Over 50 timber companies in Irian Jaya, Kalimantan and Sulawesi were forced to halt their logging operations due to uncertain security and continued threats from locals. Tony said the government should establish a profit-sharing mechanism in which timber companies would distribute a share of their revenue to local residents in return for their contribution to the companies' operations. Agus, however, insisted the existing regulations were fine and that his office had not received any complaints from foreign investors. He also said the government's policy was to protect the welfare of residents living near plantations and forestry estates. Foreign investment projects must be able to bring benefits to the locals, Agus said.
Investment is important, but people's welfare is much more important.
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