Mathias Hariyadi

The presence of human remains indicates that the two explosions were suicide attacks. Strong condemnation from the Islamic Ulama Nadlatul and the Council of Ulema. Susilo fears for the consequences on the economy.

Two suicide bombers checked in at the Marriott Hotel a week ago. Clues lead to Nurdin Moh Top, a Malaysian terrorist blamed for other attacks. Police chief and President Susilo claim attacks were part of a plan to prevent the latter from taking office. Defeated presidential candidate Megawati Sukarnoputri reacts to allegations.

The Mayor of Pekanbaru has issued a directive requiring students to wear traditional Muslim clothing. The Islands’ Christians stress that the law is unconstitutional and an "abuse of power." Criticism from women: a burden on family budgets.

The cases of infection for the H1N1 climb to 98 thousand, 440 dead. On July 13, a speech by the WHO on the outcome of the research for the production of a vaccine. In the Philippines cases of Ebola discovered among pigs, which could transmitt the virus to humans.

Exit polls put outgoing president in the lead with 60.13 per cent of the vote. In his first reaction Yudhoyono thanks voters for going out to vote but he will not make any claim until final results are in. Former President Megawati slams excessive media euphoria, saying it is a bad example for democracy. She also alleges irregularities in the poll.

People who are not on voters’ lists can still vote presenting their identity papers. This will guarantee basic political rights and prevent popular unrest. Pollsters and local pundits give outgoing President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono a good chance to succeed himself.

Local Islamic groups fear it is a "front" for proselytizing. The house was designed by a well-known secular women’s group that cares for autistic children, with mental retardation and multiple disabilities. The consecrated state that in their homes all have the same care, whatever religion they belong to.

For the past two years the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul have been recycling plastic in East Java, turning it into umbrellas, bags, mobile phone cases and rosary beads. Thanks to the initiative, a number of families are earning a living selling these products.

The Catholic Church has begun a campaign to study and analyse each candidate’s programme. The prelates urge people to exercise their right to vote and choose the candidate that pursues the “common good”, including religious freedom, peace and pluralism.

Indonesia’s prelates deny media reports that claim they are encouraging voters to abstain. Instead they want the faithful to vote according to their conscience. They also warn against the use of religious symbols to win votes.

In July the country votes for its’ President and his deputy. The candidacy of three ex-military men stokes fears of a drift towards “nationalism” that could “lead to fundamentalism”. The PKS demands more representatives in government; Catholics and industrialists concerned for the future of the nation.

According to witnesses the plane began to loose parts mid flight. The Indonesian air force has maintenance problems and lacks spare parts.