Alistair Cooke R.I.P. He broadcast a Letter From America for the BBC from the days of steam radio until just a month ago and died yesterday aged 94.
He was the forerunner of today's bloggers.
Supporting your local football club is part of growing up, the joining of a local community. As a teenager, I lived within walking distance of the Valley, Charlton's ground. One can never forget those rites of passage, so I hope my readers don't get bored with my occasional (regular?) mentions.
So, if you come from Darlington, support your local club by signing their petition.
Charlton are making headlines in the racing pages of the New York Post for running in the fifth race at Aqueduct (New York) recently was a horse named 'Addicks', Charlton's nickname. As Desmond Jones, a fellow Addick from South Pasadena, relates, 'It's encouraging that such a noble beast has been named after the club's South-East London heroes, and that such a cultural name should now form part of the New York racing fraternity's track parlance!'
On the other hand, Addicks is also apparently the name of a lake in Texas and, you may have guessed already, but the horse came last...
Also on the Charlton front, two new England squad members for tonight's friendly away to Sweden, JLloyd Samuel and Jermain Defoe were both teammates in the Charlton academy before being illegally poached by Aston Villa and West Ham United respectively.
As a personal touch, I'd like to say thanks to those of you who have already dropped me a line. Glad you like Jakartass so far.
Unfortunately it looks as if I've got to reformat my Drive C 'cos I've tried lots of other quick fixes. So, if I'm off line for a couple of days, I'll be back soon.
This is a link to the story about Indonesia's 'super-rich' which you don't have to pay Oz$2.20 for. Thanks Bart of the Indonesian Expat Newsletter. Get well soon. (I believe you even if your staff don't.)
Look back a couple of days and you'll find me wondering why the British Foreign Office advice is so out of date. On Sunday the Observer answered my question. Basically the "advice the Foreign Office issues has tremendous influence and yet it is inconsistent and unfair." Would you go to New York, Madrid or London? If your answer is no, then don't come to Indonesia.
My eldest son is 'Product Marketing Executive' for Asia and the Middle East for a travel agency. I look forward to seeing him later this year.
Searching through the archives of The Grauniad I came across an article by their South East Asian correspondent, John Aglionby. I've swapped e-mails with him but hadn't realized that he too is married to an Indonesian. This gives him an insight of inestimable value. I'll be linking to his articles to give my readership, infinitesimally smaller than his, greater depth and background. I hope he doesn't mind.
I couldn't make a company class this morning as Jakarta seized up with an election campaign rally by the Partai Keadilan (the Prosperous Justice Party) blocking every arterial road. Now where's the justice in that? Supposedly, they're a 'clean' party which is, otherwise, welcome news.
Finally, my friend has seen a Sumatran tiger. I'll explain more another day.
Oh, and a final finally, sorry about the untidiness of the links to the right. What with the current flakiness of my computer and my knowledge of putting this blog together it'll be a day or so before I've got everything straight.
Just when I was getting the hang of putting things up, I get hammered by a virus, the internal illogic of Microsoft, or my own incompetence.
Bear with me if there aren't any updates for a while, but it looks as if I've got to reformat or reconfigure my computer workings.
And I'll shoot the bugger who once stated that computers are a labour-saving device.
Meantimes, here are my thoughts from yesterday. And I promise I won't moan about Charlton losing again........
Ethnic Bias?
I'm job hunting, a dispiriting task at the best of times. And these aren't.
The Japanese International Cooperation Agency has an ad in today's (now 2 days ago ~ read the above) paper for a Program Officer. Ok, I don't have "at least 3 years in office management at international level .....experiences with technical cooperation or donor agency."
As for "capability of Japanese language is necessary (at least level 2)" ~ no way José.
But the clincher, which really smacks of ethnic bias, is that "Only short candidates will be contacted."
Now I don't think I'm tall; Indonesians are short.
So, godammit, at 6'5" I'm a victim of heightism.
HE Charles Humfrey, the new British Ambassador, will grace the occasion with his presence.
Yes, Minister, I've received an invitation to the latest British Chamber of Commerce monthly networking next Tuesday. This is nothing to do with the fact that I'm a warden for the British Embassy here. (A mere functionary, my role would be to assist with the evacuation of Brits in the event of mass civil disturbances. In common with the vast majority of my friends and colleagues, I'd stay put. The Americans, by tradition, would have a Boeing 747 on standby. "Hey mister, you America?")
Anyway, as I was saying, my presence is requested because I once tried to do some networking at a meeting to get sponsorship for a gig by Soft Works, the band of British jazzers who once graced Soft Machine. Of course, that came to nought. But I did enjoy the non-stop flow of beer.
The last ambassador, Richard Gozney, was universally popular here. He regularly appeared on TV discussion programmes speaking impeccable Indonesian; in fact he was given an award last year for his prowess.
The embassy does have a social club, the Goose and Durian, which carries a nice line in Ruddles and other imported beers, but I do wonder about the embassy's effectiveness in meeting the needs of Brits resident here and intending tourists. Have a look at the 'advice page' and check the date. Whilst you're on the site, see if you can find any current pages. I couldn't last night.
Cynical electorate is uninterested in political process, poll warns Just 27% of people trusted politicians, with 70% saying they trusted them "not very much" or "not at all". The above is taken from today’s paper, but not the Jakarta Post.
There is a general election campaign in full swing here with 24 participating parties. Yes, twenty four. I’ve yet to meet anyone who can tell me what the specific programmes are. I know there’s a Christian party because I was waiting for a taxi yesterday and their ‘parade’ of motorcyclists carrying party flags caused a minor traffic hold-up ~ minor that is by Jakarta standards.
There are a number of Muslim parties, but none of them are openly espousing the introduction of syariah law. As in Malaysia last week, the general population rejects extremism whilst expressing solidarity with Hamas.
The problem is that without corruption and intimidation being channelled through the Suharto family, now every one who can has their nose in the trough. Things are definitely worse than before the smiling general’s ‘abdication’. Reformasi has yet to make a real impact on everyday survival, except for the super-rich. ('This is Indonesia - Consuming Passion' - Australian Financial Review. February 27, 2004. Unfortunately you have to pay Oz$2.20 for the 'privilege' of reading this.)
So the electorate will go to the rallies of those parties which offer free T-shirts, food, an honorarium of Rp.50,000 and some dangdut (Arabic/Indian hybrid music) performances. They’re not interested in political speeches.
But then, who really is? Whoever you vote for, the government gets in.
A friend of mine has just rung me having spent a week in Singapore in what he described as a 3-star hotel. In fact it was a hospital where they inserted struts, rivets, cantilevers and assorted Meccano to repair his broken shoulder. And how come this was necessary? Obvious really. He fell off his motorbike in Blok M. Although it was night, he was alone; it was the rutting in the road that did for him.
He should have known better, but in case you dear reader don't, memorise the following. I'll be posting an interactive test once I can work out how to.
Indonesia's Highway Code
Newcomers to Jakarta are generally bewitched, bothered and bewildered by the seeming chaos on the roads. However, understanding that all drivers throughout Indonesia follow the same rules to varying degrees should make driving easier.
Here are a few simple guidelines to follow:
1. Four-wheeled vehicles usually have steering wheels on the right. This means that they generally drive on the left side of the road unless there is a white line painted on the road surface.
This functions like a monorail; keep your tires equidistant each side of it.
If you are a motorcyclist, then try to drive along it.
2. That bus stopped in the outer lane of a toll road (jalan tol) isn't parked and nor has it broken down. It is letting off passengers.
3. If a vehicle hits yours, then remember that the other driver is at fault.
Unless his vehicle is bigger.
4. You've heard that street crime is rampant, so do not stop for any pedestrians, especially those trying to use a pedestrian crossing.
5. If you do run over a pedestrian, then drive on. There are lots more where that one came from.
If you do decide to stop, don't. You could get lynched by the deceased pedestrian's friends, relatives and anybody else within the vicinity, i.e. a range of a kilometer or two.
6. There are frequent power cuts in Indonesia, so save electricity by not using your indicators.
However, if you are affluent, then Christmas is everyday so feel free to illuminate your car like a Christmas tree, especially in daylight hours. Also, use your emergency lights, the left and right indicators, to show you intend to drive straight ahead.
7. When approaching a road junction flash your headlights and drive straight on. That way, you'll reach the traffic jam (macet total) much quicker.
8. Do not stop at intersections. See 3 above.
Parking is easy. 1. If you can find a space on a sidewalk unoccupied by street stalls (warungs), trees, telephone or electricity poles, advertising boards, and without holes, use it. Oh, and drop us a line about its location.
2. Leaving that space and joining the traffic is easy. There is always someone with a whistle and the familiar street mating call of kiri (left), kanan (right), terus (straight). You can safely ignore these cries; most drivers do, but be generous with those Rp.1,000 notes. You will be helping to keep hoodlums off the streets. Or, in this case, on them.
3. A special rule operates for special functions such as weddings and the annual celebration at the H.Q. of the traffic police. You can use three of the four lanes for parking. No permit or notification is required, and local people can be hired to redirect you through the back streets and alleys (gangs).
Slightly different rules apply to motorcyclists. 1. This means of transport is convenient for the whole family. Your 3-year old can sit on your lap and your wife can ride side-saddle behind you whilst breastfeeding your newborn.
2. Any motorcycle, especially a cheap Chinese 90cc one, is versatile enough for commercial use. You, or your pillion passenger, can comfortably carry 50 live chickens and/or 3 televisions and/or plate glass for your shop window and/or 100kg of used plastic bottles. If you don't have a pillion passenger, place the load on the back seat, drape it over the rear wheel and tie it securely to the exhaust pipe with that colorful plastic twine.
3. Do not wear a crash helmet; otherwise you cannot smoke a clove cigarette (kretek) or use your handphone.
4. If you see someone leaving a bus or car stopped by the curb, do try to squeeze through the gap. It will save you a lot of time. In fact, any gap in the traffic is yours for the taking.
5. When available, use the sidewalks. (See Parking 1 above)
6. Carry an umbrella in case it rains.
7. Special rules apply during the rainy season.
a.. Use your umbrella to keep your kretek and/or handphone dry.
b. Drive as usual along the white lines with no lights on.
c. Park anywhere on the road under a footbridge.
If you cause a traffic jam, do not worry. At least those car drivers who cannot squeeze through the one remaining lane are dry.
8. There are no parking rules for motorcycles.
Rules for pedestrians. 1. Use your handphone so you do not have to give way to other pedestrians.
2. Never walk alone. It is best to walk three abreast, slowly. That way it is not you who has to step into the path of motorcyclists. (See Motorcyclists 4 above)
3. When waiting for a bus or taxi, form a crowd. There is safety in numbers.
4. Always cross the road near a pedestrian crossing or footbridge. Flapping your hand by your side is sufficient to warn on-coming cars and buses about your intention to walk in front them. They usually stop, although motorcycles don't. (See Motorcyclists 4 above)
5. Do not think of using the sidewalks. (See Parking 1 above.)
21st March 2004
Diaries are strange. Personal yet public. Did Pepys write his because he was forgetful or because he knew that he was living in interesting times? Is it a quest for immortality or a search for personality?
And why am I asking these questions?
This is my first attempt at a blog so I’ve a steep learning curve. My words can be found on the Net and I’ll feed those links in when I feel like it, but meantime I’d better work out what I’ve got to work out.
First off, I’m a Londoner now living in Jakarta ~ and we’re living in interesting times. There’s an election on which is adding to the traffic chaos but little to expectations of an improvement in living conditions.
I’ve been here for over 16 years and the Net keeps me in touch with what makes me a Londoner. Charlton Athletic are doing better than most of us could have wished for and Europe beckons for next season. Shame about the last minute goal at Liverpool and Robert’s dive for Newcastle yesterday, but ‘little’ Charlton, like AFC Wimbledon, are proving that football is both by and for the community. At least, in SE London, (if not SW).
And the Net keeps me in touch with folks who are great fans of the so-called ‘Canterbury Scene’ ~ Soft Machine, Caravan and the various offshoots through the past 35 years. (Is it really so long?) Music is also a personal diary so I’ll definitely be adding links as stuff passes my way. Some of it is sent by my good mate, a once and future expat here, Del. And some of it comes from Leonardo who’s hoping to get some gigs organized here.
Above all, I hope this diary gives a flavour of life here in Indonesia. There are some good online information resources for intending expats, for those interested in teaching English here, and for those who are what my mother termed lotus eaters.
I’m staying here but I’ll be happy if this all leads somewhere. Let me know at my temporary, for this blog anyway, e-mail address.
On an overcrowded and overheated Earth, humanity squabbles over scarce and rapidly diminishing resources, goaded by politicians in thrall to businessfolk who take orders from the gods created by their own delusions.
That is surely the only way sane folk can interpret deforestation, the rapid depletion of non-renewable minerals and energy resources, impoverished tenant farmers growing cash crops for export rather than food for their families, the manufacture and worldwide distribution of non-essential knick-knacks and the obsession with celebrities dressed in tawdry fashions.
This post is as a year round links resource for all those Indonesians and friends of Indonesia wishing to protect, preserve and enhance Planet Earth for future generations of all species.
Any omissions are a result of poor telecommunications rather than deliberate choices. Please email me with details of those Indonesian organisations you feel should be included, preferably those with an internet presence.
"Al Gore has proven very eloquently that you don't have to be president to change the world."
Sustainable Development
Yayasan IDEP Vision To help people understand our interconnectedness with nature and to support safe and sustainable lifestyles. Mission 1. To learn from existing community-based knowledge and use this knowledge to develop appropriate methods of preserving and strengthening local resources while strengthening community resilience to disaster. 2. To provide access to hands-on demonstrations, information and tools that address challenges faced by local communities. 3. To develop and utilize various types of educational media to capacity build and raise public awareness about community-based sustainable development and disaster management. 4. To participate in national and international networks, which support new and existing initiatives that focus on community-based sustainable development and disaster management. 5. To provide assistance to disaster affected people in need.
Yayasan Pelangi Indonesia Vision A self-sustaining, self-governing society that secures the health and sustainability of the natural resources and the environment while pursuing socio-economic well-being that is equitable and democratic. Mission A global environmental think tank to form a sociaty that self-governs and secures the quality of its natural resources and environment while pursuing socio-economic well-being that is equitable and democratic. Goals An independent research institute with national and international reputation that becomes a reference and a pioneer through its studies and advocacy on strategic issues.
Eco-Web Green Pages Links to some 44 businesses involved in alternative and appropriate technology issues such as: * Environmental Information * Waste Water Treatment * Water Supply & Purification * Air Pollution Control * Waste Management * Recycling * Soil Preservation * Noise Protection * Power Generation * Energy Efficiency.
Friends of the Environment Fund An Indonesian not-for-profit and independent organization aiming at implementing sustainable development concept and assisting various conservation efforts.
National NGO's
WALHI -Friends of the Earth-Indonesia Human beings have always been the focus of WALHI’s fighting in defending the environment. Local communities and indigenous peoples often become victims of unjust treatment under the name of economic development.
During 25 years of struggle, WALHI and the communities have: 1. helped grow awareness of environmental issues and promote the sovereignty of local communities and indigenous peoples in managing natural resources. 2. become the vanguard of the environmental movement in the country and become a significant part of the global environmental movement. 3. advocated problems of marginalized people to the attention of the lawmakers, who in turn take grassroots problem into consideration when deliberating laws. 4. supported the struggle of grassroots communities of maintaining their rights to a healthy environment and to self-management of the natural resources. 5. become the major source of information about environmental problems in Indonesia for the press, industry and lawmakers.
WWF Indonesia The Indonesian chapter of the WWF For Nature, an independent conservation organization. Includes e-card, merchandise, news and online activity kit.
ProFauna Indonesia is the only animal protection organisation in Indonesia which has a membership system, with members making a significant contribution to voluntary activities and enabling the organisation, despite limited staff, to achieve a great deal more than otherwise would be possible.
The majority of ProFauna's work involves campaigning for the protection of wild animals, investigation into the trade in wild-caught animals and animal rescue, all using non-violent means. ProFauna Indonesia has conducted numerous investigations into the trade and exploitation of Indonesian wild animals.
KEHATI Foundation Grant making foundation for programs in the area of Indonesian biodiversity conservation.
Rufford Small Grants for Nature Conservation (RSGs) were set up in 1999 by The Rufford Maurice Laing Foundation. They are available to individuals and small groups and aimed at small conservation programmes and pilot projects. We generally look for projects of about a year’s duration. Applications from non-first world countries are strongly encouraged. On this page of the website you can track the progress of supported projects from Indonesia, and download application documents for new projects. Forestry Practices
Global Forest Watch has downloadable reports and maps which examine the destruction and systematic plunder of Asia's greatest rainforests under former Indonesian president Suharto. During his 32-year rule, Indonesia lost at least 40 million hectares of forests, equivalent to the combined size of Germany and the Netherlands. CIFOR - Center for International Forestry Research Concentrates on research and publications about tropical forestry and sociology in developing nations. Research abstracts, publications, job opportunities and software downloads.
Asia Forest Voice Some of various partners are including: YLL (Yayasan Leuser Lestari), an NGO based in Medan, North Sumatra. YLL focuses on monitoring forest practices in Aceh and North Sumatra. Hakiki, an NGO based in Pekanbaru, Riau. Active in providing data and information related to the two main pulp and paper mills that operate in Riau province and timber smuggling to Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. Ulayat, an NGO based in Bengkulu. Ulayat leads campaigns to combat illegal logging in Bukit Barisan Selatan NP, Bengkulu and Kerinci Seblat NP, Bengkulu. ARuPA, an NGO based in Jogjakarta specialising in research and investigation of the state own forest companies performance and promoting an alternative regulation on community-based forest management. YASCITA, an NGO based in Kendari, South East Sulawesi, active in monitoring the illegal logging activities and promoting the alternative regulation on community-logging. YASCITA also set up the alternative media such as environmental radio and Kendari TV. Other partners are including AMAN (national forum for communities), Forest Watch Indonesia, PASe (Aceh), Sylvagama (Central Java), LPMA (South Kalimantan), BLPM Lakpesdam (South Sulawesi), Jurnal Celebes (South Sulawesi), Yalhimo, Triton, Perdu (West Papua), and many others.
Telapak is an independent environmental non-profit group based in Bogor, Indonesia. Telapak and their partners acrossing Indonesia archipelagos has been very serious involved in forest crime monitoring and continued by FLEGT VPA monitoring process.
Eyes on the Forest is a coalition of three local environmental organizations in Riau, Sumatra : WWF Indonesia's Tesso Nilo Programme, Jikalahari (Forest Rescue Network Riau) and Walhi Riau (Friends of the Earth-Indonesia). Eyes on the Forest aims to become a clearinghouse for information on forest conservation in Riau, Sumatra and to serve as a tool for local, national, and international NGOs, companies, governments and any other stakeholders who are willingto take action to conserve forests and protect the rights of the local people who rely on them.
Berau Forest Management Project A pilot project created in 1996 by European Union and the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry to develop a replicable example of sustainable forest management in Indonesia.
WARSI - Conservation Information Forum Network made up of twelve NGOs from four provinces in Sumatra whose focus is biodiversity conservation and community development.
Newsletters EcoEarth Environmental News Network National Network Forum of the Indonesian Anti-Nuclear Society Nana Suhartana Jl. Griyan Lama 20, Baturan Solo 57171 email Get a sticker like this here.
Newcomers to Jakarta are generally bewitched, bothered and bewildered by the seeming chaos on the roads. However, understanding that all drivers throughout Indonesia follow the same rules to varying degrees should make driving easier.
A few simple guidelines
1. Four-wheeled vehicles usually have steering wheels on the right. This means that they generally drive on the left side of the road unless there is a white line painted on the road surface. This functions like a monorail; keep your tires equidistant each side of it.
If you are a motorcyclist, then try to drive along it.
2. That bus stopped in the outer lane of a toll road (jalan tol) isn't parked and nor has it broken down. It is letting off passengers.
3. If a vehicle hits yours, then remember that the other driver is at fault.
Unless his vehicle is bigger.
4. You've heard that street crime is rampant, so do not stop for any pedestrians, especially those trying to use a pedestrian crossing.
5. If you do run over a pedestrian, then drive on. There are lots more where that one came from.
If you do decide to stop, don't. You could get lynched by the deceased pedestrian's friends, relatives and anybody else within the vicinity, i.e. a range of a kilometer or two.
6. There are frequent power cuts in Indonesia, so save electricity by not using your indicators.
If you are affluent, then Christmas is everyday so feel free to illuminate your car like a Christmas tree, especially in daylight hours. Also, use your emergency lights, the left and right indicators, to show you intend to drive straight ahead.
7. When approaching a road junction flash your headlights and drive straight on. That way, you'll reach the traffic jam (macet total) much quicker.
8. Do not stop at intersections. (See 3 above.)
Parking is easy
1. If you can find a space on a sidewalk unoccupied by street stalls (warungs), trees, telephone or electricity poles, advertising boards, and without holes, use it. Oh, and drop us a line about its location.
2. Leaving that space and joining the traffic is easy. There is always someone with a whistle and the familiar street mating call of kiri (left), kanan (right), terus (straight on). You can safely ignore these cries, most drivers do, but be generous with those Rp.1000 notes. You will be helping to keep hoodlums off the streets. Or, in this case, on them.
3. A special rule operates for special functions such as weddings and the annual celebration at the H.Q. of the traffic police. You can use three of the four lanes for parking. No permit or notification is required, and local people can be hired to redirect you through the back streets and alleys (gangs).
Rules for motorcyclists
1. This means of transport is convenient for the whole family. Your 3-year old can sit on your lap and your wife can ride side-saddle behind you whilst breastfeeding your newborn.
2. Any motorcycle, especially a cheap Chinese 90cc one, is versatile enough for commercial use. You, or your pillion passenger, can comfortably carry 50 live chickens and/or 3 televisions and/or plate glass for your shop window and/or 100kg of used plastic bottles. If you don't have a pillion passenger, place the load on the back seat, drape it over the rear wheel and tie it securely to the exhaust pipe with that colourful plastic twine.
3. Do not wear a crash helmet; otherwise you cannot smoke a clove cigarette (kretek) or use your handphone.
4. If you see someone leaving a bus or car stopped by the curb, do try to squeeze through the gap. It will save you a lot of time. In fact, any gap in the traffic is yours for the taking.
5. When available, use the sidewalks. (See Parking 1 above)
6. Carry an umbrella in case it rains.
7. Special rules apply during the rainy season. a. Use your umbrella to keep your kretek and/or handphone dry. b. Drive as usual along the white lines with no lights on. c. Park anywhere on the road under a footbridge. If you cause a traffic jam, do not worry. At least those car drivers who cannot squeeze through the one remaining lane are dry.
8. There are no parking rules for motorcycles.
Rules for pedestrians
1. Use your handphone so you do not have to notice and give way to other pedestrians.
2. Never walk alone. It is best to walk three abreast, slowly. That way it is not you who has to step into the path of motorcyclists. (See Motorcyclists 4 above)
3. When waiting for a bus or taxi, form a crowd. There is safety in numbers.
4. Always cross the road near a pedestrian crossing or footbridge. Flapping your hand by your side is sufficient to warn on-coming cars and buses about your intention to walk in front them. They usually stop, although motorcycles don't. (See Motorcyclists 4 above)
5. Do not think of using the sidewalks. (See Parking 1 above.)
Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement
The Government of Indonesia (GoI) and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) confirm their commitment to a peaceful, comprehensive and sustainable solution to the conflict in Aceh with dignity for all.
The parties commit themselves to creating conditions within which the government of the Acehnese people can be manifested through a fair and democratic process within the unitary state and constitution of the Republic of Indonesia.
The parties are deeply convinced that only the peaceful settlement of the conflict will enable the rebuilding of Aceh after the tsunami disaster on 26 December 2004 to progress and succeed.
The parties to the conflict commit themselves to building mutual confidence and trust.
This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) details the agreement and the principles that will guide the transformation process.
To this end the GoI and GAM have agreed on the following:
1 Governing of Aceh
1.1 Law on the Governing of Aceh
1.1.1 A new Law on the Governing of Aceh will be promulgated and will enter into force as soon as possible and not later than 31 March 2006.
1.1.2 The new Law on the Governing of Aceh will be based on the following principles:
a) Aceh will exercise authority within all sectors of public affairs, which will be administered in conjunction with its civil and judicial administration, except in the fields of foreign affairs, external defence, national security, monetary and fiscal matters, justice and freedom of religion, the policies of which belong to the Government of the Republic of Indonesia in conformity with the Constitution.
b) International agreements entered into by the Government of Indonesia which relate to matters of special interest to Aceh will be entered into in consultation with and with the consent of the legislature of Aceh.
c) Decisions with regard to Aceh by the legislature of the Republic of Indonesia will be taken in consultation with and with the consent of the legislature of Aceh.
d) Administrative measures undertaken by the Government of Indonesia with regard to Aceh will be implemented in consultation with and with the consent of the head of the Aceh administration.
1.1.3 The name of Aceh and the titles of senior elected officials will be determined by the legislature of Aceh after the next elections.
1.1.4 The borders of Aceh correspond to the borders as of 1 July 1956.
1.1.5 Aceh has the right to use regional symbols including a flag, a crest and a hymn.
1.1.6 Kanun Aceh will be re-established for Aceh respecting the historical traditions and customs of the people of Aceh and reflecting contemporary legal requirements of Aceh.
1.1.7 The institution of Wali Nanggroe with all its ceremonial attributes and entitlements will be established.
1.2 Political participation
1.2.1 As soon as possible and not later than one year from the signing of the MoU, GoI agrees to and will facilitate the establishment of Aceh-based political parties that meet national criteria. Understanding the aspirations of Acehnese people for local poitical parties, GoI will create, within one year or at the latest 18 months from the signing of this MoU, the political and legal conditions for the establishment of local political parties in Aceh in consultation with Parliament. The timely implementation of this MoU will contribute positively to this end.
1.2.2 Upon the signature of the MoU, the people of Aceh will have the right to nominate candidates for the positions of all elected officials to contest the elections in Aceh in April 2006 and thereafter.
1.2.3 Free and fair local elections will be organized under the new Law on the Governing of Aceh to elect the head of the Aceh administrtion and other elected officials in April 2006 as well as the legislature of Aceh in 2009.
1.2.4 Until 2009 the legislature of Aceh will not be entitled to enact any laws without the consent of the head of the Aceh administration.
1.2.5 All Acehnese residents will be issued new conventional identity cards prior to the elections of April 2006.
1.2.6 Full participation of all Acehnese people in local and national elections will be guaranteed in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia.
1.2.7 Outside monitors will be invited to monitor the elections in Aceh. Local elections may be undertaken with outside technical assistance.
1.2.8 There will be full transparency in campaign funds.
1.3 Economy
1.3.1 Aceh has the right to raise funds with external loans. Aceh has the right to set interest rates beyond that set by the Central Bank of the Republic of Indonesia.
1.3.2 Aceh has the right to set and raise taxes to fund official internal activities. Aceh has the right to conduct trade and business internally and internationally and to seek foreign direct investment and tourism to Aceh.
1.3.3 Aceh will have jurisdiction over living natural resources in the territorial sea surrounding Aceh.
1.3.4 Aceh is entitled to retain seventy (70) per cent of the revenues from all current and future hydrocarbon deposits and other natural resources in the territory of Aceh as well as in the territorial sea surrounding Aceh.
1.3.5 Aceh conducts the development and administration of all seaports and airports within the territory of Aceh.
1.3.6 Aceh will enjoy free trade with all other parts of the Republic of Indonesia unhindered by taxes, tariffs or other restrictions.
1.3.7 Aceh will enjoy direct and unhindered access to foreign countries, by sea and air.
1.3.8 GoI commits to the transparency of the collection and allocation of revenues between the Central Government and Aceh by agreeing to outside auditors to verify this activity and to communicate the results to the head of the Aceh administration.
1.3.9 GAM will nominate representatives to participate fully at all levels in the commission established to conduct the post-tsunami reconstruction (BRR).
1.4 Rule of law
1.4.1 The separation of powers between the legislature, the executive and the judiciary will be recognised.
1.4.2 The legislature of Aceh will redraft the legal code for Aceh on the basis of the universal principles of human rights as provided for in the United Nations International Covenants on Civil and Political Rights and on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
1.4.3 An independent and impartial court system, including a court of appeals, will be established for Aceh within the judicial system of the Republic of Indonesia.
1.4.4 The appointment of the Chief of the organic police forces and the prosecutors shall be approved by the head of the Aceh administration. The recruitment and training of organic police forces and prosecutors will take place in consultation with and with the consent of the head of the Aceh administration in complicance with the applicable national standards.
1.4.5 All civilian crimes committed by military personnel in Aceh will be tried in civil courts in Aceh.
2 Human rights
2.1 GoI will adhere to the United Nations International Covenants on Civil and Political Rights and on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
2.2 A Human Rights Court will be established for Aceh.
2.3 A Commission for Truth and Reconciliation will be established for Aceh by the Indonesian Commission of Truth and Reconciliation with the task of formulating and determining reconciliation measures.
3 Amnesty
3.1.1 GoI will, in accordance with constitutional procedures, grant amnesty to all persons who have participated in GAM activities as soon as posible and not later than within 15 days of the signature of the MoU.
3.1.2 Political prisoners and detainees held due to the conflict will be released unconditionally as soon as possible and not later than within 15 days of the signature of this MoU.
3.1.3 The Head of the Monitoring Mission will decide on disputed cases based on advice from the legal advisor of the Monitoring Mission.
3.1.4 Use of weapons by GAM personnel after the signature of this MoU will be regarded as a violation of the MoU and will disqualify the person from amnesty.
3.2 Reintegration into society
3.2.1 As citizens of the Republic of Indonesia, all persons having been granted amnesty or released from prison or detention will have all political, economic and social rights as well as the right to participate freely in the poitical process both in Aceh and on the national level.
3.2.2 Persons who during the conflict have renounced their citizenship of the Republic of Indonesia will have the right to regain it.
3.2.3 GoI and the authorities of Aceh will take measures to assist persons who have participated in GAM activities to facilitate their reintegration into the civil society.
These measures include economic facilitation to former combatants, pardoned political prisoners and affected civilians. A Reintegration Fund under the administration of the authorities of Aceh will be established.
3.2.4 GoI will allocate funds for the rehabilitation of public and private property destroyed or damaged as a consequence of the conflict to be administered by the authorities of Aceh.
3.2.5 GoI will allocate suitable farming land as well as funds to the authorities of Aceh for the purpose of facilitating the reintegration to society of the former combatants and the compensation for political prisoners and affected civilians. The authorities of Aceh will use the land and funds as follows:
a) All former combatants will receive an allocation of suitable farming land, employment or, in the case of incapacity to work, adequate social security from the authorities of Aceh.
b) All pardoned political prisoners will receive an allocation of suitable farming land, employment or, in the case of incapacity to work, adequate social security from the authorities of Aceh.
c) All civilians who have suffered a demonstrable loss due to the conflict will receive an allocation of suitable farming land, employment or, in the case of incapacity to work, adequate social security from the authorities of Aceh.
3.2.6 The authorities of Aceh and GoI will establish a joint Claims Settlement Commission to deal with unmet claims.
3.2.7 GAM combatants will have the right to seek employment in the organic police and organic military forces in Aceh without discrimination and in conformity with national standards.
4 Security arrangements
4.1 All acts of violence between the parties will end latest at the time of the signing of this MoU.
4.2 GAM undertakes to demobilise all of its [number] military troops. GAM members will not wear uniforms or display military insignia or symbols after the signing of this MoU.
4.3 GAM undertakes the decommissioning of all arms, ammunition and explosives held by the participants in GAM activities with the assistance of the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM). GAM commits to hand over [number] arms.
4.4 The decommissioning of GAM armaments will begin on 15 September 2005 and will be executed in four stages and concluded by 31 December 2005.
4.5 GoI will withdraw all elements of non-organic military and non-organic police forces from Aceh.
4.6 The relocation of non-organic military and non-organic police forces will begin on 15 September 2005 and will be executed in four stages in parallel with the GAM decommissioning immediately after each stage has been verified by the AMM, and concluded by 31 December 2005.
4.7 The number of organic military forces to remain in Aceh after the relocation is [number]. The number of organic police forces to remain in Aceh after the relocation is [number].
4.8 There will be no major movements of military forces after the signing of this MoU.
All movements more than a platoon size will require prior notification to the Head of the Monitoring Mission.
4.9 GoI undertakes the decommissioning of all illegal arms, ammunition and explosives held by any possible illegal groups and parties.
4.10 Organic police forces will be responsible for upholding internal law and order in Aceh.
4.11 Military forces will be responsible for upholding external defence of Aceh. In normal peacetime circumstances, only organic military forces will be present in Aceh.
4.12 Members of the Aceh organic police force will receive special training in Aceh and overseas with emphasis on respect for human rights.
5 Establishment of the Aceh Monitoring Mission
5.1 An Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) will be established by the European Union and ASEAN contributing countries with the mandate to monitor the implementation of the commitments taken by the parties in this Memorandum of Understanding.
5.2 The tasks of the AMM are to:
a) monitor the demobilisation of GAM and decommissioning of its armaments,
b) monitor the relocation of non-organic military forces and non-organic police troops.
c) monitor the reintegration of active GAM members,
d) monitor the human rights situation and provide assistance in this field,
e) monitor theprocess of legislation change
f) rule on disputed amnesty cases,
g) investigate and rule on complaints and alleged violations of the MoU,
h) establish and maintain liason and good cooperation with the parties
5.3 A Status of Mission Agreement (SoMA) between GoI and the European Union will be signed simultaneously with this MoU. The SoMA defines the status, privileges and immunities of the AMM and its members. ASEAN contributing countries which have been invited by GoI will confirm in writing their acceptance of and compliance with the SoMA.
5.4 GoI will give all its support for the carrying out of the mandate of the AMM. To this end, GoI will write a letter to the European Union and ASEAN contributing countries expressing its commitment and support to the AMM.
5.5 GAM will give all its support for the carrying out of the mandate of the AMM. To this end, GAM will write a letter to the European Union and ASEAN contributing countries expressing its commitment and support to the AMM.
5.6 The parties commit themselves to provide AMM with secure, safe and stable working conditions and pledge their full cooperation with the AMM.
5.7 Monitors will have unrestricted freedom of movement in Aceh. Only those tasks which are within the provisions of the MoU will be accepted by the AMM.Parties do not have a veto over the actions or control of the AMM operations.
5.8 GoI is responsible for the security of all AMM personnel in Indonesia. The mission personnel do not carry arms. The Head of Monitoring Mission may however decide on an exceptional basis that a patrol will not be escorted by GoI security forces. In that case, GoI will be informed and the GoI will not assume responsibility for the security of this patrol.
5.9 GoI will provide weapons collection points and support mobile weapons collection teams in collaboration with the GAM.
5.10 Immediate destruction will be carried out after the collection of weapons and ammunitions. This process will be fully documented and publicised as appropriate.
5.11 AMM reports to the Head of Monitoring Mission who will provide regular reports to the parties and to others as required, as well as to a designated person or office in the European Union and ASEAN contributing countries.
5.12 Upon signature of the MoU each party will appoint a senior representative to deal with all matters related to the implementation of this MoU with the Head of Monitoring Mission.
5.13 The parties commit themselves to a notification responsibility procedure to the AMM, including military and reconstruction issues.
5.14 GoI will authorise appropriate measures regarding emergency medical service and hospitalisation for AMM personnel.
5.15 In order to facilitate transparency, GoI will allow full access for the representatives of national and international media to Aceh.
6 Dispute settlement
6.1 In the event of disputes regarding the implementation of this MoU, these will be resolved promptly as follows:
a) As a rule, eventual disputes concerning the implementation of this MoU will be resolved by the Head of Monitoring Mission, in dialogue with the parties, with all parties providing required information immediately. The Head of Monitoring Mission will make a ruling which will be binding on the parties.
b) If the Head of Monitoring Mission concludes that a dispute cannot be resolved by the means described above, the dispute will be discussed together by the Head of Monitoring Mission with the senior representative of each party. Following this, the Head of Monitoring Mission will make a ruling which will be binding on the parties.
c) In cases where disputes cannot be reesolved by either of the means described above, the Head of Monitoring Mission will report directly to the Coordinating Minister for Political, Law and Security Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, the political leadership of GAM and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Crisis Management Initiative, with the EU Political and Security Committee informed. After consultation with the parties, theChairman of the Board of Directors of the Crisis Management Initiative will make a ruling which will be binding on the parties.
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GoI and GAM will not undertake any action inconsistent with the letter or spirit of this Memorandum of Understanding.
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Signed in triplicate in Helsinki, Finland on this (15th) day of August in the year 2005.
For the Government of the Republic of Indonesia
For the Free Aceh Movement
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[Note: Joyo Indonesia News Exclusive: This is the first time that the text of the Final Agreement/MOU has been distributed. Joyo has been asked by a highly reliable source to disseminate.]
****** This is the full text of the MoU to be signed later today in Helsinki. Feel free to comment and disseminate.
Charby
