Vol. 1 No. 15 I january 26 - February 1, 2014
A LA MODE
Fashion Horses Around TREND DIAL
Bandung’s Chinese Cornucopia WANDERLUST
Venetian Finds
Festive Spirit Susan Bachtiar & Olga Lydia On Celebrating the Lunar New Year
Noted in passing
mark my words
Seeing Red
Riding High One of the endearing aspects of living in a multicultural society like Indonesia is the great variety of holidays and celebrations that are observed. Even if we are not actually marking the holiday, at least we get to the chance to be part of the event here. Coming in at full speed this week is the Year of the Horse, with ethnic Chinese around the world observing the auspicious Lunar New Year. Our cover subjects, model-actresses Olga Lydia and Susan Bachtiar, have lived through interesting times in the nation’s history, including the changing fortunes of Chinese-Indonesians. After the precarious decades of the 1960s to 1990s, today ethnic Chinese are free to mark their new year as a national holiday. What stands out for me in Natasha Ishak’s cover story is that both women, of course, identify themselves as Indonesians who happen to be of Chinese descent in this great melting pot of a nation. In continuing the Chinese New Year theme, we have eats from five-star hotels and also neighboring Bandung, Chinese-inspired fashions and accessories and more. Happy new year to everyone observing it, and also to those of us who are not. Eat, drink, be merry and enjoy good fortune.
Bruce Emond
@JplusSunday
JplusSunday
SundayJplus
Check List
6
Oriental Update
New designs for traditional Chinese fashions.
10
Testing the Waters
Going with the flow of romantic Venice.
ON THE COVER Susan Bachtiar & Olga Lydia Photographer Ricko Sandy Stylist Erich Al Amin Make-up & Hair Kiky Lutan Susan’s Dress Mischa Earrings & Ring Rinaldy A. Yunardi Olga’s Dress Billy Tjong Earrings Rinaldy A. Yunardi Location Table8 Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta
JPlus Team Editor Bruce Emond I bruce@thejakartapost.com Deputy Editor Willy Wilson Art Director Budhi Hartono Graphic Designer Lody Andrian Marketing & Advertising Sales & Marketing Director Ady P. Pamungkas I ady.pamungkas@thejakartapost.com Marketing Executives Dewi Damayani I dewi.damayani@thejakartapost.com Sugeng Andrianto I sugeng.andrianto@thejakartapost.com
2
JPlus January 26, 2014
The meaning of Chinese New Year crosses borders and time zones. Words Jamie Irena Rayer Keet
In my first bewildering year alone in New York City 12 pre-Giuliani years ago, I spent an unusually frosty weekend with a group of complete strangers but ended up having the best “TCK Chinese New Year reunion dinner” I would remember for a long time. It wasn’t just that we overindulged in free delicacies (a student’s dream buffet of raw fish that simply dissolved upon contact with drool), or that the angpao red envelopes full of freshly minted dollars were generously handed out to us. I was a tropical fish out of sub-zero waters in a Gobi desert jam-packed with chatty curious folk immersed in Chinese New Year celebrations, and I never felt more at home than I did, well, at home. Wherever that may be. Truth is, I am a typical TCK (third culture kid). I fidget and can’t stay put in one country for more than a few weeks in one sitting; true to my TCK stereotype I feel “out of sync” with my peers most of the time. When I first came across the concept of the TCK a few years ago, I looked around for telltale signs of intelligence gatherers before falling out of my imaginary hammock. Finally! Someone who seemed to know me without knowing me at all! A term coined by the sociologist Ruth Hill Useem in the 1950s, TCK refers to children who spend a significant portion of their formative years away from their place of birth and subsequently “integrate aspects of their birth culture (the first culture) and the new culture (the second culture) to create a “third culture’”. In a nutshell, mixed up kids who don’t feel like they belong anywhere and have a hard time explaining where they’re from or where they’re going. Born in Singapore to WelshNorwegian and Chinese parents, I spent a considerable portion of my developing years shuffling between Asia, the Middle East, Europe and North America. As a child I enjoyed echoing the lyrics of music in languages I didn’t understand, while “my best friend” was an
interchangeable entity during my teenage years, something that came and went with the metamorphosis of the seasons. One thing that didn’t change, however, was family tradition during the Lunar New Year. Its familiar shadow danced in the foreground of my alien backdrops, a constant reminder of my ancestral roots and values. If thoughts transmogrify into action, routines translate into praxis. Chinese New Year in particular was a very special time for rituals. No matter where we were and whatever the state of my habitat, I’d give my dwelling a customary compulsory nostone-unturned spring clean. For the next 15 days, ll brooms and dustpans would be hidden away so as no one would unwittingly sweep away the good fortune that would have begun to settle in its new domain. This always delighted me; I felt I was in control of my destiny for the year. Then followed the trips to Chinatown and temples, where incense sticks were lit, fortunes told, promises made, and hopes and dreams murmured to colorful deities. Dumplings were homemade and savored before the kitchen god, fridges well stocked for prosperity, and plenty of rice eaten during the reunion dinner for harmony. The protective color red would be everywhere, from household decorations to firecrackers and underwear. Rounds were made to visit friends and family near and far. More than a decade has passed since that dinner where I was welcomed by the warm embrace of a shared culture, and yet it often reminds me – TCK or not, what better excuse is there to spend quality time with folks you love than celebrating a festive season together? Gong Xi Fa Cai!
table of friends
Gong Xi Fa Cai What are your thoughts on Chinese New Year?
@ReneCC
I am a typical Indonesian secular Muslim, urban Gen X who grew up during Soeharto’s New Order. This gives me a not-so-unique perspective about new years, especially Chinese New Year. I suppose I represent the silent majority that rarely speaks or be heard. Let me explain why. As an Indonesian urban Gen X, for the longest time, I celebrate just one new-year. This refers to the new year according to the Christian’s Gregorian calendar that was the only politically correct new-year sanctioned by the regime at that time. The largest Muslim population country celebrate Christian new year, kinda ironic huh? Not really, because we never really experienced or felt the new year as a religious festivity – thanks to my secular upbringing. As a Muslim, I became more aware of the Islamic version of new year as the year passes – though I never recall being religious about it – this time, again, I’d blame my secular upbringing ;) Chinese New Year? Now, this is relatively new for me. I remember my Chinese friends celebrated this version of new year very quietly – it was not allowed, or even illegal until Gus Dur’s presidency. Now, Chinese New Year is one of my favorite festivities. Love the colors, love the ambiance and most importantly, love the foods! This observation of many new years lead to one conclusion for me: Diversity may be weird, but it surely is beautiful and worth fighting for. Happy Chinese New Year, Edward who is Chinese by blood. The same wishes go to Ligwina and Iwet who look like they are :p. Let’s eat!
@iwetramadhan
Have I told you that in my previous life I was a clothmaker who lived in a small village in China? And I was a she ... Hehehe. This is perhaps the answer to my own questions for the longest time. I’ve been a big fan of Chinese culture and people from the time I was born. I studied Feng Shui in college. I also studied Chinese symbols and philosophy, and I learned Mandarin. And, yes, I also dated Chinese. Deep down inside I felt that I’m Chinese, even though there is no Chinese descent in either of my parents. And then the day came when the psychic told me the facts of my previous existence. No, I don’t celebrate Chinese New Year, but I enjoy visiting Chinese temples, cleaning my house and having my hair cut. And I do make sure to wear red as a symbol of hope and prosperity. I love the festivities, and all the details about them. In doing things, I am ready for the new year. Now, don’t forget to read your Chinese horoscope predictions. Be prepared :D
@zoyamirin
The cool thing about being born, growing up, living and working in Jakarta is that you are in touch with so many cultures. It’s a blessing. And one of those experiences is Chinese New Year. I have received the famous red envelope famous angpao’ many times hehehe... I think it’s for good fortune in love or something, especially when you are single. I still keep one in my purse as a fun keepsake after so many years. I enjoy watching the barongsai (lion dance) parade and the “manisan”, my favorite of the Chinese celebration. I always think every culture has their wisdom toward food, dress, party, family gatherings or whatever becomes part of a celebration. It is an honor to be invited to celebrate, and I always love to learn about other cultures. Like Edward says, there’s always good reason to celebrate and eat good food with family and great friends. Happy Lunar New Year all.
@mrshananto
What to do when you’re a triple majority? Being a Javanese Muslim woman, I have absolutely no relationship with Chinese New Year. But I am proud of. I am proud of introducing Chinese culture to my children. I want them to be citizens of the world. Of course they need to understand that we do not live alone in this world. More importantly, I want my children to recognize the Chinese community as part of Indonesia as a nation. So, the standard operating procedure for a corny Jakartan mom like me is to take my kids to the mall every Chinese New Year. We catch the dragon dance there, and my kids enjoy it. Hey, shouldn’t we know more about Chinese New Year? It should be more than dragon dance at the malls right? I’ll have to drag along Kokoh Edward to explain more about it to my kids. I’m sure it’ll be challenging for him too :) coz I know many Chinese Indonesians do not know the history and culture behind the new year’s celebration. I have three new years a year then: New Year’s New Year, Chinese Lunar New Year and the 1st Muharram Islamic New Year! Let’s simply embrace our differences and celebrate all the new years :)
@edwardsuhadi
Since I am the only Chinese here, I should be the one to explain how all this Chinese New Year stuff works. Except I can’t. You see, growing up under the Soeharto regime, it was extremely uncool to be Chinese. For a teenager, it was horrific dealing with the textbook bullying. We Chinese teenagers didn’t want to be Chinese. We wanted to be MTV and American. So we know all about Christmas and Thanksgiving but not Chinese New Year. Thank God, Chinese in smaller cities and towns kept the traditions alive. And then President Abdurrahman Wahid gave the word Chinese and pluralism his blessing. Chinese New Year became a national holiday. What was once observed quietly inside houses is now allowed and encouraged to be celebrated with parades on the main streets. My first real contact with Chinese New Year traditions was when I visited my sister-in-law’s home in Jambi a couple of years ago. It was awesome. Relatives came home from all over Indonesia, filling the home with love and laughter. And we ate. On New Year’s Eve the family enjoyed a special dinner. Dishes that took 2-3 days to prepare were served, and courses lasted for two hours. Dish after dish after dish came out, until we could barely stand. On the new year’s day, some pray to their elders, followed by visits of friends and relatives. Then came the visits of friends and relatives. And we ate and ate and ate. Next came angpao, tiny red packets filled with money that are supposed to bring good luck for the year ahead. The married kin gave to those who are single. It’s quite stressful when you’re married without children. Only withdrawals and no deposits :) All in all, it was a celebration of love, family and coming back to our roots. You know what kind of celebration it sounds like? Idul Fitri and Christmas. In Jambi they even refer to Chinese new year as “Lebaran Cina”. Whatever race, religion and ethnicity we are, we are all, essentially, the same. We just want to come home, pay our respects, hug our loved ones and eat like there’s no tomorrow. And I think we should remember that more often.
Join us at the table: send your feedback to @TOFChat and @JPlusSunday JPlus January 26, 2014
3
A la Mode
Horse Play
From luxury watches to cool sneakers, here’s a list of fashionable items to giddy up, stylishly, into the Year of the Horse. Words Willy Wilson
Fashion Notes
Photos: Chopard, Jaquet Droz, Cross, Adidas, Shanghai Tang & Moleskine, Gucci, Boucheron, Longchamp, Tiffany & Co.
People born in the Year of the Horse are believed to have passion for knowledge and travel. And what better present to give them than a quality, durable and oh-so-stylish notebook courtesy of Shanghai Tang and Moleskine? For the uninitiated, the former is a Hong Kongbased luxury fashion house that champions traditional Chinese aesthetic; the latter is a brand best known for its premium notebooks. This isn’t the first the two collaborated - last year they released a “snake” notebook. This year, Shanghai Tang and Moleskine are going to print a horse pattern on the cover of the notebook. The pattern is based on Song dynasty tangram puzzle, a traditional game with seven geometric pieces that must be arranged to create animals and other objects. Available in light blue, navy, and orange, the notebooks also feature a Feng Shui guide in both Chinese and English, a guide to Chinese horoscopes and a description of zodiac festivals.
4
JPlus January 26, 2014
Jaquet Droz
Golden Touch
Given the growing appetite for luxury watches in China, it is only natural that European watchmakers are vying to churn out the most exquisite Chinese New Year collections. Among the most talked about is Chopard’s Urishi collection and Jaquet Droz’ Aeliers d’Art series. Incorporating the traditional lacquering art known as urishi, which is basically the use of rare resin from hevea brasilienisis trees that grow in China and Japan, Chopard’s limited edition watches see meticulously sculptured horse figures. And in case you didn’t know, the resin, harvested only once a year in minute quantities, takes three to five years before it can be used as honey-textured lacquer for the watch. Another meticulous technique applied to this masterpiece is Maki-e, a traditional way of sprinkling gold dust using bamboo tubes. The glamor factor aside, the gold dust actually accentuates the horse sculpture.
Chopard
The alligator leather-strapped watch comes with an octagonal black-and-gold box, signifying the auspicious symbol in the Chinese tradition. Meanwhile, Jaquet Droz’ Ateliers d’Art series draws inspiration from Northwest American and Arabian thoroughbred horses. The unique collections comes in three different sizes – 39 mm, 41 mm and 43 mm. The highlight of the collection is Petite Heure Minute (41mm). This timepiece features a beautifully carved horse with the iconic Great Wall of China as a backdrop. 22 carat gold is the material of choice to construct the miniature of this unique, ancient architecture masterpiece. But if you prefer a bigger watch, then check out Petite Heure Minute (43 mm), which features a sculptural mustang on a black dial. The horse’s head on each watch is either painted or carved, while the strap is alligator leather.
A la Mode
Gucci Bouncheron
The Bling Ring
Although Gucci is known for its equestrian aesthetic, it doesn’t go all out celebrating the year of the horse – the Italian fashion powerhouse neither releases a special horse logo nor a special saddle bags. It does, however, revives its classic “horsebit” design in the form of ring and bracelet. Offering a more abstract horse reference than the very literal designs created by other brands, Gucci maintains a tasteful design that is true to its sophisticated identity. New York-based jewelry house Tiffany & Co. come out with a simple, classic necklace to celebrate Chinese New Year. Rumor has it that the 18-carat gold necklace is an online hit, selling out in a matter of days following its release. Meanwhile, Kering-owned French jewelry house Boucheron launches a collection of diamond and sapphire rings entitled Pégase – the flying horse in Greek mythology. With 200 round diamonds, 74 blue sapphires and 33 violet sapphires, the ring is something that the late Elizabeth Taylor would wear. And yes, it take a certain kind of woman to pull off such a sparkling piece of bling bling.
The Cool Factor Tiffany & Co.
Starting the new year on a sporty note, adidas Originals is releasing two limited edition of Tech Supper and Superstar 80 sneakers in bold colors and striking design. The sneakers come in gold and red, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. Subtle references to rich Chinese history are woven into each of the shoes, most visibly in the use of jacquard horse motif against the ethnic emblem in the background.
The Ink Link
Looking for the perfect Chinese New Year gift for your business partner? Keep it classy and professional with the limited edition of Cross Rollerball Pen, which features deep-cut engraving and 23 carat gold-plated overlays. Chinese imperial horse logo is etched on the bodice, which comes in red and white. The limited edition pen is presented in a handsome box with a pen stand and an informative booklet.
Leaps & Bounds
Has anyone noticed the increasingly visible Longchamp totes in Jakarta? (yes, many of them may very well be counterfeit, an unavoidable phenomenon as a fashion brand becomes more popular). Who wants to bet that Longchamp will become a major brand in Asia this year? While every brand is trying to jump on the “horse” bandwagon, Longchamp was already way ahead of the field as its official logo is a man riding a horse. The French leather goods company is taking part in the Chinese New Year celebration with a limited edition of its signature Le Pliage tote appliquéd with the iconic Longchamp horse.
JPlus January 26, 2014
5
style counsel
Eastern Promise It’s high time to give a modern, stylish reworking of traditional Chinese fashions.
Words Felicita Goentoro
F
lapper dresses may be identified with the 1920s, while power shoulders and big hair were the resounding statements of the 1980s. But fashion is delightfully dynamic and constantly adapts to changing times; witness the return of those “Gatsby”inspired ‘20s styles of 2013. Or take the nation’s most iconic textile, batik. In recent times, local designers have revived formal batik with new colors, materials and silhouettes. Thus, the traditional cloth has evolved and adapted to modern tastes. Likewise, the cheongsam need not go back under wraps after the Chinese New Year passes. Since its popularity in Chinese high society in the 1920s, the onepiece garment has evolved to accommodate changing lifestyles. Women in the workforce adopted tailorfitted cheongsam made of wool and other materials. Nowadays, it is rarely worn as everyday wear due to its restrictive nature and is reserved for formal occasions, or simplified versions as smart uniforms at luxury hotels and restaurants. Oriental-inspired designs crop up every so often in fashion, making them easier to work into a day-to-day wardrobe without having to look like you fished out an outfit from your poh poh’s (grandmother) wardrobe. The late, great French designer Yves Saint Laurent, hailing from the European nation with the greatest fascination with all things from the Orient, frequently looked eastward for inspiration. In Dries van Noten’s Fall 2012 collection, the Belgian designer brought in the iconic Shanghai collar and cheongsam-inspired dresses to the fore. Closer to home, and also the budgets of most consumers, are clothing labels like Cloth.ier and JiXiang Zhai that specialize in modern oriental clothing. They are creatively reworking the cheongsam and two-piece suits into easier silhouettes for modern times. First created and launched under Yapi Pte Ltd in January 2004, Cloth.ier focuses on oriental-themed ready to wear garments. The brand moves away from the typical scarlet and introduces a more contemporary palette: Their latest collection comprises toned down reds, soft grays and a pop of fuchsia. Modern twists like a skater skirt on a short cheongsam or a softly draped open-front jacket offer versatility to mix and match with other garments and accessories. JiXiang Zhai 吉祥斋 is the latest brand under the Yapi Pte Ltd portfolio. The brand already has over 100 outlets in China catering to customers who appreciate the Chinese culture of dressing. In 2011, it opened their first flagship store outside of
6
JPlus January 26, 2014
China in Singapore. JiXiang Zhai 吉祥斋 collections marry Chinese art and culture with the lifestyles of 21st-century women. The label showcased its latest Spring/ Summer collection at the London Fashion Week and Singapore JewelFest just last year. The Chinese influence was evident in details like the cut and collar, as well as figure-accentuating nipped in waists like the modernized cheongsam popular with the Chinese elite. Think deep indigo floor-length cheongsams with trains for eveningwear, or asymmetrical knee-length cheongsam in contrasting aquamarine and sunshine yellow from the Beijing Imperial collection and relaxed silhouettes for more casual gatherings from the Tranquility line. The Xiamen TuLou range is light and loose, featuring autumn hues such as pale coral and mint greens, with slits in the long skirts allowing graceful movement of the fabric. The Hangzhou Nanxun collection from JiXiang Zhai 吉祥斋 offer two-piece garments designed for colder weather. The collection has a more mature color palette, like dark purples and grays with bursts of subdued green and red, while remaining graceful with floral embellishment details. Give this Chinese New Year’s outfit a modern spin from the JiXiang Zhai and Cloth.ier collections, which can be found at The Shoppes in Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Fashion Facts
• The original cheongsam, also known as qipao, was not the body-hugging dress that has come into fashion in recent decades – it was a wide one-piece covering most of the body except for the head, hands and toes. • The 1960 movie The World of Suzie Wong starring Nancy Kwan briefly popularized the cheongsam in Western culture.
good Living
The People’s Place Local coffee chain Monolog chose a welcoming design to bring in customers and keep them coming back for more. Words & Photos Natasha Ishak
T
ake a stroll through any shopping mall in town and you will be sure to notice throngs of people holed up in the cafes and coffee shops. There is no escaping it: Jakartans love their coffee (as well as opportunities to hang out in public places). The rise of urban coffee culture in the 21st century in Jakarta has turned the regular caffeine run into a lifestyle rather than a necessity. And lucky for us coffee-crazed urbanites, there is a host of coffee spots across Jakarta to choose from. But taking their pick of a great selection of piping hot beverages is not the only thing that draws people to their favorite “perk-meup” venue. Decor and interior is another key element customers consider when choosing a place to enjoy their cup of java. Monolog Quality Coffee Co. is one of the few local coffee chains that boasts a stylish setting, without the emphasis on style being at the expense of the substance of quality food and drink. First opened in 2011, Monolog is located on the first floor of the Plaza Senayan building as part of a 600-square meter lot nestled amid the parking area. The space, which includes Italian restaurant and bar de’ luca, opposite the café, was designed to host a neighborhood of eateries and coffee shops. Co-founders Evie Karsoho and Fergie Tan agree it’s important
to create a social hub where people can relax and connect. “We live in a digital world,” Evie says of the realities of today’s society. “So we’re trying to create a space for real interaction, where people can make social connections like they used to before iPhones and tablets came into the picture.” In conceptualizing the design for Monolog, which took a good six months, easy bright elements were chosen over the dark tones and buff contours favored in most coffee shops. The glass windows and light wood paneling that adorn Monolog’s face create an open and inviting impression, which quickly draws attention. Industrial materials, such as steel, wood and brick work, are also incorporated to emphasize a clean yet unfinished look. A mix of vintage and modern furnishings give the space a hint of color without disrupting the bright template; classic pieces, like plastic eames chairs, mesh effortlessly with knick knacks handpicked from travels around town and abroad, among them retro posters and worn-out children’s books. The contrast of light hues with splashes of green, red and black among the décor results in an understated style that does not intimidate but is trendy enough to bring in the creative crowd. This serves well for Monolog’s “cater to all” agenda. “People can come to Monolog without thinking twice about their wardrobe and do whatever it is they want to do. They can grab a cup for the road after exercising, meet with clients for lunch or simply snag a spot to work,” Fergie explains. Monolog’s comfortable design, coupled with quality dining served under a local marquer, proves to be a winning combination. The coffee shop is usually abuzz with patrons, from families to corporate types frequenting the Senayan branch, as well as its second store at Pondok Indah’s Street Gallery. Fergie believes this is the result of the brand’s originality and approach.
“Of course we can’t please everybody,” Fergie argues. “But we try to create a brand that is close to everyone in terms of our designs, products as well as what we communicate. We want to give customers a place they can consider their second home. People feel an attachment to the space and I think that is important.”
The space after
The space before
JPlus January 26, 2014
7
cover story
Reasons to
Celebrate
Count Susan Bachtiar and Olga Lydia among Indonesians who are proud of their Ethnic heritage and national identity. Words Natasha Ishak Photos Ricko Sandy
8
JPlus January 26, 2014
I
Susan’s dress by Billy Tjong; ring by Rinaldy A. Yunardi: Olga’s dress by Stella Rissa; necklace by Rinaldy A. Yunardi
t’s that unmistakably colorful festive time of the year again. Flying golden dragons, lanterns and horses – riding in to replace the departing snake – hover above us everywhere. Raucously heralding the Lunar New Year are the rolling drums of barongsai lion dance performances. For model-actress Susan Bachtiar, 40, the holiday – known locally as Imlek – is a chance to reflect and gather with loved ones. Her family gathers at her sister’s home. Fellow entertainer Olga Lydia, 37, enjoys family and feasting. “My family loves Chinese food. We always get the whole family together and go someplace to eat and celebrate,” beams Olga, whose grandparents migrated to Indonesia
from Hubei province. With all the celebratory symbols around, it’s easy to forget the huge changes that have occurred for ChineseIndonesians during the early years of the 21st century. Despite their contributions in many areas of Indonesian society – business, the arts and culture, medicine, education – they were a favored scapegoat throughout Indonesia’s turbulent history, both in colonial times and independence. That was glaringly evident during the May 1998 riots, in which the Chinese-Indonesian community bore the brunt of the frustration at the economic meltdown and ineffectual Soeharto New Order regime, which had methodically outlawed displays of Chinese culture. The
riots were one of the darkest hours in the country’s history. But from the tragedy sprang a remarkable turnaround in the fortunes of ChineseIndonesians. Then president Abdurrahman Wahid, a proponent of pluralism, ushered in the new era by proposing the Lunar New Year as a national holiday in 2000. “I believe tragedies can mature a nation,” Olga states. “What we can take from the devastation is a sorry lesson of just how wrong racial discrimination truly is. And there seems to be vast changes among our society that we can be proud of.” “There have been major changes, particularly from public behavior. ChineseIndonesians have Gus Dur [Abdurrahman] to thank for this,” agrees Susan. “Now people are more open toward different ethnic group and religions. We see celebrations of Imlek and Christmas all around holidays, during which never would have happened back in the past. Even so, we still have a long way to go.” Both women have learned first-hand how judgmental people can be when it comes to skin color. But the two carry their ethnic identity with grace, and are proud to be Indonesian. “Yes, I have Chinese blood. Yes, I do look Chinese. But I am Indonesian,” Olga declares.
How much were Chinese traditions a part of your upbringing? Olga Lydia (OL): My father is Chinese-Javanese and his greater family still holds a lot of Chinese traditions so he only taught me and my siblings the basics. It’s funny because my grandparents came from China but their children learned to speak Mandarin at school, while I can’t speak Mandarin at all. But talk about me in Javanese and I’ll get you! Susan Bachtiar (SB): Not much. My father is the eighth generation of Chinese in our family, so my Chinese bloodline is quite distant. My mother’s mixed blood line is even more complex. She is what folks call peranakan baba [descendants of Chinese immigrants to the Malay peninsula in the 16th century who intermarried with Malays]. What Chinese cultural values are you most familiar with? OL: Little things, mostly about what to do and what not to do. For example, if you are giving money to a married couple there should be red elements on it, while if you make a donation to a grieving family the envelope must be white. These details are important to avoid disrespecting anyone.”
SB: “My late father always paid his respects to our ancestors with prayers on important dates. My siblings and I don’t really stick to any traditions though, except for the get-together at my sister’s on Imlek.” Susan, you started in the business during the New Order, Olga after its end. How did your Chinese identity affect your careers? SB: My big break was winning the MODE model search in 1990. During Soeharto’s time, there were next to no oriental-looking models on the scene. When I revealed I had a Chinese bloodline, people were taken aback. My parents warned me to watch what I say and an industry insider even advised me to keep my Chinese identity under wraps. But I didn’t care; I was young and stubborn and did it anyway. Whether people accept it or not, the reality is I have Chinese blood and there is nothing I can do to change that. OL: My oriental look is my advantage, even more so now with the rise of the East. But I was lucky to have started my career after the political reformation so it was a lot easier for me to deal with. But racism is not an issue exclusive to Indonesia. I’ve encountered a lot of racism working abroad, more so than here. In that respect, I see our country
has developed a great deal in terms of tolerance and acceptance compared to other neighboring countries, and we should be proud. What changes have you experienced directly? OL: I think there have been many legal changes in paperwork. ChineseIndonesians were required to process a legal document stating their Indonesian citizenship, which was very expensive. A cousin of mine could not receive her degree because she needed a letter of citizenship to submit her thesis. Now, more ethniccentric regulations have been removed. We can also see more ethnic minorities taking government positions. Why do you think the issue of tolerance is so important? SB: It is crucial for our children to understand heritage and culture outside their own. Not only will it help develop a tolerant mindset, but it is also part of their education; they learn about different traditions and what each tradition signifies. It is great to see the festive displays of different holidays in public but I think it is even greater for the benefit of the kids. And now my friends’ children are asking me for angpau when they’re not even Chinese [laughs].
Dress by Mel Ahyar; Hairpin by Rinaldy A. Yunardi
Dress by Billy Tjong; Necklace and ring by Rinaldy A. Yunardi
cover story
JPlus January 26, 2014
9
wanderlust
On the
Waterfront A look at five things to do in Venice, one of the most romantic cities in the world. Words Michelle Locke/AP
O
n a sunny day, when the Grand Canal is a sparkling ribbon of aquamarine embossed with boats ancient and modern, Venice can steal
your heart. And it can do a number on your wallet, too. Knocking back a Bellini cocktail at the Hemingway haunt of Harry’s Bar will cost you beaucoup euros. And taking a gondola ride? You don’t want to know how much. But here are five things to do in La Serenissima — as the serene city is sometimes called — that don’t cost a dime, or a pound of flesh.
10
JPlus January 26, 2014
wanderlust
THE SQUARE
Centrally located St. Mark’s Square — Piazza San Marco — is lined with shops and restaurants and is a must-see. Go early or late to avoid the worst crowds. You can go into the church for free, although there are fees to see the museum and other areas. Completely free: window shopping, people-watching and posing for selfies with the very friendly pigeons. Church hours, weekdays 9:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays and holidays 2 p.m.- 4 p.m., http:// www.basilicasanmarco.it/ . For a good map of the city, visit http:// www.veniceonline.it/Maps/Maps.asp .
THE BRIDGES
Venice is brimming with bridges. The Rialto, a stone arch lined with shops that crosses the Grand Canal at about the halfway point, is the most famous. The Academy Bridge — Ponte dell’ Accademia — between the Campo di San Vidal and Campo della Carita, also offers great views of the Grand Canal. The Bridge of Sighs connects the interrogation rooms at the Doge’s Palace ( just around the corner from St. Mark’s) with its historic prison cells. The bridge’s name described the sighs of prisoners as they were led to their fate. You have to pay to walk inside the covered bridge, but can get a good, free, view of the outside from the Paglia Bridge (Ponte della Paglia).
THE GHETTO
The word ghetto originated in Venice where a gated part of the city was designated as the Jewish quarter from the 16th century until 1797. A commonly cited explanation is that the word stems from an Italian word “getto” associated with an old foundry in the area. A bas relief sculpture by Arbit Blatas in the main square — Campo di Ghetto Nuovo in the Cannaregio district — commemorates the deaths of Venetian Jews killed in World War II. In addition to walking around the area, you can visit the Jewish Museum of Venice for 4 euros, http://www.museoebraico.it/ english/ .
THE BASILICA
The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute — St. Mary of Health — was built after an outbreak of the plague in 1630. Its ornate dome is a feature of the city skyline. Works inside include art by Tintoretto and Titian. Located in the Dorsoduro district, across the Grand Canal from St. Mark’s; take the No. 1 water bus to the Salute stop. Open 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. most days.
THE MUSIC MUSEUM
Classical music enthusiasts will enjoy the Museum of Music — Museo della Musica — a collection of instruments from the 17th to 19th centuries. The museum is in the Church of St. Maurizio, about a 15-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square, and celebrates Venice’s history as a center of instrument making. Open daily 10 a.m.-7 p.m., http://www.interpretiveneziani.com/ en/museo-della-musica.php .
Venetian Finds
St. Mark’s Square boasts free window shopping, peoplewatching and posing for selfies with the very friendly pigeons.
• Bicycling is forbidden in Venice’s historic city center. Cyclists are fined. • The city is sinking at a yearly rate of 1-2 millimeters. • It only got its first female gondolier in 2010. • Regular “Acqua Alta” high-water floods regularly leave up to 2 meters of water in the city’s lowest-lying streets. They only last a few hours, though. • Two arch-linked houses are signs that the same family owned both of them. • It has 118 islands, 177 canals, 350 gondolas and over 400 bridges. • It was founded by people escaping
barbarian invasions. Its watery landscape made it hard for the Huns to infiltrate. • Most famous Venetians: Merchant traveler Marco Polo, master violinist Antonio Vivaldi and womanizer Giacomo Casanova. • Popular films set there include Summertime (1955), Moonraker (1979), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) and The Tourist (2010). • Home to a “cursed palace,” the Ca’Dario, whose owners were all reportedly afflicted by unexplainable deaths.
JPlus January 26, 2014
11
dining OUT
Five-Star
Festivities Grand Hyatt Hotel Jakarta
Grand Hyatt Jakarta is ready to welcome guests to celebrate the Lunar New Year together with family and friends at its C’s Steak & Seafood Restaurant and Grand Café. If you are a fan of Yee Shang (fresh salad served with strips of raw fish and a wide variety of sauces), waste no time and book a table at C’s now. But if you prefer a buffet dinner offering traditional Chinese dishes, then Grand Café is your place. The buffet costs Rp 488,000 for adult and Rp 244,000 for children under 12 years old. Keeping guests entertained are the Lion dance and Cai Shen Ye (the god of fortune), who will hand out chocolate coins as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Article from jakpost/travel.com
Everybody can get into the spirit of the Chinese New Year at leading hotels in Jakarta. Words Novani Nugrahani
Looking for a perfect setting to celebrate the New Year with your loved ones? Here are some ideas for doing it in style in Jakarta’s five-stars hotels.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Jakarta
Executive Chinese chef Jeff Lee presents three family set menus starting from Jan. 15 to Feb. 16 to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The special menus will include double-boiled fish maw and conpoy in golden supreme broth; wok-fried, premium, grain-fed beef; and rib eye in pepper. For the dessert, try the chilled cream of mango with sago pearls, pomelo and lime sorbet or snowy skin nian gao dumplings filled with macadamia and coconut crumbs. Guests can enjoy these savory dishes with prices starting from Rp 688,000 up to Rp 1,388,000. The family set menu will be preceded by the Yee Shang , a traditional appetizer that is believed to bring good luck for the coming year. Fish-skin crackers, XO sauce and other special seasoning are added to enrich the Yee Shang’s flavor.
12
JPlus January 26, 2014
Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta
On Jan. 30-31, lion dance performance will enliven Mandarin Oriental Jakarta. The celebration will continue up to Feb. 8, on which day Joseph Cha, a geomancy expert from Hong Kong, will perform Chinese rituals and ceremonies to bring good luck and draw positive energy.
There will be plenty to choose from in celebrating the Lunar New Year at the landmark hotel, with special Chinese New Year menus at The Café, Edogin, Orient8 and Table8, the award-winning Chinese restaurant that specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisines (and the location of this week’s JPlus cover shoot). To spread the festive joy to family members, friends and business associates of its loyal patrons, there are Mulia Gift Cards, which can be spent by the bearer on all good and service throughout the hotel. The cards are available at the hotel’s Business Centre, located on the Mezzanine Level. Alternatively, there are prosperity hampers or sweet Nian Gao treats available to send one’s wishes of good luck and prosperity during the festivities. On Jan. 30-31, there will be a spectacular Lion Dance performance in the hotel’s main areas to banish evil spirits (so if you are an evil spirit, better stay away). For further information, contact (021) 5747777 ext. 4715 / 4720.
taste BUD
Sichuan sensation
Words & Photos Theodora Hurustiati
L
unar New Year is the most important celebration for a Chinese family, including mine when I was growing up in Jakarta. There were a couple of reasons I looked forward to it, beginning with angpau – those red envelopes containing money – I gleefully received from my grandparents and elder relatives. The other one was, of course, food. Grandma, who was a great home cook, would start preparing New Year’s specialties weeks ahead. The dining table was always full of festive and elaborate dishes that she cooked once a year for the occasion. I learned later on that the Chinese believe that certain ingredients have specific meaning, either because of its color symbolizes an emotion or because its name sounds like another word with positive significance. Cooking, or eating, particular dishes is considered to be equivalent to making prayers for the coming year. Sichuan Salt and Pepper Prawns is my modern take on a Chinese classic. Instead of serving the prawns with
• Clean Sichuan pepper from the black seeds. Dry roast with coarse salt over the lowest heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Grind with pestle and mortar until fine. You may not need to use all the peppery salt. Keep the remaining in an airtight container and use it within a month or it looses its fragrance. • Peel and devein prawns. Coat with Sichuan pepper salt to taste and drizzle with a tablespoon of oil. Set aside. • Meanwhile, wash lettuce and choose the crisp younger leaves on the core. Use the rest for other purposes. Jakarta-born chef Theodora Hurustiati, an 11-year resident of Udine, Italy, was the runner-up in the TV cooking program La Scuola – Cucina di Classe (The School: Classy Cooking) in 2011.
rice, I put them on lettuce “boats” to be served as appetizers. With this dish, I wish you harmony, happiness and prosperity! Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Serves 5-8 25 pieces (about 500 g) medium prawns 1 teaspoon Sichuan pepper 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt 2 heads of green lettuce 2 bellpeppers (yellow and red) 1 large carrot 1 large zucchini 1 spring onion Vegetable oil Fine salt
• Cut spring onion into fine strips and immerse in a bowl of icy water. Finely diced the rest of the vegetables into 3-millimeter cubes. • Heat a bit of oil in a wok and sauté the vegetables in this order; carrot, bell peppers and zucchini. Giving two minutes of cooking time before adding each one. Season with salt. • Sear prawns on a hot griddle pan, one minute on each side, until just cooked. They’re ready once they turn bright orange and opaque. They loose their juiciness and become rubbery when overcook. • Arrange lettuce “boats” on a serving tray. Fill each one with a tablespoon of the sautéed mix vegetables and a prawn. Garnish with few strips of spring onion and serve warm. • Handy Hint • To keep a deveined prawn intact, simply insert the point of a bamboo skewer on the back and carefully pick and pull the vein out.
JPlus January 26, 2014
13
TRENDS
Bandung’s Best Chinese Food The West java capital’s most popular Chinese eateries. Words & Photos Icha Rahmanti
14
JPlus January 26, 2014
TRENDS Mandarin songs on stage. According to Sulaiman Ipoenk, Grand Eastern’s marketing staff, during weekdays the restaurant is less crowded than on the weekend, when an array of dim sum is served from 7 a.m onward. “Although mainly we serve modern Chinese dish, we have sushi too,” explained Ipoenk. Due to popular demand, the restaurant serves dim sum for breakfast, lunch as well as dinner. I sampled some of the dim sum and the restaurant’s signature dish, Kiwi Duck with Lemon Sauce. The dim sum was nice, and so was The Kiwi Duck dish. Grand Eastern opens daily, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Fat Panda Suki Bar
Eastern Restaurant
Located on the ground floor of Istana Plaza mall, Eastern is a popular Chinese joint best known for its delicious and affordable buffet (Rp. 150,000). Customer Raina Dwiyana praised the restaurant for its value for money. The restaurant has a modern interior with oriental touches. Raina recommends Eastern’s dim sum such as bak pao, hakau and shrimp. cake. She also likes the broccoli with oyster sauce. On my visit to Eastern, I sampled the restaurant’s signature quail and fish soup, two kailan vegetable dishes, the shrimp cake, beef shank slices marinated in garlic sauce and the waiter’s recommendation of The Eastern Kingdom Fried Rice. I found the food delicious but not up to par with some of the other establishments I have been to. But I was really impressed by the restaurant’s quail soup, served inside a bamboo tube. Eastern Restaurant opens daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with breaks in between and opens again at 6-9 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, the restaurant opens from 7 a.m. for dim sum and closes at 10 p.m.
Grand Eastern
Located on Jl. Pasirkaliki No. 18, Grand Eastern is famous for its grand ballroom and modern Chinese fusion food. My visit happened to coincide with the 10th anniversary reunion of the Xin Zhong Chinese School. It was definitely a memorable event, with performers dressed in ball gowns and fancy kebayas belting out
The recently opened Chinese restaurant is located on Jl. Progo, a street famous for its chic cafes and restaurants. It might look small from the outside, but Fat Panda actually has a vast dining area and impressive interior. Walk in to the reception area and Chinese decorative items and cute panda images will greet you. “There are no slim pandas,” Bagus Haryadi, the restaurant’s manager half-jokingly explained the name. According to Bagus, the restaurant aims to cater to many different customers from students to families. “We have halal certificate too. Everything we cook here uses halal ingredients and we make our own sauces,” Bagus said.
The food here is delicious and very affordable. I sampled Fat Panda’s signature dishes of Beef Steak Cantonese (Rp 59,000); Deep Fried Prawn with Salted Egg (Rp 49,000); Szechuan Chicken (Rp 39,000); and fried ice cream dessert (Rp 22,500). I ended my pleasant dinner with a fortune cookie.
Queen International Restaurant
This prominent restaurant on Jl. Dalem Kaum No. 79 has been around since 1954, and its flashy billboard ensures potential guests know where to find it. While the neighborhood is a bit shabby, the interior is comforting, classic, and elegant. In keeping with the high end fell, many patrons dress up for the occasion too. Queen has gained favorable reputation over the years thanks to its excellent food and service. Red and gold ornaments dominate the restaurant, which serves as an odd background for office-style chairs. I visited the restaurant with a friend, who ordered Queen’s signature Babi Hong (Rp 105,000), with a small serving of Yang Chow-styled fried rice (Rp 75,000). According to her, the pork was very tender, sweet and rich in herbs and spices. She enjoyed the fried rice too as the tiny bits of crispy bacon gave the salty fried rice
an extra kick. Another favorite dish at Queen is Juanlo, the restaurant’s take on steamboat soup. This costs Rp 1,250,000 for 4 adults. All the dishes at Queen come in small, medium or large portions and prices range from Rp 92,500 to Rp 410,000. Queen International Restaurant opens daily from 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. and from 5.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. On weekends, booking in advance is highly advisable.
Rose Flower Restaurant
This Chinese restaurant on Jl. A. Yani No.32 is humble in appearance but nevertheless has many loyal customers. Fani, the owner, shared that the restaurant was established in 1984 when her father was the cook. After his passing, her late husband, Gatot, took over. These days Fani runs the restaurant herself with the help of her loyal staff of more than 15 years. Fani’s grandmother used to sell noodles on Jl. Dalam Kaum in 1945. Retaining the family tradition of serving no-frills Chinese dishes, Fani said “we offer simple, everyday Chinese food in Rose Flower”. I tried their signature dish Angsio Hoysum, vegetables with mushrooms and sea cucumber in thick sauce (Rp 300,000) - something foodies have to try at least once because of its unusual ingredient. According to Fani, it is usually ordered for special events such as reunions or birthday parties. I also tried the Kepiting Saos Tiram, crab dish in oyster sauce (Rp 250,000) and their Udang Telor Asin, fried shrimp noodle with bread crumbs (Rp 135,000). The crab dish is nice, but the shrimp dish was delicious. Rose Flower Restaurant opens from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Article from jakpost/travel.com
JPlus January 26, 2014
15
20/ 20 Born in Paris and partly raised in Manila, actress Jajang C. Noer was a third-culture kid long before the term became popular. She admits she was a tomboy and, at age 51 and a grandmother, she is still disarmingly blunt. Jajang has an extensive silver screen portfolio dating back more than 30 years, and is probably best known for her My best trait … I am true to myself. I’m afraid to lie to myself, so I do things for myself, not for other people because I want to go to heaven. They say if you want to go to heaven you have to be good, so being good is by being true. You know yourself what is good and bad because God gave us the capacity to think. I beliefe what God gives us must be the best. And worst … Ah! I hold grudges. I remember all the people who have been good to me, as well as those who were not. What motivates me … Life – because I’m living, so I have to do things that make me stay alive to sustain my life, like dancing.
‘I’m irritated by hypocrites, liars and show-offs’
The last time I really laughed … Two minutes ago? I always laugh. My biggest achievement … My two kids. Growing up I was a tomboy, considered unfeminine and not motherly. Often it surprises people that I had children.
1992 flick Bibir Mer (Mer’s Lips). She is currently shooting a new film with director Angga Sasongko titled Cahaya Dari Timur (The Light from the East), in which she plays a mother of a teenage member of a soccer club.
What I wish I knew 30 years ago … How to raise children the correct way. People would be surprised to know … That I still drive. For me, home is … Where my loved ones are. I am irritated by … People who lie, hypocrites and show-offs. Best thing about Indonesian culture … The various traditional wear. You have your short kebaya, kurung and all these traditional costumes. I like to collect … Ashtrays, but they have to have the name of the place printed on them. I don’t buy them – I take them from places that I’ve visited, like a souvenir to remind me that I’ve been to that hotel or restaurant. Success to me is … Happiness and contentment. The best advice I received … Fidelity to duty and love of simplicity. I got that from my grade school days in
Assumption Convent (now Assumption College) I attended in Manila. It was their motto. And given … Be true to yourself. Favorite holiday destination … Nowhere really. Every day that I’m not working is a holiday to me. I love travelling – I usually get invited for some festival, seminar or shooting. There’s no particular favorite place. And book … Hm … I don’t think I have any. I read anything, except economy and sports. First thing I do in the morning … Turn on the TV set, usually to watch the news or read the running text if the program is no longer about the news, and check my two cell phones. My true passion is … What is passion?Remember me as … A nice person. Not necessarily good, but nice (laughs). + Words & Illustration Felicita Goentoro
talk of the town
Chinese fashion and turkish treats TURKUAZ RESTAURANT GATHERING Turkish restaurant Turkuaz welcomed patrons and friends following its refurbishment in December. Exciting new additions are its Baklava House – serving myriad versions of the sweet treat – and Gallery with a range of authentic wares. Owners Sezai and Yanti Zorlu also introduced their new partner, Ozgur Zorlu, Sezai’s brother, to keep everything in the family way.
Christina Panarese, Agam Riadi and friends
Irene Kusma
GALERIES LAFAYETTE CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
Galeries Lafayette took a ride on the style side with a special celebration to welcome the upcoming Year of the Horse. Socialites came out in force on Jan. 16 for the fashion show, themed“Dusk & Dawn”, by the talented design duo of Sebastian Gunawan and Christina Panarese for VOTUM.
16
JPlus January 26, 2014
Ardistia
Yuli Grillon
Ozgur, Nada, Yanti & Sezai Zorlu
Lily Tjhang, Erza ST, Yanti Zorlu & Alistair Speirs