JAKARTA, Dec. 13 (Xinhuanet) -- Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Monday ordered relevant authorities to intensify security, especially in some trouble-ridden areas, during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.

    "The president has ordered his aides to anticipate security problems in such cities as Jakarta, Medan, Surabaya and Makassar,"Cabinet Secretary Sudi Silalahi said.

    The president gave the order during his meeting with Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Widodo AS and Police chief Gen. Da'i Bachtiar earlier in the day, the official news agency Antara reported.

    The two briefed the president on the latest security situation in Palu, capital of Central Sulawesi province, following the bombing and shooting in two churches in the city on Sunday night.

    Sudi said the police must increase its forces and intensify security operations in anticipation of terrorist attacks in Palu and other troubled cities across the country.

    During the meeting, Da'i said the police have been preparing anoperation to secure the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Enditem