The vendors' former complex, Computer City, was one of four computer and electronics centers housed in Jakarta's Chinatown, known as Glodok, that were destroyed in May's convulsion. Even today, the gutted and charred remains of the malls are physical and psychological barriers to a re-emergence of commerce. Spurred by continued consumer demand, New Computer City was built in the basement of an upscale mall in southern Glodok. The center's re-emergence follows a series of meetings with Indonesia's top leaders, including President Habibie and new Jakarta military commander Maj. Gen. Djadja Suparman.
Funding is scarce, but vendors say they are scraping by.
A meeting last week between Gen. Suparman and six leaders of Glodok's computer and electronics industry was key in allaying at least some of the shopowners' fears. He pledged renewed efforts by the military to provide assistance, and offered his home and mobile-phone numbers in case emergencies arise. Still, any sign that the new military leadership is willing to help cheered the shop owners, many of whom are convinced that Jakarta troops acquiesced, or even took part in May's unrest. Financial assistance also has been essential in getting New Computer City up and running. So far, the opening is being judged a success.