Mathias Hariyadi

Three people are killed, dozens of homes are burnt and hundreds of people are forced to flee following clashes between supporters of the outgoing district leader and of his successor, who won the election. The Constitutional Court's decision to confirm the poll's results unleashes the wrath of part of the population. Checkpoints are set up to ensure order and guarantee security.

New rule came into effect on 26 August in Situbondo District. For District Chief Dadang Wigiarto, praying enhances collaboration and work "thanks to divine intervention." The rule requires officials to sign a register so that their participation can be verified. Political and community leaders have criticised the initiative, noting that praying is personal in nature and that any penalty should be removed.

In recent days, the Indonesian rupiah has touched the lowest level in the last three years, with a rate of 1 in 11,300 to the dollar. Investors fleeing and businesses are moving lock stock and barrel to neighboring Vietnam. Bureaucracy and legal uncertainty exacerbate the problem. Experts talk about a "fragile and uncertain" situation. The government seeks urgent action , including an increased taxation of luxury goods.

A group of demonstrators took to the streets today demanding Susan Jasmine Zulkifli's removal; among their reasons, the fact that she cannot participate in Muslim functions. Smiling, the official said that everyone has the right "to make their voices heard in a peaceful manner." Her open straightforward manner has won over her fellow citizens.

The notorious Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) demands the suppression of beauty contest, claiming it is foreign to the "national culture" and foments "carnal desire". Densus-88, the special anti terrorist units guilty of killing innocent civilians during a raid, also targeted by fundamentalists.

Bishop Ignatius Pr Suharyo invites the new priests to follow Christ and serve others "with actions, rather than words." The ceremony was held in a parish on the outskirts of the capital, to encourage vocations. Catholic institutions in Jakarta fundamental in education and formation of future priests.

The second Congress of the Indonesian diaspora (CID) held its second annual conference a few days ago with thousands of participants in an event that is gaining "international" stature. President Yudhoyono and Foreign Minister Natalegawa were among the hosts welcoming Indonesian expats. Greater cooperation to contribute (from abroad) to the development of the motherland was one of the goals.

Members of a radical group want Susan Jasmine Zulkifli, a Protestant, dismissed from her post as Lenteng Agung sub-district chief. Fundamentalists present unreliable petition. The real targets of the political attack are the capital's governor and his Christian deputy.

A bus carrying members of the Bethel Church, returning from a retreat in Puncak Pass, crashed for reasons yet to be determined. Rescue workers continue to bring out passengers wedged in the wrecked bus. On social networks, Indonesian Christians express solidarity and offer prayers.

A proposal to such an effect comes from HM Rasyid, head of the Department of Education in Prabumulih Regency. Concerned for high school kids, he wants the measure introduced next year. This has proven controversial on social networks and among civil society groups. The commodification of the female body is a widespread phenomenon that also affects the very young.

Parties, celebrations and environmental initiatives characterised the 68th anniversary of independence. In his address to the nation, Yudhoyono stressed economic progress and integration, but sectarian intolerance and the loss of "energy sovereignty" threaten them.

Rudi Rubiandini, head of the SKK Migas special commission, pocketed nearly a million dollars in U.S. and Singapore currency. He is a popular lecturer and close to President Yudhoyono. Highest profile" case for anti-corruption commission, both for the personality and amount of money involved.