Criticism over Regulation for Integrated Cellular Towers
Wednesday, 19 March, 2008 | 17:14 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta: There has been criticism about the issuing of a ministerial regulation about integrated cellular towers, especially about international investment limitations.

Telecommunications expert Mas Wigrantoro Roes Setadi, who is also Chairman of the Telecommunications Society, said he considers that the Communication and Information Minister acted beyond his authority.

“Does the minister have the authority to limit the Negative Investment List (DNI) in this industry?” Mas Wigrantoro said to Tempo yesterday (18/3) in Jakarta.

He said he considered this should in fact be managed by the Public Works Minister or the Industry Minister.

As regards investment, Mas Wigrantoro said he thought it would be better if this was handled by the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM).

Communication and Information Minister, Mohammad Nuh, has issued a ministerial regulation about integrated cellular towers.

He is convinced that this policy is one way to support efficiency in the telecommunication business.

“It is effective as from today and there will be a two year transitional period”, said Minister Nuh at the parliamentary building.

Guntur S. Siboro, Marketing Director of PT Indosat, stated that the implementation of this regulation would not be easy, particularly as regards existing towers.

The capability of each tower is also different, especially when every operator has at least three service licenses.

Potential international investors have also been asking about this new regulation.

Gatot S. Dewa Broto, Spokesperson for the Post and Telecommunications Directorate General, said that he has been telephoned by international investors from different countries.

“They are from Malaysia, Japan, and Korea,” he said.

Dian Yuliastuti