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cr ip bs su ISSUE NO. 264 | 2 SEPTEMBER – 6 OCTOBER 2020

JAKARTA • JAVA • BALI • LOMBOK • KALIMANTAN • SUMATRA • SULAWESI • WEST PAPUA

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Virtual Travel: the Future of Travel after the Coronavirus Surrealist Olivier Lamboray What does it Mean to be a Good Tourist in Indoesia? And many more...

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Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

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06 Are you sick of being home for the majority of 2020? We’re all used to travelling around, either for business or pleasure, but the COVID-19 pandemic has definitely hindered our travel plans. Luckily, Indonesia is boosting its domestic tourism, so you can explore this archipelago’s wonders even further!

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Unfortunately, Indonesia isn’t opening its international borders for foreign tourism yet. But this shouldn’t stop you getting some much-needed R&R from your mundane daily routine – that is, if you’re currently staying in Indonesia. Perhaps you’re not ready to board a plane considering the many misconceptions of COVID-19 positive cases sparked on flights and other public transportations. Consider going on road trips across Java or expand to other islands like Bali and Sumatra by car. With local attractions opening, hotels and travel destinations throughout the country are following strict health protocols, as well as offering interesting promotions for the time being. Let Indonesia Expat guide you in this Travel and Tourism issue with hidden gems in Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, beach clubs, and the beloved Island of Gods, Bali. We spoke to several CEOs of hotel management who will ensure your favourite spots are well-kept and serviced despite the pandemic still going on. If you’re not up to travel anytime soon, bookmark these stories for your next escapade. Don’t forget to check out daily news updates at indonesiaexpat.biz. Follow our Instagram and Facebook accounts @indonesiaexpat to stay updated on the daily COVID-19 cases and news, as well as attractive promotions from your favourite hotels, restaurants, and schools.

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ACTIVITIES The Future of Tourism with CEOs in Hotel Management

08 FOOD AND DRINK Senopati’s New Cosy Dining “Home”, The Front Room

10 LOCAL HANDICRAFT Travel to South Kalimantan: Women Artisans as Global Changemakers

12 ART AND CULTURE Surrealist Olivier Lamboray Chased the Colour Blue in Bali and Found It

14 GETAWAY Explore the Unspoiled Beauty of Pagar Alam in South Sumatera

16 VIRTUAL REALITY Virtual Travel: the Future of Travel After the Coronavirus

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INFO FOR EXPATS Foreign Direct Investment and Indonesia’s Opportunity

Edo Frese

20 TRAVEL What does It Mean to be a Good Tourist in Indonesia?

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Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

The Future of Tourism with CEOs in Hotel Management I think getting international tourists to travel anywhere, including Indonesia, for the rest of this year is going to be incredibly difficult so I think focusing on domestic tourism is the way to go.

JOHN FLOOD

PATRICK VAYSSE

ndonesia Expat brought together a couple of CEOs from hotels you love around the world. We spoke to Patrick Vaysse (PV), CEO of Tauzia Hotels, and John Flood (JF), President and CEO of Archipelago International, about their various efforts to instil a great, safe, and wholesome business or leisure stay at any of their properties during this challenging time. Get to know more about Tauzia Hotels and Archipelago International.

The initiative covers nine commitments, including: 1. Our staff ’s work environment 2. Guest safety 3. Physical distancing 4. Housekeeping 5. Rooms 6. Food and beverages 7. Shared facilities 8. Contactless and paperless 9. Our vendors

Regardless if the public is aware of Archipelago International, what is it that you wish they knew more about the brand? JF: There is, indeed, a huge public awareness and our signature brand, ASTON, is the proud winner of 2019’s YouGov Brand Index in the category “Top Brand Health” focussing, on general impression, value, quality, and corporate reputation but if there’s one thing I want everyone to remember us for, it’s the fact that we stay true to ourselves and our stakeholders; that we stick to our values and really want to make a positive impact on the communities in which we operate and give back to them.

JF: At a very early stage, we implemented significant health, safety, and disinfecting measures across all our hotels to ensure the health and wellbeing of our employees and guests. We were the first hotel group to implement a large scale rapid test campaign for all employees and we have also been recognised as a “SafeTravels” hotel group by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

How has the company adapted to the “new normal”? PV: As a member of The Ascott Limited, we recently launched “Ascott Cares” to deliver stringent hygiene and cleanliness standards as well as safe distancing to continuously provide safe stays for guests and a safe working environment for staff. Some of these measures include increased sanitation in rooms and public areas, regular temperature screenings, and the use of personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves for staff. Safe physical distancing will be part of the new normal and digital solutions will be deployed to minimise contact while providing added convenience and safety to guests.

What are your thoughts on Indonesia and its eagerness to boost tourism and the economy amidst the COVID-19 pandemic? PV: While it certainly is a positive move to start to boost our tourism again, the reopening of key tourism areas must be carried out with proper implementation of Cleanliness, health, and safety (CHS) protocols according to guidelines from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and local authorities. It's important to continuously communicate these CHS protocols so that travellers have a proper understanding of the “new-normal” way of travelling. JF: I think the government is doing an admirable job of trying to figure the crisis out considering the very difficult circumstances. It’s understandable they want tourism and business to get back to some kind of normality so balancing this along with public safety concerns is a job I wouldn’t want to be doing.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created set backs and challenges. Can you describe what they are and how your company is tackling these issues? PV: Since the beginning of the pandemic, our main priority has always been the safety of our guests and employees. On top of that, we’re also committed to assisting the community in need. In the first few months, while some of our hotels suspended their operations to support government measures to protects its citizens, we worked to support medical professionals and hospital workers with a few initiatives such as distributed readyto-eat meals to selected hospitals across Indonesia and partnered with Kitabisa.com to raise funds for the much-needed personal protective equipment. In some areas, our hotels worked together with the local government by providing accommodation for returning citizens too. During the implementation of the largescale social restrictions, some of our hotels continued to provide various attractive food and beverage offerings for people staying at home with our food delivery services. At a later stage, we prepared our hotels to enhance the hygiene and cleanliness standards so we’re well-equipped to welcome guests back when they are ready to travel with the launch of “Ascott Cares”. Currently, while travel between regions and nation’s are still quite restricted, staycation packages have been popular for people seeking a short escape within their cities. Some of our hotels provide unique staycation experiences such as outdoor activities and tempting dining offers, all presented within a safe and hygienic environment. JF: The hospitality industry has been one of the hardest hit and a number of hotels have had to cease business early on due to travel restrictions and entertainment and dining limitations, effectively cutting off vital revenue sources. We made smart financial decisions early on and are proud to say that, although salary cuts have been implemented, we have managed to retain most of our team members. Meanwhile, 98 percent of our hotels are open and ready to welcome guests. Domestic tourists are slowly roaming around the country and soon international borders will welcome tourists from abroad. What strategies has Tauzia Hotels and Archipelago International enforced to give safety assurances while staying at the company’s properties? PV: The “Ascott Cares” initiative covers extensive procedures that are in compliance with the WHO and local regulations; all designed to give guests and employees full confidence and a greater peace of mind.

JF: We clearly owe our success and our resilience to domestic tourism, which has always been our main target market. International destinations, such as Bali for example, have suffered the most setbacks. Whether domestic or international guests, everybody can rest assured that our health and safety protocols will ensure their wellbeing. In addition to the protocols, we are the only hotel group conducting largescale rapid tests for hotel employees. Putting in such a great effort to keep our employees safe is a strong testament to our commitment and shall encourage any guest to come to us, relax, and enjoy their stay. Archipelago International is not only in Indonesia but also in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Cuba. How are the properties in these countries doing and what future plans are in store? JF: The hotels fully comply with their respective governments' regulations and in the case of Cuba, our recommended safety and health protocols have received great recognition and serves as q prime example for other hotels. This is especially remarkable, considering the excellent health standards Cuba is globally known for, not to mention the number of doctors and health specialists the country sent across the world to fight COVID-19 at the very early stage of the outbreak. As far as future plans go for us, we just opened our fifth property in Cuba bringing up our total inventory to 3,000 keys there, thus making us one of the largest operators on the island. Archipelago International focuses on developing regions, and you’ve admitted to having little interest in moving to developed markets, like Europe. Why is that? JF: We started our business two decades ago in Indonesia and one of the biggest rewards has been our development of the local workforce. All our general managers are Indonesians and that includes many women. As we continue to grow, we remain focused on our purpose and we actively go to places where we can celebrate similar successes and create similar impacts. As a matter of fact, the reason why we operate in Cuba today is because our efforts in Indonesia were recognised by the Cuban government and we were approached by the Cuban Embassy. We accepted the kind invitation with open arms and it”s been a wonderful journey ever since. Meanwhile, we are launching our first hotels in Saudi Arabia, including two properties in the holy city of Mecca, which will give Indonesian pilgrims wonderful options to stay at trusted hotels they have known from home. What makes Tauzia Hotels different compared to other hotel management companies? PV: TAUZIA Hotels’ portfolio offers six lifestyle brands that cater to a wide range of markets, from budget hotels to upscale boutique hotels.

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

1. Préférence: a label for a collection of charming and discreet boutique hotels 2. Vertu: upscale hotels with the ‘Joy of Life’ concept 3. HARRIS: upper midscale hotels promoting healthy lifestyle 4. FOX: midscale hotels with contemporary and adaptable design 5. YELLO: midscale hotels for aspiring travelers who appreciate creative design and technology 6. POP!: economy hotels for smart and ecofriendly travelers These brands offer unique hospitality experiences for travellers across our 133 hotels. Furthermore, as a member of The Ascott Limited (Ascott), we are a part of one of the leading international lodging owner-operators. Ascott is a wholly owned subsidiary of CapitaLand Limited, of Asia’s largest real estate companies headquartered and listed in Singapore. How do the companies incorporate each country’s culture? PV: We always strive to incorporate the culture of each country and region in the hotel’s activities and offers. For example, to celebrate the recent opening of FOX Hotel Jayapura Papua, we held a Cut and Paste Collage Competition with the theme, “Pearl of the East”, encouraging participants to submit their artworks inspired by the culture of Papua. Our hotels also present various F&B offers unique to their regions. JF: Through the combination of hiring locally and being receptive, culturally-aware and open to change. We don’t go to a country and “enforce” standards. Instead, we carefully evaluate how our standards can be moulded, so they can fit into the culture while getting the best out of the local teams and gaining their full commitment and loyalty. What 2020 trends have you noticed in the hospitality industry? PV: Most of the current 2020 trends are undoubtedly adapting the “newnormal” way of living. One of them is the implementation of digital solutions such as cashless and contactless payment methods and introduction of QR codes to access menus, room directories, and other hotel information. Staycations have been gaining popularity in the past couple of months, especially for travellers who are yearning for a holiday but sstill would like to limit their travels to other areas. JF: Clearly all “trends” have been shaped by the “new-normal”, from social distancing to new cleaning standards, and more. Serving guests used to focus on being close to them and attending in-person. Now, we are expected to keep distance and deliver much of our service in a virtual environment. We will have to wait and see what happens next and how things eventually play out, but one thing we can say for sure is that more and more touch points will disappear for good or at least for a very long time. How long do you think the hospitality industry in Indonesia will take to recover from the pandemic? PV: Since this is an unprecedented situation, I think it’ll be quite challenging to predict

business profile

how long the recovery will take. While the healthcare industry is working on vaccines, it is our responsibility to work together to rebuild the hospitality industry in a safe manner and also to create better and safer experiences for travellers. JF: By the end of the year, we expect business to be back to about 70 percent of normal but to get back to pre-COVID numbers could take two or three years, unfortunately. A lot of it will depend on if a vaccine becomes available and whether domestic tourism will be the real driver in most countries for the next year. What’s next for Tauzia Hotels and Archipelago International? PV: Amidst the challenging climate for the hospitality industry, we continue to grow our network in Asia. This year alone, we managed to secure contracts for seven new properties with over 1,200 rooms in Jakarta, Bogor, Bandung, Batam, and Phu Nhuan in Vietnam. We also recently opened our new properties in Bangka and Makassar, and added our first property in the Papua Province.

ASTON PANORAMA HOTEL, HAVANA, CUBA

JF: We’ll continue our overseas development in the Middle East, Cuba, and around Asia. In Indonesia, we expect to see a lot of rebranding coming in the next year. Guests are looking for hotels they can really trust and branded hotels will be top of people's lists. Only 6 percent of hotels in Indonesia are branded, although 36 percent of total room inventory is included in this 6 percent, so there are plenty of opportunities for a reputable management company like ours that’s strong in the domestic market and have great relationships with our travel partners and OTA’s. The pandemic has sped up the move to ecommerce and online bookings – this is a particular strength of ours so the timing is really working in our favour. Moving on to you, John. Please tell us about yourself. JF: I live a pretty simple life and really enjoy living and working in Indonesia – the people are great and the country is amazing – totally unique. I like to spend time with my wife and daughter, play tennis, and grow our business. My business partner and mentor, Charles Brookfield, is great to work with in developing new ideas and keeping things on track. Along with our great corporate and hotel teams, we’ve been in more contact than ever over the past six months so, although the situation has been very bad, it’s been great to find how well the whole group works under extreme pressure and still pulls trough with a smile in some very difficult circumstances. Personally, where will you travel to given the time and opportunity? JF: For me and my family, we always like to go to Ireland to see family and friends and spend some quality time in my hometown of Dublin. For sure, as soon as we can travel, that will be the first overseas journey we’ll be making. If you could give one tip to our readers who wish to travel for business or leisure during this challenging time, what would it be? PV: Lately, it seems that more and more travellers are interested in travelling like a local. This topic resonates with today's

modern travellers who seek exotic countries, remote places, and unique experiences. We want to feel the authentic life, see it with our own eyes, capture it on our cameras, and be accepted by local communities, to create a bond we can share later through our stories. But there is still something missing. It seems that many people, ourselves included, kind of forgot that there is always a place where we can travel like a local. Actually, it's a place where it is not possible to get a more raw, more real, more authentic travel experience. It is our home country, our own backyard. JF: My advice would be pretty simple. Assume you have COVID-19 so you are careful how you handle things and deal with people so you don’t infect them. Also assume everyone you meet has COVID-19, so protect yourself from them and keep a safe distance. This thing could be around for a while so for me, people still need to live some kind of a normal life – they just need to adapt accordingly, follow all the protocols we’ve heard constantly over the past few months, and stay safe. What do you like to do in your free time? PV: I enjoy walking. Despite the obvious cardiovascular benefits, walking is a great

way to clear your head, let off some steam, and just enjoy the outdoors. You can walk a trail at your local park or just walk your neighborhood after dinner or during the weekend. Cooking, too. Forget about prepackaged mixes and store-bought cans — there's something about cooking and baking from scratch that feels almost spiritual. Maybe it's the creative aspect of pulling it all together, tasting, and adjusting along the way to be sure your recipe is just right. Maybe it's the satisfaction of seeing your creation turn out well, a manifestation of all the love and intention that went into making it. Maybe it's the presentation, with all the little drizzles and sprinkles that turn your dish into art. JF: Spending time with my family would be number one. I try to ensure a good work-life balance so I start every day about 6am to ensure I have time to spend with them later in the day. Like anybody running a large company, the reality is that even if you do get free time, you’re really only every 80 percent there – the other 20 percent is thinking about business or mulling over stuff. Luckily though, I view my work as a never ending hobby, so I guess in one sense I’m always free.

food and drink

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Senopati’s New Cosy Dining “Home”, The Front Room BY MIRELLA PANDJAITAN

Is Senopati synonymous with epic nights out for you? Or is Senopati merely a place to get your international food cravings fixed? Senopati is indeed a one-stop wonder to cater your food and beverage needs – not to forget home to lively nightlife. In the day time, you can have meetings and at night you can let off some steam with friends and family, all accompanied by decadent dishes and revitalising concoctions of alcoholic delights. Sometimes, it gets hard to keep up with this South Jakarta area’s newest and hippest dining spots. The Front Room, on the other hand, is remarkable because it feels just like home – or at least your friend’s home. Nestled on Jl. Suryo No.23 in South Jakarta, The Front Room stands out with its blue walls. The restaurant’s greeter will open the large, dark, wooden door to welcome you with, of course, a thermometer check and a pump of hand sanitiser. A part of the restaurant’s ground f loor has dimmed lighting with yellow-orange tungsten sidelights on a mirror, giving guests a relaxing sensation. If you come during the day, as I did, the other part of the room is beaming; highlighting the colourful set of furniture ready to be sat upon and an absolutely picturesque spot for the photo frenzied people of this era. The founder of The Front Room said she wants the signage and logo outside, as well as the interior decor and ambience, to embody a pleasant visit to someone’s home. “Guests should feel homey when they come here,” she said. As someone who comes from a hospitality background and an apparent empty nester, she wanted to start something new for the saturated market by providing an exquisite experience accompanied by a collection of multi-cultural cuisines. This casual dining restaurant does look like a home. The ground floor reminds me of a living room; comfy sofas, heaps of pillows, soft cushions, colourful carpets, and plants in almost all corners of the room.

The Front Room Jl. Suryo No.23, Senopati, South Jakarta, Indonesia Tel: +62 21 7201566 Mobile: +62 813 82511168 IG: @thefrontroom.id Operating Hours (New Normal): Sundays-Thursday: 12-10pm Friday-Saturday: 12-11pm

Meanwhile, the second floor is warmer and dimmer, making it a great alternative to recharge; accentuated by more blues, yellows, and golds, all serving as dominant colours illuminated with tungsten lightbulbs. There’s a bar table on this floor as well. Though the founder doesn’t consider The Front Room to be a bar, guests who wish to have refreshing cocktails and other alcoholic treats are more than welcome. Since this restaurant doesn’t allow smoking in its indoor areas, unlike most Senopati spots, a terrace just through a glass sliding door beside the bar is still homey for smokers to enjoy a puff and their drinks while overlooking Senopati’s oddly quiet road, which happens to be a huge hit for guests after office hours. The Front Room opened in February 2020, not long before the large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) was enforced by DKI

Jakarta’s provincial government. Following the regulations and strict health protocols, the restaurant reopened two months later, providing takeaway and delivery services. During PSBB, no marketing strategies were undertaken, because safety and comfort levels for one person to another while ordering takeout is considered rather personal and different. Only returning guests and foodies who discovered this restaurant through word of mouth made orders at that time. Time to relish in Western and Asian comfort foods inspired by global flavours and quality seasonal ingredients while you’re here - side note: pork is available! I had the pleasure to try seven dishes: three light bites, namely chicken skewers over shishito peppers, nachos, and petite soft tacos; two mains of spaghetti crispy chicken and mulwarra lamb chop; along with two desserts which were vanilla-infused pannacotta and lemongrass jelly. The chef didn’t hold back on spices, making each dish perfectly seasoned and cooked – fixing my strong Mexican cravings. Some of the guests’ favourites, such as nachos, crispy wings, butternut squash soup, tokusen MB5 ribeye steak, chicken over garlic rice, tokusen MB5 ribeye fajitas, naughty chocolate martini, sangria, and margaritas are worth the try too. Then at 2-6pm, a table on the ground floor serves three cakes of the day, which change

daily. Today, the chocolate marble, banana, and caramel cakes were on display. Each is sweet and baked soft as a swan-feathered pillow, ideal for afternoon tea or coffee – whichever you prefer. There’s something crispy, savoury, tangy, light, spicy, and sweet to your liking! Uniquely, the menu changes at least every month. The founder and chef, Deddy, determines and curates the menu. The Front Room continuously innovates to satisfy guests, not just stay still because people tend to be bored with the same options when they dine in a restaurant. The dishes are curated based on the fresh ingredients they can get their hands on. Roughly speaking, the restaurant sets a price range from Rp75,000 to Rp390,000. Referring back to the homey feeling embodied here, events are not a priority. No externally curated events have been held but the restaurant doesn’t shy away from live music sessions playing classic, early 2000s hits simplified to jazz arrangements before PSBB. Wonder how the new menu will be stirred up next month? Well, dine in Senopati’s new cosy, casual dining restaurant; The Front Room is truly a culinary escapade for everyone.

Starting a Hospitality Business in Indonesia: The Hassle-Free Guide Indonesia has been gaining strong visibility on the international travellers' map with constant growth over the past years. The number of foreign tourist arrivals increased by approximately six percent from 2018 to 2019. The COVID-19 crisis hit the hospitality industry hard. However, with the “new normal” approach, the industry is slowly but surely recovering from the crisis. The comeback of domestic travel is highly anticipated, especially with strong support from the Indonesian government. Local travellers can enjoy discounts. Incentives are given to travel agencies and airlines. Hotels and restaurants in certain destinations are eligible for tax waivers. In addition to the COVID-19-related incentives, the Indonesian government has implemented numerous plans, including easing the restrictions for the visa (a visa-free travel policy for 169 countries) and foreign investments. Furthermore, the “10 New Bali” project is also underway, aiming to target ten places all over Indonesia, namely Lombok Mandalika, Lake Toba in North Sumatra, the Thousand Islands in Jakarta, Tanjung Lesung in Banten, Mount Bromo in East Java, Borobudur in Central Java, Wakatobi in South Sulawesi, Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara, Tanjung Kelayang Beach in Bangka Belitung and Morotai Island in North Maluku, to be attractive tourist destinations that are just as popular as Bali.

POTENTIAL SECTORS TO DIVE INTO The hospitality industry in Indonesia comprises many sectors. We have selected several potential sectors that are worth diving into for foreign investors. • Accommodation Now is a good time to start an accommodation business in Indonesia, mainly because property prices are experiencing a sharp decrease of between 20 and 50 percent in many areas in Indonesia, particularly in Bali.

To start, foreign investors are required to secure an accommodation licence and a building permit. Depending on the accommodation type and the number of rooms, there are several types of accommodation licences, but the most frequent ones are homestay, hotel and villa licences.

COMPANY REGISTRATION OPTIONS FOR BUYING PROPERTY OR LAND IN INDONESIA

To rent out an Airbnb villa that has between three to five rooms with a land size of less than 1,000 m2, a homestay licence known as Pondok Wisata Licence is required. This option is open only to solo entrepreneurs. For villas or rental properties with more than five rooms with a land size of more than 1,000 m2, a Villa Licence would be required instead.

• Foreign Owned Company (PT PMA) Establishing a PT PMA allows foreigners to secure the HGB. The name of a foreign-owned company will be stated in the land certificate. The main advantages of establishing a PT PMA include fully protected ownership through a legal agreement, permission to construct property and income earning through selling or renting the property.

Foreigners who want to have 100 percent foreign ownership can choose to open a hotel (three-star, fourstar or five-star hotel) or a villa. The right accommodation licence for a hotel is a Starred Hotel Licence. It may also be necessary to secure other licences such as an environmental licence, a sanitation licence and an alcohol licence (SIUP-MB).

There are two possible entity options for foreigners who are interested in buying property or land in Indonesia: Foreign Owned Company (PT PMA) or Locally Owned Company (PT).

• Locally Owned Company (PT) As mentioned, the Freehold Title can only be granted to Indonesian nationals. Foreigners wishing to secure a Freehold Title for land or property need to set up a PT instead. Foreign individuals who are not interested in setting up a PT PMA or a PT in Indonesia but want to own property can secure the Leasehold Right. The property can then be used for commercial purposes, such as starting an accommodation business, a restaurant business or a retreat business, with the right Licence.

• Retreat Retreats are particularly popular in a tourist-packed destination like Bali. Yoga, health and wellness, luxury and outdoor retreats are the most common ones. To organise a retreat in Bali, foreign investors are required to have a company established in Bali. Once established, the company needs to obtain a business licence. Furthermore, an Indonesia temporary stay permit known as KITAS or ITAS is required as well for foreign workers or the foreign director. • Culinary Starting a culinary business is a dream of many. Opening a restaurant or a coffee shop allows 100 percent foreign ownership in Indonesia. After completing the company registration process, foreign investors need to obtain a Tourism Licence (TDUP) and additional Licences (if necessary) such as SIUP-MB and Business Identification Number for Excise (NPPBKC).

PT PMA and PT are also the options available to start a hospitality business. Business activities that allow 100 percent foreign ownership can be run after the establishment of a PT PMA. Business activities that are partially or fully closed to foreign ownership can be run after the establishment of a PT.

BUILDING PERMIT IN INDONESIA Building Permit (IMB) is a building registration document that states the purpose of a building, either for commercial or residential purposes. IMB is used not only for building construction at the beginning but also throughout the entire period. All buildings in Indonesia are required to secure an IMB. Whether buying or renting, ensuring that the proper use of the building is in accordance with the written objectives on the IMB is a must. To secure an IMB, these documents must be prepared: a land certificate, plot permit (izin kavling), building drawings, correct land zoning, signed permission from owners of neighbouring buildings, and service and structural drawings.

CONSULT WITH SPECIALISTS Starting a hospitality business in Indonesia will certainly be an exciting and rewarding journey. However, without a seamless start, it can be difficult to proceed to the next step. This is when consultation with business incorporation specialists in Indonesia comes into play. Complying with local regulations of company establishment, permit and right acquisition, among others, may be challenging to foreign investors. For a step-by-step guide, consult a reliable business consultant for free on https://go.cekindo.com/hospitality-business. As part of InCorp Group in Singapore, Cekindo is a leading consulting company in Indonesia and Vietnam providing integrated market-entry and corporate services. Become one of our satisfied clients, jumpstart your business now.

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local handicraft

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Travel to South Kalimantan: Women Artisans as Global Changemakers BY CISCA LIM (DU ANYAM)

Peatlands, which are natural wet areas dominated by an accumulation of peats or organic matter, mostly vegetation, are critical in preserving global flora and fauna biodiversity, minimising flood risk, providing clean water, reducing greenhouse effects, and more. Peatlands are highly significant to global efforts to combat climate change. Since large amounts of carbon are locked away in peat soils, they also help address climate change. When damaged, peatlands have the potential to release an estimated 1.3 gigatonnes of CO2 annually. As a comparison, the recorded annual carbon emission in Jakarta is around 200 million tonnes. In other words, the impact will be 6,500 times worse than what we as urbanites have already faced in recent years. To ensure that peatlands continue to thrive and are safe from destruction, it’s imperative to engage the local community as the key guardians in every possible way.

When these women artisans see how purun crafts can be used as corporate gifts or baskets as elegant home decor, the desire to further empower themselves while caring for peatlands will come hand in hand, naturally.

NOKEN

or generations, women artisans across Indonesia have been creating unique weaves from locally sourced materials. Weaving traditions can be traced as far back as the pre-colonial era, where remnants of handwoven mats were found along with other historical items, further defining its importance as a part of Indonesian heritage and identity. Different forms of beautiful Nusantara weaves are still being made today for us to enjoy. Papuan women are known to weave out Noken baskets made from the bark of trees. In East Nusa Tenggara, women weavers make Sobe; three-dimensional traditional baskets using palmyra leaves. From South Kalimantan, we have Bakul Purun, which are traditional containers and bags made from purun plants. Purun, the Gem of South Kalimantan Peatlands Purun is a long grass-like plant that grows naturally in peatlands that are abundant in South Kalimantan. The art of purun weaving has long been culturally significant to the local communities. It’s a heritage handicraft due to the versatility of the material which can be woven into various shapes and be used for different functions.

Traditional Weaving and Solving Global Environment Issues The Peat Restorative Agency is tasked to coordinate and facilitate peatland hydrological restoration due to excessive burning and drainage. It has recently partnered with Du Anyam to work with weaving communities located in four villages of Hulu Sungai Utara, South Kalimantan Pulantani, Tambak Sari Panji, Murung Panggang, and Tuhuran. Du Anyam is a social enterprise that has been working with women weaver communities since 2014 in over 54 rural villages in East Nusa Tenggara and Papua. Through comprehensive training, upskilling, mentoring, and capacity building programs for local women weavers, the heritage handicrafts have received positive responses from national and international markets and was selected as the official Asian Games merchandiser in 2018. Du Anyam is now working alongside purun weaving artisans to co-create and promote modern, well-designed, practical products that aim to serve and appeal to business as well as retail customers, to increase its product value, and to expand the market, generating a stable income for purun weavers. In the hope to create more peatland advocates – rural and urban, young and mature – other than innovative multi-purpose purun weaved collections, Du Anyam is producing a purun children’s storybook to educate the whole family. The children’s book will also be available free to the purun weaving community, to reinforce and instil pride in them as bold guardians of the peatlands. Protecting Them Is Protecting All of Us When we talk about peatlands protection, it’s undeniable that the local community are important stakeholders. The dream is that every purun weaver in South Kalimantan can believe in the value of their hand-weaving creations and that purun weaving will become a viable economic activity for them, thereby getting their active support to protect the wetlands from land misuse and burning. When these women artisans see how purun crafts can be used as corporate gifts or baskets as elegant home decor, the desire to further empower themselves while caring for peatlands will come hand in hand, naturally. For this to work, it has to start where it matters. Climate change is a global issue, and protecting peatlands is very much the job for all of us. Support the use of purun products today and together weave a better tomorrow for our children.

SOBE

This has, however, been changing. Drainage, burning and mining, commercial forestry or agricultural conversion, and other forms of severe exploitations have been progressively threatening the peatlands over the years. The peatlands of South Kalimantan are no exception, with data showing 60 percent of the total area being damaged as of 2018.

©IVAN HERMAWAN

HOUSE OF BELASUN, THE MOST RELAXING GETAWAY IN PELABUHAN RATU

Pelabuhan Ratu is a lovely holiday resort of breathtaking beauty with hills, mountains and very wide sandy beaches everywhere around, set against the deep blue Indian Ocean. It is around 125 km from Jakarta and can be easily reached by car. The surroundings offer a wide range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, hiking, rafting and fishing.

House of Belasun is a luxurious contemporary estate with hints of the local culture that offers one rooftop suite and two standalone villas. Situated on a higher location, House of Belasun offers tranquil views, sensational sunsets and a luxurious stay. The site offers many exciting facilities with friendly and helpful staff taking care of your every need. The privately-owned 6,000 m2 development is only minutes away from the beach, a short drive to the city and close to a wide range of family-friendly attractions. House of Belasun can accommodate up to 14 guests and the rooms can be rented individually or by a group.

Each room is only steps away from the stunning swimming pool and has air-conditioning, a ceiling fan, cable television, highspeed internet, a fridge, luxury bathroom with rain shower and a large terrace with a daybed and seating area to enjoy the green surroundings, astonishing views and the relaxing sound of the waves. The Panoramic Suite has a large private terrace including a fully equipped kitchen, open living room with a smart TV and sound system and is therefore very suited for long-term stay. The Executive Villa is the most luxurious villa and is ideal for couples. The Family Villa consists of two separate rooms, one with a kingsize bed and the other with two single beds and is ideal for families with children or small groups.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS www.houseofbelasun.com

houseofbelasun

art and culture

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Surrealist Olivier Lamboray Chased the Colour Blue in Bali and Found It Belgian surrealist painter Olivier Lamboray has lived in Bali for about 20 years. Appreciated worldwide for his highly recognisable work that’s been exhibited everywhere, he acknowledges that contrary to many foreign painters having settled in Bali, he has absolutely no fascination for either Bali or Indonesia. Except for one thing that is now his trademark: the colour blue.

BY ERIC BUVELOT

He has received many awards and grand prizes at Gemlucart in Monaco, RankArt, Artempo, and Cotation Drouot in France, as well as Kunzfetti Competition in the Netherlands, to name a few. When asked about how many paintings he has produced in his life, he’s not sure of the number, “maybe 300 or 400,” he said.

orget Walter Spies, Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur, or Antonio Blanco. With Olivier Lamboray, there is not much of Bali on the canvas. “Indonesia; it’s not me. And Hinduism, well… it’s far too complicated,” said the 51-year-old citizen of Waterloo. No, what matters to him in the Indonesian archipelago is the colour up above.

But when asked about why he became a painter, the answer sparks fast and clear: it’s psychoanalysis. “From one canvas to another, I dig a little bit deeper,” he confessed. “My exBalinese wife was at the centre of my work. I’m a romantic person. But now, I’m ready for the next step,” he rapidly added.

“The one and only thing I’ve got from living here is the colour of the sky. I’ve been working on the colour blue for many years and yes, it’s now in every single painting I do,” he explained with a characteristic, unhurried, and level voice.

Olivier Lamboray seems to be obsessed with the idea of time, hence his latest compulsion with clocks. “Time is important. Impermanence, evaporation, and dissipation are important concepts to me. Now that I am into clocks, I intend to symbolise the idea of a vortex, the idea of teleportation – all my clocks are empty. They bring you through a space-time continuum,” he explained with excitement.

Olivier Lamboray is a very articulate person, maybe because of his maths and physics background, in solid contrast to the usual cliché of the wandering Western painter lost on some exotic tropical island. Well, not exactly – he did that too. He lived like a castaway for six years in the Andaman Sea, alone on a secluded islet where he painted but also had to fish every day for survival. Originating from a wealthy family of the Belgian bourgeoisie, Olivier Lamboray’s life has been a long search for how to break the scientific lineage with his physician father. Also, it’s about how to reconnect with him once he had encountered some success in his trade and proved to his father that art could also be a serious matter worthy of interest.

In his previous work, some Balinese elements appeared in several of his paintings, but it is completely over at present, as is his marriage. “Now, I paint some Belgian,” he said, reminding us how deeply rooted into Belgian culture surrealism is.

Olivier Lamboray says about himself that he is a typical Belgian surrealist painter and refers to Rene Magritte or Paul Delvaux as his major influences. “Surrealism is a Belgian thing,” according to him and it indeed has little to do with tropical languor and warm Gauguin style.

The composition of “his” blue is a secret he will not reveal and it is probably his most significant signature. It’s perhaps what makes a painting a Lamboray nowadays. Not to forget an obsession with disappearing buildings and lately empty clockworks, his latest recurrent painting fixation, like a reflection on the “space-time continuum and the illusion of reality,” he asserted.

He likes to paint trains, cars, and buildings in surrealistic settings. But he also likes to paint his ex-Balinese wife in many pieces he made for years. This was likely his second major local influence, after the colour blue, concedes this father of one.

Perfectly reconciled with his father now, the artist has had a long and fructuous career to prove his talent and value worldwide and bring his canvases almost everywhere. He’s had many successful exhibitions in Belgium, the USA, Monaco, Italy, England, France,

Thailand, Netherlands, Indonesia, and Guinea. He’s represented in catalogues like Mahlstedt Gallery in New York; International Art Fairs by ArtMagna Federation in Germany, Luxembourg, and Belgium; Velvenoir in Austria; Saatchi Gallery of London; and Le Troisieme Acte in Brussels.

Now that I am into clocks, I intend to symbolise the idea of a vortex, the idea of teleportation – all my clocks are empty. They bring you through a space-time continuum.

He built his career without much personal strategy and has had little contact with agents, except for one in France. For him, everything came together step by step, “one thing leading to another,” like he mentioned several times about how fast his name grew the last couple of years and being invited everywhere to receive prizes and awards. He is already featured on Art Price, the world leader of art market information. This year, Olivier Lamboray will be exhibiting his latest masterpieces in places as diverse as Manoir Pirenne (Belgium), Toowoomba Grammar Art Show (Australia), Bremerhaven (Germany), and next year in Brussels (Belgium) and Amsterdam (The Netherlands). “I have nothing more to learn from Indonesia now. When my daughter reaches adulthood, I’ll be ready for new endeavours and probably move somewhere. For sure, I’ll discover a new culture for myself, but not for my art. It’s my personal quest. My artwork represents something big for my fellow countrymen: the Belgians. My paintings mirror our culture and education,” he concluded in his simple house, located in a housing complex in the outskirts of Denpasar.

www.olamboray.com

OLIVIER LAMBORAY

getaway

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Explore the Unspoiled Beauty of Pagar Alam in South Sumatera BY ARNALDI NASRUM

outh Sumatera is famous for its tasty local food - “pempek” - and the magnificent Musi River in Palembang. If you’ve been there, you may take a selfie with the background of Ampera Bridge. But have you visited Pagar Alam regency to see another face of South Sumatera? Pagar Alam is located in the northern area of South Sumatera and is seven hours away from Palembang by car. To be noted, Pagar Alam is situated in the highlands where it’s flanked by mountains and hills. Consequently, compared to Palembang, the temperature in Pagar Alam is low and will make you feel rather comfortable. Pagar Alam offers many attractive places to discover ranging from mountains and waterfalls to tea plantations. The beautiful nature is mesmerising and has easy access to visitors. If you need some fresh air away from the city and crowds, Pagar Alam is an awesome alternative destination.

Mount Dempo Mount Dempo is the top tourist attraction in Pagar Alam, where you can hike up to the peak and enjoy some beautiful scenery. It gives you a sweeping view of tree lines, green hills, and rivers. Not surprisingly, hiking is very popular in Mount Dempo as it will challenge you to conquer the highest mount in South Sumatera with a summit elevation of 3,173 metres above sea level. For a professional hiker, it takes about five hours or more. A guide isn’t required but you still need to get a permit at the starting point for your safety.

What makes Dempo unique is the tea plantation on its outskirts. You can find the blanket of green stretching along, all the way to the mount. This wonderful tea plantation is spread out as far as you can see – beautiful scenery to the eyes. Almost every day, tea pickers come to the plantations to pick the young tea leaves. They’re very friendly and will welcome you with warm smiles or chitchat if you can speak Bahasa Indonesia. If you’re unwilling to hike up to the top, visiting the mountainside by car or walking around is a good option. You’ll find various plants around the tea plantation such as guava, cassava, eggplants, chilli, coffee, and many kinds of f lowers. At one of the mountainsides, Basecamp Kampung IV is a spot where you can see the spectacular view of the city of Pagar Alam from the top, which is truly amazing. You can also camp in this area to enjoy the sensation of sleeping under the stars and savour the sunrise in the morning. To reach the foothill of Mount Dempo, visitors can drive for approximately 15 kilometres from the city centre of Pagar Alam.

Beautiful Waterfalls The waterfalls are one of the attractions that shouldn’t be missed when you visit Pagar Alam. There are three waterfalls worth exploring since they are still natural and beautiful: Embun (Dew), Tujuh Kenangan (Seven Memories), and Mangkok (Bowl). These spots are close to each other so it doesn’t take too much time to explore.

Pagar Alam offers many attractive places to discover ranging from mountains and waterfalls to tea plantations.

Compared to Embun and Tujuh Kenangan, Mangkok Waterfall looks different because it has a flat contour and is known as a typical bowled waterfall, as it’s named. The water drops and spreads over a wide pool that resembles a bowl. The pool in this waterfall is very deep and the temperature is low. It feels so cold when plunging into the water but many tourists still tend to swim because the pool area is wide. Moreover, during your visit, you’ll see a wide range of bamboo trees.

Megalithic Sites Embun Waterfall is a typical plunge, or classical, waterfall where water drops vertically and has no contact with the bedrock surface. This 100-metre waterfall is the highest in Pagar Alam. The waterfall splits at the top, shaping some beautiful streams on the way down before pouring into a shallow pool. This waterfall uniquely has a small volume of water so that the descending water from the top will turn into dew when it reaches the pool. This is the reason why it is called Embun (Dew) Waterfall. If you dare, you can even try the waterfall shower here. What about Tujuh Kenangan Waterfall? It’s a typical horsetail waterfall and as the water drops, it maintains contact with the bedrock. Tujuh Kenangan waterfall has pools and slides from natural rocks that are always drained by water. You can also find a small cliff as a spot for jumping off that can add to the excitement of your experience. During your visit to this waterfall, you’ll hear the chirps of birds and see the yellow butterflies around the pools. Tourists usually spend their time playing in the water or just sitting on the big rocks while enjoying nature.

Besides natural attractions, an interesting activity to do is going back in time and hunting for ancient megalithic sites in Pagar Alam. One of the sites you should visit is Tanjung Aro. At Tanjung Aro, you’ll see megalithic heritages in the form of a human statue wrapped around a snake and also a stone grave. The two objects are close together, only 50 metres away. The human statue is situated in the rice field area while the stone grave is in the middle of a settlement in Tanjung Aro district. Archaeologists agree that these stone statues date back to at least 3,000 years ago. These two monuments are some of the prehistoric relics from the megalith period that developed in the area of Pagar Alam. The monuments have been maintained and preserved by the local authority. The statue has been protected with an iron fence. In addition, these monuments have been recognised as a cultural heritage site under the Ministry of Education and Culture of Indonesia. For more information, talk to the people living here, whose knowledge about local wisdom can guide you.

MANGKOK WATERFALL

TUJUH KENANGAN WATERFALL

HUMAN STATUE

MOUNT DEMPO

PAGAR ALAM TEA PLANTATION

virtual reality

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Virtual Travel: the Future of Travel After the Coronavirus BY KELLY CHEN

ith billions of people around the world grounded due to the COVID-19 pandemic, much of the travel and tourism industry is turning to the digital world to find new ways to adapt to the new normal. Luckily, virtual travel opens doors for anyone to travel anywhere, anytime; an activity not bounded by weather and especially distance. This modern twist on travel places itself in a global market filled with billions of internet users from all around the world.

TOURISM INDUSTRIES For years, airlines, travel agencies, and tourism boards have used VR technology and other virtual apps to market and promote travel experiences and destinations to potential customers. As consumer uncertainty now becomes one of the biggest challenges for many travel operators, it can also serve as an opportunity to bring in more VR technology, including virtual travel, into the big picture. Virtual tours from travel businesses have soared in popularity, essentially facilitating a tourism experience without the need to travel in real life. For many travellers, this can serve as an insight into planning any future travel itineraries, assuring customers with the ‘trybefore-you-buy’ experience across Indonesia and beyond. The Jakarta Good Guide is among Indonesia’s travel organisers that are providing these services. Talking via Zoom, the world’s most used video conferencing platform amidst the pandemic, Good Guide brings people on virtual tours through unique and historic places, from local Jakartan favourites like Menteng to international lands such as Berlin and Amsterdam. Tour guides, videos, and virtual maps help in enhancing the experience as travellers learn more about the local traditions, language, and culture. In attracting future potential tourists, the Japan National Tourism Organisation has made a 360-degree virtual reality movie experience. Through your smartphone or headset, visitors go through an authentic Japan experience from bamboo forests, watching Geisha performances, sumo wrestling, and sushi making. Visitors will get a glimpse into the Japan tourist experience where tradition meets the future.

Through smartphones, the technology of virtual reality has become more accessible than ever before. Google Earth VR, amongst other virtual apps, has been the go-to for many digital users, giving free, unlimited access to virtually transport to any location in the world. Most recently, they have added 30 UNESCO world heritage sites, containing historical text and pins for each location. Travellers can roam around the deserts surrounding the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx or can opt to revisit some of Indonesia’s national sites, from the Borobudur Temple to the Prambanan Temple. For a more immersive experience, travellers can partake in more sophisticated forms of virtual tourism by pairing up with a headset from companies like Oculus or Vive, witnessing a 360-degree simulation

like never before. For sea lovers, National Geographic allows you to take a virtual dive and explore some of the world’s finest coral reefs, including Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, or swim with Humpback whales to your heart's desire; allowing users to visit many beautiful and threatened coral reef ecosystems. With much of travel being suspended, for now, the use of technology for virtual travel will be increasingly significant for travel businesses and travellers alike. Virtual travel may never replace traditional travel, but it is still allowing us to get a little closer to some of the world’s greatest wonders, opening up a new medium to explore from that many would not touch upon before. Indonesia and further abroad, we will surely be seeing more and more of the virtual world in our new normal and the years to come.

TRAVELLERS Whether travellers are stuck at home or simply minimising outside travel, the technology of today can let anyone explore all corners of the earth from the comfort of their home. Virtual reality technology and 360-degree videography can help for virtual travel to serve as an educational experience while giving people the chance in simulative experiences to what few people have the opportunity to do in real life.

COURTESY OF GOOGLE EARTH

JAKARTA GOOD GUIDE (COURTESY OF THE JAKARTA POST)

info for expats

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Foreign Direct Investment and Indonesia's Opportunity BY ANDY BARSKI (SEVEN STONES INDONESIA)

Old ways won’t open new doors.

t's an adage that goes back donkey's years. So far back, in fact, even the allseeing eye of Google has a real hard time attributing it to anyone in particular. But you get the gist, right? If you keep doing the same old thing nothing's going to change. That's something Jokowi's administration seems to have taken on board with particular reference to Indonesia's efforts to attract more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and making it easier to do business here. Omnibus Laws, deregulation, infrastructure development, land ownership revisions, tax cuts, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), revision of the Negative Investment List (NIL) to the Positive Investment List (PIL), credit rating improvements and a slew of financial reforms and stimulus packages have all opened new doors and should all have a positive effect in attracting FDI. Seven Stones Indonesia That’s why we’re delivering smart, collaborative, relevant, and progressive investment and business solutions that have a positive impact on clients, partners, employees, and local communities. At SEVEN STONES INDONESIA we’re focusing on what matters most to our networks today as well as future-proofing them so doing business in Indonesia is more relevant, efficient and effective. But is the attention on FDI all too little, too late? There have been a number of reports recently in both the local and international press around companies relocating from China. Some have argued they seem to have avoided Indonesia, preferring instead to invest in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan, and India. Some would also argue this is for good reason. It's just easier. There's less red tape. Less corruption. And it's cheaper! Naysayers may whinge that Indonesia's ease of doing business environment is still in the Stone Age and will never change. But we'd argue “you've gotta start somewhere” because that signals the intention to change. We have to plant trees under whose shade we don't expect to sit. A Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with a Single Step And that's the point because while the journey may well be a long one, the fact is you have to actually make the decision to start, which Jokowi's administration has done. The result? New doors are beginning to open and opportunities are beginning to present themselves.

Ladies and gentlemen… the train has definitely left the station!

concerns over the coronavirus and the impact this is having on supply chains.

According to The Nikkei Asian Review Jokowi has declared Indonesia open for business, quoting him as saying "we want companies from China, of course, but also Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, the U.S., and anywhere else in the world to move here. If other countries are asking one-million for land, then we can offer it for 500,000," Widodo said.

The South China Morning Post is reporting that "a spokesperson for the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), said Indonesia’s strong and growing domestic economy make it an attractive investment market.”

The Potential of Industrial Parks The President said this at a recent unveiling of a new industrial park in Batang, on the north coast of Central Java about 100-kilometres west of the provincial capital of Semarang, where seven foreign companies have committed to relocate and start construction of their facilities to the tune of USD 850 million. The Jakarta Globe also reported the "largest economy in Southeast Asia has also received a commitment from at least 17-companies to relocate to the industrial area, with total investments estimated at USD 37 billion." The Jakarta Post believes this will create employment for more than 110,000 people. Indonesia plans to set up 19 industrial parks across the country by 2024. IDN Financials are reporting at least 143 companies, mostly from the United States, will relocate their investment to Indonesia. Director of Promotion Development at Indonesia's Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Alma Karma, explained that out of the 143 companies, 57 were from the US, 39 from Taiwan, 25 from South Korea, and the rest are Japanese and Hong Kong companies. Why do foreign companies relocate? The consensus on why companies are relocating seems to narrow down to these key reasons; increasing labour costs; increasing tariffs and taxes resulting from the USChina Trade War (which impact many other countries apart from the US and China); and

The report goes on to quote Alexander Feldman, chairman of the US-ASEAN Business Council, as believing “the advantages that Indonesia can offer as a manufacturing hub are particularly around its large domestic consumer market. Indonesia is expected to be one of the world’s fastest-growing emerging markets over the next decade, offering revenue growth opportunities for a wide range of multinationals across many sectors of manufacturing and services. Indonesia does have the additional advantages of relatively low-cost manufacturing wages and a large labour force, for firms looking to manufacture for the Indonesian domestic consumer market,” he said. Nordic Council Indonesia For the savvy investor now could be an ideal time to consider relocating and investing in Indonesia, despite the current global economic maelstrom, especially if there is the attention given to the greater good. A case in point is the recent formation of the Nordic Council Indonesia (NCI), a collaborative group of professionals working with both foreign and domestic partners to encourage innovative business and social investment that have a positive impact on Indonesia. NCI is the bridge connecting Nordic investments, innovation and expertise with Indonesia's potential and resources by providing access to both business and government networks including those that inspire eco-conscious, community, and educational development.

Terje Nilsen, Chairman of the Board for NCI told SEVEN STONES INDONESIA that “one of our main motivations to start up NCI is to be able to support and, of course also benefit from, the potentials that now emerge in Indonesia through the various steps taken and implemented by Jokowi. The COVID-19 situation has also created further urgency into it all, and we are all excited to support and grow activities between Indonesia and our fellow Nordic Countries.” The Future is ours to Create It seems mindset is the key and the future is ours to create. If we stay set in our old ways and take the naysayers and doomsday prophets at their word we risk standing still and stagnating, confused and frustrated as to why new doors remain closed and why possibilities are confined to dreams. If we want to be the change we want to see, if we want to prosper (as businesses and societies) we must cultivate and embrace ideas and initiatives that have positive impacts for us all. It is with this mindset that companies, and even countries, can open new doors and truly make a difference.

SE V E N ST ON E S I N DON E SI A i s headquartered in Bali and specialises in residential and commercial property sales and rentals both in Bali and neighbouring islands. We provide legal, marketing and fund management services and cover a wide range of investment opportunities from offplan developments to infrastructure projects. We are a customer-centric company that believes in authentic engagement to deliver lifetime value to and for all stakeholders with the aim of boosting business, brand growth and prosperity for clients and partners alike. Find out how we can help you and your business. Send an email to hello@ sevenstonesindonesia.com.

travel

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

What does It Mean to be a Good Tourist in Indonesia? BY LINA HUTCHINSON

This idea of being considerate goes hand in hand with travel etiquette such as respecting historic attractions. Dressing appropriately, greeting locals politely, and being spatially aware are just small actions to take when visiting a sacred place. No one wants to be the loud tourist disrupting everyone’s trips. As important as it is to be culturally sensitive, being environmentally conscious matters too. Travelling means that you’re visiting someone’s home and it’s important to treat it like you would treat your own. When selecting items to carry with you on your trip, taking products with environmental packaging is an easy way to respect others’ space while contributing to a better planet overall is vital. Putting waste in rubbish bins, taking it to local recycling centres, and picking up litter is a simple way to do your bit to respect the local environment.

here’s no doubt that travelling allows us to expand our horizons and learn from different cultures. It brings us closer as a global community and provides countless experiences that stay with us in our memories. One aspect of tourism that might be overlooked is how we interact with the places we visit and how this may have negative or positive impacts on the local environment, culture, or economy. Indonesia has become a tourist destination with its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and diversity. With temples, historic architecture, and incredible street food to try, Indonesia is the go-to place for an adventurous yet relaxing holiday. In many ways, travelling is a beautiful thing, but as travellers, we should be mindful of the culture, beliefs, and way of life of local people or places. If you’ve travelled or visited a tourist attraction, you’ve most probably cringed at the way a tourist may have acted. Who knows, you may have even been cringed at! Being understanding and patient with cultures and beliefs is just a small part of being a good tourist and this may save you some embarrassment at public attractions. A way to approach being a good tourist is by doing your research. Whether it be looking into the culture and history of Indonesia, or even learning a few words in Bahasa Indonesia. Of course, you don’t have to be an expert, but having some background knowledge of Indonesian beliefs and way of life could make a huge difference in how you enjoy your holiday. Knowing a few words in the local lingo is a great way to make some local friends too!

Travelling allows us to learn about different cultures, make memories, engage in diverse experiences that you may never experience in your home country, and taking risks. Something to be considered when doing research is different people’s beliefs and values. Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim population, making prayer times and celebrations something to keep in mind when visiting the country. Communicating with drivers and giving them time for prayer or respecting people fasting during Ramadan is an easy way to show deference to Indonesian people’s beliefs.

With cultural sensitivity and social responsibility in mind, another important element to remember is your purpose for travelling. Travelling allows us to learn about different cultures, make memories, engage in diverse experiences that you may never experience in your home country, and taking risks. As tempting as it may be to stay at a five-star hotel, visit Starbucks every morning, and shop at high-end malls, supporting the local economy is a way to assimilate with the culture of the local community and gain experiences. You may take Bluebird taxis, visit the countless local markets, purchase some souvenirs to take home, or try some delicious street food - sate ayam and bakso are some honourable mentions. There are countless opportunities to enjoy Indonesian culture and support the local community together. A little effort can go a long way when travelling, and small actions of consideration benefit the local community you’re visiting while enriching your travel plans. Be wellresearched, gracious, and listen to the people around you. It’s a privilege to be able to travel and be welcomed with open arms! In being respectful, Indonesia will be more than happy to welcome you and give you an enjoyable holiday.

travel

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Bali's Sustainable Tourism BY STEPHANIE BROOKES (IMAGES BY DAVID METCALF)

Bali opened to domestic tourism on July 31. Supporting sustainable tourism is a way to give back to local communities in Bali and also, it puts you in touch with the local Balinese culture. Want to get close to the culture? Visit a traditional honey gatherer or maybe an organic coffee producer in the hills of Munduk. If ikat is your thing, visit a small village where the timeless artisan craft of weaving has been revitalised. By exploring village-led projects, you can share in and experience a range of cultural aspects of Balinese life. HONEY FOR MEDICINE I met Gede on the slopes of Mount Agung, where he told me how he first got into honey farming. "My mother was really sick with a range of ailments, so I went on a mission to find medicinal honey," he explained. Similar to the medicinal Manuka honey of New Zealand, the unique black bee (Apis trigona) honey of Bali has many health benefits including acting as an anti-inf lammatory agent against colds and f lu, plus helping with wound care, allergies, asthma, and many other ailments. I was lucky the day I went to meet Gede the honey farmer because one of the 70 honey boxes were ready to be prized open. We met up with Pak Madya who squeezed this liquid-gold honey straight from the hive into the bottle. Pure honey. He expertly bottled it right on the spot and handed it to me. Deal done! I was so happy to purchase my bottle of honey straight from the source. There are about 70 hives located around the forest of Tanah Aron on the slopes of Mount Agung. The hives are rotated around the forest and are moved, allowing the honey to take on the flavour of the various flowering plants and fruit trees such as oranges, mango, durian and coffee, according to the season. The bees have a radius of only 1.9 km and are miniature. They are the smallest bee in the world (four mm) and can enter the tiniest flowers. A CUP OF BALI I travelled the long winding road up to Munduk, in the centre of the island, passing through a series of small traditional villages, catching glimpses along the way of stunning mountain lakes and beautiful temples. The road took me higher and higher into the forested mountain valleys clad in groves of cloves and coffee plantations. The temperature dropped as I ascended and the mist started to roll in. I passed small family-run eco-lodges and a host of homestays with little wooden signs hanging outside traditional compounds. When I arrived at Banjar Bulakan, I stood in awe at the magnificent sweeping views over the mountains and deep valleys. Exploring Munduk includes soft trekking options to waterfalls, and for the more adventurous, you can hike Mount Lesung. My mission was coffee. When I arrived at the village, I found out coffee here is not farmed on a plantation scale, but rather the coffee trees are dispersed through the

By supporting sustainable tourism, you also benefit in a cross-cultural exchange that brings you closer to experiencing the inner beauty of this amazing island. forests amongst orange groves, allowing the coffee to take on a citrus flavour. My guide, Nyoman, who is the local trekking guide, took me on a guided walk through the small hamlet where we passed coffee trees along the trail. We eventually came to one of the many coffee roasting spots. The roasting takes place over an open fire, and we visited seven small backyard operations, some tucked away in little smoky kitchens and others out in the open under a thatched roof shelter. I chatted with the ladies as I watched them distribute the heat expertly in the large blackened wokstyle pans.

Honey Farmer Tour guide: Gede (+6287762851922) Desa Buana Giri, Banjar Tanah Aron Mount Agung, Karangasem, Bali Arya Tenganan Trekking Munduk Coffee Tour guide: Nyoman Mang Pris (+6285738955473) Desa Munduk, Banjar Bulakan, Slau-Buleleng, Bali Munduk Trekking Guide Pejeng Kangin Togetherness Project: Wayan Ellen (+62817477619) The Togetherness Project is employing Balinese to help with COVID, including initiating the weaving project. Videos, photos and interviews; togethernessproject2020@ gmail.com togethernessproject Ubud Village Plate Cooking school in a traditional village, Ubud, Bali (+628174773619) www.ubudvillageplate.com Fundraiser: Helping villagers in Bali • 48 cooks employed providing 150 • 200 meals to the very needy, every day, with your donations. Each meal is around 90 cents each. www.gofundme.com/f/ togetherness-project-bali Weaving village Project, Pejeng Kangin www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUjAqHHuG4

We eventually ended up at Mammas kitchen where an enormous feast was waiting. I was treated to a spread of dishes including coconut-based chicken curry, green bean and coconut salad (urab sayur), steaming hot corn fritters, and a bowl of traditional Balinese soup. The rice was served in a bamboo steamer and came out piping hot. When I had my cup of organic Munduk coffee in my hands, I was so happy to be there, high up in the mountains, in a traditional village meeting the organic coffee growers and roasters and discovering more about Balinese life. A LONG-LOST WEAVING VILLAGE In a small traditional village in Pejeng Kangin, just outside of Ubud, the weavers of Bali have dusted off their looms and a long-forgotten artisan craft has returned. Due to the current pandemic situation and subsequent job losses in tourism, a group of 25 women have brought back their grandmothers’ art of weaving beautiful, vibrant fabrics for the home and to wear. I met Putu, who told me she started to weave at the age of eight. However, all her adult life she has worked in tourism and her loom was put away for 30 years. Putu told me one of the older ladies in her village used to make handwoven silk and cotton brocade for the daughter of Suharto (President of Indonesia from 1967 to 1998). It turns out there are many master weavers in this village. I talked with Apel Murtini, who took on the role two months ago of retraining the weavers and also teaching some of the young ones this timeless artisan craft. They are now one big happy group from teenagers to elders, including the master weaver Ibu Klemik who is 65 years old. They are very busy making table runners, sarong, shawls and wall hangings. "We sent orders last week to Singapore, Canada, and Australia," Putu said, with a glowing and proud look. "Do you want to know how we can weave so fast?" she said with a playful grin, "We are all going to America!" and she added, "At least, that is what we joke about, but you never know, right?" After I visited with the weavers, I joined a local cooking class which took place at Putu's house. She has been running cooking classes and providing lunch and dinner for visitors and tourists for three years now, and with Bali opening the doors to domestic tourism, she is delighted to be hosting her classes again. Balinese women have always been resourceful and creative in difficult times, and this village has really got on board with creating a new way to get by. I loved my day in this village, sitting amongst the weavers, visiting their rice fields, enjoying a village tour, and being hosted so graciously in this Balinese family compound. There is culture to be found everywhere in Bali, and by supporting sustainable tourism, you also benefit in a cross-cultural exchange that brings you closer to experiencing the inner beauty of this amazing island.

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Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Hidden Gems in East Java The phenomenon has occurred for a long time, but midnight hiking wasn’t very popular until recently. A two-hour hike is required to reach the rim of the crater, followed by a 45-minute hike down to the bank of the crater. The blue fire is ignited sulphuric gas, which emerges from cracks at astonishing temperatures of up to 600°C. The flames can be up to five metres high. Some of the gas condenses to liquid and is still ignited. It is the largest blue flame area in the world and local people refer to it as “blue fire”. Make sure to come and visit this beautiful place when you get the chance!

MOUNT IJEN

hen people think of travel destinations in Indonesia, one word comes to mind: Bali. But what about other places such as East Java? It’s a province that’s equally rich in wonder and fascination. To give some ideas to those who absolutely love travelling, here are some hidden gems in East Java that are definitely worth the visit.

BAWEAN ISLAND

BAWEAN ISLAND An island located approximately 150 km north of Surabaya in the Java Sea, off the coast of Java; it’s one of the most beautiful islands you’ll ever visit. It is also known as Pulau Putri or “island of women”. Bawean is surrounded by beautiful beaches such as Gili Noko and Noko Selayar. With beautiful scenery and landscapes, they will surely leave you in awe. If you’re looking for mesmerising sunsets, Makam Panjang and Tanjung Gaang beaches are the places to go. With beautiful spots for sunset shots, these beaches are amazingly Instagrammable locations. Aside from beaches, there’s Kastoba Lake which is located in Paromaan village, Candi, Tambak district, Bawean Gresik. Despite the

hundreds of steps you need to climb up, it’ll be worth it when you see the clear waters and fresh air and admire this beautiful gift from nature. There’s also a Bawean Deer Sanctuary, which is one of Bawean’s endemic species which is found only on this island. You can reach this place by using a speedboat or ferry. So, what are you waiting for? Bawean Island is the place to go!

stalactites and stalagmites. The rays of sunshine inside the cave definitely add an aesthetic feel to the atmosphere. There are also bridges and electric lamps along the cave; a real call for adventure! MOUNT IJEN Ijen is a group of volcanoes located on the border just between Banyuwangi and Bondowoso. Mount Ijen is a one-km wide, turquoise-coloured, acidic crater lake. The mountain is also known for its blue flames, a spectacular and out-of-this-world sight. This tourist attraction has drawn the attention of many people, especially ever since National Geographic mentioned the electric-blue flames of Ijen.

TUMPAK SEWU Tumpak Sewu, meaning “a thousand waterfalls” in Indonesian, will definitely be one of your best travel memories ever. These splendid waterfalls are 120 metres high, making them among the tallest waterfalls in Indonesia. You can view the waterfalls from both above and below. The top viewpoint is only ten minutes away from the parking area. You’ll see a curtain of magnificent falls flowing down as smooth as silk. To reach the bottom viewpoint, you’ll have to go through a few sets of bamboo stairs and narrow streams, but I promise it’ll be worth it. The view from below is amazing – you can feel the incredible force of nature and running water within you. This is definitely one of those must-visits in East Java! MOUNT SEMERU Mount Semeru, also known as Mahameru, meaning “the great mountain”, is an active volcano that also earned the title of being the highest mountain in Java. The name derives from Hindu cosmology's mountain of Meru or Sumeru; the abode of gods. Mount Semeru is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Indonesia, and for a good reason. This adrenaline-activating hike demands a set of good hiking skills and pushes you beyond your limits. Therefore, it is recommended for more experienced hikers. However, all the fatigue after the hike will soon be washed away when you reach your destination. You’ll be welcomed by cool air and, of course, a breathtaking view. Definitely one for those with an adventurous soul!

LOWO CAVE

LOWO CAVE Gua Lowo, a cave located at Watuagung, Watulimo sub-district of Trenggalek Regency, means “bat cave” in Indonesian. Just like its name suggests, you’ll find no creatures other than bats in said cave. Though the cave reaches a length of about five km, only 859 metres are accessible to visitors. Gua Lowo is also the biggest natural cave in Southeast Asia. Since the cave is surrounded by a teak forest, you can expect to feel the fresh air and mountain breeze as soon as you arrive. When you head inside the cave, you’ll see the wide cave chamber, its walls beautifully decorated and, of course, a splendid panorama. This will definitely be a treat for you artistic ones; the cave is filled with

TUMPAK SEWU

MOUNT SEMERU

leisure

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

The World’s Most Instagrammed Beach Clubs

7. Ocean Club Marbella in Marbella, Spain This exclusive spot comes along with a cool blue swimming pool, panoramic views, live DJ, and lounge areas. Some of the most hotlyanticipated events in town are held here.

KU DE TA BALI

oceanclubmarbella

ith what’s going on the world, we’re all yearning for a holiday filled with sun, sea, glamour, and great music – like lazing around in a chic beach club all day. According to research conducted by swimwear company Pour Moi, Indonesia has secured five spots of the world’s most Instagrammed beach clubs that offer mesmerising views, decadent drinks, and stylish backdrops – perfect for you to share online. Four of those beach clubs are in Bali, marking the Potato Head Beach Club as the most photographed beach club on this social media platform, following La Brisa, Sundays Beach Club, and Ku De Ta in the top ten list. Other countries making it to the top ten are Italy, Spain, France, and Greece. Here are the ten most Instagrammed beach clubs in the world:

3. Blue Marlin in Ibiza, Spain Blue Marlin, situated in one of the most picturesque corners of the island, is a beachside complex boasting fine cocktails, comfy sea-side day beds, and a host of charming people. Great food and epic parties have drawn incredible DJs and performers from all around the world. bluemarlinibiza

5. Scorpios in Mykonos, Greece Perfect for both day and night, you can lie on a sunbed or cabana, dine, or take part in the famous Sunset Music Ritual. The bohemian aesthetic continues when the music picks up as the bonfires get lit and the dancing starts.

8. Sundays Beach Club in Uluwatu, Bali The crystal clear blue water off the beach at Sundays Beach Club can be explored as the club offers snorkelling equipment, kayaks, and paddleboards to make the most of it.

scorpiosmyk sundaysbeachclub

1. Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak, Bali Potato Head Beach Club is free to enter yet a minimum spend is required to lounge on the luxurious cabanas or poolside beds that give access to the infinity pool and swim-up bar. This venue has held film and music festivals, concerts, and dance parties featuring topnamed DJs and artists overlooking the beach.

4. Le Club 55 in St Tropez, France This beach-side restaurant offers loungers, drinks and dining; Le Club 55 is renowned as a hangout for the rich and famous in Saint Tropez. In fact, a chic bazaar-style boutique for picking up some essentials is also provided. 9. Nikki Beach Marbella in Marbella, Spain If you want to combine your beach club experience with champagne tastings, daytime dancing and lavish lunches, then Nikki Beach Marbella is the club for you.

club55sttropez

potatoheadbali 2. Phi Beach in Sardinia, Italy Renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and nestled in the rocks lining a stunning coastline on Sardinia’s north coast, Phi Beach is the perfect spot for fine food, opulent settings, and gleaming sunsets, thus winning the second spot. phibeachofficial

6. La Brisa in Canggu, Bali The romantic Pirates of the Caribbean-style vibe, with a lagoon-style swimming pool, hanging egg chairs, swings, hammocks, and beanbags, fine seafood, eclectic cocktails, awesome parties, and sparkling fairy lights at La Brisa makes it comfortably picture perfect. labrisabali

nikkibeachmarbella 10. Ku De Ta in Seminyak, Bali Ku De Ta’s stunning infinity pool overlooks the beach, offering incredible sunset views and drawing big named DJs like Carl Cox. kudetabali

history

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

Prehistoric South Sulawesi Sites in Critical Condition BY CATA IVANCOV

I LA GALIGO’ MANUSCRIPT, LEIDEN UNIVERSITY, NETHERLANDS

Adhi Agus Oktaviana, from the Arkenas Research Centre, wrote extensively on the Palaeolithic archaeology of Indonesia, including the Maros complex. He explained that every year, BPCB usually appoints one or several local people as caretakers of the caves on a yearly contract system and sets priorities for the protection of cultural sites according to their current fiscal year or in the year ahead. Further to our discussion, I contacted Rustan Lebe, a reviewer from BPCB Makassar who is conducting a study and monitoring the development of the damaged condition of several paintings of prehistoric caves in South Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi. It was revealed to me that from five cave samples, with a total of 340 individual paintings, 97 percent are damaged, and this is only based on a study back in 2015.

“Turning around while the Creator said: That is how it descends to earth. The arrangement of the wind is very perfect in front of it. The Manurung Aji Paewang is probably good. It is brought down to earth.”

PAINTING OF CAVE WALLS IN THE PANGKEP AREA, SOUTH SULAWESI (PHOTO: R. CECEP EKA PERMANA, 2005)

It’s only in the recent years that world heritage practitioners and local agencies have become aware that heritage places might also “belong” to ordinary people and to local communities who might have particular associations, feelings, attachments and so on to these places.

—“I LA GALIGO”, BUGINESE EPIC—

ravelling between Indonesian islands, it’s easy to get absorbed by the breathtaking features of the landscape, wildlife, and delicious food. It’s often forgotten that these lands are so much more than that. With every step we take, we could be walking on layers of history. Most places, no matter how ordinary or cosmopolitan they might look or feel, are a result of cultural and historical sedimentation of accumulated past human action that left traces, if you know where to look for them. I wanted to start this article with a passage from the South Sulawesi Buginese oral epic story, I La Galigo, the longest literary work in the world, overshadowing works like Mahabharata or the Iliad. This epic, with origins lost in the mists of time, is a creation myth of the Bugis people written down in manuscripts, starting in the 18th century in the Ancient Buginese script, spoken currently by only 100 people or less. Sulawesi is an island situated in the biogeographical region called Wallacea, at the boundary between Sundaland and Oceania; a land that’s home to early human prehistoric sites that have had revolutionary implications for the understanding of early human migrations. The most important prehistoric sites located in South Sulawesi consist of more than 20 karst caves, with mural paintings and hand stencils, including also previously unknown practices of self-ornamentation, use of ochre, pigmented artefacts, and portable art. These findings contributed to the search for the first human activities in the Late Pleistocene Wallacea, shattering our knowledge about the origins of art.

An hour’s drive north from the port of Makassar, the Maros-Pangkep cave complex has been known by the locals since time immemorial. Research started with the Dutch in the 1950s and was continued later in the 70s by British archaeologists, but it only made headlines in 2014 when M. Aubert and A. Brumm published their research. The two Australian archaeologists, currently based at Griffith University, used a new method to date the cave paintings based on traces of radioactive uranium present in the limestone cave formation’s ochre pigment. To their astonishment and disbelief, they found that the cave paintings date to 35,000–40,000 years old, making them as old, if not older, than the previously oldest known prehistoric cave art from Europe. Although I haven’t had the chance to explore Sulawesi and these caves, I became obsessed with their discovery, so I followed academic journals for articles written on the MarosPangkep cave complex. European cave art, such as the Lascaux caves in France, is well known and has been long portrayed as images of the finest and most elaborate prehistoric art due to its conservation efforts. Mural painting inside caves is well known for the challenges it poses, its fragility making it urgent for measures to be implemented for its preservation. I found that the Sulawesi caves are in quite bad condition, deteriorating faster than imagined although efforts have been carried out to manage the caves, mostly by the Conservation Centre for South Sulawesi Cultural Heritage (BPCB Sulsel). A few months ago, I decided to contact archaeologists in charge to get a more accurate picture of the caves’ condition.

MAROS-PANGKEP CAVE COMPLEX (SOURCE: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC)

Needless to say, the Maros-Pangkep cave complex has been included on a tentative UNESCO list since 2009, though it’s still not accepted as a UNESCO protected heritage site. We can imagine that many problems hamper the UNESCO decision, and one of them would be the Indonesian government’s inability to provide a long-term sustainable plan for the area. As Dr.Budianto Hakim from the South Sulawesi Archaeology Centre explained, mining activities are a major factor in the damage of paintings for caves located in the cement industry areas, and the Sulawesi caves “will never be accepted as UNESCO Heritage sites, as long as the area is not sterile from cement activity or other types of mining.”

I sincerely hope that Indonesia will find a way to preserve their legacy and heritage for the future. Once we lose their culture, language and traditions we face the loss of an entire worldview.

PANELS AT CAVE LEANG BULU 'SIPONG 4 THAT DATE FROM THE LATE PLEISTOCENE (SOURCE: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC)

Very limited social studies have been conducted on the involvement of the sur rounding communit y in South Sulawesi. This lack of understanding of the community situation makes it difficult for the government to determine long-term policies. Before we even begin to work on the preservation of the archaeological sites, the local communities' struggle for recognition of their right to traditional land needs to be addressed. Denis Byrne, a Research Fellow in Heritage, describes that “the way that local places ‘become’ heritage places is not merely a normal aspect of community identity building; it is probably critical to the viability or survival of a community.” Bugis, together with the Makassar and Toraja people of South Sulawesi, are indigenous Austronesian ethnic groups with a strong proud identity, and I sincerely hope that Indonesia will find a way to preserve their legacy and heritage for the future. Once we lose their culture, language and traditions we face the loss of an entire worldview.

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

BALI

Alila Villas Uluwatu #travelwithpurpose with a Gift to Empower Have an unforgettable holiday with Alila Villas Uluwatu’s new Gift to Empower offer, which invites guests to discover the beauty and authenticity of Bali and its hospitality while enjoying the chance to connect with and support the local community. To give back, five percent of guests’ villa rate per night will be gifted to R.O.L.E. Foundation, the resort’s non-profit partner working to break the poverty cycle by empowering women with skills training and business education. This offer includes daily breakfast, one threecourse dinner for two, and a visit to R.O.L.E Foundation. Guests can immediately book until December 2021, while free cancellation is until 24-hour prior to arrival date. “Guests will be much more discerning regarding a hotel's programs to reduce their environmental impact and contribute to the local community, especially higher-end guests. I have always maintained that involving guests in sustainability initiatives is very important. With this offer, guests will not only enjoy a tour of the foundation to see how we impact the local community and the environment, but also receive samples of what we are producing,” said Hemal Jain, General Manager of Alila Villas Uluwatu. Please book online at www.alilahotels.com/uluwatu/offers/giftempower or email us at uluwatu@alilahotels.com.

BALI & MALANG

TripAdvisor 2020 Travellers’ Choice Awards Two Jambuluwuk Properties Jambuluwuk Oceano Seminyak Hotel and Jambuluwuk Convention Hall and Resort Batu have each won the TripAdvisor 2020 Travellers’ Choice Award. As expressed by Corporate Communication Manager of Jambuluwuk Hotels and Resorts Martha W. Thomas, these awards will be a momentum to raise their service and hospitality standards to a higher level than before. “With the TripAdvisor 2020 Travellers’ Choice Award, we also prove our sincerity in serving and welcoming the guests who come. We have proven that first, and of course we will continue to prove it in the future, especially in the new normal phase where our staff must serve according to the antiCOVID-19 health protocol,” she said. The TripAdvisor 2020 Travellers’ Choice Award is an annual form of appreciation initiated by tourism review and reference sites in the world to tourism actors, activists and stakeholders including hospitality in various parts of the world including Indonesia. Visit www.jambuluwuk.com or follow Instagram @jambuluwk and Facebook Jambuluwuk Hotels & Resorts for more information.

JAKARTA

JEC Held Webinar on Eye Trauma Management From May-August 2020, JEC has run ten series of webinars with total participation up to more than 11,500 participants from all over Indonesia. JEC Eye Hospitals and Clinics conducted a webinar on ophthalmic trauma with the theme "Overcoming the Challenges in Ophthalmic Trauma" on August 15. "Not only providing quality clinical services and applying the latest technology, JEC Eye Hospitals and Clinics also strive to implement our mission to develop the competence of doctors and staff through research and education. JEC understands very well that to improve the quality of eye health of the Indonesian people while simultaneously reducing the incidence of blindness, there is a need for mutual support and enthusiasm for progress from various circles, especially eye health practitioners,” said Dr Johan A Hutauruk, SpM (K), President Director of JEC Corporate.

This webinar was in collaboration with the Asia Pacific Ophthalmic Trauma Society (APOTS) involving speakers and moderators from nine countries: United States, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, Taiwan, Nepal, and Indonesia. These global speakers also show JEC's strong relationship with the world’s various organisations leading the eye health sector, such as the Asia Pacific Ophthalmic Trauma Society (APOTS), ASEAN Association of Eye Hospitals (AAEH), and World Association of Eye Hospitals (WAEH). "With the concept of science sharing, the speakers together with Indonesian eye health experts, exchange scientific insights and case studies for medical action, which we believe can broaden the horizons of knowledge of eye health practitioners in the country," continued Dr Johan A. Hutauruk. Visit www.jec.co.id for more information.

BY GARY JOY

Throughout the pandemic, visa processing has been an absolute nightmare for expatriates applying for visas in Indonesia. Immigration offices have opened and closed, rulebooks have been thrown out the window and mass confusion and hysteria has marred Facebook activity. Some visa agents have done their best to keep people informed of the current situation; however, the negativity surrounding agents has never been higher. I agree, not all agents are alike, some are more reliable than others, some have tried to exploit the situation, others have attempted to maintain a level of professionalism throughout – as with any industry, some agents are good and some are bad. A constant argument I have noticed is that many people continuously spout that visa agents are ripping people off or exploiting the situation; some may well be, but the majority are just doing their jobs – making your life easier. Many people comment on the true price of visas, “this only costs x amount, why are people selling the service at this inflated amount?” Simply put, it’s basic economics. As with any service provider, cost price and service price are never the same. I’ve never hired a plumber, a builder or been to a restaurant and complained about the service price versus the cost price, you outsource people or providers to take care of the jobs you can’t or would prefer not to. Anyone can cook a good meal at home, but you don’t begrudge a restaurant for marking up the price of the ingredients. They cook the ingredients, provide a pleasant atmosphere, hire professionals, ensure you can relax and provide staff at your beck and call – so what is the difference with visa agents? As a founder of a visa agency myself and the admin of Indonesia’s largest visa Facebook group, I’ve seen people constantly complaining about service fees vs cost price – nobody is forcing anyone to use an agent; you are more than entitled to do it yourself, just as you could build a wall, fix your plumbing or cook for yourself – so why are visa experts the exception?

2. Save time: Want to go to a visa office three times to make a visa extension when you could just go once? Spend hours navigating queues, lining up and not understanding what you are doing? With an agent, you don’t have to. Do you need to contemplate how much is your time worth? If you have it in abundance and you don’t mind learning something new, feel free to do it yourself. Prefer to spend your time doing what you actually love? Then get someone else to do it for you. 3. Stress relief: Visa processing is stressful and unnecessarily time-consuming. Using online systems, understanding how to upload documents and what formats to use, ensuring you apply at the right time of day to ensure you can apply before the limitations have finished, just a few of the basic challenges you will face, not to mention the language barrier that many will face. Don’t speak Indonesian? You are going to need a friend to translate. Why stress yourself out when a competent expert can do it for you?

At the end of the day, anyone can process their own visa, but it is tremendously hard and time-consuming. So, if you can just process your own visa, why use an agent? 1. Expert advice: As I mentioned, anyone can process a visa, but you are paying for expert advice. You are paying a professional that does it day after day to get the job done. Their time and expertise are valuable, so utilise it. A good agency will be able to clearly tell you what you need to provide and they will take care of the rest.

On average, LetsMoveIndonesia customers save an estimated 20-40 percent using LetsMove rather than the other top-ranking agencies. Additionally, they also offer other services such as Company Establishment, Tax and Accountancy as well as Premium Real Estate rentals in Central & South Jakarta.

4. Make the impossible happen: There are many things an agent can do that you can’t. Indonesia is a place where connections are key and legal know-how is priceless. A good agent can utilise out the box thinking and use their expertise to accomplish things you cannot. 5. Money: Many think that using an agent is a more expensive option and in some cases, it may well be, but as they say, time is money; how much is your time worth? If you are prepared to spend hours of your time uploading applications, transporting documents and waiting around immigration offices? Then go ahead. Value your time over cost? Then hire a reputable agent. As I mentioned at the beginning, not all agents are good and as with any profession, there are no doubt greedy, unethical agents, but there are a few good ones out there too - if you know where to look. Overall, the choice is entirely up to you when it comes to processing your visa. If you would like to process your visa yourself and are willing to spend the time, then go ahead. Prefer to utilize your time doing things you love? Then use an agent.

Have a question or would like a free consultation? Then contact them at T: 021 300 297 27 E: info@letsmoveindonesia.com or visit them in their office in Bellagio Mall, Mega Kuningan, the only walk-in Visa agency in Jakarta.

Gary Joy is the founder of LetsMoveIndonesia, commonly referred to as Indonesia’s most ethical agency. They pride themselves on being the most transparent agency and were the first agency in Jakarta to advertise their prices online. Unlike other agencies they don’t change prices for services based on nationality, company or sales targets, flat rate prices are on offer for all to see.

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

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Send your classifieds to: info@ indonesiaexpat.biz Next Deadline: September 29, 2020

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Pre loved Excellent Quality Teak Day Bed in very good condition for sale at a reduced price of Rp 2.5 million. Mattress (90x180

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Villa for Yearly Rental in Tumbak Bayuh. Located in Tumbak Bayuh, quiet area and surrounded by pandan trees. 6 minutes drive to the beach and restaurants. Price: Rp235 million per year. Land Size: 200m 2 . Building size: 170m2, Floor Level: 2. For more information please feel free to contact us at the number below, Phone: +623619065325 or WhatsApp: +62 81916391484.

Indonesia Expat Issue 264 | 2 September – 6 October 2020

INDONESIA EXPAT TRIVIA

2020 Travel Plans and Favourites

ravelling has become part of our lifestyle. With stay-at-home orders enforced earlier this year, and transportation hubs operating on a limited capacity, we’ve all been experiencing cabin fever.

reaching an almost tight draw. Account @ nefertitiarsaqe commented, “long-distance travel remains to be seen.” As to whether people have been travelling since the government has loosened restrictions? The majority have not.

Health experts worldwide have been encouraging us to boost our immunity. Does it occur to you that travelling might be one of the factors contributing to our immunity? Yes, we often feel lethargic from excessive travelling and different time zones, yet being able to visit another city or country for a few days, regardless of what our agendas are, deeply excites our mind, body, and soul.

Some answered their 2020 travelling plans as the following: • “Mykonos!” wrote @racheltarjono. • “Thesis fieldwork in NTT,” wrote @harrrimau. • “International conference in Singapore and fellowship in Manila,” wrote @nadyalaras. • “We plan to travel to Portugal and some countries in Europe, then back to Brazil,” wrote @liya_wd. • “Bangkok, Tokyo, and Chicago. But nothing came through thanks to COVID-19,” wrote @azphinata.

Indonesia Expat held a trivia quiz on Instagram, asking about all things travel during this ongoing pandemic. Based on the results, everyone’s travel plans were halted, Eastern Indonesia is very much adored, and to no surprise, Bali remains the most favoured destination in Indonesia. Participants in this quiz were at least 51 percent expats, while 49 percent were Indonesian. The desire to travel around Indonesia amidst the pandemic resulted in both strong reluctance and willingness,

The majority answered Bali as being part of their 2020 travel plans. This supports the fact that beaches are highly preferable compared to mountains. Eastern Indonesia is highly desired and has gained popularity. Many answered that they love and are eager to explore the eastern regions such as Lombok, Labuan Bajo, Sumba, and Raja Ampat.

However, overseas travels are still big hits amongst the participants. Though their love for Bali and other destinations are strong, their eagerness to explore the world is stronger. Their tips and tricks to feel secure and happy whilst travelling amidst the pandemic include the standard health protocols of wearing masks, using hand sanitiser, and practising social distancing. Some noted other actions that may be worth a try: • “Mask up and a good book,” wrote @aim_miko. • “I suppose travelling anywhere when there are not many people around should be perfect!” wrote @anggrhptr. • “Drive your own car and stay away from flights and trains,” wrote @magnusmuhli. Indonesia’s travelling regulations are unfortunately still confusing for most, considering these participants are either living in Indonesia or abroad. One account, @ruthmarier, commented, “the government should be decisive, especially during a global emergency and put some effort into taking people’s situation more seriously.” Will you be travelling asap?

How to cope with COVID-19? Can I still see my doctor? COVID-19 testing? Health certificates? A lot of information is available on COVID-19. For those of us who are living in Jakarta or elsewhere in Indonesia it is important to stay as healthy as possible. GOOD PRACTICE provides regular reliable information on COVID-19 to patients and potential patients. Send us an email if you want to be included in our mailing list.

swabs and Rapid COVID-19 tests and serological antibody testing. GOOD PRACTICE is open as usual. We provide house calls and we also provide COVID-19 testing (we can also come to your house for testing). HEALTH CERTIFICATES can be provided by GOOD PRACTICE.

GOOD PRACTICE PROVIDES NON INFECTIOUS STERILE CONSULTATION HOURS. Are your vaccinations still up to date? Did you get a FLU vaccination? How are your other conditions controlled? If you are suffering from hypertension or diabetes for instance, you have to make sure those conditions are managed well. Please make sure you have your regular check-ups and that your supply of medication is sufficient. You can even consider an immune boost, which we can also provide at GOOD PRACTICE Identify a clinic that you can turn to with your concerns. A clinic that can advise you about your symptoms. Now it is especially important that the communication between your good self and a trusted medical practitioner is well understood. So what to do if you have any symptoms? Talk to a trusted medical practitioner. Also if you consider that you need COVID-19 testing, you should talk to a medical practitioner. Please note that we offer both PCR

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 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

HOUSE CALLS ARE PROVIDED FOR EVERY CONDITION INCLUDING VACCINATIONS AND CHILDHOOD IMMUNISATIONS.

Best of all is that you now can have a consultation with anyone of our medical team from whatever location. We have introduced TELECONSULTATIONS. Via an app, GP Now, you can connect with us directly. Just send GOOD PRACTICE a simple email to info@goodpractice. co.id and we will send you the link. Basically you let us know what time you would like to consult a doctor and we will appear online at the desired time. If any medication needs to be provided, we will arrange this to be sent out to you. GOOD PRACTICE can help you with all the above. We now also provide you with direct contact to our medical practitioners from any location in this world! It is important that you identify a clinic that you are comfortable with. GOOD PRACTICE has patients from 69 countries (Luxembourg and Cyprus were added to our list). Our all English speaking team implements international guidelines. We provide highly personalised care. Try us!

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