Indonesia Expat - issue 118 by Indonesia Expat

L M DY IN & D, SO U BO

Formerly JAK ARTA EXPAT and BALI EXPAT

IS SUE NO. 118

21 M AY – 3 JUNE 2 014

SEKOLAH KAMI: GIVING CHILDREN OF RUBBISH PICKERS A BRIGHTER FUTURE

JA K A R TA • JAVA • B A L I • LOMBOK • K A L IM A N TA N • SUM AT R A • SUL AW E SI • W E S T PA P UA

W W W.INDONE SI A E X PAT.BIZ

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VIPASSANA MEDITATION HERAWATI DIAH: THE 97-YEAROLD JOURNALIST LEGEND

IN SICKNESS & IN WEALTH: HEALTH IN INDONESIA

issue 118 indonesia expat

indonesia expat issue 118

issue 118 indonesia expat

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Indonesia's Largest Expatriate Readership

Mind, Body & Soul

Editor in Chief Angela Richardson angela@indonesiaexpat.biz

Editorial Assistant Gabriella Panjaitan gaby@indonesiaexpat.biz

Management Edo Frese edo@indonesiaexpat.biz

Sales & Distribution Dian Mardianingsih Betty de Haan ads@indonesiaexpat.biz

Graphics Frederick Ng fred@indonesiaexpat.biz

Finance & Admin Lini Verawaty Andre Fajar

Contributors Victoria Bannerman Gail G. Collins Tess Joyce Hush Petersen Daniel Pope Eamonn Sadler Antony Sutton LL. Wing Kenneth Yeung

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WHAT do the above three words mean to you? Some people haven’t quite grasped the idea of the mind being a separate entity to the body, the former of which most people understand, whether they believe in the presence of a soul (spirit) or not. Of course everyone understands the body, as it’s something tangible. It’s harder to explain the ethereal however. Last week we celebrated Vesak Day, commemorating the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha, and in Buddhism, the mind is kind of like the western equivalent of the soul; the consciousness which continues after death. In my spare time, I read books about Tibetan Buddhism, which is quite random seeing as I have no physical connection to Tibet, or Buddhism for that matter. It was about ten years ago when I was standing in a book shop on Oxford Street in London staring aimlessly at the shelves in search of something. I had become part of ‘the new age

of spirituality’ and was looking to learn more. My eyes wondered over different sections, titles and authors, until one particular book caught my eye: The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche. This title captured my attention immediately, and I snapped it up, reading it religiously until I had devoured it all. Meditation was nothing new to me, but the fact that these ancient teachings offered such a present way of viewing life, with its main aims of reaching enlightenment

and helping relieve all sentient beings from suffering, I was tantalized. Spirituality is missing in society today, and I believe it to be a misunderstood word as well. When I tell people I am spiritual, they assume me to be religious, which I am not. I’m simply in search of something sacred, something divine, which I personally believe can be felt in the presence of Mother Nature and through meditation, as well

as practicing the act of altruism and compassion. With modern technology taking over — and don’t get me wrong, I am a technophile — we seem to have let go of or forgotten a very important part of us; connecting with the world and the beings that we share it with. It’s difficult to really feel the spirit of the earth when we live in 30-storey apartment blocks in concrete jungles. And that is why escaping to nature is so important. It gives us a chance to reconnect and really feel alive. This issue is all about the mind and the body, which we hope will feed your soul. I hope you come away from reading this copy feeling revitalized and ready to take a step in the right direction to better your life, whether it be physically or mentally.

Angela Richardson Editor in Chief

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Published by PT. Koleksi Klasik Indonesia Jl. Kemang Raya No. 29A Kemang, Jakarta,Indonesia Phone: 021 7179 4550 Fax: 021 7179 4546 Office hours: 09.00 – 17.00 Monday – Friday INDONESIA EXPAT IS PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY BY PT. KOLEKSI KLASIK INDONESIA. OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS

Dear Angela, Congratulations on the 'recent' (hmmm, I don't know if this word is still applicable, seeing it's been several months. Well, I've been meaning to write to you but never could get myself to do it) rebranding and consolidation of Jakarta Expat and Bali Expat into Indonesia Expat.

I love your crossword puzzles, along with the tagline 'For the macet mind'. Nice one! It does keep me entertained in the car when my smartphone dies. Here's the problem; after getting a handful of highly doubtful answers, I need to access my smartphone’s thesaurus app. Dang, smartphone's dead, can't solve puzzle, back to counting motorcycles on the street to pass the time.

PUBLICATION ARE THOSE OF THE WRITERS AND THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMMISIONS, OR COMPLAINTS ARISING THERE FROM.

Over the years, I have learned lots from the stories contributed by fellow expatriates all over the archipelago and have since become a huge fan of the publication.

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

I love the new layout. Oh, the sacrifices you have to make to sell prime advertising space and bump your editorial column from page 2 to page 4. Haha.

I especially love your events and classifieds sections as there are often some interesting events and good bargains for a cheapskate like me. Having said that, I just realized a barcode and the price tag at the top right corner; at times like these, I'm glad that I'm still on your 'Gratis' mailing list. All the best and Sukses Selalu!

RESERVED BY PT. KOLEKSI KLASIK INDONESIA.

Best regards, Jason Hue

The Cover Emily Sprakel in Pincha Mayurasana Pose Pictured by Aang Rinaldi

indonesia expat issue 118

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Issue 118

Contents

Featured In Sickness and in Wealth

Music 25 Years of Flawless Blues and Roots Music

Meet the Jakarta Expat Mike Shipton

Sports In Pursuit of Happiness: Expat Clubs in Bali

Meet the Bali Expat Sara Amy

Scams in the City Car Theft Hoaxes

Spiritual Travel The Yoga Bomb: Can it Explode with Flowers?

Worthy Causes Sekolah Kami

Food and Drink The Rebirth of Riva

Faces of Indonesia Inaro: The Kerokan Healer

Inspirations Herawati Diah: An Endless Journey Reflections of an Indonesian Journalist

Fashion From London to the Jaks: A Fashionista's Journey

Business Profile Brian Billdt: CEO of Lifespa Fitness

Business Snippet Forward Thinking Companies Link Talent Managemenet with Global Mobility

Light Entertainment The Curious Case of the Innocent Driver

Announcements

Advertising Feature Kids & Teens' Favourite Activities at Rockstar Gym

Events

Humorous Observations The Big Noise

28 30

I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU DON’T HAVE LIFE INSURANCE! FOR MORE INFORMATION AND QUOTATIONS PLEASE E-MAIL INFO@GMS-FINANCIAL.COM OR CALL (021) 520 3574

Classifieds Business Directory PT ARIPA MAKMUR PERSADA Graha Aktiva (American Express Building) 4 th Floor, Suite 405, Jl. H. R. Rasuna Said, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950 - Indonesia

issue 118 indonesia expat

FEATURED

In Sickness and in Wealth By Kenneth Yeung

ndonesia aims to implement a system of universal healthcare by 2019, but that won’t stop the country’s richest citizens from going to Singapore hospitals when it’s time to die. Healthcare should not only be free for the nation’s poor, but should also be of high quality.

When I requested a more thorough examination, such as an endoscopy or an MRI scan, the doctor became conspiratorial, handed me his card and told me to make an appointment to see him at a hospital in Pondok Indah, where he also worked. Then he gave me a prescription for four medicines to counter the discomfort in my throat. I didn’t buy any of them.

Ask affluent Indonesians why they prefer to go to Singapore, Malaysia or Australia for medical treatment and the answers are generally the same. “Indonesian hospitals are only interested in making money. Foreign doctors spend more time with the patient and clearly explain your problem and its treatment. They provide better services and don’t make you have unnecessary operations.”

Next, I tried Dharmais Cancer Hospital, where I didn’t even get to see a doctor. They wouldn’t approve me as a patient because I declined to fill in the “religion” part of the admissions form.

When I suffered a throat problem last year, I made an appointment to see a specialist at Medistra Hospital in Jakarta. After a long wait, I was ushered in to see the doctor, who made an extremely cursory examination in under two minutes and confidently informed me I was allergic to an air conditioner. I told him that I never use the air conditioners in my apartment. “So, you must have a pet — a cat or a dog — and you’re allergic to the fur,” the doctor insisted. Not true. “Then you work in an office with a new carpet and you’re allergic to the carpet,” he asserted.

indonesia expat issue 118

After that, I booked a flight to Singapore. On arrival, I went to Singapore General Hospital, filled in a simple form and was given an appointment for the following day. The doctor who examined me was accompanied by two medical interns — one Swedish and one Malaysian – something you won’t experience in Indonesia, as foreign doctors are banned from practicing. I received a thorough examination, including an endoscopy and a CT scan, then a diagnosis of my ailment — all within a day. I was not given any pills or injections. The consultation and tests cost about SGD$1,000; well worth it for the peace of mind. Extremely rich Indonesians can purchase greater peace of mind at Singapore’s Mount Elizabeth Hospital, where basic

Kenneth Yeung is a Jakarta-based editor

“If the next government wants to improve the quality of human development and save money on healthcare, it will be necessary to encourage many Indonesians to adopt healthier lifestyles by quitting smoking, eating less fried and sugary foods, doing regular exercise and paying greater attention to road safety.”

Gerindra’s health policy is particularly impressive: a modern hospital in every regency and city; social security for the poor, disabled and displaced; increased roles for integrated health centres and community health clinics; a “white revolution” through the provision of milk for poor school children by establishing cattle and goat dairies; and undergraduate and newly graduated doctors must serve in poor and disadvantaged areas.

©azmc.org

Many people are unaware that Indonesia is already on the path to universal healthcare. One of PDIP Chairwoman Megawati Sukarnoputri’s final acts as president in October 2004 was issuing the National Social Security System Law, which mandates social insurance and healthcare assistance. The country’s four state-owned insurance companies, all of them profit-oriented, were supposed to merge within five years into a single non-profit social security agency.

tests can set you back SGD$8,000 or much more should you want a deluxe or VIP room.

Social Security Back in Indonesia, Jakarta Governor Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo’s policy of free healthcare for the city’s poor was big news. In a country where politicians traditionally steal from the people, this was revolutionary. Not surprisingly, rival politicians criticized the policy as unworkable and too expensive. This July’s presidential election will be a showdown between Jokowi, representing the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), and former general Prabowo Subianto of the Greater Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra). Both parties are campaigning for free healthcare for the poor.

This policy stalled during President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s first term in office (2004 – 2009) due to a dire lack of political will, as the state-owned insurance firms were reluctant to give up their profits. After much debate, a law on the creation of a National Social Security Agency (Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial — BPJS) was eventually passed in November 2011. The scheme will cover all Indonesians and foreigners who have lived in the country for at least six months. When afflicted by illness, the poor should be able to access free treatment at a thirdclass room in hospital, whereas higher income earners paying for compulsory health insurance can be treated in superior rooms. There will be two social security agencies: BPJS I for health insurance and BPJS II for employment benefits, including pensions, occupational injuries and death coverage. To support BPJS I, the Health Ministry has planned a National Health Insurance (Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional – JKN) scheme, which should be completely in place by 2019. But there remain many challenges to restructuring Indonesia’s healthcare system. Transparency will be vital to ensure that corrupt officials do not misuse subsidies intended for the poor. Many details still need to be ironed out, such as how to collect compulsory healthcare premiums from salaries and how to ensure that levied funds are used to directly assist the genuinely poor.

Beyond universal healthcare, future governments will need to instil greater professionalism in hospitals. It won’t hurt Indonesians to allow qualified foreign doctors to work here. Doctors should stop over-prescribing antibiotics and stop promoting the mentality that every minor ailment requires numerous forms of medication. Hospitals should also stop giving the names and phone numbers of new mothers to companies that then telephone them and try to sell them powdered milk. Hospitals need to learn to accept criticism. Indonesia should be ashamed of the case of Prita Mulyasari, a housewife who was jailed in 2009 because she complained that Omni International Hospital in Tangerang had misdiagnosed her case of the mumps as dengue fever. On a more positive note, Indonesia does have a good reputation for reasonably priced and competent dental care. Some foreigners actually come to Jakarta to get their teeth fixed. If the next government wants to improve the quality of human development and save money on healthcare, it will be necessary to encourage many Indonesians to adopt healthier lifestyles by quitting smoking, eating less fried and sugary foods, doing regular exercise and paying greater attention to road safety. Should politicians set an example by visiting only Indonesian hospitals? Prabowo’s mother died at Mount Elizabeth Hospital in 2008. Megawati’s husband died at Singapore General Hospital last year. It doesn’t really matter where we die, but politicians should strive to ensure that treatment abroad will no longer be deemed necessary, while the poor should never be denied treatment.

issue 118 indonesia expat

MEET THE JAKARTA EXPAT

being on the field to resolve their problems. If a customer has a problem, we’ll solve it then and there. I also have a passion to develop my staff. The rainy season is quite exciting as well because we rescue people in the water.

Mike Shipton

The most difficult thing for me is sitting in the office.

Meet Mike Shipton. A South African expat with a high-pressure, demanding job, Mike is an exceptionally cheerful guy with a positive outlook on life. Mike loves his job at G4S as Country Managing Director and adores life in Indonesia. By Gabriella Panjaitan

Hello, Mike! So, did you choose Indonesia or did Indonesia choose you? I moved to Jakarta in July 2013. G4S promoted me a couple of years ago and we discussed a few countries where I'd be placed. Round about March last year they told me to pop in to Indonesia for a week of holiday. I thought it was a cool vacation plan. However, within a couple of hours of landing here I realized this is the place I want to spend a couple of years in. What were the deciding factors for your move? First of all the potential of the market and, as soon as I got settled into the position, the potential of the company in Indonesia. I’ve travelled and worked in a lot of countries in the world and I think this place is a beautiful country, but I don’t think most people realize the opportunities they’re sitting on. Indonesia has always been a good stepping stone for the managers at G4S, as most get promoted into senior roles very quickly. In your hometown of Durban, South Africa, what was life like? I was working for another company back there. My background is in Business Management. It’s quite different to Jakarta, I love the hustle and bustle here, it makes people thrive and feel alive. South Africa is more laid back. G4S is a security company. What facets of security are we talking about? G4S is the biggest security company in the world. We operate five companies under G4S, the first is the cash company where we do cash processing and cash distribution for bank branches, and we provide end-to-end services for that bank. The second company is the guarding company where we provide the typical satpam services in residential areas, malls, etc. Then we’ve got the electronic security company, where we offer consultation for the design or layout for alarms, CCTV camera systems or fire alarms. We also provide the response to the alarm, that’s where our trained guards come in. It’s pointless to have an alarm go off and have no response team. The fourth company is a branch that sells, replenishes and maintains ATMs for bank branches. The last company is the software company; we design and develop software for a banking institution. As you can see, G4S provides a complete range of security services. We are more than just a whistle-bearing satpam industry. I’ve seen money-transferring trucks around with G4S’ logo on it. I’ve always thought this work is done by another company, Securicor? That’s the cash side of G4S. It’s funny because G4S is actually the result of merging between Group 4 and Securicor — hence G4S — but people still refer to those trucks as Securicor trucks. Does a successful security company depend on employing trustworthy people? Absolutely, that is critical and of the utmost importance. At the moment we are re-evaluating all our employees, checking all criminal histories, backgrounds and training them properly. Your integrity counts most in this business and it only takes one mistake to lose it forever. What do you like about your job? What’s the most difficult aspect? Every day is different; it could start with a meeting then I’d have to rush to a site because of an incident — no day is the same and that’s what makes it exciting. I focus on the clients. I personally take calls from my clients and love 8

indonesia expat issue 118

Are you a tech savvy person? Oh yes, very much. I’m a technology geek; I’ll buy anything they put out there on the market. When Google Glass comes out I’m definitely going to buy it. And I’m going to wear it! What in your opinion is the best trait to have in order to be a successful manager? You have to have the discipline to make sure your tasks are done properly and efficiently, but you also have to have empathy to understand the challenges others are experiencing. Those and a good sense of team spirit. How is your Bahasa Indonesia after living in Jakarta for a couple of months now? I have a funny story on that. So, I’ve been taking lessons in formal Bahasa Indonesia. I did three months of it, and I thought I was pretty good. About a month ago, I went to the Kemang KFC. I walked in with my best Bahasa Indonesia and ordered two pieces of chicken. I got distracted and looked at some kids playing, and when I turned around to see my order, I ended up with four cups of Pepsi, four servings of rice and eight chickens! I’ve got a theory on this; it wasn’t my Bahasa Indonesia, I think the employees at KFC wait for a bule to show up, confuse them and laugh. You moved to Jakarta with your wife. How does she like the city? Yes, my wife moved with me. We actually went to Singapore for a couple of days and when we got back, my wife let out a big sigh and said, “Aahh, we’re home.” G4S is a massive international company. Do you envision having another posting in another country in the future? My personal goal is to do one more country and then I’ll come back to South Africa. I would like to spend a little more time in Asia or somewhere in South America — I wouldn’t mind China. I’m at a stage in my life where it’s more about the experience and meeting people and new cultures. What you learn as an expat if far more than what you would as a tourist.

“You have to have the discipline to make sure your tasks are done properly and efficiently.” Do you enjoy the expat life? The expat life is a really, really good experience. But sometimes you get people who come to a new country and complain about everything — the traffic, the pollution — to those people I say, "Get on with life!" If you are unhappy with it, move on and find the positive things in that place — there’s plenty of it. A traffic jam gives me a chance to meditate. I can complain about it for two hours or I can close my eyes and relax, catch up on my emails and have some alone time. That brings me to my next question. As this is the 'Mind, Body and Soul' issue, what do you do to achieve a healthy lifestyle in this city? I belong to the Jakarta Outdoor Adventurists Club. It’s just a great bunch of people and we travel around the country, go on hikes, and get to see things that a lot of expats don’t get to see. We get to speak in Bahasa Indonesia along the way, eat Indonesian food, and sink into the culture. We went to Krakatau last month, the Papandayan Mountain, and a couple of weeks ago we went to Dieng plateau. The club is also hiking the three Ss; Sindoro, Sumbing and Slamet. At least that gets me out of the city for some fresh air for the weekend, so I try to do that as much as I can. I also practice meditation; I try to tame what the Buddhists call the ‘monkey mind’ and relax. If you can take a memorable experience out of your stint in Indonesia, what would it be? It would have to be the acceptance that my staff in Indonesia have shown me. I’ve been in many countries and this is the one country I’ve ever really felt welcomed. It’s very uplifting, they make me part of the family. I’ve never felt that anywhere else in the world.

MEET THE BALI EXPAT

LL. Wing is a NYC artist and writer.

Sara Amy

Sara is a Vipassana Meditation practitioner and advocate, devoting her life to sharing its ways to benefit others. By LL. Wing

message. I was willing and able to offer my time to service, something I had gone about doing the wrong way for many years. I discovered very quickly that helping others by offering them unconditional support and encouragement left me feeling great. I could never repay my debt of gratitude for having the opportunity to come out of suffering so this was the next best thing.

Where is the 10-day retreat held? The Bali retreat is held at a hired ashram in the mountains of Bangli, near Kintamani. The property is stunning, rustic yet comfortable, offering sweeping views of valleys, dotted with fruit trees and bamboo forests. Due to its elevation, often our courses are refreshing for those living in Indonesia, as evening temperatures can dip to chillier times, but the daylight hours are pleasant and rejuvenating. Our main centre for Indonesia is in Bogor approximately 45 minutes from Jakarta.

Sara, what is your background? I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada. As a high school dropout, overly sensitive, but with a heart of gold - completely misguided and disillusioned by North American society - there was only one way to go, and that was down. I’ve always been a hard worker, loyal, with morals and ethics, hardly suited for the desk job I had succumbed to. To distract myself from the pain of the mundane, I did what most people did; discovered a passion for the party. I became a professional ‘weekend warrior’ and embraced my dark side with humour, intoxicants, and techno music. I was truly ignorant with no understanding of real joy or accomplishment. The only time I ever felt real happiness was when I was in a relationship. There I would give myself freely, from a place of love, but all the while I was doing it selfishly to fill an empty space in my existence. Because I had no understanding of self-love, I was consistently delivered abusive men to keep me on my toes and heartbreak and disappointment was a constant state in my life. This was the catalyst for my spiritual awakening; men and substances could no longer fill that void, apparently I had to. When did you discover Vipassana? In 2010 the illustrious employment I had become joined at the hip with was pulled out from under me. Left with little savings, the rabbit hole was my next pitstop; one that I had no idea would deliver me to a state of utter depression. Now unemployed, single and nearing 40, something had to give. One night in the darkest state I had ever encountered, I lay on my sofa sobbing from the depths of my soul. Certainly I was drunk but that wasn’t the only thing affecting my state of mind. It was my spirit itself that had finally had enough; it grabbed me and shook me to my core. I verbally uttered the most poignant words of my 38 years, “I surrender. I don’t want to die. Whatever I’ve been doing is not working. I need help.” In this near tragic moment, a bizarre word came to the forefront of my brain: “Vipassana”. What is that strange word? Where did it come from? I didn’t know at the time but it was enough to get me off the couch and to

Vipassana meditation as taught by S.N. Goenka is a simple, practical, universal method for purifying the mind and enjoying real peace. You can develop greater selfknowledge, self-control, happiness, wisdom and compassion. There is no charge for courses; all expenses (food and lodging) are covered by the donations of previous students.

my laptop where I tried to spell the word in hopes that Google would know the answer. And it did. A webpage appeared. It said “Vipassana Meditation”. How did it change your life? It gave me back the life that I deserved. I fondly refer to those times as a mid-life awakening. The process is compared to a surgical operation of the mind. Over the course of ten days you go to the depths of the mind and extract the root of deep seeded issues. This technique works with the sensations on the body. It is not based on religious views, there is no dogma involved, you are not asked to give up any beliefs or rites and rituals, but instead requested that you surrender to the teachings for the duration of the course without interference from previous techniques in order to give this a fair trial. I discovered that my mind was constantly rolling in the past or living in the future; it was never residing in the present. This technique delivers you there. It left me feeling peaceful, and with a new found direction in life. I undoubtedly knew that it was time to start living in the now; spreading peace, love and happiness was my only desire. After completing my first course, I sold everything I owned, and within a few months I left Canada. Bali was my first stop, and apparently the universe had a bigger plan for me in bringing me here. Vipassana Meditation was needed, and I was the most ideal person to deliver the

“I discovered that my mind was constantly rolling in the past or living in the future; it was never residing in the present.” Tell me about Vipassana and S.N. Goenka. Vipassana is the meditation the Buddha practiced after trying all other forms of bodily mortification and mind control and finding them inadequate to free him from the seemingly endless round of birth and death, pain and sorrow. It is a technique so valuable that in Burma it was preserved in its pristine purity for more than 2,500 years. Vipassana meditation has nothing to do with the development of supernormal, mystical, or special powers, even though they may be awakened. The process of purification that occurs is simply an elimination of negativities, complexes, knots, and habits that have clouded pure consciousness and blocked the flow of mankind’s highest qualities — pure love (metta), compassion (karuna), sympathetic joy (mudita), and equanimity (upekkha).

Vipassana has been used in prisons, first in India and now in the USA. What are the results? Vipassana meditation has been successfully introduced in various prisons throughout India and the USA and is showing tremendous results. Many inmates are working through their trauma using insight meditation, able to go deep inside their minds and cut the wires that have them spinning out and acting out in ignorance, violence and hatred. In turn, they free themselves mentally from their past and find a healthy place to live in the present. There are two documentaries that I highly recommend watching: Doing Time, Doing Vipassana can be found on YouTube, and The Dhamma Brothers can be purchased online. What are your future goals? To continue spreading peace, love and happiness, achieved by volunteering my time in service and continuing with my home practice. In addition to this, I hope to be able to continue perpetuating and facilitating Vipassana meditation courses in Bali. It is my dream, which is hopefully shared by others, to one day establish our own centre which will allow for more people to come to courses more frequently to learn this wonderful technique.

For more information about Vipassana meditation, or to register for an upcoming course in Indonesia, please visit www.java. dhamma.org

issue 118 indonesia expat

SPIRITUAL TRAVEL

The Yoga Bomb

Tess Joyce's poems were recently published in poetry magazines Orbis, The Journal, Tears in the Fence, Obsessed with Pipework and in online magazines Snakeskin, The Island Review, BlazeVOX, Ditch, Four and Twenty, Anatomy and Etymology and Phantom Kangaroo. She is a writer from the UK but currently lives with her husband in Indonesia.

Can it Explode with Flowers?

©USYoga

By Tess Joyce

here seems to be a lot of confusion, everywhere. No one quite knows what to believe in anymore. There’s just so much information out there and other cultures and other people just seem to do things so differently. So where do you start? Your Facebook Newsfeed? Well, apparently we judge each other. I’ve seen so many online debates concerning yoga — people loving it, people ridiculing it - people mindlessly competing for a prize that will never come. But why? Why are we being so mean about it all?

According to the online debates raging at the moment, if you say 'namaste' in Bali, you will probably be laughed at. You have to say Om Swastiastu. Some expats in Bali seem to be battling with each other in terms of how much they know about Balinese Hinduism. The debates rage and there are some valid points. But the main fear seems to be this: Bali is changing, and people are scared. Yet we also have to remember that in the bleak darkness of this world, Bali is also shining with all of its organic food, community and environment action and health and mindful practices. And many people are coming for the yoga — the Balinese have been practicing it for centuries. So what if, despite all the debates, it was as simple as ‘keep your body and mind healthy so that you can do more positive deeds on the planet’ or ‘moan about everything from your computer, but don’t actually do anything about it?’ (And let’s not forget that millions of people on this planet don’t even have clean water, let alone a computer — so if we moan, it should be about the important issues.) Yet this debate is a slippery one — some yogis have fallen onto the path of money, that’s true, and people are always going to find black holes where all the love and tolerance seeps out. For the sake of this article, I’m not going to judge and I’m going to accept that yoga is very real for many people (including myself). So where do you start in Bali? The first step might be to find a genuine teacher and practice that helps you to grow. The annual Bali Spirit Festival has many different yoga teachers from across Bali and the world, and houses different styles. It’s also quite expensive.

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But there are lots of fair-priced places across Bali which organise good yoga retreats with a focus on sustainable living and the environment. Mandala Bali is one of those places and I recently had a chat with Kim Slippens about the project. “The Mandala Bali retreats are designed for anyone interested in a natural way of life, being one with the Earth and the ocean. The core intention is to get ourselves closer to this oneness of all — to connect deeper with our higher selves by cleansing our bodies and purifying the mind through yoga, breath work, nature explorations and creativity. We offer a variety of daily yoga classes and workshops including talks on permaculture and raw food, intuitive painting class, acro-yoga (partner) session, guided surfing and meditations. We are all here together, connected in one way or another. With everything moving so fast it is easy to forget what it is that we are meant to do here. We carry within us an immense power and responsibility to protect and preserve our Mother Earth,” said Kim.

and in the recent documentary Breathe about his life, William revealed that he practices yoga daily.

Offering surfing meditation classes at Mandala Bali is Dimi who also runs his blog, Universe Lovers. I met Dimi at the cob workshop and was inspired by both his and Kim’s energy. As I slurped on coffee througout the day, Dimi munched on fruit and by the end of the workshop, Kim had us covered in mud and doing yoga poses — being in Mandala helped me to remember how to have fun.

Yoga is growing in popularity across the globe and not just in Bali. But why? I asked Kim about how she first discovered this path. “My ‘yoga journey’ began as I started feeling more conscious about my body and mind. With all the troubles of the modern world I felt a great need to stay grounded and calm to discover what it is I actually came here to do. I am sure that this could be a reason why yoga is now spreading all over the world, not merely for the physical act of doing exercise but for finding that stillness within. I found myself experimenting with different types of yoga and meditations and realized that I enjoyed bringing my awareness into the present moment. Eventually my journey led me to India to study more intensively and I took a teacher’s training course. Back in Bali, I began sharing my practice and here I am teaching most days of the week, always learning something new — this is what keeps me on the path of yoga — uniting all that is, one step at a time.”

I asked Dimi more about his practices in meditation which he combines with surfing. “Surfmeditation is the foundation of surfing on ocean waves and meditation with the raising of the kundalini energy, the disclosure of higher consciousness. Meditation is the knowledge and the ability to master the spiritual body. Surfing is the knowledge and possession of the physical body. Surfmeditation frees you from the inner fears of the future and lets us live in the present,” he told me.

Let’s not forget that yoga’s sanskrit root is to yoke (to join) — union with the flow. Sometimes we can get so wrapped up in ourselves that we might think that doing yoga photo shoots in a sacred Balinese temple is a good idea. As the online debates continue, humility is considered to be a better idea and I quite agree; along with respecting the Balinese ways and each other, so that we can all evolve together within the flow, in peace and quiet, perhaps with a nice cup of tea.

Other centres are using yoga to enable them to explore the natural world, including Apneista in Amed, Bali. Using a combination of yogic practices and breathing techniques, practioners are using these skills to enable them to freedive to extraordinary depths in the ocean. William Trubridge currently holds the world record for no-fin freeimmersion freediving reaching depths of over 100 metres

Further Information For more information about yoga retreats at Mandala Bali, please email: mandala.bali@hotmail.com Freediving and Yoga Documentary Breathe (2011) Bali Spirit Festival www.balispiritfestival.com Apneista Freediving and Yoga www.apneista.com

FOOD & DRINK

The Rebirth of Riva

at the top but tender below. It took precision and patience to produce such a dish. The salmon was coupled with buttery hollandaise sauce, some greens on the side with a dash of squeezed lemon, and – here’s an addition that sets it apart — pumpkin purée, which is a great counterpart to the savoury salmon, adding a hint of sweetness. It’s very easy to love this dish. The pan-seared barramundi (Rp.150K) is another dish worth trying. Also crisp at the top and tender below, this one is accompanied with sautéed asparagus and olives with truffle sauce. One worthy note for this dish is the preparation of the vegetables, resulting in just the right texture, not mushy or too hard.

By Gabriella Panjaitan

Jakarta, with its endless surplus of restaurants, is not without a nostalgic element; many people keep coming back to restaurants they are familiar with. Regardless of an abundance of fresh, new ones, long-running restaurants have their ways of still enchanting restaurant-goers. One such restaurant is housed within the premises of the Park Lane Hotel in Jakarta. With its newly completed renovation, this place doesn’t merely serve as a hub for nostalgic diners, it’s a sanctuary for new converts like myself. Riva at the Park Lane Hotel is a name with much resonance; it has echoed through different generations of Jakarta’s residents. An image of French luxury is associated when Jakartans think of Riva. Opening its doors in 1998, Riva went under renovation almost a year ago and emerged a different organism altogether, transforming its French fine dining brand into a modern dining joint with the tagline ‘Grill Bar and Terrace’; the grill is the new principle benchmark, with still a hint of its ancestry French taste.

Riva Terrace

It was indeed seafood galore. We also tried the ultimate Riva pizza with seafood, surprisingly only for Rp.95K. Riva uses a beautiful wood oven to grill the pizza, resulting in a crispy, very Italian-like and quite a nice option for a light lunch. The grilled Mediterranean seafood was excellent! I could detect a hint of spiciness along with an aroma of garlic; a rather inviting appetizer full of herbs and spices. Lunch was certainly a success. Hats off to the chef! For dessert, the flourless chocolate cake (Rp.75K) was delicious and light – unlike other flourless chocolate cakes that end up being more brownie-like. The secret, I think is in the almond powder. With some tart berry compote and vanilla ice cream on the side, this is a popular dish to end meals with at Riva. Grilled Mediterranean Seafood Rp.95,000

Riva expanded its size and now boasts a large seating area where guests can dine comfortably at the dining area, the high tables, the lounge section, the terraces, the private dining room and even at the now larger bar. Riva’s full bar is complete with the rare and sought-after Kilkenny beer on draft. There are two terraces with views overlooking the Casablanca road and the hotel’s swimming pool and pool bar. The grill, the bar and the terraces are the cornerstones of Riva, hence the new tagline. Sunlight comes in abundance as Riva is surrounded by windows, creating a spacious atmosphere with a touch of a laid back brunch feel. At night, Riva is an elegant — even romantic - dinner restaurant; quite an oasis in the middle of the city.

Pan-Seared Baramundi Rp.150,000

The open kitchen concept was new in Jakarta around the 1990s and Riva was the first to incorporate it into the dining experience. Walking into the open kitchen now, guests can see renowned chef Deden Gumilar taking care of the cooking process and quality. Chef Deden, with years of experience under his belt, has created mouth-watering European cuisines in different categories of the menu; from the farm, the sea and the garden. One of the most in-demand items is Riva’s Cote de Beouf (for two), a juicy and succulent 1kg Australian Wagyu beef rib with roasted jus (Rp.1,245K), quite a large portion, even for two people. Most people opt for the smaller but delightfully tender Sher Wagyu tenderloin (Rp.510K). All items from the grill come with a choice of sauce, like Maitre d’Hotel, Bordelaise, black pepper, etc. The Maitre d’Hotel, a compound butter with parsley, lemon and pepper, is also served with Riva’s homemade potato bread while diners wait for their main course. I decided to go for an unorthodox approach and tried Riva’s seafood menu. I was pleasantly surprised; Riva’s versatility was manifested in their meticulous and detailed approach to the salmon medallion (Rp.190K) I tried. The perfectly round salmon fillet was grilled to a savoury crisp

The bartender was no slouch either. I was sceptical with the mint crème brûlée cocktail (Rp.120K) at first but found it to be quite interesting. A Kahlua-infused drink, the mint crème brûlée even looks like the actual dessert, with caramelized torched sugar on top mixed with vodka and peppermint syrup, and poured into an unusual cone-shaped glass with a chiller on the bottom; such a sweet treat! I also gave the dirty kiwi iced tea (Rp.50K) and orange sensation (Rp.55K) a try, the latter being a concoction of lychee, orange and milk — who would have thought that lychee and orange could be a great pair! A steak dinner at Riva would set you back around Rp.400K++ per person (unless you dine on the Cote de Boufe), whereas a non-steak dinner would be around Rp.200K++ per person. Your dinner at Riva is accompanied by live music with an acoustic band every Wednesdays, which also includes a ladies’ night promotion on that same day from 8pm onwards (buy one get one cocktail). Riva offers deals and promotions every day of the week. Make sure to ask for the day’s deal when you visit. Another ‘must try’ at Riva is their wine. Their large and prestigious wine collection is even on the ‘Wine Spectator’ list as one of the world’s best restaurants!

Sher Wagyu Rp.510,000

Riva is also a nice place to hang out with a few cocktails. Its terraces are designed to have diners relax in a more alfresco setting. The pool-view terrace is recommended for a more casual weekend lunch with the family; there’s even a big screen by the terrace to watch movies or sports games while sipping on some cold ones. The once French joint has adjusted its prices as they employ the new ‘Grill, Bar & Terrace’ trademark to accommodate casual diners. There’s no adjustment on quality, however, as Chef Deden Gumilar outdid himself with the new menu. Riva’s still got it!

RATING SUMMARY FOOD SERVICE VALUE ATMOSPHERE

Riva Grill Bar and Terrace Park Lane Hotel Ground Floor Jl. Casablanca Kav. 18 Phone: (021) 828-2000 E-mail: riva@parklanejakarta.com Hours: 10am – 1am

issue 118 indonesia expat

FACES OF INDONESIA

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INARO THE KEROKAN HEALER By Hush Petersen

A conversation about the world of healing would be incomplete without mentioning the wonderful world of kerokan. Kerokan, synonymous with masuk angin, is the storied act of grinding a coin against the skin to release wind that has entered the body and caused symptoms tantamount to that of the common cold. Most photos on the Internet depict cringe-worthy scenes of carmine skid marks down the backs of self-diagnosed sufferers. Inaro, who spends most days as a becak driver based at the Jogjakarta train station within spitting distance of Jalan Malioboro, doubles as the area’s go-to kerokan practitioner. Real kerokan, or kerok, starts at the neck and goes all the way down the legs. While Western medicine insists on chicken soup and Sprite to fight against the symptoms of the common cold, Indonesian tradition leans towards an ancient coin scraping artistry that most anyone can perform. "The key is in the way you hold the coin," explains Inaro over the cry of the traincrossing gates. "You have to hold it like this. You have to flip it so the thick side is on the skin." While many questions arise when it comes to kerokan, the first brow-furrowing question in the cross-examination has to do with pain. Inaro shakes his head and quietly dismisses the conjecture. "The same way that reflexi sometimes hurts is the same way that kerokan works. You have to get in there."

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indonesia expat issue 118

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Meanwhile, most kerokan specialists, who insist that the redder the marks, the more angin (wind) is released, are quick to point out that treatment is all a question of your personal pain threshold. Proponents of the roadside treatment insist that the coin service increases blood flow and oxygen to the body. Sceptics, however, would insist that while kerokan has been practiced for centuries throughout Indonesia, there is no proof that it in any way provides health benefits.

Inaro insists that kerok is simply a way to fend off early symptoms before your cold or flu gets worse. "Obviously," says the 45-year-old who has worked as a becak driver for more than a decade, "if you’re genuinely sick, you should see a doctor. Kerokan isn't medicine. If you think you need medicine you should see a doctor. Almost anyone who has ever had kerokan or seen someone get kerokan can turn around and provide the service themselves. We do it all the time here while we are waiting for the train and the customers." Inaro explains that in the fleet of waiting becaks, there’s always someone who is feeling a bit tired, coughing and displaying flu-like symptoms. "All you need is a coin," he says with a smile. “Rather than swallow a bunch of pills or drink some medicine from a store, kerok is a natural way to fight against a cold. Natural is always good. It’s local knowledge passed down through generations, not some stuff in a fancy package.” The jury is still out on kerokan. But, like most traditional Indonesian medicines — jamu, massage and other healing measures — there is a strong coalition of adherents who openly subscribe and swear by the alternative knowledge technique. Maybe the most important question is how much the treatment costs? “How much you got?” Inaro says with a joking smile. It looks like laughter is still the best medicine.

Hush Petersen is currently on sabbatical from the hero's journey. He loves sipping Budweisers, doing the crossword and judging people outside Ranch Market in Mega Kuningan. You should join him some time.

INSPIRATIONS

AN ENDLESS JOURNEY

REFLECTIONS OF AN INDONESIAN JOURNALIST By Gail G. Collins

One doesn’t plan to live 97 years, but in doing so, it is impossible not to consider how it was accomplished, and moreover, what one contributed to the betterment of others during that lifetime. Herawati Diah has been described as the epitome of the Indonesian woman. Personally, she sees herself honouring traditional customs and a modern mind. This outlook translated as proud nationalism, when as a journalist, Herawati reported on Indonesia’s struggle for independence, and as an ambassador’s wife, she carried its culture abroad, and as leadership, she stood in the streets with women, urging them to find a strong voice. Benchmark moments in her life shaped her vision and steeled her steps for her book, An Endless Journey: Reflections of an Indonesian Journalist. Gracious, poised, warm and welcoming, she encourages anyone who has met her through the years to say hello at gatherings. And people do. Thoughtful and still sharp, Herawati remembers details and inquires as to others’ wellbeing. Perhaps, this decorum is born of diplomacy, but more likely, it is her innate curiosity and concern for the larger world. Born in 1917 into an upper class priyayi family, Herawati received a privileged education. Though other intellectuals travelled to colonial homelands in the Netherlands or Western Europe for school, her mother insisted her daughter study in Japan and America. “My independent spirit was fostered by my strong-minded mother,” Herawati said. She boarded with an American family to learn English and two years later, she attended Barnard College at Columbia University in New York. The seeds of journalism took root, and her career began. As the first Indonesian woman to graduate from an American college, Herawati came home a star with her choice of jobs—even a movie offer—but she also returned to a homeland on the brink of war. She became a stringer for United Press International, but the position was cut short when Japan bombed Pearl Harbor. With a command of English, Herawati was pressed into service in Indonesia as an announcer at Radio Hosokyoku during the Japanese occupation. The insipid news was propaganda, but the job led to meeting her life partner, B.M. Diah, who worked at Asia Raya. “He was good looking,” she said with a sly smile. They were married in 1942 and had three children. In August 1945, the Proclamation of Independence freed Indonesia and “merdeka” or “freedom” became the greeting on the street. It also became the banner on the newspaper B.M. founded. Its mission was to enrich the intellect of Indonesians. “Journalism demands a love of work, but there are also tasks that require attention to our conscience,” she wrote in her memoir. Six months before the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung, she founded the Indonesia Observer, the country’s only English newspaper for over a decade, providing a worldwide report for her people’s struggle.

“JOURNALISM DEMANDS A LOVE OF WORK, BUT THERE ARE ALSO TASKS THAT REQUIRE ATTENTION TO OUR CONSCIENCE.” HERAWATI DIAH In 1959, B.M. Diah received an ambassador posting in Czechoslovakia, and later Hungary, Thailand and Great Britain. Herawati packed cultural treasures from their home to introduce Indonesia to the world, even as their diplomatic journey introduced Herawati to kings, queens, presidents and statesmen. She left the business of reporting on Indonesia and began the job of representing it abroad with her integrity and intellect. Herawati noted as a journalist she had been a free spirit, but as a diplomat now, she must always be polite. Her memories of meeting famous personalities are animated. She has known every Indonesian president, Queen Elizabeth, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Henry Kissinger. He quizzed her on communist China. Herawati once consulted Ghandi on Indonesia’s fight for freedom, and he said, “When you truly believe it will succeed, then it will surely succeed.”

B.M. became the Minister of Information in 1968, and their connections to world leadership continued. Seeing historical preservation abroad led Herawati to guard her homeland’s culture. She took her case to Paris and Borobudur Temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The pioneering woman also established foundations, such as Indonesian Cultural Partners to protect treasures and textiles, Indonesian Women’s Association and others, which raised political awareness in women. She never lost her nose for news, pushing women’s concerns in the 1990s. “They embody half of the world’s population,” she wrote, “hardly the affairs of a minority.” She still reaches out, working with a yayasan to educate young children. If queried about who Herawati emulated, she said, “Anyone who can make our country free,” elaborating on equality in education, wealth and opportunity. She has travelled endlessly over the decades, always championing Indonesia and seeking to protect and progress it. Still, in her selfdeprecating way, she said about her memoir, “At most, please regard this book as a record of events in which I was involved.” Yes, involved and motivated by a deep love of country. Lastly, her secrets to a long life are not secrets at all, but the wisdom of the ages: Be strong, eat healthy — but not too much — live well and sleep well with no worries.

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FASHION

FROM LONDON TO THE JAKS

A Fashionista’s Journey

Being around glamour all her life, Victoria developed a sense of style that has led her to fashion styling, journalism and designing her debut collection. tori@toribannermanlondon.com

By Victoria Bannerman

Nonchalantly, Mr. Grubstaker dropped it in conversation over a glass of wine, "Hey doll, you fancy hanging out in the Jaks (Jakarta to you and me) for a while?” Well, I am about to launch my debut collection in London, I style people and their wardrobes, dress hire and offer literary musings — I thought why not? Styling and writing are ubiquitous. Without further ado, bags were packed, sixteen pieces of luggage, alas not Louis Vuitton but budget store TK Maxx, and with my impeccable taste, I managed to pull off the celebrity-with-tonnes-ofluggage look!

At PD you will find a smorgasbord of labels, such as Stella McCartney, Carven, Dries Van Norten, Tsumori Chisato and Junya Wantanabe, whose gaudy customised jeans are hideously kinky yet pleasantly attractive. Costing a king’s ransom, they are worth every damn hard shekel you will have ever worked for! My heart is set on a pair of sunset orange crepe shorts by Carven, which can work for both day and night, teamed with a crisp white t-shirt, skip load of bangles and across the body tasselled bag and you are über chic to go. Please don't go and buy the shorts, they are mine!

The Jaks has been a revelation and I have to say I am taking to it like a duck to water. Bahasa can only be described as a syrupy lullaby and the early morning muezzin calls to prayer are usually welcoming if you haven't been dancing the night away at some forbidden club! The people are charm-personified and their hospitality knows no bounds.

After shopping, order PD's Lychee Martini, sip and admire your purchases as you watch the world go by. They serve high tea with a deliciously delectable tasting Earl Grey served in quaint wrought iron tea pots, accompanied with pastries that would not be out of place at a Paris patisserie, and along with the small bowl of savoury angel hair pasta, it just adds a little je ne sais quoi to the high tea experience.

Junya Watanabe patchwork jeans

Carven orange shorts Floralia by Maison Francis Kurjdjian

Over the shoulder tassled bag by Steve Madden

White shirt by ZARA

Zadig & Voltaire spring summer 2014

My explorative instincts have led me to discover some interesting places that I have become attached to. The SKYE Bar on the fifty-sixth floor at the Menara BCA building is simply fantabulous. The food is scrumptiously fat-inducing in the most indulgent way. Their cocktail list is an impressive eclectic cornucopia of the amber nectar, designed to intoxicate your mitochondria! For my sins I have to confess that I love a Piña Colada, common I know, but sometimes it is OK to lower one’s standards and the SKYE Bar's is simply superlative. Try their drunken noodles and chicken wings and fly! The malls are behemoths, replete with all the designer labels your plastic friend will allow you to buy. My favourite has to be Pacific Place, and inside this haven is the modish Papillion Duo (PD), stocking sublimely redolent scents by Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Paris, that will have your olfactory nerves spinning with joy and render you incredibly irresistible! On offer too, are an array of teas, pastries, biscuits and scented candles. 14

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Glide the escalator to the fifth floor, where you will find Vinoteca. A dark moody pocket-size wine bar boutique, serving great food and wine that you can purchase too. Try the Kim Crawford Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc and be charmed as you are served by the eclectically beautiful Wicien. If you are decadence personified then fly to New York where the gourmet popcorn purveyor Populence have collaborated with Kim Crawford to create wine infused popcorn – yes, they have! Throw a soirée for the Jakarta elite and show off your popcorn! In the vicinity is the bucolic restaurant Potato Head. Order their tomato and mozzarella salad and feel your taste buds’ appreciation as it melts in your mouth. Their Wagyu beef ragout pappardelle is dangerously moreish, and as for their apple crumble, deliciously corruptive and then some. The Lafayette Galleries (I have a loyalty card already) is to me a mini Selfridges; they stock one of my favourite brands, the cool crazy sexy Zadig & Voltaire. If it’s good enough for Kate Moss….

Zara black crepe shorts with Gucci silk white shirt

Oud by Maison Francis Kurkdjian

If you want to throw some head-turning shapes, visit the rooftop Papilion bar in Kemang; it's a super duper cool lounge bar where the übers meet to show their splendiferous wares, self and wealth. The resident band MOM will get you on your feet and you may lose yourself watching the pint-sized singer's snake hips. Glorious! My only bugbear are the taxis (and traffic). Some will insist on taking you on a magical mystery tour to top up their meter. I had a slight contretemps with one which resulted in me being locked in his car as we discussed his wealth-enhancing tactics. It is quite humorous to be arguing with a language barrier, we could not understand each other but somehow we got our messages across!

Bravery permitting, I will try an ojek. It is a must, right? I have been propositioned by a hippy septuagenarian ojek-er, long white hair and sculptured torso, who suggestively patted his passenger seat for me to get on. Of course I declined! Be aware as you will find him whizzing round the roundabout at the Selamat Datang Monument between Plaza Indonesia and the Grand Hyatt, Kempinski, Mandarin Oriental and Grand Indonesia looking for "victims"! I will have to get used to the pedestrian pace and things not always working (it must be the heat), but hey, why sweat the small things?

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BUSINESS PROFILE

ceo of lifespa fitness

Brian Billdt

This issue we meet Brian Billdt, the CEO of LifeSpa Fitness whose life’s work is committed to making people look better, feel better and live longer. By Angela Richardson

In the late 90s when malls came out, people started moving to malls and malls became even more popular, resulting in people with money going to malls, which changed our program. What does your average customer spend a month on staying in shape at LifeSpa Fitness? The average customer in LifeSpa will pay about 15 dollars a month, but with personal training they would spend about 100 dollars a month. We don’t believe that it is really helpful to our members unless they join our personal training program as well. What’s happening in the world of fitness in Jakarta and Indonesia as a whole? Are you seeing a shift in people’s mindsets? Are more people trying to stay in shape? Just this morning I was people-watching at Starbucks in Senayan City. Starbucks was full of people and they were eating and drinking more like Americans than Americans. They were drinking sugary coffee drinks that cause obesity, which is becoming a huge problem here. When I came here in 1982 you could hardly see obesity in Indonesia, but now you see it everywhere. I think that western habits are taking over and dominating companies like McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s and so forth, are the fast food industries that cause people to get fat which means they have to go to the gym more, so I see the gym business continuing to grow and grow.

Please tell us a little bit about your company, LifeSpa Fitness. What makes you different from other gyms? The number one reason why we’re different is we try to take advantage of our locations, which is in hotels. Being in hotels, we have an advantage because we have gardens, swimming pools, tennis courts and outdoor activities. Also, our club gyms are smaller with limited space so we can have oneon-one experiences. We are trying to emphasize how our community and family atmosphere is felt more than at gyms in malls that are probably more teenage to young adult oriented. And we are trying to get all of our members personal trainers. A good personal trainer will help you become

successful. Members who don’t have trainers usually get lost at the gym, losing motivation. That is basically how we are trying to be different. I think the fact that we also have spas make us stand out from our competitors.

Our target market is quite different from our competitors’; we are trying to target the 30 and over crowd. We play our music a little bit softer in our gyms and we play music that’s a little more conducive to the 30 and over crowd.

Where are your gyms located in Jakarta and who is your target market? Our gyms are primarily located in hotels, that is the Sultan Hotel and Residence, The Crown Plaza, Park Lane Hotel, Kristal Hotel, and also Arcadia Office complex on TB Simatupang. We are also located at Unilever Corporate Headquarters, in Prabu Connoco Philips, Chevron, Freeport, Orang Tua group and many other corporate gyms.

Why did you choose to place your gyms in hotels and not malls? Basically, I started my entire career in Asia and back then health clubs were in hotels. When I came here in 1982, if you had money and wanted to hang out in a big city in Indonesia you would hang out in a hotel. Hotels had the best restaurants, night clubs and fitness centres, so the entire focus of the 80s to the 90s was hotel health clubs.

But once again the gym business’ finest success is helping people to get the results with a personal trainer who really helps them to change their lifestyle, which isn’t an easy thing to do. It’s a real challenge and we need trainers who are really good at doing what they do. That’s why we have PrimaFit Academy to train them so we can offer professional trainers to our clients and members. LifeSpa Fitness is affiliated with Crossfit Senayan and PrimaFit. Can you tell us about this affiliation? Crossfit Senayan is one of our lines of businesses; others are LifeSpa Fitness,

BUSINESS SNIPPET

Forward Thinking Companies Link Talent Management with Global Mobility

With organisations anticipating growth in assignment activity over the next 12 months, attention is likely to turn to how to supply the demand for candidates. It therefore makes sense that Global Mobility should go hand-in-hand with talent management. In fact the Global Mobility Survey 2014 — the world’s largest study of Global Mobility professionals with 1,269 respondents from around the world — reports that half of companies (47%) are already starting to make this a reality by linking their Global Mobility programmes to talent management. Companies that are linking their Global Mobility with Talent Management are most likely to be able to deal with increased demands in assignment activity and deliver results back to the business than companies that do not. Of those companies that link Talent and Mobility, over one third (36%) of these companies are able to draw assignees from a talent pipeline vs. only 15% of those without links to talent management. This makes a

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dramatic difference to the effectiveness of each assignment and the way that business is able to perform. Having a well-managed talent programme and linking it with your global mobility programme means that your business can be highly effective in identifying skills requirements, build its talent pool and have assignment-ready employees ready to meet the demands of your business. The 2014 Global Mobility Report investigates the linking of Talent and Global Mobility along with a commentary from an expert panel of highly respected Global Mobility commentators on best practices for setting up a talent management programme that is correctly aligned with Global Mobility — a must-read for all HR and Global Mobility professionals. "The 2014 Global Mobility Survey offers HR and Global Mobility professionals insight into trends and critical themes such as Talent Management.” Commented Mike Brazier, Global Mobility Survey Research Editor.

“But once again the gym business’ finest success is helping people to get the results with a personal trainer who really helps them to change their lifestyle, which isn’t an easy thing to do.” PrimaFit Retail and PrimaFit Commercial. Crossfit Senayan is for people who like training in groups, it is a very high-intensity and popular group workout. Everyday somewhere in the world a Crossfit Gym is opened. Crossfit Senayan is located next to LifeSpa Fitness Hotel Sultan, and we have about 70 athletes. The crossfit trend is really taking off here, although not without its dangers. Do you provide crossfit insurance for your customers? What safety measures do you have in place to avoid injuries? We require good coaching. I would not offer our members CrossFit without good coaching. I’m very proud that our CrossFit program emphasizes safety, injury-free regimes to our athletes so that they can work out for a long time. Is the health and wellness industry one that you would like to stay working in? Do you see this sector growing more and more in Indonesia? The health and wellness industry is the thing that keeps me going and I’m very passionate about it. I couldn’t think of a better business than helping other people to look better, feel better and live longer. That’s our vision and we do that by empowering people to change their lifestyles by defining fitness as not just a workout, but as a way of life. What is trending at the moment in Jakarta and Bali? Trending at the moment is Polar Loop, which can track how many steps that we take every day, how many calories we burn, and helping measure sleep quality. It’s a 24/7 activity tracker. Fitness now is more fun because of technology and different applications so you can be entertained while doing a workout.

Please tell us what your weekly exercise regime consists of. I am a morning workout person and I like to lead by myself. I prefer to do treadmill and bike for my cardiovascular exercise. I also go to LifeSpa Fitness for my weight training. And on Sunday morning I have my bike training, riding from Jakarta to Tangerang and back or Jakarta to Kelapa Gading and back. I run 5 – 10 kilometres twice a week. What is the minimum exercise everyone should be doing to stay in relatively good shape and live longer? I would say about 30 minutes of cardiovascular training, 15 minutes of weight training, three or four days a week. We sit way too much. Walking more is really important. What advice would you give to our readers who are struggling to stick to an exercise regime? Get a personal trainer. Nutrition is very important, as is resting time. And finally, what is your goal in life and how do you plan on achieving this? My goal in life is to continue to grow our business so that we can help people look better, feel better, and live longer by continuing to bring the newest of diet and exercise trends so that we can really make an impact on helping people to have a more enjoyable and healthy lifestyle. It’s really what we live for.

To get in touch with Brian, please e-mail: marcom@lifespafitness.com

The Global Mobility survey is commissioned by the Santa Fe Group, and conducted by independent research company Circle Research. Visit www.globalmobilitysurvey.com for more information. issue 118 indonesia expat

MUSIC

25 Years of Flawless Blues and Roots Music Words and photos by Angela Richardson

Byron Bay beach over Easter: full of holiday-makers

Dave Matthews Band

Afternoon entertainment at the Byron Bay Blues & Roots Festival, Australia

BYRON BAY BLUES & ROOTS FESTIVAL Easter Weekend Early Bird tickets for 2015 now on sale. http://www.bluesfest.com.au www.facebook.com/bluesfestbyronbay Direct flights available from Jakarta and Denpasar to Brisbane or the Gold Coast, Australia, with Garuda Indonesia, Emirates, Qantas and Virgin Australia. From Brisbane or the Gold Coast, daily buses are available to Byron Bay.

indonesia expat issue 118

What does one look for in a music festival? Of course, there are many different types depending on the kind of music you’re after, but usually we have our ears set to the sounds of great bands, uplifting vibes, excellent food and drink choices, a unique location with ample camping options and value for money. In Indonesia, we are getting more and more choices for live music, and although the scene is definitely improving, I still haven’t come across a music festival that has a real atmosphere. One festival in

particular, located at the most easterly point of neighbouring Australia, has the potential to be a convenient yearly escape for blues and roots music lovers in Indonesia and I went there to check it out. Blues and roots music is a wonderfully eclectic mix that covers many genres, having something for every music lover; blues music originating in the late 19th century from African-American communities in the ‘Deep South’, and roots music which identifies with a particular culture, including folk, Americana, reggae, bluegrass, country, traditional and world music. The Byron Bay Blues & Roots Festival celebrated its 25th birthday this year, with over 100,000 in attendance, and big acts such as Dave Matthews Band, Buddy Guy, The Wailers, John Butler Trio, Jack Johnson, The Doobie Brothers and John Mayer were a few of the names on the lineup across six tents. There were also acts who were recently welcomed at the Java Jazz Festival, including Allen Stone, Erykah Badu, Joss Stone and India Arie. The festivities in Byron Bay are held over a period of five days and always cross over the Easter weekend. Located at the Tygarah Tea Tree Farm, just a 20-minute bus ride from the idyllic beaches at Byron Bay, it’s a location difficult to top. Byron Bay in New South Wales was first settled by Europeans in 1770 when Captain James Cook found a safe anchorage and named Cape Byron after John Byron. Ironically, what was once a whaling town in the 50s is now an earth-loving hippy haven — a hub for surfers, music lovers and good vibrations — earning its hippy reputation when the Aquarius Festival was held in neighbouring Nimbin in 1973. The positivity of the host-town’s people was even noted by Dave Matthews, when he addressed his audience at his first performance, “I’ve been here for a week and it’s beautiful. The hospitality has been amazing!”

guitar.” As a reggae lover, I was thrilled the following day to witness Bob Marley’s remaining band members, The Wailers, play a 75-minute set of Marley classics, including Buffalo Soldier, Jammin’, Stir it Up and I Shot the Sheriff. The atmosphere was electric as the Rastafarian band’s fans danced the whole way through. On the third day (Saturday), John Butler Trio packed out the main stage, engaging fans with his guitar solos and political talks. Proceeding him was the headline act, Dave Matthews Band all the way from the USA. Dave Matthews is known for his exceptional live rock performances, accompanied by brass instruments and comedic banter, and he wowed the audience for a staggering 150 minutes. At every show he brings on a special guest, and at this performance we were graced by the presence of Warren Haynes playing an electric guitar solo introduction to All Along the Watchtower. It was goosebumpingly enchanting. Day four and five kept us entertained by positive vibration man (and adopted son of Byron Bay) Michael Franti, who brought in younger crowds and families, Elvis Costello and the Imposters, not to mention the blues legend Booker T. Jones. An older crowd enjoyed KC and the Sunshine Band on the final afternoon, playing dancing classic hits like Keep it Comin’ Love. What I love most about this festival, however, is taking a walk to the smaller tents to discover acts I’d never heard of before. One such act I discovered kept the crowd jumping through their eclectic Latin, funk, hip-hop, jazz vibes; a seven-piece bank called Ozomatli from LA. Another new act to my ears were The Beards, an Australian comedy, folk-rock band made of hairy men singing about beards — they have four albums of beard-related songs!

Staying in Byron Bay, you have the option to spend your mornings going for a swim or a surf in crystal clear waters and a good break, followed by listening to amazing buskers as you wonder through town admiring everyone’s fashion, enjoying delicious cuisine ranging from raw, vegan organic to pub grub, before hopping over to the festival when it opens its doors at noon, spending the rest of the day singing and dancing until midnight. If camping is your thing, the festival grounds have plenty of options, whether you’re in a tent or an RV, and busses to and from the festival run regularly. I’m told weather can sometimes be an issue and rains often accompany the festival, however I’ve been twice now and both times it has been sunny and warm throughout.

The Byron Bay Blues & Roots Festival is as much a music festival as it is a food festival, with tasty treats from all over the world — Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese, Hungarian, South American, Italian — not to mention bars and coffee shops, and is even complete with a Chai Tea cafe. A second VIP bar area was added this year and the VIP band can give you access to a bit of breathing space from the bustle of the festival, where you can relax on sofas, not to mention access queueless, more spacious and nicer toilets. Shop stalls beautifully decorate the festival, selling anything from artistic fairy lights to alpaca ponchos. During the day, acrobats and buskers perform side shows, and once the sun goes down, a parade of giant lanterns turn the atmosphere magical.

The festival was opened by Festival Director Peter Noble, who is a part-time resident of Bali, spending around three months a year in his home in Canggu. Peter gave some words of thanks before introducing the Arakwal People, the original habitants of the Byron Bay area. Peter is an advocate for preserving indigenous cultures, and he has another festival called Boomerang Festival, dedicated to indigenous music, which takes place in October, also at Tygarah.

Now if all that doesn’t sound amazing enough already, the icing on the cake is that everybody at the festival is down-to-earth, friendly and heart-warming, including the staff. Australians really do have a lovely temperament and this festival will make you fall in love with their laid back ways. Not one arrest was made at this year’s festival, but that doesn’t mean that everyone wasn’t having a good time!

Day one saw Buddy Guy headlining at Crossroads tent, and this 78-year-old blues guitar legend melted the audience with his smooth grooves and cheeky personality. As Jimi Hendrix said, “Heaven is lying at Buddy Guy's feet while listening to him play the

The Bluesfest is up there with Glastonbury and the New Orleans Jazz Festival, and it’s not much more than a flight away. I can’t recommend this festival enough to anyone in Indonesia who loves real music and wishes to completely unwind and remember what it is to smile at strangers.

IN ENGLISH ONLY

FIRST TIME IN JAKARTA!

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Meditation Made Simple™ is completely non-religious. The benefits of meditation practice include happiness, a calm mind, stress-free living, regulated blood pressure, stable emotions, control of anger and freedom from anxiety. Improved focus and concentration as a result of meditation create a stronger immune system. This leads to better health, complete relaxation of the nervous system and improved flow of life energy in the body.

Testimonial I just wanted to say thank you for your meditation class. I actually think that it has been life-changing for me. I am generally much happier now & focus on the positives in life which has lead to a different approach to work, more work-life balance and no more sleepless nights. The techniques are so simple and yet they really work. Thank you! -Liz Fendt

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SoulCentre Jakarta is an official licensee of SoulCentre Pte Ltd | www.soulcentre.org issue 118 indonesia expat

SPORTS

IN PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS

Antony is a freelance writer based in Jakarta. Please send comments and suggestions to antony@the-spiceislands.com

Expat Clubs in Bali By Antony Sutton

“…WHILE THERE ARE CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND PUBS FOR SERIAL NETWORKERS, THERE ARE ALSO CLUBS AND SOCIETIES OUT THERE DEVOTED TO THE PURSUIT OF UNINHIBITED FUN AND PLEASURE.”

For whatever reason, people have been forming clubs since time immemorial and it is no different here in Indonesia. Early colonials, for example, had the Harmoni Club. Today, the junction on which the venerable institution once stood is still called Harmoni, but it is perhaps best known for a major intersection for the busway, as well as traffic jams. The club traced its roots, at a different location, back to 1776 but it was demolished in 1985 to widen the road. As an indication of the type of punter that frequented the establishment, directly opposite stood Oger Frerers, a purveyor of the latest, finest gentleman’s fashions. Images from the 19th century show an idyllic scene; horse and carriage convey the well-dressed, rich from overseas along a rutted track, much like the average street in Banten province today, but without the horse manure, while natives lounge around under parasols or attempt to sweep the road. As you can imagine, the great and the good of the Batavia social scene would gather at the club, dressed in their best clothes purchased no doubt over the road, for the latest tunes and gossip. It would have been a very hierarchal society with the nabobs of business rubbing shoulders with politicians and policy makers, hoping to have a say in how things were run and hoping to exert some influence. Clubs still play an important part in the Indonesian expat experience and while there are chambers of commerce and pubs for serial networkers, there are also clubs and societies out there devoted to the pursuit of uninhibited fun and pleasure. And not just in Jakarta. Take Bali, you know, that island between Java and Lombok. Frequently referred to as the Island of the Gods by lazy headline writers, it is also home to a large number of expats and, much like the expat of an earlier age, the Bali expats do what they can to recreate a little bit of home on their little piece of tropical paradise. For example, they run. All those beaches, rice fields and volcanoes make for fertile ground for those who like to sweat the daily stresses out of their system. One running group in particular is known as the Hash, or the Hash House Harriers as they are more formally known (or the drinking club with a running problem as they see themselves). And there are quite a few of them!

indonesia expat issue 118

the Geckos and now they have a thriving setup, including a youth academy that will be sending some young players to Singapore in the near future for a friendly match.

Bali Geckos

You can learn more about the Geckos at their website, www.baligeckos.com

Bali Hash House Harriers by Bali Living Blog

Bali Masters

Bali is not just about hashing and AFL. There are plenty of places that offer yoga and spas for those ‘wellness’ aficionados out there. And there is the Bali International Women’s Association (www.biwa-bali.org). Their website doesn’t seem to have been updated for a while, so if anyone does have any news about the ladies and their activities please feel free to let us know and we will be happy to publicise their happenings. Piston Broke describe themselves as a social motorcycle group. Based in Sanur, their website says they like to party hard and they have their own clubhouse, Barb’s Sport Warung, also in Sanur. You can find more information on their website http:// pistonbrokebali.com.

Geckos in action

The Bali Hash House Harriers were founded back in 1976 and they run twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays. I say run. The beauty of the hash is the irreverence hashers feel towards the club. If you want to walk, then walk. If you want to run, then run. If you want to cheat, then cheat. But be warned, eyes are watching! Details of the Bali Hash can be found on their website www.bali-hash.com which has information of upcoming runs along with maps and photographs. Then there is the Bali HHH II and Bali Hash One for those who can’t get enough. Links to those sites can be found at the aforementioned website.

Raffles Golf Bali

While the Hash is a pretty genteel afternoon where one can enjoy picture postcard views and construction sites in equal measure, the Bali Geckos are a much more rough-andtumble Bali experience. The Geckos are the local Australian Rules football team. You know, the game played in Australia by big men in tight shorts and sleeveless tops. Well, the Geckos, in a nod to their environment, have spurned the traditional tight shorts common throughout the game and wear boardshorts instead! The club was formed in 1997, apparently after a visiting player from Jakarta was boasting the capital city had the finest players in the country. Bali responded with

When it comes to golf, Raffles Golf Bali is a social club based at New Kuta Golf in Pecatu. They have a round together on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, while they also play at other courses around the island at other times. Their website specifically states they welcome players of all abilities, so I may take them up on that next time I am on the island! They can be found through their website www.rafflesgolfbali.com. As this magazine spreads its wings around Indonesia, it would be great to hear about what sports and leisure activities are on offer in other parts of the archipelago. If you are involved with a club, it can be a women’s group, a bridge group or a social football, cricket, or rugby club, then please drop us an email with a few details and we will be happy to add you to a future issue.

Kenneth Yeung is a Jakarta-based editor

Car Theft

Hoaxes By Kenneth Yeung

“There’s a new method of car theft,” a colleague breathlessly told me last week. “Thieves throw an egg at your windscreen when you’re driving. If you turn on the wipers and the water-spray, the egg mess completely covers your windscreen. You can’t see, so you stop and then the thieves come and rob you.” When I questioned the veracity of this, another colleague chimed in, insisting it was true. She said Jakarta and Bogor are now being hit by a wave of car thefts involving egged windscreens, mostly targeting female drivers. She said motorists on the receiving end of an egg must not use the waterspray but should instead drive onward for a couple of kilometres and then stop somewhere safe and clean their windscreen. Seriously? Are thieves really throwing eggs at windscreens in order to steal cars or valuables from inside them? I looked online and the first result I found was the following warning posted by the East Java Traffic Police on their Facebook page: “If you are driving at night and eggs are thrown at your windscreen, DO NOT operate the wipers/ spray water/liquid of any kind. When egg is mixed with water it turns milky and blocks your vision up to 92.5%. You will be forced to stop on the side of the road and could be robbed. This is the latest method used by thieves. Simply turn on the wipers without water and carry on driving at a steady speed. Don’t panic or stop in the area.” Well, if the warning is coming from police, it must be true, right? Wrong. It’s a silly hoax, first propagated online many years ago and still being perpetuated by gullible people. The warning from the East Java Traffic Police has received 1,500 ‘likes’ and hundreds of comments of gratitude. If someone throws an egg on your windscreen, the wipers and water WILL wash it off. It won’t cause the ludicrously precise level of 92.5% blocked vision. The egg warning has been repeated by online news media, which should know better than to report urban myths as fact. Indonesian police were first duped by the hoax in 2008, when National Police spokesman Inspector General Sisno Adiwinoto said that if drivers exited their car to clean an egged windscreen with a rag, thieves would come and steal valuables from the vehicle.

Sisno admitted that police had not actually received any official reports about this type of crime. Not one. But he still held a press conference to warn that using wipers to clear an egg stain would make windscreens opaque. Many thefts go unreported in Indonesia because some police refuse to conduct an investigation unless the victim of the crime pays them a bribe. Yet in the case of egged windscreens, there never were any cases to report. It is possible that some criminals may be inspired to try the method described in the hoax, though it’s unlikely to work. At least one enterprising company is offering to provide a special windscreen that protects against “egg hurling gangsters”. Another bogus car theft warning spread online goes like this: “This has been happening in a couple of malls in Jakarta. Upon returning to your vehicle after shopping, you start reversing out of your parking space when you notice a large piece of piece of paper, some sort of advertising flyer, covering your rear windshield. So you get out of the car to remove the paper, at which point a carjacker will swoop and drive off in your car, or take your easily accessible bags, wallet, etc.” Again, this just isn’t true. Imagine trying to steal a car — while the owner is present and capable of raising the alarm — from a shopping mall car park, where there are exit barriers and guards. There’s no harm in advising motorists to always be wary of potential theft. But something is wrong if people, especially police and journalists, blindly believe hoaxes without bothering to investigate them. More broadly, it’s like believing that ghosts are real. It’s like believing that a man responsible for the abduction and torture of pro-democracy activists is the ideal sort of fellow to have running the country. Police and reporters should be educating the public, even encouraging critical thinking, rather than just blindly spreading lies. At any rate, I’ll have egg on my own face next time I report something as a fact without bothering to check my sources. issue 118 indonesia expat

WORTHY CAUSES

Sekolah Kami

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty for TrashPickers’ Children through Education By Gail G. Collins

As we approached the school to volunteer our time, girls swept with rush brooms and boys tidied up. They are used to picking up trash; many are the children of pemulung (scavengers). But their actions represent more than that. This is Sekolah Kami, or Our School in Indonesian, and these children have a sense of pride in their school that other students might take for granted. Sekolah Kami is located in Bekasi and serves families in Bintara and the surrounding areas. There are gardens, and the school is equipped with a sheltered, gathering place, a play area, and of course, many open-air classrooms. These are functional and noisy, but dry.

better future for them.” Even if the students cannot continue their education, she is glad to have provided them with good memories of friendships in a safe, beautiful place. Amy Shaw visited Sekolah Kami 18 months ago and quickly became a consistent helper. She had no vocational experience, but that didn’t stop her from volunteering to teach English to the students each week. Shaw is also a dynamo as far as fundraising. A recent event netted Rp.80 M, enough to build a classroom, repair an existing roof structure and fund a lunch program. The students generally have no breakfast at home, and previously, they had only a glass of milk for lunch. Now, the children might receive rice, meat and vegetables on a typical day. But there is an ongoing need. Shaw adores the students and says, “They learn functional skills like sewing, paper and soap-making from recycled products in the trash as well as subjects like Bahasa, English, maths, music and even some French lessons for the older children by a French volunteer lady.”

A wall surrounds the school, creating an oasis, but just beyond the gates, there is extreme poverty. Ramshackle lean-tos serve as homes for many of these children. Down the dusty path, come four girls, dressed in vivid football jerseys. They are eager for school as they pass through the gate. Over 160 students attend; in grade one through high school. The children love Sekolah Kami, but also work alongside their parents after classes and on the weekends. They help their parents pick through the landfill next to their home and sort the trash for sale to a middleman. Stephanie Stallings and I are helping Class Four and Five today. The youngsters are welcoming and curious, practicing their greetings in English. “Hello, how are you? I am fine. Where do you come from?” Their average age is 10 years. Some are quick in their lessons and some are slow. Some can’t sit still and some know all of the answers. They are like children everywhere—busy, busy, busy. Busy mouths singing, busy hands gripping a pencil, busy minds learning English and busy hearts helping one another. Stallings teaches the children English words for parts of the body and classroom items. They hunch over worksheets, and then check their work, before singing ‘Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes’. This shakes their sillies out. Later, the students craft sentences with the new words, using prepositions like ‘under’, ‘above’ and ‘behind’. There is a game of bingo to practice what they have learned, and a shout of “Bingo!” earns them some candy. There are lots of smiles and shouts as the children run outside to play. The boys have a ball, and that’s all that they need, and the girls have made a jump rope of knotted rubber bands. They dance back and forth, flying over the stretchy rope in practiced steps.

Sekolah Kami was founded by Irina Amongpradja in 2009 in its present location. Ibu Irina originally started a school in 2001 for transmigrant children, but because of property issues, she took her education to the streets before securing the dedicated site for Sekolah Kami. Ibu Irina graduated from medical school in 1984 and worked in East Timor before marrying her husband. They began a family and a life in Jakarta. She worked for the government in hospitals and a university, but wanted something more. With her children grown and gone, Ibu Irina looked for a new way to reach out to people. “Sekolah Kami is an attempt to break the vicious cycle of a life spent collecting empty plastic cups in the street,” she says. Education is not only learning, but recognising there can be more to their lives. “Sekolah Kami can be their stepping stone. It provides a childhood to every student—a childhood they deserve.” Tears begin to roll over Ibu Irina’s cheeks as she speaks. “These children have become like my own, it is a simple affair of the heart for me to provide the chance for a

Ibu Irina suggests coming to Sekolah Kami and meeting the children. “Give them some love,” she says, smiling. “Mingle, sing with them, offer them time and comfort. Do what you can—follow your heart.” When asked why she would give up her career to run Sekolah Kami, creating this oasis for pauper children, Ibu Irina says, “Something higher than me is in charge.”

Visit the website: www.sekolahkami.web.id Contact Ibu Irina at: sekolah.kami@yahoo.com

Gail Collins writes internationally for magazines and has co-written two books on expat life. She feels writing is the perfect excuse to talk to strangers and know the world around her better.

DUA TA NGA N CUKUP — ACT IONS F ROM ACROS S T HE A RCHIPEL AGO Raja Ampat in West Papua is known for being paradise for divers, bird-watchers and nature lovers. It is one of the world’s last remaining sanctuaries for flora and fauna. You would think that rubbish doesn’t end up on the beaches of islands in this area, but it does, as these holiday-makers discovered.

The divers said the main things washed up on the beach were plastic bottles, plastic bottle caps, straws, plastic bags, polystyrene pieces and single-serve plastic cups. Some of the more unusual items included plastic toy dinosaurs and toothbrushes.

These divers spent a week enjoying the bountiful sites in Raja Ampat and were based on Birie Island. One night a tropical storm fell over the island, bringing in rubbish with the tides, leaving the beach full of garbage in the morning. These cleanup heroes decided they wouldn’t leave the island looking this way, and grabbed some bags. In the space of two hours, they had cleared the beach of all litter, nearly stepping on a deadly sea snake while they were at it!

It’s terrible to see rubbish in paradise, but it’s good to know what kind of garbage is out there in the ocean and plastic and polystyrene are the main culprits. You can make a difference by reducing the amount of plastic you consume, eliminating plastic bags from your household diet completely. Use a reusable bag instead — they last for life! Practice the three Rs — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle — and let’s give our oceans a chance. We can’t rely on cleanup heroes alone to do the work. It’s a joint effort.

What’s your Dua Tangan Cukup Action? Send them to cleanupjktday@indonesiaexpat.biz and we’ll share them here to inspire others!

indonesia expat issue 118

LIGHT ENTERTAINMENT

The Curious Case of the Innocent Driver

* Answers in the next edition!

FOR THE MACET MIND

By Eamonn Sadler (www.eamonnsadler.com)

The university city of Oxford in which I am fortunate enough to have been born, raised and schooled, attracts approximately 9.5 million tourists per year. When you take into account the fact that Indonesia has targeted 9.2 million tourist arrivals for the entire country for 2014, you get some idea of the amount of tourists there are on the streets of the tiny City of Oxford at any given time. Many makers of movies, TV series and documentaries are also attracted to Oxford, lured no doubt by the picturesque countryside, the quaintness of the backstreets and the ancient grandeur of the architecture. Movies like The Italian Job (original version), A Fish Called Wanda, Saving Private Ryan and many others (including three of the Harry Potter series) were all filmed wholly, or in part, in and around Oxford. TV series like Morse (and its spin off Lewis) and The Midsomer Murders have also been filmed there along with numerous documentaries about the city’s many important contributions to medicine and science (although they are of course made there because the events happened there). Camera crews are a very familiar sight on Oxford’s noble streets. In 1984 I was offered a job as a driver on a movie called Young Sherlock Holmes, which was directed by Barry Levinson (best known for Wag the Dog, Rain Man and Good Morning Vietnam) and being shot in part at Radley College in Oxford, by coincidence very close to my father’s house. I jumped at the chance to rub shoulders with movie stars and I got as close as I could to all the action as the magic of the movies was unveiled before my eyes. It was fascinating to watch the scenes being shot and then compare them to how they appeared in the finished movie. Sequences shot in broad daylight were magically transformed to become shadowy and mysterious, and brightly lit interior scenes seemed to benefit from nothing more than naked candlelight when I watched the movie after its release the following year. It was all very clever and super-interesting to my naïve young mind. The role of Sherlock Holmes was played by Nicholas Rowe, Watson was played by Alan

Cox and Holmes’ love interest Elizabeth Hardy was played by Sophie Ward. One lunch time, one of the assistant directors asked if anybody knew of a good pub nearby where the lead actors could go and get some lunch and kill some time while a particularly complex scene was set up. I raised my hand and said I knew the area well and there was a nice pub nearby called The Bowyer Arms. The assistant director pointed at me and said, “Right, you can take them, have them back by 3pm.” And so it was that I spent a few surreal hours in The Bowyer Arms not 500 metres from my father’s house, eating and drinking and playing darts with Holmes, Watson and the demure Elizabeth Hardy, all in full costume and makeup and drawing more than a little attention from the locals. It was all great fun and they were very friendly to me, not caring that I was a mere driver and not discriminating against me in any way. We bought rounds and took turns on the dart board like a regular group of friends. A few people asked me what was going on (because I was the only one in normal clothes and not wearing makeup) and I took great pleasure in saying nonchalantly, “Oh, we’re shooting a movie up the road”. The actors smiled when they heard it. Very cool of them and very uncool of me, but what the hell - how many chances do you get? Unfortunately, when we got back I got fired. Not for letting the precious actors drink too much and not for bringing them back late, but because the other drivers had mistakenly tucked into the crew’s sumptuous lunch buffet rather than partaking of the cheese sandwiches they were supposed to eat. Apparently 20 hungry drivers had inflicted serious damage on several plates of cooked ham, sushi and foie gras before anyone could stop them. The director fired the company I worked for, which meant all the drivers had to go, including me. Holmes pleaded my case but to no avail. Without the company I had no contract and no insurance so I was down the road with everybody else. Falsely accused and condemned despite the help of history’s greatest detective. Just my luck.

To read more by Eamonn Sadler, go to www.eamonnsadler.com to find out more about live StandUp Comedy in Indonesia please e-mail info@jakartacomedyclub.com text or call 0821 1194 3084 or register at www.jakartacomedyclub.com

Across

DOWN

1. Chip in — supply (10)

1. Plant used in salads (5)

7. Day set aside for celebration (8)

2. Unaffected (7)

8. Skin problem (4)

3. Enthusiastically favourable review (4)

9. Certain (4)

4. Set of posts supporting a rail (8)

10. One abstaining from worldly comforts (7)

5. Element (5)

12. Warlike (11)

6. Maintain (6)

14. Crime (7)

11. Reveal (8)

16. Thin sheet of metal (4)

12. Previously ? in front (6)

19. Slashing knife (4)

13. Graceful (7)

20. Stab Cleo (anag) — which hinders

15. Artist's stand (5)

progress (8) 21. Blowfly (10)

17. Misleading (5) 18. Capital of Norway (4)

Answers of issue 117 ACROSS — 5. Pessimistic 7. Envy 8. Appendix 9. Terrier 11. Pitch 13. Folly 14. Tragedy 16. Misplace 17. Hunt 18. Malevolence DOWN — 1. Espy 2. Citadel 3. Nippy 4. Standing 5. Pandemonium 6. Coincidence 10. Roly-poly 12. Orderly 15. Salve 17. Hind

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issue 118 indonesia expat

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Pullman Jakarta Central Park Thai Food Promotion JAKARTA Collage, Pullman Jakarta Central Park’s all-day dining restaurant, will carry a month-long Thai food celebration. With the arrival of guest chef Patcharaporn Punphul from Novotel Bangkok, he brings with him a taste of Thai food to Collage from May until June 2014. Thai delicacies will be part of Collage’s buffet menu during this time and the guest chef will be part of the culinary team, sharing her knowledge on authentic Thai food cuisines. The lunch buffet is offered at Rp.248K++/person during the weekdays (at 12pm-3pm) and the dinner buffet is offered at 6pm – 10pm for Rp.269++/person. Some dishes are available for in-room dining.

The St. Regis Bali Resort Debuts the Island’s First Midnight Supper BALI The St. Regis Bali Resort hosted its first exclusive Midnight Supper at the resort’s beachfront Cloud Nine Terrace on May 20th, 2014. This exquisite event was a culmination of the luxury resort’s yearlong, 360-degree celebrations to mark its 5th Anniversary. Having launched island-renowned, premier Wine & Dine events, The St. Regis Bali Resort once again raised the bar as the island’s “Originator of Concept”

with the Midnight Supper. Culinary connoisseurs had the opportunity to partake in an exclusive experience featuring a ten-course, ten-hand menu collaboration of five outstanding chefs from St. Regis hotels in Asia: Chef de Cuisine Toshifumi Nakahigashi from La Vedutta Italian restaurant at The St. Regis Osaka, Chinese Sichuan Chef de Cuisine Mike Li from The

Purestretch (Motion Dynamics®) Package Launched at Annabe Pilates Studio JAKARTA Motion Dynamics® is a stretching program designed to reshape body postures, fix unbalance muscles and joint sockets, as well as restructuring bad habits relating to body position. Motion Dynamics, originally formulated by Chris Watts (www.chriswatts.biz) uses biomechanical techniques and has strong cores in flexibility. Annabe Pilates Studio in Kemang, Jakarta has

Banyan Tree Group Launches Attractively Priced Holiday Homes in Bintan for Indonesia Investors

Global Jaya International School Organized a Charity Flea Market Event JAKARTA With a little elbow grease, students at Global Jaya International organized a Flea Market event for charity. This is a task given to the students in order to develop feelings of responsibility and social consciousness within their community. The Flea Market is an annual social activity that serves as part of Year 11’s Creativity Action and Service (CAS) programme requirements. On 10 May 2014, from 9am to 12pm, members of the GJIS neighbouring community gathered at the school’s premises to

buy reasonably priced goods, donated by the students. Items such as clothes, shoes and bags were priced at Rp.5,000 up to Rp.20,000 for 800 low income families who live nearby the school. Students were encouraged to learn about organizing large social events, from getting sponsors to collecting donation goods and selling them. Same as last year’s effort to build and develop a soccer program at a neighbouring local school, the money raised from the event this year will also be invested back to the community.

EIBN Presented The European Pavilion at The Wine & Cheese Expo JAKARTA Taking into account the EU-Indonesia Business Network’s general goal, which is to enhance and diversify trade and European business investments in Indonesia, the F&B sector could only be of primary importance to the project. The EIBN participated in the Wine & Cheese Expo 2014 with a European Pavilion, a space where EU companies in the F&B sector showcased their products and made contact with local business agents, potential partners and end-consumers. The Wine & Cheese Expo 2014 dedicated its first week (9 – 18 May) to European F&B products. In this context, the EIBN indonesia expat issue 118

launched a combined package of conditioning/ bodyworks training and Motion Dynamics at their studio. The training program is offered privately (one trainer for every client) as physical needs vary from one client to the other. Motion Dynamics has been offered at Annabe for quite some time, and its trainers are fully certified for it. The package emphasizes the combined benefits of bodyworks and Motion Dynamics.

BINTAN With the launch of Laguna Shores Bintan, Indonesia-based investors now have the opportunity to secure a beachfront holiday home in the Riau Islands province — developed by the established Banyan Tree Group. Bintan is easily accessible via a direct flight from Jakarta to Tanjung Pinang or via a 45 minute high-speed ferry from Singapore. With one and two bedroom units available starting from SGD 210,000 Laguna Shores Bintan offers Indonesia-based investors a holiday home amidst the natural beauty of Tanjung Said Bay, which boasts a pristine beach and lush rainforest. Located within the integrated resort of Laguna Bintan, owners will also have access to the restaurants and spas at the award-winning Banyan Tree Bintan and Angsana Bintan as well as the 18-hole Laguna Bintan Golf Club, designed by Greg Norman.

St. Regis Chengdu, Chef de Cuisine Carlo Valenziano from Jojo Italian signature restaurant at The St. Regis Bangkok, Executive Chef Agung Ardiawan and Executive Sous Chef & Chef de Cuisine of Kayuputi restaurant Agung Gede from The St. Regis Bali Resort.

presented the European Pavilion. This section of the exhibit featured products from several EU countries, promoting various products and companies related to the F&B sector, including wineries, cheese producers, chocolate producers and other premium foods companies. The European Pavilion was one of the highlights of the Wine & Cheese Expo 2014, creating a unique meeting opportunity for both professionals and consumers.

National English Challenge by The British Institute (TBI) JAKARTA In celebrating their 30th year of operation, as well as commemorating the National Education Day, The British Institute (TBI) is holding a National English Challenge. The competition is organized to challenge and evoke motivation on Indonesians learning English. The TBI English Challenge 2014 boasts two categories of contest; a nationwide high-school level Speech Competition and a universitylevel Debate Contest. The preliminary rounds have already started, with TBI Pajajaran and TBI Siliwangi completing its first rounds on 3 May 2014. TBI Serpong, Cibubur, Depok and Bandung followed with their elimination rounds early in May 2014. Jakarta and Malang started their competitions on 10 and 17 May, respectively. Debate topics are chosen by juries; they include topics such as Traditional Culture in a Modern World, Indonesian Government, Education and Human Rights. The top two students from each TBI branch will compete in the grand final round, which is set to be held on Saturday & Sunday, 24 – 25 May 2014 at 8am until 4pm. Winners will be granted trophies, cash prizes and certificates from the Indonesian Ministry of Education.

ADVERTORIAL

KIDS & TEENS’ FAVOURITE ACTIVITIES AT ROCKSTAR GYM Rockstar Gym is a one-stop children and teen physical development centre. Children experience fun activities while developing physical, emotional and life skills in a safe and positive environment. Through self-discovery and exploration, children aged six months to 16 years old build confidence and develop an appreciation for a healthy active lifestyle.

OUR PROGRAMS We extend the concept of kids and teens fitness exercise programs by offering attractive and complete facilities for Gymnastics, Ballet, Dance Martial Arts, FunFit and Sports where all children and teenagers alike enjoy our programs. Rockstar Gym’s Academy Programs are comprehensive learning programs that give students knowledge in skills and techniques in all of our different genres. With our well-trained staff and redesigned curriculums, your kids are sure to have fun and be superstars. We set our Academy Programs apart from others in several ways.

Our Hip Hop Academy classes are based on Hip Hop Curriculum® from the USA that focuses on skills, techniques and cultures of Hip Hop while making it into simple choreography. Entry level skills are developed to enable the kids to set goals and be as creative as possible.

We are applying the best curriculum and we redefine them to suit our members’ needs. Entry level skills are developed to enhance and motivate our students to perform better in class. Our diversified instructor teams, from locals to expats, are typically both professional educators as well as professionals in their own chosen fields. With their dynamic backgrounds in their areas of expertise, they are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in their respective classes. To make our classes better and take the FUN seriously, we use only the best equipment and are always up to date with the latest trends. Every child has their own way to express and show their personal best. To give them appreciation, Rockstar Gym issues awards and certificates for every achievement made throughout every term.

With representatives from World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) and national champions, our Taekwondo Academy Program is sure to not only develop strength and the proper techniques, but also to learn discipline and self-respect.

Rockstar Gym’s Gymnastics adapts the USAG Jr. Olympic Program, further refined by gymnastics and preschool experts from the U.S. and adapted by our team of respected national gymnasts with over 20 years of direct experience. We have further developed our Gymnastics levelling classes to build strength, confidence, agility, balance and coordination in a FUN yet fulfilling manner.

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Moving on to our Ballet, we are adapting on the Royal Academy of Dance and Bolshoi curriculums, Rockstar Gym developed its own curriculum that will best aid in instilling discipline, grace, poise and musicality in our future ballerinas.

Parkour is running, climbing, vaulting, jumping, traversing, balancing or any other physical means to get from one point to another. It is a method that involves learning to overcome one’s fears and limitations by mastering the body-mind nexus and coordination of one’s own movement in any terrain. What about the sports? Yes, there is a variety of sports programs, such as futsal, swimming, tennis, and basketball. Our in-house sports curriculum is design to be a solid foundation that can be used for life through the positive impact, developing motor skills and cognitive potential, while understanding the rules and strategy of all sports. They will also learn how to cope with winning and losing.

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EVENTS CAPABILITIES During children’s physical development, there is an advantage to start at an early age to teach healthy lifestyles actions such as exercising. We are introducing Private/Semi Coaching to encourage the children to do more exercise. Our diversified instructor teams are going to teach the correct techniques and the proper way of doing sports. Private coaching programs include Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Sports, Futsal, Swimming, Tennis, Basketball, Ballet, and Dance. Our School Field Trips programs are designed to be fun, exciting, and educational. The unique thing in these programs is that the students have more class options, such as Cheerleading, Yoga, and Belly Dancing. Enjoy our Birthday Packages for kids with three theme options: RockFun, RockAmazing, and RockGlam with private rooms for parties, special classes, and interactive games. These activities are available in Plaza Indonesia, Gandaria City, Mall of Indonesia, Kota Kasablanka and Bintaro Xchange with a variety in each gym. We also have programs for adults, especially for you and your co-workers. Our club based in Mall Kota Kasablanka, has a large indoor and outdoor concept which accommodates over 1,000 people. This venue is perfect for Corporate Events, Weddings, Gatherings, etc. This fully-facilitated sports arena for you and your workmates can be rented. We have affordable prices, the most strategic location in the middle of the office area, and the most complete sports facilities that you can find in Jakarta. You are able to work out and enjoy the indoor and outdoor courts for two hours or more.

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issue 118 indonesia expat

EVENTS If you want your event to be posted here, please contact (+62) 0 21 7179 4550 or e-mail: events@indonesiaexpat.biz

JAKARTA Sports

Indonesian Rugby 10th Anniversary Dinner 24 May 2014 After 10 years of existence in Indonesia, the Indonesian Rugby Union will celebrate their hardearned work by throw ing an anniversary dinner, starting at 7pm at a five-star hotel (to be announced upon registration). Joe Roff, a member of the 1999 Rugby World Cup Champion team, will be a guest speaker for the night. Tickets are now on sale for Rp.1,100,000/person or Rp.10,000,000 for a table of 10 people. These prices include a five-star buffet dinner, free flow of drinks and raffle prizes. There will be rugby memorabilia and other prizes up for auction. The money raised from the auction will be donated for further developments of grassroots rugby in Indonesia. RSVP to Peter Klestov. (021) 719 4813 / 0813 8138-0114. www.indonesiarugbyunion. pitchero.com

Gold, Rp.3,000,000 for Ruby and Rp.4,000,000 for Diamond. The concert is set to start at 8pm. Tickets are available on www. rajakarcis.com, www.electroniccity.com and www.lamusicstore. co.id as well as radio and online contests. MEIS is located in Ancol Beach City Lifestyle Mall, 2nd f loor E5, Jl. Pasir Putih Raya, North Jakarta.

Peter Cetera ‘The Inspiration’ Live in Jakarta 6 June 2014 Long-time chart topper Peter Cetera will share his musical talents w ith Jakar ta at The Kasablanka at Kota Kasablanka Mall. Titled ‘The Inspiration’, this concert will feature the singer/ songwriter’s greatest hits such as ‘You’re the Inspiration’, ‘Glory of Love’, ‘Hard to Say I’m Sorry’ and ‘If You Leave Me Now ’. Tickets are available at Silver Early Bird for Rp.880K, Bronze Early Bird for Rp.704K, VVIP for Rp.3,300,000, Diamond for Rp.2,200,000 and G old for Rp.1,650,000. Purcha se at w w w.rajakarcis.com. The Inspiration is set to start at 8pm. The Kasablanka is located on Jl. Casablanca Raya Kav. 88. Photoraphy

Music Bertrand Meunier Photography Exhibition ‘Hub Side Down’

Taylor Swift Red Tour 4 June 2014 Taylor Swift, winner of seven Grammy awards, will be the centre of pop culture in Jakarta on 4 June 2014 at the MEIS (Mata Elang International Stadium) in Ancol. Swift will be promoting her album Red, where worldwide hit songs like ‘22’, ‘I Knew You were Trouble’ and ‘We are Never Getting Back Together’ are found. Tickets are sold at Rp.800K for Festival level, Rp.1,250,000 for Silver level, Rp.2,000,000 for

indonesia expat issue 118

24 May – 10 June 2014 Photographer Ber trand Meunier returns to display his new collection, giving guests a representation of the conditions of people, the city and their homes through his captured images. Meunier, a member of Tendance Floue – a vanguard photographer’s collective in France - has collected these photographs in Asia’s metropolis cities like Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, Singapore and Jakarta. Titled ‘Hub Side Down’, the exhibition will take place at Galeri Salihara, Jl. Salihara 16, Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta. Contact: (021) 789-1202. www.salihara.org/en Charity Pour les Enfants de la Rue Garage Sale 24 May 2014 A French-Indonesian charity association, PER or Pour les

Enfants de la Rue (For the Street Children) will host a garage sale. Open for public, this garage sale will commence on Saturday, 24 May 2014 from 9am to 1pm. The proceeds from this event will be used to benefit street children of Jakarta. There is an entrance fee of Rp.5,000. The event will be taking place at the French International School Jakarta (Lycée International Français de Jakarta), Jalan Cipete Dalam No.32, Cipete, South Jakarta. PER is encouraging those who are keen to donate items for the garage sale to benefit the cause. Donated items could be anything from DVDs, clothes, toys, furniture, l i ne n s , e t c . D on a t ion s a r e accepted until 22 May 2014. For information on donation drop-off locations and on the event itself, email press.per.jakarta@gmail. com or per.jakarta@gmail.com. www.perjakarta.org

BALI Exhibition

Bali and Beyond Travel Fair 10 – 14 June 2014 The first ever Bali and Beyond Travel Fair will be hosted in both Nusa Dua (for Business Sessions) and Kuta for Direct Promotion. The main aim for the fair is to provide a ‘buyer meet seller’ platform for the creative tourism industry professionals. The program includes four days of seminars and exhibitions, with a chance of a post-event tour around Bali. To find out more about the fair’s venue and registration, call the Bali and Beyond Travel Fa i r S e c r e t a r i a t o f f i c e o n (0361) 243-225 or email info@ baliandbeyondtravelfair.com. www.baliandbeyondtravelfair. com Music

Mbira Workshop in Bali 29 June – 12 July 2014 The mystical and cultural music of Zimbabwe’s Shona, featuring the wooden instrument Mbira, is an artform that is available in Bali. Workshops are offered on Shona music and mastering

the art of playing the Mbira as well as studying the Balinese gamelan music. Guests w ill be taught by Erica Azim and Z i mbabwe a n ma st er Mbi ra ma ker a nd player, L eona rd Chiyanike. If guests would like to opt for shorter courses, there are one-week sessions offered on 29 June – 5 July and 6-12 July 2014. Workshops are held at the Flower Mountain (Girikusuma Payangan), a world music retreat centre in the mountains. To register, send an email to erica@ mbira.org or visit www.mbira.org. Sports

Bali’s Toughest 29 June 2014 T he t oug he s t r a c e i n B a l i , featuring 15 obstacles in six 2.5km loops of a race – totalling to 15km of running course - is conveniently called ‘Bali’s Toughest’. Designed to be similar to Tough Mudder and events alike, Bali’s Toughest’s obstacles include monkey bars, cargo nets, swinging over iced water, crawling under w ires, etc. The race can be entered by individuals or teams of three. The rendezvous and starting point is at the Mertasari Beach, Sanur. For a fee of $40/person registrants will gain entry to the race, a t-shirt, certif icate of completion and medals. All proceeds from the race will benefit the Bali Sports Foundation’s Disabled Sports program. For registration, email info@balisports.com or info@ balistoughest.com. Website: www. balistoughest.com

Literature

BALIKPAPAN Expo

Indonesia’s Hidden Heritage Book Signing

Balikpapan Expo 2014

8 June 2014 Meet the authors of the recently launched book Indonesia’s Hidden Heritage — Cultural Journeys of Discovery, Stephanie Brookes and David Metcalf. The book was launched in March 2014 at Museum Nasional Jakarta by Indonesia’s Minister of Culture and Education. Held at Murni’s Warung, Ubud, the book signing will start at 4.30pm. Watch the book comes to life as David and Stephanie present their cultural journey, told in portraits and stories. Murni’s Warung is located on Jl. R aya Ubud, Gia nya r. For more information, email stephtravelwriter@gmail.com or RSVP to murni@murnis.com

12 – 14 June 2014 A n int er nat iona l ex po, t he Balikpapan Expo is a platform of meeting between representatives for mining, oil and gas companies supporters. At the same time the expo gives a chance to get familiar w ith biotechnolog y applications in the industr y. Exhibitors in the expo will include airlift companies, helidecks, logistics, air pollution monitoring equipments and companies alike. The Balikpapan Expo will be housed in the Balikpapan Sport & Convention Centre, Jl. Ruhui Rahayu, Ring Road, Balikpapan. For more infor mat ion, c a ll (021) 3141-970 or email info@ sinarexpoprima.com. www.sinarexpoprima.com

Fundraising

KALIMANTAN

Paw Day by JAAN 1 June 2014 Jakarta Animal Aid Network holds their annual fundraiser, Paw Day: A dog walk at Taman Langsat Park at 8am. Tickets available at Animal Clinic Jakarta or through bank transfer or at the door. Email info@jakartaanimalaid.com

LOMBOK Arts

Health

Younger Next Year Asia Summit

Lombok International Dance Festival

27 June 2014 The health and fitness scene of Bali will be graced by the presence of a massive lineup of well-known speakers specializing in nutrition, body and mind fitness, anti-aging therapies and future-proofing the brain, all packaged into one summit titled ‘Younger Next Year’. This full-day summit’s entrance fee of $349 includes wellness seminars, morning tea, a healthy lunch, entertainment, goodie bags and cocktails. Younger Next Year Asia will be held at the Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali, Jl. Raya Tanah Lot, Tabanan, Bali. For more information and to register, call 0813 3832 5637 or email kerry@ youngernextyearasia.com. www.youngernextyearasia.com

21 – 22 June 2014 The L ombok Int er nat iona l Dance Festival w ill present t wo prestig ious events over the course of t wo days; the World Dance Championship in Artistic & Freestyle dancing and the International Dance Asia’s Open Ballroom and Latin Championship. Both events are held at the Santosa Villas & Resort, Senggigi, Lombok. There will be open classes and workshops for many types of dancing, and the competition is open for solo, duo and team performers as well as junior, youths and adult performers. For more information and to register, email rm@purimas-lombok.com. www.purimas-lombok.com

Photography Borneo Photography Tour 2014 26 May – 3 June 2014 Join experienced photographers Dayak Dave Metcalf and Mark R ay ner in a n ex ped ition to photograph the w ild Borneo ju ng le s. The t ou r w i l l a lso i nclude t he oppor t u n it y t o c apt u r e t he Day a k c u lt u r e and tradition while exploring remote villages. Dave and Mark have a wealth of experience in photography tours that they could share with you. Visit www. davidmetcalfphotography.com for more details and reservation.

ABROAD Photography Sri Lanka Photography Tour 4 – 15 August 2014 David Metcalf is offering you a chance for an odyssey you don’t want to miss; a photography tour to Sri Lanka. Amidst the architecture ruins, w ildlife, b e a u t i f u l t e a pl a n t a t i o n s , colourful ceremonies, rainforests and mountain peaks, you can capture some of the greatest images of your lifetime. The tour will be guided by seasoned photographers, David Metcalf and Mark Rayner. E-mail to davidmetcalf3@mac.com or visit www.davidmetcalfphotography. com for reservation.

HUMOROUS OBSERVATIONS

THEBIGNOISE

Daniel Pope is a part-time hedonist, residing mostly in Jakarta, where he still finds everything a bit of a rum do.

By Daniel Pope

There was no point in complaining to anyone. Nor was it prudent to take matters into one's own hands. Many a foreigner has been beaten up and imprisoned for careering into a mosque in an apoplectic, sleepless state, begging for mercy and yanking the plug of the loudspeaker.

Jakarta is not the ideal domicile for a person fond of peace and quiet. It is packed with roaring vehicles, policemen blowing whistles, parking attendants who spring up to shout directions, needlessly, at any car already starting to park. Noise rules supreme in Indonesia’s capital city. Come here and you will be lashed by loudness, tortured by tumult, riled by racket, deafened by din, clobbered by clamour.

It was when the wailing from the mosques triggered nightmares about being hounded by zombies that I moved house again. This time I lived in a gated ethnic Chinese compound. I thought I had finally found sanctuary. There were no mosques, Jakarta's Chinese generally being either Christian or Buddhist. That they tended to be uninterested in foreigners was no bad thing either. Indeed, it was liberating to walk among people and feel invisible.

Noise doesn't even have to be loud to be a nuisance. Early on I lived in a kos, a lodging house made up of single-room accommodation. The cheapest of these places often had dividing walls so thin, made of plywood or chipboard, as to seem to be mere gestures. A friend once told me how two people fighting in the room next to his busted through the wall, still throwing punches at each other. Though I hardly ever set eyes on the man living in the room next to mine I knew him intimately from the sounds he made (and doubtless he knew me by mine). I knew when he dropped a coin, took off his shoes, put down a pen, broke wind. I often felt that if I turned over on my side in bed, I’d see his face on the pillow staring back at me.

But I hadn't counted on the caged dogs, or the dogs tethered to stakes — and every garden had them — barking, yowling and howling throughout the night. Unless I wanted to broaden my CV to serial killer of dogs, prowling the neighbourhood after dark and distributing raw steaks laced with strychnine, I would have to move again.

When he installed a booming hi-fi system, I fled to another kos. This one was more upmarket, with the rooms set around a grass quadrangle and each with its own basic veranda. I was perfectly content. I drank tea and read a lot. But it wasn't to last. A departing resident donated his television set to the staff who, with no room of their own to put it in, placed it on a table in the centre of the lawn. Television sets are everywhere in Jakarta, from waiting rooms to sidewalks to the back of taxi seat headrests. But, from the number of viewers this donated TV attracted each evening until well into the early hours, you'd have thought it was some sort of extraterrestrial device that had crashed to Earth from space. So powerful was its pull that it brought out even those who had a television set of their own. They gathered around it and gawped. Even at low volume, Indonesian soap operas are not quiet affairs. At a volume deemed suitable for outdoor viewing, they sound like they're set in amplified ape enclosures with the screeching, gibbering cast all nudging one another with electric cattle prods. And the buck-toothed dwarf is always the loudest. Until he’s interrupted by the ear-splitting advertisements for powdered milk, skin whitening creams and instant noodles. Fed up with trying to sleep with my pillow wrapped round my head, I fled once more, this time to a friend's spare room. Alas, with its semi-open design common to the tropics, and being set away from the road by a tightrope of a pavement, my friend's house welcomed noise and received plenty of it. Bajaj, those small three-wheeled farting taxis originating

“What made it particularly exasperating was that the landlord had bought the bird with money from my first month's rent, and hung it by my window. Was he trying to drive me out so soon?"

from India, were a constant din. Their buzzing twostroke engines made the road outside sound like a chainsaw revving competition being held on a busy World War I aircraft landing strip.

I rented a modest apartment behind a convenience store, whose balcony projected to almost beneath my window. On it were some battered old chairs and a giant orange plastic water tank. Occasionally, a member of staff materialised on one of the chairs for a quiet smoke. The trouble started when the tank's valve system stopped working and the water overflowed. I’m not talking about the babble of a brook or the trickle of a stream. This was the noise made by water on plastic and cement. It drove me nuts. A handyman did eventually appear to ease my torture, or so I thought, because rather than repair the mechanism, as you might expect him to do, he instead hammered a drainage hole in the corner of the balcony floor, enabling the overflowing water to slosh and splatter and drip — all very loudly — onto the echoing concrete floor of the disused building below. Out came the packing cases again. A caged bird was the problem at my next residence. What made it particularly exasperating was that the landlord had bought the bird with money from my first month's rent, and hung it by my window. Was he trying to drive me out so soon? I don't agree with birds being caged. They should be free to spread their wings as nature intended.

In Jakarta, God works in loud ways and by far the greatest cacophony comes from the local mosques. I'd been in the city for three years and thought I'd heard the worst of it. I once entered an alley with perfect hearing and exited at the other end temporarily deafened because I hadn't noticed the giant megaphone bolted to the wall halfway down, its cable snaking to the adjacent mosque. It was as if I'd activated it by tripwire, though it had just been bad timing with the call to prayer commencing. Possibly the preacher was seeking to awaken the dead.

My sympathy for this particular bird, however, was eroded by its shrill chirping and twittering, which destroyed my daytime concentration. I began to plot ways of killing it; perhaps subtly with poisoned seed, or perhaps slightly less subtly by hurling the cage and its occupant onto the road. Complaining to the landlord produced only self-conscious chuckles that indicated he was embarrassed at failing utterly to understand what was wrong.

My friend's house was at the centre of four mosques, an excessive number considering the tiny size of the neighbourhood. Back then I was a younger man, and the pre-dawn call to prayer coincided with my rolling into bed after a night out. Only in the most life-threateningly paralytic states was I able to fall asleep amid the amplified amplitude.

And that's the heart of the problem. The majority of people in Jakarta accept noise or genuinely aren't bothered by it. Noise is part of the landscape. It's easy to be cruel and to say that some people aren't disturbed by noise simply because there's nothing in their heads to disturb. But we won't go there. We'll just shut up and be quiet and not add to the noise.

issue 118 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 15.000 copies bi-weekly. Next deadline: 27 May

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JAKARTA AUTOMOTIVE Honda Splash 47,000 km 2010. I have to leave Jak so I sell my sweet blue car. Perfect for urban driving 115 jutas 081237799623

I am selling a 2012 white and black Kawasaki KLX 150. The bike has less than 5,000 kilometers on it. It has mostly been used to come to and from work which is very close. It is in great condition. It has been maintained ver y c a ref u l ly w it h f requent oi l changes and servicing. I live in BSD if you are interested in seeing it. ONLY SERIOUS BUYERS REPLY PLEASE. CASH ONLY. 19,000,000 Rupiah or relative amount in USD. Bike is not available until June 1st.

For Rent Marbella Kemang Residence Apartment (1 unit), 1 bedroom, semi furnished, include kitchen set, if you are interested please contact 081317810789 Available for rent: small unit apartment, fully furnished, 33m2 in Kalibata City www.kalibatacity. com South Jkt, Tower: Damar (D), 2nd floor, small balcony, garden view, 2 bedrooms, shower room, living room & kitchen area. Apt has complete facilities: food stalls, shopping malls in basement, restaurants, banks/exchange money, etc. Price: IDR5 million ++ per mth (negotiable). Pls wa/ call: Elisabeth 081 2828 7048 or e-mail on perellye@hotmail.com

PROPERTY

Hou s e for r ent ne a rby J IS Terogong. The house is new with 4 bedroom (2 ensuite) and 3 1/2 bath, living and dining room, kitchen, and nice huge attic that can be used as a playroom, bedroom, or office. There is a garage and 2 cars carport, front yard, terrace in the back and side of the house as well as a service quarter. I am asking for USD 1,500 per month with a minimum contract of 2 years. If you'd like to see the house, please contact me at 081317722271 / amalia. frese@gmail.com

FOR R E N T: A PA RT ME N T KUNINGAN PLACE. 2+1 BR, 2+1 Bathroom, Size 90m2, @ Kuningan, Furnished. Contact Leny +62818894319 or email : hlm_leny@yahoo.com

indonesia expat issue 118

Houses for Rent : 2 nice houses 2 storey, one large join pool, beautiful garden, 24 security c ompou nd, no c ement wa l l between houses in the compound, ea ch approx 500m2 house with 1,000m 2 land, located at Jl.Margasatwa Raya, 10 Minutes to Cilandak Commercial Estate, @ USD 2,500,– to USD 3,000,per month with min one year lease. If interested (no Broker/ Agent), call owner 0811180605

Very nice, furnished studio apt for rent. U residence, Lippo Village, Tangerang. Rp 3.5 million weekly, Rp 11 million monthly. Hamptons Park Apartment for Rent. Pondok Indah/Cilandak, Opposite Hotel Kristal. Tower A. 58m2, 2 BedR, 2 BathR, 1 c a r spa c e. Fu l ly Fu r n ished , no agent, available now. Big swimming pools, gym, sauna, tennis court. Indomaret and laundr y facilities w ithin building, across the road from

Hero Supermarket and eateries. Contact owner Fiona 0811210889 JOBS

if you have information, please call to my phone 085777705616. Thank you very much. SERVICES

Jobs available Indonesia Expat is recruiting! Indonesia Expat is looking for a Graphic Designer (local) to join our team under the supervision of our Head Designer. The Ideal candidate should have two years experience in magazine design and layout, w ith experience in creative a dver tisement creation. Please send CV with prev ious work ex a mple s t o info@indonesiaexpat.biz Only successful candidates will be contacted for interview. Good luck! Want to volunteer with a young social enterprise? At ‘Ffrash’ we offer a challenging volunteering opportunity for a target-driven, experienced sales professional (flexible hours, 3 days a week). ‘Ffrash’ is a recently introduced interior design brand, with a social and sustainable character. ‘Ffrash’ produces high-quality sustainable design furniture and home interior products from Indonesian trash. The products are designed on a pro bono basis by internationally renowned Dutch designers and created by former Indonesian street children from the ages 17 to 19. We have recently started selling our products in Indonesia. The proceeds benefit the further development of the ‘Ffrash’ young adults, production, and training. Remaining revenues will be put aside to finance the start-up costs of their own enterprise in the near future. The higher the sales, the more will be saved for the ‘Ffrash’ artisans for their future plans and the more street children will be able to join the project. Therefore, we are currently looking for a Sales Volunteer for Jakarta. For more information, please contact Gina Provó Kluit at 0811-9107399 or gina@ffrash.com. For more information about ‘Ffrash’, please visit our website www.ffrash.com Looking for work My name is Hegki Hikmawan, 27, I live in Cipete, South Jakarta. I’m looking for a job as daily driver,

Teacher come to your house. Experienced mathematics teacher will help you with your math!! Easy to understand, makes math become fun and interesting. For grade 4 to 12 . Fee is Rp.300.000 per coming (90 minutes). Pls call 0853 8727 8583 or 0857 7723 2751 (Mr. Charlie). tx Gbu You can take Bahasa Indonesia that we offer 30 hours of each level (Basic,Interm & Advanced). We can come to your office or home.Conversation class (20 hours plus half day field trip) scheduled in June – July. BISOL Jakarta @ Kemang, office ; 7114 8841 or 0822 3308 5108 or ellis@ trainingaustralia.or.id Medical & Life Insurance for Expats and Renters Insurance (coverage for personal property in your leased home) For a free quote and or more information e-mail Insurance@jakres.com Tutoring services throughout i nt er nat iona l st udent s. We prov ide tutor in all subjects including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Accounting,Bussiness, English, Chinese, French, Bahasa Indonesia, etc. For Primar y, Secondary (IGCSE/MYP), Senior High, IB (SL/HL), A/AS Level, SAT and also for students who want to apply for SIMAK UI. - Tutor comes to your house - Tutorial is explained in English - We make sure we match you with the right tutor Promo May & June 2014 : Free of Registration Fee (Save up to Rp 500.000,-) Discrete Private GDC, Melati, C3-25 HP. 0821 3600 8800 (Mr. Asep) (WhatsApp On) Hello, I am Herry professional greeting service at Soekarno Hatta airport Jakarta. Need Fast Track Immigration upon arrival and departure including check in assistance and porterage e t c . , ple a s e c ont a c t me a t 081317927009, 087808522300, pin 7a4da199. Thanks. Hello, need Bahasa Indonesia tutor? I have f lexible time and materials (reading, listening and practising) to teach privately.

dbee_curly@hotmail.com. +62 87 88 434 7878 TR A DITIONA L M A SSAGE . Come to your place 8am - 8pm. SMS : 0888.0813.0450 Spanish Tutor : Learn Spanish at your place with a DELE Certified Examiner from Spain. Most of my students come from International Schools (JIS and BIS). Please call me (Raúl) +6282110502786 Email: unascartas@yahoo.com

Have you ever been scammed and deceived from your hard earning money in Indonesia? We are capable of assisting you to get your money back. Must have paperwork to back-up your claim. For free and confidential consultation, please contact Bill at 081 807 78 2720 or BillThieroff@ gmail.com Wanna learn bahasa at your house or office ? U can send me an email constantponggawa@ymail.com Hi....i am a male singer.can sing any kind of songs.i usually sing on parties,such as wedding or birthday party.i'd love to if there is any chance for me to be join any kind of band.email me at mjazzmark@gmail.com OTHER For sale a 4.5' x 9' Thunderbird billiard table. 3 piece 1" Italian slate, 100% rubber cushions, empire rail pockets, quar ter saw n ma hoga ny heav y dut y frame. Comes complete with all accessories including a set of pool balls and a set of billiard balls. Asking price is Rp 8 million, contact 68bushy@gmail.com I am selling a full size billiard table that comes with everything including a lamp to hang above it. The pool table was originally purchased for $1,300. I am also selling a stainless steel gas BBQ. This BBQ was originally bought for $500. I am selling both for the price of $600. Separately, I am asking $550 for the pool table and $150 for the BBQ. Please email me with any inquiries. ryanlouderback@gmail.com

World’s l a r g e s t g a l le r y o f Indonesian Antiques (3000), textiles (1000), Stone Sculptures (350) Tr iba l A r t , Weapons, Paintings, Graphics and other Works of Art, Unset Indonesian G e m s (2 0 0 0) A nt iq ue a nd Tribal Jewelry, Multi-AwardWinning Contemporary Jewelry & much more. Knowledgeable foreign curator; free book on Indonesian history & ar tefacts on al l purchases. Dharma Mulia Galleries, Jl. Ir. H. Juanda (Ciputat Raya) 50, 7 days, 9 - 5 . i ndone s i a n t i que s .com; jewelsby i rwan.com; museumofindonesiangemstones. com. There’s no other place like this in Indonesia. In Bali— Gems and Jewelry at: Mozaic Restaurant, Jl. Raya Sangingan, Ubud and Hotel Tugu Bali, Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu. Further info tel: 0811824302

BOGOR JOBS Jobs Available Bogor International Language Institute is opening soon in C i bi nong , B o g or. We o f f e r English courses to students of all ages (toddler to adults). We are currently looking for EFL teachers w ith a minimum of CELTA , CTEFL, or other English related qualifications. If you're interested in joining our team, please send your CV to j.ellenvania@gmail. com

SUKABUMI SERVICES For Jawa Barat area , especially Sukabumi Area.When you Need for car and driver with english language I am more than happy to serve you. +6281380191913, yahya.al.jari@tri.blackberry.com

BANDUNG PROPERTY

A delightful newly renovated home: 3 bed room + 1 ma id bedroom, 3 bathroom + 1 toilet. Located in a quiet neighborhood in north Bandung. Garage for 1 car and carport for 1 car. Small garden

at the front and large garden at the back. A big balcony on the second f loor at the back of the house for barbeque area. Newly renovated kitchen. Pls call +62 8122007155 OTHER For sale: Six vouchers (each for one night stay) in The Classic room at the luxurious The Papandayan hotel, Bandung. Breakfast for two (2) persons included. Each voucher is priced at Rp.600K (room value: Rp.1million). Voucher is valid until 31 May 2014. Reservations must be made in advance, so email info@indonesiaexpat.biz to purchase the ticket and book your relaxing getaway soon!

PELABUHAN RATU PROPERTY

Discover Villa Gamrang. Experience our hospitality and stay in your own beach house. V i l l a G a m r a ng (C i s olok , 4 hours ‘drive from Jakarta and 50 minutes from Sawarna beach ) is designed to offer guests a beaut if u l nat u re, c omplet e privacy and luxury. Recently listed (Jan 9, 2014) in the "Top 100 Holiday Bea ch Houses around the world", Guardian Newspaper. Stylish interior, out door t er ra ce, sea v iew, spacious garden, swimming pool, 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, complete kitchen, TV and Wi fi. Idyllic place for couples or families. Separate guesthouse with 1 bathroom and 2 bedrooms. Friendly staff and female cook. In house catering. Prices starting from IDR 1,499,000 per night for the ma in v illa a nd IDR 800,000 for our Guesthouse, Villa Gamrang is highly appreciated b y e x p a t s a nd I nd one s i a n families. Reservations. www. villa-gamrang.nl or just mail us directly at villagamrang@ gmail.com

If you think you have something that would be of interest please reply with your local Bali number and I shall contact you during our stay. Bindimay71@yahoo.com.au

Zen Villa 2 bdrms 2 ensuites plunge pool bale bengong air cond ceiling fans fully furnished 2 TV's Printer/copier/scanner WiFi parking 24/7 security. Available now US $20000 pa. Apply to allan.liene@gmail.com

House for sale. Sanur, Bali. Total area 150 m2. 2 f loors, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 garages, swimming pool. USD 270,000. Interested? Contact Stella 0818881708.

BALI

OTHER

PROPERTY

Building your luxury villa? Take a look at 8 seater fully lacquered dining table and 2,15m sideboard in solid close grained dark teak in superb condition to command your dining area 081999571288, Sanur, Bali

Wanted Long term villa to rent July-Oct 2014. Looking for quality 2 bedroom villa to rent in Sanur, Seminyak area. Secure gated and modern. Clean with pool. We will be in Bali from 23/5/14 till 9/6/14.

DO YOU HAVE AN EXISTING PENSION IN THE UK? REGAIN CONTROL WITH A QROPS. KEY ADVANTAGES OF A QUALIFIED RECOGNISED OVERSEAS PENSION SCHEME: • FLEXIBLE BENEFITS – UP TO 30% OPTIONAL LUMP SUM AND/ OR INCOME FROM AGE 55 • SUCCESSION PLANNING – PENSION NOT SURRENDERED ON DEATH, BENEFITS PASS TO NOMINATED BENEFICIARIES • TAX EFFICIENCY – BENEFITS FALL OUTSIDE UK INCOME AND INHERITANCE TAX REGIMES • INVESTMENT CHOICE – NO OBLIGATION TO PURCHASE AN ANNUITY. CHOOSE FROM A WIDE RANGE OF ASSET CLASSES

Contact us for competitive advertising rates and get noticed through our printed publication, e-newsletter and on our website. ads@indonesiaexpat.biz

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON QROPS PLEASE E-MAIL INFO@GMS-FINANCIAL.COM OR CALL (021) 520 3574

PT ARIPA MAKMUR PERSADA Graha Aktiva (American Express Building) 4 th Floor, Suite 405, Jl. H. R. Rasuna Said, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950 - Indonesia

issue 118 indonesia expat

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

G4S Indonesia has been operating for over 15 years and employs over 12,000 employees. G4S Indonesia specializes in outsourcing of business processes in sectors where security and safety risks and considered a strategic threat. We help our customers to manage this challenge by determining effective measurable security strategies to: • Improve revenue growth or manage costs better • Improve asset protection and manage risks effectively • Improve a customer's service delivery Cilandak Commercial Estate Unit 407 Jl. Cilandak KKO, Jakarta 12560 Phone: 021 788 36107 E-mail: info@id.g4s.com Website: www.g4s.com

Scan your books to read them on the go! PT. MegaEnviron is specialized in scanning books even without removing the book bindings (non-destructive scan). Other services include scanning documents, photographs,films, and slides, data entry, managing documents and database. Contact: Charoen Sanpawa Mobile: 0811-930-3744 Office: 021-632-6667. E-mail:charoen@megaenviron.com Website: www.megaenviron.com

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

Relax. We carry the load.

Safe Stories Counselling Service for Children and Young People Offering Play, Art and Drama Therapy

PT. Jakarta Real Estate Solutions

Global Doctor Indonesia Jalan Kemang Raya 87 12730, Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia Phone: +62 (0) 21 719 4565 E-mail: tessa@globaldoctor.co.id

Wisma Kemang 4th Floor, Jl Kemang Selatan Raya No. 1, Jakarta 12560 Phone: 021 7132 4283 e-mail: admin@jakres.com Website: www.jakres.com

Medical evacuation health and life insurance. Let us diagnose your needs. Contact: Paul Beale Mobile: +62 816 137 0663 Office: +62 21 522 0990 E-mail: paulbeale@gms-financial.com

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

Your peace of mind is our highest priority. One company Allied to Allied, over 800 locations worldwide. Your specialist in household goods moving services. Jakarta: (021) 780 7851 Surabaya: (031) 749 8377 E-mail: info@alliedpickfords.co.id Web: www.alliedpickfords.co.id

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.

Bartele Gallery is the only dedicated shop in Indonesia which focuses on antique maps, prints, photographs, books and antiquities, ideal for a unique gift for that special someone. Come and browse through hundreds of old and original maps and prints from all across the globe!

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

Call us +62 (0) 21 719 0087 or E-mail: bartele.santema@gmail.com and visit our Facebook: facebook.com/ bartelegallery for more information.

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

TO BOOK SPACE ON THIS DIRECTORY PAGE CALL: 021 7179 4550

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indonesia expat issue 118

issue 118 indonesia expat

indonesia expat issue 118