 jadi pada tanggal 11 Agustus 2007 harus sudah terbentuk dan mulai menjalankan tugasnya. Biaya yang diperlukan untuk pelaksanaan tugasnya dibebankan kepada Anggaran Pendapatan dan Belanja Negara.



PERLINDUNGAN SAKSI DAN KORBAN

1. Asas Perlindungan Saksi Dan Korban

Perlindungan terhadap Saksi dan Korban yang dianut oleh LPSK menurut UU Nomor 13 Tahun 2006 yaitu berasaskan pada:

a. penghargaan atas harkat dan martabat manusia;

b. rasa aman;

c. keadilan;

d. tidak diskriminatif; dan

e. kepastian hukum.



2. Hak Saksi Dan Korban

Seorang Saksi dan Korban berhak:

a. memperoleh perlindungan atas keamanan pribadi, keluarga, dan harta bendanya, serta bebas dari Ancaman yang berkenaan dengan kesaksian yang akan, sedang, atau telah diberikannya;

b. ikut serta dalam proses memilih dan menentukan bentuk perlindungan dan dukungan keamanan;

c. memberikan keterangan tanpa tekanan;

d. mendapat penerjemah;

e. bebas dari pertanyaan yang menjerat;

f. mendapatkan informasi mengenai perkembangan kasus;

g. mendapatkan informasi mengenai putusan pengadilan;

h. mengetahui dalam hal terpidana dibebaskan;

i. mendapat identitas baru;

j. mendapatkan tempat kediaman baru;

k. memperoleh penggantian biaya transportasi sesuai dengan kebutuhan;

l. mendapat nasihat hukum; dan/atau

m. memperoleh bantuan biaya hidup sementara sampai batas waktu perlindungan berakhir.



Bagi korban dalam pelanggaran hak asasi manusia yang berat, selain berhak atas hak diatas juga berhak untuk mendapatkan:

a. bantuan medis; dan

b. bantuan rehabilitasi psiko-sosial.



3. Kompensasi Dan Restitusi

· Korban melalui LPSK berhak mengajukan ke pengadilan berupa:

o hak atas kompensasi dalam kasus pelanggaran hak asasi manusia yang berat;

o hak atas restitusi atau ganti kerugian yang menjadi tanggung jawabpelaku tindak pidana.

· Keputusan mengenai kompensasi dan restitusi diberikan oleh pengadilan.

· Ketentuan lebih lanjut mengenai pemberian kompensasi dan restitusi diatur dengan Peraturan Pemerintah.

· Perlindungan dan hak Saksi dan Korban diberikan LPSK sejak tahap penyelidikan dimulai dan berakhir.



4. Jaminan Perlindungan terhadap saksi dan korban

§ Saksi dan/atau Korban yang merasa dirinya berada dalam Ancaman yang sangat besar, atas persetujuan hakim dapat memberikan kesaksian tanpa hadir langsung di pengadilan tempat perkara tersebut sedang diperiksa.

· Saksi dan/atau Korban dapat memberikan kesaksiannya secara tertulis yang disampaikan di hadapan pejabat yang berwenang dan membubuhkan tanda tangannya pada berita acara yang memuat tentang kesaksian tersebut.

· Saksi dan/atau Korban dapat pula didengar kesaksiannya secara langsung melalui sarana elektronik dengan didampingi oleh pejabat yang berwenang.

· Saksi, Korban, dan pelapor tidak dapat dituntut secara hukum baik pidana maupun perdata atas laporan, kesaksian yang akan, sedang, atau telah diberikannya kecuali terhadap Saksi, Korban, dan pelapor yang memberikan keterangan tidak dengan itikad baik.



· Seorang Saksi yang juga tersangka dalam kasus yang sama tidak dapat dibebaskan dari tuntutan pidana apabila ia ternyata terbukti secara sah dan meyakinkan bersalah, tetapi kesaksiannya dapat dijadikan pertimbangan hakim dalam meringankan pidana yang akan dijatuhkan.



5. Perjanjian Perlindungan

Perjanjian perlindungan LPSK terhadap Saksi dan/atau Korban tindak pidana diberikan dengan mempertimbangkan syarat sebagai berikut:

a. sifat pentingnya keterangan Saksi dan/atau Korban;

b. tingkat ancaman yang membahayakan Saksi dan/atau Korban;

c. hasil analisis tim medis atau psikolog terhadap Saksi dan/atau Korban;

d. rekam jejak kejahatan yang pernah dilakukan oleh Saksi dan/atau Korban.



6. Tata Cara Memperoleh Perlindungan

· Tata cara memperoleh perlindungan sebagai berikut:

a. Saksi dan/atau Korban yang bersangkutan, baik atas inisiatif sendiri maupun atas permintaan pejabat yang berwenang, mengajukan permohonan secara tertulis kepada LPSK;

b. LPSK segera melakukan pemeriksaan terhadap permohonan sebagaimana dimaksud pada huruf a;

c. Keputusan LPSK diberikan secara tertulis paling lambat 7 (tujuh) hari sejak permohonan perlindungan diajukan.

· Dalam hal LPSK menerima permohonan Saksi dan/atau Korban sebagaimana dimaksud dalam Pasal 29, Saksi dan/atau Korban menandatangani pernyataan kesediaan mengikuti syarat dan ketentuan perlindungan Saksi dan Korban.

· Pernyataan kesediaan mengikuti syarat dan ketentuan perlindungan Saksi dan Korban memuat:

a. kesediaan Saksi dan/atau Korban untuk memberikan kesaksian dalam proses peradilan;

b. kesediaan Saksi dan/atau Korban untuk menaati aturan yang berkenaan dengan keselamatannya;

c. kesediaan Saksi dan/atau Korban untuk tidak berhubungan dengan cara apa pun dengan orang lain selain atas persetujuan LPSK, selama ia berada dalam perlindungan LPSK;

d. kewajiban Saksi dan/atau Korban untuk tidak memberitahukan kepada siapa pun mengenai keberadaannya di bawah perlindunganLPSK; dan

e. hal-hal lain yang dianggap perlu oleh LPSK.

· LPSK wajib memberikan perlindungan sepenuhnya kepada Saksi dan/atau Korban, termasuk keluarganya, sejak ditandatanganinya pernyataan kesediaan.

· Perlindungan atas keamanan Saksi dan/atau Korban hanya dapat dihentikan berdasarkan alasan:

a. Saksi dan/atau Korban meminta agar perlindungan terhadapnya dihentikan dalam hal permohonan diajukan atas inisiatif sendiri;

b. atas permintaan pejabat yang berwenang dalam hal permintaan perlindungan terhadap Saksi dan/atau Korban berdasarkan atas permintaan pejabat yang bersangkutan;

c. Saksi dan/atau Korban melanggar ketentuan sebagaimana tertulis dalam perjanjian; atau

d. LPSK berpendapat bahwa Saksi dan/atau Korban tidak lagi memerlukan perlindungan berdasarkan bukti-bukti yang meyakinkan.

· Penghentian perlindungan keamanan seorang Saksi dan/atau Korban harus dilakukan secara tertulis.

· Bantuan diberikan kepada seorang Saksi dan/atau Korban atas permintaan tertulis dari yang bersangkutan ataupun orang yang mewakilinya kepada LPSK.

· LPSK menentukan kelayakan diberikannya bantuan kepada Saksi dan/atau Korban.

· Dalam hal Saksi dan/atau Korban layak diberi bantuan, LPSK menentukan jangka waktu dan besaran biaya yang diperlukan.

· Keputusan LPSK mengenai pemberian bantuan kepada Saksi dan/atau Korban harus diberitahukan secara tertulis kepada yang bersangkutan dalam waktu paling lambat 7 (tujuh) hari kerja sejak diterimanya permintaan tersebut.

· Dalam melaksanakan pemberian perlindungan dan bantuan, LPSK dapat bekerja sama dengan instansi terkait yang berwenang.



PENUTUP

Dengan dibentuknya Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2006 tentang Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban yang diikuti dengan pembentukan Lembaga Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban sebagai institusi yang memberikan jaminan perlindungan dan hak-hak saksi dan korban diharapkan dapat membantu proses pemulihan krisis di negara ini yang salah satunya oleh kejahatan-kejahatan sistemik yang sulit dibuktikan dikarenakan aparat penegak hukum tidak dapat menghadirkan saksi atau kesaksian yang diberikan tidak objektif karena adanya ancaman dan tekanan terhadap saksi atau korban baik secara fisik maupun psikis. Semoga bermamfaat.

Gus Dur

detikNews : Gus Dur, Kiai, Cendekiawan, Politisi, dan Guru Bangsa yang Kontroversial

KH Abdurrahman Wahid yang sering disapa Gus Dur dikenal sebagai tokoh memiliki banyak julukan. Dia adalah seorang kiai dan tokoh Nahdlatul Ulama (NU). Dia juga seorang politisi. Dia juga sering disebut sebagai guru bangsa. Namun, Gus Dur juga dikenal sebagai tokoh kontroversi.

Gus Dur lahir di Jombang, Jawa Timur, 7 September 1940. Dia beristrikan Sinta Nuriyah dan memiliki empat anak perempuan. Salah satu anak perempuannya, Siti Zannuba Arifah Chafsoh alias Yenny mengikuti langkah Gus Dur sebagai politisi.

Sepak terjang Gus Dur di negeri Indonesia mendominasi pemberitaan pers sejak dulu. Gus Dur sebagai ketua umum PBNU dalam Muktamar NU tahun 1984. Lantas Gus Dur terpilih kembali untuk kedua kalinya dalam Muktamar Nu pada 1989 sebagai ketua umum PBNU 1989-1994. Dan pada Muktamar NU 1994, Gus Dur kembali terpilih sebagai ketua umum organisasi muslim terbesar di Indonesia hingga 1999.

Pada 1991, sikap kontroversi Gus Dur sempat mengemuka. Dia menolak bergabung ke dalam Ikatan Cendekiawan Muslim Indonesia (ICMI), organisasi cendekiawan yang dipimpin BJ Habibie. Soeharto mendukung organisasi ini. Tokoh intelektual muslim seperti Nurcholish Madjid alias Cak Nur dan Amien Rais dari Muhammadiyah aktif di organisasi ini. Namun, dalam perkembangannya, Amien Rais juga mundur dari Dewan Pakar ICMI karena berseberangan dengan penguasa.

Beberapa tokoh mengajak Gus Dur bergabung. Namun, Gus Dur menolak karena ia mengira ICMI mendukung sektarianisme dan akan membuat Soeharto tetap kuat. Pada tahun itu juga, Gus Dur melawan ICMI dengan membentuk Forum Demokrasi, organisasi yang terdiri dari 45 intelektual dari berbagai komunitas religius dan sosial.

Perjalanan Gus Dur semakin kontroversi setelah itu. Gus Dur pernah digandeng Siti Hardiyanti Rukmana alias Mbak Tutut untuk berkampanye. Gus Dur pernah mendukung bahwa Mbak Tutut sebagai calon presiden.

Karir Gus Dur di politik semakin mengkilap setelah Soeharto lengser dari kursi presiden. Gus Dur mendirikan Partai Kebangkitan Bangsa (PKB). Dan dalam Sidang Istimewa MPR pada 2001, Gus Dur terpilih sebagai presiden RI menggantikan BJ Habibie. Dia berduet dengan Megawati sebagai presiden-wapres RI periode 1999-2004.

Namun, di tengah jalan, Gus Dur harus turun tahta. Kebijakannya sebagai presiden yang kontroversial membuat Gus Dur dihadapkan pada Sidang Istimewa MPR pada 2001. Tepat 23 Juli 2001, Gus Dur dilengserkan MPR dan kursi presiden digantikan oleh Megawati Soekarno Putri.

Selama menjadi presiden, Gus Dur membuat kebijakan-kebijakan penting, yang sebagiannya dianggap kontroversi. Pada Januari 2001, Gus Dur mengumumkan bahwa Tahun Baru Cina (Imlek) menjadi hari libur opsional. Tindakan ini diikuti dengan pencabutan larangan penggunaan huruf Tionghoa.

Pada pertemuan dengan rektor-rektor universitas pada 27 Januari 2001, Gus Dur menyatakan kemungkinan Indonesia masuk kedalam anarkisme. Ia lalu mengusulkan pembubaran DPR jika hal tersebut terjadi. Gerakan anti Gus Dur pun muncul. Pada 1 Februari 2001, DPR bertemu untuk mengeluarkan nota terhadap Gus Dur. Nota tersebut berisi diadakannya Sidang Khusus MPR yang memungkinkan pelengseran terhadap Gus Dur.

Terhadap ancaman ini, pendukung Gus Dur pun berontak. Pendukung Gus Dur di Pasuruan, misalnya, terus menunjukkan dukungan mereka kepada Gus Dur dan pada bulan April mengumumkan bahwa mereka siap untuk mempertahankan Gus Dur sebagai presiden hingga mati.

Pada bulan Maret, Gus Dur mencoba membalas oposisi dengan melakukan reshuffle kabinet. Menteri Kehakiman dan Hak Asasi Manusia Yusril Ihza Mahendra dicopot dari kabinet karena ia mengumumkan permintaan agar Gus Dur mundur. Menteri Kehutanan Nurmahmudi Ismail juga dicopot dengan alasan berbeda visi dengan Presiden, berlawanan dalam pengambilan kebijakan, dan diangap tidak dapat mengendalikan Partai Keadilan, yang pada saat itu massanya ikut dalam aksi menuntut Gus Dur mundur.

Kondisi politik yang makin memanas, membuat Gus Dur mulai putus asa. Dia meminta Menteri Koordinator Politik dan Keamanan (Menko Polkam) Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) untuk menyatakan keadaan darurat. Namun, SBY menolak perintah itu. Gus Dur pun memberhentikan SBY dari jabatannya beserta empat menteri lainnya dalam reshuffle kabinet pada tanggal 1 Juli 2001.

Akhirnya pada 20 Juli 2001, Amien Rais menyatakan bahwa Sidang Istimewa MPR akan dimajukan pada 23 Juli. TNI menurunkan 40.000 tentara di Jakarta dan juga menurunkan tank yang menunjuk ke arah Istana Negara sebagai bentuk penunjukan kekuatan. Gus Dur kemudian mengumumkan pemberlakuan dekrit yang berisi (1) pembubaran MPR/DPR, (2) mengembalikan kedaulatan ke tangan rakyat dengan mempercepat pemilu dalam waktu satu tahun, dan (3) membekukan Partai Golkar, sebagai bentuk perlawanan terhadap Sidang Istimewa MPR. Namun dekrit tersebut tidak memperoleh dukungan. Dan pada 23 Juli, MPR secara resmi melengserkan Gus Dur.

Setelah lengser, Gus Dur terus berpolitik di PKB dengan posisi sebagai ketua dewan Syuro. Namun, dalam perkembangannya, PKB terbelah. Catatan terbelahnya PKB terus terjadi hingga menjelang Pemilu 2009. Sampai akhirnya, PKB pimpinan Muhaimin Iskandar diputuskan pengadilan sebagai PKB yang sah, sementara kubu Gus Dur kalah.

Selama menjadi mantan presiden, Gus Dur tetap memberikan pernyataan-pernyataan yang kontroversial termasuk berseberangan dengan Presiden Megawati dan Presiden SBY. Gus Dur pun sering disebut bapak dan guru bangsa, dengan harapan Gus Dur menjadi negawaran sejati. Di kalangan aktivis pro demokrasi, Gus Dur juga dikenal sebagai tokoh demokrasi dan pluralisme. Di kalangan akar rumput, Gus Dur dianggap sebagai wali.

Dalam riwayat pendidikan, Gus Dur pernah belajar di Universitas Al Azhar Kairo, mesir. Ia pergi ke Mesir pada November 1963. Namun, kuliahnya di Al Azhar kurang mulus. Pada 1966, Gus Dur pindah ke Universitas Baghdad. Gus Dur menyelesaikan pendidikannya di Universitas Bagdhad pada 1970. Gus Dur juga pernah belajar di Universitas Leiden, belanda. Dari Belanda, Gus Dur pergi ke Jerman dan Perancis sebelum kembali ke Indonesia tahun 1971.

Di usia ke-69, Gus Dur meninggalkan dunia yang fana ini. Gus Dur wafat pada Rabu (30/12/2009) sekitar pukul 18.45 WIB setelah dirawat di RSCM selama hampir sepekan. Saat ini, tokoh demokrasi, kiai, cendekiawan, bapak bangsa, dan politisi ini sudah tiada. Selamat jalan Gus....


Karir


* Ketua Umum Nahdatul Ulama (1984-1999)
* Ketua Forum Demokrasi (1990)
* Ketua Konferensi Agama dan Perdamaian Sedunia (1994)
* Anggota MPR (1999)
* Presiden Republik Indonesia (20 Oktober 1999-23 Juli 2001)


Daftar Penghargaan


* 1991: Penghargaan Dakwah Islam dari pemerintah Mesir
* 1993: Gus Dur menerima Ramon Magsaysay Award, sebuah penghargaan yang cukup prestisius untuk kategori Community Leadership.
* 2004: Gus Dur ditabiskan sebagai Bapak Tionghoa oleh beberapa tokoh Tionghoa Semarang di Kelenteng Tay Kak Sie, Gang Lombok
* 2006: Gus Dur mendapatkan Tasrif Award-AJI sebagai Pejuang Kebebasan Pers 2006 dari Aliansi Jurnalis Independen (AJI).


Doktor Honoris Causa


* Doktor Kehormatan bidang Filsafat Hukum dari Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand (2000)
* Doktor Kehormatan dari Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand (2000)
* Doktor Kehormatan bidang Ilmu Hukum dan Politik, Ilmu Ekonomi dan Manajemen, dan Ilmu Humaniora dari Pantheon Sorborne University, Paris, Perancis (2000)
* Doktor Kehormatan dari Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand (2000)
* Doktor Kehormatan dari Twente University, Belanda (2000)
* Doktor Kehormatan dari Jawaharlal Nehru University, India (2000)
* Doktor Kehormatan dari Soka Gakkai University, Tokyo, Jepang (2002)
* Doktor Kehormatan dari Sun Moon University, Seoul, Korea Selatan (2003)
* Doktor Kehormatan bidang Hukum dari Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea Selatan (2003)
* Doktor Kehormatan bidang Kemanusiaan dari Netanya University, Israel (2003)

SBY's Speech on the Jakarta Bombings Full Text

SBY's Speech on the Jakarta Bombings: Full Text

A full translation of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's speech to the nation on the Jakarta bomb attacks, delivered at the Presidential Palace on Friday afternoon:

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh,

Greetings to everyone,

My fellow countrymen and women, to all Indonesians that I love, wherever you are. Today is a black dot in our history [as a nation]. Once again, there has been an attack or a bombing committed by terrorists in Jakarta. It is suspected to have been committed by a group of terrorists, although it may not necessarily be the same terrorism network that we have realized cause nothing but sufferings and troubles that all Indonesians have had to bear.

This barbaric act has brought about innocent casualties as well. Therefore, on this opportunity, on behalf of the country and the government, and as a person, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. To all the victims, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

My fellow countrymen and women, the inhuman and thoughtless bombing occurred just when our nation had held its presidential election and while the General Elections Commission (KPU) is still tallying the votes. It has greatly disrupted the security and peace of the country while people want a safe, peaceful and conducive situation. People want the conclusion of the 2009 General Elections to be the starting point for us to unite and rebuild our country for the sake of all Indonesian people.

The bombing was committed when people were still concerned with political brouhaha at the elite level, also — as I have been noticing everyday — with provocative remarks that maintain heated and hostile circumstances, which is not the aspiration of the people who fulfilled their political duties a few weeks ago.

My fellow countrymen and women, I believe almost all of us feel sympathy and sadness, and cry inside, as I do now. Indeed, there are few people who are laughing and screaming in delight, satisfying their maddening anger. These few people, heartless and careless for the destruction of our country from terrorism, do not care about the vast implications of their brutality toward our economy, business climate, tourism, image in the world and many other factors.

Presently, my brothers and sisters, beside us, the government is performing emergency response measures to treat the victims of the bombing. An investigation is on the way as well. I have received a preliminary report of the ongoing investigation. After I read the report, I instructed the Chief of Police, the National Intelligence Agency and other related state institutions to conduct a proper and thorough investigation and to bring the perpetrators to justice.


I believe, as we have discovered before, that the perpetrators and the people who masterminded this terror will be apprehended and we will prosecute them under the law. I have instructed law enforcers to prosecute anyone involved. Whoever he or she is, from whatever political rank and background.


This morning, I have received many statements, or reminders, that made me theorize, or at least be concerned, that this terrorism is related to the result of the presidential election. I would respond like this — that we should not point our fingers, or blame someone without proof. All theories and speculations must be proven in court. Our country is a lawful country, as well as a democratic one. Therefore, the norms of law and democracy must be enacted properly. If someone is guilty under the law, then we could say that the person is guilty.


I must say for the first time to all Indonesians that during the series of legislative and presidential elections in 2009, there were several intelligence reports that were gathered by law enforcers. Once again, this information has never been made public. The report showed a group of terrorists had practiced shooting at my picture, SBY's picture, as a target. Let me show you.


This is a video recording of them practicing shooting. Two men are shooting with handguns. This is the target. And this is my picture, and they are aiming approximately at my face. This is the intelligence report, with video tape and pictures. It is not a slander, nor an issue. I received the report several moments ago. It is still related to the intelligence that acknowledged there is a plan to commit violence or actions against the law in relation to the election result.


There was also a plan to occupy the office of the General Elections Commission when the result is to announced. There was a statement that there would be a revolution if SBY wins. This is an intelligence report, not rumors, nor gossip. Other statements said they wished to turn Indonesia into [a country like] Iran. And the last statement said that no matter what, SBY should not and would not be inaugurated. You can interpret such threats, and the tens of other intelligence reports that are currently in the hands of our law enforcers.


This morning, just like I used to do, I wanted to come personally to the location [of the attack]. But the Chief of Police and others suggested I should wait, since the area was not yet secure. And danger could come at any time, especially with all of the threats I have shown you. Physical threats.


Surely, life and death is in God's hands. I should not worry and be restrained in doing my duty to the people, to this country. Since presidential security is borne by the Indonesian Armed Forces, I believe the armed forces have taken the precautions needed. To all intelligence reports, whether they are related to the bombing or not, I have instructed to all law enforcers to perform their duties correctly, objectively, decisively and lawfully.


If the threats are not related to today's bombing, they still need to be prevented, because anarchy, violence, vandalism and all other crimes are not the characteristics of a democratic and lawful country, obviously. For all of this, I, as the president, condemn the brutal act of terrorism. I also feel very sorry about the incident. Perhaps, or usually, during times like this, many of us are afraid to express our scorns or condemnations due to political considerations. On the other hand, I must say it loud and clear, as my mandate as the president.


Why do I have to feel very sorry? First of all, you all know that for the last five years, our economy has been growing rapidly. Business, tourism, food self-sufficiency, investment, trade, real sectors, have all been moving favorably regardless of the global crisis. Secondly, during the last week alone, our stock exchange index were improving drastically and our Rupiah was strengthening [against US dollar] as well. With the growing economy, the welfare of our people was developing also, including the execution of poverty and unemployment eradication programs, which I usually mention as the Pro-People Program.


All that has happened, my beloved brothers and sisters of Indonesia, is because in the last couple of years, our country has been truly safe and peaceful. In addition to the economic growth, our people throughout the country can work and live their lives in peace, free from fear. Meanwhile, the reputation of our country in the world is increasing as the world sees our country to be more safe, organized and peaceful. Our country has a blooming democracy and improved human rights implementation, a developing country that plays its role globally. Even, and this is a sad part, if the bombing did not occur, a legendary football club, Manchester United, would have played in Jakarta.

My fellow countrymen and women, with all of these brutal and thoughtless acts of terrorism, what we have built in the last five years with the labor and sweat of all Indonesians, once again must endure another shake and setback. Implications, once again, must be borne by all Indonesians, minus the bombers.


Therefore, truth and justice will be served. I swear, for the sake of my beloved Indonesians, that the government will execute proper and decisive punishments to the bombers, including the mastermind and organizers, and for other crimes that might or could happen on our country nowadays.


To the Indonesian Police Force, Indonesian Armed Forces and National Intelligence Agency, also the governors, district chiefs and mayors, I would like to ask you to remain on high-alert status and strive to prevent terrorism. More importantly, the law enforcers must truly seek, capture and prosecute the perpetrators, organizers, and masterminds behind this violence. Maybe some of them have committed crimes, assassination or murders and gotten away with these crimes, but this time we will not let them become Draculas and death-mongers in our country.


I realize that for the last five years, police have frequently prevented and stopped terrorism actions. Confiscating explosive materials, uncovering several terrorism networks, even though today's bombing has happened, a disaster that has torn the security and reputation of our country and nation. To prevent and exterminate terrorism, and other crimes properly, the intelligence [agency] must be very sharp. Prevention must be very effective. The police, the intelligence agency, the armed forces must unite in a complete synergy. Negligence and ignorance must be discarded. This is our mandate given by the people, for our country.


To all Indonesians, as you increase public alertness, stay at your work and live your lives normally. If something suspicious happens, call the police. Don't let terrorists and their masterminds lurk in your neighborhood. You can fall prey to their actions at any time if they are allowed to mastermind further terror in our country.


For the future, I encourage all Indonesians and all elements of the nation to unite and stand together in protecting the safety and peace of this country. No country and no religion condones terrorism, whatever the motives and reasons are. Don't hesitate, nor be afraid, in preventing and exterminating terrorism. Meanwhile, the terror we had today should never break our spirit and endeavor to build and to advance our country.


We must keep on fighting to better our economy, politics, democracy, human rights implementation, law enforcement, regional development, people's welfare and so on. The fact is that there is a major catastrophe due to today's act of terrorism. But we will make it right together, and we shall rise and move forward again. We, the nation, the country and the people, shall not falter nor cave in to terrorism. No violence, extremism, and other crimes shall continue to live on this country.


God Almighty, Allah SWT, shall protect and save our lives. With God's blessings, I assure you, my brothers and sisters of Indonesia, that I shall stand right up front to face the clear and present danger and to carry out the hard, yet noble, mandate you have given to me.


Thank you,

SBY-Boediono, Megabowo, JK-Win

Poll: SBY-Boediono, Megabowo, JK-Win

Chris Komari Says:


THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS, when it comes to SBY presidency and his 5 years accomplishments.

1. For the last 5 years, he has never balanced his budget (APBN), not even a single year.

2. For the last 5 years, Indonesia’s debts are getting bigger, where domestic debts are catching up and now bigger than foreign debts. Prior to 1997, Indonesia domestic debts are virtually Zero or, very small.

3. SBY claims to have paying off debts $7.6 billion with IMF, which is true. But in doing so, he created over $17 billion new domestic debts in BONDS or, known as SUN (Surat Utang Negara). He was not robbing Paul to Peter; he was like robbing ACHONG-ACHONG in Indonesia to pay Peter. He robbed much bigger in value about 2.5 times than the amount he paid off.

4. During the last 5 years, there is an average of Rp. 255 trillion Rupiah surplus in export every year. If we multiply that in 5 years, Indonesia shall have at least Rp. 1,275 trillion Rupiah reserved-funds or, Bank Devisa Negara. Recently, BI (Bank Indonesia) stated that Indonesia had only Rp. 501 trillion Rupiah sisa devisa negara. Where did the other Rp.774 trillion Rupiah go? This happened during SBY and Boediono watch.

5. For the last 5 years, SBY administration spent average of 70% the entire national budget or APBN to pay for the central government operation cost. The rest, which was only 30% was given or spent for the 33 provincial governments. Now, how much do you think the municipality government at CITY and DISTRICT level will receive these remaining funds? It must be very small. That is why the road in Bandung just like bule madrotter said: has been neglected because the lack of funds. I was in Bandung last April 2009. Di Bandung bukan hanya banyak lubang berjalan, tapi juga banyak lubang di jalan! That is one of President SBY’s legacies.

6. For the last 5 years, SBY did not lead. He just reacted and followed the market.

Look at how he reacted in response to rise of fuel price. He raised domestic fuel price concurrently in his anticipation to compensate his potentially monstrous budget deficit (APBN). Then when the fuel price went down, he re-acted it again to lower the domestic fuel price to calm down his people. So, his policy is again within the scope of following and re-acting the market. To me, that is not a true and great leader. A true leader will make a policy and execute the policy to LEAD the market, to influence the market and not to follow or re-act the market. For the last 5 years, that is how I saw President SBY did. He carefully took his time to react and followed the market.

The list goes on….

One good news for SBY though, the majority of Indonesia people do not care with the details. Secondly, there are continuing efforts by SBY and his Presidential team members to conceal these facts from public discussion. That is very helpful for SBY and enhances his chance to win the next Presidential election unless….

Re-electing SBY is at best maintaining status quo. I don’t know about you, but I want to see a change, significant change in Indonesia. For the last 5 years, SBY hasn’t yet delivered any significant change! What makes you think that he will do differently for the next 5 years?

Indonesia is the world's smokers : a grim fact

It's a grim fact that nearly half the world's smokers live in just three countries - China, India and Indonesia,, are taking up the habit at a very young age.

In China, one in ten boys aged 14 are smokers, and in Indonesia a third of students report taking their first puff before the age of 10.
In China, one in four boys aged 14 and under are smokers, while in Indonesia, a third of students report taking their first puff before the age of ten. [Reuters]
PHOTO

In China, one in four boys aged 14 and under are smokers, while in Indonesia, a third of students report taking their first puff before the age of ten. [Reuters]
AUDIO from Connect Asia
Dina Kania and Susan Lawrence discuss children smoking in Indonesia and China

Created: Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:54:34 GMT+0700

Joanna McCarthy

Last Updated: Thu, 23 Apr 2009 10:39:00 +1000

The World Health Organization says the tobacco industry has long targeted young people as so-called "replacement smokers" to take the place of those who quit or die - and as smoking rates decline in the West, it's been setting its sights on the developing world.

Susan Lawrence, head of China programs at the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids in Washington DC, says the high smoking rates among adults in China make it more attractive to children.

"The message that society sends them is that smoking is normal, that if you're in a public place, you're smoking," she said.

"And there's this sense that this...is what men do. Grown-up men smoke and boys who want to look grown-up, smoke. Women smoking rates in China are still very low, but it's really a male phenomenon for the most part."

Dina Kania, a youth advocate for Indonesia's National Commission for Child Protection in Jakarta, says the industry is aggressively targeting young people through sponsorship.

"We have been doing tobacco industry surveillance since 2008 and it is very obvious and evident that they are targeting young people," she said.

"They sponsor music events and we have monitored about 1,350 events sponsored by tobacco industry and most of those events were attended by children and teenagers."

And Susan Lawrence says while there are some advertising restriction in China, the promotions and sponsorships are clearly aimed at the country's youth.

"There are a lot of schools in rural areas which carry tobacco names, tobacco brand names," she said.

"They do promotional events in shopping malls - bringing on very popular break dancing routines or popular singers to entice crowds - and a lot of people in those crowds are kids."

Tax revenue

Dina Kania says Indonesia's government is hesitant to regulate the tobacco industry because of the tax revenue it provides - up to a tenth of all government revenue in the country.

"The myth of the profits made by the tobacco industry, of their contribution to our country, is very strong in our country," she said.

"So that's why the government won't buy our arguments, our tobacco control advocate arguments, because they believe the tobacco industry more than us."

But Susan Lawrence says in China tobacco tax is about 40 per cent of the retail price, compared to the international norm of about 65 per cent of the price.

She says subsidies on the cheaper cigarettes, aimed at the rural markets, are also allowing more children to afford to smoke - and increasing taxes and reducing subsidies would not hurt the poor.

"I think that they actually help the poor in all sorts of ways," she said.

"The poor are the most price sensitive group out there, so if you raise tobacco taxes, you're going to see an awful lot of those people either quitting smoking or sharply reducing their consumption of cigarettes. And that helps because not only does it help with household incomes...but it also helps reduce tobacco-related illness.

"And tobacco-related illness in China can send people rapidly into serious poverty because there's no social safety net, really, to cover medical, big medical prices."

Parental responsibility

The World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, adopted in 2003, sets out measures for countries to protect against the dangers of tobacco, including limits on taxation, government policies, advertising and distribution.

There are 164 parties to the convention, including China, who ratified the agreement in 2005, and Susan Lawrence says the Chinese needs to live up to its commitments.

"I just think it's awfully hard for parents, when the signals that society is sending is that smoking is normal and that in fact, in China, that to be a real man, you have to smoke," she said.

"I think government really needs to play a role in taking on those messages."

Indonesia has so far not signed up to the framework - the only South-East Asian WHO member not involved - but Dina Kania says without the government's help, the issue of smoking has grown too big for parents to deal with.

"As parents, of course, they do have the responsibility to prevent the children from smoking," she said.

"But we should bear in mind that smoking can no longer be perceived as a private issue. I mean, it has become an epidemic and there is a matter of public health and there's this giant tobacco industry that is selling and promotes its product aggressively to young people.

"Efforts done by parents, it's so insufficient."

America and Indonesia

Clinton heralds new era in Jakarta | The Australian

THE US had embarked on a new era of a "robust partnership with Indonesia", which would help Washington "reach out to the Muslim world", Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said in Jakarta last night.

After meeting Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda for about 90 minutes, Ms Clinton affirmed that Indonesia was a place where "Islam, democracy and modernity can not only co-exist but can thrive" and drove home the importance of the relationship to the Barack Obama administration.

She also announced that the two countries would be undertaking a review of strategies to encourage democracy in Burma, including working through the medium of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, of which Burma is a member and whose secretariat is in Jakarta.

Declaring that she brought "greetings from President Obama", Ms Clinton will also take home with her a message for her new boss from Mr Wirajuda: the Indonesian Government's fervent hope that the US leader will schedule a trip to Jakarta soon.

"President Obama has a very strong constituency here in Indonesia, and the Government and people of Indonesia would like very much to welcome President Obama on his trip to Indonesia," the Foreign Minister said.

"I will say we cannot wait too long and I wish that Hillary Clinton conveys this to President Obama."

The US President, who attended primary school for several years in the Indonesian capital, has indicated his enthusiasm for a trip to the country and last year told his counterpart, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, how he fondly recalled nasi goreng (fried rice) and bakso (meatball soup) from that time.

And an Obama donor recalled in December that Mr Obama had promised an early trip to Indonesia, the donor telling the respected Politico blog that the then presidential candidate had said his first words, on disembarking from Air Force One in Jakarta, would be the Indonesian for "I am back, dudes".

Ms Clinton's visit to the Indonesian capital, after Japan and ahead of stopovers in South Korea and China, also included a symbolically important meeting late yesterday with ASEAN Secretary-General Surin Pitsuwan.

Indonesia is hoping for a stronger US engagement with the grouping, whose constituent states boast a total population of 575 million. There were expectations the Obama administration could even sign up to ASEAN's 1976 Treaty of Amity and

Co-operation, allowing it to take part in the next East Asia Summit, a foreign ministry spokeswoman said.

Noting that the trip was her "first as Secretary of State but not my first to Indonesia", Ms Clinton said it was "wonderful to be back" and that she had "very high hopes for the United States-Indonesia relationship" -- a relationship she went on to describe as entering a new form of "comprehensive partnership".

As well as the fraught issue of Burma, on which she acknowledged neither "sanctions (nor) reaching out to" the military junta had had any effect, the pair discussed climate change, the global financial crisis, the middle east situation in general and Palestine in particular, as well as disarmament issues.

"I'm very committed to the relationship between the two countries," Ms Clinton said. "The Obama administration wants to reach out to the entire world. The United States and Asia have a common future -- the question is, how will we share it?"

She is due to meet Dr Yudhoyono at the presidential palace this morning to carry Mr Obama's greetings directly to the Indonesian leader, after accepting a declaration from the Foreign Minister that the country was "honoured and humbled" by her visit.

With national parliamentary elections less than two months away, and presidential polls to follow, Indonesia's political landscape is wide open, giving Ms Clinton's robust defence of its progress towards democracy an added edge.

The US-based Asia analyst Walter Lohman wrote yesterday that Indonesia was "a developing democracy under assault from a determined Islamist minority", noting that the Secretary of State's visit could help balance this tendency.