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October 2001

Jahad in Ambon

US reports says Indonesian government can't control religious stife (31/10/01) #1797
ABC 31/10/01 9:21:09
An American State Department report on religious freedom says the Indonesian government is incapable of controlling religious extremism or preventing violence by radical groups. The International Religious Freedom Report 2001 cites killings and forced conversions to Islam in the Maluku islands, attacks on churches and repeated assaults on entertainment centres as examples of religious intolerance in what is officially a secular state.

Maluku and North Maluku still have major problems: Governor (31/10/01) #1794
The Jakarta Post, 30 Oct. 2001
JAKARTA (JP): Although a fragile calm has descended on both Maluku and North Maluku provinces, the strife-torn islands are facing two major problems, Maluku Governor Saleh Latuconsina told the media on Tuesday. Speaking on the sidelines of a book launching on Maluku and a seminar titled "Merajut Damai in Maluku, Stop Kekerasan" (Sowing Peace in Maluku, Stop Violence) here on Tuesday, Latuconsina said the problems were related to the segregation of Muslims andChristian communities, which had resulted from over two years of bloody conflicts that have claimed at least 8,000 lives.

Afghan Conflict Triggers Backlash Against Christian Minorities (31/10/01) #1789
CNSNews.com, October 24, 2001
By Patrick Goodenough, Pacific Rim Bureau Chief
Pacific Rim Bureau (CNSNews.com) - Christians living in Islamic lands are paying a price for the U.S.-led war on terrorism in Afghanistan, as angry Muslims retaliate for what they see as an attack on their religion by the Christian West, according to a leading charity which monitors religious persecution. In recent weeks, Christians in Nigeria, Indonesia, Pakistan, Malaysia and the Palestinian self-rule areas have come under attack from Muslims, in incidents often believed to be linked to the events in Afghanistan, the Barnabas Fund reports.

'Vulnerable'Indonesia Leader Warns Country Could Fall Apart (31/10/01) #1788
CNSNews.com, October 29, 2001
By Patrick Goodenough, CNSNews.com Pacific Rim Bureau Chief
Pacific Rim Bureau (CNSNews.com) - Indonesia, torn by ethnic and religious splits, could go the way of the Balkans, President Megawati Sukarnoputri has warned, and she appealed to various elements of society to stop undermining the country's fragile unity. "If we allow this to continue, you can be sure that we as a nation will soon perish," she said on Sunday at a function in Jakarta commemorating the day in 1928 when young Indonesians vowed to build a single, independent nation in the Dutch-ruled archipelago.

Megawati: Indonesia May Explode (31/10/01) #1787
ASSOCIATED PRESS, Monday October 29 11:45 AM ET
By SLOBODAN LEKIC, Associated Press Writer
JAKARTA, Indonesia - Nearing the 100-day mark as president of Indonesia, Megawati Sukarnoputri warned Sunday that the world's fourth most populous nation is in danger of breaking up and becoming the ``Balkans of the East.'' ``If (violence) continues, we will split into lots of small races, into lots of small countries all of which will be weak in the face of outside forces,'' Megawati said at a ceremony commemorating the birth of Indonesia's nationalist movement in 1928.

Sacked security chief launches youth group 'to save nation' (31/10/01) #1786
South China Morning Post,
Tuesday, October 30, 2001
VAUDINE ENGLAND in Jakarta
Former armed forces and security chief General Wiranto has founded a moral movement he says aims to help save the nation. Called the Red and White Youth Defenders - after the colours of the national flag - supporters insist the new group is not another paramilitary organisation but a move to promote human rights, national unity and moral integrity. General Wiranto was in charge of the military when it supported militias that killed and tortured East Timorese and destroyed much of the province after it voted for independence in 1999.

Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 47 (30/10/01) #1785
19 - 26 October 2001
MALUKU * The other significant event in Ambon was the visit of Djafar Umar Thalib, the leader of the Laskar Jihad who arrived last Sunday (21 Oct.). He reportedly held meetings with various groups and delivered a speech at the Al Fatah Mosque on Tuesday, expressing that George Bush had declared war against Muslims, that Colin Powell had said that the next target would be Indonesia due to the presence of Laskar Jihad, that Muslims have been instructed by Allah to protect this country and fight to implement Syariah law. He regretted that some Muslims were talking about peace and reconciliation and stressed that the war would not be over until Muslims could celebrate Idul Fitr in Kudamati, Passo, Saparua and other Christian places. He called on Muslims to consolidate and unite to introduce Syariah law in Maluku. Umar Thalib's presence in Ambon raised fears of increased tension between the communities. He is scheduled to hold another meeting with Muslim leaders on Saturday, 27 October.
NORTH MALUKU * North Maluku has been relatively calm during the week. The main humanitarian activities were the movement of returnees, mainly from camp locations in Ternate and Tobelo to their original homes.
CENTRAL SULAWESI * On 19 October, the police in Banggai district seized a fishing boat in Balantak Island, Banggai district. The boat was loaded with ammunition and firearms. On 21 October, the Central Sulawesi Police said that a truck loaded with "Laskar Jihad" members from Ambon had arrived in Poso. The police had found this out after arresting an Ambonese police officer who accompanied the truck and who admitted having accompanied similar groups to Poso three times already. Each trip to Poso consisted of five trucks loaded with around 100 persons.

Megawati warns of possible disintegration of Indonesia (30/10/01) #1779
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, Sunday October 28, 2001 3:58 PM
JAKARTA, Oct 28 (AFP) - President Megawati Sukarnoputri warned Indonesia could "become the Balkans of the eastern hemisphere" if her countrymen did not work harder at keeping their nation together, the state Antara news agency reported. Megawati said that unless conflicts between ethnic and religious groups and villages were halted, the nation of more than 210 million people spread over some 17,000 islands faced breaking up into a series of tiny powerless states.

Megawati says Indonesia could become another Balkans (30/10/01) #1778
REUTERS, Monday October 29, 2001 9:59 AM
JAKARTA (Reuters) - President Megawati Sukarnoputri has warned Indonesia could disintegrate and become the Balkans of the East if religious and communal conflict was not brought under control, the official Antara news agency reported. In a bleak speech marking a national youth day on Sunday, Megawati bemoaned the breakdown in law and order across the country, the extent of graft and the prospect some foreign investors wanted to give up on Indonesia.

'Doorstop' Megawati proves sceptics correct 100 days on (30/10/01) #1777
South China Morning Post, Monday, October 29, 2001
VAUDINE ENGLAND in Jakarta
The honeymoon is over for President Megawati Sukarnoputri. Just over 100 days into her rule, frustration, impatience and boredom are the overwhelming reactions to what many observers consider an underwhelming performance by Indonesia's fourth president in as many years. Analysts say anyone who had high expectations of the woman whose childhood was spent in the palace of her father Sukarno's founding presidency have only themselves to blame.

Unofficial summary of local press articles 24-25 October 2001 (29/10/01) #1776
Siwalima, 24 October 2001, p1

* Ja'far calls for war in Ambon *
The commander of Laskar Jihad Ja'far Umar Thalib called for a war against the followers of Southeast Maluku Republic (RMS) who are mostly are Christians during his tablig akbar (sermon) at the Al-Fatah mosque yesterday (23/10). He also regrets that the Government of Indonesia have protected the independence movement such as the RMS, and never paid attention to Muslims. In his speech, Ja'far also accused the Governor of Maluku, Saleh Latuconsina of breaking up the unity of Muslims in Maluku by establishing a new organization, the Maluku Muslims Coordination Agency (BIMM) aside from MUI Maluku.

Indonesia. International Religious Freedom Report (29/10/01) #1766
Released by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
October 2001
U.S. Department of State
According to multiple sources, including direct testimony from victims and witnesses in early 2001, thousands of Christians underwent forced conversions in the Moluccas from December 1999 to January 2001. There also were several hundred Muslims forced to convert to Christianity in North Maluku and Maluku Provinces in early to mid-2000. President Wahid conceded in late December that hundreds of Christians on Keswui and Teor Islands in Maluku converted to Islam in November and December 2000 to save their lives. By February 2001, over 700 converts had been able to leave the 2 islands. There also have been credible reports of forced conversions occurring in other parts of Ambon/Maluku and North Maluku (see Section II). Estimates range from over 3,500 to 8,000 cases. Many of these conversions, especially those in North Maluku, occurred in early 2000; however, confirmation of the conversions was not available until late 2000 and early 2001. For example, on Keswui and Teor Islands inMaluku Province, hundreds of Christians converted to Islam in November and December 2000 under threat of execution. While most documented cases involve Christians who converted to Islam, there have been reports of Muslims who were forced to convert to Christianity in Halmahera, North/Maluku (Lata Lata, Bacan). There is credible evidence that 200 to 800 Muslims were forced to convert to Christianity in the Moluccas. Many of these conversions occurred during the period covered by this report.

Past Catches Up to Southeast Asia (29/10/01) #1765
Amid Search for Terrorist Groups
The Wall Street Journal
, Friday, October 26, 2001
By HELENE COOPER, Staff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
WASHINGTON -- Three years ago, 1,500 young Indonesian men thought to be involved in their country's fight to keep East Timor went to Afghanistan to train with Taliban fighters, U.S. officials say; they also believe all 1,500 returned home. But today, U.S. officials say they only know the whereabouts of 1,000 of them. An Indonesian government official wouldn't confirm or deny that any of its citizens sought training in Afghanistan. Instead, he said Thursday that "intelligence cooperation between Indonesia and the U.S. has taken place to address" concerns about any such trainees. But American officials are far less circumspect. "There's a time bomb of 500 young people in Indonesia," says one U.S. official, "and that really concerns the American government."

Bin Laden's Invisible Network (29/10/01) #1763
NEWSWEEK INTERNATIONAL, October 29, 2001 issue
Al Qaeda's camps are under assault. But thousands of bin Laden's trainees have long since moved on, and they have taught many more recruits worldwide. Can we find them in time? He is a shadowy figure, lurking on the edges of the Sept. 11 attack. Federal investigators know that Omar al-Bayoumi helped pay the rent for two of the American Airlines Flight 77 hijackers, Nawaf Alhazmi and Khalid Almihdhar, on their apartment in San Diego. The Feds also know that al-Bayoumi is well educated and ambitious.

THEY WANT MEGAWATI'S POST IN 2004 (26/10/01) #1756
Amien: Quietly cultivating support from Muslims
THE STRAITS TIMES, OCT 26, 2001 FRI
By Derwin Pereira STRAITS TIMES INDONESIA BUREAU
JAKARTA - National Assembly chairman Amien Rais has quietly begun lobbying for the coveted presidential seat in 2004, making regular tours of Indonesian provinces as part of his safari politics to broaden his grassroots appeal. Over the last two months, sources in his National Mandate Party (PAN) said he had made trips to Surabaya, Malang, Semarang, Yogyakarta, Lampung and Ujung Pandang to meet leaders and supporters of two of the largest Muslim groups in the country - the Nadhlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah.

Champagne in Jakarta; Challenges in the U.S. (25/10/01) #1755
Not everyone share the American view.
Los Angeles Times, Monday, October 22, 2001
By W. SCOTT THOMPSON [directs the Southeast Asia studies program at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University]
"When we heard the news from New York, we broke out a bottle of champagne," the U.S.-educated Muslim couple e-mailed from Indonesia Sept. 11. Not only U.S.-educated, but indirectly U.S.-employed. "It served you right--supporting that terrorist [Israeli Prime Minister Ariel] Sharon." Muslims in other parts of the world have a different global perspective. And although Islam is much less intense in the world's fourth-most-populous country--they were drinking champagne, after all--these friends in Jakarta view the war against terrorism through the same lens as most educated Muslims in Nigeria, Senegal, Algeria or Syria.

Jumping the Gun (25/10/01) #1753
TEMPO Magazine, No. 07/II/October 23-29, 2001
The Justice Party made a show of strength last week in a giant protest against the American air strikes on Afghanistan. But was this an early start to its 2004 election campaign? Take a look at Jalan Raya Menteng 58 in Central Jakarta. The office of the Islamic Youth Front is swamped daily by youths. Only a building and a plot of land away is the Muhammadiyah building, which is by contrast very quiet. It is as if the contrast between the noise and the silence reflects the contrasting stances of the two Muslim organizations in the light of the US attack on Afghanistan. Muhammadiyah has tended to be careful and moderate, whereas the Islamic Youth Front (GPI) represents the hardliners. After Friday prayers last week, approximately 100 youths lined up in neat rows in front of the GPI building. There were cries of "God is Great!" Then they moved enthusiastically in the direction of the US embassy, only 200 meters away. "Chase out America, chase out all capitalists," they shouted as they marched.

Jihad recruiters find willing volunteers in Indonesia Hundreds sign... (24/10/01) #1749
San Francisco Chronicle, Tuesday, October 23, 2001
Jakarta -- Aisyah, a housewife with two teenage sons, longs to become a martyr fighting U.S. ground troops in Afghanistan. The 38-year-old, heavyset woman says she has already informed her sons that if "I die over there, you must follow." Aisyah is one of hundreds of Indonesians who recently enlisted to wage jihad against the United States in a recruitment drive organized by the 10,000- member Islamic Youth Movement. In 10 days, the group signed up 776 volunteers, including 18 women to join units of mujahedeen, or "holy warriors" in Afghanistan.

ISLAMIC EXTREMIST WAR ON CHRISTIANS SPREADS INDONESIA (24/10/01) #1746
ASSIST News Service, 22 October 2001
22 October 2001
Two members of the militant Islamist organization
Laskar Jihad, reportedly linked to Osama bin Laden, were shot dead by police near Poso, Central Sulawesi, on Saturday 20 October....
Whilst the
leader of Laskar Jihad has faced no worse than a limited period of house arrest earlier this year, Alex Manuputty, the head of the Front for a Sovereign Maluku, is facing prosecution for no more than raising a separatist flag. Commenting on this phenomenon one sociologist is reported in the South China Morning Post as saying, "It’s not that separatism is really considered a threat in Ambon these days, but by talking about that, the authorities hope to distract us from the activities of the Laskar Jihad." Meanwhile an unnamed Western diplomat commented, "No one dares to touch the Laskar Jihad, but it’s OK to nab a guy who lacks serious backing and explain away a lot of brutality against Christians in the process."

Makassar students conduct search for non-Muslims, two injured (24/10/01) #1744
The Jakarta Post, (10/23/2001 10:28:44 PM)
MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi (JP): Dozens of students from the Indonesian Muslim University (UMI) in Makassar held a search for non-Muslims in front of their campus on Jl. Urip Sumohardjo on Tuesday afternoon. Students blocked the road and demanded the identification cards of those passing the area to check their religion. The incident, which began at about 1 p.m. local time, caused tension in the area as four people -- who happened to be non-Muslims -- were beaten by the crowd after showing their identification cards.

Lewakabessy brothers murdered while picking cloves (23/10/01) #1743
The Jakarta Post, October 23, 2001
JAKARTA (JP): Two brothers, Nyong and Fery Lewakabessy, died after being shot by unidentified gunmen at the Suli village forest in Salahtu district, Ambon island, Central Maluku regency on Sunday afternoon, a report said on Monday. "They might have died on Sunday afternoon, as a bloodstain on Nyong's body was dry when it was found at 2 a.m. (local time) on Monday," Jhon Salampessy, a relative of the victims, said, as quoted by Antara.

Separatist leader in Indonesia's Maluku defends flag-raising (23/10/01) #1740
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, Monday October 22, 2001
AMBON, Indonesia, Oct 22 (AFP) - A separatist leader on trial in Indonesia's riot-ravaged Maluku islands on Monday defended his action in raising a secessionist flag, saying the government had been unable to protect its Christian citizens. "The dignity of the (Christian) community has been severely degraded by extra-judicial actions, which have eroded their confidence in law," Alex Manuputty told the tightly-guarded court in the city of Ambon.

Eight dead in religious fighting in Indonesia (22/10/01) #1735
ABC 21/10/01 21:25:43
Clashes in Indonesia between Christian and Muslim gangs armed with knives and homemade guns have left at least eight people dead. Police say around 100 Christians attacked a Muslim district on the outskirts of Poso town, in Central Sulawesi province, late yesterday.

Separatist leader in Indonesian Maluku walks out of trial (22/10/01) #1733
ABC (21/10/01 10:50:20)
A separatist leader in Indonesia's war-ravaged Maluku islands has walked out of his trial, complaining that his safety was endangered. Alex Manuputty told reporters as he left the Ambon District Court , without seeking the judge's permission, that his personal security could not be guaranteed.

'Hidden agenda' in trial of separatist leader (22/10/01) #1732
South China Morning Post, Saturday, October 20, 2001
By Vaudine England
The trial of a separatist leader in Ambon, the capital of Indonesia's Maluku islands, that began yesterday had a hidden political agenda, analysts said. Alex Manuputty was charged with raising a pro-independence flag at his home on April 25, and is being tried in a public session guarded by hundreds of extra police and troops. Manuputty heads the Front for a Sovereign Maluku, and aims to set up the Republic of South Maluku. His flag-raising effort was brief and symbolic. About six thousand Malukans have died in communal and religious fighting, and tens of thousands of displaced people are only just returning to their homes. In this context, the real reason for Manuputty's prosecution was more complex, one sociologist claimed. "It's not that separatism is really considered a threat in Ambon these days, but by talking about that, the authorities hope to distract us from the activities of the Laskar Jihad," he said.

Trial of Maluku separatist leader opens (22/10/01) #1730
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, Friday October 19, 2001
AMBON, Indonesia, Oct 19 (AFP) - A separatist leader in Indonesia's riot-ravaged Maluku islands went on trial Friday under tight security for flying a pro-independence flag. Prosecutors charged Alex Manuputty, head of the Front for a Sovereign Maluku (FKM), with violating rules of the civil emergency authority by flying the flag of the separatist South Maluku Republic on April 25.

Indonesian prosecutor accuses Maluku secessionist of flag-flying (22/10/01) #1728
Deutsche Presse-Agentur
, October 19, 2001
Jakarta, An Indonesian government prosecutor in Ambon, Maluku, on Friday indicted an alleged secessionist leader for raising the island's independence flag at his home seven months ago, a charge that could lead to a year's imprisonment, court sources said. Alex Manuputty was indicted by prosecutor Wayan Suwarna for raising the flag of the South Maluku Republic at his home on April 25.

Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 46 (22/10/01) #1727
12 - 19 October 2001
MALUKU * Security concerns continue to dominate the attention of aid workers in Ambon. Bomb explosions occurred in both Muslim and Christian areas. At a coordination meeting with NGOs chaired by the Vice Governor last Friday (12 Oct.) the TNI representative suggested that international staff should take a 'holiday' for a few days. He would not elaborate on the reasons. On Sunday the UN Field Security Officer (AFSO) in Ambon recommended that all international and national staff should relocate to Jakarta temporarily. Staff from UNICEF and UNRC were relocated to Jakarta between Tuesday and Wednesday and another group will move out on Friday or Saturday with the AFSO. One international staff member from Save the Children (UK) also moved out to Denpasar last Tuesday. As a result, only limited humanitarian activity is currently carried out by NGOs. MSF-B, Mercy Corp and AcF are still operating in Maluku but with reduced staff. Two international staff from IMC are still in Bali working on their recruiting programme.
NORTH MALUKU * Drs. Ismail Gorotomole, the Secretary of Central Halmahera District told Antara news agency in Tidore that the Sultanate of Tidore would pioneer the reconciliation process in the district. This process will involve all members of society who will gather on 31 October to mark the 11th anniversary of the creation of the district. The theme of the day will be reconciliation. Activities will include a ceremony involving the Sultan of Tidore, religious leaders, traditional community figures, community leaders, youth as well as Muslim and Christian IDP representatives.
SOUTHEAST SULAWESI - BUTON * Following last week's clashes between local residents and IDPs in Buton Island, the police maintained a strong presence in the main town, Bau-Bau, and blockaded the road to Wakonti village, where the IDPs are staying. Between two and eight people might have died in the conflict. Police during the weekend arrested two IDP youth suspected of detonating a bomb in Bau-Bau last week. The local government has warned that IDPs might be sent back to Ambon. This could raise further tensions in the future. Most IDPs are descendants of Butonese who migrated to Maluku. They fled Maluku at the start of the conflict two years ago. Save the Children-UK, which had closed its office last week following the clashes, reopened this week with two international and four national staff.

Will Indonesia's leader please step forward (22/10/01) #1726
Asia Times (atimes.com), October 20, 2001
By Bill Guerin
JAKARTA - With the United States-led "coalition" intent on justifying the end with the means, Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri has become little more than an observer at home as stances harden, public figures do 180-degree turns, and everyone, but everyone, wants to be seen and heard. On Sunday, Megawati, responding to implicit and explicit pressures from sections of the local media, legislators, mainstream Muslim groups and even her Vice President Hamzah Haz, finally spoke out and criticized the bombing offensives.

Indonesia warned over terrorism stance (18/10/01) #1722
CNN-Asia, October 17, 2001 Posted: 5:34 AM EDT (0934 GMT)
By Atika Shubert CNN Jakarta
JAKARTA, Indonesia (CNN) -- On the eve of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders meeting in Shanghai, Australian Prime Minister John Howard warned Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri not to soften her position on the war on terrorism. "I don't think it is in the interests of her country or in the interests of stability in our part of the world for Indonesia to weaken its support for the American position," The Age daily Australian newspaper quoted Howard as saying.

Laskar Jihad says it will keep away from anti-US rallies (18/10/01) #1719
But the group's commander calls on people to wage holy war
THE STRAITS TIMES, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2001
JAKARTA - A Muslim group waging a 'holy war' against Christians in Maluku said yesterday it would not join rallies against the US military attacks on
Afghanistan. 'We have never staged anti-US demonstrations and we will not do so. We are not good at organising demonstrations,' Laskar Jihad spokesman Wirawan Adnan told a press conference.

ICC Update: Indonesia--Christian Persecution in Indonesia (17/10/01) #1712
Country Report Last Updated: October 2001
Extremist Groups: Laskar Jihad (Holy War Army) -- a self-styled army of Islamic "warriors" who are waging a "holy war" against Christians. The army is mostly composed of veterans from Bosnia and Afghanistan along with students from local Muslim schools.
Recent Actions: Ongoing – Violence between Muslims and Christians began on January 19, 1999 during a dispute between a Christian bus driver and a Muslim passenger. Insiders say, however, that the incident simply provided the necessary catalyst for militant Muslims to instigate a premeditated plan of violence against Christians. As of February of 2001, an estimated 8,000 people have been killed in the resulting violence and at least 500,000 have been displaced.
Suggested Actions you might take: Pray for the Christians of Indonesia that they may continue to be protected from harm and that the Christian message may be heard and received by all.

White House brushes aside Megawati criticism (17/10/01) #1710
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, Monday, October 15 2001 11:31 PM SGT
WASHINGTON, Oct 15 (AFP) - The White House on Monday brushed aside Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri's criticism of military strikes on Afghanistan's Taliban rulers, saying the best defense against terrorists is "a strong offense." President George W. Bush "has made clear that the United States is going to take steps to defend itself and the best defense is a strong offense," White House spokesman Ari Fleischer said in response to a question about Megawati's comments.

Diplomats Worry About Indonesia's Tolerance of Islamic Radicals (16/10/01) #1705
THE WASHINGTON POST, Saturday, October 13, 2001
By Rajiv Chandrasekaran Washington Post Foreign Service
JAKARTA, Indonesia, Oct. 12 -- For the fifth day in a row, hundreds of students and members of radical Muslim groups converged on the U.S. Embassy here. Repeating what has become an afternoon ritual, they hoisted pictures of Osama bin Laden and banners calling the United States "the real terrorist." They screamed anti-American slogans.

Survey finds many Indonesians approve of bin Laden (16/10/01) #1701
REUTERS, Monday October 15, 2001 4:03 AM
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Many Indonesians regard Saudi-born militant Osama bin Laden as a fighter for justice and support efforts by the ruling Taliban in Afghanistan to shelter him, according to a survey published on Sunday. In results likely to surprise some, 50 percent of 2,400 respondents to the online survey last week by a leading newspaper, Media Indonesia, said bin Laden was a "justice fighter". Less than 35 percent thought he was a terrorist.

Megawati condemns U.S.-led strikes on Afghanistan (16/10/01) #1700
REUTERS, Monday October 15, 2001 1:47 AM
By Muklis Ali
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia's president on Sunday expressed veiled but strong condemnation of U.S.-led air strikes on Afghanistan, saying no government had the right to attack another country or seek to cleanse blood with blood. Abandoning Jakarta's stance that the strikes should only be limited and apparently bowing to local Muslim pressure, Megawati Sukarnoputri made the comments at a religious ceremony in what amounts to a diplomatic blow for U.S. President George W. Bush.

Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 45 (15/10/01) #1699
05 - 12 October 2001
MALUKU * On 9 October, five bombs exploded in different areas of Ambon City, two of them at the city's outskirts. There were no casualties. People continued their usual activities, but more cautiously. In the early evening, additional barricades were set up. Demonstrators have gathered everyday since Wednesday in front of the Al Fatah mosque in Ambon to protest the U.S.-led air strikes in Afghanistan. The military dispersed the crowd around noon every day. On 11 October representatives of the demonstrators proceeded to the Governor's building to meet with the Vice Governor.
NORTH MALUKU * The discovery at the end of last week of the body of a returnee in a forest near Togawa village, in Tobelo sub-district, caused fear of reprisals and anxiety among returnees in the area. However, investigations this week revealed that the death was accidental. Community leaders, the security forces and the local government are conducting local meetings to re-assure the public in the area and maintain the state of peace and reconciliation.
SOUTHEAST SULAWESI - BUTON * SC-UK reported that violence erupted between the local population and IDP communities in Buton on Sunday night (7 October) following a stabbing incident in Bau-Bau. One of the IDPs involved is from the IDP settlement in Wakonti while the other is from Bataraguru, which has a predominantly local population and where the IDPs have already been integrated. SC-UK was unable to confirm who was injured in the stabbing attack.

Islamic militant groups turn to the Internet to promote their cause (15/10/01) #1697
NEWSWEEK Magazine, October 15, 2001 issue
By Melinda Liu
The Muslim militants engaged in a blood feud with Christians in Indonesia’s fabled Spice Islands arm themselves with spears and machetes. But their leaders are literate, media-savvy—and wired. The Laskar Jihad, a Java-based group that claims to have raised 15,000 fighters across Indonesia, has also put together an impressive media operation that includes daily, weekly, biweekly and monthly publications, as well as a radio network and Web site. Leaders claim that they receive up to 2,500 hits a day from surfers looking to chat with like-minded Muslims, send donations or download nifty mujahedin screensavers with a logo of two crossed scimitars and the motto ready to die.

IS A HOLY WAR BREWING? (15/10/01) #1696
BUSINESS WEEK Magazine, October 15, 2001
By Michael Shari in Jakarta
Nauful Dunggio lives thousands of miles from the seat of Islamic terror in the Middle East. But Indonesia's self-styled Islamic leader claims to be as outraged by U.S. hubris as Osama bin Laden himself -- and swears that if the U.S. mounts an attack on Afghanistan, Americans in Indonesia will pay. The 32-year-old chief of the Hizbulloh Front -- which claims no link with the Middle East's notorious Hezbollah -- runs what he calls a training camp for prospective mujahideen (holy warriors) outside Jakarta. At one recent session in the living room of a safe house on the outskirts of Jakarta, Dunggio, with a severe crew cut and a baseball cap, watched with pride as an Islamic cleric trained 50 recruits to use their ''inner spiritual power'' in hand-to-hand combat. The highlight of the evening came when one recruit followed orders to grind a fluorescent bulb into a salad bowl until his hand bled. He then ate a handful of the fragments.

Q&A: Islam in Indonesia (15/10/01) #1694
THE TIMES [London], THURSDAY OCTOBER 11 2001
Political demonstrations have taken place this week at the American and British embassies in Jakarta. Dr Peter Carey, a tutor at Trinity College, and Dr Marlies Glasius of the London School of Economics, discuss the impact of the Muslim communities in Indonesia.

Anti-American "Training Camp" -- or "Circus Act"? (15/10/01) #1693
BUSINESS WEEK Magazine, October 9, 2001
By Michael Shari
Gullible teens, an imam/magician, and plenty of threatening talk helped me fathom how easily young Muslim "soldiers" can be recruited. It was Naufal Dunggio's first meal ever at a five-star hotel. Would he prefer à la carte or the buffet, asked the waiter at the Mandarin Oriental in Jakarta? Dunggio, sporting a severe crewcut and a long-sleeved shirt of fluorescent orange, lowered his head, pursed his lips suspiciously, and asked my interpreter what a buffet was. After several minutes of back-and-forth, he was eventually persuaded that he could, indeed, serve himself as many times as he liked. Then, ordering coffee, he glazed over at the dizzying spectrum of choices from regular to latte before settling on cappuccino.

US may turn attention to far east terror groups (12/10/01) #1692
Pentagon says Filipino separatists have links to al-Qaida

The Guardian, Thursday October 11, 2001
Matthew Engel in Washington
The second front in Washington’s war on terrorism may soon be opened up in the far east, where the US believes there are several groups that have links to the al-Qaida network. Officials at the state department and the Pentagon are known to be especially alarmed about the situation in Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim country. Suggestions that covert operations would soon - or may already - be under way there, as well as in the Philippines and possibly also Malaysia, were given some credence by sources close to the administration yesterday. There has been strong opposition in all three states to the US attacks on Afghanistan.......
Two Indonesian fundamentalist groups are suspected of having links to al-Qaida. One is the Islamic Defenders Front, whose leader, Muhammad Rizieq, described the US on Monday as a "terrorist nation... who must be driven from the face of the earth". It has also threatened foreigners and is known to raid bars and nightclubs frequented by expatriates. The other group, Laskar Jihad, has been threatening to wage a holy war on the Molucca islands, which have experienced bloody religious riots in the past few years, and is suspected to have had
reinforcements from the Taliban.

Indonesian Muslim group says it will expel Americans (12/10/01) #1682
REUTERS, Thursday October 11, 2001 7:10 PM
By Tomi Soetjipto
JAKARTA (Reuters) - A radical Indonesian Muslim group said on Thursday it would hunt down Americans and Britons to try to drive them out after the government ignored a deadline to cut ties with the United States over air attacks on Afghanistan. As the small but vocal Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) made its threat, 1,000 women wearing white veils and men in robes stood at the heavily fortified U.S. embassy shouting "destroy America" in the fourth straight day of limited but often rowdy protests.

Legislators ask U.S. to prove allegations on Osama-linked terrorists (12/10/01) #1681
The Jakarta Post, 12 Oct. 2001
JAKARTA (JP): The United States government should present proof of its allegations that Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda network has members in Indonesia, legislators said on Thursday. "Such allegations must be proven by the U.S. government. Otherwise, it will only create instability here," House of Representatives (DPR) speaker Akbar Tandjung said, as quoted by Antara. Akbar called on the Indonesian government, especially the security apparatus, also to prove the allegations and take anticipatory measures if they were true.

Indonesia queries report that US to target domestic groups (12/10/01) #1680
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, Thursday October 11, 2001 7:22 PM
JAKARTA, Oct 11 (AFP) - Indonesia on Thursday queried a media report that terrorists allegedly based here may be a future target of "covert and overt action" by the United States in its war on terrorism. "I would challenge the source of that report, as it's not clear who is speaking or in what capacity," foreign ministry spokesman Wahid Supriyadi said. The New York Times report, quoting an unnamed US official, said that terrorists tied to Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda network based in Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia could be among future targets.

Analysts Fear Protests May Endanger Cgi Loan to Indonesia (12/10/01) #1679
ASIA PULSE, Thursday October 11, 2001 1:58 PM
JAKARTA, Oct 11 Asia Pulse - Analysts have expressed anxiety that Indonesia's traditional loan providers may no longer consider the country deserving of loan assistance. The Consultative Group on Indonesia [CGI], which is chaired by the World Bank, may refuse extending new loan when it meets next month, former finance minister Bambang Subianto said. The Paris Club of official creditors may also turn down an Indonesian request for more debt rescheduling, Subianto said Wednesday.

U.S. sending 'anti-terror team' to Manila (12/10/01) #1677
CNN, October 11, 2001
MANILA, Philippines (CNN) --The Philippine government says the United States is sending a "sizeable" military delegation to Manila as part of efforts to crack down on militant groups linked to terrorist suspect Osama bin Laden. Philippine National Security Adviser Roilo Golez said the U.S. delegation, numbering more than a dozen, will provide training and equipment to Philippine troops in their operations against the Abu Sayyaf group.Golez said the task of the American troops shows "heightened cooperation between the Philippines and the United States".

Indonesia: Violence and Radical Muslims (12/10/01) #1673
ICG - International Crisis Group, 10 October 2001
The destruction of the World Trade Centre and part of the Pentagon by terrorists has again focused international attention on radical Muslims and their potential to engage in acts of terrorism. Osama bin Laden’s al-Qaida organisation is said to have cells in 34 countries including the United States, most European countries, and various countries in the Arab world. Informed observers have also speculated that al-Qaida has a presence in several Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. At the very least it has been claimed that Osama bin Laden has ‘links’ with radical Islamic groups in these countries although the exact nature of these links has not been specified.

Honeymoon is over for Indonesia's Megawati, say observers (12/10/01) #1671
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE,
Wednesday October 10, 2001
JAKARTA, Oct 10 (AFP) - Two months after installing her cabinet amid a wave of cautious optimism following the chaotic 21-month rule of Abdurrahman Wahid, the honeymoon for Indonesia's fourth president Megawati Sukarnoputri is over, observers and analysts say. "Most countries give their new leaders 100 days or three months before unleashing the criticism, but in Mega's case it's only been two months and everyone's criticising her now. There are even calls for her resignation," said political analyst Rizal Mallarangeng.

Megawati to Face Tough Questions From House Over US Strikes (12/10/01) #1670
ASIA PULSE,
Wednesday October 10, 2001
JAKARTA, Oct 10 Asia Pulse/Antara - The Indonesian House of Representatives [DPR] will question President Megawati at a consultative meeting on Friday over the country's political stance she has taken in response to the US-led air strikes on Afghanistan. House Speaker Akbar Tanjung said here on Tuesday the House will have to know in detail the government's stand over the US attack on Afghanistan.

Indonesian MPs summon FM to explain stand on US attacks (12/10/01) #1669
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, Wednesday October 10, 2001
JAKARTA, Oct 10 (AFP) - Indonesia's parliament, taking a harsher line than the government on the US-led attacks in Afghanistan, has summoned Foreign Minister Hassan Wirayuda to explain the government's stance. "Our stance is harsher than the government's. We condemn the attacks," deputy leader of the house commission on defence and foreign affairs, Astrid Susanto, told AFP on Wednesday. "We've asked the foreign minister to come to the parliament to explain the government's position."

Anti-American Protests Increase, and Sponsors Plan More (12/10/01) #1668
THE NEW YORK TIMES, October 10, 2001
By SETH MYDANS
JAKARTA, Indonesia, Oct. 9 - Anti-American demonstrations widened in Indonesia today, with riot police firing tear gas to disperse angry protesters outside the United States Embassy in Jakarta. The protests, in at least four cities, remained relatively small, but radical Muslim groups said they were preparing larger demonstrations and repeated their warnings that they might attack foreigners here.

American Action Is Held Likely in Asia (12/10/01) #1667
The New York Times, October 10, 2001
By TIM WEINER
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 - Terrorists tied to Osama bin Laden's network and based in the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia are among the likely targets of future covert and overt American actions, United States officials said today.

Radical Muslim Groups Assail Indonesia's Ties With U.S. (10/10/01) #1665
Westerners Advised To Remain Indoors
THE WASHINGTON POST, Tuesday, October 9, 2001
By Rajiv Chandrasekaran
Washington Post Foreign Service
JAKARTA, Indonesia, Oct. 8 -- Radical Muslims threatened today to attack foreigners and lay siege to embassies here if the Indonesian government does not sever diplomatic ties with the United States in response to the military strikes against
Afghanistan. Senior officials pledged to counter the threat, the latest in a series of intimidating statements that have led dozens of U.S. Embassy employees and hundreds of Western residents to leave in recent days. With anti-American rhetoric escalating, several Western embassies urged their citizens who have opted to stay in Indonesia to remain indoors.

U.S. Campaign Puts Indonesia in a Bind (10/10/01) #1664
The Wall Street Journal
, October 9, 2001
By JAY SOLOMON
Staff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
JAKARTA, Indonesia -- The first shots in Washington's war on terrorism have put Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri's three-month-old government in a political dilemma. Ms. Megawati has personally promised U.S. President George W. Bush to back the U.S. campaign. But sentiment among many Indonesian Muslims appears to be running against the military strikes in Afghanistan by the U.S. and Britain. On Monday, Jakarta urged the U.S. to limit the use of military force, as protesting Indonesian Islamic militant groups threatened to retaliate against Americans and other Westerners. The small, but raucous Islamic militias vowed to begin a jihad, or holy war, against Western interests in the country.

Australia warns its citizens to avoid Indonesia, except Bali (10/10/01) #1663
The Jakarta Post, (10/9/2001 6:31:17 PM)
JAKARTA (Agencies): Similar to the British government, Australia on Tuesday warned its nationals to avoid neighboring Indonesia after radical groups threatened to attack westerners in retaliation for the US-led strikes of Afghanistan. "Australians should defer travel to Indonesia if they are thinking of going, with the exception of Bali," Foreign Minister Alexander Downer told journalists as quoted by
AFP.

INDONESIA/MOLUCCAS: Tension Follows US Attacks (10/10/01) #1661
Tension has apparently escalated in Ambon, the provincial capital of the war-torn Moluccas Spice Islands following the terrorist attacks in the US on 11 September. "People are assuming there will be another big riot because of the attacks; prime suspect, Osama Bin Laden, is believed to be a significant donor of the movement of Laskar Jihad fighters in the Moluccas," said JRS Asia Pacific.

Security tight at US embassy in Jakarta (09/10/01) #1660
ABC 9/10/01 11:12:23
Indonesian security forces have positioned armoured vehicles and troops close to the US embassy in Jakarta after hardline muslims threatened to stage demonstrations. Mark Bowling reports one radical religious group has warned the government to cut diplomatic ties with Washington or it will attack US facilities and American citizens and their allies.

Indonesian Muslim radicals threaten foreigners (09/10/01) #1659
REUTERS, Monday October 8, 1:25 PM
By Terry Friel
JAKARTA (Reuters) - A radical Indonesian Muslim group on Monday threatened to hunt foreigners and destroy foreign targets as embassies warned their citizens to stay inside to escape retaliation over U.S.-led strikes against Afghanistan. The small but vocal Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) demanded President Megawati Sukarnoputri cut ties with Washington and its allies and urged millions of Muslims in the world's largest Islamic nation to lay siege to the U.S. embassy in Jakarta on Monday afternoon.

Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 44 (09/10/01) #1658
28 September - 05 October 2001
NORTH MALUKU * The provincial Parliament rejected the result of the gubernatorial election following allegations of malpractice by the elected candidates during the election process. A new election is to be held later this month, but the candidates involved in the controversy are barred from contesting again. Ternate remains calm despite fears that the decision might spark protests from discontented parties.

Excerpts from the Debate on International terrorism (09/10/01) #1657
British House of Lords 4 October 2001
Full transcript from: Here
Baroness Cox: My Lords, perhaps I may begin by joining other noble Lords in expressing great appreciation of the Government's demonstration of solidarity with the United States in its declaration of war against international terrorism, in ways which have been both principled and
practical...
I have also recently had the privilege of visiting Indonesia and travelling to the exotically-named Spice Islands or the Moluccas, which had been a kind of Paradise but which have become a kind of hell. Indonesia had a reputation for religious tolerance, where Muslim and Christian communities lived peacefully together. However, in the Moluccas, the situation changed tragically in January 1999 when violent conflict erupted. That conflict has since claimed the lives of thousands and driven hundreds of thousands from their homes to live as internally displaced people in harsh conditions in the jungle. Through my organisation, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, I have been working with the traditional Muslim and Christian leaders. We met members of both communities during our recent visit to the islands of Ambon and Seram. They expressed their grave fears over the arrival of between 2,000 to 3,000 Lasker Jihad warriors who were stirring up religious conflict and engaging in militant activities. There is widespread concern in the Moluccas that the Lasker Jihad will take over this strategic part of Indonesia for militant Islamism. There is therefore an urgent need, which I hope the Government will be able to meet, to encourage and support the new administration in Indonesia in any policy needed to contain militant

Foreign embassies close on different grounds (09/10/01) #1655
The Jakarta Post, 8 Oct. 2001
JAKARTA (JP): Besides the United States and the British, Canada and France have also closed their embassies over different grounds, an official said on Monday. The head of the mass media and public information affairs division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wahid Supriyadi, confirmed the temporary closure of the four foreign embassies. "One of grounds for the closure is an anticipatory measure to public reaction over the U.S.-led attacks on Afghanistan. Others because of public holidays in their respective countries," Wahid said.

Muslim hardliners to lay seige to US embassy (08/10/01) #1652
ABC 8/10/01 11:01:08
An Indonesian Muslim group has urged millions of Muslims to lay siege to the US embassy in Jakarta after the strikes in Afghanistan. The Islamic Defenders Front says it will beseige the embassy later today and has called on muslims to wage a holy war against the US and its allies.

US citizens in Indonesia warned to prepare (08/10/01) #1651
ABC 8/10/01 10:02:28
An Indonesian Muslim group has threatened to hunt down foreigners and destroy foreign targets if Jakarta does not sever diplomatic ties with Washington and its allies over the attacks. The Islamic Defenders Front has given Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri 72 hours to cut relations or foreigners will be attacked.

Tourists cancel holidays to Indonesian resort (08/10/01) #1650
ABC 6/10/01 23:05:15
More than six-thousand foreign tourists have cancelled their holiday plans on Indonesia's resort island of Bali following the twin terror attacks in the United States. The state Antara news agency reported those who cancelled their trips to Bali included American and European tourists as well as Asian holidaymakers.

The War Over Jihad (08/10/01) #1645
ASIAWEEK, OCTOBER 12, 2001
By FARISH NOOR
The task before Muslims today is to reclaim jihad and to invest it with its true meanings, different from those imposed by mullahs and militants. The term jihad is now part of the language of international discourse. But instead of helping to heighten the understanding of Islam, its repeated mention is hurting the religion's image. The media need to shoulder some blame for that. But Muslims must also realize that the meaning of jihad has been hijacked by the very people who have resorted to violence in its name.

I could become president in 2004 even with low vote: Amien (08/10/01) #1644
The Jakarta Post, 7 Oct. 2001
JAKARTA (JP): National Mandate Party (PAN) chairman Amien Rais said on Saturday that he still had a shot at the presidency as long as his party could secure just 7 percent of the vote in the 2004 general election. "The opportunity is still there for me even if PAN only secures seven or eight percent of the vote. But the ticket (for the presidency) will be a tough one," Amien, who is also speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), said as quoted by
Antara while leading prayers for PAN members at the Garut town square in West Java.

Americans Are Target of Radicals in Indonesia (05/10/01) #1643
The New York Times, October 4, 2001
By SETH MYDANS
JAKARTA, Indonesia, Oct. 3 - Sweeping: It is an English word that has taken on an unsettling meaning in Indonesia. The military uses the word, in English, for its search-and-destroy missions when it hunts for separatist rebels. And now it is what radical Islamic groups say they are going to do with Americans: sweep them out of the country.

Indonesia Urges US To Show Restraint In Anti-Terror War (05/10/01) #1642
ASSOCIATED PRESS
October 4, 2001
JAKARTA (AP)--The world's most populous Muslim nation Thursday said it still supports Washington's campaign against global terrorism, but called on the U.S. not to go to war as part of it. Indonesia has seen a rise in anti-U.S. sentiment since the Sept. 11 terrorist strikes on the U.S. Thousands of Muslims have demonstrated against possible U.S. retaliation.

Unofficial summary of local press articles: 29 Sep & 1 Oct 2001 (04/10/01) #1640
*Wagub meet with local NGOs*
As an outcome of the recent IDP seminar, which was held at the Amans Hotel last September 18-19, the Vice Governor of Maluku, Dra. Paula Renyaan, anticipating that NGOs in Maluku could work together with the Government and other NGOs as conveyed in seminar. Through sharing of data and information, a more integrated and cooperated approach could be put into operation, such as identifying IDPs should be assisted for emergency and relief, who are not, as well as other activities and services being provided for these group by NGOs and the Government.

Indonesia's Afghan-Trained Mujahideen (04/10/01) #1639
A story of Indonesia's own mujahideen.
TEMPO Magazine, No. 04/II/October 2-8, 2001
Jihad is the key to heaven and the highest jihad is to fight in the path of God. These words by the khatib echoed through the mosque-cum-headquarters of the Islamic Youth Movement (GPI) on Jalan Raya Menteng in Central Jakarta during the weekly Friday prayers, last week.

JIHAD JIVE
TEMPO Magazine, No. 04/II/October 2-8, 2001 (04/10/01) #1638
For the
commander of Laskar Jihad, Jafar Umar Thalib, the MUI call showed a sympathetic attitude and great commitment from the institution, intended to reflect the overall aspirations of the Muslims of Indonesia. Laskar Jihad is a new Muslim organization but its reputation has quickly grown thanks to its support of the Muslim side in the conflict with Christians in Ambon.

North Maluku Press Excerpts Unofficial Translation 28 Sept. 2001 (03/10/01) #1635
RRI Ternate
"Journal 18" at 18:00 Eastern Indonesian Time "NORTH MALUKU DISTRICT GOVERNMENT WILL COOPERATE WELL WITH PRESS" On Thursday, (27/09) Bupati (Head) of North Maluku District, Mr. Gahral Syah, together with all his staff hosted a friendly friendship gathering with both print and electronic local journalists at his office. Gahral expressed his intention to improve good cooperation and relationship between district local government and journalists, as the local government would always put journalist as equal partners.

Indonesia to revoke citizenships of those who go to Kabul (03/10/01) #1634
ABC 2/10/01 22:10:41
Indonesia's government will revoke the citizenship of those who travel to Afghanistan to fight against any United States military operation there. Some groups have called for a jihad if the U-S attacks Afghanistan -- where Osama bin Laden, Washington's chief suspect in the September 11 terror attacks on New York and the Pentagon, is believed hiding. Indonesia's Islamic Youth Movement says it has registered hundreds of volunteers for jihad.

Indonesia's relgious radicals call for holy war (03/10/01) #1632
ABC 2/10/01 22:33:24 | 7.30 Report
In Indonesia, the prospect of a US attack on Afghanistan has raised the wrath of radical religious groups, with calls for a jihad or a holy war and threats against Americans and their allies. Hundreds of US citizens, government workers, business people and their families have left the country and many Australians are also weighing up their options.

An exodus of Americans from Indonesia (02/10/01) #1630
ABC 2/10/01 9:54:46
The U.S. State Department warning of attacks on U.S. citizens and factories by radical Indonesian groups has resulted in dozens of family members of Nike and Adidas employees' leaving Indonesia.

Megawati under pressure after backing terrorism coalition (02/10/01) #1629
ABC 1/10/01 21:39:37 PM
Indonesia's President Megawati Sukarnoputri is back in Jakarta after a visit to Washington in which she pledged her full support to the international coalition against terrorism. But in the world's most populous Muslim nation, that is a politically dangerous move.

US to send team to Indonesia to advise on terror (02/10/01) #1628
ABC 1/10/01 22:51:07
Indonesia's foreign Minister Hassan Wirayuda says the United States will send a team to Indonesia soon to advise on ways to combat terrorism.

Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 43 (02/10/01) #1626
21 -- 28 September 2001
MALUKU * Notwithstanding the two bombing incidents last week near the Christian-Muslim borders in Galunggung and in front of one of Pattimura University's alternative campus in Pohon Pule, the whole province (including Ambon city) has remained relatively calm. Two suspects have been apprehended and are now in police custody after the bombing in Pohon Pule. The police are continuing their investigation into the Galunggung incident. These two incidents have followed the recent pattern of incidents occurring in so-called neutral areas where the two communities mingle to do business or attend school.
NORTH MALUKU * The Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, stated that judicial processes over those accused of causing conflicts in North Maluku and Maluku provinces would likely be carried out outside these provinces, so as to maintain neutrality and to avoid a new communal conflict as well as to ensure security.

Waiting for Osama's Blessing (02/10/01) #1623
TEMPO Magazine, No. 03/II/Sep 25 - Oct 1, 2001
Osama bin Laden, currently the talk of the world, comes in many faces. To the Americans, the Saudi-born tycoon is like a devilish troublemaker. However, in the eyes of some Muslims in various countries he can be an angel who blesses everybody. This country is no exception. In reality, Osama is no devil to those occupying a dull white building at Pejaten Timur, South Jakarta. This is the office of the Darul Islam monthly, at the same time the place where Darul Islam activists often gather. Some of them once joined the jihad (holy war) in Afghanistan, the country now said to be protecting Osama. This is also where Al Chaidar, a young activist of this group, lives. When TEMPO met with him last week, he was just awaiting Osama's blessing. This means that if America dares to attack Afghanistan, his movement will gain new momentum. Darul Islam will react strongly while demanding that the Indonesian government enforce sharia or Islamic law.

Bin Laden 'funded Christian-haters' (02/10/01) #1622
Sydney Morning Herald, Friday, September 28, 2001
By Lindsay Murdoch, Herald Correspondent in Jakarta
Indonesia's third-largest Muslim group had received funds from and had a "very special" relationship with Osama bin Laden's terrorist organisation, one of its leaders said yesterday. Mr Al Chaidar, who heads one of 14 factions of the radical Darul Islam movement, told the Herald that bin Laden's organisation had sent more than 1.2 billion rupiah, the equivalent of about $243,000, to fund anti-Christian operations in Indonesia. "Yes, we've got funding and assistance from the Osama bin Laden group since we went helping Afghanistan in the 1980s," Mr Al Chaidar said.

Bin Laden gave to Indonesians (02/10/01) #1621
The Age [Melbourne], Friday 28 September 2001
By LINDSAY MURDOCH, INDONESIA CORRESPONDENT JAKARTA
Indonesia's third largest Muslim group got funds from and had a "very special" relationship with Osama bin Laden's terrorist organisation, one of its leaders said yesterday. Al Chaidar, who heads one of 14 factions of the radical Darul Islam movement, told The Age that bin Laden's organisation had sent more than 1.2 billion rupiah, the equivalent of about $A243,000, to fund anti-Christian operations in Indonesia.

The fear factor weighs heavy in Indonesia (02/10/01) #1620
Asia Times (atimes.com), September 26, 2001
By Bill Guerin
JAKARTA - US President George W Bush last week met Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri, and in the Oval Room itself, the seat of Western power, he promised to lift the long-standing United States military embargo on arms and spare parts sales, and sponsor a substantial economic support package for Indonesia.

Indonesia is a Risky Ally in Terrorism Fight (02/10/01) #1619
Pacific News Service, September 27, 2001
By Ben Terrall
President Bush this week promised Indonesian president Megawati Sukarnoputri economic aid in return for her support of Bush's plan to fight terrorism. But PNS contributor Ben Terrall warns that the United States must avoid supporting the Indonesian army, which wages terror campaigns of its own and has ties with radical Islamic groups. Terrall is coordinator of the San Francisco Chapter of the East Timor Action Network.

Radical Blasts (02/10/01) #1618
ASIAWEEK, OCTOBER 5, 2001
Megawati wants to reassure the U.S. of her support, but growing Islamic opposition at home puts her in a bind. On her U.S. tour, Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri hit all the right notes in assuring her hosts the world's largest Muslim nation stands with them in its war on terror. In Houston, she donned a cowboy hat and told investors her government would protect their Indonesian interests. In New York, she called those who died in the World Trade Center attack martyrs to American democracy. The message to Americans back in Indonesia, however, was decidedly less positive. Unhindered by police, Islamic militants in Solo, in central Java, visited several hotels, warning that U.S. citizens would be run out of town if Washington attacks Afghanistan. Across the country, radical groups threatened holy war against the United States and its allies.

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