Indonesia Expat - Issue 168 by Indonesia Expat

I S S U E N O. 16 8

15 – 28 J U N E 2 016

J A K A R TA • J AVA • B A L I • LO M B O K • K A L I M A N TA N • S U M AT R A • S U L AW E S I • W E S T PA P UA

W W W. I N D O N E S I A E X PAT. B I Z

THE WONDERS OF GUNUNG LEUSER WILL INDONESIA BAN ALCOHOL?

TIPS FOR SME INVESTORS IN SPITE OF INJUSTICE, HOPE STILL SHINES FOR NEIL & FERDI

A FIELD OF HONOUR IN JAKARTA

issue 168 Indonesia expat

Suite Sensation in Bali Swiss-Belhotel International invites you to experience our Suite Sensation for your next holiday on the island of the Gods, Bali. Indulge in a sumptuous Suite Room at any of our hotels in Bali, relax and be pampered in total luxury.

SWISS-BELHOTEL PETITENGET Rates start from IDR3,360,000 for 3 nights stay in a Griya Santi Suite with Pool View. Experience the luxury of a Suite Room in Bali which also includes buffet breakfast for 2 guests, Free Wi-Fi access, refreshing swimming pool for relaxation and sun bathing and a late check-out of 3pm. Another great benefit is free transfer to the airport or pick-up. Book this offer and experience the comfortable and modern rooms that combine contemporary decor with traditional Balinese touches to create a peaceful and relaxing ambiance. The hotel is located in the trendy hotspot of Petitenget, Seminyak, Bali and surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and Beach Club. It’s happening all around. More info, please contact: Jalan Petitenget 168, Seminyak, Bali Phone: +62 361 8499688 E-mail: resv1sbpb@swiss-belhotel.com www.swiss-belhotelpetitenget.com SWISS-BELHOTEL RAINFOREST KUTA Create new memories whilst immersing yourself in the charm of our suites. Enjoy a taste of what is on offer at our Greeny hotel in Bali with this superb package. Rates start from IDR3,045,000net/ room/ 3 nights in our Executive Suite Room, Buffet breakfast for 2 guests at Oak Restaurant and bar, complimentary late check-out until 3pm, return airport transfer and free access to gym and swimming pool. Swiss-Belhotel 2

Indonesia expat issue 168

Rainforest Kuta is located at Jalan Sunset Road Kuta, with easy access from and to the airport and shopping mall. Staying in Swiss-Belhotel Rainforest Kuta is also perfect for those driving their own vehicle or having family vacations or groups. For more info, please contact:

Jl. Pura Segara, Sawangan, Nusa Dua Selatan, Bali Phone: +62 361 8468288 E-mail: segarabali@swiss-belhotel.com www.swiss-belhotel.com

Jl. Sunset Road No. 101, Kuta, Bali Phone: +62 361 8465680 E-mail: resvsbku@swiss-belhotel.com www.swiss-belhotel.com

Swiss-Belhotel Tuban is a four star hotel in beautiful Bali and one of our most distinctive Balinese hotel hideaways. You can be sure of a heartfelt welcome and a truly unique backdrop in which to relax and unwind with family and friends. Perfect for romantic weekend breaks or a fullyfledged family holiday and even business events. The hotel’s 36 square metre Grand Deluxe Family Room is the ideal accommodation for your family vacation. Featuring a Sofa Bed that can accommodate 2 children, each of the rooms is equipped with diamond pillow tops, rain shower, state of the art TV with all information interface, IDD telephone, personal safety deposit box, mini-bar, coffee and tea making facilities, electronic door lock, and includes breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children under 12 years old. All room types feature modern amenities throughout providing a superior level of comfort and convenience complemented by typically Balinese design touches. For more information, please contact

SWISS-BELHOTEL SEGARA NUSA DUA Swiss-Belhotel Segara is located in Bali’s premier tourism destination, the world-class Nusa Dua Tourism Resort, which offers an amazingly affordable level of luxury combined with true Balinese hospitality. Choose between our 56 square-metre Laguna Rooms which are furnished with comfortable resort-style furnishings. All Laguna Rooms are fitted with King Sized Beds and feature a separate private bathroom with bath tub and rain shower, and a living room. The well-furnished patio allows direct access to one of the Lagoon pools. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to stay in Laguna Rooms as they have direct access via the patio to a 1.4m deep pool on the patio. Why not take a look at the hotel’s Duplex Lofts on the top floor of the resort, which have a pool or partial ocean view. The Duplex Lofts are fitted with King Sized beds in the upper level sleeping area. The lower level seating area is fitted with a king sized sleeper sofa. For more info, please contact:

SWISS-BELHOTEL TUBAN

Jalan Kubu Anyar No. 31, Tuban, Bali Phone: +62361 4727177 E-mail: bali-sbtu@swiss-belhotel.com www.swiss-belhoteltuban.com

SWISS-BELRESORT WATU JIMBAR, SANUR Swiss-Belresort Watu Jimbar combines stylish contemporary interiors that are suitable for both single, couple or family travellers. Staying in Suites at SwissBelresort Watu Jimbar is truly a home away from home. Spoil yourself in your own private Jacuzzi or stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi connection. Your personal suite is a sanctuary that features a separate living room with large plasma TV. Your personal suite is a sanctuary that features a separate living room with latest audio visual including 48” Smart TV with wireless keyboard, iPod/ iPad/MP3 docking station, Nespresso machine with bullets refillable on a daily basis, complimentary mini bar, Individual controlled air conditioning in the room, In room safe with laptop capacity, Retractable cloth line, scale in bathroom, DVD player and surround sound system located in the living room. You will also be provided with a powerful mobile hair dryer, Swiss care bathroom suite amenities, an iron and board permanently set up in the room, a magnifying mirror, a pillow menu available on request, bolster and some kitchen facilities such as microwave, toaster oven, fridge freezer, Chinaware, glassware and cutlery. For more info, please contact: Jl Danau Tamblingan 99a, Sanur, Bali Phone: +62 361 8497000 E-mail: resvsrwj@swiss-belhotel.com www.swiss-belresortwatujimbar.com

issue 168 Indonesia expat

Letter from the Editor

Editor in Chief

Angela Richardson angela@indonesiaexpat.biz

Dear Readers,

Marketing Consultant

Edo Frese edo@indonesiaexpat.biz

Editorial Assistant

Caranissa Djatmiko letters@indonesiaexpat.biz

Sales & Advertising

Dian Mardianingsih (Jakarta) Ervina Tambun (Jakarta) Wahyu Atmaja (Bali) ads@indonesiaexpat.biz

Distribution & Admin

Juni Setiawan admin@indonesiaexpat.biz

Finance

Lini Verawaty finance@indonesiaexpat.biz

Contributors

Cecillia Bae Karen Davis Graham Garven Lina Noviandari Hans Rooseboom May Tien Simon Pitchforth Kenneth Yeung

We are well and truly in the Muslim month of Ramadhan, and for everyone who is currently fasting, we wish you all the best in your endeavours. Following the news that Surabaya banned the production, sale and consumption of alcohol that is over 10 percent proof, the House of Representatives is deliberating a nationwide alcohol prohibition bill, which is controversial to say the least. What would a law of this nature mean for the country? Lina Noviandari explores on page 6. In business, we take a look at tips for investors of small- to medium-sized enterprises in Indonesia, which account for almost 90 percent of businesses in the archipelago. With the

ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in effect, Indonesian SMEs must be able to compete with others in the ASEAN region, and will need to jump on the technology bandwagon in order to compete. Turn to page 8 for the full story. In travel, we take you to Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra, the only place in the world where elephants, tigers, rhinoceros and orangutans still coincide in the wild. Here, we have our own close encounter with the orangutan, this thriving ecosystem, and the colourful people who call it home.

surprising field of honour in the heart of the capital, where thousands of war veterans are laid to rest. We also bring you updates on the situation of Neil Bantleman, Ferdinant Tjiong and the incarcerated JIS cleaners. Cecillia Bae interviews Neil Bantleman’s wife, Tracy, to find out what their next steps are, and how the Indonesian community is helping to raise funding to help these wrongly accused victims.

If you’re looking for something different and cultural to do in the capital, Hans Rooseboom takes you to Menteng Pulo war cemetery – a

Angela Richardson

Editorial Enquiries

letters@indonesiaexpat.biz

Subscriptions

subscriptions@indonesiaexpat.biz

Events

events@indonesiaexpat.biz

Published by

PT. Koleksi Klasik Indonesia Alamanda Tower 25th floor Jl. T.B Simatupang kav 23–24 Jakarta 12430 T: 021 2965 7821 F: 021 2965 7821 Office hours: 09.00–17.00 Monday–Friday Indonesia Expat is published bi-weekly by PT. Koleksi Klasik Indonesia. Opinions Expressed in this publication are those of the writers and the publisher does not accept any responsibility for any errors, ommisions, or complaints arising there from. No parts of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part, in print or electronically without permission of the publisher. All trademarks, logos, brands and designs are copyright and fully reserved by PT. Koleksi Klasik Indonesia.

Letters from the Readers

I am an American expat male, who is gay, and lives in Jakarta. I wanted to write to share an experience I had recently. The other night, I was in a restaurant having dinner with one of my male friends when a woman wearing a veil came into the restaurant and started shouting abuse at us. She called us a disgrace to God’s image and that we were sick and needed to be fixed. She also condemned me to hell. She was eventually escorted off the premises, but I was stunned by her performance and it has haunted me ever since. Firstly, why did she single us out? And is this what Indonesians really think of me and other gay people? Why does having another sexual preference deem me sick and worthy of a so-called hell when murderers and rapists can have a chance at redemption?

I have a couple of gay Indonesian friends, and they have since told me stories that although people here can be OK with who they are, but the government has no place for the gay community, and my friends fear it will only worsen in the future. I am saddened by this. This is such a beautiful country that supposedly celebrates diversity. When did people start to get so closed-minded and judgmental? I believe a bright future is only one where people embrace the differences and complexities that every single human being has within them. I hope one day this country will be able to acknowledge people who are different as also having rights and feelings and they can too have a prosperous and loving life. Doesn’t all religion teach acceptance? Thanks for listening.

Printed by

“George” in Jakarta

On The Cover

Waking up in the jungle in Gunung Leuser National Park. Photo by Angela R.

Indonesia expat issue 168

Connect with Us www.indonesiaexpat.biz

@indonesia_expat

/indonesia.expat

issuu.com/indonesiaexpat

indonesiaexpat

Now available on

For advertising enquiries

021 2965 7821

recycle When you have finished reading this magazine please recycle it.

Issue 168

Contents

06 08 10 12

Feature Story

Indonesia May Turn on a Bootleg Alcohol Tap by Banning the Legal One

Expat Business Featured Tips for Investors: How SMEs in Indonesia can Compete in the AEC Business Profile Primator Indonesia: Pavel Maly Tax The Death of Tax Evasion?

Expat Lifestyle

Meet the Expat Mimi Dougherty: Taking the Bali F&B Industry by Storm

Travel The Bare Necessities: Gunung Leuser

History Menteng Pulo: Field of Honour

Food & Drink A Mixed Bag of Maroush

Expat Outreach

Art of the Indies Artpreciation: Preserving Culture through Tourism

Scams in the City No Google Award, Just a Rape Ad

Neil, Ferdi & the Cleaners In Spite of Injustice, Hope Still Shines from Cipinang

Worthy Causes Fiona Unity: Fundraising to the Top

23 24 25 26 28

Announcements For the Macet Mind Observations The TV Set Events and Directory Classifieds

issue 168 Indonesia expat

Indonesia May Turn on a Bootleg Alcohol Tap by Banning the Legal One The House of Representatives is deliberating an alcohol prohibition bill. But concerns have been raised, and many believe the move would be counterproductive. BY LINA NOVIANDARI

long-proposed prohibition bill on alcohol has returned to the House of Representatives in the wake of the brutal gang rape and murder of a 14-year-old schoolgirl in Bengkulu. The fact that the rapists consumed palm wine has galvanized anti-alcohol activists in the archipelago to push the bill forward on the government’s agenda. The bill is controversial at best, and many question whether prohibition would be the right way forward. Advocates say the country’s cultural problem with sexual violence can be more aptly linked to weak education about what rape really is, combined with the country’s evidently lenient legal consequences. Additionally, when entertaining the idea of what alcohol prohibition might bring to the nation, a handful of politicians believe, “when one door closes, another one opens.” The liquor prohibition bill in question was initially proposed last year by two political parties – the United Development Party and the Prosperous Justice Party – to protect people from the negative health effects of liquor. Fahira Idris, chairwoman of the National Anti-Liquor Movement (Gerakan Nasional Anti Miras) and a member

Indonesia expat issue 168

of the House of Regional Representatives, says the repeated involvement of alcohol in criminal cases committed by minors is a sure sign that Indonesia’s youth is in danger. She tells Indonesia Expat: “Almost every day, we hear reports of criminal acts as a result of alcohol, including murder, rape, robbery, and riots. Many of our children are losing their futures as a result of alcohol. We need a constitution-level regulation that strictly prohibits liquor throughout Indonesia. [The volume of] alcohol-related data, facts, and tragic events show us that alcohol is undeniably a source of disaster.” According to Idris, research conducted by Gerakan Nasional Anti Miras in cooperation with the University of Indonesia’s Center of Criminology Studies concludes that 34.9 percent of children who committed a murder in Indonesia drank liquor before or during the act. The study also claims that easy access to liquor is another key factor. Idris adds that the number of young people who consume alcohol is on the rise in general. She says 4.9 percent of young people drank in 2007, a number that jumped to 23 percent in 2014. “This is a danger,” says Idris.

The government has taken action to address the issue. Indonesia already has a regulation that supervises and controls the production, distribution, and consumption of certain products. Alcohol is prominently one of them. Some cities, such as East Java’s capital Surabaya, are even imposing a full-on ban of liquor sales. Last year, the government started banning beer in mini-markets across the nation. However, people like Idris believe these actions are just not enough. “The bylaws are certainly not enough. Out of 514 districts and cities in Indonesia, there are only around 20 districts or cities that have alcohol or anti-alcohol bylaws,” claims Idris. “The rest do not have clear bylaws on production, distribution, and consumption of alcohol. So just imagine; most areas in Indonesia do not have clear rules about alcohol, whereas alcohol is a source of social problems. A law on liquor prohibition means that regulation would be applied nationally, and must be complied with by everyone throughout Indonesia.” The bill would ban producing, storing, distributing, and consuming alcohol, with exceptions for cultural, religious, tourism, and pharmaceutical purposes. This important

Lina Noviandari is a Jakarta-based freelance journalist and former editor at Tech in Asia. She specializes in news, business and human interest stories from Southeast Asia. For more information, visit www.contentcollision.co

“Prohibition would force the alcohol business in Indonesia to become an illegal black market, which would further increase consumption of dangerous homemade liquor.”

nuance is covered in articles 5, 6, and 7 of the document. Meanwhile, there are three types of alcoholic beverages that are prohibited in the bill; they are type A (1 percent to 5 percent alcohol content), type B (5 percent to 10 percent), and type C (20 percent to 45 percent). The proposed punishments range from three months to ten years in prison, and a fine of between Rp.20 million (US$1,489) and Rp.1 billion (US$74,474).

of whom lost their lives. Miras oplosan is usually sold illegally throughout the archipelago. Not only is it a cheaper way to get intoxicated, it’s also easy to get, unlike licensed liquor, which is limited in distribution. Ironically, Indonesians consume 0.6 litres of alcohol per capita, and 0.5 litres of these are illegal, according to the World Health Organization. The twist, according to Uddarojat, is that a liquor prohibition bill would likely increase this figure.

However, just like many other bills in the House of Representatives, it sparks controversy. In contrast to Idris, Rofi Uddarojat, a researcher at the Centre for Indonesian Policy Studies argues that a liquor prohibition bill is not the right move. He explains that the actual problem the government should tackle – in relation to booze – is illegal, smuggled, and fake alcohol. Not only problematic for business, bootleg liquor is dangerous, says Uddarojat.

“In some of our studies, we found that in fact there is a very strong correlation between miras oplosan and prohibition. The data shows that most of the miras oplosan victims are from districts or cities that implement limited or total liquor prohibition. Out of 30 districts or cities in Java where the victims are from, 83.4 percent of the victims live in 23 districts or cities that implement these bylaws,” says Uddarojat in an interview with Indonesia Expat.

In February, bootleg liquor, also known as ‘miras oplosan’ (alcohol mixed with dangerous substances like methanol, sleeping pills, mosquito repellent, and more) killed 24 people in Jogjakarta. A similar case also occurred in early May. In total, miras oplosan has harmed around 823 people in Indonesia since 2013, approximately half

According to him, “prohibition would force the alcohol business in Indonesia to become an illegal black market, which would further increase consumption of dangerous homemade liquor.” He adds, “With the ban as covered in the bill, miras oplosan, which has killed hundreds of people, will be even more rampant and more difficult to control by the government. The lower class will be ‘forced’

to consume miras oplosan. According to the bill, as an exception, alcohol can be consumed for tourism purposes. Essentially, this means only the rich are ‘allowed’ to consume alcohol if the bill is passed.” Instead of banning alcohol, Uddarojat suggests that the government focus on tightening its supervision efforts. One of the ways to do so is to strictly enforce a legal drinking age in Indonesia, making it illegal for people under the age of 21 to drink or purchase booze. By allowing consumers easy access to legal alcohol, the government could also shift back purchase preferences from dangerous homebrew to safer spirits. On top of the potential for a black market and the likely increase of miras oplosan sales, the bill has also led to other, more subtle, speculations. Some say the bill could be used as a tool for corruption, as the case can be made that there is a hidden political agenda behind the bill itself. Others believe the word ‘prohibition’ should be removed from the bill’s name, so as not to mislead the public on its content. Currently, the bill is under deliberation by the House of Representatives, and is set to be decided on later this month.

issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT BUSINESS FEATURED

Tips for Investors: How SMEs in Indonesia Can Compete in the AEC With the AEC in effect, Indonesia’s small businesses have competition from neighbouring countries. Here’s how 57 million SMEs can thrive in the digital economy. BY LINA NOVIANDARI

Entering its mid-year checkpoint, the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) still seems like a concept that Indonesians are trying to grapple with. Changing Southeast Asia into a single market, and allowing the free movement of goods, services, investments, and skilled labour, is a big deal. It’s also a transition that can’t be done overnight. Some say the AEC is a test for Indonesia’s small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which account for nearly 90 percent of all businesses in the archipelago. Currently, there are 57 million SMEs in Indonesia which contribute to 57.9 percent of the country’s GDP. With its 250 million population – coupled with the largest working-age demographic in the region – Indonesia has the ingredients to become an economic powerhouse of Southeast Asia. That said, many entrepreneurs still worry that foreign firms will come to Jakarta and steal the market away from local businesses in the name of free trade. Local SMEs are not only competing domestically, but also regionally. In terms of competitiveness, Indonesia ranks 34th in the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Index 2014-2015. The country comes in well below Singapore at number two, Malaysia at number 20, and Thailand at number 31. Stiff competition 8

Indonesia expat issue 168

from these nations raises concerns that Indonesia may end up merely spectating on the AEC’s progress.

Tech to the rescue Singapore trade minister Lim Hng Kiang recently brought up key measures in the AEC 2025 blueprint that could help Indonesia’s SMEs. One of them was the use of disruptive technology to streamline business processes, while also reducing operational costs. Additionally, by bringing their businesses online, local SMEs can more easily penetrate new markets. There are several services to help Indonesia’s SMEs jump into the digital economy. Online shop builders like Jakartabased Sirclo, for example, let local retailers create their own e-stores and start selling online immediately. Sirclo co-founder and CEO Brian Marshal says his cloud-based firm has already surpassed 10,000 active users. Marshal claims Sirclo will soon surpass US$200,000 in annual recurring revenue. Sirclo is currently facilitating US$4 million in gross merchandise volume – a key term in e-commerce that defines the total dollar amount of sales a platform has facilitated over a given period of time. “We’ve seen some success stories recently,” says Marshal. “Today, it’s not such a rare case to see individually-managed

businesses on our platform quickly go from US$0 to US$5,000 in monthly revenue.” Apart from building their own e-shops, SMEs in the local retail space can also join consumer-to-consumer marketplaces like Bukalapak and Tokopedia, which have been avidly trying to on-board more SME merchants, following the inception of the AEC. When considering e-commerce, one must also think about the available e-payments options in Indonesia. If Indonesian SMEs want to sell online, they have to find a way to pay and get paid. To facilitate this, local payment gateways such as Doku, Veritrans, and iPaymu come into play. These firms process online payments via local banks and credit cards, but also work with international providers like PayPal. This helps Indonesian firms accommodate the needs of customers and vendors anywhere in the world. But the availability of resources isn’t the only factor that will help local firms compete. There is no substitute for offering the best product or service, says Willson Cuaca, managing partner of local venture capital firm East Ventures. Cuaca’s VC firm is one of the most active early-stage tech investors in the region, and a large section of the firm’s portfolio consists of Indonesian

software-as-a-service (SaaS) startups that aim to empower small- and medium-sized businesses. According to Cuaca, when SMEs have similar business models, customers, and know-how across a single region, the competitive advantage will ultimately come down to the company’s ability to outperform its rivals. “This is where software might help them to execute better. We think the SMEs that are powered by business process software will emerge as the winners,” Cuaca tells Indonesia Expat. For those who are less familiar with technology lingo, ‘SaaS’ is a word used to describe any licensing and delivery model in which software is provided on a subscription basis, and hosted in a centralized location (the cloud). For example, Microsoft Office is normal software you install on your laptop, but cloud-based Google Drive, on the other hand, is SaaS. Cuaca says the rise of SaaS in the region might be just what Indonesia’s SMEs need to thrive. Currently, Indonesia is seeing more local SaaS startups emerging. Human resources, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and accounting tech are all verticals that local startups are attacking avidly. Apart from Sirclo, East Ventures also invests in HR

“Indonesian SMEs that utilize the web in their operations are clocking up to 80 percent more revenue than those that do not.”

Willson Cuaca, Managing Partner of East Ventures

startups Talenta and Rekruta, POS SaaS firm Moka, and cloud-based accounting and bookkeeping platform Jurnal. The trend is not limited to Cuaca and East Ventures, however, as studies show that 60 percent of the region's SaaS startups raised a total of US$90 million in funding as of May 2015.

Infrastructure and government support is needed According to a recent Deloitte report, shifting to digital doesn’t only give smalland medium-sized enterprises a better chance at competing regionally, it also offers other benefits. The report indicates that Indonesian SMEs that utilize the web in their operations are clocking up to 80 percent more revenue than those that do not. They are almost twice as likely to be hiring more people, and 17 times more likely to already be competing abroad. Unfortunately, only 18 percent of SMEs in Indonesia are at an intermediate engagement level with the web – meaning they use websites and social media – and 9 percent are at an advanced engagement level, which means they have sophisticated connectivity, social media integration, and e-commerce capabilities. The rest of Indonesia’s small- and medium-sized businesses are either completely offline (36

percent) or have only rudimentary online capabilities (37 percent). This combined 73 percent of SMEs are the ones that will struggle to survive in the AEC, unless they find a way to jump on the bandwagon and go digital. To expedite the transition, government support will likely play a key role. Compared to other countries in the region, Indonesia’s broadband access is still relatively low, with roughly 30 percent of the nation’s population accessing the Internet from home. Its closest neighbours, Singapore and Malaysia, are flying high with 73 percent and 67 percent respectively. Some believe the government needs to improve the nation’s physical infrastructure before a digital revolution can truly take place for Indonesia’s SMEs. In terms of support, the government should offer better access to capital, while also making it faster and easier to incorporate a business in the archipelago. Once these things run smoothly, and more local firms find a way to do business online, it’s conceivable that Indonesia’s SMEs will stand a fighting chance against their foreign peers in the AEC.

issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT BUSINESS BUSINESS PROFILE

Primator Indonesia

Government Will Find a Place for Alcohol: Pavel Maly

The Primator brewery was established in 1872 in the town of Náchod in the Eastern part of the Czech Republic. A relatively young brewery, Primator has an output of 140,000 hectolitres, focusing on the production of special beers. We meet the Principal of Primator in Indonesia, Pavel Maly.

How many types of beers do you produce? Primator produces 15 types of beers – classic pilsners as Premium or Premium Dark, top-fermented as Weizenbier, Stout or English and India Pale Ale, specials with an alcohol content of 7.5 percent – 10.5 percent, and finally a flavoured grapefruit beer. Primator focuses on export – can you tell us where? Thirty-five percent of production is exported to 36 countries. In East Asia the brewery supplies to Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Taiwan, China and Indonesia, recently receiving queries from Singapore and Hong Kong. What do your Indonesian customers say about your beer? Indonesian customers are positively surprised by the full and robust taste, which is at the same time very smooth and rounded. What market research was conducted before entering Indonesia? I lived in Indonesia for some time and had the chance to taste all the beers available on the market. Later on, my local colleagues visited the Czech Republic, tasted our beers and told me to start importing Czech beer to Indonesia. So I did! I would not be able to succeed in this endeavour without great support of the Czech Embassy and the European Indonesian Business Network (EIBN), who helped me to present Primator at the Wine and Cheese Expo in 2014. There, I had the opportunity to talk to professionals and the general public and got the necessary feedback. I think we selected and brought the right variety of beer for the Indonesian market. We have also been supported by the Czech Embassy in Jakarta, which I am grateful for.

We’re now in the month of Ramadhan. What does this mean for your business operations? Will it be business as usual or otherwise? I expect a slowing down of business with the exception of Bali, where our distributor expects a higher volume of sales due to the higher number of local and foreign visitors.

Of all your different types of beer you brew, which is most popular in Indonesia? Based on market research and recommendations of the local beer market experts, we decided to register three types of beer: Primator Premium, World´s Best Lager 2010; Primator Weizenbier, World´s Best Beer 2013; and Primator Chipper, which is Weizenbier with grapefruit juice. We supply all of these in 500 ml bottles and later we plan to offer 20 litre nonreturnable plastic kegs with a tapping devise without Co2 or biogas bottles. How many retail and F&B outlets is your beer now available at in Indonesia? We are fast expanding, especially in Bali and Surabaya. Jakarta is little bit slower. At the moment Primator is available in 50 outlets in those three areas and our target is to triple the number of outlets by the end of the summer. After widespread protests against the rule to disallow the sale of beer in minimarkets in Bali, the Vice Chairman of the Bali House of Representatives issued a special set of rules that allowed the sale of beer in tourist areas of Bali last year. Did this have an effect on your sales? Primator was not impacted by the set of rules in Bali. Our sales are growing there this year, available in minimarkets like Angel Mart or Brothers Mart, supermarkets like Pepito, Bali Deli or Hardys, and some outlets like Melting Pot saloon or Nyoman´s Beer Garden at a price of Rp.85,000.

Tell us about your distribution operations. How does this work? I would say that distribution is the same as with other alcohol. PT Pantja Artha Niaga is an importer, and the general distributor is PT Sinar Mulia Gemilang, which operates in Jakarta and spreads the beer to other areas as well.

will happen to the prices? I am personally against the price increasing. What challenges do you face in the import alcohol market in Indonesia? The biggest challenge is the change of rules. Every business needs a clear and simple set of rules which is stable over a long period of time. Of course, the alcohol business is specific, but there is no need to develop complicated rules; just use the best practices which have proven themselves to work well in other countries, provide jobs for people, keep consumption safe and create a steady income for the government.

You offer a home delivery service. What is the minimum order? The minimum order is one case of 20 bottles of 500 ml. The delivery is free and the price is Rp.1.4 million per case. Customers can also buy a case of glasses. The plan for the future is to offer 20 litre plastic kegs with tapping device for private parties. According to your Facebook page, Czechs drink the most beer of any nation. Can you share the statistics and your thoughts on why this is so? Yes, the Czechs are the biggest consumers of beer per capita in the world. There are over 250 breweries in our small country with

What are your thoughts on the banning of alcohol in Surabaya, and how will this affect the entire alcohol industry in Indonesia? I think that it will open the door for the black market and dangerous unlicensed production and sales. A lot of people will probably lose their jobs, and the government will lose taxes. Finally it could have a positive impact on demand for beer, which would be good. The question is what

BUSINESS SNIPPETS

KFit to Acquire Groupon Indonesia Move will see KFit enter Southeast Asia’s largest consumer market and expand into multi-category local commerce. KFit Holdings Pte Ltd (KFit) on June 6 signed a deal to acquire Groupon Indonesia at an undisclosed fee. The acquisition will see KFit enter the Indonesian market with Groupon Indonesia as a wholly-owned subsidiary of KFit, while Groupon Inc will become a strategic shareholder of KFit. Groupon Indonesia is an established leader in local commerce with over 1 10

Indonesia expat issue 168

million subscribers and over 15,000 local merchants. It is among the most visited e-commerce websites in the country. “Indonesia represents an untapped opportunity for us and serves as a natural expansion of our regional footprint in Southeast Asia. The combination of Groupon Indonesia’s established presence and KFit’s experience in building a

per capita is similar to China's in 2009, according to Alibaba.”

mobile-first platform will propel us in a high-growth local commerce market, further accelerated by increasing mobile penetration” said Joel Neoh, Founder and CEO of KFit.

“While KFit will continue to focus on health and fitness services, this presents a strategic direction for us to enhance and broaden our offerings. In the long run, this acquisition will provide us with a strong platform for growth in Southeast Asia,” added Neoh.

“Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous nation is expected to become the next breakout market for e-commerce after China and India. It’s current GDP

The transaction is expected to be completed in Q3 2016. KFit has confirmed that there will be no immediate changes to the business.

“I think that it will open the door for the black market and dangerous unlicensed production and sales.” a population of 10 million people – that’s why beer there is of the highest quality and comes at a fantastic price. We brew 18 million hectolitres a year and 15 million hectolitres are consumed at home. This means roughly 156 liters per person a year. Imported beers represent only 1 percent of total consumption. No one can compete; western tourists visit our country to visit the historical sights and to taste our great beer. We have more than 1,000 years of tradition in brewing and consuming beer, precisely since 998 when the very first brewery was documented. Beer is our tradition, our life; it’s in our blood. Once a year almost every brewery organizes open door parties with music and food. You are welcome in the Czech Republic to celebrate with us!

all over the world. All three Primator beers available in Indonesia represent the unique art of brewing in Náchod. In your opinion, what is the future for the alcohol industry in Indonesia? Indonesia has quite a short experience with alcohol and we as alcohol professionals should educate customers about the alcohol drinking culture, quality selection and also reveal that quality alcohol in small amounts is beneficial for one’s health, especially a glass of beer or wine a day is great. I believe that the government will recognize this and find the right place for the alcohol business. I am an optimistic person, so I believe that the alcohol industry and culture will eventually develop in Indonesia.

What would you say to someone who hasn’t tried Primator yet? Anyone is invited to try the sensation that leaves you waiting for the next sip. It is a characteristic of all types of Pilsner beers for which Czech Premium lager is famous

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/primator.asia or email pavel.maly@malysan.cz

How KFit is evolving KFit’s strategic imperative is to offer more services to cater to a broader base of consumers on a hyper-local level. Since its debut as a fitness sharing platform in April 2015, KFit has extended its offerings to include beauty and wellness categories, and launched its pay-per-use offering, KFit Go. In the past six months, KFit users have reserved over 400,000 activities. Today, one reservation is made every minute on the KFit platform.

which is why this acquisition is significant. We are going to build on Groupon Indonesia’s strong foundation and grow it further based on our experience and expertise,” said Neoh.

“Our goal is to transform the way people experience much more than just fitness,

“We believe that the KFit team is wellpositioned to take the Indonesian business to even greater heights, as Joel has been a formidable leader for Groupon in Asia Pacific in the past. We look forward to seeing the company grow and are excited to become a strategic shareholder of KFit,” said Michel Piestun, president of APAC at Groupon.

issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT BUSINESS Tax

The Death of

Tax Evasion?

Graham has over 25 years of professional tax experience, 19 of which have been in Indonesia. He is widely acknowledged as one of Indonesia’s most experienced foreign tax advisers. To get in touch, email graham.garven@vdb-loi.com

BY GR AHAM GARVEN

“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death….. and taxes” So said Benjamin Franklin a few years back. But was he right? Most of us would agree that death, at least, is a near certainty, but the release of the Panama Papers has brought the ‘certainty’ of the latter into sharp focus. The leaks have created an unprecedented level of discussion on tax evasion and avoidance and highlighted more than ever the extent and prevalence of practices which are increasingly seen as immoral, at best. Those who have been paying attention, i.e. those who don’t switch off/yawn at the first mention of the word tax, are not surprised. Richard Murphy and the Tax Justice Network from the UK for example have been campaigning for years against aggressive tax avoidance, principally by multinationals, and the effect the practices have on developing nations and the poorest in society. Whether considered a certainty or not there is nothing as permanent as change (so said Heraclitus – a few years before Franklin) and the times they are certainly a-changing. The G20 and the OECD finally addressed the issue of tackling unfair tax practices, issuing 15 action plans last year, agreed by 60 countries, under the so-called BEPS project. Whilst the Tax Justice Network amongst others claims these are insufficient there is no denying that they will have a significant impact. An estimated 70 percent of cross border trade takes place between related parties – the transfer pricing between these entities is a main area of concern - and in one example of the impact it is reported that the BEPS project has already led to 80 percent of UK-based multinationals re-thinking their tax strategies. Pascal Saint-Amans, director of the OECD Centre for Tax Policy and Administration, one of the most influential figures in the global tax field, has said “Playtime is over”. What does this mean for Indonesia and the readers of this publication? Well, to start with, Indonesia is amongst the 60 signatories to the agreed action plans, she was an enthusiastic participant and has been an early adopter of some of the proposed changes.

Indonesia expat issue 168

Those in charge of multinationals here (or the finances thereof) are likely to find that, at the very least, additional or alternative reporting will be required. In many cases the business model may change over time and this will impact on KPIs and bonus schemes. I am reminded of an occasion when, having completed the transfer pricing study of the subsidiary of a multinational here (defending the profits reported locally), at a house party I overheard the CEO of the same company bemoaning the fact that he could not meet his targets as head office kept sucking all the money out! But the trend is more important and the bigger news in Indonesia is the impending tax amnesty – a grand plan to tackle tax evasion locally by offering lower rates on previously undeclared assets and income sources. The idea is that this will bring in an estimated US$4.5bn in immediate tax funds (already allocated to projects within the State Budget) and also assist in increasing the level of compliance and the tax to GDP ratio. This is currently sitting around or below 12 percent - the lowest in the G20, with the exception of Saudi Arabia(!), and is quite frankly unsustainable. As it stands the amnesty will affect expatriates as well as locals. It is acknowledged that expats are not the targets and would in any case account for only a very small percentage of the targeted funds, but there is currently no distinction in treatment between different types of tax residents based on citizenship. Many locals may be looking at the tax amnesty as an opportunity to wipe the tax slate clean at minimal cost but others are not so sure, as evidenced by the delays in passing the bill through parliament. Pause for effect. Much of the concern from certain sectors regarding implementation may stem from the resulting enforcement of taxes on the newly declared wealth. It is not yet clear about the basis on which the concessionary penalty rates will be payable and how this will impact future taxation on the same assets or income streams. Should resources

permit, the Indonesian Tax Office is intent on enforcing compliance and raising the tax to GDP ratio and within two years will also have in their armory the ability to call upon automatic exchange of information, meaning there will be less and less places to hide undeclared assets. This uncertainty also applies to expatriates, who may have the added complication of interactions with different tax rules in their home country and who will in most cases have less flexibility in what can be done to comply or take advantage of the concessionary rates, but who may be similarly affected by the subsequent enforcement of compliance and the automatic exchange of information. In the early years of my time in Indonesia, a frequent response to hearing that I was a tax advisor was “in Indonesia – no-one pays taxes here, do they?”. Well the fact is that, as noted above, too few have been paying their share but the trend, and the resolve to maintain this trend, is clear. What the limited compliance means is that too few pay too much. Whether the amnesty will succeed in redressing this imbalance or not, all taxpayers should ensure that they are in a position to comply. Tax evasion has always been wrong and should be eliminated. Tax avoidance is legal but has been tainted by artificial constructs. Tax planning is both legal and ethical and encourages efficient compliance – it could mean the difference between paying zero tax and paying tax far in excess of published rates. One thing is clear, if not certain - Taxpayers should be aware, not only of their obligations but also their rights to allow both alignment with the changing dynamics of global taxation and, locally, to participate in fulfilling Indonesia’s potential.

issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT LIFESTYLE FOOD & DRINK Our Clandestine Critic has dined all over the world, everywhere from threeMichelin starred restaurants in Monaco to street stalls in Shanghai – so this discerning palate has pedigree. The quest for truth and the elimination of mediocrity in Indonesia’s emerging dining scene is finally here!

T HE C L A N DE ST IN E C R I T IC

A Mixed Bag of Maroush BY THE CL ANDESTINE CRITIC

Our expert epicure continues an undercover operation to bring you the truth about Indonesia’s dining scene. No spoon is left unturned in the quest for honest, balanced reviews, from long-established favourites to the hottest new tables in town. To kick off the Muslim holy month of Ramadhan, the Critic visits Moroccan restaurant Maroush on the mezzanine floor of the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Jakarta.

Lamb Tagine

It all started in a Blue Bird taxi one balmy, wet evening. Trapped on Sudirman with red tail lights blazing as far as we could see and moving centimetre by centimetre, we did the only thing reasonable: we thanked our driver for services rendered and set out into the wilds of Jakarta’s rush hour traffic on foot (and into fumes, soot, mud and questionable walking paths).

“Was Maroush simply one level up from an eclectic food court that tries to impress everyone only to dish disappointment instead?”

Three kilometres later, our nerves still intact and after many discussions on how to dodge menacing minivans whilst in supposed zebra crossings, we arrive at Maroush. What an oasis! We were greeted with tastefully painted gem-coloured walls and furnishings, wrought-iron doors and blown-glass décor. It was a quiet evening, with no signs of belly dancers or live music, as it was mid-week. On one side of the dining room, businessmen sat languidly sipping tea and puffing on sheesha pipes. A large group of welldressed ladies celebrating an engagement or something equally as exciting sat in another corner emitting squeals of delight in short, staccato bursts throughout the evening.

anyone other than a toddler. The kebab itself was lukewarm and dry with an overwhelming onion component, and the yoghurt could have been served with a more conservative hand. This was certainly not representative of the delicious minced kebab that sent me to another plane of existence from Istanbul some years ago.

We were certainly the odd couple out, of sorts. Sweaty, a little frazzled and weary, we certainly didn’t look like the kind that should be allowed into the restaurant. However, we were welcomed with warm smiles and immediate seating. Baklava

Appetizer Dips

After collecting my thoughts and some deep-yogic breathing to exorcise the previous hour of treachery along the walkways, I read through a dizzying menu of cuisines. My companion and I sat immobilized and shared some mutual feelings of trepidation. We had heard of the fine Moroccan meals, but Indian and now Turkish, too? There was even a section on “Chindian” cuisine, a hybrid of Chinese and Indian fare. Was Maroush simply one level up from an eclectic food court that tries to impress everyone only to dish disappointment instead? In the end, we decided to order one dish from every section of the menu. By this point in the evening, nothing could have been worse than when I stepped into some slimy sludge that I mistook for a sidewalk somewhere along the Taman Semanggi interchange. The Maître D’ brought some lovely harissa-spiced black olives, juicy raisins and salted peanuts to our table as a complement to our meal. It was a pleasant surprise and certainly went over well as we gulped down our icy brews. The Four Favorite Dips in One Plate displayed fine samples of their eggplant dips and hummus, with the spicy eggplant being the standout. Everything was arranged with a deft touch, and served with a variety of breads from pita to lavash to pide, a regional Turkish type of pita that looks and feels more like a soft, flat roll. It’s perfect for dips, and we definitely started to feel more confident in the kitchen’s ability.

Maroush Crowne Plaza Hotel Lt. 2 Jl. Jenderal Gatot Subroto Kav 2-3 Tel: +62(0)2152892431 +62(0)2192772277 Website: www.nomi-inc.co.id

Indonesia expat issue 168

As suspected, surprises abounded this evening, and not all of them as favourable as the dips and complementary snacks, when the Maître D’ presented a rather strange platter of white, which served as the Yayla Chicken Kebab. What was supposed to be a Turkish style kebab of minced chicken and spices with a garlic-infused yoghurt sauce looked more like a plate full of smashed, pasty meatball patties swimming in a sea of stark white yoghurt. I fail to understand how the dish could have looked appetizing to

However, the Royal Lamb Tagine arrived bubbling with dramatic delight; the sensuous aromas of prunes and spices engulfed the table as soon as the lid was lifted. A gorgeous fork-tender lamb shank rested perfectly in the centre, atop its savoury-sweet juices. It was delightful with the freshly buttered naan bread and pide. The Bhindi Do-Pyaza (okra cooked with onions and spices) also did not disappoint. Extremely tender, young okra stewed with Indian spices and caramelized onions provided a much-needed pop to the palate after all of the sweet-savouriness of the lamb and diverted attention away from the disappointing chicken kebab. It’s not difficult to imagine a thriving dining room full of diners especially during Ramadhan, when Jakartans celebrate the breaking of the fast with the variety of decent preparations of the various cuisines they provide at Maroush. I suppose, when a restaurant sets out to appease the masses, each dish may not be as enjoyable as the other, but there is always something that satisfies. On the other hand, with too much variety there is a loss of focus and ability to retain excellence in a well-meaning kitchen, where outstanding dishes are diluted by the mediocre and downright dreadful. As a critic, this is something I encounter time and again in Jakarta. It is unfair to deny the kitchen one accolade and at the same time unfair to the reader to obscure any creation that doesn’t translate well to the table. Maroush is a mixed bag as such. On the night we dined, it presented a very good Moroccan-style tagine, an appalling Turkish kebab and delicious Indian okra. The bread was decent, but the baklava dry and bland. And although an excellent pair of shoes did meet an untimely demise along the way, the culinary journey at Maroush was somewhat enjoyable. Verdict?

Cheque please! Price (Dinner for 2) Drinks: Rp.100,000 Food: Rp.690,000 Tax (10 percent): Rp.79,000 Service Charge (10 percent): Rp.86,900 Total: Rp.955,900

EXPAT LIFESTYLE MEET THE EXPAT Karen Davis is a NYC artist and writer

MIMI DOUGHERTY

Taking the Bali F&B Industry by Storm BY K AREN DAVIS

Mimi Dougherty grew up in Bali. Now 25, she is involved in several successful restaurants and clubs including Sushimi, which Tripadvisor calls “The best sushi in Bali”, Ling-Ling’s and Track 9. She’s also just recently launched her own jewellery collection with a close friend.

Pura on my bicycle on the tiny pathways through the rice fields to friends’ houses. Life was a lot simpler on the island back then. Did you ever leave Bali after schooling? I moved abroad to Sydney to study at university. I spent a total of two years there before we got offered a business opportunity in Bali whilst on holidays. I went back to Sydney, packed up my apartment and came home – to me, Bali feels like home. What are some of the venues you have created or been a part of? My partner and I opened our restaurant, Sushimi, in 2013. We saw a niche in the market that hadn’t been filled, and that’s where the idea of our little sushi train stemmed from. Everything fell into place and three years later it’s still going strong. Tell me about your latest ventures. My main focus at the moment is LingLing’s, an Asian fusion restaurant and bar. James, my business partner, came up with the concept of creating something completely different. A fun, affordable place for people who love to head out, eat delicious food and have a cocktail or two before heading out on the town.

Mimi, tell me your background and when you first started living here in Bali. Both my parents are Australian. My mother moved here over 23 years ago, with me as a baby, to write for the first tourist magazine on the island, The Bali Echo. Things were a lot different back then, I grew up within a small community of expats, most of us went to the same kindergarten then onto a home-school based programme. With a handful of other kids we collectively made up a class, called the Kerobokan Study Group (KSG), which was founded by one of the parents, Miss Maree (I still call her Miss Maree to this day, so do a lot of my former classmates). I went to the Sunrise School when it first launched, then did some years back in Australia and came back to graduate at The Australian International School in Bali. Most of the Bali kids have spread out internationally now, but we keep in touch and we have a special bond.

We’ve collaborated with some of my good friends who created the PNNY collective and hopefully we’ll be able to throw some good parties in the not-too-distant future (they’re the experts at throwing good parties on the island). We’re keeping the music fresh, light and fun and the décor is based on anime themes. It’s a fun place to hang out and the reception has been great so far.

“We saw a niche in the market that hadn’t been filled, and that’s where the idea of our little sushi train stemmed from.”

I’ve also started working on a creative collaboration with one of my closest friends Tina, called Allora. You can find our collection in Single Fin retail shops in Seminyak and Pecatu. What are some of the challenges people face when creating new businesses in Bali? Opening a new business is always tricky anywhere in the world. In Bali one could say it’s more difficult because there is so much great competition. Bali has so many fantastic places to dine out. It’s hard to work your way into the market in the first place; it also involves a lot of paperwork, then you have to keep adding new elements to keep it fresh and exciting. I feel as if Bali’s F&B industry has taken the island by storm, which is great for us! It inspires me to work harder, learn more, to keep on top of it and, of course, we have some amazing instruments like social media, which plays a huge role in keeping the story out there. We try to have fun with it and I think that’s what people enjoy. What clientele do you focus on? Our target market consists of a mix of tourists, expats and the local market. We have a lot of expats that are regulars at both our venues. I feel as if tourists are always a given in Bali as everyone who’s holidaying here is always looking to visit the latest upcoming bars and restaurants. How do you see tourism evolving in Bali? What is your vision for a better Bali? Tourism is definitely not slowing down, if anything Bali is getting more popular on the list of destinations people want to travel to. Unfortunately, this influx of the mass tourism industry over the last decade has set the road for extreme development on the island. In my opinion, the amount of people entering and leaving Bali has had a detrimental effect on our beautiful island home. Development of this once paradiselike island has had a harmful effect on the Balinese people, the culture and the environment. Not all of it is good, but with the negatives come positives and I feel as if each individual on this island has a part to play. What are your future plans? As of right now, I’m just taking each day as it comes!

What do the friends you grew up with and still live in Bali do? One of the great things is seeing my generation of friends who grew up here doing well. Some of them really are doing great things especially in food, fashion and events – Peloton, Straw Hut, Sea Circus, Track 9, PNNY, The Seed, Just For The Money, Single Fin, to name just a few. We support each other and still to this day there is a great sense of community. What is one of your fondest memories as a child growing up in Bali? When I was kid I remember knowing every single person on the street I grew up on, riding through the back of Jalan Dhyana

issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT LIFESTYLE TRAVEL

The Bare Necessities

Trekking Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra in search of endangered orangutans in another world. WORDS & PHOTOS BY ANGEL A RICHARDSON

In 2003, a terrible flash flood swept away almost the entirety of the village – which back then was made up of only a few cottages. Thirteen years later, Bukit Lawang has developed into a happening tourist hub filled with orangutan enthusiasts and those in search of a more simple and chilled existence. The drive is approximately four hours from Medan international airport. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted in English with “Welcome to the jungle, brother!” and the rushing sounds of the river will start to relax those tired-from-travelling minds. The village is filled with riverside cafes, Bob Marley bars, and ‘eco’ accommodation. Lodging in Bukit Lawang is simple sans air-conditioning or hot water. Electricity isn’t stable, but this adds to the charm. People come here to experience wildlife and trek into the jungle, not to lounge around in five-star luxury.

Jungle fever Most accommodations can organize a range of trekking options for you. On our twoday, one-night hike into the national park, we spotted our first orangutan in the trees above us only an hour into the hike. Semi-

wild and used to people, you can get really close to these endangered animals, who have been given names by the locals. Mina, for instance, does not like humans and is quite aggressive, often accosting tourists on their walks. It turns out she had been abused by humans when she was younger, resulting in trust issues, understandably. Other creatures you’re likely to meet on this trail are macaques, the punk rock-looking Thomas leaf monkey, pigtail macaques and even gibbons. The hike itself is quite strenuous, as the region is hilly – which is actually the saving grace for why it has not been exploited by oil palm plantations. It’s extremely humid and hot, therefore not suitable for elderly hikers or people without a moderate level of fitness. Although the hike is a bit tough, you can stop and rest whenever the need arises. We trekked 6.5 kilometres through the dense jungle, stopping for a light snack of fruits and a lunch of nasi goreng. One thing I noticed is that the trail is extremely clean, with no litter to be found. The guides have been taught from the beginning that rubbish means no guests, which in turn means no money, so even cigarette butts are brought back to Bukit Lawang, a refreshing change from other hikes in Indonesia.

Glamping es W tM al a ys ia

Gunung Leuser Medan National Park

Su m at ra

Tj. Kait

Gunung Leuser National Park Getting there Ever since Leonardo DiCaprio hit local and international news headlines with his short but sweet visit to North Sumatra’s Gunung Leuser National Park, I couldn’t stop thinking about the place. It wasn’t only the 41-year-old actor-cum-environmentalist who drew me to visiting this area, but the message he conveyed through his Instagram channel: that this was a special place that needed to be protected. The lowland forests of the Leuser ecosystem are still home to ancient elephant migratory paths followed by some of the last wild herds of Sumatran elephants, numbering less than 1,000. “But the expansion of Palm Oil plantations is fragmenting the #forest and cutting off key elephant migratory corridors,” DiCaprio said on his Instagram page, which is making it “more difficult for elephant families to find adequate sources of food and water.” DiCaprio’s self-named foundation supports the protection and conservation of the Leuser ecosystem. Gunung Leuser National Park covers an area of 7,927 km2 in Sumatra, and sits right on the border of North Sumatra and the Shariah-governed Aceh province. Along with Bukit Barisan Selatan and Kerinci Seblat national parks, Gunung Leuser 16

Indonesia expat issue 168

forms a World Heritage Site known as the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra. This is the only place in the world where the orangutan, elephant, rhinoceros and tiger still coincide. Today, the Leuser ecosystem exists at a shaky crossroads, however ecotourism is playing an important role in assisting in the conservation of this glorious stretch of pristine rainforest that is under siege from palm oil plantations and other development projects. Although you’re highly unlikely to encounter a tiger or rhinoceros in these forests unless you hike for many days deep into its depths, you will almost always have the chance to see orangutans on a two-day hike. These gorgeous creatures can sometimes even be seen right from the balcony of your accommodation in Bukit Lawang.

Bukit Lawang The gateway to the national park can best be described as a hyper tourist village. Bukit Lawang sits on the edge of Bahorok River, and has a cemented path large enough for two motorbikes that runs through its entirety. The river is the only thing that separates mankind from the wilderness.

Daily flights available with local airlines to Medan’s Kualanamu International airport. Flights also available from neighbouring Singapore or Malaysia. Ask your accommodation to arrange airport transfer (approximately Rp.600,000 one way) to Bukit Lawang, which takes around 3.5-4 hours.

Where to stay

Eco Travel Cottages or Riverside Guest House offer cheap and clean accommodation with fans. Riverside has a viewing deck with stunning views of Bukit Lawang and the forest. Eco Travel Cottages is situated right on the river.

What to bring

Sun block, mosquito repellent, headlamp, hiking shoes/trainers, long pants and long-sleeve top for the evenings, shorts and a light top for hiking, backpack, cash (the nearest ATM is half an hour away), camera.

What to do

Hiking, photography, orangutan watching, tubing, elephant excursion in Tangkahan, dancing to the live band on Saturday nights, relaxing.

Suitable for

Adventure junkies, animal enthusiasts, reggae fans.

We arrived at our riverside camp at 4.30pm; with accommodation made of bamboo and tarpaulin. Our guide, Ipong (we like to call him Mowgli as he was so in tune with the forest) made a fire while we delighted in a refreshing bathe in the crystal clear waters of the river, with virgin rainforest towering above us on either side. A team of cooks prepared a delicious dinner and we dined on the ground under the stars. It’s rare that we have the chance to experience pitch-black darkness – a welcome change from the incessant lights of the city. You will be provided with a yoga mat to sleep on, and although sleeping bags are provided, an extra set and a blow-up pillow wouldn’t hurt to act as a buffer from the hard ground beneath you. Waking up to the sights and sounds of the rainforest – and hundreds of macaques frolicking and being their cheeky selves – was nothing short of spectacular. After breakfast, we walked upriver to bathe in a stunning little waterfall that has enough pressure to rip your swimming gear off. Tired legs from the tough hike of the previous day were relieved when we were able to ‘tube’ back to the village on giant inflatable tyres, tied together to form a raft. Ipong made each one of us a leaf crown, donned tribal face paint made out of mud, and we were off downstream. Tubing gives you a completely different perspective of the forest, actually allowing you to see it rather than be right in the thick of it. Of all the trips I’ve done in Indonesia, this one takes the cake. It was truly special and an experience I plan to repeat again, next time visiting the elephant sanctuary at Tangkahan and possibly doing a longer seven-day trek into the jungle to rediscover my inner Mowgli. I urge other outdoor lovers to visit this other-worldly place before it’s too late.

EXPAT LIFESTYLE HISTORY Hans Rooseboom is a long-term resident of Jakarta. He has visited nearly all of Indonesia’s provinces and worked for many years in Ambon, Aceh, Manado and a number of smaller and larger towns on Java. He now enjoys a leisurely life, playing tennis most mornings and writing his blogs and other articles.

M E NTE N G PU LO

Field of Honour WORDS BY HANS ROOSEBOOM | PHOTOS BY P.H. VAN DER GRINTEN

The most astonishing experience when entering the Netherlands Field of Honour Menteng Pulo (Menteng Pulo Ereveld) is the silence. Just beyond the gate is the noisy hustle of Jalan Casablanca, but here, among the silent white headstones, the sound of motorcycles and scooters has given way to bird song.

In Indonesia, the CWGC takes care of six burial grounds with 2,605 identified and 657 unidentified graves. One of the cemeteries is located in Menteng Pulo, adjacent to the Netherlands Ereveld. The Netherlands Oorlogsgravenstichting-OGS (War Graves Foundation) has similar duties and responsibilities, but due to The Netherlands' neutrality during WWI, and its smaller size, on a very much reduced scale.

Fields of honour, or war cemeteries, with row upon row of nearly identical headstones – some slight differentiations denoting differences in gender or religion – on a sea of closely trimmed grass, are a fairly recent phenomenon. In view of the fact that mankind has fought wars for millennia, the first officially backed war graves dates back only 100 years. It was in September 1914, during the first months of the First World War, that the commander of the mobile unit of the British Red Cross, Fabian Ware, noticed the lack of any mechanism for marking and recording the graves of those fallen in battle. He created an organization within the Red Cross for that purpose. Six months later, Ware's work was given official recognition when the unit became part of the British Army as the Graves Registration Commission. Just in time, it could be argued, as by October 1915 the Commission had registered over 31,000 graves of British and Imperial soldiers, and 50,000 by May of the following year. Maybe it is the brutal effectiveness of the technologies used in modern warfare that uncovered the need for the registration of the vast number of casualties. The losses incurred on Napoleon's Russia campaign – of the 422,000 starting the campaign, a mere 10,000 returned to France – pale when compared to the totality of the two mondial wars of the 20th century. By the end of WWI in November 1918, a total of more than 9 million soldiers had been killed, while for WWII this figure is 20.9 million – two thirds, or 14.3 million, on the allied side and 6.6 million on the side of the German/Japanese axis.

throughout the world. The Commission also maintains, under arrangement with the pertinent governments, over 40,000 non-Commonwealth war graves and over 25,000 non-war military and civilian graves.

OGS maintains 50,000 graves worldwide, of which 25,000 are located in Indonesia on seven cemeteries on the island of Java. Originally there were 22 Dutch War Cemeteries spread throughout the archipelago. In the 1960s, however, at the request of the Indonesian government, the graves on the outer islands were exhumed and reburied in the seven cemeteries on Java. These cemeteries are: Ancol and Menteng Pulo in Jakarta; Candi and Kalibanteng in Semarang; Kembang Kuning in Surabaya; Leuwigajah in Cimahi; and Pandu in Bandung. The other 25,000 graves are spread over 50 countries on five continents.

In 1917 the British Graves Registration Commission was, by Royal Charter, turned into the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC). Its responsibilities are to commemorate those who have died during the designated war years (WWI and II) while in Commonwealth military service, or of causes attributable to service. In total the Commission is responsible for 1.7 million graves and memorials

The total number of Dutch casualties during the Second World War was 180,000 of which only 50,000 have found a place in a war grave. The remaining 130,000 died at sea, were namelessly buried in mass graves, cremated in concentration camps, or have been recorded as missing. The Ancol Field of Honour, containing more than 2,000 graves, is located on or near the place where those participating in the resistance against the Japanese were executed and buried in mass graves without any registration or recording of their names. Many of the Ancol graves headstones thus carry the inscription GEËXECUTEERD (Executed). In cases where the identities

of the executed were known but their remains could not be identified separately, a Collective Grave (VERZAMELGRAF) was erected with their names on the headstone. Headstones differ according to religion and gender. For Muslims a tapered slab with a conical top divided into three; Christians are buried under a cross, while a cross with rounded ends indicates a female Christian; Jewish headstones are adorned with the Star of David; and Buddhist stones are straight slabs with a rounded top. Unlike the great majority of public civilian cemeteries where grave sites are leased for a restricted period, the Fields of Honour are for evermore. A plaque on Ereveld Menteng Pulo states: THE LAND ON WHICH THE CEMETERY STANDS IS A GIFT FROM THE PEOPLE OF INDONESIA FOR THE PERPETUAL RESTING PLACE OF THE SAILORS, SOLDIERS AND AIRMEN WHO ARE HONOURED HERE. This is very fortunate as this restful but sad little corner of Jakarta produces strong emotions. Not only are the relatives of the interred, even third generations, emotionally affected, but casual visitors without any family ties are touched by its sheer expanse and the genuine and solemn atmosphere. Row upon row of white grave markers, with dates of death during a mere four years, and the far too many 'UNKNOWN' where a name should be, makes one realize how immensely wasteful war is. OGS has developed an excellent website with a searchable database of the names of deceased and the cemetery of interment. The database is accessible through https:// oorlogsgravenstichting.nl. CWGC operates a similar database on http://www.cwgc.org/ find-war-dead.aspx. In 2015 some 10,000 persons visited one or more of the seven OGS cemeteries.

issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT OUTREACH ART OF THE INDIES Karen Davis is a NYC artist and writer

Artpreciation: Preserving Culture through Tourism BY K AREN DAVIS

Artpreciation is a programme of art tours for small groups that includes lectures by art authorities, visits to galleries and museums, visiting hotels with extensive art collections and exclusive access to studios of prominent Balinese artists. The growth of spiritual and wellness tourism in Ubud has become a huge boom for the Bali tourism sector. Art is one of the original cultural attractions which has positioned Bali on the international tourism map since the 1930s but has yet to be realized or appreciated for its enormous tourism potential.

Venturing into the studios of internationally known artists Wianta, Magu Putra and Djirna adds an exciting element to the tours. Their collections of paintings, sculptures and installations in their studios are visually exhilarating and accompanied by fascinating individual stories. The artists take pleasure in openly sharing their knowledge about their inspirations, ideas, and technical processes.

Features of the Artpreciation tours start out with a visit to Ubud’s famous Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA), lectures on the history of Balinese and Indonesian art, and guided tours of acclaimed Balinese artists Made Wianta, Mangu Putra and Made Djirna’s studios. Founder of ARMA Agung Rai loves sharing his knowledge about his important collection of Balinese art, along with explaining architectural features of the museum and cultural distinctions of the Balinese people. Agung Rai was always drawn to the arts and started collecting in 1980. The diverse collection includes works by the legendary Gusti Nyoman Lempad and Ida Bagus Made Poleng, to influential foreign artists such as Walter Spies, the visionary artist who bridged western art with Balinese art. One can see the evolution of Balinese art at ARMA. “Artpreciation tours are both very interesting and important, not only for foreign visitors but for the Balinese as well,” says Agung Rai. 18

Indonesia expat issue 168

Agung Rai believes there is a lack of appreciation and understanding of the ideology, content and symbolism behind the traditions and the overall development of Balinese art. “It is important to have awareness of the religious, social and artistic values found in Balinese art which is a unique part of our heritage,” he adds, believing that Artpreciation tours are essential in educating people and assisting in the survival of Balinese art.

4 1 & 4. Visiting Made Wianta’s Studio | Photo by Artpreciation 2. Gusti Nyoman Lempad, The Witch and the Servant. Ink on paper, sold for Rp.120,000,000. | Photo by Larasati 3. Agung Rai Art preciation host at ARMA Museum. | Photo by Richard Horstman

“Usually art collectors do not know where to begin,” says historian and art critic, Jean Couteau. “There is a huge amount of ‘art’ being made in Bali and an abundance of ‘galleries’ that makes it hard for collectors to make the right choices. Artpreciation makes their learning and selection process much easier.” There are several variations of Artpreciation tours available, providing full and half day tours, including hotel pick-up and delivery. The tour may begin with a presentation and lecture about the history of Balinese and Indonesian art or on how to collect and invest in Balinese art. This may be followed by a museum tour or a visit to an antique or contemporary art collector. Lunch at a fine dining venue will be next on

the agenda, where you can continue your conversation with the tour presenter. The day ends with a visit to an artist’s studio and transportation back to your hotel. In addition, ARMA offers cultural festivals and workshops such as woodcarving, cooking classes, batik and offering making. There are daily dance performances by the best Bali dance companies and lectures on Balinese culture are held regularly at Warung Kopi. Children’s dance and gamelan classes are also offered, as is a Sunday morning model painting class. Spacious rooms are available at the ARMA resort and spa in a tranquil enclave of lush Balinese gardens with restaurant and spa services of top quality. ARMA believes in involving visitors and guests in the beauty and the culture which makes Bali such a unique destination. Artpreciation is a welcome addition to the Bali tourism sector and an asset to cultural preservation, perfect for art lovers, art collectors and those with a curiosity about the traditions and values inherent in the fine art of Bali and Indonesia. Alistair Spiers, founder of Artpreciation believes that “Indonesia’s culture is shrinking as rapidly as fast food and convenience stores open.” He believes financing the preservation of culture through tourism is the only way forward. “If we do not finance the preservation of culture through tourism we will lose it all together. We need art and cultural tourism in Bali to protect and support these important aspects of Indonesian life.”

Kenneth Yeung is a Jakarta-based editor

No Google Award, Just a Rape Ad BY KENNE TH YEUNG

Police in Lampung province have been left with egg on their faces after announcing they were to receive an award from Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin in recognition of their website. Google doesn’t hand out such awards, although it does carry an Indonesian advertisement promoting rape.

Jafar said YouTube and Google have already cracked down on terrorism-related content, so they should also block porn and violence. He said almost all perpetrators of recent sex crimes claimed to have been inspired and motivated after viewing porn on the Internet. Jafar did not seem to know that YouTube already blocks explicit porn.

Banners congratulating Lampung police for their ‘Google Award’.

Lampung, the southernmost province of Sumatra, has a proud police force, keen on collecting accolades. But its latest award was a joke. The hoax was apparently started by a web designer, identified in local media reports only as Thomas. Lampung Police claimed they once hired him to design and manage their website, tribratanewspoldalampung. info, but his work ceased about a year ago. On May 30, Thomas visited Lampung Police headquarters to propose some fresh work on the website. He also informed the provincial police chief, Brigadier General Ike Edwin, that Google had selected the site for an award for being the “most searched” of all police websites in Indonesia. He said an official letter from Google would soon be delivered. Shortly after the meeting, the proud police chief held a press conference to announce the prestigious award. Lampung Police spokeswoman Sulistyaningsih told reporters the award would be personally presented by Google’s two founders at a ceremony to be held in the US over June 10–15. Local journalists dutifully wrote up the exciting news. “Classy! Lampung Police Take Google Award,” trumpeted the Radar Lampung daily. Local government officials ran congratulatory advertisements, lauding the police. Sycophantic netizens also lavished praise upon the police, but others were sceptical. “Beware of scams, Mr Policeman, or the credibility of police will be damaged,” commented one Facebook user. Another offered to sell her pet unicorn, cheap, to those gullible enough to believe the news. On June 2, Lampung Police’s Information Technology Division contacted Google Indonesia’s Jakarta office for confirmation of the award, only to be informed that it knew nothing about the honour. Google Indonesia communications manager Jason Tedjasukmana said the veracity of the award was being cross-checked.

Google Play, has been running an advertisement in Indonesia promoting rape.

Nude Photos A little common sense by police would have made it abundantly clear that the award was nonsense. First, tribratanewspoldalampung.info is not the most popular police site in Indonesia. Not by a long shot. When its URL (site address) is entered into page ranking portal Alexa. com, it comes up with an Indonesian ranking of 93,769. Other local police websites in Indonesia have much higher rankings, such as those of East Java (14,621) and Makassar (17,955). Second, a basic Google search would reveal that Google’s founders do not hand out awards to most-visited or most-searched for websites. There is a Google Founders’ Award, but it is limited to the company’s internal projects. Just about any other type of Google award is a blatant scam. Such as emails claiming that “you have won £950,000 for using Google services”. If you attempt to claim such a prize, you will be instructed to pay vast sums in administrative and processing fees. It’s deeply worrying that police cannot conduct basic fact-checking before making public announcements. When the words “polisi Lampung” are typed into Google, the drop-down list of auto-complete suggestions reveals the most popular searches for Lampung Police are about suicide and nude photos. The suicide was of a handsome policeman, Syahir Perdana Lubis (24), who had over 24,000 followers on Instagram. He headed a local corruption investigation unit and allegedly killed himself in February because of a stomach ailment. The nude photo search stems from the release in 2013 of photos of the private secretary of the former provincial police chief. Police said the photos were released by the policewoman’s jilted former boyfriend, who was subsequently arrested. Records Brigadier General Ike Edwin, who became Lampung Police chief in January, is keen on accumulating honours. The Indonesia

“It’s deeply worrying that police cannot conduct basic fact-checking before making public announcements.” World Records Museum (MURI), which has been handing out all manner of insignificant records since its inception in 1990, in April inducted Ike as a record holder for being the regional police chief to spend 12 continuous hours handling public complaints outside the police office. Wow. In May, Ike received another MURI record, for having Indonesia’s first and largest provincial Anti-Drugs Task Force, which mostly comprises unpaid civilians and has 127,650 members. Commenting on the phony Google award, National Police spokesman Boy Rafli Ama said people should not be too quick to believe everything they hear, lest they fall victim to scammers. Call to Ban Google The Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI) on June 7 urged the government to shut down Google and its video-sharing subsidiary YouTube on the grounds that they are disseminating pornographic and violent content. “These sites are freely available to spread pornographic and violent content without any control whatsoever. Google and YouTube have a negative impact on Indonesia, if they cannot control the websites that they upload to the public,” ICMI secretary Jafar Hafsah said in a press statement. ICMI was created in 1990 to broaden Muslim support for the regime of thenpresident Suharto. It was supposed to serve as a mouthpiece for the regime, but ended up paving the way for greater Islamization of the political agenda.

He called on the government to support the development of a local search engine tailored for Indonesia. “I believe Indonesian innovators can make a search engine, such as Google and YouTube, only better. Of course with the support of the government.” Information and Communications Ministry spokesman Ismail Cawidu rejected the call to block Google and YouTube. He said a democratic country cannot oppose freedom of information. Indonesia is not like China, which filters internet content on a massive scale, he added. Moreover, he said, Google and YouTube carry educational content and do not contrive to promote violence and porn. Rape Although Google does not endorse violence or hand out awards to police websites, its digital content distribution platform, Google Play, has been running an advertisement in Indonesia promoting rape. The ad, which is for a news aggregator app called Baca, began appearing in May at the end of certain freeware games. Baca often resorts to sexually themed ads to lure potential users. The rape ad depicts a female with a beaten face and her arms raised, suggesting she is tied up. The text (translated here) reads: “A man raped his beloved roommate at night. The girl thought she was his lover, so she didn’t fight.” This content is not from a news article, but from a porn site. Indonesia’s patriarchal society has a problem with rape. This is evidenced by groups of leering men making catcalls at passing women, by politicians blaming rape victims for their choice of clothing, by a senior judge telling legislators that victims enjoy rape, by the fact that young girls are gang-raped. Blaming rape on the Internet, movies or alcohol is foolish. Those are just weak excuses by weak men. Families, schools, politicians, advertisers and the media need to stop objectifying women. Also, Google must stop running ads that promote rape. And police need to focus on stopping sexual violence, rather than chasing meaningless awards. issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT OUTREACH

Neil, Ferdi & the Cleaners Cecillia Bae attended Jakarta Intercultural School (JIS) for eight years and graduated in May 2015. She is now a student at Emory University.

In Spite of Injustice, Hope Still Shines from Cipinang Cecillia Bae talks to Tracy Bantleman, wife of incarcerated Neil Bantleman, who has just spent his second birthday behind bars, and discovers that support for the teachers and cleaners of the JIS trial is growing in numbers. BY CECILLIA BAE

already at the maximum capacity of around 3,000 prisoners, many of whom are serving lengthy sentences for drug offenses. “I try to visit at least four days a week,” Mrs. Bantleman relayed, after describing that each are allowed visiting hours of up to two hours a day, every week from Monday to Friday. May 30 marked Mr. Bantleman’s second birthday spent in prison. His greatest fear is failing to see his father again, due to his father’s declining health. Mrs. Bantleman stated, “Neil is demonstrating great patience and resilience, but being inside prison for a crime you did not commit and having to see your family, friends and the community suffer so greatly is a heavy burden.” She continued to explain that they simply wish for a just and speedy resolution to the case. “Ferdi is very worried about his wife and two girls as he cannot do the things he normally would to help support his family,” Mrs. Bantleman relayed. Not long after his imprisonment, Tjiong’s daughter soon lacked the financial support to regularly attend school and receive a stable education. Tracy Bantleman and her husband Neil, who is still incarcerated without due evidence

When his daughter repeatedly asked why he never came home, Ferdinant Tjiong responded that he was simply still working – a white lie that served as an easier option, rather than to outline the grave, inexplicable complexities of the chain of events that have taken place over the last two years. Heavy allegations of sexual abuse inundated communities around the world in April 2014; immediately, six janitorial staff members from the Jakarta Intercultural School (JIS) were shut behind bars. Not long after, Neil Bantleman, an assistant principal at the school’s elementary school campus, and Ferdinant Tjiong, a teaching assistant, were labelled suspects, instigating their abrupt incarceration. Many condemned these imprisonments as the immediate action to turn to, especially without any substantiating evidence in sight. However, an increasing amount of holes soon deflated the prosecution’s initial accusations: news of medical results testing negative from the victim for sodomy and herpes; children’s allegations that Bantleman had produced a magic stone from thin air as anaesthesia; and testimonies citing that the incident had occurred in rooms in the elementary school office entirely made of glass, visible from the outside from any angle. Furthermore, the group of now five janitors, who had initially confessed to the crime, recanted and accused officials of torture as a means of gathering the confessions. One of the six cleaners died in custody due to apparent suicide, but was cited by witnesses as physically battered. 20

Indonesia expat issue 168

Over a year after their seemingly unfounded incarceration, Bantleman and Tjiong were acquitted by the High Court and freed for six months. Although many harshly censured the nation’s judicial system for imprisoning eight people with no evidence to fit their crimes, the two teachers were rearrested after the Supreme Court overturned their acquittal in two days. The current situation lies with Bantleman and Tjiong, each serving 11 years in prison; four out of five remaining janitorial staff members serving eight years; and one member serving seven years – all for crimes that disputably never occurred. Presently, the Bantlemans and communities around them plan to exhaust every last legal course of action possible. Tracy Bantleman, wife of Neil Bantleman, explained that they anxiously await a written verdict from the Supreme Court. “After the verdict is received, the defence team will file and finalize the Judicial Review. This stands as our last legal option,” she told Indonesia Expat. However, the legal proceedings are not the only important aspect to this case. Currently, Bantleman and Tjiong share a cell in Lapas Cipinang, mustering all the strength they have to maintain their morale, and mental and physical strength; a personal mattress, toilet and mandi for bathing are the sole possessions they are permitted to own. According to Mrs. Bantleman, Lapas Cipinang did recently undergo general maintenance and renovations, including fixed lighting and additional painted areas. Yet, reality portrays the prison as congested,

When asked about the cleaners, Mrs. Bantleman replied, “I occasionally see the cleaners visiting with their families during my visits. I cannot imagine how hopeless they must feel in their situation.” In fact, ‘hopeless’ could be an understated depiction. Agun was forced to leave his seven-month pregnant wife, and never had the chance to hold his child outside of prison walls. Afrischa supported her aunt and sister, and was unable to walk down the aisle at her wedding. And Azwar, who once supported his mother and was engaged, died before he could ever see his mother, fiancée and the world outside of his prison cell.

Once being the highest number of individuals who were proponents of the imprisonments, the Indonesian public has also begun to realize the seemingly flawed and questionable allegations; several groups within the public have also demanded veritable information from the case. “The voices of these groups are getting stronger and louder; support inside Indonesia is at an all time high,” Mrs. Bantleman stated. One of the largest groups formed from the Indonesian public is Kawan8, a group of eight members united through a unanimous thirst to fight for justice and a voice for the seven behind prison bars. “All I heard was there was a rape situation at JIS, and the cleaners and teachers were suspects. I thought it was true at first,” Arita, a representative from Kawan8, told Indonesia Expat. Kawan8 has a looming, but simple goal: it strives to raise crowdfunding money of Rp.1 billion. Not a single cent is to be used for Kawan8’s interests; rather, it hopes to use the money for peninjauan kembali, or the final review of the court’s decision. Kawan8 hopes to raise their funds through a 180-day fundraising campaign including public vigils, a book launch, and lobbying for the help of professionals with expertise in similar cases. Arita explained, “We believe that society is most powerful. We have to get a lot of pressure from society, especially from university students, so we can unite our power to make it easier to press the government and the court.” While the crowdfunding money will be used for logistical items on the agenda to fight the judicial court, Kawan8 also strongly believes that the funds are essential to stand as a symbol for the struggle and victory

Bantleman and Tjiong share a cell in Lapas Cipinang, mustering all the strength they have to maintain their morale, and mental and physical strength; a personal mattress, toilet and mandi for bathing are the sole possessions they are permitted to own. Although the case has continued to evolve for two long years, communities have not paused in rallying for freedom. In fact, although originally a vast number of people believed the convicted to be indubitably guilty of their crime, many – if not most – of those aware of the case now fight in favour of those incarcerated. According to Mrs. Bantleman, nongovernment organizations such as Kontras and Mappi conducted a case study, concluding those imprisoned as innocent; furthermore, the Bantlemans have received support from Global Affairs in Ottawa, Canada, and the Canadian Embassy in Jakarta.

for justice. “The money we’re raising is a symbol that society acknowledges justice. Any amount of money, little or big, will show that society wants to contribute to fight for justice,” Arita illustrated. When asked why Kawan8 was formed and why the members decided to join the ongoing battle, Arita demonstrated her personal motive. “My heart was moved because the law system in Indonesia had injustice, especially to those with no power. There are so many people who pray and care, but so little who actually act. I wanted to be the one who did act. Innocent people are in jail for something they didn’t do. How long are we going to keep silent?”

A Better Health for Our Children BY GLOBAL ASSISTANCE & HE ALTHCARE MEDIA REL ATIONS

Global Assistance and Healthcare (GAH), a subsidiary of Fullerton Health, Asia’s leading provider of corporate healthcare solutions, continued their efforts of transforming healthcare in Asia by providing help and assistance not just to its members but also to the community. GAH specializes in providing healthcare services including TPA, Medical Assistance, Medical Evacuation, Medical Check-Ups and Remote Medical Services. GAH is Indonesia’s only complete corporate healthcare solutions. As part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programme – GAH have implemented the initiative Project “A Better Health for Our Children” in which time and resource are donated to assist our community. On Friday June 3, GAH commenced their commitment to provide healthcare needs to an orphanage for abandoned children known as Yayasan Kami Satu, located in Citeureup. All heads of GAH management including Managing Director for Indonesia Mr. Mario Babin were all active participants on the day, all united to give back to our community. Puskesmas Representative and midwife Mrs. Riski was in attendance giving support to GAH and Yayasan Kami Satu. Yayasan Kami Satu was first established in 2003 by founders and owners Mr. John and Mrs. Olga Waleleng and is called home to 31 abandoned children. The orphanage was Mrs. Olga’s vision to create a long lasting plan to provide care and support for abandoned children. Both Mr. John and Mrs. Olga shared this vision and after seven years of determination they turned it into a reality. With support from religious associations, local communities and donations, the children at Yayasan Kami Satu are able to attend either public or private schooling or learn a skilled trade such as Information Technology or motor mechanic skills, just to name a few.

The children ranging from 3-15 years of age and volunteers of Yayasan Kami Satu were provided free access to Physical Health Examinations from GAH’s qualified expert team of doctors and nurses. Thorough examinations including provision of appropriate medication and scheduled followup examinations were provided as part of GAH’s support of Yayasan Kami Satu’s worthy cause. “Today is about giving back to the community, about supporting people who try very hard and as seen are doing fantastic things for these children,” said Mr. Mario Babin, further stating, “We are proud to be a part of the big and beautiful family and to be able to grow together.” Both Mr. John and Mrs. Olga expressed how pleased they are to have the support of GAH. GAH’s commitment to the children of Yayasan Kami Satu is to create a long term healthcare relationship where priority is given to the children’s continuity of care in the provision of medicine, health education and medical examinations. “We want to assess the medical and health status for the children of Yayasan Kami Satu. To ensure healthcare needs are identified and appropriate treatment are provided,” stated Mr. Babin. Supply of medication and education by our qualified doctors and nurses were provided at Yayasan Kami Satu and will continue in the future. With a commitment of continued duty of care with future scheduled interactions such as further health examinations, dental examinations and health education, GAH is well on its way in fulfilling their commitment in a better health for the children of Yayasan Kami Satu.

PT. GLOBAL ASSISTANCE & HEALTHCARE Medical Centre and Evacuation Services CILANDAK COMMERCIAL ESTATE, Unit 111-GC KKO Raya, JAKARTA 12560, INDONESIA. Tel: +62 (21) 299 78 997 | Fax: +62 (21) 299 78 955 | Email: global@global-assistance.net | Website: www.global-assistance.net FULLERTON HEALTH www.fullertonhealth.com

TRANSFORMING ASIAN HEALTHCARE issue 168 Indonesia expat

EXPAT OUTREACH WORTHY CAUSES

F I O N A U N IT Y

Fundraising to the Top From climbing to the top of Mount Rinjani in Lombok, trekking in one of the world’s top ten toughest treks in Papua New Guinea, to gearing up for the coming charity walk in Lombok – Australian expat Fiona Forrest shares creative ways for campaigners to collect money that defy traditional fundraising.

“Hunger, sickness, loneliness and despair. Life without help, life without hope!” These are the words of fundraiser Fiona Forrest when describing the devastating reality of finding many children in Indonesia being neglected, left with little or no opportunities to overcome unpleasant conditions; something that she is determined to change. Originating from Adelaide, South Australia, Fiona Forrest along with her husband and two children arrived in Jakarta 11 years ago after completing their residence in Tanzania, Africa. Ever since calling Indonesia her home, Forrest has been involved in multiple fundraising activities as a way to help tackle social issues she was concerned about. But fundraising to Forrest is anything but ordinary. While others may rely on traditional fundraising efforts such as direct requests for donations, or using social media platforms, Forrest prefers to get involved in activities that maintain interest for both herself and potential sponsors. “My first Challenge was in 2012, Mount Rinjani Charity Climb. This was for the two Elisama Orphanages on Bali. This climb paid for a 265-metre security fence around the perimeter and for drilling a water bore including pumps, etc. to supply fresh water to Elisama Singaraja; it also paid for the education of 96 children from both orphanages.”

Dua Tangan Cukup

fate already decided for them for whatever reasons and through no fault of their own,” Forrest laments.

supported an orphanage to set up a fiveyear education plan. Forrest is back on duty this year to take down Lombok in a 400km charity walk where she will be traversing the island, starting from Lokok Aur, Karang Bajo Bayan Village, North Lombok, to the east and off to Senaru where she will be joined by a group of trekkers to start the second part of this fundraising, a 3,726-metre climb of Mount Rinjani. Forrest admits that this Great Lombok Walk, which will be held in October, will be challenging because Lombok’s coast is largely comprised of hills. But regardless, she has made this charity walk a priority this year. Apart from these adventurous journeys, Forrest reveals that she also does hold easy and relaxed fundraising that requires less energy and preparation, such as baking Australian meat pies and hosting Australia Day parties with auctions and raffles. When asked about the specialty of her campaigns, Forrest remains humble yet convinced that she does her best to make them fruitful: “I try to make them as exciting as I can. All of my fundraisers are the result of hard, dedicated work. Hopefully people see the reality as it is and then see it backed up in the results of our hard slog.”

Hoping to recreate the success of her first challenge, she participated in more the following years. In 2013, Forrest set forth to Papua New Guinea for a 12-day jungle trek, which is considered among the hardest trails in the world. For this challenge, she gathered a substantial amount of money to fund a recreational area in a Bali orphanage, complete with trees, seats and playground.

To further achieve her objectives, Forrest established her own NGO, the Fiona Unity Foundation. Her dedication to start the NGO was inspired by two orphanages she visited one day in Bali, where a group of volunteers provided a place for unfortunate children to live in a healthy and safe environment. Moved by what she discovered in Elisama Orphanage, Forrest felt the responsibility to do something and decided to run her own NGO to support more foundations:

And later in 2014, she walked 450km for 15 days without a support vehicle around Bali. On this first solo challenge, Forrest

“There are so many abandoned, orphaned, sick and disabled children in Indonesia that have little or no opportunities, their

Today, Fiona Unity Foundation has collaborated with numerous institutions, and with the help of fundraisers the NGO is seeing more and more positive results. Aside from contributing to children’s education, the orphanages and institutions Fiona Unity works with are now supported with equipment and facilities, like the project in Tanjung, northern Lombok, where they are provided with land to be developed into an office; a space for storing wheelchairs which have also been donated all the way from Australia; as well as accommodation for families when visiting or leaving hospital. Forrest emphasizes that NGOs should also hold on to both “honesty and transparency” as the keys to running a successful campaign because sadly, there have been many corrupt and dishonest organizations here in Indonesia which might hinder fundraisers and campaigners alike from gaining the people’s trust. For that reason, she asks organizers to always be open to both the public and sponsors: “Show them how we are making a difference together. I also try to encourage people to visit the institutions I support. That way they can see 100 percent where their donation is going and what a difference they are making.” Asked what advice she can give for solo fundraisers, she mentioned one word which people today might lack: focus. “Once you have your focus, don't let go! Sometimes I have come up against a roadblock and it would have been easy to give up. Staying focused and sticking to your plan. And patience, which you need plenty of, especially here in Indonesia. If you believe in something hard enough it will happen,” Forrest closes. For more information please visit www.fionaunity.org

Actions From Across The Archipelago

Disabled Surfer Partakes in Risky Challenges to Raise Funds for Bionic Legs Surfing is a challenging sport as it is, let alone for people with disabilities. Yet surfer Bruno Hansen has crashed down barriers to prove that even without the use of his legs, he can still continue doing what he loves in life, which is ride the waves. In one of our recent articles we interviewed Bruno Hansen, an expat based in Bali who shared his brave and moving journey to continue surfing despite losing the use of both of his legs in 1994 when he was involved in a horrendous carjacking. After admitting himself into a rehab facility and receiving medical consultations for five years, he finally made peace with his condition and focused on starting a new page in his life. Many years later, Hansen succeeded at surfing again, and has continued being a sea captain and a diver. He even became the current World Champion of the World Adaptive Surfing Championship.

Indonesia expat issue 168

costing £70,000. This walking device has proved to help double amputees tackle their disabilities, which will certainly help Hansen in realizing his dream of walking again. To return the favour of those who would like to help him make his dream come true, Hansen plans to express his gratitude by partaking in three massive challenges: Race to Alaska, Duke’s Ocean Festival and ISA World Adaptive Championships. So, would you be keen to see him take down all three?

But regardless of all his great achievements, Hansen still hopes to be able to experience the simple things that we take for granted every day: standing and walking with both of our legs. To fulfil Hansen’s dreams, his friends have set up a crowdfunding page for him to purchase a pair of bionic legs

To donate for Hansen’s bionic legs you can choose the following platforms: https://www.gofundme.com/26m5ejg https://www.facebook.com/brunocean13 http://bit.ly/1RPF85M

President Jokowi one of Twitter’s top 50 ‘twiplomacers’ The world leaders using social media with the most success are US President Barack Obama and his White House team, Mauricio Macri (Argentinian President) and Justin Trudeau (Canadian Prime Minster). Meanwhile, Indonesia President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo (@Jokowi) is recognized as one of the most effective leaders on Twitter with 5.08 million followers (as of June 1, 2016) and an average of 1,224 retweets.

Jakarta Over the last five years, Twitter has become the ultimate channel for digital diplomacy for world leaders and governments. It is the prime social network used by heads of state and government in 173 countries, representing 90 percent of all United Nations (UN) member states, according to Burson-Marsteller’s Twiplomacy study, an annual global survey of world leaders on social media.

Leafwell Catering x dedicates revenue to children Jakarta Leafwell Catering is a five-day healthy catering programme focusing on weight loss and overall health, that delivers to your doorstep.

Borobudur Hotel pleases guests with special treats during Ramadhan

Between June 13 - 24, Leafwell Catering will be collaborating with Shout Out, a digital charity founded by Dita Soedarjo and Tatjana Saphira. The programme will see 5 percent of total revenue go towards this charity organization, which focuses on children’s education, ranging from giving scholarships to buying books.

Bali Bali International Film Festival (also known as BALINALE) recently launched a series of educational roadshows in conjunction with Prestasi Junior Indonesia. The roadshow hosted a talk show on a career in film encompassing many of the related creative industries and the opportunities offered; fashion, literature, music, technology, art, design, etc., held in Denpasar at the beginning of the month. BALINALE is celebrating its landmark 10th anniversary from 24-30 September at CINEMAXX at Lippo Mall Kuta in Bali. The festival presents all genres of fiction, documentary, feature and

The team is currently developing its 2016 festival programme, which will build upon last year’s momentum and success that screened a record 105 films of mixed genres from 26 countries, and saw a general increase in film submissions, as well as a notable expansion of Indonesian programming and film industry involvement. The festival will hold a Roadshow of Workshops in Bali, Bandung, Jakarta and other locations leading up to festival season, along with number of fringe events which will “bookend” the week’s standard lineup of filmmaker forums, film receptions, opening night, closing and award parties. BALINALE 2016 call for general submissions of feature, documentary, or short films are being accepted through Withoutabox and Film Freeway.

This year, Hotel Borobudur Jakarta offers attractive packages in celebration of the Muslim holy month of Ramadhan by providing a promo for guests to share the joy with loved ones.

Bogor Cafe will present guests with an exotic array of cuisine from the Middle East and North Africa, from Morocco, Lebanon and Egypt during the fasting month at a price of Rp.388,000++per person. Special offers are also available at the hotel’s Japanese restaurant, Miyama, and Chinese restaurant, Teratai.

Pushing the boundaries on healthy food, packages are priced at a modest Rp.800.000 for a weekly package; subscribers will get nutritionally counted meals, lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday. For more information, visit: www.leafwell.com

BALINALE to host series of workshops in the lead up to film festival

Jakarta

Hotel Borobudur Jakarta brings the special dishes, Egyptian Eid Cookies or Kahk, a special dessert that is associated with happy occasions in the Egyptian traditions. These mouthwatering cookies appear on the Egyptian Muslims’ table yearly during the Ramadhan and Eidul-Fitr period to enliven the holy month. Kahk pastry dough is made from a combination of sweet dough with almonds, raisins, palm dates and dry fruits. The initiative came from General Manager Patrick Beck who spent five years in Egypt and particularly liked kahk. This year, kahk will help to enliven the warmth of your Ramadhan at Hotel Borobudur Jakarta.

Once a month, the Leafwell x Collaboration programme sees Leafwell Catering work together with a big name restaurant or organization to create a weekly programme together, so people at home can experience this unique blend of nutrition and satisfaction.

short entertaining, thought-provoking, independent and award-winning films from Indonesia and around the world. Open Air Cinema set under the magical Bali night skies, Student Film Program and an annual Children’s Charity Event are provided free of charge as an important part of the festival’s commitment to the community.

President Jokowi is one of a number of politicians who suspended his Twitter activity during non-election periods, but then reactivated his account as the next election campaign approached. Since his inauguration, Jokowi has utilized his Twitter account as a key medium through which to share the government’s performance in development, security, law, social, politics, and culture. In August 2015, he became the first president in Asia-Pacific to conduct a Periscope session (as @presidenjokowidodo) during the local festival of #KarnavalKhatulistiwa (Equator Carnival) in Pontianak, West Kalimantan. In January of this year, Jokowi took to Twitter to condemn the terrorist attacks on Indonesia’s capital city Jakarta.

Foodpanda celebrates fourth anniversary Jakarta On June 2, at its fourth anniversary, food delivery service Foodpanda was able to reflect upon its accomplishments over the past four years while also regarding its future challenges and successes. Managing Director Victor Delannoy illustrated Foodpanda’s rapid developments during the past four years; for instance, because of the lack of food delivery services apart from very few restaurant delivery services, Foodpanda progressed with its own technology in order to dispatch its own riders. As for the increasing amount of competition due to newly emerging companies such as GO-JEK, Delannoy cited this extension also as an opportunity, due to the naturally rising popularity of food delivery. Delannoy explained that Foodpanda is aiming to differentiate itself from competing services. “We are focusing on customer experience, premium

restaurants and speed of delivery,” he relayed. When reflecting on Foodpanda’s chief successes over the past four years, Delannoy responded that its greatest accomplishment would be “developing the most reliable and trustworthy delivery company in Jakarta.” On the other hand, when asked about his future aims for Foodpanda, Delannoy replied that Foodpanda is focusing on obtaining the best restaurants in Jakarta to join its platform. More specifically, for its fifth year, its goal is to complete its inventory and acquire an even speedier delivery service, with its basis in excellent customer experience. issue 168 Indonesia expat

* Answers in the next edition!

CROSSWORD

Across

1. Means of breaking down walls etc (9,3) 9. Functional part of body (5) 10. James, film director or journalist 11. Heap (4) 12. Pork joint (5,3) 14. Scots girl – film dog (6) 15. Des – agency (6) 18. Scottish breed of cattle (8) 20. Wally (4) 22. Chivalrous (7) 23. Provide money for (5) 24. Art society (5,7)

DOWN

2. Midday prayer (7) 3. Military vehicle (4) 4. Cooking instructions (6) 5. Many (8) 6. Less frequent (5) 7. Sophisticated socialite (3-5-4) 8. Double (12) 13. Whiskey and soda with ice (8) 16. Norfolk or Wessex, for example (7) 17. Amatory (6) 19. Receive and pass on (5) 21. Curve (4)

ANSWERS OF ISSUE 167 ACROSS—1. Willy nilly 7. Indiana 8. Organ 11. Glow worm 13. Wicket 15. Artery 17. Idea 21. Yeast 22. Taxicab 23. Dilly dally DOWN—1. Wedge 2. Leaf 3. Yearly 4. Ironware 5. Lughole 6. Wishy washy 9. Namby pamby 12. Teetotal 14. Chapati 16. Skated 19. Duchy 20. Axel

I’d like a grande double shot moccha ‘tubruk’ frappucino please. Spotted by Keza. Send your funny pictures to letters@indonesiaexpat.biz

IS MADE POSSIBLE BY:

Indonesia expat issue 168

Simon is the person his parents warned him about.

THE TV SET Transgenderism has been hitting the global headlines of late, and Indonesia is a nation with its own cross-dressing traditions. BY SIMON PITCHFORTH

Whilst returning home recently after a particularly hedonistic evening, my Uber hansom cab rolled the canal flyover that connects Menteng with the skyscrapers of Jl. Rasuna Said. From the flyover, I observed several tradesmen on another gruelling nightshift plying their wares. Those of you who have also seen these fellows before whilst driving south of an evening will no doubt be aware that the gentlemen in question were what are colloquially known as ladyboys, transvestites or transgendered folk, if you will. Looks like a lady...in fact it's a chap.

hazardous way of life to say the least, and many have fallen prey to the scourge of AIDS.

The area of town in question is known as Taman Lawang and extends from the aforementioned flyover into the pleasant, leafy environs of Menteng. I have often speculated about this somewhat peculiar arrangement. Other cities and countries make sure that street walking, particularly that of the genderbending variety, is confined to the cheesy side of town. Menteng though is one of the poshest, priciest and most gentrified districts in the city. Ex-President Suharto was the area's most famous resident, but a number of other powerful politicians, businessmen and generals are also domiciled here. I wonder how these high rollers feel when they leave their expensive pied-à-terres of an evening, only to be confronted by gentlemen in lipstick and skirts attempting to press the flesh of passing curb crawlers.

Moreover, with increasingly militant Islamic groups taking to the streets, Indonesia's gender and sexual minorities perhaps face an uncertain future, and a more sexually mature and egalitarian republic still seems a long way off. Indonesia’s waria have of late suffered increasing persecution from the ascendant Sharialaw lobby and its strict Saudi Wahabist creeds (which, according to many sources, are being propagated over here with hard Saudi petrodollars). Beauty shows such as the Miss Waria pageant, for example, have previously been broken up by the FPI (Islamic Defenders Front).

Homosexuality is largely frowned on by Indonesia’s nominally Islamic population, of course. Nevertheless, ladyboys, commonly known as bencong, banci or waria here, are generally treated as figures of fun and are surprisingly visible in daily life and culture. Waria are viewed as society’s clowns; laughingstocks for people to point and laugh at. In fact, as I mentioned in a previous piece on LGBT issues, transgenderism stretches back deep into the roots of Indonesian history and the crossdressing palace guards of the Bugis of Sulawesi. Indeed these antediluvian transvestites predated the arrival of both Christianity and Islam to Indonesian shores. Your modern-day Indonesian transvestite/ transgendered citizen, however, is definitely not treated as an equal member of society and would be unlikely to find employment as a palace guard. She will often suffer discrimination from both family and neighbours, as the obligation to enter into a heterosexual marriage is strong in Indonesia. She will also be pretty restricted in terms of a career. Many waria can be found working in hair salons or as street-musician figures of ridicule, or, of course, walking the streets of Menteng and other similar districts at night. The latter of which is a

Also, she-males often star in Indonesian TV shows, which demonstrates the socially ambivalent status that these she-hes have here. Indeed, these days an increasing number of transgendered Indonesians have respectable jobs, making a living as designers, sociologists and the like. However, widespread social prejudice means that these trans-pioneers remain the exception rather than the rule.

All of this contrasts strongly with the veritable sexual revolution that has taken place in the West over the last couple of decades. Gay marriage has seen its rainbowcoloured thread being woven fully into society’s rich tapestry, proving that homosexuals can be just as dully conservative as their heterosexual peers. Meanwhile, over the last couple of years, it has been the turn of the transgender community to grab their civil rights firmly by the scruff of the neck of the…ahem. And so it has come to pass that Caitlyn (née Bruce) Jenner, the pater-(and I guess mater)-familias of a family which has become inordinately famous for doing nothing, has been controversially named ‘Woman of the Year’. Meanwhile, US Republicans are getting all worked up about transgendered individuals using public restrooms (although recent scandals suggest that it is, in fact, Republican lawmakers themselves who represent the greater danger in this environment). It’s not really about the bathrooms for these conservative US types though, is it? Just as it wasn’t really about the water fountains half a century ago, but I digress. Other voices, such as those of irascible feminist Germaine Greer, have been somewhat more cagey and cautious regarding the issue of men who now claim that they are women. While acknowledging that the transgender community should be able to assume their full civil rights and live lives free from persecution, some

have noted that those of a transgendered disposition often have identity problems, which pretty crude gender reassignment surgery doesn’t ultimately address, leaving many post-oppers somewhat depressed and disillusioned. Sexuality is mental first and physical second, and if the mental element isn’t in place, then the physical part cannot happen. One piece of evidence in support of this thesis is male impotence and erectile dysfunction, which only has a physiological cause in around 10 percent of cases, the other 90 percent being caused by stress and various psychological issues. In this situation, perhaps a slightly less celebratory and more reflective tone could be adopted. These are matters of vigorous ongoing debate and you may strongly disagree with this assessment before aiming a judiciously thrown stiletto in my direction. Back in Indonesia, there have been some more encouraging signs. Suara Kita (Our Voice) is Indonesia’s foremost LGBT NGO and has become a vibrant media portal in recent years, hosting workshops on journalism, documentaries, writing and photography, and offering hope to many who have to endure the country’s prevailing homophobia. According to Suara Kita, Indonesia represents a kind of middle ground; the country is still miles away from the US and Europe in terms of LGBT rights, but things here aren’t nearly as bad as they are in some African or Middle Eastern countries. Indeed, transgendered Indonesians of a more religious bent have even set up special prayer groups here, despite the prevailing view that there are only two nonnegotiable gender identities under Islam. In this context, many transgendered Indonesians are not interested in gender reassignment surgery, asserting that they were born as men and must return to God as men. Indeed, many waria have ideas about womanhood that modern feminists would find highly reactionary, and would love to find a real man to look after and play the traditional wife to. Traditions aside, this is obviously the Internet age and so, to finish on a more technologically cutting-edge note, I thought that a quick trawl through some of Indonesia’s transgender dating sites would be in order. So, if anyone is interested in a “young shemale fropessional [sic]”, a “super mega tool” or a little “versatile deeply sucking” then I suggest you swallow your pride (so to speak) and fire up your browser. Onwards and upwards, chaps. Tally ho.

issue 168 Indonesia expat

If you want your event to be posted here, please contact +62 (0) 21 2965 7821 or e-mail: events@indonesiaexpat.biz

EVENTS

JAKARTA Arts & Culture

Salihara International Performing Arts Festival 8 October – 6 November 2016 Salihara International Per forming A r ts Festival is back to bring you more local and international arts groups form various areas including music, dance and theatre. This year, the festival will be showcasing 14-15 groups from the nation, as well as Australia and the United States. Among the talents featured, three percussion groups will be highlighting the music section; Indonesian choreographers Eko Supriyanto and Fitri Setyaningsih will be taking the lead in the dance section; and the Kalanari Theatre Movement f rom Jog ja kar ta will be taking the theatre stage. International groups include the dance group Benoît Lachambre & Montréal Danse from Canada, theatre group She She Pop from Germany, and composer Lukas Ligeti from Austria. For more information please visit www. salihara.org

International Day of Yoga 18 June 2016 Come and celebrate the I nt er n a t ion a l D ay of Yog a where health enthusiasts will benefit from getting the ultimate yoga experience directly from experts. Learn new poses and enjoy a healthy morning under the g uidance of Indonesian yoga teachers, and follow the lead of Indian yoga masters. The event w ill take place at Gelora Bung Karno and starts at 6am. The International Day of Yoga is presented by the Indian Embassy and will also be held in other places around Indonesia like Bali, Timor Leste, Medan and Jogjakarta. For more information please visit www. indianembassyjakarta.com

Exhibition: Suara Hati 12 May – 30 June 2016 The Erasmuis Huis is working together with Suara Hati in an exhibition which combines music, photography and ethnic dance in a campaign to stop violence against women. Through the mediation of art, Suara Hati attempts to raise awareness about domestic violence. Every year, nearly 300,000 cases of violence take place in Indonesia. A number of Indonesian actresses

Indonesia expat issue 168

generation, the conference invites a number of speakers, including Ben Soebiako (CMO of KapanLagi Network), Achmad Zaky (CEO of Bukalapak.com), and governor of Jakarta Basuki Tjahaya Purnama. The conference will take place at Kartika Expo, Balai Kartini. For more information please visit www3.kiostix.com

and businesswomen will be posing as victims of domestic violence. The exhibition will take place at Erasmuis Huis. For more information please visit http:// erasmushuis.nlmission.org

Annie the Musical 2 – 14 August 2016 One of the world’s most famous musicals, Annie, is coming to Jakarta! The musical, which is based on the book by Thomas Meehan, is known for songs li ke ‘Maybe’, ‘It ’s t he Ha rd Knock Life’, and the one that children normally sing along to, ‘Tomorrow’. This August, fans can watch the live version of the film in Ciputra Artpreneur in a total of 16 performances. For more information please visit http:// anniejakarta.ciputraartpreneur. com

Leisure We The Fest 2016 13-14 August 2016 The annual summer music festival We The Fest is back, bringing you bigger international talents. The festival, which also include arts, fashion and food, will entertain music fa ns w ith their most exciting line-up so far. Fans will be able to watch music sensations like Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Mark Ronson, The Temper Trap, and the 1975. The two-day event will be held at Parkir Timur Senayan and is presented by Ismaya Live. Tickets are available both online and offline, with price starting from Rp.720,000. For more information please visit http://wethefest.com Conference

Jakarta Fair 10 June and 17 July 2016 Known as the oldest and the most complete exhibition in Southeast Asia, Jakarta Fair is back this year in the midst of Ramadhan. Opened by President Joko Widodo, the exhibition aims to attract as many as 5 million visitors with at least Rp.5 billion worth of transactions. With the theme ‘Ayo Lebaran Bersama di Jakarta Fair’, which translates to ‘Let’s Celebrate Eid Mubarak Together at Jakarta Fair’, the 38-day exhibition will invite g uests to enjoy shopping in various booths, music concerts by a number of local musicians, and exciting carnivals. For more information please visit http:// www.jakartafair.co.id Music

Selena Gomez Revival Tour 23 July 2016 Singer and actress Selena Gomez will be in Jakarta this year to promote her second solo album Revival, which made it to the top of the Billboard 200 chart last year. This will mark Gomez’ f i r s t c onc er t i n Indone sia . Gomez started her career in film, television and music at a young age. Fast forward to 2016, she has sold more than 45 million tracks with hit singles like Come & Get It, Good for You and Same Old Love. Gomez will greet fans in Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE), BSD, Tangerang. Tickets a r e now on s a le . For mor e information please visit http:// selenagomezjakarta.com

Travel Fair invites corporations, travel agents, hotel and resort chains, convention planners and more players involved in the industry to engage with one another. Through networking events, buyers and exhibitors will get the chance to interact and get involved in B2B sessions. The travel fair will also be attended by exhibitors and buyers from all around the globe, taking place in Nusa Dua. For more information please visit www.bbtf.or.id

Grand Leadership Seminar with John Maxwell 22 July 2016 Join the Gra nd L ea dership Seminar to discover new perspectives of learning leadership from John Maxwell. The spea ker, coa ch, who is also a New York bestselling author, is named one of the world’s most inf luential leader exper ts by Business Insider and Inc. Magazine. In 2014, John C. Maxwell was named as the popular leadership and management expert in the world. The seminar will take place at The Kasablanka Exhibition. For ticket purchase please visit www. kiostix.com

Young on Top National Conference 13 August 2016 This year, the Young on Top National Conference (YOTNC) will be held for the sixth time to celebrate the young generation of Indonesia. With the theme ‘It’s Millennials Time to Lead this Nation’, YOTNC hopes to inspire the young to become f uture leaders of Indonesia. Commonly referred to as the Y Generation, young people are identified with their association with technology, the Internet and entertainment. To lead the discussion on this Y

Bambino Preschool Summer Camp 27 – 29 July 2016 Parents, prepare your kids for a learning journey at Bambino International Preschool with numerous activities that will truly be memorable for your children. Through this year's theme, ‘Funtastic Future Me’ the summer school will give children a chance to think about what they might want to do when they grow up, which helps to motivate them and encourage their imaginations. Even something as simple as a walk around school can open their eyes to all of the jobs there are in a school. The Summer Camp is only available at Patra Kuningan campus, Jl. Jaya Mandala No. 88, Patra Kuningan, South Jakarta. For reservations and inquiries feel free to call or email 021-837-83783 bambino@bambinopreschool. com or visit our website atwww. bambinopreschool.com Health

The Color Run by CIMB Niaga 7 August 2016 CIMB Niaga is holding The Color Run to promote a healthy lifestyle. Founded in March 2011, the event invites people to join this paint race which so far has been hosted in over 200 cities and 40 countries every year all around the globe. Racers will get to experience running like never before with a dose of fun, interactivity, and also paint. For more information please visit http://stage.thecolorrun.co.id/

you will meet the wild horsemen of Mt. Bromo, explore Jogjakarta and Borobudur and attend the Ramayana ballet. Next it’s on to Malang, where you will stay at the Tugu, one of most beautiful historic hotels in Indonesia and a photography project in its own right. You will travel by jeep to Mt. Semeru (Java’s highest peak) for a sunrise shoot, visit the charming Tengger villages, explore the Dieng Plateau and enjoy another historic Tugu hotel stay in Blitar, plus a few surprises along the way. An experience not to be missed with one-on-one personalized photography tuition. www.davidmetcalfphotography. com/java-photo-tour/

SURABAYA & BANDUNG

BANDUNG Arts & Culture

Music

Boyz II Men Live Indonesia 17-18 August 2016 Indonesia fans of the vocal group Boyz II Men will rejoice as the trio will be visiting for their ‘Boyz II Men Indonesia Tour 2016’. In August, Shawn Stockman, Nathan Morris and Wanya Morris will be taking over two stages in the country, one in Surabaya on August 17 and one the next day in Bandung. The four-time Grammy winning group has been known for making R&B music with hit singles like ‘I’ll Make Love to You’, ‘End of the Road’, and ‘One Sweet Day’. In Surabaya, the event will take place at Dyandra Convention Center, and the next day at Eldorado stage in Bandung. T ic ke t s pr ic e r a ng e s f r om Rp.250,000 – Rp.2,000,000. Tickets are available at http:// tiketapasaja.com/event/boyz-iimen-indonesian-tour-bandung

BALI Arts & Culture

JAVA Photography JAVA Photography Tour 16-23 June 2016 Join professional photographers David Metcalf and Mark Rayner on a fa nt a stic photog raphy workshop and tour of Java where

Ubud Village Jazz Festival 2016 12-13 August 2016 Ubud Village Jazz Festival is back for its fourth year to bring you the best talents in jazz music. The festival is held to assemble both local and international jazz artists to promote ‘Jazz education in Indonesia’. For tickets and more information please visit www.ubudvillagejazzfestival.com

Bali and Beyond Travel Fair 2016 22-26 June 2016 With the development tourism in Indonesia, the Bali and Beyond

Film Screening: Suck Me Shakespeer 18 June 2016 G oet he Inst it ut ’s A r t house Cinema returns w ith a f ilm screening, this month showing a German comedy directed by Bora Dagtekin. The movie tells the story of Zeki Muller, who is in search of loot from his last robbery. After spending 13 months in prison, he applies for a job as a janitor at a school where the money is buried under the new gym. To his surprise, Zeki lands the job as a supply teacher and the rest is a wild farce which will certainly entertain. For more information please visit www. goethe.de

JAKARTA Networking Jakarta Business Networkers Make the right connections to help develop and grow your business over bre a k fa s t . At Ja k a r t a Business Networkers (JBN), all attendees are encouraged to help other attendees by exchanging referrals and introducing them to their target audience. JBN is all about helping you grow your business. Promote your business, personal brand or portfolio each week to the rest of the attendees and explain to the group the type of referrals you would like to receive. JBN professional networking sessions are from 7-8.30am every Tuesday at Sapori Deli, Fairmont Jakarta, and Thursday at Mercantile Athletic Club, WTC, Sudirman. RSVP: info@jbnetworkers.com

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

SERVICED OFFICE • VIRTUAL OFFICE • MEETING FACILITIES • COMPANY INCORPORATION Located in Kuningan Business District, integrated with shopping Mall and residential enable you for a more convenient and easier way of doing business in Jakarta. With flexible lease terms, ready to use office suites, immediate office setup, daily receptionist and maintenance services, 88 Service Office leaves you free to run your business without the day to day hassles of managing a conventional office space. "At 88 Service Office, we enable you to focus on your core business with friendly professionalism and affordable flexibility"

Jl Raya Casablanca Kav 88 Phone: 021-29631688 E-mail: sales@88office.co.id Web: www.88office.co.id

BantuHelp.com – An online trusted platform to connect domestic workers & employers in Jakarta. Have a look!

Santa Fe provides moving services — International, domestic, local & office, document storage & management services, real estate, property management & maintenance, orientations, visa & immigration and home contents insurance.

• Staff create their profile online • Look for long & short term help • Check previous references • Post your testimonial online • Help staff find new employment • Staff courses will be offered

Call us Jakarta: +62 21 2961 2990 Balikpapan:+62 542 713 4334 Bali: +62 811 889 2445 Surabaya: +62 812 304 4775 or E-mail: indonesia@santaferelo.com and visit our website www.santaferelo.com for more information

Spread the word!

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

TO BOOK SPACE ON THIS DIRECTORY PAGE CALL: 021 2965 7821

issue 168 Indonesia expat

HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL? Looking for something to buy? Looking for staff? Selling property? Or need a place to live? Why not place your classified ad with Indonesia Expat! Your classified will be placed once for 2 weeks online and once in our printed version which has a circulation of 16.500 copies bi-weekly.

Next deadline: 22 June 2016 CONDITIONS Personal classifieds Commercial classifieds

Free of Charge (50 words max) Rp. 100,000 (0–50 words) Rp. 200,000 (50–100 words)

Property listings are considered as Commercial. Adding an image incurs an extra charge of Rp.150,000. Business Listings can only be placed on the Business Listings page (p.30) Send in your classifieds to ads@indonesiaexpat.biz

JAKARTA Automotive

Religiously maintained by one owner. Full service record, many parts new. Rp. 70 million. Kijang LSX. Philip +62(0)8519125171 or email philpin@yahoo.com Toyota Avanza for Sale: Diplomatic Plates ( Duty Free ) 2011,automatic Transmission; 1500cc, Mileage 41,000km. color silver; very good condition, and very reliable; new battery,ac. and radio and tape; price: $7,500 Negotiable; plz. call/sms +62(0)85772566371 or Email at: maktabifard@yahoo. com FOR SALE: Kijang Innova 2.0 E (Dec 2012). Very low mileage 23,000km. Manual / Petrol. Leather seat covers (removable). Excellent condition throughout - one expat owner from new, no children / pets and cleaned daily by our driver. New battery installed April 2016. Taxed until November 2016. Annual service at Toyota . No issues - barely used. Includes floor mats. Price - Rp 165 million. Please ask if you have any questions. +62(0)81219846685. See link for more info / pictures http://bit.ly/1U6LXV0 For Sale: 2015 Toyota NAV1 2.0 V LUX. Colour: Pearl White. Mileage: 11,000km. 7 Seats/DVD player. Last Service: 10,000km.

Indonesia expat issue 168

First Registered New: October 2015. I nc lude d i s a n e x t r a maintenance package, valid to 40,000km or November 2018. Price: Rp.350 million or closest offer. For further information, to view etc WhatsApp or call: +62(0)8118071557

c on f idenc e , or ga n i sat iona l skills, commercial awareness, adaptability, creativity, good t e a m work i ng sk i l l s , g o o d communication skills, IT skills. Please send your CV and current photo to: loker.jenjabali@gmail. com

Toyota Nav 1 2.0 V Automatic transmission. Metallic White. Year: September 2013. Petrol Engine. Mileage: Only 37,000km. 7 Seaters/Video Player/4 brand new tyres. Low mileage/Clean/ Well Maintained. Price: Rp.230 Million or nearest offer. For viewing and additional info: Please call or whatsapp: Lee +62(0)8111696944 or Cynthia +62(0)81219101678

Intern wanted for Post Production company in Kemang. Requirement: -Female foreigner 18-25 yrs -English language -Basic computer skill -Flexible working hours Send cv and photo to stevesurja@ yahoo.com

Low Mileage Diplomatic car for sale - 2008 Kijang Innova EX-VGS for USD8,500 or best offer, only 62,000km, available mid-June. Great for families, well-maintained, service record available, seats 6, leather interior, dual-zone a/c, 2nd-row captain's chairs, ample cargo space, pics on request, please email Colin at v.and.c.guest@gmail.com. Jobs Available Jenja Ja k a r t a A s si s t a nt Marketing: Providing onsite support and assistance to the marketing team that is located in Bali. Responsible for but not exclusively to branding: Social media, website, clientele portfolio, promotional material/ creative and marketing administrations/ A DHO C . M i n i mu m 1 y e a r ex per ience, Fluent English,

Pa r t-time Pr ima r y Tea cher Position (EXPAT) – Bintaro, Ta n g e r a n g . J o i n a w e l l established IB World School • Native speaker of English (UK, US, CDN, Aussie, NZ) preferred • 5 Years Teaching experience, IB PYP preferred • Team-player, flexible, creative • A deg ree in E duc at ion is required for a Work Permit Please send your application and updated resume with recent photo to hrd@globaljaya.com English Editor for Indonesian to English Fantasy Game Project [GIDEN]. Andovar is seeking native English editor for our fantasy game project which is translated from Indonesian into English and word count is approx. 100,000 source Indonesian words. Project is to start in the last week of May and continue for 4 weeks.

Requirements: • Be a native English speaker. • Related experience in game terminology with fantasy style is an advantage. • Willing to take a paid editing test. Interested parties should email a detailed CV to freelance@ andovar.com with [GIDEN] in the subject line. Fu l l T ime a nd Pa r t T ime vacancies are now available for experienced English language instructors for corporate courses around Jakarta. Competitive rates and travel allowance are offered. Please send your CV to: recruitment.kpiconsultancy@ gmail.com Services French and Bahasa Indonesia lesson at your place. For children adult & International school students (igcse level). Contact Novi: +62(0)816704370 Bahasa Indonesia lessons for expats living in South Jakarta, Kuningan, Country Wood, BSD, given by instructor with 20 years experience. Flexible schedule. Plea se c a ll Pa k Cha ir uma n +62(0)8121037466 or email chairuman1942@gmail.com Bahasa Indonesia Tutor available for foreign beginners. Affordable lesson fees. After office hours available. Teacher come at your doorstep. For more information a nd appointment , ema il: bahasaprivate@gmail.com

duties as requested. The position offers a competitive salary and the opportunity to be part of a fast growing company. For more information please send your covering letter and C.V. (in English) to si@lightfoottravel. com Property

Spanish Tutor: Learn Spanish at your place with a DELE-certified examiner from Spain. Most of my students come from International Schools (JIS and BSJ). Please call me (Raúl) +62 (0) 821 1050 2786 Email: unascartas@yahoo.com

Semanggi. Level 18, Size 45 m2. One King Size Bedroom + Relax Sofa Bed. Balcony view to Ciputra World, Near Gatot Subroto, Sudirman, & Mega Kuningan. Flexible rent payment starts from USD 700/month. Rented by owner +62(0)8119840334

Property Rent apar tment Kemang jaya(south Kemang 8). Ground floor/big balcony /view garden • Size : 270m2 • 4 bedroom+1 maid • 3 bathroom +1maid • Full furnished • Rent chg : 3000USD • Call : +62(0)82110319308

Rent apartment in Kemang Jaya. Jl. kemang selatan 8 • Size: 150m2 • Floor: 5 • 2 bedroom +1 study room +maid • 2 bath room+maid • Full furnished new • Price : $1,900. (Nego) • Call :+62(0)82110319308 (WA) Lu x ur y apar tment for rent: Nirwana Kemang, South Jakarta • Floor space 190 sqm • 2 bedrooms + 1 • Floor to ceiling windows • Extended outdoor terrace • Tastefully decorated • Furnished or unfurnished • Spectacular views over Kemang and Jakarta • Gym, swimming pool • 1 parking space and 1 storage locker • Situated in the heart of Kemang close to fine restaurants, bistros, supermarkets, shopping, international schools and banks. Please contact: dea. sha nt a@g ma i l.com. Ca ll: +62(0)87888123202 Apa r t ment Pejat en Pa rk Residence. Best Investment and luxury apartment. Best location in South Jakarta. Near to Kemang, Kuningan, TB.Simatupang. ROI 40% in 2 years. Starting price 1,3 Billion for 1 BR 41,30 m2. Get our special promo today. Info: +62(0)8561168019 FOR RENT! Newly renovated Fully Furnished One-BedRoom Unit at Apartemen Tamansari

Apartment Kemang Jaya for Rent Located at elite area in Kemang. E x patr iat e a rea . Nea rby t o International Schools, shops, markets, restaurants and bussines of f ices. The unit located on ground floor. Size 257 sqm with large balcony, 6 ft to the pool from balcony and tennis yard. Big garden. Excellent! 4+1 bed rooms, 3+1 bath rooms. CCTV every roms + alarms. TV cable + inter net connec tion. Full furnished. Rental price USD 3000 per month. Pictures or viewing to Cindy +62(0)8119502075. Email: c.virginia76@gmail.com Nice House at Jln. Kemang Dalam. This nice house located at elite expatriate area in Kemang. The location is very comfortable on Jalan Kemang Dalam. Close to International Schools, markets, restaura nt s, of f ices a round Kemang. The house is 4+2 bed rooms with 5+1 bath rooms. Each bed rooms attached the bath room. Nice pool with garden. Garage for 2 and carport for 2. Condition semi furnished. Rental price USD2,800 per month negotiable. Rp.467 million for one year - negotiable. Nice house and clean. Pictures or viewing to Cindy +62(0)8119502075 Email: c.virginia76@gmail.com

for marketing role in Indonesia and willing to relocate soon. Job wanted, can start ASAP, anytime as an Administrator, Secretary, Customer Service etc based on experienced. I have also experienced in Property businesses. Fluent in English both written and verbal. Email: nsrobala@gmail.com Others • One set Mizuno ladies golf clubs Rp.1,500,000 • One set Mens golf clubs Adams Idea Rp.1,800,000 • Crescent 4/4 Cello with bag and bow Rp.1,200,000 • Edirol midi keyboard controller PCR M30 Rp.800,000 Contact Maria +62(0)8118700723

yoga, travel, healthy food and watersports and love dealing with people. A quick problem solver, she will be highly articulate, warm and engaging. High level of computer literacy is essential. We are looking for that special candidate that has the x factor. A ppl ic at ion s v i a f i n a nc e@ escapehaven.com. Urgent: Sales A ssistant CoCoordinator Required for a Travel Company based in Canggu. E xcellent w r it ten & spoken English is essential for the role. Primary duties involve; creating travel itineraries, supporting Travel Designers and preparing final documentation packs for clients. Other administrative

Getaway to Ubud, Bali – Stay at Steph and Dave’s Private Villa in Ubud, Bali . 3 Bedroom Private Pool Villa in the rice f ields. Authentic Balinese stay in a traditional village. 4.5 kms from Ubud, Quiet, peaceful setting – in the rice. Sleeps 6 - ideal for family or couples. Free daily breakfast. Driver avail on request. Your own personal villa cook. Security 24 hrs. Read latest guest reviews on tripadvisor. Special Kitas Rates available. www.villadamee.com. Email: info@villadamee.com

A new photo gallery has opened in Ubud, called Taksu Photo Gallery. Dav id Met c a lf ’s new phot o gallery in Monkey Forest Rd is a beautiful gallery space with high quality prints for sale. You can even print your own photos on archive quality, acid free canvas & gloss paper on site. The paper is the best available. Framing ser v ices available. Thursday night Photo Documentary Films screen fortnightly at 7.00pm. Travel and photography books for sale. Open 7 days a week 9.00am to 7.00pm. Details on www.taksuphotogallery.com and please follow on Facebook:www. facebook.com/taksuphotogallery

MEDAN Property Emergency Sale: Land in Medan. 202.5m 2 Tanah milik - house with electricity. Rp.300 million or very near offer. Investment opportunity? Title deed here in Jakarta. No agents. Contact owner Ibu Lily: +62(0)81213995099 Email: terry@fullproofservices. ne

For sa le: a c ol le c t ion of paintings of old masters works le mayeur and Hendra Gunawan. Ser ious buyer only cont a c t +62(0)81287558607 For sale: several collections of old china ceramics: plates, vases, urns. and jade + gold-plated bronze statue china. Contact serious +62(0)81287558607 Household Staff Available Hiii expat families is summer holiday am free available junejuly looking a job as nannyhousemaids, cook part time or full time live in or out have previous experience working for expat families with reference i would like to hv job surrounding areas Blok M 'Cipete' Pondok Indah: my name is Tia please contact me directly on +62(0)8179855128 or WA.

BALI Jobs Available Sales Consultant Wanted in Bali. Must have excellent written and spoken English. Sales experience a bonus – full training provided. Very generous remuneration. Send resume to ca reers@ aberdeenhouse.com.au

Looking for work Hello, Indonesia! I'm archival Malforte with contact details +639178249210 or ema i l at avmalforte@yahoo.com. I have 3+ yea rs sa les & ma rketing experience gained from multinational FMCGs. I'm eyeing

Bali’s leading women’s retreat is seeking a Retreat Leader. We have a rare opportunity to join our talented team of facilitators in our Canggu resort. Ideal candidate will come from a corporate or hospitality background with excellent skills in organisation and guest relations. She will have a passion for the Bali lifestyle of issue 168 Indonesia expat

Indonesia expat issue 168

issue 168 Indonesia expat

Indonesia expat issue 168