Reach out
The week's news at a glance.
Jakarta
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono tried a new tack in participatory government this week, giving out his cell phone number to the public. “If you think government officials don’t care, never come to you, and your problems are left unsettled, my cellular phone is active 24 hours a day,” the president announced. But within a day, more than 3,000 calls had swamped his line, rendering it inactive. A government spokesman said the president would consider setting up more lines and having them manned by aides. Callers to an Indonesian talk show, though, suggested an e-mail address might be more convenient.
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
5 low ratings cartoons about the Late Show cancellation
Cartoons Artists take on early warning signs, the Gen Z stare, and more
-
Connie Francis: Superstar of the early 1960s pop scene
In the Spotlight The 'Pretty Little Baby' and 'Stupid Cupid' singer has died aged 87
-
Crossword: July 26, 2025
The Week's daily crossword puzzle