Slipping Through The Cracks MILLIONS of tons of rice from Vietnam flood Indonesian markets every year. Cheaper than local rice, profi teers take advantage of the government’s wishy-washy policy to fi nd ways to import rice illegally. But stopping the smuggling alone is unlikely to solve the year-in, year-out problem of whether or not to import rice. Why is it so difficult for the government to set up the right policy on rice and stop the smuggling and speculation? Special Report Bung Tomo HIS name emerges every year on Heroes’ Day, November 10, when people recall the fierce battle in 1945 to retake Surabaya. Bung Tomo, né Sutomo, regarded as the fi gure who incited citizens to rebel against the colonial powers through his radio speeches, remains a big mystery. Why was he named a hero—when as reports claim, he was not even in Surabaya during the three-day battle that led to thousands of Indonesians being killed? A special report on a piece of Indonesia’s history. Outreach: When The Young Preserve The Old LOCAL tradition, arts and culture around the country have been eroded by the ever-aggressive pop culture. As elsewhere in the world, most people, particularly the young, fi nd it easier to accept and blend in with modern lifestyles. Yet, there are also idealistic young people who feel proud and protective of their cultural identity and who, on their own initiative, work hard at preserving their roots. It is a phenomenon that is emerging in many regions, such as in Medan, North Sumatra, in Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara and in Jayapura, Papua, where the group Rumah Karya Indonesia has been active in encouraging the preservation of tribal honai homes. Tempo English reports on the idealism, enthusiasm and activity of youths to commemorate Youth Pledge Day.

Keywords :
Rice Import , Vietnam flood ,