"The rupiah's exchange value at 12,000 (to the dollar) is still realistic," Kalla said.
He said the currency's recent weakness provides a benefit to exporters who can earn better margins when they convert foreign currency earnings, and thus make up for some easing in export demand.
"Exporters are benefiting at this level. It is normal, and it is stable. The government is comfortable with 12,000. The whole world overall is undergoing turmoil...so that level is not a problem," Kalla told reporters.
He hopes that Bank Indonesia will "align" its interest rates "with the situation and conditions at present" in world markets.
Kalla didn't elaborate on that statement, but it seemed to be a reiteration of comments he made several days ago, in which he had indicated a preference for loosening monetary policy.
Bank Indonesia's benchmark rate is now 9.50%.
-By Jakarta Bureau, Dow Jones Newswires; 62 21 3983 1277; Reuben.Carder@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
November 28, 2008 01:46 ET (06:46 GMT)
Publié le 28 novembre 2008 Copyright © 2008 Dowjones





