Indonesia Expat – issue 138

E! FR E I S S U E N O . 13 8 | 2 5 M A R C H – 7 A P R I L 2 0 15

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

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

INVESTOR'S GUIDE TO INDONESIA: MARKETING TO INDONESIA'S DIVERSE MUSLIM POPULATION

UNCERTAINTY FOR DEATH ROW FOREIGNERS IN THE FACE OF FURTHER DELAYS MEET BRUNO COURBET OF CLUB MED INDONESIA

HELPING CHILDREN IN NEED WITH MARY'S CANCER KIDDIES 2015 SPRING/SUMMER FASHION TREND RUNDOWN

VISITING AN EXPAT IN PRISON

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indonesia expat issue 138

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Dear Readers, Editor in Chief Angela Richardson

Editorial Enquiries letters@indonesiaexpat.biz

Management Edo Frese edo@indonesiaexpat.biz

Sales Dian Mardianingsih ads@indonesiaexpat.biz

Distribution & Admin Juni Setiawan admin@indonesiaexpat.biz

Graphics Frederick Ng Katarina Anindita

Finance Lini Verawaty finance@indonesiaexpat.biz

Contributors Victoria Bannerman Leighton Cosseboom Karen Davis Stephen DeMeulenaere Annali Hayward Aryo Moedanton Eamonn Sadler Grace Susetyo Antony Sutton Kenneth Yeung

Over the last month, I’ve noticed a tension in the air amongst expatriates living in Indonesia. There’s been a feeling of uncertainty, especially when it comes to visa regulations – we saw the introduction of a new six-month KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas – temporary stay card) and witnessed the retirement age for foreign workers in certain sectors being reduced to 55 years of age.

As of 1 March, new visa applications from expats already in the country (not including visa renewals) must be made via www. imigrasi.go.id. This new online portal

Circulation Enquiries info@indonesiaexpat.biz

has a maximum capacity of a few hundred applications a day – a number which seems to be exceeded on a daily basis, as it can take several days of repeated attempts before an application successfully goes through the system.

end there, however. Once on Indonesian soil, the worker must submit their passport to Immigration and wait around three days before being called in for fingerprints and photographs and eventually given their passports back.

What’s next is a phone call from an immigration representative to schedule a meeting at your house. This is certainly unusual and some expats worry it could be another way of extorting the applicant. You will even have the chance to take a selfie with your immigration officer, which he/she will bring back to their office as evidence. The immigration officer takes it from there and you will know in a week or two whether or not your application has been successful.

It would seem that the changes have been brought about by the Ministry of Manpower in an attempt to clamp down on illegal workers. We also have an update for you about the Indonesian language test – please turn to page 10 for more information.

If you’re applying for a KITAS to bring in a foreign worker into the country, the process has also become more difficult. The initial application must be submitted to the Ministry of Manpower for approval, from which a recommendation letter will be sent to Immigration to process. Paperwork required during this process has extended to marriage licenses, which was never the case before.

Once approved, a telex will be sent to the Indonesian embassy at the foreign worker’s respective country. The application does not

Although many expats are leaving, in recent news, with the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) rolling out later this year, Indonesia will be opening a wide range of business sectors—including communications and transportation— to foreign ownership. Next year, ASEAN members will be required to allow foreign ownership up to 70 percent, an increase from 51 percent at present. We’ll be monitoring the situation and bring you further updates as they come.

Angela Richardson Editor in Chief

Subscriptions subscriptions@indonesiaexpat.biz

Events

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

events@indonesiaexpat.biz

Published by PT. Koleksi Klasik Indonesia Graha Eka Formula Building 3rd floor, #302 Jl. Bangka Raya No. 2 Kemang, Jakarta T: 021 719 5908 (sales/editorial) 021 719 3409 (admin/finance) F: 021 719 3409 Office hours: 09.00–17.00 Monday–Friday

Dear Angela,

Dear H.G,

It looks like my wife and I will be repatriating in a few months. I am going to miss many aspects of Indonesia, but of course not the Jakarta traffic!

This will be my third retirement, so it probably won’t be too permanent.

Maybe next year we will be back for shorter stints under a consultant-type basis. No lack of work here (still) in my line of work.

Thank you for writing and we’re sorry to hear you’re leaving.

SKK Migas (Satuan Kerja Khusus Pelaksana Kegiatan Usaha Hulu Minyak dan Gas Bumi – special task force for upscale oil and gas business activities) and MIGAS (Minyak dan Gas Bumi – oil and gas department) have lowered the expat age to 55, but I'm not sure if this change originates from the department of manpower or not. I could have gotten another KITAS through a third party but it would have cost about USD 28,000 for setup and then 5-10% of my monthly salary. All this for just a one-year permit that would not be cost recoverable against production. It is a racket, full of corruption!

All the best for your repatriation!

We will look into this new retirement age policy in the oil and gas, and other industries, and present an article on the topic in the next few issues. It seems many people will find this information useful.

INDONESIA EXPAT IS PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY BY PT. KOLEKSI KLASIK INDONESIA. OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS PUBLICATION ARE THOSE OF THE WRITERS AND THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMMISIONS, OR COMPLAINTS ARISING THERE FROM. NO PARTS OF THIS PUBLICATION CAN BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN PRINT OR ELECTRONICALLY WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER. ALL TRADEMARKS, LOGOS, BRANDS AND DESIGNS ARE COPYRIGHT AND FULLY

Many Thanks Angela & IE Team

RESERVED BY PT. KOLEKSI KLASIK

I wish you and the team all the best.

INDONESIA.

Many Thanks H. G

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Issue 138

Contents

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Feature Story Jakarta's Asian-African Conference Approaches as More Drug Traffickers Face the Firing Squads

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Scams in the City No End to the Stupidity

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Expat Outreach

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Meet the Expat Fighting Remote Poverty in Bali: Meet David Booth

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Sports United by Running

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Worthy Causes Helping the Kiddies in Need

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Announcements

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Light Entertainment The Old Hands

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Observations Tales from the Kantor Floor

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Events

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Business Directory

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Classifieds

Expat Business

Featured Marketing in Indonesia's Diverse Muslim Population Business Profile Bruno Courbet, Country Manager of Club Med Indonesia

Expat Lifestyle

Food & Drink The Clandestine Critic: Low-Salt Grill Travel Diving after the Mines: Ratatotok Beach

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Music All that Jazz

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Fashion The Spring-Summer 2015 Rundown

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Meet the Expat Meet Ramon Medina

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Prison Tales Just Visiting

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FEATURE STORY Leighton Cosseboom is an American journalist based in Jakarta. He covers a variety of topics related to business and economics in Southeast Asia.

Jakarta’s Asian-African Conference Approaches, as More Drug Traffickers Face the Firing Squad

By Leighton Cosseboom

Myuran Sukumaran and Andrew Chan of the Bali Nine are still scheduled to be executed, even though legal appeals have postponed the executions indefinitely. Amidst controversy, Tony Abbott asks Jokowi to return his phone call.

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ack in January, Edith Visvanathan stood in front of a crowd in Sydney. “Please, give him a second chance. Don’t kill him, please,” said the elderly woman earnestly. “He has proved himself. He is a good boy.” Visvanathan, whose plea was directed at Indonesian president Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, is the grandmother of Myuran Sukumaran, a convicted drug trafficker on death row in Indonesia.

For those who haven’t been keeping up with the story, Sukumaran was arrested in April 2005 for his involvement in the infamous Bali Nine case, in which nine Australians attempted to smuggle 8.3 kilograms of heroin into the country. The case has been a controversial global issue for the better part of a decade now, and at the time, the estimated street value of the group’s contraband was around US$3.1 million.

In the years that followed, sentences were doled out to the convicts, ranging from 20 years to life in prison. However, as Myuran Sukumaran and fellow smuggler Andrew Chan were the ringleaders of the operation, they were the only two sentenced to death by firing squad.

You’ve probably heard it on the airplane when you land in Jakarta: “The penalty for drug trafficking is death.” The statement is jarring, and some passengers routinely double-check their baggage to ensure they aren’t unknowingly carrying someone else’s contraband. However, this message seems to often fall by the wayside, as the majority of drug traffickers convicted in Indonesia never actually end up taking bullets in the chest. The Bali Nine are an interesting example of this, as the majority of the group have been allowed to continue breathing, although imprisoned for life. Additionally, over the past two months, Jokowi has even commuted the death penalty for three men convicted of premeditated murder in Indonesia.

Evidently, narcotics are something Jokowi is taking seriously, declaring a national emergency on illegal drugs earlier this year. As Indonesia Expat previously reported, the archipelago claims to be one of the hardest nations on drug users and traffickers. However, according to recent statistics from the government, about 50 drug users die of their addictions across the nation each day. That’s roughly one every half hour, every day and every night.

Based on those stats, the argument could 6

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Chan and Sukumaran (courtesy of news.com.au)

be made that the existence of foreign drug traffickers is not the sole catalyst in the country’s drug epidemic, but rather, poor domestic law enforcement and police corruption could play a bigger role. In January, five Indonesian police officers were arrested on drug charges; one had over 7,000 ecstasy pills and 700 grams of methamphetamine.

TEMPERATURES RISE IN THE TIMOR SEA Sukumaran and Chan were not as lucky as their accomplices, and the two are set to be executed soon. However, Australia’s SBS reported that Chan and Sukumaran will get at least one more visit from their families, an event that took place

on Monday, as prime minister Tony Abbott tries to keep the diplomatic channels with Australia and Indonesia open to stop the executions.

Jokowi has yet to return Abbott’s phone call from two weeks ago with an answer to Abbott’s request for clemency, and legal appeals of death row prisoners delay the firing squad.

"He might think that the subject has been well and truly discussed, but my request for a phone call stands and it's up to the Indonesian president to respond," Abbott told reporters in Sydney.

Harm Reduction International is a non-governmental organisation

Sbamueller (CC)

(NGO) in special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. “The death penalty for drug offences represents the sharp end of the world’s failed war on drugs, disproportionately punishing the vulnerable while failing to tackle entrenched forces of crime and corruption,” said Dr Rick Lines, executive director of the NGO in a statement earlier this month.

Jeremy Douglas, regional representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, recently told Indonesia Expat that it’s very important for countries like Indonesia to build effective law enforcement and justice responses for narcotics offences. Douglas believes all nations should cooperate with neighbouring countries to control drug production and trafficking. “A balanced approach will help minimise the negative impact of drugs,” says Douglas.

Jokowi’s hard-line stance on drug traffickers could be interpreted as the opposite of balanced. As a result, the diplomatic relationship between Australia and Indonesia is stressed to say the least. Incidentally, Abbott’s policy of the turning back of asylum-seeking boats bound for Australia from Indonesia has not helped the situation for Chan and Sukumaran. Additionally, Indonesia recently announced it would scrap several visa requirements for foreign tourists who want to visit the archipelago. The changes will apply to an additional 30 countries, but Australia is not one of them.

Smuggled heroine courtesy of UK Home Office (CC)

Indonesia’s tourism minister Arif Yahya denies this decision is tied to the planned executions of Chan and Sukumaran, who are among eight other convicted traffickers facing the firing squad. Nevertheless, last year Australians accounted for 12 percent of foreigners that vacationed in Indonesia, according to the Central Statistics Agency.

If what Yahya says is true, this means that Indonesia’s tourism ministry could be ignoring a substantial opportunity to

Sukumaran, may not take place until after the Asian-African Conference in Jakarta ends in late April.

The first Asian-African Conference, which commenced 60 years ago, was attended mainly by countries that were emerging from colonial rule, and led to the 10-point Bandung Declaration on human rights.

The declaration, which remains in force today, states that member nations respect

Sukumaran's grandmother pleading for clemency

“On Thursday 19 March, Government officials said it could take months to resolve legal appeals before sentences are carried out for both Sukumaran and Chan, as well as up to nine other drug smugglers.” boost the economy for no official reason.

Singapore and Malaysia are the only two countries ahead of Australia in terms of tourist numbers in Indonesia. However, both nations are also member of ASEAN, and can therefore travel in Indonesia without visas anyway.

AN OPPORTUNITY FOR MERCY ON DRUG TRAFFICKERS There may yet be hope for the two Australians, however, as local media outlet Kompas reported last week, a court spokesman said the next batch of executions could now be delayed for “months.” On Thursday 19 March, Government officials said it could take months to resolve legal appeals before sentences are carried out for both Sukumaran and Chan, as well as up to nine other drug smugglers. Rumours are also circulating that the executions of up to 11 drug smugglers, including Chan and

fundamental human rights and adhere to the purposes and principles of the United Nations charter.

“This is the perfect moment for the world to remember that Indonesia has played a fundamental role in global history, which we hope to rekindle through this commemorative event,” said President Jokowi in a statement.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirms that there will be no Australian representatives at the conference. However, if President Jokowi wanted to use the occasion to show goodwill to the world and regain global popularity, he could do well politically to offer clemency to the traffickers during the event without being perceived as a leader that is soft on drug crime. Only time will tell, as the next couple months may define Joko’s presidency. issue 138 indonesia expat

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EXPAT BUSINESS FEATURED

A N IN V E S TOR ' S GU IDE TO INDONE SIA

Marketing to Indonesia’s Diverse Muslim Population Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world. For this reason, foreign investors need a working knowledge of how best to market in the archipelago.

By Aryo Moedanton

Indonesia’s religious landscape is unique, as the local Muslim community clocks in at more than 88 percent of the total population. By 2030, this number is projected to reach 238 million, according to research by the US-based Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life. What’s interesting is that if we talk about religion in Indonesia, we are not talking about strict Islamic practices as they exist in places like Saudi Arabia or Iran – countries we can categorise as theocracies, or governments in which priests rule in the name of a God. Indonesia, on the other hand, can best be characterised as a religious democracy, as the nation does indeed incorporate Islamic-based teachings into its policymaking. This includes Islamic prayer at most state ceremonies, and presidential vows. It also can be seen in the nation’s regulations on food and alcohol.

However, Indonesian Muslims are observably more tolerant of other cultures and religions than perhaps people are in other Muslim-majority nations, according to Freedom House, an independent watchdog organisation dedicated to the expansion of freedom around the world. A 2014 democracy index from The Economist says Indonesia is the only Muslim-majority nation that is acknowledged as a democracy.

Geert Hofstede, former professor of organisational anthropology and international management at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, describes most Indonesians as moderate Muslims.

This is partly due to an increased exposure to cultural diversity from media and locallybased foreigners, according to Hofstede.

It’s common in Indonesia to see Muslim women walking around shopping malls wearing trendy clothes. Today, it’s not

unusual for Muslim women who wear the hijab to also incorporate a degree of modern fashion. This often includes colourful fabrics and beads, or perhaps sparkling crystals.

Netty Herlita, owner of a Muslim-wear clothing store in Tanah Abang, agrees that most Muslims in Jakarta are moving toward a more moderate level of Islamic practice when it comes to commerce. “Demand for more fashionable and colourful veils is increasing day by day, not only from young women, but also a sizeable demand originates from middle-aged woman,” explains Herlita.

What are the marketing implications that investors should consider for a large and fairly moderate Muslim society?

Although Indonesia’s Muslim culture can be seen as moderate, the nation still retains most of Islam’s basic principles that every

Phalinn Ooi (CC)

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marketer needs to be aware of. If you’re in the restaurant business, for example, it would be foolhardy to not apply for a halal certificate from Majelis Ulama Indonesia (the Indonesian Islamic Cleric Council).

While the archipelago has many moderate Muslims, eating at restaurants that serve pork is still considered a big “no-no” for some. Additionally, a restaurateur with an otherwise family-friendly establishment is far less likely to attract the large crowd during the Saturday night dinner rush if there are bottles of Johnnie Walker or Grey Goose in the front window, as it sends a subtle message about the kinds of people that will also be in the same restaurant.

But this doesn’t mean that marketers can’t benefit from being creative. For example, while using sexually suggestive images of women is frowned upon in many contexts, Indonesia is culturally comfortable with casual exposure. Women’s bodies are often featured in ads and graphics for bathroom products like soap and shampoo, as well as on banners in the front of fashion retailers. It’s no secret that more skin is being shown in Indonesia’s advertisements these days. However, the smart foreign marketer will recognise the nation’s religious values, and therefore try to portray these images tastefully. After all, Jakarta is not Las Vegas.

Incoming foreign investors and entrepreneurs in Indonesia need to also be aware of when to ramp up marketing efforts. There are two major times to keep in mind. Eid al-Fitr starts on July 17 this year, following Ramadan which includes a month of daytime fasting. Eid al-Adha begins on September 24, following the annual pilgrimage. Both these holidays are festive celebrations comparable to Christmas in western countries. Families convene, and despite the traditional call from Islamic Teachings to refrain oneself from extravagance, in Indonesia we can expect a serious increase in consumption levels. The Indonesian Association of Retail Business releases annual data that indicates consumption during these two holidays increases by 20 to 30 percent year-on-year like clockwork. Rizki Rahmadianti, owner of an online Muslim fashion shop called Rizhani, says that her revenue can double —and even triple—during Eid al-Fitr.

Marketers must also take note of state regulations. Indonesia’s advertising code of conduct (Etika Pariwara Indonesia) incorporates many rules derived from Islamic teaching. For the most part, the majority of goods are not forbidden to be marketed, but in some cases, advertising is limited. It’s not uncommon to see a television ad that shows people skydiving or mountain biking, but then in the end it turns out to be a cigarette commercial. This is because brands aren’t allowed to show people lighting up and enjoying a smoke in their ads, despite tobacco production and consumption being a major economic support pillar of the nation. Tobacco companies must come up with other clever ways to portray the appeal of being a smoker. Promotional messages related to alcohol and nightclubs also face criticism from the local Muslim community, which has resulted in heavy regulation.

Aryo Moedanton is an Indonesian entrepreneur, professional communications trainer, and Managing Director of communication and consulting firm PT Oratoria Tahana Paramasastra. His interests range from social politics and affairs to military and international issues.

Prayitno Photography (CC)

“Marketers would do well to tailor their campaigns according to the level of religious conservatism in different cities.”

Geographic diversity is another element to be aware of. Muslims in big cities like Jakarta enjoy considerable freedom and are more exposed to different views and cultures. This makes them the most moderate Muslims in Indonesia. However, if we go to remote areas, we will experience a much more conservative society.

Marketers would do well to tailor their campaigns according to the level of religious conservatism in different cities. For example, promotional materials for lingerie would look different for a store in Bali than they might for a store in Semarang in Java.

Before setting up shop in Tanah Abang, Netty Herlita was based in Bukittinggi, West Sumatra. A small city with a population of 92,000, it is a bona fide one-horse town compared to Jakarta’s 13 million population. Comparing her experiences between the two cities, Herlita says the gap in religious conservatism is easily observable.

“In Bukittinggi, people will be looking at you all the time if you dress like that,” explains Herlita as she points to one of her customers wearing a short skirt. “However, in Jakarta I don’t see any rejection.”

One last item to keep in mind is the use of sales promotion girls in revealing clothing

Muslimwear by Aramara (Courtesy of Indonesia Fashion Week)

– a common practice in cities like Jakarta and Surabaya. However, this will likely be frowned upon if executed in other areas. In general, the rule of thumb to keep in mind for religious conservatism in Indonesia is inversely proportional to the size of the city you’re targeting. The smaller the population, and the farther you are away from a big city, the more you can expect to see religiously conservative consumers. Marketing to Indonesia’s Muslim-majority population will almost certainly require foreign investors and entrepreneurs to familiarize themselves with this concept.

Prayudi Hartono (CC)

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EXPAT BUSINESS BUSINESS PROFILE

Bruno, could you please give us a short history of the company?

Club Med’s adventure started in 1950 in Baleares, Spain. After a few resorts in some beautiful destinations like Greece and Tahiti, Club Med opened its first ski resort in 1956 in Switzerland. In 1967, Club Med invented the Mini Club Med concept, where kids can try many sports, experience theatre or dancing on stage, mix with other kids from all over the world, whilst parents partake in sports or simply relax. In 1970, Club Med was elected the largest sport academy in the world.

In 2004, Club Med began its move upmarket, repositioning the brand globally, in response to customer demand for increased comfort and elegance, more services and personalization. Club Med invested over 1 billion Euros from 2004 to 2013 to upgrade the rooms and resort facilities.

As of today, Club Med has around 80 resorts worldwide, including 25 ski resorts.

What attracted you to join Club Med and what brought you to running Club Med in Indonesia?

I will say passion for travelling and for people, followed by happiness in what I do.

I have been working with Club Med since 1992. I come from an IT background and the interest I had in IT projects that I led within the Club Med organization (such as the creation of the Property Management System that is installed in all our resorts, creation of electronic payment for the resort), the travelling that my job required, the Club Med staff I got the chance to work with, and the impressive culture of enterprise, drove me from success to success until I became Regional Head of IT Asia Pacific, based in Singapore in 2001.

From there, I created the Revenue Management and Price department in 2006, and ran this service for Asia Pacific until 2013. This activity brought me closer to business with the management of our pricing strategy, leading promotion and the group/corporate business.

Club Med took the decision to open a Club Med sales office in Jakarta in 2014, looking at the result of a marketing survey on Indonesian premium travellers and travelling industry in 2013.

Club Med Indonesia owns two resort properties: Club Med Bintan and Club Med Nusa Dua, Bali. Can you give us a brief description of these two resorts and what they offer to your guests?

In Indonesia, and all over the world, Club Med package prices always include room accommodation; three sumptuous international buffets—morning, noon and night—wine and beer with lunch and dinner; whole-day free-flow at the bar and snacking; and a whole host of sports tuition and activities, children’s clubs and evening entertainment.

Our Bali village opened in 1986 and is built on a beautiful property of 20 hectares with 393 rooms. A large array of sports is available for our guests (golf, flying trapeze, windsurf, archery, yoga, snorkelling,

Med Adventures in the East Bruno Courbet, Country Manager of Club Med Indonesia

By Angela Richardson

aqua fitness, beach volley, squash, tennis, volleyball, basketball, kayak, Boyce ball, badminton, fitness and soccer). Our guests get the chance to discover harmony between Balinese culture and modernity, and the resort is the perfect destination for everyone. Bali was awarded the “Best Traveller Choice” in 2012 by Trip Advisor and “2nd Best Overseas Resort for Family and kids” by Holidays with Kids in 2009.

Our Bintan village opened in 1997 and has 310 rooms. The resort was built on a 20-hectare property with a 250-metre secluded beach. Sports include windsurfing, snorkelling, flying trapeze, fitness, aqua fitness, sailing, archery, kayak, beach volley, water polo, basketball, badminton, table tennis, volleyball, Boyce ball, tennis, squash and soccer. Bintan was awarded the “Best Golf Course in Indonesia” by Asian Golf monthly magazine in 2010, and “2nd Best old course in Asian Pacific” in 2009.

Do you have plans to expand in the country?

Indeed, we have plan for future resorts in Indonesia. We are currently looking at Lombok, and some other locations like Manado.

At Club Med, staff are called ‘GOs’ or Gentils Organisateurs (Friendly Organizers), Clients are ‘GMs’, or Gentils Membres (Friendly Members) and each resort is known as a ‘village’.

Do you think this is what makes you unique and why families enjoy the Club Med experience?

Indeed, it is unique. GOs and GMs can share the same table for their meal, if they wish. Every night, the GO team is on stage to perform a show for our guests. It can be a circus show, cabaret, dancing, live song, or funny sketch. Once a week, the children of our guests perform on stage in front of their parents. After the show, GOs and GMs are either enjoying the free-flow at the bar or dancing all together.

In 2008, Club Med launched a new advertising campaign “Where Happiness Means the World” and over 25 million Euros was invested in this campaign over 24 countries. Can you tell us more about this slogan and how the group ensure it is realized?

Club Med business model is “Selling Happiness”, and our goal is to make our guests happy. Club Med has been on a quest for happiness since 1950. Club Med was born just a few years after the Second World War, and it was a time when people wanted and needed to escape and be happy, so Club Med capitalised on the joy of togetherness.

BUSINESS SNIPPET

Update on the Indonesian Language Proficiency Test for Foreign Employees in Indonesia

By Stephen DeMeulenaere

Recent announcements by the Minister of Manpower regarding the requirement of foreign employees to pass an Indonesian Language Proficiency Test (UKBI) in order to renew or apply for a new work permit has raised many questions among the expatriate community.

Having met with the Indonesian Language Department of the Ministry of Education and Culture, and as an Indonesian Language training provider, we've been following this closely and have an update on what we know so far.

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There has been talk over previous years about this requirement, and in fact Indonesian Language Proficiency Testing has been required for foreigners working in the banking sector for the past few years.

The Ministry of Manpower wants to extend this to all foreign employees.

An article that appeared in the Jakarta Globe in January stated that the Ministry of Manpower was working with the University of Indonesia to develop a test of Indonesian as a foreign language - like the Test of

English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) that many Indonesian employees are motivated or required to take.

Indonesia untuk Penutur Asing). This Department is fully responsible for all matters related to Bahasa Indonesia.

However, the information was not accurate as the Ministry of Manpower had not yet coordinated sufficiently with the Ministry of Education & Culture which has a Language Department specifically focused on Indonesian Language (Badan Bahasa), and within that Department a unit specifically focused on Indonesian Language for Foreign Learners (Bahasa

Now that the two ministries are coordinating this process together, we can be surer that the testing process will be the same as it has been in past years.

This means that the test will be conducted solely through the Ministry of Education & Culture, and not through universities, the Ministry of Manpower or private institutions. The test will be taken at Balai

Club Med package prices always include room accommodation; three sumptuous international buffets—morning, noon and night—wine and beer with lunch and dinner; whole-day freeflow at the bar and snacking; and a whole host of sports tuition and activities, children’s clubs and evening entertainment.

What are the demographics of Club Med Indonesia’s clientele?

Most of our Club Med Indonesian clients are families travelling with kids, or couples.

80 percent of our Indonesian clients are below 54 years and the average age of the Indonesian adult clients is 38.

I used to associate Club Med with young people and singles holidays – does this ring true in some of the resorts in the world and not others, perhaps?

It was the case at the origin of Club Med. I would say Club Med was for young people and singles holidays from 1950 to 1980.

However, our all-inclusive holiday is well adapted for anyone, whether singles or groups of friends.

How many visitors did you have to your resorts in Indonesia in 2014? What are your projections for this year?

In 2014, we received more than 44,000 GMs in Bali, and more than 38,000 GMs in Bintan. Our clients come from all over the world, but our five biggest contributor countries are Australia, China, Korea, Singapore, and Japan. We have good expectations for Indonesian guests in the future.

How much, on average, will a family of four spend on a weekend at Club Med in Indonesia?

On average (mixing peak and off-peak period, mixing all the resorts), it is around 170 USD per person. Kids below four are free and kids from four to 11 pay 60% of the price.

currently selling Bali at 122 USD per person, and Phuket at 119 USD per person.

When you know that this price includes the room, the breakfast, lunch, dinner, free flow at the bar, all sport activities, kids club – it is quite a good deal!

What are your company’s visions?

More upscale, more comfort and elegance, more all-inclusive, more services and personalization, more happiness is our strategy for the Club Med of tomorrow.

More green is also an important factor for the future. We just opened a new resort in the Maldives in January, which is very representative of our vision. 52 overwater villas and beach villas with private pools, 151 to 168 sqm2, 100% eco-nature and friendly, solar panels covering 100% of energy needs and with private butler. Club Med will stay friendly and multicultural.

With your insight into the travel industry, what do you foresee happening in this industry in Indonesia? Are there any lesser-visited areas today that will take over in the future?

Indonesia is an extremely beautiful country, with amazing and stunning locations, a rich culture, and the kindness of the people is impressive. The travel industry will definitely bloom in the next coming years.

The number of Indonesian travellers is increasing, so is the number of foreigners visiting the country. The country has so many unexplored treasures that the future of travel industry is surely promising.

In Club Med, the earlier you book, the better price you get. Off-peak, I am

Thank you, Mr. Courbet. To get in touch, please e-mail: bruno.courbet@clubmed.com

Bahasa offices in the capital or major city of each province, for which facilities are already prepared.

slang or dialects, and it will take approximately two hours.

The test will be exactly the same as the one given to native speakers, but with a lower score required to pass. There will be a listening comprehension, speaking comprehension, reading comprehension and a grammar/writing component.

The exam is designed to test formal and correctly-spoken common language comprehension, not informal language,

Having put together a test preparation course and sample exams, and taken many students from their first words in Bahasa Indonesia through to fluency, we would estimate that it would take up to 80 hours of class time with a properly-trained teacher to be able to pass the test if one is starting from zero or with minimal ability in the language.

Stephen DeMeulenaere is School Advisor to Cinta Bahasa Indonesian Language School, www.cintabahasa.co. He can be contacted at stephen@cintabahasa.com issue 138 indonesia expat

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EXPAT LIFESTYLE

FOOD & DRINK

The Clandestine Critic

low-salt grill

Our expert epicure continues an undercover operation to bring you the truth about Jakarta’s dining scene.

No spoon is left unturned in the quest for honest, balanced reviews, from long-established favourites to the hottest new tables in town.

This month, Jakarta’s first celebritychef establishment, Salt Grill.

Ever been told too much salt is bad for you? Serial dieters will, from their high horses, have you believe it is the very devil. Eternal damnation is in store for those who dare use it – God forbid your repast should have any flavour; flavour makes you fat, you know. Truly I pity those who don’t understand the real enemy is processed goods, fast food, ready meals, and anything resembling plastic more than animal, vegetable or mineral. Disappointingly, dinner at the dubiously-titled Salt Grill suggested the chef here is a paid-up member of the bland brigade.

Salt Grill opened in April 2013 to much fanfare. Luke Mangan, doyenne of Mod Oz cooking (that’s modern Australian to you and me) has eleven salty establishments from Sydney to Tokyo to Bali, and is to date the sole, bona fide celebrity expat chef to venture into Indonesia’s capital. Perched on the 46th floor at Altitude the Plaza, the restaurant also boasts that coveted customer-magnet: a view. This one’s a doozy for macet masochists. The Jakaterati flock here for the flattering lighting and the chance to be seen whilst seeing Bundaran HI crawl to a standstill.

We had a good table, so celebrated with a glass of Nicolas Feuillatte champagne – a fairly ordinary bubbly, but not unreasonable at Rp.190,000 per glass. Regardless of price, a place like this should pour at the table, not bring out full glasses. How do customers know they’re getting the vintage they’ve paid for when it is unceremoniously plonked down as if from the air hostess’ trolley?

Our other wine choices—an underwhelming Bourgogne Chardonnay, a decent Barossa Valley Shiraz, and a passable pinot noir from New Zealand—ranged from Rp.140,000 to 210,000 per glass. All were simply OK; nothing special. The cellar apparently has over 1,200 bottles, with Australian naturally a strength. Still, I continue my challenge to restaurateurs to improve their by-the-glass game.

When reserving almost two weeks in advance, we informed the restaurant one diner was gluten-intolerant.

Was there any gluten-free bread to go with Luke’s coldpressed olive oil? No. Did the waiters have a clue what ‘gluten-free’ was, in order to advise on menu choices? No. It’s a specialised request but small details matter at this level, and some of Salt Grill’s competitors manage here without notice.

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The menu includes tapas and ‘sharing’ dishes, in keeping with Mod Oz’s relaxed, barbie-in-the-backyard style. So, first, some tapas: whipped feta cheese ‘cigar’ with beetroot relish and prune puree. The puree was good, and it’s always nice to do something interesting with feta, but the pastry casing was chewy and pale rather than crisp.

The lobster bisque starter was easily the standout dish of the evening in terms of flavour. Its whiff of truffle was not unwelcome and the prawn tortellini were a nice touch, though somehow the shimeji mushrooms felt out of place. Unfortunately though, the large bowl it came in was cold, so the soup lost its heat quickly. My companion was unimpressed with the ‘signature’ starter, Sydney crab omelette with enoki mushroom, herb salad and miso mustard broth. The omelette and crab were painstakingly delicate in flavour, to the point of blandness. Chilli and Vietnamese-minty salad saved the dish—just—from abject mediocrity.

Mains arrived seconds after the removal of the first course, before our cutlery had been replaced and the table properly cleared. Service so far was disjointed and somewhat insincere, and when asked whether there was a second sitting on our table, the waiter went to check and never returned with a reply.

burned. They make a fuss of offering you a selection of Luke’s mustards. The tarragon one was unpleasantly vinegary and the Dijon wasn’t Dijon, but honeyed.

We were rushed to order dessert. It’s hard to botch a chocolate assiette and this one was fine (though the ‘bar’ was a bit chewy). Embracing the restaurant’s roots we also chose a fusion option: coconut and kaffir-lime panna cotta.

It was not set and swiftly disintegrated into a sad dribble.

The strips of lime leaf were also a little too intense for the other ingredients.

It’s not just the dining room that is elevated here, but the prices too – this is one of the most expensive restaurants in Jakarta. At this level, it’s just not good enough. I expect Mr. Mangan rarely cooks here but I hope he keeps an eye on things because the kitchen and staff are underperforming.

Interestingly, Salt Grill has some of the most consistently positive word-of-mouth I’ve heard. I think part of the problem is that diners can also be guilty of confusing atmosphere and all-round hipness with quality. So, please.

Learn the difference, and take your money elsewhere for the time being, where you will not feel quite so ripped off.

CHEQUE PLEASE! It’s not just the dining room that is elevated here, but the prices too – this is one of the most expensive restaurants in Jakarta.

This is a grill, so we chose Scotch (rib-eye to northernhemisphere folk) and lamb cutlets. The steak was so completely devoid of flavour, it was a black hole for taste buds. How is it possible to grill an Australian steak and have it taste neither meaty nor smoky? The béarnaise sauce was OK (though cold), and the green beans were fine, but a little lazy. You are obliged to order sides and pleasingly the parmesan-truffle fries were well-seasoned and not overpowering. A pear, sweet walnut, blue cheese and rocket salad was a good idea but messily executed with the salad undressed.

Lamb cutlets were better: soft, herby and more charcoalgrilled in flavour. But the red wine sauce was—and I’m sorry here—almost nasty; so bitter it must have been

Food Drinks Service Total

Rp.2,755,250 Rp.905,000 10% Rp.3,660,250 (inc. taxes) for two

All up in their grill Salt Grill by Luke Mangan Jl M.H. Thamrin No.28 - 30, The Plaza lt. 46, Jakarta Pusat, Jakarta 10350 +62 (0) 21 2992 2448 saltgrillindonesia.com

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

For more details, please contact or visit us:

What is Western Union?

Western Union is a global leader in money-transferring services at home and abroad. A trusted name for sending and receiving money for individuals and corporate clients, Western Union provides money-transferring services in more than 500,000 agent locations in more over 200 countries and territories worldwide.

Why use Western Union?

Western Union provides a solution for those who do not have bank accounts who require money-sending services, so they are able to share with their families back home.

Send and receive money in 4 easy steps Sending Visit your nearest WESTERN UNION agent.

Fill in the ‘send money’ form.

Your WESTERN UNION will process your order.

Your sender will inform your designated receiver.

Receiving The receiver visits their nearest WESTERN UNION agent.

The receiver fills in a ‘receive money’ form.

The receiver shows their ID. Money will be received within minutes.

What are the advantages of using Western Union?

Fast – only takes a few minutes to send money worldwide using our online system Easy – just come to an agent location bearing the Western Union logo. All you need is a valid ID (KTP/Passport) and there is no need for a bank account Reliable – we are a global company with 160 years’ experience

Western Union has special rates for sending money to 9 different countries—Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, China, India, Australia, UK and USA. For other countries the international standard transfer rate starts from Rp. 112.500 for sending amount of Rp. 750.000. The fee is charged during sending and the recipient will receive money the same amount as transferred.

Where is Western Union in Indonesia?

Western Union in Indonesia works together with 21 of the largest agents in the country, with a reach of over 20,000 locations.

Tips to avoid becoming a victim of consumer fraud Beware if you plan to use money transferring services for the following reasons: • Purchases via the Internet or online auctions • Taxes or other fees to claim lottery prizes or sweepstakes • Advance payments or charges for loans • Investment opportunity of a lifetime • Return of pets or lost valuables • Electronic goods or other expensive appliances

How much does it cost to send money inside Indonesia?

Domestic transfers with Western Union start from Rp.15,000 for deliveries of up to Rp.950,000. For higher sums, fees multiply.

How affordable is Western Union?

Shipping costs are relatively affordable and recipients are not charged.

Ask yourself: • Who is this person?

• Does this money need to be sent?

• Can this offer be trusted?

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EXPAT LIFESTYLE

TRAVEL Grace is a freelance writer, former TV journalist, and aspiring documentarist with a passion for Indonesian history and culture. Now in her 6th year in Jakarta, Grace has lived in various countries and looks forward to exploring more places. Contact her at g.c.susetyo@gmail.com

Ratatotok SULAWESI

Ratatotok

◊ Fast Facts Country Indonesia Province North Sulawesi Largest city Manado Land Area Minahasa Tenggara regency – 710.83 km2 Sulawesi Utara – 13,851.64 km2 Population 101,443 – 2010 estimate of Minahasa Tenggara 2,270,596 – 2010 estimate of Sulawesi Utara How to get there Flights from most major cities to Manado, then four-hour drive to Ratatotok

DI V IN G A F T ER T H E M IN E S

A Day in Ratatotok

What to bring Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, swimwear, snorkel gear, dry bag, camera, food (if visiting on a weekday), cash for contributing to ecotourism causes and meals in host families.

By Grace Susetyo

The soft scent of cloves toasting underneath the sun wafted in the air as my ojek cruised over the lush green hills of Minahasa Tenggara. The road outlooks a trapezoid hill plunging into a mangrove-laced cove, glittering with shades of blue and green. From afar, I could see speckles of light and dark colours in the water, suggesting the presence of lively reefs underneath.

These were my first sights of Ratatotok. The first stories I heard of this coastal settlement associated it with the Buyat Tragedy, a highly publicised 2004-2007 case alleging a multinational gold mine’s involvement in polluting Buyat Bay to the point of a baby girl’s death.

That said, friends from North Sulawesi have been raving of Ratatotok’s beaches and dive scenes. “Better than Bunaken,” several have told me.

Today, years after the mine closed down, its legacy is still ubiquitous in Ratatotok-Buyat, as are lingering sentiments among locals.

58-year-old seasoned fisherman Rusdin does not normally take tourists, but took us to some mangroves growing on elevated reefs. He switched off the motor as we floated over clear shallow waters brimming with underwater life.

I snorkelled into a realm of purple table corals, round pink brain corals, yellow staghorn corals and schools of small colourful fishes. It looked all-natural and pristine to me, more so than the ones I snorkelled in the Togians. But I sensed that what I saw was not the whole story.

“Looks like your coral reefs are recovering well after the mine stopped operating,” I remarked. “Are any of these the artificial reefs planted by the company for post-mining rehabilitation?”

“We’re at the wrong beach,” replied Rusdin. “These reefs are natural. Still, the pollution persists because even after the big mine shut down, there are still many local artisan miners. But then they’ve been around longer than the big 14

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mine. And there are many damaged reefs in Buyat whose recovery I’ve yet to see.”

Before the multinational company started operations, Rusdin could expect to catch Rp.300,000 worth of fish on a bad night.

Today, he considers it a good night if he can make Rp.200,000.

He says local fishermen and artisan miners are on good terms despite their opposite interests. “They’re simple locals trying to make a living, just like us,” said Rusdin. But different standards apply when it comes to the company, even if it adheres to more stringent environmental regulations.

According to Syafrudin Wangko, chairman of the Coordinating Body of Mining-Impacted Communities (BKMKT), part of the resentment towards the company stems from the fact that government regulations tend to favour big businesses rather than humble locals, and that these businesses tend to contribute to the government rather than the communities themselves.

Wangko says that the damage in Buyat Bay has been extensive and caused public health hazards. Hence tourism promotions have been focused in Ratatotok where the aesthetic impacts of the pollution are barely visible.

“We don’t know what happened to the artificial coral reefs.

They would likely be buried under thick mud by now, and the ongoing pollution generated by current artisan miners would make it difficult for natural coral to recuperate,” says Wangko. In Ratatotok, the company could conveniently present pictures of vibrant coral reefs and take credit for post-mining environmental remediation before stakeholders who know next-to-nothing about marine ecosystems.

The group’s activities include organising shops in Lakban beach, setting up environmental awareness billboards in the islands, making coral-friendly floating anchors for fishermen, and arranging tours for visitors.

That said, Wangko gives credit to the company for socioeconomic development in Ratatotok throughout its operations and beyond. The company’s US$30 million community development funds have provided much appreciated schools, houses of worship, infrastructure, a well-equipped hospital, and aid for local fishermen and small businesses.

Wangko also says that a greater current priority is educating artisan miners to practice safer and more responsible mining, or empowering illegal ones to migrate to other professions altogether. “Being a humble local trying to make a living does not excuse one from damaging the environment at the expense of everybody else and the next generation.”

Wangko does not buy into the idea that tourism is a reliable and sustainable alternative livelihood. Tourism is seasonal by nature and requires capital, skills, and experience that Ratatotok locals currently do not have.

Muhammad “Pudin” Saifuddin, founder of the Ratatotokbased Ecotourism Volunteer Group disagrees. Since 2012 it has been his mission to raise awareness of environmental and conservation issues in Ratatotok-Buyat and identify economic opportunities for locals through the tourism industry. The group was established out of concern for the disunity among pro-mining and anti-mining residents of Ratatotok, and as an attempt to engage the grassroots community in sustainable solutions.

“I cannot say whether the environment is damaged. I’m not a scientist. But we identify ecotourism opportunities to empower locals despite the limitations,” said Pudin. That says, he acknowledges the Minamata Institute’s findings of high mercury levels in the estuary of Totok River due to the presence of artisan miners stemming back from before the big mine. He adds that during the mine’s days, tourism in Ratatotok-Buyat actually developed better because it funded small businesses in Lakban beach and the cleanup of nearby islands.

“As far as fishermen are concerned, when the fish population is depleted, the sea is polluted. But fishermen often forget that they sometimes contribute to the problem. They catch fish in coral reefs and damage them with their anchors. And in the past, neighbouring villages have bombed for fish,” explained Pudin, adding that Ratatotok has been bomb and potassiumfree for a dozen years now.

The group’s activities include organising shops in Lakban beach, setting up environmental awareness billboards in the islands, making coral-friendly floating anchors for fishermen, and arranging tours for visitors. To attract international support and educate local fishermen and tourism microenterprises, the group invites travel bloggers and tourists to document the marine and terrestrial beauty of RatatotokBuyat and their satellite islands.

Ratatotok-Buyat has identified 24 dive sites. A commercial dive operator from Lembeh organised dive tours there, but stopped due to difficult logistics and the absence of resorts.

A typical itinerary includes snorkelling, a bentor (pedicab) tour to the tuna smokehouse, trekking in the mangroves, sightseeing from a hilltop and unwinding the day in a cafe at Lakban. Pudin offers a room for visitors in his humble family home and would guide for free, but asks each visitor to plant a mangrove tree in return.

Pudin can be contacted on +62 (0) 812 4458 2923 and is on Facebook as “Cak Pudin.”

EXPAT LIFESTYLE

MUSIC

Jazz

ALL THAT

“If you have to ask what jazz is, you'll never know.”

— Louis Armstrong

By Annali Hayward

Chaka Khan at the 2015 Java Jazz Festival

En route to the eleventh annual Java Jazz Festival, the macet was particularly cruel. Stuck on a fumeriddled planet ruled by strange machines called Kijang and Avanza, we could only whimper quietly, clutching our tickets to probably the most exciting musical event in Indonesia, wondering if we’ll actually miss the whole thing at this rate. Eventually, we walked the last mile to the Jakarta International Expo. Access and parking at the festival seems to worsen each year, and organisers desperately need to do something about it.

Nonetheless, Java Jazz purportedly attracts upwards of 120,000 visitors, 100 artists and 1,000 musicians from home and abroad annually. 2015’s headliners were about as far from jazz as you can get (certainly farther than previous years), in the shape of Jessie J, a big-lunged Londoner, and Christina Perri, a nondescript American singer-songwriter – both of whom are best described by that convenient catch-all, ‘pop’. Clearly this year, organisers were trying to appeal to a wider, younger audience.

Avoiding these, I made a beeline for the number-one act on my list, a soul sensation relatively new to the jazz scene: Jarrod Lawson.

Lawson was a few minutes into his set, but we hadn’t missed the best tracks and nabbed a spot right in front.

Immediately it was clear the monitors were giving him trouble; and when I spoke to Lawson after the show it transpired he couldn’t hear his piano the entire time – but that didn’t stop him putting on a consummate performance.

Lawson’s brand of soulful jazz is at once ‘now’ and timeless.

His wide-ranging influences are easily identifiable, but through funked-up beats and spiritual lyrics, he makes it his own. His vocals have the nuance, depth and curve of (one of) his hero’s, Stevie Wonder, and live, this was spinetingling to witness. My favourites were a sneak preview of a track called ‘Soul Symphony’ from his upcoming new album, and the lead track from 2014’s debut, Jarrod Lawson, ‘Music and Its Magical Way’.

I asked Lawson about his experience of the festival and Indonesia in general. The answer was full of the same thoughtful, humanitarian goodwill as his lyrics: “It’s hard for me to separate being in this bubble [the festival] with the poverty you see outside on the streets.” Talking about the crowd, he seemed unfazed by the habit (which really

Incognito in full swing

bothers me) of audiences here to sit down, even right on the floor, when there’s an electrifying live performance going on. Instead he was pleased with the turnout and expressed gratitude at being a part of Java Jazz. I’ll bet he’s back with an even bigger following in future.

Other international acts included Chris Botti, a smooth jazz saxophonist; Bobbi McFerrin, a veteran of the festival; and irrepressible Brooklyn collective, Snarky Puppy. Local talents outnumbered foreign and highlights such as the renowned Naturally 7, and Idang Rasjidi (who scats in Indonesian, to a George Benson vibe) lit the stage up for many. Festivalgoer Dewi Hermanto told me “we come every year, it’s a source of national pride.”

Onwards to Saturday’s headliner, Chaka Khan featuring Incognito. The festival’s mad crushes masquerading as queues are another issue organisers need to address.

Teenage ‘security’ staff had zero control over the crowds, and a glass door was shaking from the accumulating pressure. Once inside it was still mayhem – surely caused by a very strange decision to have rows of seating rather than standing space. Not so for headliner Jamie Cullum last year in the same room, and although he suffered a few patches of kumbaya groups sitting on the floor, at least his fans could get close to the stage and create some atmosphere. In contrast, it was three-quarters of the way through this show before security lifted a barrier, allowing fans to get up and dance rather than sitting like bored schoolchildren on their phones, filming the performance instead of living it.

But – Chaka’s still got it. At 61, she looks stunning, hitting those high wails like it's 1984. Opening on a cracker, ‘I Feel For You’ was terrific and she kept the pace with ‘Ain’t Nobody’. ‘Tell Me Something Good’ gave Khan the chance to play with the crowd, getting guys and girls to sing the famous refrain to each other. It was then I noticed just how many people were singing along word-for-word, creating a feel-good, harmonious atmosphere of like-minded fans.

Khan took a break, allowing Incognito to treat us to some serious acid jazz. Bandleader Bluey regaled us with childhood stories of dreaming up his ultimate group: Stevie on keys, George Benson on rhythm guitar, himself (naturally) on lead, and the legendary Chaka Khan singing – a dream that had come true tonight, and a heartfelt message for aspiring musicians in the audience. The band was on fire – they ripped into a fan’s fantasy set-list: ‘Good

Jarrod Lawson

It was then I noticed just how many people were singing along word-for-word, creating a feelgood, harmonious atmosphere of like-minded fans.

Love’, ‘Everyday’, and the touching ‘Still a Friend of Mine.’

The star of the show was purple-haired singer Katie Leone, whose vocal prowess was phenomenal – a real force to be reckoned with.

Finally, Khan came back to generously give fans the big hits they craved, including ‘Through the Fire’ and ‘What Cha’ Gonna Do For Me’. Khan had a message for us before launching into her final song, ‘I’m Every Woman’: “This is not just a song for women. If you’re a dude and you wanna get down to this, you go ahead.” And many a dude did.

Bring on next year. If anyone has a spare helicopter I can use for transport though, let me know.

Annali Hayward is an expert eater, decisive drinker, fumbling fashionista and tasteful traveller, who writes to savour it all – preferably at once. E-mail her at annali.s.hayward@gmail.com

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EXPAT LIFESTYLE

FASHION

Monochrome - centre image Altuzurra SS 2015

Chloe SS 2015

Ralph Lauren SS 2015

DVF SS 2015

ONCE U PON A FA SHION T R END

The Spring-Summer 2015Rundown Victoria Bannerman urges you to get on the style trail this summer with her foolproof guide to the major trends from the Spring-Summer 2015 runways – and she will be out and about on the prowl, seeing how Indonesia’s sartorial sirens rock it!

Adidas Yeezy Boost by Kanye West

Look out for her upcoming monthly trend updates, with fabulous tips on how to mix-and-match your seasons and styles to suit life in the archipelago.

By Victoria Bannerman

Look out for shirt dresses this summer. They can be worn multiple ways with jeans, shorts, miniskirts, flares and skin-tight trousers. Team yours with a tie or embellish with brooches and badges, or get one with a thigh slit, drop waist or baggy shape and add a quirky belt. It can take you from the office to the bar.

Eyewear Cutler & Gross 2015

Add sunshine yellow to your wardrobe and brighten up the lives of those around you! There are different shades of yellow, from lemon to marigold – find the hue and undertone to complement your skin and be the sunflower of your funky medina.

Be the supreme checkmate and invest in gingham. Clash it and funk it up; wear yellow check with pink, green with red or get a pencil skirt suit made with black and white check – a timeless look!

is l y St Hero Kurt Keiger

Emilio Pucci SS 2015

Monochrome is banging on the fashion door again!

We all have something black and white in our wardrobes.

Change it up by adding a splash of colour, such as a red belt. Patent shoes always look great with monochrome.

Create a cacophony of chaos and don monochrome with gingham!

“Denim is back with a vengeance but is now sophisticated in many guises and textures, so we can do triple denim and still look cool.”

Culottes are in. Not flattering for all but hey. Wear with wedges or loafers, add a white shirt tied at the waist, cravat, blazer, cropped jacket, waistcoat or a long, chunky necklace. An elegant option would be to have a “tuxedo” culotte suit made with a fitted jacket accessorised with a chic bra, stilettos, a chunky bracelet and a behemoth clutch.

Be shady in the eye wear department and invest in quirky coloured glasses. Get red, green, blue or yellow then choose an impractical-looking shape of glass and go crazy with the frame. Rein it in for the office though!

Chunky heels are in. Think 70s style platforms and then some. They are flattering, won’t murder your feet and will make you six feet tall. I have invested in what I call my ‘troika of shoes’, all from Kurt Geiger – Halo, Hero and Heidi. They will take you right through the seasons and beyond.

70s style is going to be huge! Check out Emilio Pucci and Chloe Spring/Summer 2015 then get your own less expensive version. Think swirling floral, big Morticia sleeves, chiffon, bed hair, minimal make-up. Think Woodstock, Coachella, Glastonbury, Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell et al, long flowing Kaftan style dresses and gladiator sandals - Alberta Ferrati and Nicholas Kirkwood for Ederm are Roman cool.

Denim is back with a vengeance but is now sophisticated in many guises and textures, so we can do triple denim and still look cool. From Bottega Veneta to Ashish and Chloe, there is something for everyone. Update your old with the new, textured, lightweight denim or add some patchwork to give it that 60s/70s look. If denim on denim is too much for you, check out Free People’s vintage denim tote bag.

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d e t t o p &s

Get your crazy trainers in. These are not for running in, just posing. If you are cool enough, snap up a pair from Kanye West’s collaboration with Adidas—the Yeezy Boost —with its bouncy sole technology.

Be demure and invest in a lace dress. White is sweet and pretty, black is femme fatale, red is sexy siren and green is sensible, approachable and intriguing.

Get your sergeant-major thing on. Army neutrals and combat fatigues are back. They never really went away.

Revamp yours – add a yellow shirt to your combats, or be brave and wear a monochrome shirt, a black tie and some brown leather cuffs. I thought Kim Kardashian’s combat trousers, although not loved by the fashion cognoscenti, were cool in a GI-Jane way!

Tan your hide with leather in mint colours, or your faithful brown and black hues. Grab yourself a tassel bag. Free People have a great selection of funky bags to choose from, for example the Dreamweaver, Morgan bucket and Santorini crossbody. Fringing is also huge and I can’t get enough there is just something devilishly sexy about it that it renders the wearer irresistible. Proenza Schouler, Tom Ford and Giambattista Valli show us how to do sophisticated fringing.

So go on, get trending trendy!

Lombok Man is wearing: Scarf by Deux Jacket – bespoke Chain on jacket – antique Striped top by Benetton Jeans by Boy London “Cred” Trainers by Adidas Belt by Holliston Bracelets – own Watch by Swatch “The most important part of dressing for me is feeling good from the inside out, which begins with my underwear.

That is why I wear Bjorn Borg.”

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.

E-mail her at tori@ toribannermanlondon.com

EXPAT LIFESTYLE

MEET THE EXPAT

On the Rise: Meet Ramon Medina Ramon is owner and boulanger of Levant Bakery in Kemang, South Jakarta. Together with his business partner, Ramon opened up shop in December to serve fresh baked bread, pastries and viennoiserie.

By Annali Hayward

Ramon, where are you from and how did you end up in Jakarta?

I am from Lyon, France, and I came to Indonesia in 2007 for the opportunity to teach music at the French International School in Jakarta. I did that for seven years, until we opened the bakery in December 2014.

What inspired you to open a bakery in Jakarta?

Baking is my passion, it just makes me happy. I started out with a normal Kenwood home bread-making machine which I used with yeast I made myself. Then I tried making sourdough by hand and using my kitchen oven.

Eventually I bought one large and one small oven, and for the last two years whilst teaching, I was also making lots of bread at home for my friends and neighbours. There was high demand, so the idea came from there. I never set out to make money – I just wanted to bake. And twenty years teaching music was enough!

Do you have a background in the food and beverage industry? Where did you train?

I have a background in agriculture. I spent years running an organic vegetable farm near Bordeaux. Farming is very hard work; you don’t get much money or holidays! So I suppose that is my connection to food. But I am a selftaught baker – I went to Paris a year ago to spend time in a pâtisserie and perfect the art of the croissant, and I learned sourdough from two boulanger friends of mine.

Fresh bread

What exactly is sourdough?

It is one of the oldest types of bread. It is leavened with a sourdough ‘starter’ and—unlike what you may find for sale elsewhere in Jakarta—should not contain anything like today’s modern yeasts. The starter is a culture of natural yeast and lactobacillus that can be kept cultivating for many years – there are said to be starters in Egypt that are 1,000 years old! I brought mine over from a friend’s bakery in France about a year ago. Each one has a unique ‘personality’ and taste because it reacts with the air it is in. It is easier to digest and more nutritious than normal bread, due to the way it interacts with the body. It has a lower glycaemic index too, so you’re fuller for longer.

Assiette campagnarde

Why did you choose the Kemang neighbourhood?

I have a local business partner – an architect with an office nearby, who knows this area well. We searched for the right premises for six months. Originally I didn’t want a shop, I just wanted to sell to restaurants and hotels (which we do) – but here we are now!

You can keep it in the fridge for three to four weeks, and we can slice it for you for freezer storage. I chose to specialise in it because I grew up eating sourdough all my life – until I moved here and couldn’t find it!

There’s plenty of competition in the area; what do you make of it?

Yes, but I know that most of them do not make everything in-house, they buy in frozen croissants and bread. We are, to my knowledge, the only bakery in the South Jakarta area that makes all products ‘sur place’ – we are unique.

How’s business?

It’s not bad – we haven’t been open that long so we are still getting the word out. The goal was always to have prices that are not high. But the Government’s import taxes make this really hard. 90 percent of our ingredients are imported, like butter from Europe, cream from France, rye flour from Australia and Germany.

What time does your day start – you must be up early to bake?

Well, levant means ‘rising’ – as in, with the sunrise!

Bread dough needs time to ferment or ‘prove’, so in the morning it is a sequence of putting baguettes and croissants in our temperature - controlled room at specific settings to achieve this. I usually arrive here around 4.30am. In boulangeries in Paris they might start at two or three in the morning to be ready for the rush at 7am.

Tarte aux pommes

Who are your customers mainly?

Of course, friends from the French community and International School, as well as passers-by. It’s a large majority of expats and mostly through word-of-mouth.

Customers appreciate we are not exactly a restaurant – the food we offer is exclusively related to bakery products, like quiche, sandwiches, plateaux aux fromage or campagne (with new assisettes coming soon!).

Pastries pain au raisin

What do you make of modern TV shows like Great British Bake Off and Masterchef? Do you think they help to popularise your chosen form of art?

There are similar programmes in France. I think they’re funny but they are not reality. Taste is so subjective, even if you are a supposed ‘expert’ in an area, it is still personal to each judge. I watch them, but occasionally I find them annoying!

What’s your vision for the future for Levant Bakery?

For the short-term, just attract more customers. Long-term there is the potential for us to create a brand and sell our bread more widely. But for now, one shop is enough! If we did grow, I would be very careful not to compromise our quality in any way, which can be hard with expansions.

When are your busiest times?

We are open every day from 7am to 8pm, but we’re busiest on Saturday and Sunday mornings, when people come in to buy viennoiserie and pâtisserie for the weekend. We also do delivery in the Kemang, Pejatan and Cipete areas.

What are your most popular products?

Croissant and pain au chocolat are the most popular pastries. Quiche Lorraine is a big seller for lunch.

Customers love the mini apple, pear and chocolate tarts too. People here seem to eat less bread than in France, but baguettes sell. We hope to become famous for our authentic sourdough!

We are, to my knowledge, the only bakery in the South Jakarta area that makes all products ‘sur place’: we are unique.

Fougasse

Thank you Ramon. To get in touch, please e-mail levant.boulangerie@gmail.com

Annali Hayward is an expert eater, decisive drinker, fumbling fashionista and tasteful traveller, who writes to savour it all – preferably at once. E-mail her at annali.s.hayward@gmail.com

Levant Bakery Jl. Benda Raya No 12A, Kemang, Jakarta Selatan Phone: +62 (0) 21 7884 7454 Web: www.levant-kemang.com issue 138 indonesia expat

17

Kenneth Yeung is a Jakarta-based editor

BeritaSatu ran a report claiming that black dollars have serial numbers like those issued by a central bank - and they can be traded legally and generally and are used to fund drugs transactions

Website selling the chemicals for cleaning black money

Google's advertising service, AdWords, is accepting money from scammers to advertise the nonsense cleaning solutions for black dollars

No End to the Stupidit y

The Jakarta Post daily’s headline mentioning “black dollars worth $69,000” (whereas 69,000 one-hundred

The perennial black dollar scam is back in the news. This time, the apparent victim is a Navy officer who was busted for drugs. It’s bad enough that a member of the military could fall for such a well-known scam. What’s far worse is that some police and media outlets seem to think the money in question might be real.

dollar notes would be worth $6.9 million) was the least of its errors. The Post reported: “A careful inspection is necessary to find out if the banknote [sic] are original or counterfeit.” Not true. No careful inspection is required because the black rectangles of paper are not banknotes.

The black dollar swindle preys on greed and stupidity.

services in a way that is not accurate, realistic and truthful.”

A scammer carries a case full of utterly worthless black

Yet Google still allows black dollar cleaning scammers to

pieces of paper, cut to the size of American one-hundred

advertise.

They are not even passable counterfeit.

Here’s what the country’s leading online news portal, detikcom, had to say about the worthless bundles of paper:

dollar notes. Some are double-sided photocopies of American dollars on grey construction paper or blackened

The black dollar scam has been around in Indonesia for

“The police alone cannot say whether these black dollars

paper. The scammer will claim this is “money that was

over a decade. The perpetrators are usually Africans.

are genuine or counterfeit. Because actually black dollars

dyed black to avoid detection by customs at airports”.

Given the scam’s long history, surely the Indonesian

are just a tool of criminal scammers. However, the

media and police should be aware that black dollars

police still have not received information about how the

are fake? Sadly, the answer is no.

perpetrators did the printing, so there is a slight chance

Upon finding someone sufficiently gullible to believe this

the black dollars are real money.”

nonsense, the scammer will display one or two genuine $100 notes that were earlier coated in iodine tincture and

The latest case, announced by the police and

glue to make them black. He will explain that the “dollars”

the military on March 13, stemmed from a drug

The nation’s top policeman,

can be washed clean with an extremely expensive chemical,

bust. The Navy’s Western Fleet Intelligence

Badrodin Haiti, said forensic tests

usually called SSD Solution. A demonstration is performed

Detachment had in February received

would be conducted to check the

– dipping the genuine banknote into a solution of water and

information about drug abuse involving a naval

authenticity of the “money” – even

vitamin C, which washes off the iodine.

officer, Major Zaid Joko Utomo, who serves on

though serial numbers indicated it

amphibious ships. A team of investigators on

is bogus. “From the serial numbers

March 3 followed Zaid from a disco to his home

that are present, we suspect it is

Targets will be told that about Rp.600 million is required to buy enough SSD Solution to wash a case of black dollars amounting $1 million. The scammer promises to split the “dollars” evenly if the victim will provide funds for the purchase of the chemical. If Rp.600 million is too much, that’s no problem; the scammer will accept Rp.10 million.

Often, the victim will be left with a bag or box of black

“

The scammer will claim this is “money that was dyed black to avoid detection by customs at airports”.

Black money

”

fake. But we must check with the forensics lab,” he was quoted as saying by the Kompas daily. He said chemicals were needed to clean black dye off the “money” and that counterfeit investigators from Bank Indonesia would be consulted.

paper as a “guarantee”, while the scammer disappears

in the Navy housing complex in Sunter, North Jakarta.

The dumbest reporting came from BeritaSatu TV, which

with their money.

Dance music was heard coming from the house, which the

ran a news item—now on YouTube—asserting that black

Navy Military Police raided at 2.30am on March 4. Zaid

dollars are “different from counterfeit money” because “they

If victims put aside their greed for a moment and thought

was in a bedroom on the second floor and refused to unlock

have serial numbers like those issued by a central bank”

carefully about the transaction, they would realize it makes

his door until 7.30am. Officers seized syringes and pipes

and “can also be traded legally and generally”. The report

no sense. If the “dollars” were genuine, the scammer could

used for the consumption of crystal methamphetamine,

went on to claim that black dollars are usually used for drug

just use his existing supply of SSD Solution to wash enough

as well as an undisclosed amount of meth. They also found

transactions, while “white dollars” are used to fund acts of

to buy more of the chemical – rather than split half of the

three large boxes containing 69,000 pieces of black paper

war and terrorism. Absolute garbage. State news agency

money with a complete stranger.

stacked in bundles. Some of the paper vaguely resembled

Antara reported that black money is commonly used for

US$100 notes.

money laundering.

SDD Solution in the press and online. A Google search for

Zaid was arrested and later tested positive for

Other reports confidently declared that black dollars are

the words “black money Jakarta” brings up two sponsored

methamphetamine. He said the black dollars had come

counterfeit currency, smuggled in through airports, and

ads for sites purporting to sell SSD Solution and other

from a Balinese man, I Made Gede, who delivered them

will return to their original colour upon washing. The

nonsense such as “activation powder” and “separation

for a woman named Ketut Srianing. Police arrested Made

Pikiran Rakyat daily claimed that black dollars are still in

fluid”. The sites – ssdsolution.milton-laboratories.com

on March 6 in Jakarta, and Srianing in the Bali capital of

the production stage. BeritaSatu.com also reported that

and rueworldwidelaboratory.com – are laughably amateur.

Denpasar on March 11. Srianing reportedly confessed to

black dollars are “dollars that are not yet finished and still

The latter illegally uses the logos of companies such as

being the owner of the black dollars.

black. Once immersed in water, the black will disappear

Scammers try to give credence to this con by placing ads for

and the money will seem like a real dollar bill.”

ConocoPhillips, DuPont and Honeywell.

Nine days after the raid, the military presented the bundles Google’s advertising system, AdWords, allows advertisers

of black paper to the police for investigation. The handover

Someone in authority needs to educate the media to

to bid for certain keywords to have clickable ads appear in

was attended by no less than Military Commander General

educate the public about scams. Moeldoko claims the

search results. AdWords policies prohibit content including

Moeldoko and Acting National Police Chief Badrodin Haiti.

military will not tolerate drug use by its members.

“products or services that enable dishonest behaviour”

That’s when media reports revealed a staggering failure to

Zero tolerance for misinformation on scams would

and “promotions that represent… your products or your

understand the scam.

also be helpful.

18

indonesia expat issue 138

EXPAT OUTREACH PRISON TALES

INDONESIAN JAILS

BY THE NUMBERS

477

PRISONS IN INDONESIA

116,866 CAPACITY FOR PRISONERS

ACTUAL NUMBER OF PRISONERS AS OF MARCH 2015

9

166,739

JAILS FOR WOMEN

5.25%

By Kenneth Yeung

Most expatriates will never see the inside of an Indonesian jail. But should you ever have a friend fall afoul of the nation’s capricious legal system—or if you feel the urge to spread some sunshine among inmates—here’s a visitors’ guide to Indonesian prisons.

If you’re a do-gooder, desirous of bringing happiness to a foreign inmate, you cannot, in theory, just arrive at a jail and ask to visit a random prisoner. You should first know the name of the person you intend to visit.

Jails are under the administration of the Justice and Human Rights Ministry’s Directorate General for Corrections, which has an online list of prisons by province: http://ditjenpas.go.id/views/ upt. Overcrowding is a problem, with the prison population now 143% above capacity. Rich prisoners can buy a private cell and amenities. Those without funds suffer.

Many foreign inmates would appreciate visits and gifts to alleviate their tedium. Most foreigners are serving time for narcotics offenses. Many are from Africa, especially Nigeria, and also from Asia. In recent years, the number of Iranians incarcerated for drug smuggling has increased.

Drug use is widespread behind bars – several prisons have contained drug factories. Some inmates claim it is easier and cheaper to buy narcotics than a sterile needle. HIV levels in jails are rising.

VISITING DAYS & HOURS These vary from prison to prison, but generally you can visit between 9am and midday from Mondays to Thursdays, although not on public holidays.

1,046 INMATES. LEADERS OF ETHNIC GROUPS WILL ARE VIOLENT, SO PEACE GENERALLY PREVAILS.

Visitors should be “modestly dressed”.

WHAT TO BRING • Money. Keep it tightly folded in your pocket and covertly hand it over. Don’t flash it about, or the inmate may later have to ‘share’ it.

• Cigarettes are a useful currency. Bring about 10 packs, a mix of kretek (clove) and regular, even if the inmate doesn’t smoke. Bringing in cartons may result in guards and other inmates claiming some.

• One or two bags of food and drinks. If you bring in vast amounts of food, it may soon be pilfered, so keep it simple. Most Indonesian prisons have a "cooperative" shop where inmates can buy necessities, including food and drinks. Also, guards can be paid

ON ARRIVAL • Register at a small outside building or ante-room.

Depending on the prison’s technology, you may have to take a number from an electronic dispensing machine. These machines are often broken.

• Complete a visitor’s form. This requires your personal data, as well as the name, cell block and crime of the inmate you wish to visit, and a list of items you have brought.

• List how many people will be making this particular visit. This is so that guards can count “three people visited Prisoner X, three people left”. In 2012, a man serving a six-year sentence for terrorism at Jakarta

There is no fee for visits, but that doesn’t stop some guards from asking. Some visitors like to keep guards happy by giving them cigarettes and small sums of money. This is illegal, although some guards happily accept such ‘gifts’ and may even insist on them.

OFFICIAL NUMBER OF PRISONERS WITH HIV

PEOPLE ON DEATH ROW

LOSE PRIVILEGES IF PEOPLE IN THEIR GANGS

to bring in meals from outside – at an inflated price.

Guards may inspect home-cooked meals, whereas packaged food from shops is less likely to be opened.

That said, guards at a West Java prison last week caught a 44-year-old woman trying to smuggle in eight sachets of coffee filled with marijuana.

• Shoes and clothing. Cheap shoes, t-shirts and jeans may be appreciated and can always be traded. Don’t bring in multiple garments on a single visit. Some prisons insist that inmates’ clothing must be blue.

• Writing materials. Some prisoners will enjoy keeping a diary or journal.

• Books. Preferably positive and uplifting. Iranian prisoners will treasure books in Persian. Books have little currency value but will be passed around.

• Medicine, if requested by an inmate. Bring a receipt and prescription in case guards try to confiscate any pills. You may need permission from the prison doctor. Some inmates will want contact lenses or glasses. Female prisoners will appreciate feminine hygiene products.

3,543

131

DON’T FEEL THREATENED SITTING AMONG

FORBIDDEN ITEMS • Mosquito repellent can be ingested by suicidal inmates.

• Drugs and alcohol. Some visitors smuggle spirits inside plastic bottles, or pay an unofficial fee to bring in cans of beer.

• Anything made of glass or metal could be used as a weapon. So no glass bottles and no metal utensils or cans. Chopsticks may be confiscated.

• Mobile phones, SIM cards and chargers. Some inmates claim these are essential. They are also illegal.

• Cameras. Photos are not allowed. DVDs also not allowed, although guards are inconsistent in confiscating them.

• Fuel. No lighter fluid or gas bottles.

At Jakarta’s Cipinang jail, visiting hours are usually from 9am to midday, and then from 1.30pm to 3pm on Mondays to Fridays. The visitors’ registration office opens by 8.30am. Some prisons close early on Fridays but may be open on Saturdays.

OF INMATES ARE FEMALES (INCLUDING 90 GIRLS)

CHILDREN IN JAILS

32 60

FOREIGNERS ON DEATH ROW FOR DRUGS

PEOPLE ON DEATH ROW FOR DRUGS

50%

OF PRISONERS IN BALI ARE DOING TIME FOR DRUGS

Police’s detention centre received a visit from some women wearing burqas. He put on one of the burqas and walked out with his visitors.

• Once your number is called or displayed, present your form, along with a KITAS or passport, so the official can cross-check your details. Your data may be entered into a computer.

• Upon being given a stamped or newly printed form, proceed to a main entrance and wait in line. Most other visitors are wives or relatives bringing food.

• Eventually you will be called through to a guards’ room for inspection. The first time I visited one jail, a guard claimed that if I gave him $100, he would not inspect my two plastic bags.

• Hand over your ID in exchange for a numbered visitor’s tag. Also hand over your mobile phone in exchange for a numbered card.

• Your hand or wrist must be given an ink stamp, signifying your status as a visitor.

ONCE INSIDE • If you are not expected, a prisoner working as an assistant for the guards will summon the inmate you intend to visit.

• You can meet in the official visiting room, though it may be hot, noisy and crowded. Alternatively, many visits take place outside cells or even inside offices.

Using these locations will cost money.

• Don’t feel threatened sitting among inmates.

Leaders of ethnic groups will lose privileges if people in their gangs are violent, so peace generally prevails.

CONJUGAL VISITS? Conjugal visits are not covered under Indonesian law, although rich prisoners can pay for private visits from prostitutes and spouses.

The 1999 Law on Prisoners’ Rights allows prison heads to grant “home leave” of up to two days to selected prisoners. This privilege is not available to foreign inmates. Some wealthy inmates regularly leave jail, ostensibly for medical treatment.

issue 138 indonesia expat

19

EXPAT OUTREACH MEET THE EXPAT

Unilever Directors and Bali Governor's representative after official launch of EBPP Centre in March 2005

Fighting Remote Poverty in Bali

Meet David Booth David Booth is the Founder of East Bali Poverty Project (EBPP) – a non-profit organization which has changed the lives of thousands living in abject poverty in East Bali by providing education, community health, dental care, toilets, clean and safe water, bamboo reforestation, community economic development and much more.

By Karen Davis

What was your early life like in the UK and how did it influence your social consciousness?

I came from a poor background. My father had to take extra jobs to supplement his meagre bus driver’s wage to support a family of five. At seven years of age, I decided I couldn’t live that way, questioned the meaning of life and decided that I would study hard, be the first in our family to attend university and earn enough money to lift my parents out of poverty. By age 12, I knew I wanted to be a civil engineer and by 17 had set aspirations to be a successful project manager by 25! I was determined to make every day count, be the best and help others out of poverty.

What is your educational and professional background and how did it bring you to Indonesia?

After 16 years as a successful civil engineering project manager, mainly in developing countries, I needed new challenges for the rest of my life. I’d already decided that my future was not in the UK and I’d fallen in love with the people and cultures of Southeast Asia. I targeted my marketing consultancy expertise to Southeast Asian embassies and commercial departments, resulting in the Indonesian Embassy becoming my major client. I soon grew to love the warmth and openness of the many Indonesians I met at the embassy and decided to visit Indonesia. After one month in Indonesia in August 1988, I felt my ‘happiness index’ soaring and knew it was the country I wanted to settle in. Back in Jakarta I explored how I could get legitimate work and three English schools offered me a post if I got my teaching diploma. After getting my RSA and teaching for six months, my school of choice in Jakarta sent me my visa, ticket and contract, and my life in Indonesia started on 4th November 1989.

What finally brought you to Bali?

Escaping Jakarta traffic and deciding it was time to move to another part of Indonesia to figure out the rest of my life.

After a three-day drive through Java, I arrived in Bali in 1993, and set up home in Penestenan just outside of Ubud.

In February 1994, stopping in a small rural village, I recalled a promise I made to myself in 1973 in Nigeria after trying to help an impoverished and isolated mountain village on the Cameroon border near my new road project.

The local government district head told me it was the poorest village in Nigeria and they would “civilize them by moving them to a newly-built mud-block compound at the side of the main road”. It was wrong. They just needed help, as they had sustainable solutions happening in their tiny 40-family village. It was then I decided that when I find the country of my choice, I wanted to dedicate my 20

indonesia expat issue 138

David recieving MBE Medal from Prince Charles in Buckingham Palace April 2005

life to helping the poorest village towards sustainable development, prioritizing the health, nutrition and education of children.

Tell me about what you found when you discovered one of the poorest villages in Indonesia here in Bali.

After four years’ research, believing there could be nowhere more impoverished than the Nigerian village, I was stunned to eventually find the 19-hamlet mountain village of Ban on the Eastern slopes of Mounts Agung and Abang, where only four hamlets were accessible by road. The furthest eight were 6-8 hours walk from any facilities and none had access to health, water, sanitation or education facilities. Most of the 3,000 or so families survived like their ancestors: trekking to their remote farms, harvesting, cooking and bartering cassava and corn for rice, kerosene and cooking oil.

When was East Bali Poverty Project formed and how did you begin transforming the poorest village in Bali?

Our foundation was legally established in 1998. The village head and respective community leaders agreed to a foundation of mutual trust and balanced promises, which apply to this day. My promises: no promises but I’ll do my best; no handouts of money or rice; I’ll quit if I find any corruption, collusion or nepotism by any community in any projects we facilitate. The communities’ promises: 100% motivation and 100% participation in every project they aspire to and I will help them get there through knowledge and appropriate technology; and agree to give honest interviews about every aspect of their life.

After getting signatures from each of the community leaders with a summary of key problems, I met the Karangasem Bupati to request his support. To my amazement, he did not know Ban village, so I showed him on a map of Bali, which did not include Ban village!

He offered 100% support and advice in the procedures to establish our charity and was supportive thereafter.

Four local young men joined me to help their village develop – even though I could not pay them. They trekked hundreds of kilometres to interview 1,056 families, the analysis of which determined the most isolated and impoverished hamlets. When my team asked the village head “What is the most important problem that EBPP could solve?” they requested “Education for our children to lead us to a better life.”

With no educational resources available, we designed a curriculum based on what the children, parents and communities needed to know and I trained three local

EBPP school children planting bamboo in their school garden

It was then I decided that when I found the country of my choice, I wanted to dedicate my life to helping the poorest village towards sustainable development prioritizing the health, nutrition and education of children.

people with basic reading and writing skills, as tutors.

The curriculum started with the ABCs of hygiene, sanitation and nutrition.

Our first ‘school’, launched in Bunga hamlet in 1999 for 35 illiterate children aged 6-16, was founded on the same principles as the EBPP’s three promises, also sworn by the parents. This successful thrice weekly programme saw the first 11 children graduate elementary school in 2003. The model was refined and replicated in the next five locations when private funding became available.

What are the greatest challenges facing EBPP today?

Sourcing funds needed, especially for vocational training and university education for our senior high school graduates – who can lead their village to sustainability.

Tell me about one of the most moving moments you have experienced in your work with the villagers.

In 2001, when we had provided the first roof rainwater collection reservoir for Cegi schoolchildren, our local tutor, Ibu Komang Ayi, filled a small container, looked at me and said, “Mr David, clean water.” She had never seen water that was not coloured green or brown before.

Tears welled up in both our eyes.

What can people do to help support EBPP? Donate to help us buy more site transport to traverse the steep dirt roads; support our continuing local staff empowerment through further education; sponsor our school graduates for university or vocational training; volunteer if you have skills and experience – Indonesian volunteers are especially needed to partner with and empower our local staff.

Visit and donate at: www.eastbalipovertyproject.org

Karen Davis is a NYC artist and writer

EXPAT OUTREACH SPORTS

United by RUNNING We are approaching the dry season and that is good news for one hardy bunch of Jakarta residents: the running community.

Or should that be communities? There are several, including the various hashes; Jakarta Free Spirit; Indo Runners and Senayan Runners, with more cropping up all the time.

By Antony Sutton

Evidently, running is getting more and more popular; you only have to see the ever-increasing number of sponsored events shutting down main arteries in Jakarta to get a sense of the interest in putting one foot in front of another at speed.

What started out as a bit of exercise is rapidly morphing into a lifestyle with the dedicated few building social lives around the activity. On a recent trip to Bangkok, for example, I met a friend of mine who was on his way to compete in a race in Sihanoukville, Cambodia with some friends.

It’s not about buying the latest Nikes and trying to look cool — for more and more people it is an activity to be shared and enjoyed in the company of others.

Scott Cunliffe is one such example. He took up running back in 2010 in a bid to curb the excesses of the night before. This meant the Hash was out of the picture, so he looked around and settled on the Senayan Runners, a small, close-knit friendly bunch of runners who do their thing on a regular basis at the Bung Karno Stadium in the centre of Jakarta.

“We take our running seriously,” said Scott as he explained the attractions of the club.

“We hire a running coach to help us to develop as runners, but we still have a good laugh together and what happens off the track stays off the track,” he smiled.

While many see running as something they can do near their house, half a dozen Senayan Runners recently set off to take part in the Tokyo Marathon. Some went

with their families, some stuck around to go skiing — like I said, more than just running.

members, they are keen to emphasise the running side of their club.

However, Scott is keen to stress the camaraderie in the group. As someone who is actively in conflict resolution in his day job, he recognises the positive effect running can have on people and explains the club has members of all It’s not about buying faiths, races and creeds. the latest Nikes United by and trying to look running.

“We are a community of runners largely Jakarta-based who run in Senayan (on the running track inside the stadium). We have a great coach, Siprianus, a former national athlete, who gives us great tips and motivation,” added Scott.

One of the exercises they do is something called interval running. Here they may run 400 metres 10 times with a short break in between, the idea being to hold a steady pace or even increase it.

cool – for more and more people it is an activity to be shared and enjoyed in the company of others.

Training is carried out every Tuesday and Thursday at 6am, while the weekends see the group venture out on longer runs like half marathons, or the full 26-miler. There are also a few triathletes in the group who add cycling and swimming to their efforts.

I sat with Scott in a well-known watering hole in Kemang. Comfortably middle-aged and manifestly fit, he was sipping water while I necked my beer. The casual way he was dropping references to sprints, marathons and intense training sessions was making me feel uncomfortable as I struggled with my bulk on the bar stool. To be fair, the Englishman had just spent the last three or four nights on the town following his Tokyo exertions, but he was already planning to get running as soon as possible.

Senayan Runners boast a hard core of 15-20 runners, and while it is open to new

“Because we are close-knit, we know our strengths and weaknesses and that means we are able to offer each other support that is perhaps more heartfelt than your typical ‘come on, you can do it’,” explains Scott.

It does seem like during the dry season hardly a weekend goes by without some large running event and I wanted to know what was driving this surge in interest.

“I think as the middle class expands,” he says, “people obviously have a bit more cash in their pockets and are looking for ways to spend it. And also, people are more aware of their health. We saw this in the West back in the late 70s and 80s as people took up jogging and going to the gym. The same thing is happening here.”

The ‘latest craze’ element is something the Senayan Runners are fully aware of and is perhaps one reason why they are not as evangelical as other groups. Not for these guys, the frivolity of brightly coloured running shoes worn by people with selfie sticks.

“When I first started running you would get 200, 300, 500 people at a race. Now it can be up to 10,000. It is booming and now you have these gimmicky-type runs (The Colour Run for example) and people get involved because of the publicity, but they find they enjoy it and become really active in the scene,” Scott says.

Summing up, Scott highlights the community feeling in the group and reflects on the backgrounds of the people he now calls friends musing how he could apply these experiences to his day job as he seeks to improve inter-faith dialogue in fractious zones across the country.

Interested? Check out the Senayan Runners on their Facebook page or get your best Reeboks on, head down the Bung Karno Stadium early Tuesday and Thursday mornings and be prepared to show a clean pair of heels to the competition.

Antony is a freelance writer based in Jakarta.

Please send comments and suggestions to antony@ the-spiceislands.com

issue 138 indonesia expat

21

EXPAT OUTREACH WORTHY CAUSES

Dua Tangan Cukup

©Jim Kaunang

Helping the

in Need

By Angela Richardson Dian at work

Mary’s Cancer Kiddies (MCK), a charity providing financial support for the treatment of children with cancer in Jakarta, was propelled into the spotlight when Scott Thompson, a Scottish expat working in Jakarta, ran from Bali to Jakarta to raise money in their name. Thompson successfully ran this great distance of 1,250km—with the children’s faces, no doubt, as his inspiration—making it clear that this charity was one worth going the distance for.

This noble cause was originally started in 2003 by Australian then-expat and journalist, Mary Binks. On a visit to Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM), Mary met cancer-suffering children in the non-infectious ward and was appalled that the families could not afford even the most basic diagnostic procedures. She promised then and there to pay for some of the tests required, eventually realizing that the issue was far bigger than just finding money for a few scans. “I would need to start raising serious money on a grand scale to help as many children and their families as possible. And so the idea of MCK was born,” Mary tells me. Mary’s philosophy is that “a life not lived helping others is a life not lived.”

which usually requires surgery and removal of the affected eye. Julie also personally emotional and spiritual support on her visits to the hospital. “Sometimes I bring other women from my prayer group and we ask parents if we can pray for their children in the hospitals, regardless of their religion. We are always received positively,” Julie explains.

In 2014, the Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial Kesehatan (BPJS) system came into effect, providing healthcare for Indonesian families. Through this system, however, not everything is always covered, especially when it comes to cancer, as MCK quickly learned. There is a list of all medicines covered by BPJS, but there is a cap on the amount that the government will cover per medication, per patient. Low-income families who aren’t able to cover Mary felt very strongly from the beginning that Last year, the remaining costs will be supported by MCK. A her organisation would not just be about Mary’s Cancer downside Julie has seen in the new system is that money, but also about being there with the Kiddies helped it often takes time for families to apply for BPJS child until the very end: “It's incredibly an amazing and get the correct paperwork together, which can difficult to watch a seven-year-old die; a 807 children, contribute to the child’s situation worsening. Since its child who should be riding a bike or kicking a football not knowing what the inside of a including 163 arrival, however, Julie has seen more and more private hospital even looks like. It's an experience that babies. hospitals opening their doors to the system — a very encouraging development. stays with you for the rest of your life…”

In 1999, now-MCK Chairwoman Julie van Laarhoven moved to Indonesia with her husband, meeting Mary at a playgroup in 2003, where she felt compelled to support Mary’s cause. “I was with the International English Service Church and our life group felt strongly that we wanted to do something to help and so we raised money to pay for chemotherapy for the children,” Julie explains.

“When Mary started, she would meet the children and their families and would write these beautiful profiles, spending time to hear their hearts. This made it difficult for sponsors to say no to such a desperate situations to help the children get medical treatment.”

When Mary moved to Israel and then eventually home to Australia, Julie and a team of five passionate volunteers— including two Indonesian dentists—have continued to keep up the amazing work for the children. “It was heart-wrenching leaving MCK, the patients and their families,” Mary explains, “but Julie and a succession of extremely wonderful volunteers transformed MCK into an organisation more far-reaching than I could have imagined.”

Today, MCK works together with six doctors, sending them money every month to help cover the costs of cancer treatment, as well as other illnesses, for children and premature babies at RSCM and Rumah Sakit Kanker Dharmais (RSKD). “The doctors are our ears and our eyes and we’ve worked with the same team since the beginning,” Julie explains.

Meetings between MCK volunteers and doctors take place on a monthly basis, which has established very solid relationships, and doctors find it extremely helpful to know that there is money available, ready to be used for children’s treatment when needed. The doctors spend the money on low-income families only, and there is utmost trust between them and MCK volunteers. Monthly reports are produced by the doctors, including invoices and receipts, keeping everything transparent.

On top of providing financial support for treatment through MCK also provides prosthetic eyes for children who have retinoblastoma, a very aggressive type of cancer, 22

indonesia expat issue 138

Working with sick children must be extremely hard, so what keeps the MCK team going? “There was a boy named Bayu. He had a tumour the size of a football on his eye socket. He came from a little village in Riau that doesn’t even have electricity and their family somehow managed to bring him over to Jakarta. I would go to Cipto and sit with his mum and dad while he underwent treatment and surgery. After Bayu was cancer-free, his mum would call me every couple of months to thank me for helping him.

You can’t put that feeling into words and that’s what keeps me going,” Julie answers as her eyes tear up with emotion.

It is a shame that the government has never acknowledged this organisation’s hard work and efforts to support the children of Indonesia and Julie’s message to them would be to continue to improve the BPJS system because—although not perfect yet—it certainly does help.

Mary dreams that all Indonesian children have the same opportunities to live as children in developed countries have, hoping that Indonesian babies will no longer be abandoned at hospitals when a mother can’t afford the care.

“My adopted son had to be abandoned at a Jakarta hospital 15 years ago because his birth parents couldn't afford the emergency caesarean that saved both his and his birth mother's lives,” says Mary.

The work of MCK is done solely through their generous sponsors. “We really appreciate our donors and it’s because of their generosity and commitment to raising funds for the cancer kiddies that we’ve been able to continue,” Julie says gratefully.

Last year, Mary’s Cancer Kiddies helped an amazing 807 children, including 163 babies. When asked what inspires Julie to keep going, she replied, “When you visit the children in hospital, there’s just so much fear on the parent’s faces. They’re so afraid because they don’t understand much about cancer, and they are worried because of how much treatment will cost. As a mother you’d do anything to help your child. It doesn’t matter what it costs.”

If you’d like to help volunteer or donate to this worthy cause, please visit www.maryscancerkiddies.org

Miniature Trees Made from Waste Empower Women in Semarang Johar Market in Semarang, Central Java, gets through mountains of bawang putih (literally, ‘white onion’, known as garlic in English) every day. It is the largest market in Semarang city, and garlic is a major commodity there. So what happens to the soft, papery skins discarded from the sorting of so many garlic cloves at the end of each day?

Piles of skins were commonly left strewn on the floors of the market, surrounded by flies. The skins eventually get mixed with other waste, creating a pungent odour, unpleasant for shoppers and stallholders alike.

But recently, a team from PHBD UNAKI (Program Hibah Bina Desa Universitas AKI, a student outreach programme), led by 21-yearold Dian Fatmawati, tried to find a solution to the garlic waste problem in the market.

As it turns out, garlic skin texture is unique and quite beautiful. So, the team had the idea to turn it into works of art, calling their enterprise OSCAR (Garlic Sakura Craft): miniature cherry trees!

The skins are arranged into flower shapes and stuck onto dry stalks, creating what resembles a sakura plant. The ‘plant’ is then festooned with twinkling fairy lights, packed in a box similar to that of an aquarium, and decorated with waste paper, dried bananas, and dried flowers. The walls of the aquarium are made from leftover plywood, with added garlic skin patches arranged to resemble seashells.

These unique and eco-friendly artworks have gone from being waste to having a commercial value. The project creates employment for the housewives of Semarang who create the plants, and has generated interest from several bodies which have awarded grants to the team to keep up the good work, including Toyota’s CSR department.

Sustainable, empowering and creative — what more could you ask for?

Actions From Across The Archipelago

©Jim Kaunang

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Government plans to limit foreign workers INDONESIA The Manpower Ministry has recently announced it will restrict the number of foreign workers in Indonesia. Manpower Minister Hanif Dhakiri said on 14 March that purpose of the move is to provide Indonesian workers with more power and opportunities.

Australia snubbed by Indonesia in visa-free travel plans INDONESIA Australia has been left out of a list of 45 countries to be offered visa-free travel in the near future. This is done amid heightened tensions between Canberra and Jakarta over the impending executions of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, two convicted Australian drug traffickers.

mostly foreigners, due to face the firing squad for drug offences.

Tourism Minister Arif Yahya told reporters the government would start waiving visas for citizens of several Asian and European countries next month, and then ask for reciprocity. However this same policy would not be applied to Australia.

The planned executions sparked public backlash in Australia last month, including a Twitter campaign using the hashtag #BoycottBali calling on tourists to avoid travelling to the Indonesian resort island of Bali, a popular destination among Australians.

"If we give visa-free travel to Australia, we have to be given the same thing," Yahya said. "It cannot be that we give it to them first."

Yahya denied the decision was tied to the planned execution of the two Australians, who are among a group of 10 convicts,

"I am preparing regulations to control [the number of] foreign workers, among others, by tightening the placement of foreign workers in several companies in the country," Hanif said in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan.

One of the ways to limit foreign worker numbers will be the introduction of the Indonesian language test, which Indonesia Expat discusses in our Business Snippet this issue.

In addition, Hanif said the Ministry plans to more tightly control the amount of foreigners through various regulations around the legality of their presence in Indonesia. A starting point will be to accurately determine how many foreigners there currently are working in the country.

SOURCE: ANTARA

"I can guarantee that if the Australian government wants (to agree to visa-free travel), that the foreign minister and president will almost definitely want it too," the minister said.

Australian tourists accounted for 12 percent of foreigners visiting Indonesia in 2014, according to the Indonesian statistics bureau, making them the third largest group after Singaporeans and Malaysians.

SOURCE: REUTERS

Gallery Opening: YellowKorner Indonesia JAKARTA YellowKorner are pleased to announce their Gallery opening at Pacific Place Mall, Jakarta – Level 2. YellowKorner exhibits and markets art photographs, the majority of which are limited editions, numbered and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. Above all, YellowKorner aims to be a link between the public and the artists.

The YellowKorner concept is very simple: to introduce the greatest photographers from all over the world and to increase

Cooking Because We CARE at Sari Pan Pacific JAKARTA A “Learn to Cook” Cooking Class was held

by CARE Champions from the Sari Pan Pacific Jakarta Hotel recently. The CARE (Community of Action and Responsibility to the Environment) Champions—part of the Sari Pan Pacific Jakarta’s CSR team— have held similar events before in a regular programme over the past year. This time, the class was held at a resident’s home in the Sabang area.

But in contrast to previous years, this time CARE Champions will begin to do cooking classes with different dishes each month.

The objective of this long-term programme

is to give new knowledge to housewives who live in the Sabang. The CARE Champions hope that through these regular events, the housewives will gain enough knowledge to perhaps start their own small businesses from home.

At the class, which started at 4pm, the hotel’s Chef Sugito demonstrated how to cook Martabak. Martabak was chosen because it is a very common food that everybody likes and is sold everywhere.

The ingredients are easy to find and it is easy to make. All the participants in this class were also allowed to practice and cook their own version of Martabak.

the number of copies of their work, so it can be accessible to as many collectors as possible. On the occasion of his new series of photographs American West, acclaimed artist Laurent Baheux will be in the gallery for an international tour, at Pacific Place on Friday 27 March from 6pm to 9pm. The French photographer is now famous for his portraits of African wildlife shown at the London Museum of National History in 2008. Come visit, have an autograph session with Laurent, and explore the stories behind his and other’s pictures.

Easter Sunday at Finn’s Beach Club BALI Finn’s Beach Club Ungasan is holding their annual Easter Sunday festivities on April 5. Catering for families, couples and friends, there truly is something for everyone at this event.

Kick back on the beach for lunch and enjoy Finn’s resident DJ (spinning tunes from 1pm–5pm).

From 5pm Australia’s favourite acoustic artist, Athron McCann is back and playing live until 9pm. This is also the perfect time to take full advantage of Finn’s Beat the Clock Happy Hour,

from 4pm. Enjoy savings of up to 50% off all cocktails, beers and wines (by the glass) until 9pm. The beach bonfires will also be fired up from sunset.

Bringing the kids? Head over early and they can enjoy a special kids buffet (Rp.150,000++) at Selatan Cliff Top Restaurant (no entrance fee) from 11am5pm. They will also be able to enjoy Easter Egg Painting, Easter Bunny Face Painting, a Bouncing Castle, Kids Party Games and a Mini Zoo! Talk about a day of fun for the little ones. issue 138 indonesia expat

23

The Old Hands

* Answers in the next edition!

LIGHT ENTERTAINMENT

CROSSWORD

By Eamonn Sadler (www.eamonnsadler.com)

There is always kudos in the amount of time you have been doing something, a kind of “seniority of time”, as if the longer people do something the better they get at it. There is no substitute for experience, of course, so the basic principle behind this is a sound one. In the fire service the firefighter with the longest service enjoys a kind of honorary rank, which manifests itself in the fact that he or she never has to do the dirty jobs. The reasoning is that he or she has done his or her share of the dirty jobs over the years and now it’s somebody else’s turn. Conversely, the shorter the time a firefighter has served the dirtier the job he or she is assigned. There is a fairness and logic in this alongside a general and over-riding respect for age; the younger, stronger person should do the harder jobs and the older person should enjoy some privileges and relax a little.

When I was in the service, a common joke whenever a young firefighter expressed an opinion about anything was to ask, “How long have you been in the job?” and then before he or she could answer you would add, “Don’t look at your watch.”

The same thing applies in expat life. There is a kind of seniority in the community, which is linked to the amount of time a person has been in the current country, and an added seniority in how many years the person has been living outside of his or her native country. Of course there are no ‘dirty jobs’ as such, but the old hands do enjoy a kind of rank attached to their age and length of service. It is interesting to note that long-term expats are often referred to as ‘old hands’, which is a navy term used to describe the longest-serving seamen on a ship. Seamen were the world’s first and most common ‘expats’, so it’s easy to see why this term has become common in this context.

There is even a bar in Hong Kong called The Old China Hand.

Interestingly for me, the same term is used to describe the longest-serving firefighters on a watch, because the British Fire service is based to large extent on the British Navy.

"Whenever we meet other expats for the first time it is almost guaranteed that the third question you or the other person will ask is, “How long have you been out here then?”

All firefighters are referred to as ‘hands’ and the longest serving are the ‘old hands’. (The navy developed the first and best firefighting techniques centuries ago, because when you are on a wooden ship using open flames for light, heat and cooking while sailing thousands of miles from dry land you need to be extremely skilled at putting out fires.)

Whenever we meet other expats for the first time it is almost guaranteed that the third question you or the other person will ask is, “How long have you been out here then?” The first question is, “What is your name?” and the second is, “What brings you out here then?” (meaning “What do you do to earn money?”).

The third question is designed to find out if you or the other person is the ‘older hand’.

There are no real benefits to being the ‘older hand’ in the expat context, but there is a kind of pride in being among the longer-serving in the community. I think the kudos is more linked to the number of contacts you must have and the fact that to survive as an expat you need to be very successful as a businessperson or pretty spectacular as an employee – there is no unemployment benefit and families are generally a long way away, so there are none of the support systems that people who stay in their home countries take for granted.

So to Melkom, who commented on my last story in the Education issue saying, “Don’t you guys have anything better to do? Some of us actually work here!” I would say “Huh?” and “So do we.” I think you would be better off reading a Chamber of Commerce newsletter.

Eamonn has lived and worked in Indonesia for over 20 years but doesn’t understand the country at all and now realises that he never will. He is an entrepreneur, businessman and writer, lead singer with expat band Xhibit A and the owner and operator of The Jakarta Comedy Club and The Bali Comedy Club.

IS MADE POSSIBLE BY:

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indonesia expat issue 138

ACROSS 1. Grape wine spirit (6) 4. Substance obtained from sap (5) 7. Away from the sea (6) 8. Drink (6) 9. Equitable ? - trade show (4) 10. Lame menu (anag) - Cambridge college (8) 12. Etch moronic (anag) - having the same centre (11) 17. Fairness (anag) - printing type (8) 19. Old Russian 22 (4) 20. Murderous (6) 21. Swing bowler (6) 22. Strip with straight edges (5) 23. Japan's main island (6)

DOWN 1. Under (7) 2. A ragman (anag) (7) 3. One driven at 9s (6,3) 4. Afro-Cuban dance (5) 5. Things that cause a response (7) 6. Annoy - syringe (6) 11. Declaration of political programme (9) 13. Defender's faux pas (3,4) 14. Ceremonies (7) 15. French county house (7) 16. Pressure line on map (6) 18. Duck (down!) (5)

ANSWERS OF ISSUE 137 ACROSS — 1. Anachronism 9. Couplings 10. Owe 11. Of use 13. Will you 14. Howler 15. Vilify 18. Marry me 20. Steal 21. End 22. Archetype 24. Mystery tour

DOWN — 2. NFU 3. College 4. Renown 5. Nasal

6. Story line 7. Echo chamber 8. Beauty sleep 12. Unworldly 16. Inspect 17. De-icer 19. Yeast 23. You

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OBSERVATIONS

Tales from the Kantor Floor

Annali Hayward is an expert eater, decisive drinker, fumbling fashionista and tasteful traveller, who writes to savour it all – preferably at once. E-mail her at annali.s.hayward@gmail.com

Let’s face it: for all the wonderful, awe-inspiring, eye-opening things about living in Indonesia— and there are many, from the jaw-dropping travel to the breath-taking scenery—some days in the archipelago are just plain funny. Especially if you work in an office.

We canvassed expats from a variety of industries for their wackiest experiences to date in their Indonesian workplaces. Here’s the cream of the crop – but we bet there are many more where these came from, so email, comment on the website, or find us on Facebook to share your gems!

By Annali Hayward

Only Fools and Horses – in Banking Staff attendance is a cinch, right? Wrong. Think again if you’ve got your absence levels under control – because in Indonesia, all is not always what it seems…

“Like many companies in Indonesia, we have a thumbprint recognition system fixed to the entrance doors at our office.

Every single member of staff—from the Office Boy to the President Director—gets to have their Mission Impossible moment and punch in his or her unique print to gain access to the building. HR use the system to monitor attendance – and it is also the data on which they base the payment of the appropriate daily allowances that most staff receive for things like transport (though I’ve always thought, in other countries, this might be viewed as an extra bonus just for turning up to work…and not even necessarily on time!).

One day, four junior members of staff were missing from their desks. Mysteriously however, they had somehow still managed to scan their sticky mitts in at the beginning and the end of the workday. Either they developed body doubles, or they were taking us for a ride. I’d place a safe bet on the latter.

This went on for almost a week whilst we built up a watertight case, relying on CCTV footage of the perpetrators hopping off their bikes, swiping their digits and then merrily going on their way to a day’s dossing. Suffice to say, the four members of staff in question were fairly easily convinced it was the appropriate time for them to continue their careers elsewhere.”

- Mr. Motivator, Pondok Indah

Thank You, Come Again – in Oil & Gas Many markets struggle with the delicate business of ending a contract of employment. But in Indonesia, sometimes, it ain’t over ‘til it’s over.

“For a variety of reasons it became clear that a particular junior manager needed to leave the business. As is often done here, we consulted with the person in question and they agreed to resign.

Arrangements were made. An amicable leaving party was organised. Tea, cakes and well-wishes were exchanged and enjoyed, and we bid the manager adieu.

So far, so normal.

Three days later, bold as brass, this supposedly exemployee sauntered back into work and resumed their duties, pretending nothing had happened. Picking our jaws up off the floor, we organised ourselves to query the plucky young pretender – at which point, things got even more interesting.

The manager informed us that a sum of money would be required in order to smoothly process this particular transaction. But not just any sum of money.

A modest one-off payment of one hundred times their last salary would do the trick.

When we eventually found the words to respond, we politely stuttered out a decline to this particular offer, and reiterated the requirement that the manager, as an ex-employee, should leave the premises immediately – which they did.

We thought we had won the war when the person in question didn’t show up again for a couple of months.

But one final wrinkle was still to be ironed out: they needed to sign an agreement confirming that they had, indeed, once and for all, left our employment.

The thing is, this ex-manager kept refusing to sign anything. We contacted them numerous times over the months and heard nothing in return. Eventually, we discovered it would be quite acceptable (according to local employment laws) for us to contact the head of this person’s village, who could sign the papers on their behalf.

We tracked down this character eventually – but the kindly old village head staunchly refused to sign anything. So, to this day it is a stalemate – a state of uncertainty. The ex-employee no longer gets paid by us, and doesn’t come in to work. But technically, they also still have an open contract with us. Only in Indonesia?”

– It’s Not Me, It’s You, Balikpapan

A modest one-off payment of one hundred times their last salary would do the trick.

Gizza Job – in Manufacturing The arduous pursuit of recruiting decent staff is beset with trials and tribulations in any country. But in Indonesia, it can be filled with the added bonuses of hilarity, surprise and intrigue. A recent experience was no exception.

“We had a fairly senior position to fill, and in order to work with colleagues internationally, a certain level of written and spoken English would be required of the candidate. The usual rigmarole of CV screening was carried out, and those whose résumés apparently fitted the bill were invited in for an interview with myself and my Indonesian counterpart. It was a small pool of candidates, and on a brief scan of the CVs beforehand, this one particular chap’s was no worse, no better than any others. We called him in for interview.

joining us later for a second round of questioning. But we didn’t get that far.

Starting things off in the usual chatty manner, I greeted the candidate in question and sat down to begin the interview. My Indonesian colleague would be

After a couple of minutes, he returned, looking troubled. “It looks like we need to pay him to leave,” he said. I had to ask him to repeat himself, not quite

Within two minutes it became painfully clear that the interviewee did not actually speak English. To be clear, it was not that his English was poor. It was nonexistent. We simply couldn’t communicate with each other. So, never one to waste any time, I excused myself and went to fetch my Indonesian associate, asking him to go in and politely end the interview.

believing what I had heard. It turns out, the guy was a scammer who practically made a living going around offices pulling the same routine on other companies.

I trusted my colleague’s judgment and experience – he can spot a troublemaker a mile off, and it is better in these situations to be safe than sorry. So we paid a small but not insignificant amount to the man, who happily left the premises, job done. All in a day’s work.”

– Mo’ Money Mo’ Problems, Bekasi

issue 138 indonesia expat

25

EVENTS

JAKARTA

BALI

Business

Culture

The 4th Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) 2015 27–30 April 2015 Jakarta’s golf courses offer some of the best hospitality in Asia, so this lively city is the perfect venue for the golf tourism industry’s premier event in the Asia-Pacific region. More than 4,000 meetings will take place between golf tour operators and golf resorts, golf clubs, hotels, inbound operators and tourist boards over two days. The AGTC attracts over 500 delegates from 32 countries, including some 150 golf tour operators, all selling Asia Pacific golf destinations, from all leading markets. During the event, golf resorts, golf clubs, hotels and other suppliers can have up to 38 appointments of 15 minutes with golf tour operators from over 30 countries. All delegates are invited to enjoy the Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner and can participate in the AGTC Golf Tournament on the final day. Balai Sidang Jakarta Convention Centre www.iagto.com/agtc

27 March 2015 The 8th networking event proudly presents to you the Indonesian Heritage Tenun Ikat Fashion, cour tesy of Mar tha Ellen, a UK designer whose eponymous label showc a ses ik at . Great discussions and presentations will cover how to wear ikat as a fashion statement that fits into your everyday life, how to dress for your body shape, and mixand-matching outfit suggestions for different occasions: whether work, holidays, or weddings.

Prizes will be fabulous — who knows, one of Martha’s beautiful designs could be yours! Dinner at Chronicle Dharmawangsa, and the networking/fashion event are included in the fee of Rp.150,000.

RSVP to Jessica at manager@ whatsnewjakarta.com or +62 (0) 813 1117 7732/ +62 (0) 878 7879 7657, www.facebook.com/ events/1376058352713661 Food & Drink

BritCham Business and Social Gathering 26 March 2015 Our members rate these gatherings ver y highly. They fast-track networking and drive our thriving intra-membership business. Whether your mission is bra nd-awa rene ss, t o sel l products, to source services, to establish your business as part of a supply chain, or simply to make new acquaintances, this is the Britcham Platform. Light snacks and free-flow of juices, wines and beers create the perfect scene for after office hours. Entrance Fees are for Members: Rp.280,000, Non-Members: Rp.420,000.

RSVP: events@britcham.or.id, or http://www.britcham.or.id/ BritCham's Professional Women: Success Stories of Business Leaders 9 April 2015 Business Ladies Only! Listen to success stories from business leaders and learn how they are inspiring women in Indonesia.

Speakers are Noor Meurling, S e r v i c e L e g a l C on s u l t a nt , Oentoeng Sur ya & Partners; Mee Kim - Founder & President, Ceo Suite; Jimmy Gani Executive Director & CEO, IPMI International Business School.

Entrance Fee: Rp.100,000 (if booking before March 27) and Rp.150,000 (if booking after March 27). Register at events@ britcham.or.id, and visit www. britcham.or.id

26

indonesia expat issue 138

An Evening with Michael Bolton

Jakarta Fabulous Working Ladies 8th Gathering

Indonesia Wine & Spirits Expo 2015 31 March–2 April 2015 Indonesia is purportedly the fa stest-g row ing w ine a nd spir its market in Southea st Asia, due to the growth of the Indonesian middle classes. Big players in the market want to reach Indonesian buyers, and they need a platform to meet and participate in the growth of the wine and spirits business in the future. Bringing together certified and authorized importers along with manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and distributors from all over the world, the event will be three days of exhibitions and workshops, blind tastings, cocktail demonstrations and even a wine auction. The event w i l l b e held at Sa mp o er n a S t r at e g ic S qu a r e , Ja k a r t a .

For further info email info@ indonesiawineandspirits.com www.indonesiawineandspirits. com. Tel: +62 (0)21 7917 0744 Music Lenny Kravitz — Strut World Tour 2015 26 March 2015 Another major star is drawn to Indonesia’s burgeoning gig-going fanbase in March, in the shape of

gorgeous American god of rock, Lenny Kravitz. No doubt thrilling the crowds with his electric riffs, moves and choruses the world over on his Strut tour, Lenny is set to bring his special brand of devil-may-care charm to the Big Durian, to the delight of fans. Book now! http://variantentertainment.com/

Tiga Puluh’s 16th Anniversary — Classic Disco Beats 28 March 2015 Celebrate the anniversary of Tiga Puluh Music Bar + Lounge with Classic Disco Beat party, from 10pm onwards. The resident and guest DJ will spin famous classic disco beat anthems all night long – and, not to be missed, the performance of the home band will be hot. Special Promotions include 20% off spirits by bottle, 10% off wine bottles and buy 2 get 3 cocktails. +62 (0) 21 2513131 or dining.jakarta@lemeridien.com

Katy Perry – Prismatic World Tour 9 May 2015 A mer ic a n p op si nger K at y Perr y w ill make her second visit to Indonesia as part of her 2015 Prismatic World Tour, performing at the Indonesia Convention Centre (ICE) at BSD City, Tangerang, Banten, west of Jakarta, on May 9. Tickets for the concert, which is being promoted by Ismaya Live, AEG Live and Sound Rhythm, will be on sale starting February 14, and will range from Rp.900,000 (US$70.74) to Rp.5,000,000.

Perry is touring in support of her 2013 album Prism, which debuted at the top of the Billboard Music Chart. www.katyperryjkt.com

2 June 2015 Grammy legend Michael Bolton brings a hit-filled set list of soulful cla ssics, power ba llads and beautiful arias to Jakarta in June.

Michael's artistic achievements include two Grammy Awards, six American Music Awards, twenty four BMI & ASCAP Awards, nine Million-Air Awards, Hitmakers Songwriter of the Year Award and a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His diverse musical interests have produced eight Top Ten studio albums and nine charttopping singles across Pop, Jazz & Classical charts and global sales of more than 53 million. His 23rd studio album, Ain't No Mountain High Enough, (Sony Music) is an authentic tribute to Hitsville USA in collaboration with Motown legends Smokey Robinson and Valerie Simpson and features duet s w ith contempora r y artists Kelly Rowland, Michael Lington, Melanie Fiona and Delta Goodrem. Ticket Prices are: VVIP Rp.3,000,000, VIP Rp.1,750,000, Diamond Rp.1,500,000, Gold Rp.1,200,000, Silver Rp.750,000. +62 (0) 21) 3005 3560, www. rajakarcis.com or email info@ mbjakarta.com Charity

BWA Fashion Show 2015: Space Odyssey 9 May 2015 Get ready for an experience that goes beyond sight and sound with the 33 rd annual BWA Fashion Show! One of the most anticipated events in the expat social scene, it’s a dance/cabaret extravaganza, performed by BWA members featuring local designers, hair stylists, and makeup professionals.

A fabulous black-tie affair for guests, with a three-course meal, the event also includes free-flow drinks, an after-show party and midnight snacks! Tickets are Rp.1,650,000pp all inclusive.

You can buy at the BWA House on 11 March, when the association will host a guests-and-members coffee morning for ticket sales, starting at 10am. Don’t miss out!

For more information, please contact fstickets@bwajakarta.org www.bwajakarta.org Nanny’s Pavillon Charity Pancake Festival 5 April 2015 As part of a two month-long series of events in support of charity Foundation for Women and Children’s Health (FMCH), Nanny’s Pavillon will hold a funpacked pancake day from 2pm to 5pm. Take the kids to join in a fun Pancake Run Challenge, Pancake Flip Challenge, Pancake Eating Challenge (w ith a minimum spend), a s wel l a s enjoy ing Fa c e Pa i nt i ng a nd a Phot o

Shooting Booth. Enrolment is Rp.100.000pp for all activities and the proceeds go to FMCH. There’s a chance to win a big grand prize, and you can also enjoy a special ticket price on an Apron Set at Rp.100,000, with free personalized name embroider y (normally Rp.150,000). Broadway Stage, Summarecon Mal (Serpong) +62 (0) 819 08 999 777 www.nannyspavillon.com Culture

Easter Sunday Bazaar at Tugu Kunstkrieg Paleis 5 April 2015 C elebrate Ea ster Sunday at K u n s t k r i e g a n d e nj o y t h e a m bi e n c e o f t h e b e a u t i f u l historical building. There will be various vendors with jewellery, handicraf ts, batik, clothing, silverware, leather, home décor and more for you to shop ‘til you drop. Then you can relax in the beautiful garden with live music performances, portrait sketching and different cuisines.

A lovely family outing – and dogs are welcome to boot! +62 (0) 21 3900899, www.tuguhotels.com

PaperPower: Exhibition by Ida Bagus Putu Purwa and Noella Roos 5–20 April 2015 Introducing PaperPower, an exhibition of art on paper from artists of two realms; Noella Roos from the Netherlands and Ida Bagus Putu Purwa from Bali, both of whom now reside in Sanur. This exhibition ensued from the meeting of similarities and differences in both artists’ works. Noella and Purwa choose to work with dancers as their artistic subject for very different reasons. Coincidentally both ar tists were inspired by the drawings from a very small book of Dooijenwaard, a Dutch artist who worked in Bali around 1922, and it is enthralling to see how their two worlds collide. Danes Art Veranda, Jl. Hayam Wuruk 159, Denpasar.

Charity

Travel

Have a Heart: Cabaret Dinner Dance Fundraiser

idGuides Easy Escape Jakarta Trek & Camp season 14–31 March 2015 Recharge for Easter by joining a unique fresh air family escape, 90 minutes’ drive from Jakarta.

Book a private family walk, half day or full day trek, any day of the week. Explore as many as 12 different trails, guided by one of idGuides famous Community Trail Guides. Visit Acacia Camp with family, friends or colleagues for a day BBQ or picnic. Check out our new website for details and learn how you are making a difference to local communities with each and every visit. 10% off during the season. www.idguides. net or email info@idguides.org

10 April 2015 The Rotar y Club of Ba li (Seminyak) presents a Musical C a b a r e t d i r e c t f r om Hong Kong, at the Trans Resort Bali, Seminyak, in support of Yayasan Senyum (The Smile Foundation).

An evening of music and dance, with a silent auction, raffle and more. Cocktail reception at 6pm, dinner at 7.30pm and the cabaret starts at 9pm – be sure to stick around for dancing at 10pm!

Donation tickets are Rp.850,000/ person, but for an advance table of 10 the price is Rp.7,650,000.

Dress code: semi-formal. +62 (0) 821 46 323 517 or +62 (0) 857 434 477, haveaheartsmile@gmail.com

If you want your event to be posted here, please contact (+62) 0 21 719 5908 or e-mail events@indonesiaexpat.biz

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INTERNATIONAL, DOMESTIC, LOCAL, OFFICE MOVING, STORAGE Call Francois 085 8838 98678 E-mail: francois@safeway.co.id or Firdaus: 0812 945 6005 E-mail: firdaus@safewayrelo.com Website: www.safewayrelo.com “RELOCATION MADE EASY’’

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

DB Schenker can handle your move smoothly and efficiently from A to Z. The DB Schenker relocation service handles the complete planning and organization of a move, and of course ensures it is completed on schedule.

DB Schenker relocations is your ideal moving partner with the competitive edge.

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.

Contact: Ovilia Faratika Mobile: +62 81 8844 777 E-mail: ovilia.faratika@dbschenker.com E-mail: removal.jkt-id@dbschenker.com

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

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

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

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

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!

TV Karaoke. Disco Lights. Bar Fridge. Toilet. 20 pax City tour? Hen's or Buck's Night? VIP Airport Pick-up? Birthday? Wedding? A Company Event?

CALL: 021 987 92877 E-mail: info@royalevipbus.com Web: www.royalevipbus.com

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

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

TO BOOK SPACE ON THIS DIRECTORY PAGE CALL: 021 719 5908

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

Next deadline: 1 April

CONDITIONS Personal classifieds Commercial classifieds

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

Property listings are considered as Commercial.

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

JAKARTA Jobs available

Indonesia Expat is hiring an Events Organizer/Sales Executive (local)! The position will require organizing at least two events for Indonesia Expat in 2015, as well as selling advertising space in the publication and online. The ideal candidate will be a real gogetter, have heaps of personality, be very friendly, with a minimum of one year’s experience in events management. Very good verbal and written English is a must, as is the ability to multi-task.

The position will be full-time, based in South Jakarta, with a good basic salary and commissions to complement. If you believe you’re the person, please send your CV and cover letter to info@ indonesiaexpat.biz Only successful candidates will be contacted.

Full Time and Part Time vacancies are now available for experienced English language instructors for corporate courses around Jakarta. Competitive rates and travel allowance are offered. Please send your CV to recruitment@ kpiconsultancy.com H i . I a m lo ok i ng for s hor t t e r m d r i v e r (w i t h g o o d recommendations) for one month, starting from the end of March.

I live in Kemang. Kindly let me know if anybody is interested in.

Salary is not a constraint for a suitable person. Either mail me on nehaachaudhary@gmail.com, Whatsapp on +62 (0) 813 1633 2601 or call.

Looking for work Driver available now. Excellent English, polite, with positive attitude. Age approx 40 yrs.

Eight years driving experience.

No accidents. Police clearance c er t i f ic at e . Fem a le . S a la r y R p . 2 .7 m i l l i o n . A s k f o r a n interview and test drive. SMS Egi and then Egi will call you back. +62 (0) 859 6674 5759.

Part-time live out maid available f r o m Mo n d a y t o S a t u r d a y between 9am and 3pm, areas: K e m a n g , C i p e t e , Pe j a t e n , Ciganjur. Herewith I would like

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to recommend Ibu Juju to work as part-time live out maid. She has worked for us for 1 year. As we are moving to North Jakarta which is too far for her I am looking to find her a new position. Juju is a very sweet and upbeat lady who takes good care of the house. She cleans, irons and does laundry. During our month’s leave back to Holland she took great care of our cats. In the year that she has worked for us she has only been sick for one day. She is reliable, has a great sense of responsibility and most important she is trustworthy. If interested please sms me, Aisling Heikamp, on +62 (0) 812 8967 0189 or Whattsapp me on +31 610 209 709. *Live in or Live out Gardener / House Boy*. I would like to r e c om mend my g a r dener / Houseboy, A ri. A lthough he lives in, he would be happy to live out. He does have limited English, but is able to work well under instruction. He keeps the garden clean and tidy, cutting the grass, and overhanging branches, pulling weeds, keeping the pool free from leaves etc. He also does general cleaning around the house including washing dishes, sweeping and mopping outdoor t i les a rea s (ea ch mor ning), windows (weekly), and general household clean up as required.

He will do anything that is asked of him. Ari is available from April 1 and please do not hesitate to contact him if you are interested.

Ari can be contacted on his hand phone on 08777 440 7577 or by emailing me rachel.boxshall@ gmail.com or calling +62 (0) 811 920 4416

language pair (both ways) please call us (FNA) +62 (0) 812 8821 5625 Email: elejakarta@gmail. com Bahasa Indonesia lessons for expats living in South Jakarta, Kuningan, Country Wood, BSD, given by instructor with 20 years experience. Flexible Schedule.

Plea se c a l l Pa k C ha ir uma n +62 (0) 812 103 7466 email chairuman1942@gmail.com The best and experienced teacher will come to your place. Help you with your Mathematics and Sciences and Bahasa Indonesia.

All level (primary/secondary/ university), all curriculum (IB/ IGCSE, etc). Fee is affordable.

Satisfaction guaranteed. Pls call.

Mr. Fernando +62 (0) 21 9602 1800.

Highly Recommended Masseur: Enjoy a relaxing massage at home.

Ethical and legitimate (no funny business). Recommended for people with circulation problems and stress related symptoms.

Expat references available on request. Speaks English and Japanese. Tel: Megan Chan +62 (0) 838 207 0999 PROPERTY

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

B e verly Tower A pa r t ment , a dd re s s: T B si mat upa ng Simatupang street, Cilandak Barat, South Jakarta. All new fully furnished, 2+1 bedroom, luas bangunan 90m. Good location, on ly 10 minutes t o Pondok Indah Mall, 10 min to Pondok Indah Hospital, 5 minutes to Siloam hospital, 5 minutes to toll road Jorr. The location in between JIS school and Don Bosco school, 10 minutes to Citos mall. Facilities: swimming pool for kids and adult, sauna room, f itness room, laundr y room, mini market and private parking USD 1500/ month (negotiable), contact Eva: +6281806502709 or +6281315972494

Spanish/Indonesian translators: If you need experienced and native translators to translate in this

For rent, 300 houses at Kemang, Cipete, Cilandak, Jeruk Purut, Pondok Indah. Big gardens,

A fantastic part-time maid who can work 3 days for 4 to 5 hrs per week is available.... She speaks good English, punctual, works ver y well, honest, good w ith children...She prefers working in Pondok Indah, Cipete, Fatmawati, Simatupang area...Contact: +62 (0) 813 1031 1385.

SERVICES

swimming pools, USD3,0005,000. Phone: +62 (0) 816 859 551 or +62 (0) 817 009 3366.

House for Sale. Bungalow House ( 325 sq. meter ) for sale in Taman Mediterrainian, Lippo Karawaci, Tangerang expat area, mature green environment. Price USD 620,000. Urgent sale - price negotiable. contact: gm5757@ yahoo.com My family and myself have to move back to Europe at the end of April. We need to find someone to take over our lease. Our house is located in Cipete utara, 5 mn with car from the International French School. It’s a beautiful house, completely renovated with 4 rooms with bedrooms each.

There is a swimming pool, and a big garage, and the street is very quiet. If you are interested, please contact me: Marc +62 (0) 81 2 1 98 4 7 733. E m a i l: marcluvisutto@gmail.com Beautiful Apartment for Rent: A beautiful luxurious & spacious (4 +1) 3 2 0 s q m a p a r t m e n t i n Pa k ubu w ono S ig n a t u r e available for immediate rent at a very reasonable rate. Ready to be be rented out furnished or unfurnished with an acceptable price differential. The property has exquisite facilities - which is synonymous to the Pakubuwono Brand and even Pakubuwono calls it their "Signature" project for a very good reason. For viewing/ queries/photos of the apartment please email rentalpakubuwono@ yahoo.com or sms +62 (0) 813 8248 9166.

For rent :Kemang Mansion 3 bedroom plus one ma id's bedroom. Included in Apartment's facilities: swimming p ool, g y m , sau na , 24 hou r security system and support.

Located in South Jakarta, close to SCBD, Kuningan, Pancoran, and Cilandak area. Gross area: 300 m2. Fully furnished, can view 360 degrees city view and kemang view. Upper floor. Please contact me at 08111 929 899 or email me at linda.kusuma888@ gmail.com

we are looking for a second hand drum kit for him to improve his drumming skills. He is only 7 but possibly the next Justin Bieber!!

If you have an unused drum kit around and can help support a kid to reach his rock star dreams, please contact the drummer's mum juliemoreno71@yahoo.com.

Willing to pay a reasonable price.

SOFA FOR SALE: We have 2 blue fabric sofas (3 metres long each) for sales. Rp.5million for both or Rp.3 million for one. Pick up at Cipete. SMS +62 (0) 812 1381 1877 Irene if you are interested.

For rent. Three storey house in Menteng for rent. Included: Sw imming pool, renovated kitchen, remodelled house. Close to Scbd, Senayan, and Sudirman.

Four cars in parking garage.

Building area: 550 m2. Please contact me at 62 8111 929 899 or email me atlinda.kusuma888@ gmail.com AUTOMOTIVE

For Sale: Set of 3 identical Rattan st yle Sunbed s. Im ma cu lat e condition made by the renowned 'Didu' furniture manufacturer in Kemang. 18 months old and used 'honestly' 6 times. Complete with cushions. The cushions have slight storage marks on some of them but are easily machine washable.

Price for all 3 beds Rp7.5 million.

Pick up only in Taman Cilandak.

Please Email me for more info and Pictures if interested. Lawrence Eccleston lozeccleston@aol.com

1974 red VW combi bus, German built. Has undergone extensive renovative work. 65 million rupiah. Contact: mathewsmj@ bigpond.com OTHERS

Nissan Juke RX a/t silver 2011 A ug , 2 3k m . +62 816 81 26 1 2 98856790 2007 Toyota Kijang with 102,000 km (63,000 mi). Regular Jakarta (non-CD) license tags (plates).

Selling for USD 14,000. Has been excellently cared for by our meticulous driver; has new tires as of Jan 2015, regular oil changes etc., clean and never smoked in. Documents are good through January 2016 (we can explain the document process to potential buyers). Car available as of 10 April. For more information, contact: Bruno at bjv27@cornell. edu or Katherine at kas446@ cornell.edu FOR SALE - Toyota Rush, Model S -2011. Ideal city car for city with some bad roads and flooding. We purchased this car in September 2014 from a reputable dealership (our company has bought multiple cars there) but have to sell due to an unexpected relocation. The car is as good as new and good to go! We are the 2nd owners but have rarely driven it, only to maintain the good condition of the engine (maybe 100 Km) due to our relocation. Mileage: 45,727Km, auto transmission. Rp. 147,000,000 or its equivalent in EURO/USD. E-mail: jjvddriest@ hotmail.com or Tel: +62 (0) 811 977 3170.

I'm looking for a Toy ota Avanza to rent on monthly basis, or I can sign 3 or 6 month contracts if preferred. It doesn't need to be new, but should be in good condition. Would like to start on 30-May. If you have a car please contact Amanda at +62 (0) 811 190 5506.

Have to cancel my booking perhaps there is anyone planning to visit Bali on 28-30 March 2015.

The Booking is for 2 nights stay at 2 Bedroom Villas - KUNTI Villas Seminyak. www.KuntiVillas.com.

Selling only Rp.2,000,000 nett including breakfast for 4 persons!

Contact me: +6281311177732, jjanuarty@gmail.com Model mum wanted. The Jakarta Women and Children's clinic are looking for a Caucasian mum (preferably 6-8 months pregnant) to model for our new promotional c a mpa ig n. No ex per ience necessary just a willingness to share your joy with us. This is also a great chance to add a unique record to your baby's story. For details please e-mail Enrico at the JWCC: ngaginta.enrico@ thejwcc.net Boys wanted to model for the Jakarta Women and Children's clinic. We are look ing for a C auc a sia n b oy a ge d 3 - 5 t o model for our new promotional campaign. If you have a little rascal with talent and are proud to share it with us please e-mail Enrico at the JWCC: ngaginta. enrico@thejwcc.net Looking for a wedding organizer in Jakarta who can help to put together a small wedding in Jogjakarta and f ly over for the wedding in August. Experienced, organized, w ith exquisite decorating taste and skills. Please email me at angelajelita@gmail. com Over 20 good quality indoor & outdoor plants in pots for sale.

Pick up Lebak Bulus near CITOS. Rp.1,200,000. Will separate. Tel: +62 (0) 812 9093 1027 or email kpearce1@bigpond.net.au WANTED - DRUM KIT Know this could be a big mistake but....

My son is a talented drummer and

I'm looking to buy used but good condition generators (1 x 20003000 watt and 1 x 5500 watt) and kitchen appliances (coffin freezer/toaster ovens/refrigerator/ stove). Expats (like myself ), generally speaking, simply have a different measure of care for their possessions, so I'm interested in buying from expats that are looking to relocate. If you are relocating and would be interested to sell the above items, please contact me at fun_4me_ok@ yahoo.com. Thank you!

PELABUHAN RATU PROPERTY

Discover Villa Gamrang.

Experience our hospitality and the complete privacy of your own beach house. Villa Gamrang (Cisolok beach, 4 hours’ drive from Jakarta) is designed to offer guests a wonderful and luxurious holiday with beautiful and natural surroundings. Stylish interior, several outdoor terrace’s, sea view, spacious garden, swimming pool, 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, complete kitchen, cable television, internet (WiFi). Idyllic place for couples or one or two families.

Staf f and in house cater ing ava i lable. At tra c t ive pr ices starting from IDR 1,800,000 per night. Most of our guests visit us again. Reservations www. villagamrang.nl or just mail us at villagamrang@gmail.com

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