Life is Healthy

Total population of wealthy people in Asia Pacific has experienced a major growth, rose 25.8 percent to 3 million people by 2009. In fact, the amount exceeds the population of wealthy people in Europe. The report said by the Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management and Capgemini has just been released 28 September 2010.

Property value of millionaires in the Asia Pacific region increased 30.9 percent to U.S. $ 9.7 trillion in 2009. Meanwhile, the number of super rich people in Asia Pacific rose 36.7 percent to 19,600.

"China and India become a motor of fastest growth of rich people in Asia Pacific, while Japan is still the most important market in Asia," said Wilson So, Head of Wealth Management at Merrill Lynch Global Wealth for the Asia Pacific region. This area is very promising and a strategic focus for the wealth management company. "

According to the report, the population of rich people in the Asia Pacific region is still focused on the top three countries, namely Japan, China and Australia. The three accounted for 76.1 percent of the total population of wealthy people in Asia Pacific, as well as controls 70 percent of the total wealth in the region.

Japan is by far the largest market for the Asia Pacific region which controls 54.6 percent of the population of millionaires and covers 40.3 percent of wealth in the region. Meanwhile, China became the second largest market in the region and fourth largest in the world with a total population of 477 thousand millionaires, or up 31 percent from a year earlier.

India is also experiencing rapid growth in 2009 with the increase in millionaire population and wealth as much as 50.9 percent and 53.8 percent. The increase was driven by the re-emergence of stock markets, as well as domestic economic strength.

"Asia-Pacific proved to be the toughest region in the economic crisis," said Bertrand Lavayssière, Managing Director Global Financial Services, Capgemini.

1. Qatar

Qatar is ranked first as the richest country in the world with a GDP per capita of U.S. $ 90,149 per year in 2010. Qatar is one of oil and gas rich country in the Middle East region, and also the largest gas exporter in the world. Total land area of 11,586 square kilometers with a population only 1.15 million inhabitants in 2009.

Interestingly, Qatar is the only country from the Arab region that included in the top ten world's richest nations. Total foreign exchange reserves is only U.S. $ 19.8 billion in November 2009. With gross domestic product of U.S. $ 52.7 billion in 2008, Qatar's economy relies on oil and gas industry.

2. Luxembourg

Luxembourg ranks second as the world's richest country with GDP per capita of U.S. $ 79,411 per year. Luxembourg is a small country in the world with an area of just 2500 square kilometers. Total population is also very small, only 490 thousand people in 2006.

Luxembourg is known as one of the countries that rely on economies of central services and financial services, where many of the rich save their money. More than 86 percent of Luxembourg's GDP valued at U.S. $ 54 billion comes from service industries. Even so, in Luxembourg, also known a number of the world's top industry, such as ArcelorMittal (steel), RTL Group (media), Evras Group (material) and the Tenaris (oil).

3. Norway

Norway occupies the third position as the world's richest countries with GDP per capita amounted to U.S. $ 52,964 per year. The country located in northern continental Europe, the total population is very small, only 4.7 million inhabitants occupy an area of 323 thousand square kilometers.

Norway is an exporter of oil and refined products, machinery and equipment, metals, chemicals, ships and fisheries. Norway's GDP reached U.S. $ 449 billion in 2008 by relying on industry and services. Several large companies are Norwegian Statoil (oil and gas), Telenor (Telecommunications), Yara International (chemicals) and Orkla (food and beverages).

4. Singapore

Singapore ranked fourth with a GDP per capita of U.S. $ 52,840 per year. Singapore located in Southeast Asia is a small island states, with an area almost equivalent to Jakarta. Singapore Area only 699 square kilometers, while the Jakarta area 661 square kilometers. However, Singapore's population just 4.75 million people.

This country's foreign exchange reserves total U.S. $ 187 billion at the end of December 2009 and total gross domestic product of U.S. $ 181 billion at the end of 2008. Singapore relies on revenue as service centers and financial services in Asia. Many wealthy people in Asia, including Indonesia save their money in this country.

5. Brunei Darussalam

Brunei is one of a small country in Southeast Asia. The total area of 5765 square kilometers with a population of 400 thousand people. The total population of Brunei's GDP per capita is U.S. $ 48.7 million, or a Rp438 million per year.

With a total GDP of U.S. $ 11.5 billion, Brunei's economy relies on oil and gas industry. The Kingdom state, led by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, one of the richest people in the world is a country that has plenty of oil wealth.

6. United States

The sixth rank as the world's richest countries, the United States, also known as the country with the largest economy in the world. With a total GDP of U.S. $ 14 trillion, not any single country that run counter to U.S. economic prowess. Hundreds of U.S. companies also entered the ranks of the world's top multinational corporations, let's call them Google, Yahoo, Facebook, Microsoft, Exxon, Chevron, Wal-Mart, Citigroup, JPMorgan Chase and so on.

With hundreds of world-class companies, despite a population of 308 million inhabitants, the average American population into a row of the world's most prosperous citizens. Total U.S. GDP per capita is U.S. $ 47.7 thousand per year.

7. Hong Kong

Hong Kong, one of the World's richest Country from Asia, along with Singapore and Brunei which occupies a row of the top 10 richest countries of the world. With a GDP per capita of U.S. $ 44.8 thousand or per year, Hong Kong ranked seventh in the world.

With an area of 1104 square kilometers, Hong Kong has a population of 7.1 million inhabitants. With a total GDP of U.S. $ 215 billion, economy, the Hong Kong (92 percent) rely heavily on service industries and services, particularly financial. Total foreign exchange reserves of U.S. $ 255 billion in December 2009. Some companies snapper is a Hong Kong Hutchison Whampoa, Jardine Matheson, China Mobile and CNOOC.

8. Switzerland

With a GDP per capita of U.S. $ 43.9 thousand per year, Switzerland occupies the eighth position as the world's richest countries. Occupying an area of 41 thousand square kilometers, one country in Europe has an estimated population of 7.3 million inhabitants.

Swiss economy is also dependent on financial services and industrial sectors with a total GDP of U.S. $ 488 billion in 2008. Switzerland is also known as a country where rich people save their treasure. A number of reputable companies are Nestle Swiss, Suisse Credit Group, Zurich Financial Services, and Roche Holding.

9. Netherlands

Holland occupies the ninth position as the world's richest countries with GDP per capita of U.S. $ 40.6 thousand per year. Area occupies 41 thousand square kilometers, the Dutch territory inhabited by 16.8 million people in 2009.

Netherlands economies also depend on the service sector and industries with a total GDP of U.S. $ 860 billions in 2008. A number of top companies worldwide are Royal Dutch Shell, Unilever, ING Group and Royal Philips Electronics.

10. Australia

Australia occupies the tenth position as the world's richest countries with GDP per capita of U.S. $ 39.4 thousand per year. Australia's total area reached 7.6 million square kilometers with a population of 21.5 million inhabitants.

With a total GDP of U.S. $ 1,015 trillion, the Australian economy depends on the service sector and industry. A number of large companies from Australia are ANZ Bank, Rio Tinto, Telstra.

Qatar has emerged as the richest country in the world with per capita income of U.S. $ 90,149 in 2010.

Latest Publication by leading U.S. business media, Global Finance said Qatar's per capita income increased compared to last year amounted to U.S. $ 83,841.

Came in second place was Luxembourg, which is known as the richest country since long. The per capita income of the country with a very small populations has reached U.S. $ 79,411. The third position is occupied by Norway with per capita income of U.S. $ 52,964.

Meanwhile, Singapore was in fourth position with per capita income of U.S. $ 52,840. Brunei was in fifth place with U.S. $ 48,714.

As the most prosperous country in the world, according to a publication that was released 19 September 2010, Qatar get a blessing from the jump in state revenues was driven by increased production and export of liquefied natural gas (LNG). In fact, Qatar has become the biggest gas exporter in the world with production reaching a record of 77 million tons per year.

Interestingly, Qatar is the only representative from the Arab region who were in the top 10 richest countries of the world. Among Arab countries, Qatar ranked first. Second position in the Arab countries, Kuwait with income per capita of U.S. $ 38,984 or only half if compared with Qatar.

Qatar is not only known as the richest country and the largest gas producer. However, this country is the most competitive countries in the Middle East. According to data from the World Economic Forum 2010-2011, Qatar was in 17th position as the most competitive country in the world and number one in the Middle East.

Qatar is a country with a stable macroeconomic environment, efficient markets, bureaucracy and institutional quality, efficient and low-level government corruption, as well as a very good level of security. World Economic Forum this September has reported that "Qatar is the fastest growing country in the world, in 2010 Qatar economic estimated to grow 18.5 percent,"

Global Finance, Leading U.S. business magazine, recently has released an updated list of rich, wealthy, prosperous and poor countries throughout the world. The magazine showcases 182 countries around the world from the richest to the poorest. Richest country is occupied by Qatar, with a gross domestic product (GDP) per capita of U.S. $ 90,149 per year in 2010. While poorest country is the Republic of Congo, with GDP per capita is only U.S. $ 342 a year.

The method used to determine the state of wealth is to compare the living standards of the overall population of one country by using gross domestic product (GDP) per capita based on parity or purchasing power balance internationally.

This measure of living standards between countries, using indicators of the relative cost of living, inflation, and exchange rate of a country that was converted into a common currency (international dollars, U.S. dollars).

Here are the List of Ten Richest Countries in the World

Bank Indonesia (BI) has revoked the business licenses of 25 Non-Bank Foreign Exchange Dealer (Pedagang Valuta Asing Bukan Bank / PVA BB) or money changer. Those 25 money changers are indicated to the elements of the crime of money laundering activities.

Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia Budi Rochadi after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) People's Business Credit (Kredit Usaha Rakyat / KUR) in the office of the Ministry of Economic Affairs said, BI already has the disciplinary rules of money changer in particular the problem of licensing and capital.

Revocation of the 25 money changers, he said, according to Bank Indonesia Regulation (PBI) No.9/11/PBI/2007 September 5, 2007 on Foreign Exchange Traders. BI has provided it's first warning, second warning, and calls of Executives and Shareholders. However, all of those processes were not heeded.

Given today's 25 money changers did not heed and follow up the invitation to the Board and the Shareholders in more than six months since the issuance of sanctions, then the BI impose sanctions in the form of revocation of business licenses.

The 25 Money Changers are:

1. PT Aneka Valasindo Lestari;
Globe Plaza, Lantai I No. 145, Jalan Samanhudi No. 4, Pasar Baru, Jakarta Pusat.

2. PT Anugerah Siloam Valasindo;
Gedung Atlantica, Jl. Kuningan Barat No. 7, Jakarta Selatan.

3. PT Apex Valasindo;
Gedung Harco Mangga Dua Lt. 1 No. 31, Jl. Arteri Mangga Dua Raya, Jakarta Pusat.

4. PT Bina Arta Swadaya Money Changer;
Rukan Artha Gading Niaga Blok C No. 10, Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara.

5. PT Bogoan;
Jl. Kali Besar Barat No. 38, RT/RW : 006/003, Jakarta Barat.

6. PT Davinzki Forexa;
Grand Panglima Polim, Jl. Wijaya II/52, Jakarta Selatan.

7. PT Dewata Artha Pratanshi;
Cilandak Town Square Matahari Supermarket Lt.1, Jl. TB. Simatupang Kav.17, Jakarta Selatan.

8. PT Diorra Prima Valutama;
Jl. Suryo No. 50, Jakarta Selatan.

9. PT Duta Mustika Valasindo;
Pusat Niaga Roxy Mas Blok E I/42, Jl. KH.Hasyim Ashari, Jakarta Pusat.

10. PT Indovalas Kemalindo;
Tamini Square, Lt. Ground Blok GS 10 No.01, Jl. Pondok Gede, Jakarta Timur.

11. PT Indovalas Prima;
Jl. Danau Sunter Utara Blok J12 No. 6, Sunter, Jakarta Utara.

12. PT Inko Asset;
Gedung Bursa Efek Jakarta Menara 1, Suite 304, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 52-53, Jakarta Selatan.

13. PT Megasari Investment;
Jl. KH. Wahid Hasyim No. 007, Jakarta Pusat.

14. PT Miger Forexindo;
Jl. Boulevar Artha Gading, Mal Artha Gading Lt. 1 Blok A6/15, Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara.

15. PT Molindo Viega Egitama;
Jl. Sultan Iskandar Muda Ruko No. 8N, Jakarta Selatan.

16. PT Permata Leleangi Indovalas;
Jl. Asia Afrika Senayan Trade Center Lt. 4, Gelora Tanah Abang, Jakarta.

17. PT Prima Indoses;
Komp.Ruko Roxymas Blok D3/23, Jl. KH Hasyim Ashari, Jakarta Pusat.

18. PT Prima Prestasi Valutama;
Jl. Daan Mogot No.88, Jakarta Barat.

19. PT Prima Valasina;
Jl. Prof Soepomo SH 6 A, Jakarta Selatan.

20. PT Rahayu Inti Valasindo;
Wisma Mitra Sunter Ground Floor D-04, Jl. Yos Sudarso Kav.89, Jakarta Utara.

21. PT Royal Dana Ekatama;
Jl. Kapten Tendean No. 12, Jakarta Selatan.

22. PT Sumber Devisindo Bersama;
Jl. KH. Hasyim Ashari No. 12 Rt.001 RW.004, Petojo Utara, Gambir, Jakarta Pusat.

23. PT Tuparev Valas;
Jl. Tuparev No. 281, Karawang, Jawa Barat.

24. PT Tri Murti Valasindo;
Oil Center Building, Jl. M.H.Thamrin No.55, Jakarta Pusat.

25. PT Yatim International Money Changer;
ITC Kuningan Lt.3 Blk.C1 No.3, Jl. Prof Dr. Satrio, Jakarta Selatan.

Directorate General of Taxation Mochamad Tjiptardjo revealed that the Ministry of Finance was preparing a tax incentive in the form of tax holiday to attract capital investment in the country.

"The incentives now being discussed are tax holiday. The team has been formed by the Finance Minister, now still in progress," said Tjiptardjo after silahturahmi and gatherings in the Ministry of Finance neighborhood in Jakarta, Tuesday (14 / 9).

Mochamad Tjiptardjo mentioned, in time if the assessment is completed, they will reporting the form of the tax holiday. "This is about the harmonization of the Law on Investment with the Law on Income Tax. What is the real form of the tax holiday, is still be reviewed. The team has been formed," he said.

When asked when the incentive tax holiday can be realized, Tjiptardjo said, ideally, can be given from January 1, 2011. Tjiptardjo said the government is already providing many tax incentives to support local business growth, but only a tax holiday that is still hanging.

"There is only one consistent with the Law on Investment, and only tax holiday is still hanging. The others are available such as tax depreciation rate, restitution is accelerated, and decreasing tariffs," he said.

He mentioned, in Indonesia's Law on Taxation, did not known form of tax holiday incentive. this kind of Incentive is regulated under the Act on Investment so harmonization of regulations is necessarily needed.

Tax holiday is generally a tax exemption for employers to pay within a certain period. Usually the tax holiday granted as a fiscal stimulus to attract investors from abroad to invest.

International Food Producer, Kraft Foods Inc. on Monday (7 / 9), has proposed a takeover of chocolate and candy producer Cadbury PLC worth 16.7 billion U.S. dollars. However, Cadbury has rejected the offer. Cadbury shares has rose 41 percent to 803.5 pence, or Rp 133.000 in trading on the London Stock Exchange.

Cadbury said the offer is below the normal price. The chocolate company is also confident in their strategy to remain independent and growth prospects will remain good for a strong brand, unique category, and a strong geographical scope. Meanwhile, Kraft said it will not give up and continue working to improve the offers so that it can be supported by the board of directors of Cadbury.

Kraft, which produces food brands such as Velveeta, cheese, and Oreo cookies, said it had proposed to pay 300 pence (Rp 50.000) in cash and 0.2589 new shares of Kraft Foods stock for every Cadbury shares. Thus, Cadbury shares valued 745 pence (Rp 123.000) per share. This value is equivalent to 31 percent above the price of Cadbury shares trading at the close of last Friday, for 568 pence (Rp 94.250).

Cadbury's market share in the global confectionery industry by 10.3 percent in 2008. Cadbury took second place after Mars Inc. with 14.8 percent. As for Kraft in fifth place with a market share of 4.5 percent. Cadbury has a 28.4 percent market share in the global gum market, while Kraft is only 0.1 percent. Kraft, based in Northfield, Illinois, USA, said the combination with Cadbury would create huge power in the snacks market, sweets and fast food.

Graham Jones, analyst at Panmure Gordon & Co., recommends the shareholders to wait until the offer of Kraft rose at least to 800 pence (Rp 132.750) per share. "The question is, whether there is another offer that may be proposed by a consortium of Nestle. ujar Jones. The scenario, it appears Kraft will improve the offers," Jones says.

Jeremy Batstone-Carr at Charles Stanley & Co. even said that the possibility of offering price is above the 800 pence.

Marditech, a Malaysian company which plans to invest in the cultivation of seaweed, dropping the expert team to examine the potential of marine commodities in Southeast Sulawesi Province. "waters of South East Sulawesi is very strategic for seaweed cultivation and certainly its potential promising for the development of the seaweed industry," said Anas Ahmad Nasaruddin, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Marditech in Kendari, Tuesday.

The arrival of a joint expert team of Malaysia in Kota Bau-bau to take samples of seaweed as a researchs ingredient is the continued visitation from the Malaysian businessman Datuk Chemoor Azis.

Investment of seaweed in Southeast Sulawesi, expected can be promote mutually beneficial partnership between investors, governments and farmers. "We (investors) expecting certainty of production while the farmers waiting for guarantees of the market at reasonable prices. Investments that has the principles of partnership are believed to improve the welfare of the people," said Anas.

Marditech, the company led by Datuk Aziz Chemoor who is also an arm of the Malaysian PM optimistic that the seaweed investment climate in South East Sulawesi is very promising, so that the government pledged to boost the development of the infrastructures such as electricity, ports, airports, water supply and adequate means of communication.

"We are grateful to the mayor of Kota Bau-Bau and South East Sulawesi governor who has been seriously welcomed the investment plans of seaweed," he said.

Director of Food Technology Research Centre from Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) Hj Normah Omar said, seaweed is not just for the food needs but also the raw material for the cosmetic industry and medicine.

"Indonesian Seaweed Potential convincing but the important thing to be a concern is the increase in quality, so can be competing in the world markets," said Normah. Director of the Malaysian Technology Development and Promotion Center, Husein Abdul Rahman said, seaweed will bring prosperity to the people if the maximally managed.

"Southeast Sulawesi's Seaweed will be demanded by consumers from all over the world if the quality is better. Therefore, the research in order to determine the quality of fresh seaweed will be done soon," said Husen.

In addition to the interest of seaweed potential , businessmen from the neighbor country also intends to invest in the farm sector, fisheries, tourism and mining.

Informal Ministerial Meeting (IMM) of the World Trade Organization (WTO) produce a conclusion among member countries of WTO, reaffirms desire completing the Doha Round of negotiations in 2010.

"Conclusion Chair's Summary has decided by the Chairman, an Indian Trade Minister Anand Sharma, after conducting in-depth discussion of how to translate political will into the process of negotiations in Geneva," said Trade Minister Mari Elka Pangestu, when making long distance phone calls with reporters in New Delhi, India, Friday, September 4, 2009.

WTO IMM held in New Delhi, 3-4 September 2009, initiated by the Government of India and attended by ministers and deputy ministers from 35 WTO member countries, and WTO Director General Pascal Lamy.

Politically, Mari said, Chair's Summary will be a valuable input for the Conference of Heads of State G-20 which will be performed in Pittsburgh in the third week of September 2009.

According to Mari, unlike political appeals earlier, the results of IMM are more concrete because the ministers agreed to translate political commitment into concrete action by describing the resolution of the Doha Round sequences in an action of road map.

"The ministers agreed that the Chief Negotiator or a senior official to meet in Geneva on September 14, 2009, to create a program of action that must be executed in two or three months, so that negotiations can be completed in 2010," said Mari.

"And most importantly, the United States has shown a signal to start negotiations. With the U.S. gave a positive signal, China will also give a positive response, because since the beginning of China is committed if the United okay, China will also okay," Mari said.

In addition, in Informal WTO Ministerial Meeting also agreed that the head of negotiations on service issues and other issues immediately resolve the issues that still have not agreed, making priorities of the discussion and create a work program and timeline to include the revised offer for the services.

PT United Tractors Tbk (UNTR) recently doing a due diligence with two coal companies in Central Kalimantan. Acquisition funds will be taken from the rest of the rights issue amounting to U.S. $ 75 million. "We're completing due diligence with the two coal mining companies in Central Kalimantan," said Investor Relations UNTR, Ari Setiyawan in Jakarta.

Ari said, the two mines are located near the mining area of PT. Tuah Turangga Agung (TTA) newly acquired last year. Those targeted mines has a minimum of 20-40 million tons of coal reserves. "The locations close to the TTA. Reserves we were looking for between 20-40 million tons. The two mines were still green fields (not producted yet)," he said.

Ari said that due dilligence process has started since early August 2009. Usually, Ari continued, this process will take approximately 3 months. "We hope the results will be already on October. If suitable, November or December can be acquired," he said.

Unfortunately, Ari can not provide the estimated acquisition value of the mine. But the plan, UNTR will only take 1 mine from the two mines that are in due diligence. "The value could not be mentioned. But we'll take one, if appropriate," said Ari.

Although no specific value, Ari said the company has prepared a special budget for acquisitions. The fund will be taken from last year's rights issue funds. "The remaining funds of rights issue still U.S. $ 75 million. For the acquisition it will be used entirely from there. If still less, we can find external funding," said Ari.

For the development of mining infrastructure which would be acquired, Ari said the cost would not be too large. Proximity of the targeted mines that not far from the TTA makes the company no longer need to create its own infrastructure for new mining area.

"The location near the TTA. So the infrastructure can come from the TTA. At that time TTA infrastructure investments of about U.S. $ 35 million. For the new mines will not be so big," said Ari.

Until now, United Tractors already has two coal mining subsidiary, PT Dej Mining and TTA. PT Dej Mining already operating and will produce 2.5 million tons of coal this year. "TTA operate around November-December this year. The goal, next year TTA production reach 1 million tons. So next year our coal production of about 4.5 million tons," said Ari.

For the new mines would be acquired later this year, the plan will be operated in late 2010 or early 2011. "The target, the new mine will produce 1 million tons in 2011. Our target in the year 2012, we are able to produce 10 million tons of coal," Ari said.

Bank Indonesia has asked six overseas central banks and monetary authorities to perform black list on two foreign shareholders of Bank Century. Both of the shareholders had become a fugitive of Indonesian police.

Those foreign shareholders are Hesham Al-Warraq and Rafat Ali Rizfi, not clear now where they are. Meanwhile, their partner, a local shareholders, Robert Tantular has curled up in prison.

Hesham, Rafat and Robert were found to have assets related to Century Bank's securities and cash in Hong Kong worth for U.S. $ 1 billion. These names are mentioned associated with bulging bonds of Century Bank.

So who are those two foreign shareholders? So far no detailed information about Rafat Ali Rizfi, except known as citizen of Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Hesham is a British citizen who was born in Egypt. Referring to the financial statements of Century Bank 2007, other than as a shareholder, Hesham is a former Deputy Commissioner Century Bank since 2006. Hesham also served as Director of First Gulf Asia, the controlling shareholder of Century.

Hesham earned a degree in Finance and Banking from Western Illinois University, United States. In addition, he had followed several certification programs / education held by Citibank, SAMBA and Saudi British Bank Training Center.

Hesham banking career started in the Saudi American Bank from 1983 to 1996, with the last position as Senior Manager. Then joined Booz Allen & Hamilton Saudi Arabia, a consultant company to the U.S. government and Saudi Arabia, from the years 1996-2004 as a Joint Venture Partner and Vice President.

Century Bank's capital injection has become controversial because of the amount of funds injected jumped from the original estimate to Rp. 6.7 trillion. Previously Bank Indonesia (BI) said that fraud occurs in Century Bank was coordinated by the owner and the Century Bank management.
[ BI: Fraud In Century Bank Coordinated ]

The United States Government positively assess the implementation of Timber Legality Verification System / Sistem Verifikasi Legalitas Kayu (SVLK) as part of Indonesia's efforts to promote legal timber trade.

Assistant of United States Trade Representative (USTR), Mark Linscott, in Jakarta on Wednesday, said, Indonesia has taken important steps to prevent illegal logging and illegal timber trade. These steps include the development of law and regulation tools such as SVLK, he said. Linscott also stated that after the bilateral working group meeting of Indonesia-United States to combat illegal logging.

Moreover, the U.S. government itself has imposed Lacey Act amendments since December 2008 as an effort to prevent illegal logging and illegal timber trade. Although Linscot rates positive the development of legal devices in Indonesia, Linscot still said, "It's too early to tell whether the device (SVLK) which was developed in Indonesia to meet the requirements as regulated in the Lacey Act. Need further analysis for that."


On the same occasion, Director General of Forest Production Development from Forestry Department, Daryanto, said, SVLK ensure the legality of timber and wood products produced by Indonesia. "Thus, Indonesia's timber products are not expected to be difficult to enter the U.S. market that enact the Lacey Act amendment," he said.

Hadi even see, the implementation of the Lacey Act, increasing export opportunities for Indonesian wood products to the United States. Because, with the enactment of these provisions, countries that used to accommodate many illegal timber from Indonesia and then exported to the United States now will have trouble.

To Certified timber products, Ministry of Forestry through the National Accreditation Committee / Komite Akreditasi Nasional (KAN) accrediting 15 independent assessors agencies, and 1 verification institutions.

Bank Indonesia (BI) said fraud that occur in Century Bank is coordinated between the owner and the Century Bank management. It makes difficult for BI to detect fraud at the bank owned by Robert Tantular.

According to Deputy Director of the Directorate of Supervision BI, Heru Kristiyana after the Century bank acquired by Deposit Institution / Lembaga Penjamin Simpanan (LPS), the review process becomes more open. That's because the old management had been changed to make it more transparent.

"A lot of fictitious assets done by the owner and the bank management coordination," Heru said in Jakarta on Monday, August 31, 2009. In exercising supervision, Bank Indonesia did it with the way of documents examination and direct inspection on a periodic basis (onside). This was to clarify the findings of the BI. "Because conducted coordinated with management, then the fraud difficult to detect," he said.

He pointed Century Bank embezzlement of U.S. $ 18 million made at 04.00 o'clock in the morning. "At the time is used to retrieve the money, it is difficult for BI to know," he said.

In addition to finding embezzlement of U.S. $ 18 million, BI find export credit (LC) fictive from 6 companies worth U.S. $ 95 million of 6 debtor. These findings became known only after the Century Bank was taken over by LPS.

Development of oil refinery and fuel processing which is planned by PT Pertamina (Persero) in the country was only able to suppress reduction of fuel imports for 25 percent of current oil imports more than 40 percent to 15 percent.

"Construction of the refinery was to decrease the gap between imports and domestic production capacity," said Director of Marketing and Commerce Pertamina Achmad Faisal at the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources Jakarta, Monday, August 31, 2009.

Faisal said, the current domestic premium consumption reached 123.889 million barrels, while domestic refinery capacity 68.553 million barrels, as well as domestic premium consumption growth per year to reach 5.68 percent. However, with the construction plan of new refineries and additions of refinery capacity from Balongan, premium production is estimated to be 164.999 million barrels.

Faisal admitted, if the refinery capacities are to be constructed may be enlarged in the future Pertamina does not need to import more premium, we can even exports Minyak Solar / High Speed Diesel. "In 2017, if the refinery is completed, the production of diesel fuel could reach 200.840 million barrels. Meanwhile, domestic consumption 171.893 million barrels," he said.

Pertamina plans to build three refineries, ie Bojonegara with a capacity 300 thousand barrels per day (bpd) of early stage will be built with a capacity of 150 thousand bpd and is expected to operate in 2015. Development of Tuban refinery with a capacity of 300 thousand bpd and is targeted to start operating in 2016, and the expansion of Balongan refinery with a capacity of 200 thousand bpd and is targeted to start operating in 2015.

On the same occasion, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Purnomo Yusgiantoro said that the slow realization of the construction of oil refineries, among others due to the amount of investment needed and the low of margins.

"Therefore, in order to support the development of an oil refinery in cooperation with BKPM, Directorate General of Oil and Gas, Ministry of Finance, BPH Migas and Pertamina to discuss incentives support for refinery investment," he said.

ExxonMobil ensure its subsidiary company, Mobil Cepu Limited, began to flow the oil from Blok Cepu this afternoon (31 / 8). "The flows for start-up (initial production) from the field of Banyu Urip to the Mudi facility," said ExxonMobil spokesman Maman Budiman in a short message.

Initial production is estimated at five thousand barrels per day. He said the drainage of oil through the pipeline will be owned by Pertamina / Geolink. Initial production target of Blok Cepu should be done at the end of last year. But it continued to stretch the target until could be done this afternoon.

Government targeting the initial production of Blok Cepu reached 20 thousand barrels per day. Executing Agency Head of the Upstream Oil and Gas says to start in mid-September will produce a new 15 thousand barrels per day and will increase gradually.

Dutch oil company, Royal Dutch Shell, move the U.S. retail company, to reach the top position in the list of Fortune's global 500 world's largest companies. This list become a proof that Shell is still one of the best oil company in the world.

Based on the latest list released by Fortune, in the year 2008 Shell successfully attract revenue of 458.361 million U.S. dollars with a profit of 26.277 million U.S. dollar. Although the percentage of Shell's profit has decreased compared to the year 2007, it does not impede the Shell increased 2 ratings to reach the peak position.

Sit under Shell is the main competitor, Exxon Mobil. Exxon Mobil failed to reach the title as the most succesful company in the world, but at least they succeeded in reaching the first rank as the most succesful United States company.

The Exxon successfully reach revenue of 442.851 million U.S. dollars and profit of 45.220 million U.S. dollars.

In the best 10 of the list of Fortune's global 500 world's largest companies, there are seven oil companies. Of course, this is caused by crude oil prices and other mineral commodities are in the highest level in last year .

Here is the list of 10 largest companies in the world version of Fortune magazine:

1. Royal Dutch Shell
2. Exxon Mobil
3. Wal-Mart Stores
4. BP
5. Chevron
6. Total
7. Conoco Philips
8. ING Group
9. Sinopec
10. Toyota Motor

Indonesia Young Entrepreneurship (IYE) Community will hold exhibitions of different products produced by its members titled Young Entrepreneurs Expo 2009 on 7-9 August 2009 in the Mazee-FX Sudirman, Senayan, Jakarta.

"This activity aims to facilitate the IYE community members interact with one another, as well as expand the network," said Budi Dewobroto, Chairman of the Committee of Young Entrepreneurs Expo 2009, in Jakarta, Thursday (6 / 8).

He explained during this time IYE members only interact via e-mail marketing so that their products be limited to fellow community members only. With this exhibition, he said, it is expected that the IYE members can exchange ideas directly.

Budi said will shows 20-30 exhibition outlets for the participants to promote their products. Some of the works that will be displayed among other garments, women's accessories, bags, shoes and food products. "Besides the exhibition, this event will show a business presentation of the IYE members, cooking demos and seminars with invited marketing experts and popular speakers in the field," Budi said.

Meanwhile, one of the initiator and founder of IYE community, Christopher Emille, estimate the exhibition will attract around an 1,000-person per day with a turnover of Rp 500 million to Rp1 billion per day.

"Although there are estimates of the turnover, but this event is not aimed to pursue the sale of the product of members but how they interact with each other and promote the products in the community," he said.

Christopher added Young Entrepreneurs Expo 2009 is also expected to motivate the youth of Indonesia entering the entrepreneurship world.

The decline in global economic activity and changes in currency exchange rates of the world also causes changes in the order of the most expensive cities in the world for expatriates. The more strengthened currency of a country, the cost of living in that country will be higher.

According to survey results from Mercer, a consulting organization of human resources, Tokyo has become the most expensive city for the expatriates, replacing Moscow. Besides Tokyo, Osaka take second place, rising rapidly from the rank ninth. Geneva also increase the ranking to fourth position, followed by Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Johannesburg, South Africa, replacing Asuncion in Paraguay as the cheapest city.

In the Mercer's survey, New York, used as reference. All cities surveyed compared with New York, while the movement of currency exchange rate compared to the U.S. dollar.

The survey covers 143 cities across the world and compare the price of 200 types of goods and services at each location, such as housing, transportation, food, clothing, household goods and entertainment.

This survey was the most comprehensive cost of living survey and used to help multinational companies and governments in determining the amount of the cost of living for expatriates.

The decline in the global economy have changed dramatically many real estate markets. In the period March 2008-March 2009 exchange rate fluctuations occur, especially the U.S. dollar against several currencies in the world. Euro, for example, weakened against the U.S. dollar. In the same period, British pounds has weakened 26 percent against the U.S. dollar.

Weakening euro in the period to make the majority of the city in Europe down in the ranking. Warsaw into a city that had fallen most dramatically, from position 35 to be-to-113. London and Oslo which previously ranked in the major 10 falls down to position 13 and 10.

Same trend seen in Australia, New Zealand, and India. Indian rupee exchange rate against the U.S. dollar had fallen years ago and all of Indian cities came down from the ranked as the consequences. New Delhi had fallen from the rank 55 to become 65 and Mumbai's ranking 48 to 66.

Cities In Asia Increases

Conversely, the position of cities in China, Japan, and the Middle East has increased the ranking. Strengthening exchange rate of U.S. dollar, Japanese yen, and the rise in oil prices makes the cities in those developing countries is more expensive. New York enters the range of these 10 most expensive cities, up dramatically from rangking 22 to 8.

Because the Chinese currency Renminbi strengthened compared with other currencies, the more expensive cost of living in large cities in China. Beijing, for example, rose from rank 11 to rank 9, entering the 10 most expensive cities in the world. Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and got the rank 12, 22, and 23.

Nathalie Constantin-Métral, senior analyst at Mercer, said, "As a direct impact from the weakening economy over the last few years, we observed the occurrence of significant fluctuation in the strong currency of the world."

"This thing is affecting the order of ranking in this year. Many currencies, including the euro, weakened against the U.S. dollar and cause a decrease in ranking of the expensive cities in Europe. With such close relation with the global economy and currency, multinational companies will continue to get the impacts from global crisis."

Good news comes for users of BlackBerry SmartPhone handsets in Indonesia. Research In Motion, the manufacturer of the smart phone is ready to open official repair facilities and service Center of BlackBerry products in Indonesia.

"RIM is currently in the process of preparation to open the official repair facility in Indonesia that will soon be opened in the near future," RIM said in a press release as quoted by VIVAnews on 8 July 2009.

"The repair facility will expand the ability of RIM's after-sales service that currently owned to support the BlackBerry smartphone sales growth by RIM partners in Indonesia."

This Canada-based Vendor is very pleased with the positive responses to the BlackBerry products and services in Indonesia. RIM also will continue its investment in Indonesia to support its partners and customers that the number are increasing quite rapidly.

In addition, RIM is also optimistic with the future of the smartphone market in Indonesia and will continue to work together with government to meet all the conditions and regulations that applies in this one of the most optimistic market in Asia.

Previously, Indonesian government halts Blackberry newest product sales because RIM does not have any After Sales Service Center in Indonesia.

Export volume from Indonesia to China in 2009 expected to be reached $ 30 billion, or the same with last year acquisition. From this value, the target of LNG dispatch from Tangguh field to Fujian in this 2nd semester can contribute as much as USD1 billion.

"This year, gas shipment from Tangguh to Fujian is expected can contribute to the volume of exports from Indonesia to China targeted $ 2 billion per year, can be as much USD1 billion," said Minister of Trade Mari Elka Pangestu, during a press conference at the Office of the Ministry of Trade, Ridwan Rais street, Jakarta, monday (6/7/2009).

She also says that the actual export volume target of Indonesia-China $ 30 billion is the target in 2010, but appeared to be achieved in 2008 due to an increase in commodity prices. So that the target for 2010 should be revised again.

The commodities that are expected to encourage Indonesia's export to China such as coal, CPO, rubber, fruits like mangosteen, salak, and avocado and export manufacturing, electronics, textiles and motorcycles. "Market is quite promising in there," she added.

In addition, the tourism sector is also becoming a great potential for the receipt of the state. "This year, estimated 100 million Chinese citizens who visit Indonesia. So, this is a great potential for us," Mari Elka Pangestu said.