BALI TRAVEL NEWSPAPERS by Bali Travel Newspaper

”THK Awa rd the ca s & re A fo r

t of Bali, piri e s ture. th o f n a n

n” is focuss tatio in i d re ple and conserv g on c c eo ati o p

Vol. II, No. 40  August 25 - September 10 , 2012

IDR 4,000

ISSN 2252-3537

Publisher : Wisnu Wardana Address : Jl. Melati 43 Denpasar, Bali-Indonesia Phone/fax (0361) 227610 Email : info@www-balitravelnews.com Licence/SIUPK : 0094 / 22-09 / PK / I / 2011 ISSN : 2252-3537

More Info See Page II

COVER STORY

No. 40 l August 25 - September 10, 2012

Temple Ceremonies in Bali Hindus in Bali apply strict rules regarding temples and ceremonies. These rules mainly concern dress requirements and conditions such as menstruation or open wounds, bringing food into the temple, being physically or mentally ill. Being in a state of mourning (for the Balinese this lasts 42 days), and having given birth within the past 42 days. Other rules need to be observed or asked for, especially during festivals. Simple guidance when attending a Temple ceremony l Always wear a sarong or sash l Do not walk in front of people when they are praying l Do not flash or point your camera at the priest’s face l Never sit higher than the priest or the offerings l During cremation ceremonies do not get in the way of attendees, however great that photo might be l Women are not allowed to enter temples during their menstruation. v BTNewspaper/*/net

One of Bali’s major festivals celebrates the return of Balinese gods and ancestors to Bali. For ten days, Balinese families will entertain and welcome with prayers and offerings, along with ceremonies to cleanse and balance the inner and outer energy of the island. Galungan lasts for ten days and features, among other things, barong dancing from temple to temple in the village. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The origin of Galungan is a mystery, but essentially this is the beginning of the week in which the gods and ancestors descend to earth, and good triumphs over evil. The holiday is specialized by the fitting of ‘penjor’, a tall bamboo pole splendidly decorated with woven young coconut leaves, fruit, cakes and flowers, on the right side of every house entrance. People are attired in their finest clothes and jewels this day. Preparations The preparations for Galungan begin several days before the actual feast day. Three days before Galungan (Sunday, 26/8), “Penyekeban”: families begin their preparations for Galungan. “Penyekeban” literally means “the day to cover up “, as this is the day when green bananas are covered up in huge clay pots to speed their ripening. Two days before Galungan (Monday, 27/8), “Penyajan” marks a time of introspection for Balinese, and more prosaically, a time to make the Balinese cakes known as jaja. These colored cakes made of fried rice dough are used in offerings and are also eaten specially on Galungan. This time of the year finds a glut of jaja in every village market. A day before Galungan (Tuesday, 28/8), “Penampahan” or slaughter day - Balinese slaughter the sacrificial

animals that will go into the temple or altar offerings. Galungan is marked by the sudden surplus of traditional Balinese food, like lawar (a spicy pork and coconut sauce dish) and satay. On Galungan day itself (Wednesday, 29/8), Balinese devotees pray at the temples and make their offerings to the spirits. Women are seen carrying the offerings on their heads, while men bring palm fronds. The Kuningan Ceremony This festival is held ten days (Saturday, 8/9), after the Galungan Festival, signifying the closing of the New Year holiday. On this day special offerings made of yellow rice and special dishes are offered, while every family compound and temple looks amazing with ornaments. Believed to be the ascendant day of ancestral holy spirits and deities back to heaven. v BTNewspaper/net/*

PROFILE

Chieko Maeda: “I Love Bali” N

Chief Editor : Wisnu Wardana; Publicist: Jan Hendrik Peters, KG. Dharma Putra, Journalists/ contributors: Torsten Thierbach, Gung Man, Krisna; Marketing : Made Yudha ; Secretariate : Dewi ; Address : Jl. Melati 43 Denpasar, Bali-Indonesia ; Phone/ fax: (0361) 227610 Email : info@ www-balitravelnews.com ; Jakarta : Bambang Hermawan, Villa Pamulang Mas, Blok C9/4, Pamulang, Tangerang Selatan ; Yogyakarta : Titah Pratyaksa (083 1190 19410); Bank : BPD Bali KCP. Kamboja No. 0370115000510 A/N Biro Promosi & Pengembangan Pariwisata Budaya.

She can speak Indonesian fairly well although her Japanese dialect remains apparent. It is natural because she is indeed from the Sakura country or Japan. Chieko Maeda, it is the name introduced by the solid-bodied woman to Bali Travel Newspaper. When met on Friday night (Jul 27) in Satrya Art House on Jalan Veteran, Denpasar, Chieko looked simple. It coincided with the implementation of the International Photo Exhibition, where she was one of the participants. This multi-talented woman has stayed in Bali since 2001. So, why does she linger to stay on this island? “I am journalist and happen to be posted in Bali,” she explained when the question was asked to her. Chieko worked for a magazine in the country dubbed as the Rising Sun. She further explained about the area of her news coverage including Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan, and of course her own country, namely Japan. On many occasions, Chieko also acted as a coordinator of photographic shooting. Besides, she also had work experience in the field of architecture and a tour conductor in Japan. Aside from being a writer, of course, she was also proficient in the field of photography.

Her shoots were slightly different from the other photographers whose works exhibited on that occasion. For instance, her work entitled Keris featuring a row of people using keris dagger in the back was snapped from the back side, so that it looked different. Chieko also showcased the work entitled Fresh On. By all means, it could be guessed where the object highlighted was the water spots on the leaf. She made it without capturing the contour of the leaf itself. At first glance, the photo illustrated the point of water on a piece of green medium. The picture looked like a painting and it was one of the creativities of Chieko. She has been working as a contributor of photo and news to a tourism information magazine in Japan since 2008. The areas of her work covered several countries. However, she admitted to send more news to Japan highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of Bali as one of the world tourist destinations. “I love Bali, especially look at local villages inhabited by native population of Bali that still preserves their traditional scent,” she said. Then, it is not an exaggeration to say if Chieko herself had a mission to introduce

more about Bali tourism especially in Japan. She graduated from Toyama Art and Craft College in Architecture Department (1996). Armed with a wealth of experience, she would explore more about Bali through journalistic profession and then published it through the medium where she worked. v BTNewspaper/I Made Surita

AROUND BALI

No. 40 l August 25 - September 10, 2012

III

Free Trip to Paris It’s that time of the year when booking a holiday with Accor Hotels becomes more affordable and irresistible. With the upcoming “Fly Me To Paris” regional promotional campaign, Accor Hotels in Bali-Lombok, Malaysia and Singapore are giving away a free holiday to the romantic city of Paris in France for two lucky winners inclusive of return flight on Garuda Indonesia or KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and a 4 days / 3 nights’ accommodation in an Accor hotel. That’s not all; two lucky winners on a monthly basis also have a chance to win the hottest electronic gadgets such as Samsung Galaxy SIII, IPad3 and free stay in Accor Hotels in the 3 countries. Holidaymakers to Bali and Lombok now have more reasons to kick back and relax in Kuta, Legian, Lombok, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, or Tanjung Benoa with the free airport transfers, breakfast and a dinner

for two included with two nights booked on this promotion. With six hotel brands from the upscale Pullman and MGallery to the economy ibis to choose from, and room options ranging from deluxe rooms to villas and suites, planning a family holiday or a romantic escape for two has never been easier. Guests booking into our Malaysia hotels can look forward to a 25% saving on their room packaged with free breakfast, 24-hour WiFi access and a RM50 F&B voucher when you spent above RM100 or a Spa voucher during your stay. Travelers have a choice of location from Kuala Lumpur to Putrajaya and Kuching, Sarawak whether it is for business or leisure. Accor guests staying in our Singapore hotels can take advantage of the free city tour to visit popular tourist attractions in the garden city. With most of our hotels located in convenient proximity to shopping

zones such as Orchard Road and Bugis Junction near Bencoolen street, lifestyle and entertainment facilities in Clarke Quay, Novena, the Katong/ East Coast areas, mixing business with leisure in the Lion City taking advantage of the 24-hour WiFi access and breakfast included just became more enticing. Travellers can choose from any of 20 participating hotels in Bali and Lombok, Malaysia and Singapore offering from city to leisure destinations. Further, Le Club Accorhotels and Accor Advantage Plus members booking the “Fly Me to Paris” promotion will be eligible for triple points on stays before 31 December 2012, and double chances at the lucky draw. These hot deals are available for online booking at www.accorhotels. com/flymetoparis or through Accor call centre from August 1 until December 31, 2012 for stays until 31 January 2013. v BTNewspaper/PR

Spirit of Independence Day M e l i á Bali celebrated Indonesia’s 67 th Independence Day with a flag-raising ceremony at the main entrance in front of the lobby area. The flag-raising ceremony was participated by the management and staff of the resort. In conjunction with this celebration, the Resort organized a family fun walk on Sunday August 12th, Breast Cancer Seminar on Tuesday August 14th and Blood Donation on Thursday August 16th. This activity highlights the resort’s commitment to commemorate the inde-

pendence of Republic Indonesia 67 years ago. As a leading resort Meliá Bali is proud to lead by example committed to supporting their country. v BTNewspaper/PR

Bali Luna, the New Fine Dining Restaurant “Bali Luna” as one of Aston Bali Beach Resort & Spa dining restaurant has now become an International Fine Dining Restaurant. The re-Opening took place on Thursday (9/8) and was attend by the invitees from media, travel agent and Archipelago International. The re-Opening started with a cocktail party continued with the officially ribbon cutting to remark the re-Opening and press conference continued with a Chef Table. The refurbishment commenced on 23rd April 2012 and opened on 9th August 2012. Bali Luna with 87 seats capacity and daily service from 11.00 am until 10.30 pm to serve and welcom-

ing valued guests both hotel and outside guests. Bali Luna serves an extensive menu from around the world prepared by the Executive Chef, Putu Surya Eka and selection of best wine local and international is a foot away to be chosen directly in the new wine cellar. Bali Luna has facility of free Wi-FI and new upcoming kids playground near the restaurant. While parents enjoy their fine dining, children can play in the kids playground. Bali Luna is surrounded with three breathtaking views which are the beautiful lagoon pool, lush garden and white sand beach of Tanjung Benoa. v BTNewspaper/PR Ms. Kertawidyawati, Executive Assistant Manager F&B Aston Bali, Mr. Bambang Trisolo, Financial Controller Aston Bali, Mr. Heru Purwono, Vice President Finance Archipelago International, Mr. Winston Hanes, Regional General Manager Archipelago International Bali Region, cutting the ribbon to officially remark the Re-Opening of Bali Luna, witnesses by media and travel agent as invitees.

CSR of Grand Istana Rama at Carangsari Village Grand Istana Rama organized its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity precisely at Bedauh Hamlet, Carangsari Village, Petang Subdistrict, Badung, Thursday (Aug 9). The activity was handled in person by the General Manager of Grand Istana Rama, Andi Ananto, together with Marketing Communication Officer, Dinna Indah and Dhimas. The material provided was in the form of English Course for dozens of children who were still studying in elementary and junior high schools. They enthusiastically paid attention to the lesson given by a team of Grand Istana Rama. According to Andi Ananto, children of the village were smart. They could understand quickly the English language materials pro-

vided. “I am very happy to teach children who want to learn English considering they live at village. But, it is not disappointed and in fact the children here are smart. Hopefully, they will become useful children,” he said when met after ending the lesson. v BTNewspaper/ Ariek PW

Cultural Dinner on Full Moon Every full moon, make your time to have a dinner with someone special while luxuriating in a traditional Kecak Dance and Rama Sita ballet on Tequila Bar, Grand Istana Rama, Kuta. “As one of the oldest hotels in Kuta, we can now present traditional arts without diminishing the significance of Balinese art,” said Dinna Indah, Marketing Communication Officer of Grand Istana Rama. v BTNewspaper/Krisna

M s . J u l i a Wi d j a j a , Executive Assistant Manager, Ms. Kertawidyawati, Executive Assistant Manager F&B, and Chef Putu Surya Eka as Executive Chef, give brief explanation about the Re-Opening of Bali Luna at the press conference.

Care

pest control

bayer chemichal & natural product

CV. AGUNG SENTRA TIRTA MAS

Jln. Raya Semer, Gg. Intan II No. 126 Kerobokan-Kuta Utara 80361 Bali Tlp. 0361 - 2737954, mobile. 085239800027 - 08123992818 e-mail : info@care-pestcontrol.com, website : www.care-pestcontrol.com

Pest control Rodent control Termite control Cleaning service

Cabang Lombok : Jl. Wr. Supratman Gg. III No. 7 Mataram Telp. 0370-6823403, Mobile. 087864034265

S12-VI.39-12

FOOD & BEVERAGE

No. 40 l August 25 - September 10, 2012

Bali Palms Resort:

“Bazaar and Entertainment on August 17, 2012” In conjunction with the commemoration of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia, Bali Palms Resort located in Candidasa, Karangasem, held a bazaar as well as entertainment activity for visitors. The event held in the parking lot in front of Bali Palms Resort invited all traders from the surrounding community to peddle there. The Bazaar and Entertainment was similar to a night market in general presenting musical performance staged by several singers. They brought popular songs like dangdut songs and other interesting songs. Merchandise on sale was diverse ranging from food, drink and various souvenirs. Among them, there were chicken meatballs, pork meatballs, vegetable rice cake and rice mixed with sweet potatoes known as sweet potatoes rice along with its

side dishes. Similarly, there were also soft drink, clothing and several interesting souvenirs. Visitors were not only from the surrounding community, but also people from outside the village and even the in-house guests of the hotels also took advantage of such a rare event. Not to forget, the entire management and staff of the Bali Palms Resort and their families also attended the event. General Manager of Bali Palms Resort, Putu Tirta Yasa, said such an event aimed to commemorate the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia falling on August 17, 2012. The event commenced at 6:00 p.m. and ended at 10:00 p.m. local time. “In the future, we will improve the similar event so that all people can feel the atmosphere of the Bazaar and Entertainment,” added Mr. Putu. v BTNewspaper/AriekPW

Eat to Help Others! The Bali Dynasty Resort Charity effort will hold it’s ever popular promotion “Dine out to Educate a Child” in conjunction with its’ Golden Lotus Chinese Restaurant commencing on the 1st August for a 3 month period. With the monies raised from guests; the Charity Effort has been supporting the education of children in a small hamlet in North Eastern Bali for over 12 years now in conjunction with the East Bali Poverty Project with the long term goal of self-sustainability. During the three month promotional period from August to October guests are invited to dine from the a la carte menu in Golden Lotus at either lunch or dinner when 5% of the revenue will be donated to the charity project to help the poor children of Bali. Diners will be encouraged to support this initiative through a dining card which they will have stamped on each visit to the restaurant. Each completed dining card (ie. 6 visits) will be entered into a prize draw to win the Grand Prize of a return trip for two people to Singapore sponsored by Qatar Airways, including two nights accommodation at the Orchard Parade Hotel in Singapore.

All completed cards will be eligible to receive a complimentary ‘Chopstick’ Membership which provides many dining privileges when dining in the Golden Lotus Restaurant. Other prizes will include stays at the Bali Dynasty Resort and vouchers for meals in the hotels’ restaurants. The Golden Lotus Chinese Restaurant has received many accolades and is considered by many as Bali’s best Chinese Restaurant. The Golden Lotus is open 6 days a week for Lunch from 11.30am to 2.30pm and for Dinner from 6pm to 10pm. On Mondays the restaurant is closed. An extensive Dim Sum a la Carte menu is available on weekdays whilst on Sundays a special all you can eat Dim Sum Buffet is available from 10am – 2.30pm for only Rp.90,000 nett*. For more information on the Golden Lotus please visit: www.balidynasty.com/gl. v BTNewspaper/PR/*

K12-VI.37-12

BALI DISTRIBUTOR: PT. DELTA SATRIA DEWATA Jl. Imam Bonjol 226 A - Denpasar Email : marketingdenpasar@aio.co.id.

K12-IV.3-11

PT. AMANAH PRIMA INDONESIA Bali Principal : 0361 966 7600 K12-VI.10-11

ZLATOGOR

THE BEST VODKA FROM UKRAINE The Zlatogor soft Vodka is traditional Ukraine Vodka, loaded with a spicy, clean aroma, soft, slightly sweet in flavour, smoth with a medium to full weight. And made with a high quality alcohol & specially treated water from artesian that been used in production of medicinal mineral water. Zlatogor brand now has stock available in Bali Wein.

Distributor in Bali

BALI WEIN

Jl. Gunung Tangkuban Perahu No.238 XY, Br.Tegal Buah, Padang Sambian Klod - Denpasar - Bali. Ph. 0361-2748572, Fax. 0361-410200 K12-V.4-11

K12-I.16-12

AROUND BALI

No. 40 l August 25 - September 10, 2012

Activities at Bali Mandira

Romantic Dinner

Try a romantic dinner at Bali Mandira with mandira hospitality. This hotel situated on Legian’s legendary sunset beach and within walking distance to Kuta and Seminyak, the 191-room resort is spaciously set within a romantic landscaped garden, providing guests with comfortable cottage style hideaway accommodation. The resort offers world class spa & restaurants facilities and is famous for the warm balinese hospitality. v BTNewspaper/PR

K12-V.35-12

K12-I.12-12

BALI PALMS RESORT Hotel, Apartements & Villas

CANDIDASA, AMLAPURA 80851 BALI-INDONESIA TELEPHONE : +62 363 42191, 42192, 42193 FAX: +62 363 42194 EMAIL : info@balipalmsresort.com Website : www.Balipalmsresort.com

Dusun Samuh, Candidasa – Amlapura 80851 Bali – Indonesia Phone : +62 363 41829 (Hunting) / Fax : +62 363 41622 / 41003 Email : reservations@balishangrila.net / www.balishangrila.net K12-II.1-11

K12-I.18-12

AROUND BALI & BEYOND

No. 40 l August 25 - September 10, 2012

From L-R: Petrus I Made Damaianto (FNPF Administration); Sankarsana Satria (Front Office Manager) and Romy Anggara (Executive Assistant Manager)

Maya Ubud Support Children Painting Competition

K12-III.26-12

Friends of the National Parks Foundation (FNPF) is an Indonesian not-for-profit organization that creates and runs communitybased conservation programs that respect the interdependence of wildlife, habitat and local communities. Some FNPF programs include the Bali Starling conservation project on Nusa Penida, the relocation of dozens of Orangutans to safety from the palm oil plantations to Tanjung Puting National Park and Lamandau River Wildlife Reserve, and direct programs to improve local community wellbeing (education scholarships, agro-forestry, eco-tourism) to motivate & mobilize the communities to protect wildlife, restore habitat, and support

the conservation work. Since 2008 Maya Ubud Resort and Spa has continually supported FNPF programs on Nusa Penida, not only with its conservation programs, but also in their yearly children’s painting competition event, held each year to celebrate the Indonesia Independence Day on August 17. This competition involves ten junior and five senior high school students on the island of Nusa Penida. The purpose of this program is to create awareness for future generations of the importance of preserving the environment and preventing the spreading of natural and wildlife destruction. v BTNewspaper/PR

Maya Ubud Resort & Spa Sustainable Action

Soft Opening of Maestro Bar Lounge & Carlos Ristorante Being centrally located from all surrounding areas of Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Seminya, Sanur and especially just next to the Airport, Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas is just a perfect place for those wishing to escape from their busy time and crowded area, the remaining relax area of Tuban at the southernmost part of Kuta. The growing demand as a stop and relaxing resort, Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas just completed a full renovation facilities to spoil their guests even more: Maestro Bar & Lounge and Carlos Ristorante. Formerly was the Cellar Pub, the new Maestro Bar & Lounge is furnished with the state of the art Dance Floor, confortable sofas, modern design Bar counter, and 2 private rooms, hightech sound system and DJ corner desk. The total facilities can accommodate an 80 persons party. Upper floor is the elegant Carlos Ristorante,

with a higher floor allows guests to enjoy the stunning Indian Ocean while they enjoy their drink or the tasty Italian food. Of course the outside wooden extension is best to those wishing to relax waiting the sunset while enjoy their cocktails. Aug.10, 2012 was the Soft Opening of both facilities, attended by 150 invitees and Local and National Media. Witnessed by Ahmad Dhani, Indonesian famous Artist and happen to be the Commissioner of Maestro Bar & Lounge, the soft opening was lead by Mr. Amir Rohani, The Hotel Division Head of PT.Patra Jasa, together with Mr. Nyoman Wiryanata, The General Manager of Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas. Wishing all the great success to Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas, we hope this newly opened Bali Entertainment spot can become one more new product Bali has to offer to the world. v BTNewspaper/PR

Monday (6/8) Maya Ubud Resort and Spa in its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program continue to assist the “Seeds of Hope Orphanage” in Dalung. Regularly we support a number of orphanages and foundations on the island by donating used towels, bed linen, uniforms, books, magazines, china & glassware that is no longer suitable for hotel operation, but still quite serviceable at the same time we deliver contributions from guests who support hotel’s CSR program by donating various goods and equipment that is useful to the orphanages and foundations operation. At Maya Ubud Resort and Spa we realized that we need to focus on helping the less fortunate and contribute to society. Any

company should realize that it has a responsibility to contribute in some form of another to the betterment of the society in which it operates and to ensure it does not exploit the local community nor degrade or destroy the natural resources and environment. v BTNewspaper/PR

Melia Benoa Hotel

Organize an Exorcism Rite and Temple Anniversary Coinciding with the full moon of the second month (sasih karo) in Balinese calendar, Thursday (Aug 2), Melia Benoa Hotel organized a piodalan (temple anniversary) in the hotel temple and pecaruan (exorcism rite) in the hotel area. Both rituals were officiated over by a high priest namely Ida Pedanda from Griya Telaga Sanur. The ritual was begun at 10:00 a.m. local time and lasted until late afternoon. It was attended by all the staff, leadership and management of Melia Benoa Hotel. v BTNewspaper/PR

Mecaru Ceremony at Novotel Bali Benoa On Wednesday (25/7), Novotel Bali Benoa hosted a traditional Balinese Mecaru ceremony. Mecaru is intended to balance human and nature by satisfying Bhuta (evil spirits) as Balinese people believe that there should be a harmony between Sekala (visible world) and Niskala (invisible world).

Offerings made of flowers, food and traditional drinks

During the event, a Gamelan orchestra from hotel staff accompanyed the procession lead by a Holy Hindu Priest from Klungkung regency. Offerings contained flowers, food (ginger, onion, raw meat), as well as traditional alcoholic beverage (Arak) served to please the evil spirits. After Bhuta is pleased, there will be only peace remaining. This important ceremony was held after a series of renovation projects done in some major areas of the resort’s property. Up to 2012, Novotel Bali Benoa has renovated its guest rooms, Uluwatu restaurant, Nanas Bar and has upgraded the tranquil Nirwana swimming pool. The resort’s General Manager, Mr. Alexander Poindl respectfully

Mecaru Procession at Novotel Bali Benoa

mentioned that it is necessary to remember why Bali is still one of the world’s island destinations. The people of Bali are maintaining and living the local culture and tradition, this is what guests all over the world

Balinese prayer as a symbol that blessing is received

are looking for in Bali. Novotel Bali Benoa is located at the edge of Nusa Dua, overlooking the golden sands of Tanjung Benoa beach. The resort has been created using traditional Balinese architec-

ture and spreads out on 3 hectares of tropical landscape. The hotel is holding the highest level from Tri Hita Karana Award, the Emerald Trophy for respecting Balinese traditions and values. v BTNewspaper/PR

GREEN CORNER

No. 40 l August 25 - September 10, 2012

VII

The Environmental Threat to Free Trade By Jeff Bennet *) It is a well-established fact that trade makes the people involved better off, as willing buyers and sellers come together with the goal of improving their well-being. Yet the process of trade — particularly international trade — is increasingly challenged by environmental interests. Green group lobbying and protests consistently hamper efforts to reduce impediments to trade in forums such as the WTO. The two primary concerns of environmental interests are that: first, as the volume of trade grows, more scarce natural resources are being used. And, second, that with more trade and its associated increases in economic growth and wealth comes increased environmental harm. One example of environmental interests challenging the expansion of trade involves timber harvested from tropical forests in Indonesia and the Amazon. The main concern is deforestation, which is associated with environmental degradation, including biodiversity loss and waterway siltation. In response to political pressure exerted by environmental groups such as Greenpeace, developed countries have introduced policies to restrict trade in tim-

ber, for example by requiring timber to be ‘certified’ as being produced ‘sustainably’ before it can be offered for sale. Though these certification schemes may be intuitively appealing, deeper analysis reveals that their application may be inherently damaging to society’s well-being. Because certification schemes effectively act as ‘gate-keepers’ to market access, the ability to gain certification becomes valuable to suppliers. In this context, who sets the certification standards and what the content of those standards are, achieves considerable significance. These matters often become the subject of lobbying activity, and so the certification process delivers outcomes determined by relative political influence and gives no guarantee of delivering socially desirable outcomes. For those aspiring suppliers who do not pass the certification test, the expenses of undertaking the test are incurred without return. And the costs of submitting to the test must be paid by producers whose activities are already regulated by strong local authorities. All of this certification activity involves the creation of a whole new industry comprising both public sector regulators and private sector parties (such as inspectors and consultants). Ironically, that means the

use of more scarce resources that could have been used in other activities that society finds valuable. And a whole new variety of corruption has been created as potential suppliers seek ways of achieving access to the restricted market. It is not only environmental interests that are keen to limit trade in timber: the industry certifiers and their associated bureaucracies rely on imposing this type of limitations to secure their own livelihoods and so make easy bedfellows for the greens. But the coalition in favour of restrictions extends further. Certified timber suppliers can benefit from the restrictions to industry entry despite the costs associated with the process because certification ensures reduced competition and can increase the prices of timber. There is an element of monopoly associated with certification schemes. Often it is timber suppliers from developed nations who are most stridently in favour of certification because it reduces the competition they face from developing countries where local environmental regulations are weaker. The anti-trade coalition between the timber industry and environmentalist groups is reminiscent of the situation that emerged during the prohibition period in the US, when the anti-alcohol movement

Palace in Bali

Puri Ageng Blahbatuh A Royal Palace is situated in the north east corner of the main crossroads of Blahbatuh and Bona villages Gianyar, Bali. Originally known as the ‘Orchid Palace’ the king used to keep several orchids and enter them into competitions, thus winning second place with them at a competition in Singapore in the 1970’s. Nowadays, as time has passed the orchids are no more, however the palace is still well worth a visit. The palace was originally built around the years 1570-1600 of the Caka calendar and was founded by the dynasty of King I Gusti Ngurah Jelantik VIII. The sprawling complex measures around four hectares. Walk around the grounds of the palace

without the intrusion of too many tourists. Members of the family who are also residents of the palace are normally walking around and you never know you may be lucky enough to be shown around by the King of Blahbatuh himself. There are some beautiful features including unique temple artwork, a peaceful meditation temple surrounded by waters and some stunnning wood furniture. You may also see ladies making traditional rugs using the loom. Want to see and have a visit to the Palace in Bali? Please come to the address - Jalan Wisma Udayana 2, Blahbatuh, Gianyar, Bali. Tel - +62 361 7878960. v BTNewspaper/PR/ Bali Traveller Article

was effectively supported by those who made fortunes from the sale of illegal liquor. ‘Baptists’ and ‘bootleggers’ made somewhat unexpected partners in the pursuit of a shared objective — the continuation of prohibition. Forest certification schemes and other environmental barriers to trade reduce society’s well-being by forcing up prices and imposing additional regulatory compliance and administration costs. Furthermore, the effectiveness of certification schemes as a means to achieve environmental goals is limited by the disconnect between the policy measure and the target. Rather than promoting certification schemes that are vulnerable to political and commercial misuse, ‘green’ interests in developed countries should offer assistance to developing country agencies responsible for enacting and enforcing specific, targeted local environmental management policies. An even more direct approach would be for green groups in developed nations to raise funds from individual and corporate donors to pay people in the developing world to provide environmental services from their forests instead of timber. *) Jeff Bennet is Professor of Environmental Management at the Crawford School of Public Policy

VIII

SPORT & SPA

No. 40 l August 25 - September 10, 2012

Ashoka Spa Attracts a New Niche Bali Dynasty Resort is proud to announce the opening of their New Ashoka Spa. The new 600 square meter spa was recently completed following an investment of over 5 billion rupiah and is a complete mind and body wellness experience, providing oversized private double and single air-conditioned or non air conditioned treatment rooms incorporating sixteen massage beds and two saunas. Designed with gender neutral décor, the spa attracts a 50% male and 50% female clientele from both in and outside the resort. “Our Spa menu is designed with the modern family in mind; romantic spa packages for couples, kids massages, mother and daughter packages as well as a specific male menu catering to the modern man who is more and more looking for a past time to keep their minds off work and hence the immense growth in popularity from men in using the spa services” said Mila, the Ashoka Spa Manager.

There are a choice of 20 face and body spa-therapies on the menu for him and her which focus on product benefits. The offers range from beautiful skin-specific facials to advanced anti-ageing facials, plus a selection of detoxifying and body sculpting treatments and soothing anti-stress massages. Specifically designed for men are the Time For Men skin

facials to reduce skin irritations, blemishes and reduce wrinkles. A wide range of treatments are on offer, from the traditional Balinese massages to Ashoka’s Signature Massage, the perfect treatment to diminish the effect of jet lag. As well unique treatments specially created

for Him and a massage specially created for kids is offered. In addition the therapists are trained in Thai, Aromatherapy and Reflexology therapies. To compliment the massages an assortment of contemporary beauty treatments are available including hour long facials, manicures and pedicures. v BTNewspaper/PR K12-I.13-12

Simple and FestiveCelebration! Inna Grand Bali Beach, Sanur, Bali celebrated the 67th Indonesian Independence Day together with the opening of the hotel anniversary at the hotel’s Pendawa Beach on Friday (17/8). General Manager of Inna Grand Bali Beach, Mr. Sugeng Pramono declared the celebration activities started after the employees of the hotel together with its related partners, carried out a joint flag-raising ceremony in front of the hotel lobby. Enliven the festive day of the event held at Pendawa Beach of the hotel which involves not only the hotel guests with the employees of Inna Grand Bali Beach, also a lively community with Fun Games: a variety of traditional games such as a traditional box “nyuun keben”, sack race, climbing Pedanan Tree and much more. The hotel employees performed the Balinese traditional instrument ”Baleganjur“ during the event. M r. S u g e n g Pramono said, the hotel anniversary already held social activities a few days ago by inviting the orphans of Klungkung to join breaking fasting at the hotel. The 46th Anniversary of the Inna Grand Bali Beach is taking the theme of “Change with Passion” – with the purpose of changes to the sincere, not only in thoughts, words, but also in behavior, especially the implementation of daily work can be done with full sincerity in order to be able to provide services optimal to guests. Moreover, the celebration of hotel anniversary will be cheered up by the annual FUN BIKE Tour de Village, on Sunday, October 7, 2012. Other activities such as employees of the year selection, blood donor cooperate with the Indonesian Red Cross; clean the beach and the area of the hotel a well as visiting temple to balance body & soul also highlighted on the event. “The simple celebration of the event both 67th Anniversary of Indonesian Independence day and the opening of hotel anniversary will not only foster a sense of community, kinship, elevates the spirit of patriotism and national pride for Inna Grand Bali Beach’s employees and surrounding community but also hotel guests can enjoy happily in these activities,” said Mr. Sugeng Pramono. v BTNewspaper/PR