Travel Advisory: Indonesia (Maluku area, Aceh, West Timor, Central Kalimantan, Irian Jaya) and East Timor

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

The situation in Indonesia is rather unsettled. Although there are security concerns in some provinces, many areas of Indonesia are still safe for travel.

The capital, Jakarta, is generally calm and all services there are operating normally, though political demonstrations which can become violent are occurring more frequently. In Jakarta and other larger cities, travellers should follow the general security advice given further on.

Bali and Lombok are calm and tourist services are operating normally. Travellers in the Mt Rinjani area of Lombok should be aware of criminal activity which has targeted tourists in the past.

The situation in the Maluku Islands is unstable and dangerous due to ongoing communal conflict, particularly in the south around Ambon and in the north around Halmahera. We advise against non-essential travel to this area.

We also advise against non-essential travel to Aceh on the northern tip of Sumatra. Other parts of Sumatra are safe for travel.

The situation in West Timor is very volatile following the killing of UNHCR staff by a pro-integration mob on 6 September 2000, and particularly dangerous in areas near refugee camps and the border region with East Timor. New Zealanders are advised not to travel to West Timor.

There has been serious inter-communal violence in Central Kalimantan province on the island of Borneo. We advise New Zealanders not to travel to Central Kalimantan. Care should also be taken when planning travel to other parts of Kalimantan.

There is a separatist movement in Irian Jaya (or West Papua) where there have been occasional civil disturbances, and tensions appear to be increasing. Care should be taken if travelling there.

As when travelling anywhere in the world, travellers should take prudent precautions to avoid problems. Maintain a high level of personal security awareness and keep yourself well informed of developments in the areas you plan to visit by monitoring the media. With the difficult economic and political situation in Indonesia, there is an increasing risk of crime and political violence. Review the security where you are staying, keep the doors locked and windows secure both at home and in the car. Keep a low profile and avoid behaviour that might provoke or offend local sensitivities. Hire taxis only from reputable firms, preferably booked by phone; avoid travelling alone at night; and be vigilant of pick pockets and con artists. Avoid large gatherings. If trouble begins in the street, move away quickly and stay indoors.

New Zealand citizens in Indonesia are encouraged to register with the New Zealand Embassy. To register the Embassy can be contacted on:

telephone: 62-21 570 9460

fax: 62-21 570 9457

e-mail: nzembjak@cbn.net.id

East Timor

The situation is now peaceful. However, we advise against non-essential travel to East Timor, owing to the lack of infrastructure and services.

Please note: While every care has been taken in preparing these travel advisories, neither the New Zealand Government nor its agents and employees can accept liability for any loss or damage arising in respect of any statement contained therein.

For further enquiries contact:

Consular Division

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Stafford House 38-42

The Terrace, Wellington

Tel 64-4 494-8500

Fax 64-4 494-8506

E-mail: cons@mft.govt.nz