In this edition, we invite our readers to broaden their understanding of the multi-dimensional character of poverty in Indonesia as well as relating some of the efforts to engage in more effective poverty reduction.

The Focus On column broadens the definition of poverty to include dimensions other than income and expenditure, for example good health, adequate education, the ability to sustain shocks, participation in community activities and the capacity to secure a voice in the political field. The importance of access to adequate education as part of this new definition is highlighted by our guest columnist, Mayling Oey-Gardiner, who points out that Indonesia is failing to provide education for the poor at a level beyond primary school. This is cause for concern considering that education is one of the most effective tools for breaking the cycle of poverty.

To further refine our understanding of poverty, SMERU researchers have carried out a study enabling a distinction to be drawn between chronic and transient poverty. The results, presented in the And the Data Says column, have important policy implications, as different poverty reduction policies must be applied to each category. This edition also presents the findings of a SMERU survey of regional trade deregulation revealing the positive impact on the poor of the removal of various levies on small agricultural producers.

Finally, we report briefly on the establishment of a Coordinating Board for the Alleviation of Poverty by the Government of Indonesia. It is hoped that by mediating between the various sectoral poverty reduction programs, this new body will encourage coherent efforts to reduce poverty throughout the country