Indonesia Expat - issue 212

I S S U E N O . 2 12 | 2 5 A P R I L – 8 M AY 2 0 18

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

INSIDE: Traditional and Delicious Nasi Tumpeng Indonesia Top Ten: Facts About Durian El Asador: The Soul of South America Resides in Kemang Meet The Exiles – Jakarta’s Favourite Expat Band

THE FOODIE ISSUE

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Indonesia expat

Chief Editorial Advisor

issue 212

DEAR Readers,

Bernhard Eduard Frese editor@indonesiaexpat.biz

Marketing Consultant Edo Frese edo@indonesiaexpat.biz

Editorial Assistant letters@indonesiaexpat.biz

Sales & Advertising Dian Mardianingsih (Jakarta) Wahyu Atmaja (Bali) ads@indonesiaexpat.biz

Distribution & Admin Juni Setiawan admin@indonesiaexpat.biz

I think it is fair to say that there is something of the “foodie” in all of us. Whether you consider yourself a bona fide gourmet or you just have definite favourites when it comes to food, your preferences and your knowledge make you an expert in your field - no matter how small your field may be! In this issue we find out what some of the expats living in Jakarta think about food, the dishes they miss from home and the dishes they love in Indonesia. We’ve also interviewed a chef and reviewed one of Jakarta’s newest and bestknown additions to the restaurant scene to find out what’s going on. It’s all about food in this issue, plus we have our regular columns to keep you informed about scams in the city, expat living and more. Read on!

FEATURE STORY Meet The Exiles – Jakarta's Favourite Expat Band

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BUSINESS Komunal 88: Sustainability is Good for Business

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BUSINESS PROFILE An Economy Ripe for Disruption

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CULTURE Nasi Tumpeng: Traditional and Delicious

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SCAMS IN THE CITY Hatching Hoaxes

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WORTHY CAUSES Rachel House

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EXPAT ADVICE Protecting Your Children against Illness in Indonesia

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TRAVEL Exploring Sungai Kapuas

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SNA MEDIA CLUB COLUMN Interesting Landmarks in Madura

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FOOD AND DRINK El Asador – The Soul of South America Resides in Kemang

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TOP TEN Ten Facts about Durian

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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EVENTS

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CLASSIFIEDS

Until next time,

Finance Lini Verawaty finance@indonesiaexpat.biz

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Edo Frese

Contributors Polly Christensen Shoeb Kagda Kate Paradis Leonard Penny Rinka Perez May Tien Kenneth Yeung

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Feature Story

Meet The Exiles – Jakarta’s Favourite Expat Band You can find this group of enthusiastic amateur musicians representing six countries playing for fun at venues around Jakarta most weekends. We caught up with them to find out what makes them tick and ask them about their favourite foods from their native lands and from Indonesia.

BY LEONARD PENNY

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he Exiles can trace their roots back to the end of 2009 when the first line-up, then known as FUBAR, started rehearsing for a New Year’s Eve show at Aphrodite Club Rasuna in Jakarta. Since then the line-up has been through many changes, but three original members of the band remain.

Today the band consists of Kate Paradis from Canada on drums, David Ray from Australia on bass, Marcel Heilijgers from the Netherlands on lead guitar, Dan McNally from the US on guitar and vocals, Mikee Sadler from the UK/Philippines on vocals and Eamonn Sadler from the UK on guitar and vocals. The repertoire is mostly songs that pass the “pubbability” test, meaning the band plays anything they like that they think audiences will love to hear. David Bowie, Snow Patrol, The Stereophonics and similar artists feature prominently on the list but there are always a few surprises.

To book The Exiles for your function, send an email to theexilesjakarta@gmail.com The Exiles on their favourite foods from their home countries and Indonesia:

Cheese curds are the differentiator. Curds are solid pieces of curdled milk. It’s not a strong cheese taste, very mild. The texture is a little rubbery and squeaky. They can’t yet be found in Jakarta – anyone out there making their own? Imposters use grated mozzarella cheese, which melts too fast and creates a mess of stringy gravy. Partially melted curds, hot beef gravy, and crisp fries are essential for the perfect poutine.

My favourite Indonesian food? Crispy ayam betutu with copious amounts of fresh sambal!

Kate Paradis Drums Poutine from Quebec, Canada. The classic poutine consists of hot and crispy French fries, fresh squeaky cheese curds and hot velvety brown beef gravy. Many restaurants worldwide attempt to replicate the dish but most fail.

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Marcel Heilijgers Lead Guitar

Opinions will differ surely, but the Netherlands is not really known for its exemplary cuisine in my view. People in the Netherlands would tend to go for Italian or French on a dinner date, but rarely Dutch.

If you do invite someone and "go Dutch" it is mainly to ensure that the person you are inviting will actually pay for their own meal. When in NL chances are high you will run into a stall selling patat – ­ deepfried potatoes aka French fries in some parts of the world, normally served with a thick blob of mayonnaise. Actually quite a few Dutch dishes involve finding leftover meat, cheese, potatoes, anything really… and chucking it in hot oil. My favourite Dutch deep-fry food would be Bitterballen.

Until today it is still a total mystery as to what is inside these, but as it is deep-fried it tastes pretty good. Bitterballen are great with some mustard at the side and a cold drink to go with it.

In terms of Indonesian food I generally like most of it. The best way to get a taste of it all is through a Rijsttafel ‘rice table’ which is actually a Dutch way of serving dozens of Indonesian dishes from all over the archipelago on one big table. At Indonesian restaurants in the Netherlands Rijsttafel is very common, but only one or two restaurants in Jakarta offer this which is a pity as it is actually the best way to get a taste of it all.

Dan McNally Guitar and Vocals The US is known for many things, but fine cuisine is not one of them. But we have some great food south of the border that has thankfully made its way through to the US and has won the hearts of many.

My favorite “Mexi-Cali” food is classic El Pastor Street Tacos. You can’t beat spit grilled pork with the freshness of diced onions, chopped coriander and a splash of lemon. Wash it down with Modelo Especial and you are truly living.

My favourite Indonesian food is Nasi Padang Rendang. Always bungkus.

I love the way they wrap all your selections (nangka being my favourite Padang vegetable) up together with the banana leaf. It fuses all the flavours of the entire meal together as you head home to indulge.

Extra sambal ijo please!

I grew up in the Philippines eating all the weird Filipino food the whole world knows about like balut, chicken intestines and pork blood soup, but I haven't eaten Filipino food in years. I miss going to the carinderias (food stalls) to get the best local food. If I were to pick my favourite it would have to be tocino, which is sweet cured pork, and longganisa, a sweet pork sausage that tastes similar to chorizo. Filipinos normally eat these two pork dishes for breakfast with garlic fried rice and a sunny side up egg on the side.

However, after living in Indonesia since 2007, I have almost forgotten about Filipino cuisine because in my opinion, Indonesian food is the best Southeast Asian food by far and should be more famous around the world. I won't even mention the glorious rendang because I'm sure it will be many people's favourite Indonesian food. My favourite Indonesian dish otherwise would have to be Iga Bakar Sambal Ijo, which is grilled beef rib with a green chilli sauce.

David Ray Bass BBQ lamb of course. Lamb leg or shanks, in some lemongrass, garlic or possibly mint – one to two hours on a charcoal fired Webber BBQ. Never goes wrong – always just falls off the bone. Served with some great quality vegetables, breads, wines that are so easily accessible in Australia. Favourite accompaniment with the lamb is homemade hummus made using hulled tahini sesame spread, made in Australia, and available from the health food aisles at Coles or Woolies supermarkets.

Favourite food here? Hard to say, given the variety. My response is a nostalgia-driven one from my days at UGM in Yogyakarta, eating daily at a warung known as “bunbin” (a shortened version of kebun binatang or zoo), located between Fakultas Sastra and Ekonomi (literature and economics faculties). I spent so much of my time just hanging out there, meeting interesting students from all corners of the archipelago, eating bakso, es teler and the occasional satay. This is street food of course. Nothing fancy, but tasty and (importantly for students with little money) very cheap.

Mikee Sadler Vocals

Eamonn Sadler Guitar and Vocals Whenever I head home to the UK my first stop is at the nearest “greasy spoon” café.

These are very working class cafes that pay no attention to ambience or aesthetics but rather focus on serving the best of all the famous and traditional “English breakfast” items. I always order fried eggs, sausages, baked beans, mushrooms, fried tomatoes and chips (or “French fries” if I feel like getting punched in the face) with toast and a cup of tea. If you see hash browns you’re in the wrong place. Absolute heaven, and, even though the English breakfast has been popping up on menus all around the world over recent decades, it never tastes quite the same as it does when you eat it with greasy utensils off a cracked plate on a formica topped table sitting on a hard wooden chair on grubby linoleum floor.

I could not survive in Indonesia without Nasi Padang, in particular beef rendang.

Served with kangkung, boiled eggs, green chilli paste and rice bathed in kuah, the delicious chicken sauce. I often go to the warung on the corner of my street and buy all the beef rendang they have, eat one portion (maybe two) and freeze the rest for future gorging. It tastes even better after a few weeks in the freezer!

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Business KO M UN AL 8 8

Sustainability is Good for Business this program. Though there was some initial pushback from staff and customers, eventually this became an accepted norm. Komunal 88 managed to successfully change consumer behaviour in their café.

Zero Waste to Landfill Komunal 88 is also a zero waste to landfill business. They work with Indonesian social enterprise Waste4Change (www.waste4change. com), which collects separated trash, organics, and recyclables on a daily basis. Waste4Change then further separates plastics, aluminium and glass, and sells the raw materials to producers and other organisations. The trucks picking up these materials have spare capacity, so there is opportunity for other Kemang businesses to join the program and reduce their own contribution to Jakarta landfills while maximising the efficiency of the trucks.

BY KATE PARADIS

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ccording to a University of Georgia study of 192 countries, Indonesia ranked second in the world for mismanaged plastic waste, following China. According to the study, 1.3 million metric tons of Indonesia’s plastic waste ends up in the ocean. How much plastic do you dispose of each day? How many water cups and straws do you see littered across the coastline and in rivers? How much excess packaging have you seen on motorcycle food deliveries?

The carbon footprint of bottled water alone is enormous. Aqua as an example, uses trucks (not trains) to deliver bottled water across Indonesia. Bottles are often reused, but the vast majority of that plastic ends up in the ocean. Indonesia’s waste disposal problem seems like an insurmountable challenge, but we must work towards progress and support those organisations at the forefront of positive change.

We as consumers vote on sustainability every day with our buying decisions.

We have the power to shift market demand if we support companies that are doing the right thing. May I suggest stopping in at Komunal 88 to vote with your dollars on local sustainability initiatives? This vibrant café restaurant is located in Kemang on Ampera Raya.

It is celebrating a brand new chef and is focused on continuous improvement of their sustainability efforts.

JC Blachere, owner of Komunal 88 and conscious environmentalist, goes the extra mile to reduce his restaurant’s carbon footprint. He installed a reverseosmosis water filtration system that eliminates the requirement for bottled water. Bottled sparkling and still water is served in sterilised, reusable glass bottles. The clean water is also run through the pipes and tested regularly,

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so you can actually drink the water from the tap! As for plumbing, instead of PVC pipe, cast iron and galvanised steel is used. The restaurant also makes its own general-purpose cleaning products from electrolysed saltwater.

For superior food sanitation standards to be upheld, this product cannot be used in the kitchen, but for tables and restrooms it is a great alternative that reduces water consumption and uses fewer harmful chemicals.

Blachere noted in order to create a lasting difference in the environment, we need to change our throw-away, one-time-use habits as well. This behaviour causes unnecessary waste and contributes to the demise of our oceans. Biodegradable takeout containers for example, are a seemingly great concept, but unless steps are taken to aid biodegradation, they will still clog up landfills and waterways.

Instead, Blachere implemented a reusable takeout container program. If you want food for takeaway you simply pay a deposit on a steel container and return it to the restaurant for a full refund next time. Imagine the waste reduction if more restaurants started

Social Environment Other social enterprises have been welcomed to showcase and sell their products free of charge in the restaurant. This act of goodwill promotes sustainability and social awareness in the community. Some enterprises currently supported and on display are: · Ffrash: Non-profit organisation that educates and trains street children to create stylish products out of trash. (www.facebook.com/Ffrash) · Startic: Upcycled cement bags morphed into beautiful fashion forward Indonesia-specific bags and laptop cases. (www.startic.co/about-us) · I Want to Smell The Perfume: Provides women with education and training to fight against inequality. (www.smelltheperfume.com)

How About the Food?

Creating dishes with the freshest ingredients is important to owner Blachere and new Executive Chef Angelo. Their strategy is to purchase environmentally-conscious products that taste the freshest. Processed items are avoided and condiments

We as consumers vote on sustainability every day with our buying decisions. We have the power to shift market demand if we support companies that are doing the right thing.

like ketchup are made in-house. These practices promote sustainability of the business by maintaining a highquality product which leads to satisfied returning customers.

The cafe is also part of Signing Blue, a WWF initiative that promotes responsible marine tourism in Indonesia. It covers a broad scope of seafood sustainability that covers workplace culture, gender equality, social protections, and energy consumption throughout the entire supply chain. Signing Blue carries out annual audits to certify, rate, and give recommendations for improvement to participating restaurants.

Sustainability and Profitability The argument that sustainability efforts cost too much money is dying fast and hard. Companies worldwide, including large corporations that have dedicated their efforts to being more sustainable have become more profitable. The “triple-bottom-line” approach to business places importance on social responsibility, economic value and environmental impact, as opposed to focusing solely on immediate financial profits.

For Komunal 88, water filtration systems and sustainable seafood sourcing are expensive upfront costs, yet the strong community of passionate and returning customers has made the business thrive. Blachere says “Doing what feels right is good for business”.

Check out their website for new menu additions and special upcoming events.

Komunal 88 Ampera Six Commercial Building Jalan Ampera Raya 5-6 Pasar Minggu , Jakarta Selatan Phone : +62-21 719 4673 Email : komunal88@ptkm.biz Website: www.komunal88.com

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Business Profile

An Economy Ripe for Disruption

“Some conglomerates have ventured into e-commerce with mid-term profit and return expectations. However, large-scale eCommerce platforms are incredibly cash intensive in order to achieve scale and network effects and take a long time to build cash value. Amazon for example lost money for a decade before it became profitable.”

“Furthermore, tech founders build their businesses as owners and are encouraged by venture capitalists to go for market leadership. Such teams can make bolder bets and execute more quickly and aggressively than hired executives,” he adds.

BY SHOEB KAGDA

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ndonesia is undergoing rapid change and the rise of new technopreneurs is accelerating that change. New industries enabled by technology are disrupting existing players and creating opportunities for a fresh breed of entrepreneurs.

Projecting forward, Indonesia has the potential to become the largest digital economy in Southeast Asia. A recent study commissioned by Temasek Holdings and Google noted that Indonesia’s internet usage is growing by 19 percent per year. If this trend continues, Indonesia will have 215 million internet users by 2020.

Strong internet connection and reach will act as a tremendous boost for the country’s digital economy.

E-commerce transactions already account for 36 percent of total online transactions and online retail could be worth as much as US$80 billion by 2025.

The digital revolution could add as much as US$150 billion annually by 2025 to Indonesia’s trillion dollar economy. McKinsey & Co estimates that the manufacturing sector can earn an additional US$34 billion from digitalising its operations over the next decade while mining and agriculture could see up to US$15 billion and US$11 billion in additional revenues respectively.

This is the playground for investors and entrepreneurs such as Pandu Shahrir, Managing Partner of Indies Capital, and Adrian Li, Founder and Managing Partner of Convergence Ventures. Both young men, who are Stanford GSB graduates, have done well by betting big on Indonesia’s digital economy and are helping support rising technopreneurs.

“The key opportunity for investors in Indonesia’s digital economy is any business that taps the young generation,” Pandu tells the Indonesia Economic Forum in an exclusive interview. “The next five years will be the most interesting time for Indonesia as we will see a shift in the business landscape.”

He notes that entrepreneurs such as Nadiem Makarim, Founder of Go-Jek and William Tanuwijaya, Founder of online marketplace Tokopedia were not household names a few years back. However, the fact that in just a few years the businesses they manage have become two of the country’s largest online businesses is testament to the potential and opportunity offered by Indonesia.

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“Any investor coming into Indonesia has to be wide eyed and recognise the risks,” noted Pandu. But he adds that industries such as education, healthcare, logistics and entertainment are ripe for disruption.

“The country will witness great change in the coming years and the top 30 business groups today may not be around over the next decade,” he says.

“My business is financing all these new businesses to grow and look at the second and third generation of the large family businesses.”

Pandu is also chairman of Garena, a consumer internet platform provider based in Singapore.

He joined the online shopping and gaming company which is run by two friends he went to school with at Stanford University in 2009 and has raised more than US$1.5 billion over the years.

“My business is to finance all these new businesses, so they can grow,” Pandu said. “I work with many of the children of business families to gauge how they see the world. It is easy to recognise that there will be change but it is difficult to implement that change.”

He noted that companies such as Warung Pintar, which is disrupting traditional mom and pop shops, and EV Hive, a coworking space outfit, are the future.

“Basically, investors should look at any business or industry that is tech enabled. Industries such as education, healthcare, logistics are ripe for disruption as delivery can be digitalised. There will be a unicorn coming from these sectors in the near future,” he declared.

OPEN MARKET Adrian Li, Founder and Managing Partner of Convergence Ventures is also bullish on Indonesia’s digital economy. The country has critical mass and none of the large business conglomerates have been able to dominate this sector.

“None of the tech companies are controlled by the family businesses,” he says. “Mobile internet technology has empowered a new generation of entrepreneurs to emerge and create substantial businesses.” His explanation as to why the conglomerates have not been successful in the tech sector is a classic example of “innovator’s dilemma” where market leaders and incumbents are often set up to fail and start ups and innovators are able to gain significant market share.

Industries he is investing in include e-commerce, financial technology, media & entertainment and enabling technologies that underpin the internet ecosystem such as advertising technologies, payment systems and big data.

“Each of these sectors has traditional companies which are valued in the billions of dollars but are susceptible to disruption by digital first ventures that can operate with more efficiency and ever greater reach,” Li notes. “However, it is important to bear in mind, Indonesia is an open market and local firms have to compete with the global giants such as Facebook and Google. Hence it is important to invest into verticals which require strong on the ground execution and localisation. Such businesses have the potential to become large defensible local winners but are also attractive targets for global businesses to acquire to enter the market.”

Convergence Ventures is a US$30 million fund that has invested in each of these verticals including companies like Salestock in female fashion, Payfazz in financial technology, and M17, a live streaming medium and local point of sale system MokaPos. Convergence Ventures has also invested in GoRework, a coworking space company that is growing fast. Starting just last year Go-Rework now manages over 5,000 square meters in five locations in Jakarta’s CBD with another five locations in the pipeline to be launched by June.

“The office industry is ripe to be disrupted,” he notes, “while everything about how we work and do business has changed, offices themselves have remained the same. Go-Rework is building the office for the digital age and enhancing value for its members through creating a business community platform.

Indonesia is ripe for disruption. The digital economy is poised to take off but challenges remain, particularly in upgrading infrastructure and the lack of IT talent. These challenges are however seen as opportunities that are driving a new breed of technopreneurs to create and grow new businesses.

With investors ready to fund them, a new ecosystem is in the making.

This article was prepared by Indonesian Economic Forum

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Culture N AS I TU M PE N G

Traditional and Delicious

BY SADS RELDAS “Tradition” is a word you hear a lot when you live in Indonesia. Traditional dances, traditional clothing and traditional ceremonies etc are all important in everyday life. Even the most modern of young people will take part in traditional ceremonies marking special occasions without thinking twice, especially those connected with family and work.

In Java, (Indonesia’s largest and most populous island), Madura (an island off the northeast coast of Java) and in Sunda (an area in the west of Java) and many other parts of Indonesia, a very traditional ceremony called a selamatan takes place before every special occasion, whether it be for family, such as a wedding or a birth, or for the blessing of a new office or any other special occasion. The ceremony is a kind of thanksgiving, but it is also a sign of the unity of the people taking part. People also believe that by taking part they receive the protection and blessing of God. Selamat in Javanese means “safe from harm” and literally the ceremony seeks God’s protection of the individual, the family or the organisation concerned.

At every selamatan a dish called nasi tumpeng is served, and as you would expect, every part of the dish has special and deeply traditional meaning.

The tall rice cone at the centre of the dish, usually made of yellow rice, represents the mountains and volcanoes of Indonesia, but originally Mount Mahameru as the home of the hyang, the spirit of Indonesian ancestors, and the hindu Gods. Some say the cone is also a phallic representation of the male anatomy signifying fertility. The yellow colour of the rice signifies wealth and virtue. The dish has now been fully absorbed into Indonesia’s modern Muslim culture and the overall theme is one of gratitude towards God.

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The Seven Side Dishes Surrounding the rice cone there are always seven side dishes.

In the Javanese language “seven” is pitu, and this has been associated to pitulungan or pertolongan which mean “help” in modern Indonesian. Therefore the seven dishes represent the helping hands of God. Chicken This is one of the most important elements of the nasi tumpeng. The chicken should be male and cooked in coconut milk and yellow spices, a dish called ayam bekakak.

The rooster represents male arrogance, pride, infidelity and the neglect of family. Eating the rooster is believed to rid men of these negative qualities.

Anchovies Fried with nuts, spices and chillies, the anchovies are a delicious accompaniment to the nasi tumpeng. Because they live together in large schools, they represent social and family harmony.

Boiled eggs Boiled eggs symbolise the need for planning and order in life, just as cooking the perfect boiled egg requires proper planning and execution. Since eggs are always similar in size and shape, they also underline the fact that we are all essentially born the same and it is only our actions and devotion to God that can distinguish us.

Vegetables All of the vegetables and spices served with the nasi tumpeng also have special meaning and significance.

Mixed with water to form a dish known as urap, beansprouts, long beans, water spinach, spinach, shallots, chilis, breadnuts, spices and grated coconut are all included for specific reasons:

• Beansprouts represent the need for constant growth.

• Long beans represent planning and vision.

• Water spinach is translated into Indonesian as kangkung, which is similar to the Javanese word jinangkung which means “to protect”.

• Spinach translates into Indonesian as bayam, which is similar to the Javanese word ayem which means “peaceful”.

• Shallots represent wise judgement.

• Red chilli, placed on top of the rice cone, represents fire, and the light and warmth it provides, things human beings cannot live without.

• Breadnuts are called kluwih in Indonesian, which is similar to the word linuwih in Javanese, which means “having advantage over others”.

• Grated coconut and spices are known as urap in Indonesian, similar to the word urip in Javanese, which relates to a prosperous life.

If you are fortunate enough to be invited to a selamatan you will now know the significance of each and every element of the dish. At the beginning of the proceedings, the senior person present will be invited to break the rice cone before everyone else is served – and in certain circumstances, this might be you!

Remember to be respectful and polite to everyone, especially to those older than you. Never use your left hand for anything, especially eating or offering something to, or touching, another person. Don’t stand with your hands on your hips or use any other stance that can be mistaken for arrogance, and never show the soles of your feet when you sit. Even after you have been served food or drink, wait to be invited twice before eating or drinking, and never empty your glass – it suggests you want some more.

Observe these simple rules and you experience Indonesia at its very best!

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Scams in the City

Kenneth Yeung is a Jakarta-based editor

Hatching Hoaxes From claims of fake eggs to shoving eggs where they don’t belong, Indonesia has no shortage of fowl shenanigans.

BY KENNETH YEUNG

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ndonesia made international tabloid headlines a few weeks ago when it was reported that a teenage boy from South Sulawesi province had laid 20 eggs over the past two years.

British tabloids reported that 14-year-old Akmal had “left doctors baffled after laying an egg in front of them”. Some Indonesian media coverage was worse, speculating it was a miracle that could not be explained.

The truth was just sad and gross. Police and doctors concluded the boy was suffering from emotional, behavioural and mental disorders, as he had been inserting chicken eggs up his rectum.

Akmal is not the first person in Indonesia to seek attention by pretending to have the ability to conceive and lay eggs.

In June 2014, a 29-year-old woman named Sandra Rauf from North Sulawesi was reported to have “given birth” to five eggs.

She claimed to have suffered stomach pains and thought she was pregnant, only for the five blood-smeared eggs to emerge from her body. A stray chicken leg also came out. Sandra then instructed her husband to prepare some baby clothes, claiming the eggs would hatch into children.

Local media lapped it up, suggesting it was a magical occurrence. Police were smarter.

They said Sandra, who works as a dukun (shaman) and mystical healer, had wrapped the eggs inside thin plastic and tissue paper before inserting them into her vagina while menstruating. Why did she do it? Police said she sought the publicity to attract more clients.

A few months later, in November 2014, a 62-year-old man in North Jakarta, Engkong Naim alias Sinin, made the news for claiming he had been laying eggs from his anus since 1998. Police and health officials concluded the act was a scam targeting gullible members of the public, who paid to look at Sinin and his collection of chicken eggs.

In June 2015, 12-year-old Akmal first claimed to have laid eggs. Video footage of him appearing to remove an egg from his anus attracted dozens of curious people to visit his house in Gowa regency, as if a miracle had occurred.

An x-ray taken at Syech Yusuf General Hospital showed an egg-like object in the boy’s colon. At the time, doctors speculated the “egg” might be due to calcification. Egglike objects have been found in some people.

They are not eggs but are technically known as peritoneal loose bodies. The peritoneum is a transparent membrane that lines the

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abdominal cavity. If a small piece of fat becomes detached there, it can calcify and grow over time. But the eggs coming from Akmal were genuine chicken eggs. The only possible explanation was that he or someone else was putting them up his rectum.

When Akmal repeated the stunt in February 2018, doctors were neither baffled nor stunned. They suspected the eggs had been inserted. Some highly disturbing footage has been uploaded to YouTube, showing one egg being defecated by the boy. The Women and Children's Protection Unit of Gowa Police conducted an investigation and in March announced Akmal was suffering psychiatric disorders, saying “his intellectual condition is incompatible with his age”.

Police appealed to the public to stop speculating the eggs were created by magic or witchcraft, as it is medically impossible for a human to conceive a chicken egg.

Fake Eggs Hoax While the eggs coming from the unfortunate boy were real, considerable attention has been given to the issue of fake eggs in Indonesia. Stupid people and lazy journalists have long perpetuated rumours of synthetic eggs being made in China and sold in Indonesia. Online articles and videos warning of fake eggs and how to spot them are routinely recycled.

While it doesn’t hurt to check the quality of our food, it’s foolish to share unverified, unsourced warnings via social media.

A 49-year-old Jakarta man named Syahroni B. Daud in March received a message in a WhatsApp group, instructing people how to identify fake eggs. When his son brought home some eggs from the city’s Johar Baru

It’s dangerous when people can no longer distinguish fact from fiction, and even more dangerous when they try to share their stupidity through the media. market, Syahroni cracked some open and assumed they must be fake. Why? The whites didn’t seem sticky enough, the yolks could be separated from the whites and the shells looked plastic.

Syahroni later went to the market to conduct some tests on eggs. He cracked open a few and played with the whites, yolks and shells, declaring them to be fake. His antics were filmed, uploaded to YouTube and went viral. His brown Islamic robe, his white Islamic cap and his wispy beard seemed to imbue him with authority.

Police and health authorities then had to assure the public that eggs being sold in Jakarta are not synthetic. They explained old eggs have the characteristics of those displayed by Syahroni, and that it would be financially unfeasible to make bogus eggs.

Police managed to track down Syahroni and had him issue a public apology on March 27.

In other cities, police and health authorities have also quashed reports of fake eggs over the past year. But unsubstantiated claims continue. In late January, an Indonesian woman posted a long rant on Facebook, insisting she had unwittingly purchased a fake egg from a food stall. When she cracked the egg, she thought the shell’s

membrane was thicker than usual and it smelled different – therefore it must be fake. She went on to blame evil communists for making the egg. Her post was soon shared more than 46,000 times. An online newspaper reported on her post and agreed the egg was not genuine.

It’s dangerous when people can no longer distinguish fact from fiction, and even more dangerous when they try to share their stupidity through the media.

Anyway, I should warn you that we are all in a situation of extreme peril. Our planet is scheduled to be destroyed by aliens to make way for a hyperspace bypass. It must be true because I read about it in a book called The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Sure, the book may be fiction, but it was written by a graduate of Cambridge University, so we cannot let our guard down.

And another thing, if you want to buy fake eggs in Jakarta, then go to the Senen or Asemka wholesale toy markets and ask for splat toys. These are plastic tomatoes, eggs and rats that stretch or splatter when thrown on surfaces before regaining their original shape. They’re great fun, apart from when they leave stains or when they burst.

Just don’t put them where they don’t belong.

Worthy Causes

Rachel House

B.A.T.S. (Bar and Restaurant at the Shangri-La) Brings New York Underground Vibes to the Bustling City of Jakarta Located on the first floor of Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta, B.A.T.S. reflects the ambience of the Big Apple at night by using decorative touches, such as nailed metal ceilings and raw red bricks that dominate the walls.

B.A.T.S. also features a sports bar as a preferred venue for watching various sport games.

The relaxing and casual feeling created at the bar and the service team makes B.A.T.S. a favourite hang-out – from after office hours to the weekend nights. Guests may enjoy the acoustic band performance at the dinnertime, then continue with inimitable drinks while the international resident band is always ready to rock and groove the night.

Signature drinks that are recommended to try are the long drinks Urban B.A.T.S. and cocktails Screwdriver.

B.A.T.S. offers guests a lively dining and hang-out venue. It is well known for its large portions of food, from starters to desserts. For steak aficionados, B.A.T.S. offers guests a variety of generous-sized steaks.

Special beef types, such as Wagyu beef with high marbling, grain-fed beef and prime beef, are available to choose.

Guests who have a big appetite are recommended to try the burger called the Big Cheese, which contains a double patty weighing 300 grams of meat. Pizza lovers may find it amusing to try the B.A.T.S. one metre pizza with choice of toppings.

Another classic, but popular dish at B.A.T.S. is the Sizzling Fajitas containing beef or chicken fajitas served on a hot sizzling plate with four tortillas. Guests may unleash their creativity in eating the fajitas by combining guacamole, tomatoes, corn and onion in the way they like.

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he dream to build a safe haven to care for children with life-limiting conditions marked the launch of Rachel House and the plans for building Indonesia’s first purpose-built children’s hospice. The service was piloted as a threebed inpatient hospice, however, Rachel House heard the pleas of children wanting to stay home to be close to their family and friends. That’s when their nurses traded their uniforms for helmets and jackets to travel the crowded streets of Jakarta to reach these children in their homes.

Rachel House provides specialised medical care (known as palliative care) to children from marginalised communities living with serious illnesses such as cancer and HIV AIDS. Established in 2006, they have pioneered palliative care in Indonesia. Driven by the belief that no child should ever have to live or die in pain, their highly-skilled nurses provide home-based care to children from some of the most marginalised communities in Jakarta, free of charge. They also educate and equip medical professionals and local communities with palliative care skills and knowledge to provide care for those in desperate need.

Twelve years and more than 500 children later, Rachel House is now an acknowledged leader in home-based pediatric palliative care service in Jakarta. Their nurses have

For guests who prefer an early night’s start and light entertainment after office hours, the B.A.T.S. Happy Hour offers special beverages from 5 to 8 p.m. Oversized portions of B.A.T.S. food is available for dinner from 6 to 10 p.m. For more information and for reservations, guests may call (62 21) 2922 9999 or send an email to fbreservation.slj@shangri-la.com. become the “model” nurses invited to share their knowledge at major hospitals and nursing faculties, and participate in difficult case discussions at some of the largest national referral hospitals in Indonesia.

In addition to palliative care services, Rachel House also offers quality education programs, practical training and mentoring for health professionals across a variety of patient care settings. They also work closely with organisations and professionals that provide services to patient’s whose lives are threatened by an illness. This includes national and district hospitals, puskesmas and university nursing schools.

Training is provided through the collective knowledge and experience of leaders and specialists in the field including the Rachel House senior Registered Nurses, local Indonesia palliative care specialists, and visiting palliative care experts from Australia, Singapore, New Zealand, India, and South Africa.

For more information on how to donate, become a partner or volunteer, visit www.rachel-house.org

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Expat Advice

Rinka Perez is “The Expat Housewife of Jakarta”, sharing her experiences of living in “The Big Durian” as an expat mother of three.

Protecting Your Children against Illnesses in Indonesia

BY RINKA PEREZ

I

went through a stage where my children were constantly sick and down with some kind of bug. Initially I thought the causes for their ill health were environmental, and as an expat mother, I felt guilty for exposing my children to a foreign country that could potentially be harming their health. So I did some research, spoke to several doctors and asked my friends from around the world about their experiences with childhood illnesses.

I concluded that what we experienced was normal. They all suffered from the same kind of illnesses.

The simple fact is children under the age of six develop at least six to eight colds per year.

On top of this, children are more susceptible to other common childhood illnesses such as coughs, viruses and stomach bugs because their immune systems are not yet developed.

With three children close in age and attending preschool, the amount of illnesses going through our household is multiplied because they are constantly passing their bugs to each other, sometimes without recovering from the previous one!

With this information, I tried to focus my energy on preventative methods for keeping our family healthy and stopped trying to point the blame. Here are some tips on protecting your family from illness: Vaccinations Most expat parents choose to vaccinate their children according to their home country’s schedule, however you may need to get additional vaccinations that are relevant to Indonesia only.

As parents we sometimes lose focus on our own health and forget our own vaccinations.

It is recommended that you discuss with your doctor what vaccinations are required for everyone in your household. It’s also a good idea to discuss your travel plans with your doctor, in case you may require additional vaccinations for the country of destination.

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The following are the recommended vaccinations for individuals who are residing in Indonesia long term: · The annual flu shot, both southern and northern hemisphere, if you are travelling or exposed to those who travel to those areas. · Typhoid · Rabies · Hepatitis A, B · Japanese Encephalitis Household staff My family’s health extends to our household staff too. We provide our household staff with a monthly contribution towards the Government funded health insurance scheme JKN (Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional).

We also allocate an additional month’s worth of salary for their yearly medical allowance. If a staff member needs to see a doctor or dentist outside of the insurance scheme, they can use money from their medical allowance. I try to ensure that my staff work reasonable hours and I allow them time to rest if they are unwell. This also means giving them vacation and time off work, even if they are adamant that they want to work extra hours for overtime.

I send my long-term staff members on yearly health checks and have reviewed their vaccinations ensuring that we are covered against the right diseases.

Vitamins After an illness or dosage of antibiotics, I give my children probiotics and zinc for an immunity boost. They also take this during vacation for added protection (zinc should not be taken continuously). We’ve also started using local raw honey for healing and medicinal purposes (ensure it is from a trustworthy source).

Healthy Diet We try to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet that is mostly vegetables and low in sugar and salt. The best way to do this is simply cooking your own food at home.

I send my long-term staff members on yearly health checks and have reviewed their vaccinations ensuring that we are covered against the right diseases.

One of the best outcomes from living in Indonesia is that I have eliminated most of the unhealthy foods that I previously consumed in my home country that were mainly convenient, processed, and packaged.

This is purely because they are difficult to find here! This restriction has forced me to cook my own alternative or substitute with healthier options.

I buy fruit and vegetables from local street markets because I find they offer the freshest produce. I also purchase fresh coconut water from street vendors for our whole family to drink daily, instead of juices and soft drinks (Note: limit coconut water to only one glass or 200mls and less for young children due to the high potassium levels).

my children indoors, making them easily agitated. I observed that they wanted the iPad or TV when they were tired. So instead of screen time, I now start their bedtime early and engage in winding down activities such as reading or bathing.

I’ve also started to relax more as a parent by allowing my children to be bored and giving them the freedom to simply be. This means that they don’t need to be constantly engaged or placed into planned classes such as school holiday camps. Although it can be more stressful for me, it teaches them to slow down and enjoy their time together with creative play.

I check for MSG, which is hidden in most processed food such as chips, sauces and children’s snacks (In Indonesian MSG is called mononatrium glutamat, dinatrium inosinat and guanilat).

Other things…

We purchased an air purifier for our kid’s room, and started using essential oils.

I strictly enforce good hygiene such as washing hands for everyone and have placed hand sanitisers in our car, kitchen and bathrooms.

When my children were babies I avoided all baby food sold at supermarkets because the local brands usually contained sugar. The imported and organic ones weren’t fresh and sat on the shelves for months. I found that making my own baby food at home was the easiest option.

The final thing that I have changed about our time here in Indonesia is trying to make sure that we take care of our emotional health. For us, we found that having short day trips or weekends away from the city revitalised us and helped our mental health.

Fresh air is so refreshing!

Exercise and time outdoors I try to encourage lots of outdoor, active play with my children and expose them to the sun for a daily dose of vitamin D (building natural immunity). I have significantly cut down on their screen time because I found that it was too addictive and kept

Seek advice Finally, find a good family doctor who is engaging and invested in your family’s health. It’s important to have someone who you trust to talk to and discuss your health concerns.

Travel

British-born Polly Christensen is a documentary film maker, features writer and environmentalist. She can be contacted at www.madefromstardust.com

Exploring Sungai Kapuas

COURTESY OF IDN TIMES

BY POLLY CHRISTENSEN

I

ndonesia’s longest river, the Kapuas in Kalimantan, begins in the foothills of the Muller Mountain Range, snakes for 1,143km, and then flows west into the South China Sea, creating an extended marshy delta along the way.

It passes through some of Kalimantan's oldest longhouse communities, such as Danau Sentarum and Bukit Raya.

Jungle trekking can be enjoyed in the upper areas of the Kapuas River, including a climb of Mount Kelam.

Near the northern shore of the Kapuas River lies a system of lakes which are connected by numerous channels. When the monthly precipitation exceeds about 300mm, the river overflows its banks, diverting much of its water to the lakes and forming a single volume of water. This outflow promotes fish migration from the river to the lakes for spawning.

About 300 species of fish have been identified in the river basin, of which 234 are of high economical value. Among the economically important species are edible fish such as Pangasius catfish, giant gourami, kissing gourami, snakeheads and large barbs; as well as species from the aquarium trade such as the super red arowana and rasboras. Because of overfishing and habitat degradation, several species are threatened. Apart from fish, there are numerous crabs, prawns, water striders and other aquatic insects. Abundant fruits and seeds enter the river after falling from large trees which bend over its waters. Otters and crocodiles are common in the Kapuas River, but sadly, frogs are on the decline.

Mountains in the upper Kapuas include Betung, Uluselua, Harung and Piabung. About 800 km upstream lies Putussibau, the last small town which can be reached by large boats.

From there only smaller boats can take tourists further to the last village, Tanjung Lokan. It takes approximately two days to reach the Upper Kapuas River, or one day by chartered speedboat. The delta is located west-southwest

Pontianak distinguishes itself as the only city in the world that sits on the imaginary line called the equator, separating the earth’s northern and southern hemispheres.

of Pontianak, the capital of West Kalimantan province.

Pontianak has houses built over the waterline, connected to each other by wooden bridges. Many tourists are drawn to local villages, a Dayak longhouse is found at Melapi village, and stone axes from prehistoric times can be seen in Naga Belang.

The term “Dayak people” includes over 200 riverine and hill-dwelling ethnic subgroups, located principally in the central and southern interior, each with its own dialect, customs, laws, territory and culture. Kalimantan tour specialists offer Dayak Longhouse Tours for those who want to experience indigenous cultures. They trek deeper into the forest for an immersive, overnight stay with a local family in their traditional longhouse. From Bengkayang, you can travel into the hinterland and meet the Bekati (Dayak) people.

The indigenous Dayak settlements of Kalimantan warmly welcome guests and it’s an ideal way to experience this ancient culture of traditional medicine, intricate body tattoos and heavy ear adornments, and to experience waterfalls surrounded by dramatic scenery. An inscribed stone is found in the Nangmahap district, near Pahit, on the Tekaret river. It is believed to date from the fifth century and bears a relief of the “phallus symbol” as well as inscriptions in Palawa script, proclaiming some of the tenets of Buddhism.

The historical tomb Juang Mandor is another historic site in the sub-district of Mandor, Landak District. The location was a place of slaughter – approximately 21,000 people died at the hands of Japanese soldiers between 1943 and 1944.

On the way back to Pontianak rice paddies and plantations

are abundant. Rubber, rice and other agricultural products are important smallholder crops and a source of rural income in the area.

Pontianak is the capital city of West Kalimantan province and this is where tourists can find the Equatorial Monument. Pontianak distinguishes itself as the only city in the world that sits on the imaginary line called the equator, separating the earth's northern and southern hemispheres.

Standing just two miles north of the city centre the monument was first marked by an arrow on a pole by a Dutch geographer in 1928. Due to constant global shift, the monument no longer lies on the exact line of the equator.

In 2005, the true equatorial line was recorded a short distance south and, according to GPS readings, the line continues to move south. Despite this, the city of Pontianak holds a party each year during the time of the spring and autumn solstices as the “shadowless sun” reaches its zenith on the Vernal Equinox (March 21 to 23), and the Autumnal Equinox (September 21 to 23).

Alun-Alun Kapuas Park is a pleasant place to have a cooling drink at the end of your journey. This popular city park along the Kapuas River features esplanades around a monumental central fountain. This is a great spot for viewing the river or just for a picnic with your family as it livens up in the cool of the evening. In the afternoon around 5pm, the food vendors start to arrive and set out their stalls. Check out the food stalls or cruise up and down the river while people-watching. Try out one last experience at the mouth of Kapuas River at nightfall by taking a fun motorboat ride and having dinner on board. The colourful neon bulbs adorning the top of the motorboat illuminate your Sungai Kapuas experience.

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SNA Media Club Column

Indonesia Expat and Singapore National Academy are joining forces to provide insightful articles on Surabaya. The young student journalists in the SNA Media Club get to learn valuable writing techniques with the help of the editorial staff at Indonesia Expat.

Interesting Landmarks in Madura

JEMBATAN SURAMADU (COURTESY OF POLITIKTODAY.COM)

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Bukit Jaddih

ou’ve ventured to the historical city of Surabaya.

Are you confused about where to go? Well, we have an excellent suggestion for you. Madura is a great destination to explore in East Java. It is located beside Surabaya and is connected to Surabaya by the longest bridge in Indonesia – the Suramadu Bridge.

It has numerous remarkable landmarks which are perfect for tourists and photographers alike.

Bukit Jaddih is a large hill rich in limestone. It is 500 hectares wide and is located near three villages: Jaddih, Rabasan, and Parseh. The limestone is arranged perfectly, making it very photogenic and attractive.

In the middle of the vast green hill, there is a natural reservoir, named Aeng Goweh Pote which means “The White Cave Water”. This public swimming area was actually left behind by limestone mining. The hole later transformed into a natural body of water as rainwater collected over time. Closeby, there is a Dutch bunker which was used for storage during the Second World War.

Here are four unique places worth visiting in Madura:

Gili Labak Indonesia is widely known as a country of islands. One of the prominent islands in East Java is Gili Labak, located in the district of Madura. It was previously known as Pulau Tikus (Mouse Island) due to its tiny size. However, due its unique beauty, lush green grass and crystal clear oceans, the island was renamed Gili Labak – the Lilliputian heaven on the edge of Madura.

Since it is located in the eastern district of Madura, it takes some time and effort to reach Gili Labak. The only way to reach it is by a two-hour boat ride. Once you’ve arrived, you can proceed to the Kalianget Port by taxi and upon your arrival, you can rent a boat for about Rp500,000. The boat driver will take you around the waters of Gili Labak and Kalianget Port. The travel time is approximately two to three hours, depending on the weather conditions. Thanks to the beautiful scenery and the variety of underwater sea creatures that you can see swimming in the ocean, the time will seem to fly past. Gili Labak’s powdery white sand and calm waters make the island the perfect place to explore the sea.

GILI LABAK (COURTESY OF WISATAKULINER.COM)

Arosbaya Cretaceous Hill used to be an ordinary limestone quarry, but now it is a popular tourist attraction in Madura.

The former chiselled remains of limestone mining present unique shapes and is the reason for its rising popularity.

Not only is the sculptured limestone unique, but the colour of Arosbaya Red Crest also adds to its uniqueness.

Arosbaya Cretaceous Hill, also commonly known as Pelalangan Hill, is located in Berbeluk Village, District Arosbaya, Bangkalan, Madura. This is one of the hidden heavens in Madura and worth the effort to visit. A lot of people go there for pre-wedding photo shoots.

Jembatan Suramadu BUKIT JADDIH (COURTESY OF BERANGAN.COM)

For those who favour snorkelling, diving and other underwater activities, this place is definitely a mustvisit tourist attraction. However, you will have to bring your own equipment because there are no rental shops.

Snorkelling and diving here is very spectacular. You can swim past colourful corals, observe the different underwater plants and swim with different species of fish. As for those who like to take a peaceful stroll while taking in the breathtaking scenery, this island is just the spot for you. Take a deep breath of fresh air and feel your stress levels drop.

Indonesia expat ISSUE 212

This magnificent infrastructure, standing straight and tall, is the biggest bridge in all of Indonesia, with a recordbreaking length of 5,438m and width of 30m. Jembatan Suramadu (SURAbaya-MADUra) is the bridge connecting the two most revolutionary cities when it comes to naval trading, the cities of Surabaya and Madura. It was first officially opened for public use on June 10, 2009.

This bridge has statistically improved Madura in many ways, especially in terms of trading and economics. It has made the transport of goods more efficient because they no longer need to be sent by sea from Surabaya, thus resulting in the prosperity of what we now recognise as the modern city of Madura.

AROSBAYA (COURTESY OF INDONESIA-TOURISM.COM)

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Arosbaya

So, come on down and discover the unique landscapes of Madura. You will be rewarded with some really spectacular images of your holiday.

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Food and Drink

May Tien is a freelance writer who specializes in culinary anthropology and Asian cuisines. She has worked in the restaurant hospitality industry for many years and mentored students at Le Cordon Bleu in New Zealand.

El Asador – The Soul of South America Resides in Kemang As one journey ends, another begins. On the eve of her extended sojourn in Jakarta, our intrepid food writer May Tien discovers an impressive asador in the heart of Kemang.

A

Last Sunday was like any other; I had an event to attend during the day in Mega Kuningan and then on to meet with an old friend for dinner in Kemang. I live on the north end of Kebayoran Baru so that meant quite a bit of to-and-froing that day, and Car-Free Sunday did me no favours. By the time I made it to the dinner, I was ready to throw in the towel on life.

I needed a meal to feed my soul that evening, and I found it at El Asador.

The restaurant was warm and inviting, not unlike an open-plan, kitchen and dining room found as part of a large homestead in the Patagonian countryside. The main

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meat and we were impressed with the care our el asador at the grill took to prepare the meal. Next to our grilled meats was a pristine plate of salad, a perfect counter to the protein feast on which we were about to embark. To appreciate the meat in all of its glory, we ordered a bottle of Argentinian malbec from the wine menu. Its young, dry, rounded body complemented our meal well.

order it rare-medium rare), picañha (rump steak, very flavoursome if grilled medium rare-medium), and asado (short ribs, get this medium-medium well for the crispy and charred bits). There is also a juicy lamb chorizo with spicy kick at the end, which was outstanding.

By the time our mains arrived, the restaurant was almost at capacity. Many of the empty tables were already reserved and school-aged children were happily occupied with a foosball table in the atrium of the building whilst younger ones carried on in sight of parents at a children’s playroom across the hall. Brilliant set-up by the management; adults are able to eat and drink in peace whilst children can entertain themselves in full view from the restaurant.

We started off with an appetizer of tender, sliced lengua (beef tongue) and Russian salad. I always encourage my dining companions to try offal when dining with me. There are different grades to the kind of aromas derivative from well-cooked offal.

Personally, I love a large variety - when done well - but can also understand why anyone would demure from these off-cuts.

For the novice eater with an adventurous palate I suggest trying tongue, sweetbreads, kidney and liver. Kidney and liver can be transformed into delicious pies, patés and terrines. Not surprisingly, tongue is also a much-revered cut of beef in many old culinary traditions. It is a large muscle not unlike the shape of a whole tenderloin, only more flavoursome like brisket. It is usually cooked for a very long time to maximise tenderness.

BY MAY TIEN s many Jakartans can attest, it’s tough to get from one place to another at times and most of us would rather spend our hard-earned free time not stuck on the roads in one of the world’s most congested cities. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule such as going to a nice restaurant to meet good friends for a quick chin wag or spending time with loved ones, which cancel out going to war with any wayward mosquitoes that might be sharing a Bluebird taxi on your slog through town.

I needed a meal to feed my soul that evening, and I found it at El Asador.

dining room is situated so that almost every diner can see the large parrilla (South American style grill) that uses charcoal wood to smoke the asado (variety of barbecued meats). Red brick, dark wood and incandescent lights accentuated the homestyle ambience with wooden wagon wheels hanging substantially overhead.

It was early in the evening, and the parrilla was already raging to feed a roomful of hungry diners.

El Asador is a restaurant for meat-lovers, particularly those who enjoy beef. There is an extensive menu based on proteins cooked on the parrilla, with a strong nod to South American cuts like vacio (flank steak,

The desserts are tempting, if you have room for them. We indulged in the flan with dulce de leche as it was on the lighter side.

However, a list of different styles of waffles meant for sharing can also be found to satisfy sweet-tooth cravings.

EL ASADOR Kemang Point Building, Ground Floor, Jl. Kemang Raya, Kemang, Jakarta Business Hour: Monday – Thursday (11:00am – 12:00am) Friday – Saturday (11:00am – 2:00am) Sunday (9:30am – 12:00am) Phone: +62-21 718 2206 (reservations recommended) Website: www.elasador.co.id

At El Asador, and as in many South American countries, the lengua appetiser is served sliced cold as a salad with a vibrant vinaigrette drizzled over the top.

The Russian salad is a delightfully dressedup potato salad packed with vegetables and meat. The lengua has been boiled until fork-tender.

The great thing about El Asador is that it caters to every level of hunger. If one feels peckish, there are light meals consisting of salads and sandwiches. On the slightly hungry scale there are burgers, pastas and milanesas (fried chicken cutlets). Those who enjoy a hearty cut of meat can indulge from the a la carte parrilla menu where one can order up to 400 grams of grilled meat to satisfy a craving. Finally, for the famished there are the sharing and all-you-can-eat platters that provide an asado feast. The shared platters are meant for two or more people but can easily feed a family of four.

We ordered the premium platter with lamb chorizo, vacio, picañha, asado, chicken thighs and rib-eye. Each different cut of meat was cooked accordingly so as to maximise flavour and tenderness. When the platter arrived, it truly looked like a spectacular, sizzling, juicy mountain of

About the Owner Eugene started his restopreneur adventure in Indonesia after living in Australia for 9 years. He has been working in the food and beverage industry since he was 16 years old and after more than 28 years of experience, he decided to start his own restaurant.

He and his wife opened El Asador in 2013 inspired by his passion and love for food from his home country Uruguay.

After four years of successfully operating El Asador, Eugene decided to open two more restaurants, El Machote and Black Sheep, with his partners. He is a perfectionist when it comes to running restaurants, and always ensures his guests are happy and satisfied.

SENSATIA BOTANICALS ACQUIRES HALAL CERTIFICATION Issued by the Indonesian Council of Ulama Bali, the certification provides additional quality assurance to customers.

Sensatia Botanicals, Indonesia’s leading natural beauty care brand, officially received halal certification No. 08150009520218 issued by the Indonesian Council of Ulama Bali on April 4, 2018. The certification was issued after the Fatwa Commission of the Indonesian Council of Ulama Bali (Komisi Fatwa MUI Bali) affirmed that all Sensatia Botanicals products are officially certified-halal.

The application for halal certification is not only to fulfill the needs of the Moslem community as the majority of consumers in Indonesia, but also considered as one of the indicators of a good high quality product. It is because the issuance of halal certification is based on the result of the sharia audit report done by LPPOM MUI Bali (The Assessment Institute for Foods, Drugs and Cosmetics - The Indonesian Council of Ulama Bali). The audit involves thorough examination of all ingredients, production processes and implementation of Halal Assurance System (HAS) within the production facility.

“We are pleased to announce that now all Sensatia Botanicals products are certified-halal,” said Michael Lorenti Jr., Managing Director of Sensatia Botanicals. “Since 2000, we have been committed to producing high quality cosmetic products. As an extension of our understanding of the special needs of our Moslem consumers in Indonesia and throughout the world, we started the application for halal certification mid 2017.”

MUI’s halal certification adds more validity to the quality of products produced

by PT. Sensatia Botanicals along with the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification that has been granted in early 2015.

For the copy of halal certificate, please visit www.sensatia.com/MSDS/ HALAL_CERT.pdf.

ABOUT SENSATIA BOTANICALS Since 2000, Sensatia Botanicals is an Indonesian beauty care brand dedicated to offer naturally effective products. It has been granted GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) Certification under the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive and is the first GMPcertified company in Bali. Sensatia Botanicals is committed to minimize its environmental footprint while continuously empowers local community by hiring residents of Karangasem, an area where the brand was founded, resulting with over 90% of the total employees. Made in Bali, with globally sourced ingredients, all Sensatia Botanicals products are cruelty-free, free of parabens, palm oil, synthetic dyes and artificial fragrances.

For more information, please visit www.sensatia.com

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Top Ten

Kenneth Yeung is a Jakarta-based editor

Ten Facts about Durian

BY KENNETH YEUNG

T

hey smell like hell but taste like heaven. This football-sized “King of fruit” is famous for its pungent odour. A cleaver or machete is needed to open the thorny skin (duri means thorn). Inside are five or six segments of yellowish pulp encasing seeds. Here are our top ten facts on durian.

1. Indonesia’s founding president Sukarno publicly fed durian to US Ambassador Marshall Green, knowing he hated the fruit. Back in 1965, Sukarno had withdrawn Indonesia from the United Nations and was sending mixed signals on foreign policy. His durian dalliance with Green took place just days before the abortive military coup blamed on the Indonesian Communist Party. Green recalled in his memoir: “At this stage President Sukarno seemed to go out of his way to be pleasant, inviting only two members of the Diplomatic Corps, Mexican Ambassador Albaran and me, to share the podium with him at a September 28 cornerstone-laying ceremony at the University of Indonesia.

However, it soon became clear to me that Sukarno was up to one of his tricks, because, having learned that I intensely disliked durian (a large fruit that smells like strong cheese and has the consistency of dough), he called for one to be brought on stage. While Sukarno led a student chorus of “makan, makan” (eat it, eat it), I consumed the nasty stuff for the honor of my country. My Mexican colleague was spared this ordeal. This was to be my last encounter with Sukarno for many weeks. The country was about to explode.”

2. It’s an Indonesian urban myth that durian contains alcohol. If you google “durian” and “alcohol”, the first result declares: “Eating durian together with alcohol can be lethal.” Seriously? Can mixing durian and beer kill you? No, not unless you get so drunk you climb a durian tree and fall out head-first. However, doctors warn that beer and durian are not a good combination, as your liver has to work much harder to metabolise the fats and sugars. So consuming the two can cause indigestion and bloating. Also, durian contains a sulphur compound which may inhibit the metabolism of alcohol, resulting in swifter and more severe hangovers. Eating 500 grams or more of durian can raise blood pressure, so people with hypertension may be more prone to a heart attack if they consume excessive quantities of durian and alcohol (or carbonated, sugar-heavy beverages). In one experiment, groups of mice were force-fed alcohol and durian, but none died, although many passed out drunk.

3. Durian is reputed to be an aphrodisiac for men. Hence it is the “King” of the fruits. There is a saying in Malaysia, “When the durian falls, the sarong starts to rise.” Some people swear that eating a couple of the seeds will provide about two hours of firm stamina. Durian can cause body

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temperature and blood pressure to rise. A study showed male mice tend to copulate more frequently with females after consuming durian.

The fruit can be vacuum-packed in an effort to preserve freshness and prevent the odour from emanating.

7. Durian is believed to have originated in Borneo.

There are 27 species: mostly from Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra. Most species are inedible.

Grafting has produced many new and hybrid varieties, with agricultural scientists aiming for bigger, bettertasting fruit and higher-yielding trees. A mature tree produces about 100 fruit a year.

4. In Indonesia, you can buy durian-f lavoured condoms.

They were introduced by contraceptive producer SutraFiesta in 2003 as a gimmick to promote safe sex and family planning. Outspoken actress and singer Julia Perez, who died from cancer in 2017, served as “condom ambassador” to raise awareness for the prevention of HIV/AIDS. She declared the durian prophylactics her favourite. Durian condoms were launched in Thailand and Malaysia in 2016, and marketed as being ribbed with “extra large studs for maximum stimulation”. A pack of three produced by Fiesta costs about Rp15,000 – significantly cheaper than three actual durian.

5. Durian were believed to be a factor in Indonesia’s thirdworst plane crash, when Mandala Airlines Flight 91 went down in a residential area a few moments after taking off in Medan, North Sumatra, in September 2005, killing 149 people. An investigation found no signs of engine defects, but noted the plane had been loaded with 2.7 tons of fresh durian, although weight and balance were said to be in line with requirements.

6. Many airlines operating in Asia have banned durians from hand-baggage, as well as checked-in baggage. This is because the stench has prompted complaints from other passengers. In Singapore, durian are banned on public transport and in some hotels. Offenders are asked to throw away or consume the fruit elsewhere, or risk a S$500 fine.

8. Jakarta was sarcastically dubbed “the Big Durian”

by Western expatriates in the 1990s, signifying it is an acquired taste. The metaphor suggests the city’s malodorous stench and thorny traffic conceal delicious treasures.

The nickname never really caught on, lacking the local popularity of New York as “the Big Apple”. Singapore’s enormous Esplanade Theatre complex has been nicknamed “the big durian” because of its spiny domed rooftops. There’s also a 2003 Malaysian documentary film called The Big Durian, about a soldier running amok in Kuala Lumpur.

9. Durian are a status symbol in Indonesia and other Asian nations, proudly presented as a gift. Prices in Indonesian markets range from about Rp25,000 to Rp100,000 per fruit, depending on the variety, size and taste. Indonesians consume an average 1.41 kilograms of durian per capita annually. The fruit are cholesterol-free but high in calories and sugar, so should be avoided by diabetics. In 2015, Indonesia produced 996,540 tons of durian, mostly in Java and Sumatra.

10. Durian husks have been touted as an environmentallyfriendly component for particleboard furniture and organic fertilisers. Only about 30 percent of a durian is consumed; the seeds and huge husk are usually discarded.

Husks can be chipped, dried, chemically treated and mixed with coconut husks to produce particleboards for insulation panels or furniture. The white part of the fruit can be used in cosmetics.

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Announcements

Aryaduta Hotel Group Lands in Bali BALI Indonesia-based Aryaduta Hotel Group opened its latest Hotel in Bali’s South Kuta on March 29 with “bigger is better” in mind, featuring one of the island’s largest wedding chapels, custom video walls in its conference facility and the roomiest hotel rooms in Kuta.

adapt to multiple configurations including meeting rooms that can host private dinners, board meetings, or serve as closed off VIP areas for premier events. The facility is integrated with Lippo mall, easy access to the airport for groups and our proximity to entertainment and cultural highlights,” says General Manager, Mr. Wayan.

The 178-room Aryaduta Bali is a purpose-built facility positioned close to South Bali’s most recognised attractions that include an array of cultural and leisure pursuits, the legendary Kuta Beach, and a few minutes stroll to Waterbom Park, Segara Beach and colourful street side shopping. Facilities include the Reef Top swimming pool and bar overlooking Segara Beach, undercover parking, tour desk, transfers and concierge services. Guests will also find a relaxing layover lounge for late departures and an airport pick up service.

On the ground floor fronting the mall is Henry’s Grill & Bar, a 120-seat, two-floor restaurant positioned as Kuta’s up market BBQ destination featuring live sport broadcasts from its giant multiple screen video walls and a second floor with pool table and pinball machines.

The stylish eatery offers comfortable deep seating where customers can watch the open kitchen where Executive Chef, Sydney de Hart and his team cook at the grill. The restaurant also doubles as a retail butcher equipped with a temperature-controlled meat-ageing room where meat is hung until perfection and upon request sliced and wrapped as a take away indulgence.

MICE facilities include a smart mix of event and flexible meeting spaces. “The hotel’s ballroom is sufficiently sized accommodating varied requirements with spaces able to

Mexican Fiesta at Hotel GranDhika Iskandarsyah Jakarta JAKARTA Mexico is a country between the U.S. and Central America that's known for its Pacific and Gulf of Mexico beaches and its diverse landscape of mountains, deserts and jungles.

Ancient ruins such as Teotihuacán and the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá are scattered throughout the country, as are Spanish colonial-era towns. In the capital Mexico City, upscale shops, renowned museums and gourmet restaurants cater to modern life.

The event involves a regular buffet dinner every night serving mostly Mexican food, and other activities include dance classes every Tuesday night at 7pm (April 17 and 24, 2018), cooking with Chef Gerardo Milan every Saturday at 10am (April 21 and 28, 2018), and a set menu dinner with a special show from The Shock Latin Band, Damaris and Rino, DJ Howard and MC Carlos Camelo at 7pm on April 21, 2018. The dinner will be sold at a price of Rp4 million per table for eight people.

The event “Mexico Fiesta Program” involving the Mexican Embassy will be held at Hotel GranDhika Iskandarsyah Jakarta for the first time, and the hotel has invited Mexican chef, Chef Gerardo Milan to attend.

For those who want to join this event, please contact the reservation team at Hotel GranDhika Iskandarsyah Jakarta, Jl. Iskandarsyah Raya No. 65 Jakarta ph. 021-2912 7788 Ext. 7109/7401 or email: info@grandhika-hotel.com

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali Celebrates the Mövenpick Brand’s 70 Years of Culinary Excellence

BALI Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali hosted a stylish dining event on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 to celebrate 70 Years of Culinary Excellence for the Mövenpick brand. Key travel partners and media representatives were invited to experience an evening of delicious wining and dining that perfectly showcased the balance between local hospitality and Swiss flair.

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The dinner was part of a global culinary program to mark 70 Years of Culinary Excellence. Established in Switzerland in 1948, Mövenpick was initially launched as a restaurant/bar concept that was ahead of its time and went on to modernise Europe’s dining scene. Cocktails and small bites served in the social ambience of Katha Lounge kicked the event off to a fine start as the sun went down.

Sultry saxophone music set the mood as guests mingled and enjoyed a video presentation highlighting Mövenpick’s pioneering culinary journey.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts worldwide to honour the brand’s founder, Mr. Ueli Prager.

Upon moving downstairs to Anarasa Restaurant for dinner, guests were met by Executive Sous Chef Leony Rossalia presiding over an open-plan kitchen where the guests could see the plating of the different dishes live. There she proceeded to introduce a selection of seven inventive dishes currently being launched across

As the event drew to a close, every guest in attendance was presented with a token gift bag as a small memento of the evening. This was filled with signature items including a mug bearing the Swiss national flag, a recipe book celebrating Mövenpick’s milestone anniversary and hand-crafted chocolate pralines.

Shared platters of appetisers included scallops & avocado tartare, salade belle fermière and mille feuille saumon & caviar d’olive. A trio of main courses was equally as impressive with mushrooms and vegetables Zurich style followed by seafood Casimir and a bare beef burger Café de Paris. A quirky waffle reinterpretation of a classic Swiss carrot cake was served as a sweet finale.

Fairmont Jakarta Offers Luxurious Packages with a Private Helicopter Tour

Crossword #212

JAKARTA Fairmont Jakarta has announced the launch of new packages that combine luxurious room accommodation and finedining experience with a breathtaking helicopter private tour to create unforgettable experiences for all its guests.

The three new packages include A Luxurious Fly-cation, featuring an accommodation in the hotel’s spacious Sky Suite, a four-course dinner for two people in VIEW restaurant, 15-minute flightseeing tour over Jakarta’s landmarks with two glasses of champagne upon arrival, and buffet breakfast for two at Spectrum restaurant. The Luxurious Fly-cation package is priced from Rp12 million++.

The Stay & Fly High package includes one-night accommodation in the Fairmont Room, breakfast for two people at Spectrum and a 15-minute flight-seeing tour around Jakarta. Guests can enjoy this package starting from Rp9.1 million++.

The Banda Islands: Hidden Histories and Miracles of Nature

Meanwhile, for foodies who want to have an elevated experience can opt for the Brunch & Fly package which includes an exquisite Sunday brunch for two people at the Spectrum restaurant followed by a 15-minute flight-seeing tour around Jakarta. The Brunch & Fly package is available at Rp8.5 million++.

The hotel has collaborated with the city's most prominent helicopter provider, Helicity by Whitesky Aviation. To cater different preferences and occasions, there are two helicopter types that guests can choose from. The Bell 505 can accommodate three to four passengers and the Bell 429 can accommodate up to six passengers.

Guests who book any of the helicopter packages will receive a VVIP treatment including a red carpet at the hotel’s private helipad, special refreshments, and exclusive amenities. The helicopter packages are available with prior booking of a minimum two days in advance. Package rates are subject to 10 percent service charge and prevailing government tax.

For more information or reservations, please call +62 (21) 2970 3333 or email reservations.jakarta@fairmont.com or visit www.fairmont.com/jakarta/special-offers/ hotel-offers/signature/luxurious-flycation.

The Banda Islands have long fascinated explorers, anthropologists, writers, photographers, filmmakers, and artists. These ‘islands of spicerie’ have witnessed key moments in history, from the beginnings of global capitalism and colonisation to Indonesia’s journey towards becoming a nation. Today the region is one of the last true marine wildernesses in the world, rivalling Manhattan’s gloss with a wealth of a different kind.

The Banda Islands anthology features the words and images of those who have come under the islands’ spell throughout centuries, including acclaimed novelist Amitav Ghosh (Sea of Poppies), ‘master of narrative history’ Giles Milton (Nathaniel’s Nutmeg), writer and epidemiologist Elizabeth Pisani (Indonesia Etc., The Wisdom of Whores), senior journalist and activist Goenawan Mohamad, and ‘King of Banda’ Des Alwi, along with many other writers and artists such as Jean Couteau, Oscar Motuloh, M. Fadli, Tim Severin, John Seabrook (The New Yorker), Made Wianta, Hanafi, Lawrence Blair (Ring of Fire), Michael Vatikiotis (Blood and Silk, The Spice Garden) and many more.

Published by Kabar Media, The Banda Islands: Hidden Histories and Miracles of Nature is a visual and literary odyssey through history, culture, and the wonders of the deep Banda Sea. Three hundred and fifty years after the signing of the Treaty

of Breda, this book is a celebration of the Banda Islands: their role in reminding us of the past’s rich legacy and alerting us to the importance of creating a sustainable future, for Indonesia and for the world.

The publisher also seeks to raise awareness of sustainability and education initiatives on the islands that focus on environment awareness and creativity. For copies that are sold directly through Kabar Media, 10 percent of proceeds go directly to multiple causes such as Warnawarni Kids, Sea Ventures Trust, and to environmental campaigner Magafira Ali. For further information, contact: Executive Editor Jan Russell (jan@kabarmedia.com), publisher Avi Hazuria (avi@kabarmedia. com)

THE INDONESIA EXPAT CROSSWORD Just translate the clues into English! Be careful!

Indonesian words can have more than one English equivalent!

ACROSS 1. Putih 3. Pohon 4. Kapal 6. Stadion 8. Sepeda motor 9. Cokelat 11. Mobil 15. Biru mudah (two words)

16. Pesawat terbang 17. Sepeda 21. Lingkungan 23. Perahu 25. Pejalan kaki 26. Merah mudah 29. Ungu 30. Hijau 31. Hijau tua (two words)

DOWN 2. Lembab 3. Topan 5. Gedung 6. Kapal selam 7. Lampu lalu lintas (two words) 10. Kereta api 12. Pusat kota (two words) 13. Biru

14. Hangat 17. Hitam 18. Kuning 19. Hijau mudah (two words) 20. Unta 22. Biru tua (two words) 24. Perpustakaan 27. Kuda 28. Abu-abu

ANSWERS OF ISSUE 211 ACROSS— 3. Monkey 8. Powerful 9. Winter 10. Husband 12. Banana 15. Grandfather 18. Dinner 19. Autumn 22. Donkey 23. Cloudy 24. Inexpensive 26. Potato 27. Alligator 28. People 30. Spring DOWN— 1. Long 2. Small 4. Expensive 5. Wife 6. Peanut 7. Breakfast 11. Summer 12. Big 13. Furniture 14. Thin 15. Grandmother 16. Thick 17. Refrigerator 20. Short 21. Grape 25. Snowing 29. Lunch

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Events

If you want your event to be posted here, please contact +622129657821 or email: letters@indonesiaexpat.biz

JAKARTA Networking

Music

SHVR Ground Festival 4 – 5 May 2018

Jakarta Business Networkers Every Thursday Make the right connections and grow your business over lunch. At Jakar ta Business Networkers (JBN) all attendees are encouraged to help others by exchanging referrals and introducing each other to target audiences. JBN is all about helping you grow. Promote your business, personal brand or portfolio each week to the rest of the attendees and explain to the group the type of referrals you would like to receive.

JBN professional networking sessions are every Thursday lunchtime at Central, South and West of Jakarta. RSVP: info@ jbnetworkers.com.

SHVR Ground Festival comes annually to satisfy your love for the dance music where you discover experiences you’ve never had before. Now, get yourself ready because we’re gonna take you again to the whole new level of rave party in SHVR Ground Festival 2018 at Allianz Eco Park. This year’s big lineup includes Rita Ora, 3LAU, Aly & Fila, Cheat Codes, FKJ, Khomha, Nicky Romero, Andre Dunant, RBA and many more. Follow Instagram S H V R GROU N D FESTIVAL 2018 @SHVR _ ID and @ hypefestivalid with official hashtag #StartTheParty and #SGF18 to get the latest update about the event. Ticket price starts from Rp375,000.

M o r e i n f o : w w w. s h v r. i d / shvrgroundfestival

The Jakarta Bridge Club Every Tuesday and Friday The Jakarta Bridge Club invites expat communities throughout Jakarta to join a networking session on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9am to 12pm. Participants meet for pleasant and convivial moments where they can share and exchange information among expats at three to five tables.

The networking event takes place at Die Stube Restaurant on Jalan Kemang Raya. Visitors and partners are welcome to join.

For more information, please contact Ernah at +62818686999.

Jakarta Marketing Week 2018 2-8 May 2018 MarkPlus, Inc. is holding an event for Marketing enthusiasts in Indonesia for a week at the Kot a K a s a b l ank a , J ak ar t a .

Jakarta Marketing Week 2018 # J M W 2 0 18 i s a p l a t f o r m that connects all Marketing enthusiasts among ar tists, businesses, and government circles. There are hundreds of ways to be inspired, celebrate and connect at the 6 th Jakarta Marketing Week 2018. Headline presentations and shows from creative people, awards ceremonies, exhibitions of the greatest work of local and global brands, unique communit y, engrossing workshops, meetups and more.

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Brian McKnight is returning to the Indonesia once again to entice his fans. The famed music icon who is most recognised for his strong falsetto and belting range, will be showcasing his talent to the audience at Telkom Landmark Tower at the Auditorium (6th floor).

McKnight is talent is not only as a song-writer or producer but also a multi-instrumentalist who plays eight instruments including the piano, guitar, bass guitar, percussion, trombone, tuba, flugelhorn and trumpet.

He is also one of the very few leggiero tenors in the pop genre.

Known for songs like Anytime, Back at One, Still and One Last Cry, McKnight has collaborated with performers across every genre including Quincy Jones, Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, Diddy, Christina Aguilera, Rascal Flatts, Nelly, Vanessa Williams, Willie Nelson, Kenny G and David Foster. Tickets are available at originalproduction.co.id, Rajakarcis.com, Ibudibjo.com, & loket.com

One of the most well known and successful singer in pop music history, Celine Dion has sold almost 250 million albums during her career. She has earned five Grammy Awards, two Academy Awards and seven American Music Awards. This year, Celine Dion announced she will head overseas this summer with her highly anticipated LIVE 2018 Tour to perform in seven cities across the Asia-Pacific region. And Jakarta, here she comes! The show will be held at Sentul International Convention Center. For tickets visit www. celinedionjkt.com

Brian McKnight Solo Concert 28 & 29 April 2018 Telkom Landmark Tower presents Brian McKnight Solo Concert “Intimate Live – Up Close & Personal” World Tour 2018.

Nominated sixteen times by Grammy-nominated R&B crooner

Food

Show Indigenous Celebration 11 -–13 May 2018

Street Food Festival 2018 by Hotel Indonesia Kempinski 27 April – 6 May 2018

Dreamgirls Production by Jakarta Performing Arts Community 25 – 27 May 2018

Celine Dion Live in Jakarta 7 July 2018

figures in the beauty industry and also brush up your beauty skill and knowledge here with thousands of other beaut y enthusiasts. Clear your schedule, and bring your squad, family and loved ones to experience this awesome annual event by Female Daily Network. The event will be held at Senayan City.

For more information contact + 6 2 21719 4 6 4 6 o r eve nt @ femaledaily.com. Or visit www. jakartaxbeauty.com.

on the shores of Indian Ocean at Potato Head Beach Club in Bali. The two-day cultural event will combine music, art, and sustainability. Each year, music lovers from Asia and Australia gathered together to the island to experience this iconic festival.

In addition to a stellar line up of local and international DJs, vocalist and bands, This year’s edition will feature a number of eco-minded art installations and a pop-up merchandise store.

F or more info v isit w w w. sunnysideupfest.com

Let your soul sing with an extraordinar y stor y and unforgettable, spine-tingling vocals that are sending audiences wild at every single show. This spectacular musical production soars with the classic songs, ‘And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going’, ‘I Am Changing’, ‘Listen’ and ‘One Night Only’. Meet The Dreams – Effie, Lorrell, and Deena – three talented young singers in the turbulent 1960s, a revolutionary time in American music history. Join the three friends as they embark upon a musical rollercoaster ride through a world of fame, fortune and the ruthless realities of show business, testing their friendships to the very limit. Dreamgirls musical will be the 9th production of Jakar ta Per forming A r ts Community (JPAC). Licensed through Tams-Witmark Music Library Inc., Dreamgirls boasts a cast of accomplished musical actors and dancers. The worldclass talents are completed by gorgeous costumes as well as dazzling production design to present you a theatrical ex p e r i e n c e l i ke n o o t h e r.

Website: www.jakartapac.com | Email: ticket@jakartapac.com

Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, the country’s first five-star hotel and the property after which the famous Bundaran HI roundabout is named, will hold a street-food festival from 27 April to 6 May at its Signatures restaurant. The festival is being held to offer the authentic Jakarta culinary street food experience. Executive Chef, Mathias Olsson, has specially invited the most popular vendors to showcase Jakarta street-food and create an exciting culinary experience for guests. More than 30 dishes, from bakso, soto betawi and sate padang, which are easily found on the streets of Jakarta, will be presented in a buffet and food stalls set up. Prices will range from Rp 3 8 8 ,0 0 0 ++ per person for weekdays dinners (Monday to Friday) to Rp 548,000++ for weekends dinners (Saturday and Sunday). For more information contact +6221235 8 38 9 8 or signatures.jakarta@kempinski. com

BALI Festivals

Workshops Female Daily Jakarta Beauty 2018 27 – 29 April 2018

Sunny Side Up Tropical Festival 20-21 July 2018

Jakarta X Beauty is a beauty party for all. Shop your favorite beauty products, meet influential

The fifth edition of Sunny Side Up Tropical Festival by Ismaya Live will once again be held

The First Ever Gathering of Indigenous Peoples in Bali, Indonesia in a spirit of dance, music, wisdom, education, unity and connection. Honoring the Elders, protecting our Mother Earth and uniting the youth through education. The Indigenous Celebration event recognizes the special wisdom of indigenous peoples and their unique relationship with the environment. It celebrates their role as great teachers, storytellers and poets of life.

This is a non-profit event, and any money left over from ticket sales (for the events at ARMA) and sponsorships will be donated to registered Indonesian Yayasan and charities that preserve the culture and environment of indigenous communities.

Music

Carl Cox & Eric Powell’s Mobile Disco Bali 19 May 2018 Ulu Clif fhouse the clif f top playground nestled in Uluwatu, Bali, is set to host Carl Cox and Eric Powell’s fantastic mobile disco on Saturday 19th May 2018 as part of its new Saturday social event series. With a capacity of 2,000 people, and some of Bali’s most awe-inspiring views, combined with the king Carl Cox and his partner in crime Eric Powell will DJ back to back for an incredible nonstop 8-hour set, this will be one of the highlights of the event calendar for 2018. For Silver and Gold VIP packages please contact reservations@ulucliffhouse. com call or WhatsApp +62813 38812502. If you would like to purchase tickets in IDR please visit our friends at Bali Clubbing: https://www.baliclubbing.net/ events/mobiledisco/

LIVE STAND-UP COMEDY EVERY MONTH IN JAKARTA For details 0821 1194 3084 info@madaboutcomedy.com www.paytix.net

Bali Blues Festival 11 – 12 May 2018 Bali Blues Festival is a festival that is held with the genre of blues music. Bali Blues Festival is an annual event organized by PT Pengembangan Pariwisata Indonesia (Persero) / Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) that managed the Nusa Dua Tourism Area which in its implementation is supported by Pregina Art & Showbiz. Bali Blues Festival is also supported by various parties and blues community in Bali. Peninsula Island as the event venue has an amazing view that is of great value. With a beautiful venue as a value added we have a very big determination to make Bali Blues Festival as an international music event. www. balibluesfestival.com

IF YOU WANT YOUR EVENT TO BE POSTED HERE, please contact +622129657821 or email: letters@ indonesiaexpat.biz

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

Local Experts Providing Comprehensive Tax, Accounting & Payroll Services Let Integra Consulting team provide you with the comprehensive services that will help you achieve your financial objectives.

We welcome you to review our professional services: · Accounting · Tax · Payroll

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Integra Consulting - Jl. Puter Raya EC2/41 Bintaro Jaya, Tel. : (021) 7358635, 0812 9165 4830 Email: integra.projects@yahoo.co.id

SERVICED OFFICE • VIRTUAL OFFICE • MEETING

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INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

INDONESIA EXPAT DIRECTORY

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

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

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CLASSIFIEDS

JAKARTA AUTOMOTIVE 2 0 13 To y o t a C a m r y 2 . 5 i n excellent condition. Black, luxury interior. 33,000km. Selling due to international move. Contact: Simon (sasha@sgbmailbox.com) For sale: Toyota Fortuner 2.5 VNT Diesel. Year 2014, diplomatic plates 47,000km. Perfect conditions.

Complete Toyota services and maintenance. Double screen DVD system. Available end of June 2018 (negotiable earlier). Asking price: US$19,000. Contact: Enrico(Call or WhatsApp: +6282113989458) Selling because we are leaving Jakarta. Bought this car in 2015 from Mobile88 (premiere reseller) and it has served our family well. All scheduled maintenance, including regular oil changes. Maintenance records and mechanical inspection report available from official Nissan dealership. Ice cold A /C. Nonsmoker. Interior in great shape.

Scratches on side of car have been fixed. No frame damage. Perfect family car. Added new tires in 2016.

Price 100 mio IDR non-negotiable.

We live in Kemang if you would like to inspect the car. Karen : +6281287531741.

LOOKING FOR WORK I am a full-time working mum looking for an experienced, early childhood educator who can come to my house in Pondok Indah one or two days a week and train my nanny and daughter on how to play together, do activities together and limit screen time. If interested please text or WA me: +6281212426141.

I, Paul Farrell have hands on experience in installation, maintenance, repairs/general repairs, in plumbing, electrical, locksmith, steel work (welding), c a r p e n t r y, w a t e r p r o o f i n g , painting, tiling, building, alteration designs, projects, cost saving improvements, proven skills in problem solving, including pool maintenance repairs with pumps and fountains. setup maintenance department including procuring e q ui p m ent fo r m ainten an c e tools and gardening tools and staff for 5 star venue. 27 years of work experience. 10 Years

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Personal classifieds = FREE Property and other commercial classifieds = PAID (50 words = Rp.100,000 | 50 words + image = Rp.250,000)

of m a n a g e m e nt ex p e r i e n c e .

Certificates available on request.

Can star t immediately. Email: paulf6798@gmail.com

JOBS AVAILABLE We are looking for a full-time liveout all-around helper/nanny. We live in Permata Hijau area in Jakarta, with two kids, one is a half-year old baby and the other is seven years. Mainly the helper's job is to take care of baby's feeding, washing baby clothes, and giving shower to baby. But we also hope that she can help preparing for cooking, such as cutting food, especially for dinner. On overtime basis, we sometimes need her to stay overnight to take care of the baby. So experience with kids is preferred. Importantly, we look for someone with good personality, strong sense of responsibility, and good work disciplines to take the job. For details and interview, we can be contacted at +6 2 85311190648 (SMS/ WhatsApp preferred).

SERVICES

Bahasa Indonesia lessons for expats living in South Jakarta, Kuningan, Countr y Wood, BSD, given by instructor with 20 years experience. Flexible schedule. Please call Pak Chairuman +628121037466 or email chairuman19 42@ gmail.com

Bahasa Lessons by ACE offers Bahasa course for expatriates.There are Basic, Intermediate and Advanced level. Available in house @ Coteri Building, 1st floor, Kemang Raya 14B, South Jakarta and we can deliver the training in clients office or residence. Experienced & native teachers from different linguistics background. Most of our clients are Oil and Gas companies and multinational companies. Contact: bahasalessons@gmail.com or WA +6282233085108 (Ms. Ellis). Website: www. bahasalessons.com

Learn Spanish (IB, IGCSE, DELE) 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) +6282110502786.

Hi I'm Sri Lestari, a certified native Indonesian teacher.

I'm strongly committed to h e l p i n g I n d o n e s i a n language learners improve their langu age sk ills. I offer professional lessons: Indonesian for beginners/ intermediate/advanced learners — Conversation (guided discussions of current events or topics you may find interesting, with correction of mistakes, and explanations of grammar and usage — Sur vival Indonesian (for travelers)— Colloquial Jakar tan (for those who are interested in getting an insight into Indonesian language used in informal context. I have structured materials and my sessions are suitable for absolute beginners or those who have previously learned bahasa Indonesia.

E-mail: indonesianwithsri@ gmail.com. Phone: +6285719414022.

Home tuition with experienced,friendly and helpful teacher for National and International Curriculum (IGCSE/IB) for Senior High School Students and College Graduation Students. We provide home tuition in Accounting, Finance, Economics and Law. Please call Pati at +6281218004984 or +6281283060269 or email: apex117@gmail.com

Native Italian and Spanish language teacher in Jakarta. Private lessons at your home. More than 10 years of experience with students of all ages. Grammar and conversation lessons. Email me at sean.silla@ gmail.c om or W hats A p p to +6281298177496.

Help your child reach his potential!

If your child has AD/HD, Autism, PDD/ NOS, Down Syndrome, Nonverbal Learning Disability (NVLD), or a specific Learning Disability (LD) and needs after school home support to cope up with school work, please feel free to contact Teacher Jun at teacher. specialeducation@gmail.com for an appointment.

Get ready for Golf Season! All levels and ages are welcome, f ro m b e g i n n e r to a d v a n c e d programs. For more information and to book a lesson, please email below. Accel Golf Academy – All lessons conducted in English at Pondok Indah Driving Range. Book a lesson: accelgolf@gmail.com

PROPERTY

Beautiful new full renovated house for rent. 2 storey + basement. 750m2 + 1000m2 land with join pool. Located 10 minutes from Cilandak Commercial Estate. USD 3,000/ month nett excluding tax (negotiate). If interested please call / WA owner: +62811180605

Looking for something to buy / sell? 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 submission day:

For rent 300 houses at Kemang, Cipete, Cilandak, Jeruk Purut, Po n d o k I n d ah . B i g g ard e ns , swimming pools, USD2,000 – 5,000. Phone: +62816859551 or +628170093366.

LG 60" 4K Smart TV purchased in 2015: Rp10 million. Grand piano Yamaha in perfect shape : Rp55 million. Must sell, 50% of original price. Oakwood La Maison, App 9H Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta. Call: +628881853939. Email: christian. daigneault@gmail.com

Can start as soon as possible.

Period: 9 -12 months. Salary by experience + incentives. Apply and make a difference at shanti travel!

Please send your CV and your letter in English to hr@shantitravel.com

HOUSEHOLD STAFF

I'm looking for part time job as nanny,speaking good english,loving kids,friendly,able to ride motorbike and driving car. Please kindly WA me to this number +6287762980822.

Luxury two level Essence Dharmawangsa apartment townhouse (357 sqm) 4BR with private lobby entrance.

12m x 4 m private p o ol.

Gourmet open kitchen w i t h b re a k f a s t b a r a n d new appliances. Separate dining room, T V lounge with enter tainment area and formal lounge. Upstairs to a large family room and 4 bedrooms and marble tiled bathrooms. Two special dedicated carparks in front of basement lobby. Fully furnished. Certificate Strata title. Facilities: Gym, Sauna, S.Pool, Tennis court, Jogging t r a c k , L ake, B B Q a re a , Garden, Playground, Meeting room, Function room, Mini market, ATM. FOR SALE: Rp 16,500,000,000. FOR RENT: Rp 745,000,000, contact anne.santosa@ap.jll.com or Whatsapp+6281999799719.

Kemang Jaya – Apartments for rent. 1BR 93m2 or 2BR 135m2.

Also duplex penthouse. On 3 hectares of pools & gardens in Bali like setting – only one in Jakarta of this scale . Close to major expats amenities. 1BR rental: Rp7.5 million / month (Net). 2BR rental: Rp15.5 million / month (Net). Contact owner: +6281514233366 or email kkr.79a@gmail.com

Townhouse, jln Wijaya kusuma 1/99 E Cilandak, Jakarta Selatan, close to BP , highscope International school , schlumberger . Land/ building 276/ 355 sqm with 4 bedroom , 5 bathroom (3 ensuite).

Fitted kitchen . Half furnished .

Ele c tr ic it y 6 , 6 0 0 VA (c an b e upgraded ) Fully air-conditioned.

2 car garage plus 2 carport, 24 hours security. Price: US$1,500/ month and minimum a year .

Contact nuri +6287884474218 or +62818512547 by WA/ email nurinursasi@yahoo.com Looking for an apartment for rent?

We help to find Apartment or house for rent at South Jakarta.

Many rooms available that might suit you and family. Phone Number: +6281908307607. Email: ozindoproperty@gmail.com Apartment for sale: The Grove M aster piece, lo c ated in the superblock Rasuna Epicentrum, strategic location in the CBD Kuningan, Floor size:105m 2 , 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1 maid room, semi-furnished, 18 th floor, fac e e ast , walk ing dist anc e to MMC Hospital, groceries, bank, cinema, etc. Price: Rp3.9 billion. Negotiable.Call/SMS: +628111770721.

House for rent: one floor house at Premium Area Kebayoran Baru, Jl. Brawijaya, nice area. Close to

Dharmawangsa, JIS Patimura, SCBD. Nice, tidy and clean house.

Land size 530 sqm, build size 270 sqm, 4+2 Bedrooms, 3+1 bath rooms, ser vice area, garden, swimming pool, garage. Carport.

Rent US$4,000/month. Contact: Cindy +628119472075 or email : c.virginia@gmail.com For rent new house with pool,beautiful garden at comp ound in kemang timur.

Price US$2,000(furnished)/month.

Location: Compound facility(basket court,beautiful garden and jogging track,one gate system,near police office,front of AIS( Australian international school),close to Hero Supermarket Kemang).

L and size 4 0 0m 2 , house size 300m2, 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, storage,etc. More info and pics: +628129302654 or email balafif@ yahoo.com.

Kemang Jaya – apartments for rent.

2BR + 1 maid room with total size 135m2. Fully furnished. Close to all major expats amenities. Facilities: gym room, swimming pool, tennis court, children playground, and jogging track with huge garden.

Contact Owner: +628119788288 or email irwan@suburfurniture.com

PERSONAL Successful diversified cafe, bakery, retail outlet looking for an equity buy in to a profitable business in Senggigi, Lombok. Business has a turnover of US$500,000 per annum. An equity partner would allow both par ties to benefit financially and to have adequate time off to enjoy our beautiful islands. Email me for additional information (geoff@ptindiwi.com).

Jl. Palm Raja No 3 BTN Green Valley, Senggigi, Lombok.

I am looking to buy or take over existing PMA real estate broker company anywhere in Indonesia which is registered with AREBI & SIUP-4. If you or your associates has one for sale, please contact me: +6281803696644 or email: ns24jp@hotmail.com

FOR SALE 2-seater sofa brown: Rp1,000,000.

Kids picnic plastic table with bench red colour: Rp250,0 0 0.Round fo ot sto ol round R p 4 0 0 ,0 0 0 .

Antique Korean chest as side table Rp500,000. 2 Paintings lily Batik frame each Rp500,000. Hammock wood & rope from The Philippines Rp350,000. Table lamp black no shade Rp10 0,0 0 0. WhatsApp +6287882738343 for inquiries and pictures.

Treadmill – Horizon Fitness Paragon II HRC. Asking price Rp5,000,000.

Will accept offers for a quick sale.

This running machine has various programs for speed and elevation.

In good condition, with new feet and grips on handle bars. Folds for storage. Comes with owner's guide/ instructions. Collection from Cilandak area. For more details and/ or photos contact: +628118714951 (Call/WhatsApp).

Send in your personal classidieds for FREE to: ads@indonesiaexpat.biz

2 May 2018

We are soon to move from Jakarta and would really like to find a job for our housekeeper / cleaner before we leave. Sutinah has worked for us from September 2017 and during this time she has been an excellent part-time, live-out housekeeper.

She has worked for us 3 days a week, she has kept our large 4 bedroom house clean, washed dishes, washed our all our clothes and done our ironing. Her English is excellent and she has helped us with communication and also managing workmen, poolman/ gardener and AC maintenance teams, etc. She is extremely trustworthy and punctual and has never missed a day of work.

I can highly recommend Sutinah as a housekeeper / cleaner. You can contact Sutihah directly on +6281296888859 (WhatsApp). For reference you can contact me Diane Hooper: diane.hooper@telia.com

BALI JOBS AVAILABLE Tattoo studio in Bali is looking for shop manager. We are looking for a reliable, responsible, easygoing person with fluent English and excellent people skills. Experience in tattoo industry is not required but should love tattooing. Male or female.Indonesian or foreigners (the shop provides work visa).

Location in Canggu. Emails us your CV also a link to your Instagram with all details (salary, hours, etc.)

Will be discussed via email only: charlierosetattoobali@gmail.com We are looking for a online/ digital marketing partner who is able to help us revamp some of our Wordpress websites and social media profiles, develop a newsletter, some SEO and to offer an ongoing contract based partnership, which is compensated in a combination of fixed fees and success fees based on achieved targets. As we have a limited budget at the moment we want to reward our partner according to sales generated through their activities, not just based on a fixed fee, as we have had bad experiences in the past. We are open to your proposals, but as a local small company we need a reasonable approach that is mutually beneficial long term for both parties. Feel free to get in touch if you are interested chris@ ecosmarthub.com You have a passion for travel and Asia? Are you a strong multi-Tasker, highly motivated and ready to increase the growth of the German market and our goals? You are ready to live / work in an international environment and love to solve problems and develop something new with the team?

• German + English fluently (good skills in French is a plus) • Passionate Traveller. Already travelled around Indonesia • Having sales experience • Experience in tourism is a plus

LOOKING FOR WORK

26 years old, psychology graduate, Indonesian.I am looking for work in Bali, I am experienced as a branch manager karaoke, cameraman, hotel marketing, graphic designer, and proficient in computer. I look for opportunities in administration, HR administration / HRD, general secretary, marketing. If anyone interested can contact me on: +6281335529277 (Call / WA).

PROPERTY

5 bedroom yearly rental villa in Umalas. Land 1000m2. 5 bedroom with en-suite bathroom, close/ open living room, upstairs living room, pool table, sauna, gazebo, swimming pool & jacuzzi, garage.

P r i c e: R p 4 3 0 , 0 0 0 , 0 0 0 . F o r m o r e i n fo r m a t i o n c a l l : K i k i +6287878161615.

Western standard 1 bedroom apartment, with private kitchen, private bathroom with hot shower, and private living room has been designed special for traveller who love to enjoy the south west coast of Bali. Apartment located in Berawa, Canggu with 7 minute distance to the Beach and Finn Beach club. Coffee shop, Italian pizza restaurant, local restaurant and restaurant for breakfast just 3 minute work. Simple and good place to stay while Holiday in Bali.

For reservation please contact via WhatsApp +6285739766983.

Email: fishouse.37@gmail.com Minimum of Stay: 3 days.

For lease 13 are land with rice field view and the location in quiet area.

Location : Jln Padang Tawang, Canggu. Price: Rp 4,50 0,0 0 0/ are /year(Net). Just 10 minutes to Canggu Beach. Road access width 3 metre. If you are interested, please call or WA +6281236011142.

high).Contact +6287812619652 please send me your number and I will send you a location map.

with coconut water. Add me on WA: +62817347389 (Miss Coco).

Fre e d e li ve r y C a n g g u a re a , Pererenan, Seminyak, Kerobokan, Batu belig and Petitenget.

FOR SALE

An old teak wood Credenza with gold Prada Rp900,000.(150cm long x 46cm wide x 81cm high). Teak wood Chester drawers Rp450,000 (74cm long x 45cm wide x 89cm

Fresh coconut water (free delivery).

W h o l e R p10 , 0 0 0 . B y b o t t l e Rp15,000. Good for pregnancy, Bali belly, hangover cure, dehydrate and replacing water. Stay young

Ever y T hursd ay J akar ta's o l d e s t (19 8 6 ) r u n n i n g c l u b meets. For questions contact: +6281284504422

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I FEEL DIZZY! I feel lightheaded….I feel dizzy….It is a complaint that is not unusual. Could it be the traffic or life in Jakarta? It is usually not a sign of anything serious. We do advise, it should be investigated by a doctor.

Some people use the word dizziness to describe a feeling of lightheadedness or off balance. Others use it to describe a feeling that their surroundings are spinning around.

It can be caused by an ear condition. When the dizziness occurs when you're in the upright position it is probably not related to the ear. Dizziness when you're lying down is usually caused by a viral ear infection.

The symptom can be vague and can be caused by several things. It may not always be easy to identify the underlying cause of dizziness.

It’s a good idea to keep a diary of your dizziness. What were you doing and how long did it last. Did you have any other symptoms like fainting, vomiting, nausea, blurred vision, headache or hearing problems.

This article is written to explain what you should do if you feel dizzy and what the most common causes of dizziness are.

See your GP! The GP should be your first port of call. This is especially true when you suffer from fainting and headaches at the same time.

www.goodpractice.co.id

It can also be a possible side effect of medication. You may be referred for further tests and investigations.

Common causes of dizziness • Inner ear infection (Labyrinthitis) that affects your hearing and balance, this can cause a form of dizziness called vertigo • Migraine • Stress or anxiety • Low blood sugars (usually seen in diabetics) • Sudden fall in blood pressure when you sit or stand up.

This goes away after lying down.

• Dehydration (caused by not drinking, vomiting, diarrhea or fever).

• Decreased blood flow in the he brain, which may be caused by blocked blood vessels.

Other causes of dizziness By taking a good history your doctor has to establish exactly what you mean by dizziness and determine if you are not actually describing vertigo where you feel your surroundings are spinning or moving around.

It is also important to know: • Did it start for no apparent reason, or if it followed an illness • Are they repeated episodes of dizziness • How long does the dizziness last

• A severe illness that is affecting your whole body • Drugs and alcohol • Some medication, like antidepressants or blood pressure medication • Heart rhythm problem If you have any concerns, you should talk to your trusted medical practitioner or you may contact Good Practice Clinic.

Dr Steven Graaff,MD,MRCGP, the founder of Good Practice Clinic is a graduate of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Before completing his formal training in General Practice in the UK, he has worked in several hospitals, occupational health and general practice in the Netherlands and the UK. As a medical professional with international experience,Steven decided to start his own clinic – Good Practice, in Jakarta

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Indonesia expat ISSUE 212

Jl. Bangka Raya #106B Jakarta 12730 Tel. +62-21-7183140 info@goodpractice.co.id www.goodpractice.co.id

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