Vol. 2 No. 34 I June 28 - July 4, 2015
Ramadhan
Flair
Alluring Islamic Couture
Behind the bowtie Luxury hotel butlers
Inspiring Islamic Art A Feast for the eyes
Noted in passing
Check List
Art and soul This issue we offer you a bevy of Ramadhan-themed articles for the fasting month. Our cover story is on Galeries Lafayette’s “Fascinating Ramadhan” trunk show this week. After seeing the looks presented by the talented designers at the show, it’s easy to see why Indonesians are setting the tone for Muslim haute couture. Also please catch our article on the best of Islamic art – something to nourish the spirit during fasting month. Researching the piece was illuminating, as we delved into museums in Qatar, Australia and Malaysia. We found a few surprises for you. The US Library of Congress, for example, hosts an online collection of Islamic manuscripts dating back more than half a millennium. Its online collections offers Islamic works on medicine, anatomy and even astronomy that are standalone pieces of art – despite their scientific themes. It’s worth taking a look, even virtually. While we may not make it to the overseas museums mentioned in the article any time soon, this reminds me of how much art there is
to see in Jakarta, as well. Don’t dismiss what the city has to offer. There are 49 or so museums in Greater Jakarta, according to one count. Although I’m just over half way to having visited them all, I’m still finding new things. The Museum Basuki Abdullah, for example, is a brief walk – not a drive, but a walk - from the biggest mall in Cilandak, South Jakarta. It’s a rarely visited place, but full of friendly staff who will walk you through the portrait artist’s renditions of Sukarno and Soeharto – as well as the King of Thailand, former Filipino first lady Imelda Marcos, along with a few of the maestro’s stunning landscapes. It inspires me to keep looking for art and the creative experience as I explore Jakarta. Best wishes for a blessed Ramadhan, for all who observe. Enjoy the weekend, everyone. Chris jplus@thejakartapost.com
mark my words
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A faith/fashion fusion
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Feasts from the Middle East
JPlus Team
A BROADER LESSON THE FASTING MONTH CAN INSPIRE EVERYONE, REGARDLESS OF FAITH WORDS ANITA OTHMAN
Editor Christian Razukas Art Director Budhi Hartono Marketing & Advertising Sales & Marketing Director Ady P. Pamungkas
ady.pamungkas@thejakartapost.com
Marketing Executive Dewi Damayani
dewi.damayani@thejakartapost.com
ramadhan often brings out the best in us. The patience and endurance Muslims go through are widely accepted values common to many other religions too. We can therefore gain solace that despite our differences in color, faith and sexual orientation, for the majority of us it is the love, respect, decency and kindness we share that matters most. I know of many real life stories that give us hope, stories that remind us time and again that it really doesn’t matter who you worship - or what culture you were brought up in. My friend Mark, a Singapore-based personal trainer in his early-30s who converted to Islam four years ago shared with me a wonderful account. Born to traditional Chinese Taoist parents, he grew up knowing only ancestral worship. In his mid-twenties, he discovered Islam and realized that it was the faith for him. His mother accepted his decision without rancour and embraced the ‘new’ him. She even bought a new set of pots and pans to comply with his dietary requirements and sets aside a specific place for him to perform his daily prayers. And during the month of Ramadhan, she accompanies him when he wakes up before dawn to have breakfast - and in the
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evenings, she encourages him to break fast at home. Another acquaintance of mine - Sally, an Indonesian real estate agent in her mid-30s who married a Muslim - shares a similar story. Her parents, who are devout Catholics, continue to play an important role in their married lives. They even look after Sally’s children, who live with them in Bandung from Monday to Friday, while Sally and her husband continue to work in Jakarta during the work week. The beauty of this arrangement is that their three children have been exposed to religious tolerance and understanding at an early age – something that many young people today could learn from. And the fun part is that they get to celebrate two festivals- Christmas and Idul Fitri. More than the other cities I have visited, I feel that most Muslims in Jakarta celebrate Ramadhan in a way that is commendable. The many breaking-the-fast events and dinners held in the city, for example, are often opportunities for Jakartans of all faiths to come together and celebrate as one community. This inclusive spirit by the adherents of
the majority faith of the nation - and the openness of minorities - is something we should never take for granted. Just read about the inter-religious conflicts in other places. I also find it very heartening that Muslims in Jakarta try to get on with their daily tasks during the fasting month as if it were business as usual. Ipah, a maid that I once knew, never did make a fuss during fasting month, for example. She carried out her duties as per normal, even though she was up at 4:30 a.m. to cook for her family and then leaving for work at 7 a.m. Her husband, a spry and energetic gardener performed his duties without complaint, even though he was often under the hot sun. There also appears to be less judgement here for people who do not fast, as most of them accept that religion is a personal matter and it is up to the individual concerned. Ramadhan with its visible fasting and audible prayers is a month where Islam is on public display. It is a season when the faithful should be reminded of the Muslim precepts of patience, kindness and charity. And the season also offers a timely reminder for the adherents other faiths to reflect on the values and meanings of their own religion.
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ON THE COVER A montage of models from Galeries Lafayette's trunk show. Photo Wendra Ajistyatama & Galeries Lafayette
Photos courtesy of Tourism New Zealand, Fraser Clements and Chris McLennan
A gastronomic adventure
For foodies, tasting the cuisine and wines of New Zealand is a must New Zealand is an absolute heaven for the gastronomically inclined, with vineyards located in most every region of the country. On the menu are a bevy of local wines that can be paired perfectly with exquisite dishes made with local ingredients. There’s an array of dining atmospheres, too. Why not indulge yourself and a loved one with a luxurious dinner and an awardwinning pinot noir at the Winery Restaurant in Central Otago? You can also try wines while cycling around a vineyard in Hawke’s Bay - or enjoy an intimate experience mingling with Kiwis in local farmers’ markets. You can also experience and savor an authentic traditional meal with New Zealand’s indigenous Maori people. The nation’s innovative chefs are famous for their culinary creations, combining
fresh ingredients from their gardens and plantations with local harvested seafood – all prepared with a distinctive Pacific flair and with organic food touches that makes for unique and delicious meals. Here are some tips on enjoying a New Zealand culinary adventure. Blaze a trail Taste your way through the nation’s most famous wine regions on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, which runs from Hawkes Bay on North Island, down to Marlborough on South Island - with stops along the way in Martinborough and Central Otago. While on the road, you’ll have a chance to sample wines at more than 120 vineyards, as well as at a multitude of restaurants and cafes. The journey will
also give you an unforgettable experience enjoying New Zealand’s gorgeous countryside, beautiful forest parks, nightlife in the city – and more than a few indulgent food experiences. If you want a truly comprehensive wine tour, add West Auckland and Gisborne on North Island, and Canterbury on South Island to your itinerary. Nelson and Marlborough Spend your days enjoying wine in the sunshine and your nights exploring these two regions, both located at the northern tip of New Zealand’s quiet South Island. While Nelson’s vintners produce wines such as pinot noir and chardonnay, Marlborough is the nation’s so-called capital of sauvignon blanc.
Also on offer are locally cultivated fruits and freshly caught seafood that provides unforgettable picturesque landscape. Dishes are typically simply prepared and are best matched with one of the exquisite local vintages. Let’s get the party started New Zealand hosts many kindsof festivals sure to delight your hidden gastronome or oenophile (wine lover). From the Bluff Oyster Festival and the Whitianga Scallop Festival to the Dunedin Cadbury Chocolate Carnival and the Taste of Auckland, there’s something for everyone’s taste. For more information, visit newzealand. com/id/feature/food-and-wine-festivals.
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S E E I N G
T H E
B I G
P I C T U R E
A GLIMPSE OF ISLAMIC ART FOR RAMADHAN WORDS Prasiddha Gustanto
Islamic Museum of Australia (islamicmuseum.org.au) bills itself as an “Islamic Exploratorium” with five major galleries. Items in the collection range from 7th-century artifacts to the works of contemporary artists. Of note is a gallery offering a history of Islam in Australia.
Religion and spirituality have always been rich sources of inspiration for artists. From the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel to the Emerald Buddha in Thailand, some of the greatest creations have resulted from artists aspiring to represent their religious devotion or to celebrate their beliefs. Islam, too, has had a long tradition of great art in the service of faith. As Ramadhan continues, here are some highlights of the best of Islamic art available at museums and online - for those seeking a glimpse of the numinous during the fasting month. Museums The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar, houses one of the world’s most complete collections of Islamic artifacts, with exhibits from the Islamic diaspora to Europe, Africa and Central Asia. There are ceramic pieces, paintings, textiles and glass works dating as far back at the 7th century. One particular highlight is the oldest surviving Islamic astrolabe, likely made in Iraq in the 9th century but more found in shallow waters off Malaysia. Visit the museum online at mia.org.qa/en. Other great Islamic museums can be
found closer to home, such as the Islamic Arts Museum (iamm.org.my) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Boasting a collection of more than 8,000 objects, the museum is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Its galleries are housed in a vast open area, allowing for uninterrupted movement from one exhibit to the next - an idea inspired by the Islamic notion of continuity. The museum also has a special gallery dedicated to Islam in China, India and the Malay world that is hosting an exhibit on Islamic arms and armor that ends Aug. 31. To the South, the recently opened
Calligraphy Islamic art eschews representation in favor of a focus on abstraction and patterns, including ornate Arabic calligraphy. One of the world’s most celebrated calligraphers remains Mir Emad Hassani, who died in 1615. Hassani is famous for his work using the Nasta’liq cursive script that is still widely used to transcribe poetry in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan. Some of Hassani’s works can be seen at museums around the world, including a safinah fragment that praises God while describing people’s inability to comprehend His word. One of the biggest collections of Islamic calligraphy can be found in the US, at the Smithsonian’s Freer-Sackler galleries.
That museum’s Arts of the Islamic World collection houses more than 2,200 objects dating as far back as the 9th century, including Korans with intact volumes and detached folios from Iran, the Arab world and Turkey, some of which were written in ancient kufic script. More conveniently for the Internet surfer, hundreds of other Arabic-script calligraphy sheets dating from between the 9th and 19th centuries can be seen at the US Library of Congress’s website, international.loc.gov. Of note there are the lyrical works of the famous Persian poet Shaykh Sa’di. Artistic Korans While figurative depictions in the Koran are forbidden, Islamic artists throughout the ages have found other ways to add an artistic flavor to this holiest of books. For instance, Palembang, South Sumatra is home to the world’s largest Koran carved from wood. Work on this book, which is called the Al-Quran Al Akbar, took seven years and cost of Rp 2 billion. Weighing 50 kilograms, the “book” consists of 315 revolving timber panels with Koranic verses are carved on both sides. Meanwhile, the British Library houses Sultan Baybars’ Koran, which was made in Cairo between 1304 and 1306. Each of its seven volumes, which are written in gold, has a frontispiece that combines intricate geometric patterns and ornamental script. An equally elaborate Koran can be found in the Pierpont Morgan Library in the US. The Jerr Pasha Koran was made in Shiraz, Persia in around 1580. The pages of this gigantic Koran are richly decorated, with the opening surah having lines of text enclosed within a gold-lobed medallion.
NEWS FOR YOU
Indonesian wanderers in Singapore
The history and development of Indonesia’s diasporic Minangkabau ethnic group in Singapore is currently showcased as part of an exhibition in the Lion City’s Malay Heritage Center (MHC). Titled “Marantau: Dima Bumi Dipijak Di Sinan Langik Dijunjuang”, the exhibit is the largest on the Minangkabau in Singapore to date and will feature over 60 community-contributed artifacts highlighting various aspects of their culture and way of life. The event is co-curated by MHC and the Singapore Minangkabau Association (SMA). “We are excited to work with MHC on this exhibition to present the uniqueness of the
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Minangkabau culture,” SMA president Irianto Safari said. “It is a fitting exhibition to celebrate our nation’s 50th year of independence.” As part of the exhibit, the MHC and SMA will present a number of exciting programs, including music, drama and dance performances as well as talks – to provide deeper insights into all things Minangkabau. The exhibit ends Sept. 13. For more information, visit malayheritage.org.sg. Some famous Singaporean Minangkabau: Yusof Ishak: Singapore’s first president. Zubir Said: Composer of the Singaporean national anthem. Eunos Abdullah: The “father” of modern Malay journalism. Adnan bin Saidi: A Malayan freedom fighter who fought the Japanese during the Battle of Singapore in the Second World War.
Handiwirman makes Tokyo bow The TOLOT/heuristic art space in Tokto, Japan, is currently presenting the works of Indonesian artist Handiwirman Saputra. The exhibit, titled “Material Matters” and set to run until July 25, is a concise retrospective of the West Sumatran artist’s career and comprises five sections that cover key developments in his practice over the past two decades. “Material Matters” is Saputra’s first solo exhibition in Japan and presents 14 works, including two new pieces. Born in 1975, Saputra is a founding member of the Jendela Art Group, an important collective in the development of contemporary Indonesian art. He is known for bringing fresh perspectives to common, everyday items by transforming them into unique visual arrangements.
P rofile
Urban Redesign WORD AND PHOTOS Mary K. Higgens
R
obert C. Whitlock spends his weekends just like any other average man, relaxing at home with his wife. But during the weekdays, the award-winning architect has a not-so-average job, as he’s literally changing the face of cities across the world. Whitlock is a design principal at the New York-based firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), where he has worked as a high-rise specialist for the better part of two decades. The accomplished architect is the designer behind Singapore’s Marina Bay Financial Center, Hong Kong’s Hysan Place (the city’s first LEED Platinum building) and Jakarta’s very own BSD City (the city’s largest exurban development). As is evinced by his resume, Whitlock focuses much of his talents on reshaping and rethinking Asia’s urban landscapes. A large part of his job is to design these magnificent and complex structures, but there’s more to what he does than meets the eye. “When you start working at that scale, the design process becomes more of a focus than on the building itself […] it sets the stage for the buildings that follow [and] has the ability to influence the area around it,” he says. Whitlock must think beyond the building itself and analyze the way each of his structures will contribute to its specific urban environment. His goal is to create sustainable urban communities that will ultimately better the lives of citizens.
this interest is one of the many reasons he has stayed with KPF for so many years. “[I] was immediately smitten by the work they were doing,” he says. “It was a lot of energy, a lot of design focus.” According to Whitlock, he started at KPF in the 1980s, a time when office buildings were starting to define the character of cities. “They were internally planned without much thought of how they affect the city fabric.” It’s a trend Whitlock is keen on changing. His work in Jakarta is a prime example. “We are currently working in Jakarta, all over Southeast Asia and New York, and each of those places has a different urban environment,” he says. “Jakarta has been one of the more complex places to work, in that by virtue of its physical size it easily confounds the desire for buildings to have a dialogue with each other.” “When Jakarta was booming in the ‘60s and ‘70s there wasn’t a lot of money. Each building became its own little walled compound. The city was not initially conceived […] as a pedestrian one. One of the things that was a clear objective was to break through the mentality that has led to that.” Whitlock plans to do just that with his latest project, Sequis Tower. His latest contribution to Jakarta’s skyline will be located in the Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) and is slated to open in 2018. With this sustainable building project he is setting an example for what he hopes will be the future of Jakarta’s urban landscape. Instead of being a contained unit, like so many of Jakarta’s high rises, Sequis Tower will link with the SCBD and the arterial Jl. Sudirman to alleviate the burden of
commuters by reducing the time they have to sit in the city’s notorious traffic. The area will also be a pedestrian-friendly one, easily connecting the area’s office buildings, restaurants, malls and hotels. Because Sequis Tower will be built adjacent to another KPF project, Whitlock plans to connect the sites and to create a more sustainable design, complete with pedestrian links. Whitlock hopes that one day the site will also be the site of an MRT stop. “The challenge is that we can create buildings that are highly efficient, but if people are spending three hours a day in traffic, we’re killing ourselves to get to the office,” he says. “The buildings that we work on – the things that we see – the most sustainable model is mixed-use density centered over transit hubs. We’ve been involved in some master planning in Jakarta, creating local commercial centers [and] alternatives to having to be in a car. I think all of those things combined are […] sustainable both economically, socially [and] environmentally.” Whitlock’s goal is to build structures and set the stage for a livable and convenient urban environment that caters to the “office user of the future.” He admits that Jakarta has a long way to go, but he’s optimistic that the city is taking strides in the right direction and he is excited to be a part of it. “There’s a bit of a pendulum swing in Jakarta,” he says. “The past 25 years, the transformation that has taken place here is remarkable […] It’s such a different environment than the early days.” “[We are] trying to design an urban center and do it in a humane way, not a glass and concrete jungle. The spaces that result are the types of spaces that people want to go to after work or during work. You’re not going to get in your car at the end of the work day. You have a nice place to relax with friends until traffic dies down.”
Sustainable Future The Columbia graduate became fascinated with high rises and urban design early in his career. And
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talk of the TOWN
GAIKINDO TOUTS SMART MOBILITY AT ‘BUBKER’
Schelm String Quartet gives concert in Jakarta GKY Music Center, Grenville, West Jakarta The Schelm String Quartet, comprising Japanese violinists Masayuki Kino and Takuto Matsunoki, violist Kaito Ikeda and cellist Sakura Peatey Tashiro, recently concluded a master’s class for music teachers and students and gave a beautiful concert for the public in Jakarta. Held on June 21 to 22, the master’s class sought to improve the quality of classical music instruction at local universities by drilling promising Indonesian musicians,
be they teachers or students. The event was capped by a concert on June 22 at the GKY Music Center in Greenville, West Jakarta. Afterwards, the quartet continued their Indonesian tour at Yogyakarta’s Indonesian Arts Institute, where they were also slated to give a class and a concert.
Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta The organizers of the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) held a bukber, or a friendly fast breaking, on June 23 in Kebayoran Baru, to mark the show’s upcoming edition, which starts on Aug. 20 at the ICE in BSD City, Tangerang. The theme for this year’s show will be “Smart Mobility for the Future”, which means promoting vehicles with reduced energy consumption as well as those offering higher safety standards. GAIKINDO president director says that the event promises to be “more creative, innovative, challenging and spectacular”, and will offer 4x4 challenges, a car-jumping contest and a “supercar taxi ride” that will allow guests to ride taxi-style inside Ferraris, Lamborghinis and McLarens.
Footurama opens pop-up installation Art & Science, Grand Indonesia, Central Jakarta Footurama, the long-standing community of footwear appreciators and street-culture bloggers, has opened another pop-up installation, this time at the Art & Science bookstore in Grand Indonesia shopping center. The six-week show houses the Footurama’s latest free-form fabrication collection, along with a new addition to its City Pack series, celebrating the neighborhood of Menteng, Central Jakarta. Art and Science will be Footurama’s first stockist, offering a selected collection of Footurama t-shirts, sweatpants, sweatshirts and fast-selling Coach jackets.
BETAWI TUNES GET JAZZY AT GIK Grand Indonesia, Central Jakarta The Lantun Orchestra recently collaborated with the musician Indra Aziz for a concert filled with jazzy arrangements of classic songs of Jakarta’s indigenous Betawi people. The performers at this June 20 event at Galeri Indonesia Kaya (GIK) in Central Jakarta used Western instruments, such as the stand-up bass, drums, the piano, the flute, the trumpet– and even the xylophone, violins and accordions - to give these local tunes a worldlier flavor. The next day saw the Teater Abnon troupe collaborating with Sinar Noray for a tribute show honoring the late Mpok Nori, known for her work as a comedian, singer and for popularizing Betawi art, at an event that also took place at GIK.
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AT YOUR SERVICE
hospitality
BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE LUXURIOUS WORLD OF HOTEL BUTLERS. Words Sebastian Partogi photos Raffles Jakarta and AFP
Some hotels have “sun butlers” to help guests on the beach, while others offer “artisan soap butlers” or “fragrance concierges”. Closer to home, the Raffles Jakarta hotel is offering their guests certified hotel butlers. Put your notions of Upstairs, Downstairs or Downton Abbey aside. These butlers specialize in keeping people pleased throughout their stay at the hotel, from the preparation (and presentation) of food to how their laundry is done. Hotel marketing communications director Viana Igah said that service was at the core of the Raffles Jakarta’s butler program. “The program seeks to improve our service quality,” Viana says. “The prerequisite for excellent service, which is their passion for the hospitality industry. The passion to serve other people is the core drive of everyone working in the industry, from the general managers right down to junior staff members.” Jplus recently spoke with two of the hotel’s butlers, Esabella Regina and Lilik
Sutanto, who said that they recently graduated from a special five-day training held by instructors from the South Africa Butler Academy. The academy offers its students a chance to learn the standard English-butler skill set, with classes in silver service, table service, personal grooming, and etiquette and protocol, among other topics. While some of the academy’s students learn about wine, caviar, and - in a concession to changing times - high technology; others opt for more esoteric instruction, to become jet or yacht butlers. In Jakarta, the classes focused on developing hotel butlers, with training on how to control your emotions through mindfulness and meditation when the going gets tough. Seven employees from the 173-room Raffles Jakarta completed the training, leading to the hotel’s ceritifcation from the academy. Esabella says that satisfaction is at the core of a butler’s work. “Whenever a guest requests something, I always ask them: ‘Is there anything else you want?’, so their needs can be fulfilled real quick,” says the Bali native, who has been a butler at the Raffles Jakarta since October. “Furthermore, you should never make assumptions. You should always go for the details,” she adds. “For example, when a guest states that he likes to have milk in his coffee, you have to ask: ‘Do you want single or double espresso? What kind of milk you like, regular or skim? Do you want brown or white sugar or no sugar at all?’” The hotel offers butler service around the clock, as well as dedicated butler service. Sometimes, a butler accompanies guests when they venture outside the hotel or outside town, taking care of all of their guests’ dining needs while they're on the
road, Lilik says. Other times the butlers just provide comfort and support to a new visitor to Indonesia. “Sometimes when a guest requests a private butler, I also get to accompany them on their trips outside Jakarta, for example, to Puncak,” he said, referring to Jakarta’s favorite weekend mountain getaway. Lilik, who is also the Raffles Jakarta’s butler supervisor, says that keeping a stiff upper lip is all part of the job. “I never get offended,” Lilik, a 32-year-old Jakarta native, says. He’s phlegmatic when asked how he works to make customers happy. “I take incidents as an opportunity to learn: What should I do to turn a complaint into a compliment? I take this as a challenge.” Esabella echoed Lilik, saying that a butler needed to take the initiative to keep a guest happy. She spoke of one potential situation diffused when a guest was under stress before a big event. “She arrived late and had to rush with her makeup in order to catch the evening’s function,” Esabella said. The guest was getting angry, frustrated – and was hungry. “So I decided to make her a simple sandwich,” the 25-year-old said. Crisis averted. Esabella says that butlers are like actors. Once they don their ‘uniform’, they are on stage and must continuously present a hospitable demeanor to their guests, no matter how difficult the situation. But Lilik says that the hard work pays off when guests come back for another stay. “I am very happy to meet different types of people through my work at the hotel,” he says.
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parentingcorner
From dawn ‘til dusk
PARENTS AND PSYCHOLOGISTS SHARE HOW TO BEST TEACH KIDS ABOUT THE FAST WORDS Sondang Grace Sirait Photos AFp
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Born into and growing up surrounded by Islamic boarding schools, Ramadhan fasting came naturally for Ienas Tsuroiya, daughter of revered Nahdlatul Ulama leader Ahmad Mustofa Bisri. “For me personally, fasting is more than a religious obligation. It’s also useful for training and containing myself. I found that it’s a lot harder to control my emotions than to control hunger,” says Ienas, who’s married to liberal Muslim scholar Ulil Abshar Abdalla. With that, she set off to introduce fasting early enough for her two young sons, Ben and Billy. The boys’ education continued, even after the family relocated to the US, where her husband was pursuing his graduate studies. At that time, her son Ben, now 17, was in second grade and his younger brother Billy, now 14, in kindergarten. “It was relatively easier to do in Indonesia. While living in Boston, we’d have to have a talk with my sons’ teachers ahead of Ramadhan to explain about their changing routines for the month. The school was very accommodating. When it was lunchtime, for example, they’d let my sons read in the library.” By now, her sons have managed to fast from dawn to dusk. The secret, Ienas says, is in letting them embrace the ritual gradually. “Starting in kindergarten, I urged them to fast to the best of their ability. By primary school, they were able to do a full-day fast. But I did always monitor their conditions. If it looked like they couldn’t hold it anymore, I would let them break the fast or drink water,” she said. For other Muslim parents, the challenges vary when it comes to getting their little ones to observe the ritual known as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. “I found it really hard to get my kids to wake up for sahur [pre-fast meal before dawn]. They’ll end up going to school sleepy. Compared with my daughter, it’s harder for my son to contain his hunger, so I’m always on the look out to distract him,” says Novita Arsianti, a food entrepreneur in South Jakarta.
“But fortunately, they’ve been really good sports,” Novita adds. It helps that she always prepares mouthwatering sweets, such as iced fresh-fruit cocktails, almond pudding and an alltime Indonesian favorite: kolak pisang (banana and sweet potatoes cooked in sweet coconut milk). Psychologists agree that when done the right way, Ramadhan fasting paves the way toward good discipline. “It’s a concrete way of training children when to eat or not eat, what best to eat or drink. It’s all part of educating them to obey rules,” says psychologist Listyo Andini Sugeng. Another way to get children into the festive season is by involving them in Ramadhanrelated activities, says psychologist Ratih Zulhaqqi. “Get their help in preparing the food for iftar, or have them keep a journal about their Ramadhan experience,” she says. For more on what the experts recommend for parents initiating Ramadhan fasting, take a look at the list below. Start slow. Be gradual when introducing the routine. “Adjust the initiation according to a child’s age, gradually and in a fun way without any threat, coercion or even promises of rewards,” advises psychologist Listyo Andini Sugeng. Kick-start the process, if possible. Begin the preparation early even before Ramadhan by cutting back on your children’s consumption of salt and sugar. It also helps to get their minds all ready. Avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids during non-fasting hours to keep them hydrated. Stay active. Maintain light, low-intensity activities during fasting hours. Keep a healthy meal plan. Prepare nutritious meals rich in fiber and with sufficient calories. Make sure to include a good variety of fruits and vegetables, meat and healthy fats. Avoid overindulgence, as it will only lead to indigestion and discomfort.
a la MODE
faith meets fashion SIMPLICITY IS TRENDING WHEN IT COMES TO THE HIJAB, BUT WHAT YOU WEAR STILL SPEAKS VOLUMES WORDS Sondang Grace Sirait
She might have known all along that wearing a hijab makes an obvious statement about her faith, but never did it cross Dianing Miria’s mind to start wearing it until two years ago, when she started delving into the form of Islamic meditation known as tafakkur. The rest has been history. “It was then that I started embracing more of the Islamic faith, and along with that, made commitments to symbolize my faith. One of them was to start wearing the hijab,” says the mother of one. Luckily, it only required a look
into Dianing’s closet and a change in mindset for her to come up with a new look that has been fresh, simple and elegant - the way she’s always defined her fashion style. “I’ve never thought of a hijab as a challenge, but rather as a way to express myself as a Muslim woman. These days I still get to wear whatever I already had in my closet, just by adding a long cardigan or jacket. Mix-and-match outfits work really well for me, especially when paired with the right accessories,” says Dianing, who likes to freshen her looks with brooches and necklaces. Keeping it simple is also what Puteri Hasanah Karunia urges her 134,000 or so followers on Instagram to do. As creative director of S A É Indonesia, a popular local Muslim fashion line, and a brand ambassador for the Muslim fashion store HijUp, Puteri knows more than a thing or two about the industry and its trends. “A fresh look for me is like the saying ‘less is more’. Simple hijab styles with calming colors can tone down an exuberant personality,” shares Puteri, whose fashion
motto is “modesty in simplicity”. To look fresh and stylish, she says, it’s always a good idea to keep a plain hijab. Puteri’s must-have items, which are also available at her online stores, include bestselling plain black or brown trenchcoats, black or white abaya, plaid flannel tops and much more. More fun options come in the forms of pants and long cardigans in stripes or subtle colors. Thanks to a flourishing trend in simple hijabs, advocates of conservative looks are finding an ever-growing audience. Gone are the days of complicated patterns, colors and styles, replaced by earth tones and monochromes. “Indonesian women are now moving past complicated hijabs with over-the-top accessories,” observes fashion designer Ria Miranda. More than a mere fashion statement, simplicity reflects a genuine Islamic dress
code, according to Bandung-based designer Suri Kasturi, whose modest, shariah-based hijabs are making a wave among local Muslim women. “Looking fresh in a hijab still has to abide by certain rules. That’s what a lot of women out there still don’t get. Think light, subtle colors and stay away from revealing and hip-hugging clothing,” Suri advises.
And now, some hijab fashion and style tips: Start by defining your style. What you wear speaks volumes about your personality. Think of it as a way of expressing yourself and the person you want the world to know. Look to Pinterest or Instagram for ideas, but remember, keep your style uniquely you. Get to know your body type. That long tunic top just looks amazing on that fashion blogger, but somehow it just doesn’t quite look as flattering on you. This is exactly the point: It’s important to first know your body type to know how to dress it right. According to hautehijab.com, maxi or shift dresses work best for rectangle shapes, while apple shapes should focus more on minimizing the waist. Pear shapes look best in empire waists and free flowing skirts. Hourglass shapes should go for long flowy tops, A-line dresses or boyfriend blazers. Always match your hijab to your outfit. Whether your outfits are solid or printed, a solid hijab always looks best. Play it up with accessories to add texture and dimension. Last but not least, keep it simple. “Stick to soft colors, lightweight fabric, and a combination of simple and modern looks,” advises designer Ria Miranda.
JPlus June 21, 2015
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Ria Miranda
Agnes Budhisurya
Sleek and Sophisticated
Agnes Budhisurya
GALeries Lafayette's trunk show is OFFERING LOOKS FOR THE HOLY MONTH THAT GO BEYOND THE traditional WORDS Banyubening Prieta PHOTOS Wendra Ajistyatama and Galeries Lafayette
G
aleries Lafayette Jakarta brought its “Fascinating Ramadhan” trunk show back for a second year on June 23 and 24, giving talented designers a chance to present collections combining the sleek and the simple – along with some Middle Eastern touches – to offer women new looks for the fasting season and Lebaran.
Alleira Batik
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DAY ONE The first day of the trunk show got underway with Dian Pelangi, Agnes Budhisurya, Alleira by Manda Rahardjo and Ria Miranda, whose collections all offered exquisitely detailed designs. Dian Pelangi presented pieces with her signature tie-dye technique, offering abaya in muted rainbow tones, along with matching chiffon and bold-washed touches that created a serene atmosphere.
Dian Pelangi
coverSTORY Next was Agnes Budhisurya, whose sensual, all-white loose-fitting pieces boasted a dash of embroidery, as well as hand-painted kaftan, made using a canting technique and brush to illustrate peacock motifs and batik patterns, among other designs. Ria Miranda presented clean-cut, modest pieces in chiffon and satin in pastel colors with floral and triangular motifs, while Alleira by Manda Rahardjo focused on solid blacks, reds and purples - with dashes of orange and maroon and incorporating looks that featured Manado weave motifs. DAY TWO On the second day, fashionistas were greeted with the MiddleEastern inspired designs of Ina Thomas, Khanaan and Mel Ahyar. Inspired by Scheherazade and the story of One Thousand and One Nights, Ina Thomas introduced her bold 10-piece “Black Royalty” collection, featuring powerful allblack pieces infused with golden embroidery and completed with pearls and Swarovski crystal accents. In contrast, Khanaan referred to her collection at the trunk show as Gulzar, which means “garden of flowers” in Farsi. The self-taught fashion talent offered a novel twist, incorporating floral embroidery onto pieces featuring a pastel palette, including long flowing skirts that evoked a feminine air. Finally, contemporary couturier Mel Ahyar ushered in pieces that offered a totally different concept from her collection of last year, proving that fashion for Ramadhan is not always synonymous with the kaftan. Inspired by the arrival of the Holy Month in spring this year, Mel Ahyar crafted designs that combined an ethereal mix of understated bright colors with ravishing women’s turbans. Rich in crystal detail, the pieces incorporated edgy-cut jackets with embroidered floral accents around the shoulders. INSPIRATION Galeries Lafayete is also offering a carefully curated collection of works from the small-and-medium enterprise community, presenting pieces from the South Jakarta branch of the Indonesian Businesswomen Community’s (IWAPI) Ramadhan collection, as well as “Songket
Ria Miranda
Dian Pelangi
INspiration comes from scheherazade, 'one thousand and one nights' and gardens of flowers
Mel Ahyar
Palembang” from the Dasha Collection. “We are proud to always to always support and promote Indonesian designers, and hopefully will give positive impacts on society,” PR and Sales Director of PT Panen Lestari Internusa Arnolda Ratnawati said in a statement.
Agnes Budhisurya
Khanaan
Khanaan
Mel Ahyar
Ina Thomas
Diana Geovanie & Windy Hartranto
JPlus June 21, 2015
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wanderlust
Persian
excursion IRAN OFFERS THE TRAVELER A GLIMPSE OF ANTIQUITY – AS WELL AS A STUDY IN CONTRASTS. WORDS AND PICTURES Dominik Hofstetter
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wanderlust
M
y short journey began on a remarkably hot day in Tehran last fall. I planned a cultural and historical trip through the heart of the legendary land called Persia – which began with a nervewracking two-hour flight to Shiraz. Thankfully, the skilled pilots managed to land the visibly timeworn Soviet-made passenger plane in one piece. I arrived in the so-called city of nightingales and wine at around midnight on a Thursday. Although Friday is Islam’s “Sunday”, with many businesses closed, I was bent on sightseeing. I headed out to the tombs of the great poets Hafez and Saadi, who influenced European literature and philosophy with their verses. The city legitimately lives up to its nickname as the “City of Poets”. One finds young street performers reciting at almost every corner, while elderly men can be seen pouring over huge works of literature. After a tour of the city center, which was speckled with traditional bathhouses, gardens and mosques, I realized a childhood dream: To visit Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid empire. A journey by car that stretched out over 95 kilometers from Shiraz carried me to a barren landscape that was full of historically significant ruins. The thought that these remnants, once peerless palaces, have survived the passage of empires and the harsh desert climate for more than 2,500 years, boggles the mind. While you’re visiting Persepolis, make sure to see two sites that are nearby: the Tomb of Cyrus, at the Pasargadae World Heritage Site, and Naqsh-e-Rostam, the ancient necropolis, or city of the dead, built by the Achaemenid kings. The necropolis is home to several reliefs made by the Sassanid kings who also ruled here. Most famous is the Triumph of Shapur I, commemorating that monarch’s victory over the Roman emperors. My next stop was Yazd. The city, located in a valley sandwiched between the Dasht-e Kavir and the Kavir-e Lut deserts, is known as the driest metropolis in Iran. Yazd is also famed as a capital of the Zoroastrian faith, an ancient monotheistic religion that predates the arrival of Islam in Iran.
The city features the captivating Towers of Silence - hilltop structures where in days past, the Zoroastrians would leave the bodies of the dead to scavenging vultures as part of a funeral ritual. The practice has been ended for decades. The city’s facades are defined by unique architectural accents, which include windcatchers and wells to retain water, as well as adobe houses, whose mud and clay walls help residents to beat the heat. The highlight of my stay in Yazd was a 150-kilometer road trip to an ancient Zoroastrian mountain shrine, Chek Chek. The desert road to the shrine seemed to stretch away endlessly, leading my mind into the unknown. Eventually, I made my way to Isfahan. In times past, it was one of the largest cities in the world and also Persia’s capital. In the present day, Isfahan has maintained much of its magnificence, particularly its grand mosques, bazaars and it famous town square. The city’s historic setting, its respect for tradition and physical beauty were a fitting end to my journey.
A few things to keep in mind When to go The best time to visit Iran is in the fall, since temperatures drop from summer highs to pleasantly refreshing cools. Best behavior Iran is an Islamic country and has its own customs by which travelers should abide to ensure a pleasant stay. Religious guidelines and common etiquette require that men and women adhere to a modest dress code. Alcohol is forbidden and – just as in Indonesia – people should refrain from using their left hands to pass or accept items to others. Money matters Iran is effectively a cash society for tourists. Foreign credit cards do not work in local ATMs, so be sure to bring along plenty of currency to exchange as you plan your trip. Custom confusion During your travels, you may come across the curious tradition of taarof, better known as the Persian code of civility. The best example of this is when a shopkeeper insists that a customer not pay. In this case, customers must refuse to leave without paying. This social exchange, understood by Iranians, might at first seem odd to the visitor, but be sure to respect it and don’t misinterpret this act of “generosity”. Must eats Try the delectable kebab kubideh with saffron basmati rice for dinner, to be topped off by faloodeh for desert. This dish, often served with lime juice, combines vermicelli noodles with a semi-frozen syrup.
JPlus June 21, 2015
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tasteBUD
Agua fresca Words & Photos Theodora Hurustiati
When you’re fasting it’s important to keep yourself hydrated and drink plenty of water when you can, from the time you break the fast until your morning sahur meal. I understand that plain water can be boring, so this agua fresca might lure you more. Agua fresca, which means fresh water in Spanish, is a fruit-based drink that’s popular in Mexico and Central America. It’s often sold by street vendors in big glass jars and served in eateries throughout the region. The key to flavorful agua fresca is using ripe and sweet fruit. Choose whatever fruit you fancy, so long as it has a soft pulp. In my opinion, melons are the best thirst quenchers, as they’re naturally rich in water. Here are two aguas frescas to get you started, but go ahead and experiment with your own flavor combos!
Watermelon, rose and chia seeds
1 kg seedless watermelon 1 lemon 10-15 organic rose petals 1 teaspoon rose water 2 tablespoons barley malt syrup or honey 1 heap teaspoon chia or basil seeds 1 glass of cold water • Slice half of lemon into 3-mm rounds and juice the other half. • Cut watermelon into small cubes. Place in a blender along with lemon juice, malt syrup and rose petals. • Pour in water and pulse at high speed until smooth. Strain through a fine sieve to discard the pulp. • Transfer into a glass jug. Insert lemon slices and chia seeds. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to cool. • Serve cold with few ice cubes and garnish with small triangles of watermelon.
Melon, orange and basil 1 kg cantaloupe or honeydew melon 1 orange 2 tablespoons barley malt syrup or honey A few Greek or Italian basil leaves 2 glasses of cold water • Cut melon in quarters. Peel and deseed. Cut the flesh into small cubes. • Place in a blender. Add orange juice, malt syrup and basil leaves. • Pour in water and pulse at high speed until smooth. • Strain through a fine sieve to discard the pulp. • Transfer into a glass jug and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to cool. • Serve cold with few ice cubes and garnish with basil leaves.
Healthy notes • Barley malt syrup has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar, meaning it releases energy slowly to keep you feeling fueled longer. • Chia are seeds from the salvia hispanica plant native to Mexico and Guatemala. They’re rich in healthy Omega-3 acids and are good sources of fiber and protein. Eat them dry (sprinkled over some salad or fruit) or “wet” (added into drinks or puddings). When soaked in liquid, chia seeds absorb up to 10 times their weight and they’ll be covered with a gelatinous membrane.
Jakarta-born chef Theodora Hurustiati, a 12-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.
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from fast to FEAST
WORDS Andry Togarma
Rather than rushing home, why not try breaking your fast with a meal shared with friends and family at some of the city’s favorite Middle Eastern restaurants? The cuisine on offer matches the spirit of the season while offering a touch of the exotic. For those who need an introduction, Middle Eastern food is famous for its savory meat dishes, delicately roasted with herbs and spices. Portions are typically humungous - perfect for sharing with friends or for filling your belly after fasting for more than 12 hours. Although you’ll sample similar tastes as you travel from restaurant to restaurant, Middle Eastern cuisine is surprisingly diverse. There are more than six varieties, based on region of
origin – and each has a distinct taste or specialty. Yemeni cuisine, for example, features several different – and delicious - breads that are served with almost every dish, Lebanese cooking is famous for its sauces while Turkish restaurants are known for their unique take on coffee and sweets. The differences are also apparent it comes to shawarma, or slow-grilled meats wrapped in pita bread. One place might feature a version with a more savory sauce, while another spices its meats differently. Why not try them all? Here are some our suggestions for places to break the fast, Middle Eastern style, in Jakarta. Enjoy.
Al Jazeerah
Jl. Raden Saleh No. 58, Cikini, Jakarta. Telp. 021 391 4444/314 6108 Located near the Taman Ismail Marzuki arts complex, this Yemeni-style restaurant is famous among local residents. A specialty of the house is mandi laham, or mutton with rice – the dish that made Yemen famous. The restaurant can seat groups both large and small, although advance bookings are recommended for fast-breaking meals. While the decor isn’t exactly authentic, you still feel like you’re dining in the Middle East. If you can’t find a seat, try the restaurant’s other branch, Sentral Al Jazeerah, in Matraman.
at your LEISURE Al-Tahrir
Plaza Festival, Lower Ground Jl. HR Rasuna Said Kav C-22, Kuningan, Jakarta. Telp. 021 526 3187 Despite specializing in Egyptian cuisine, Al-Tahrir serves dishes from other culinary traditions in the Middle East - as well as food from Indonesia and pasta. So if you’re still not convinced about Middle Eastern food, this is a great place to start. Compared to the other restaurants on this list, Al-Tahrir isn’t that big. However, the restaurant offers a relaxed environment on its terrace. As for the bill, prices are quite affordable, as the restaurant caters to a younger crowd. Make sure you try out some of the dishes from the “Tahrir square corner” on the menu to get a flavor of Egyptian cuisine. One notable option is molokheyyah, an okra-like soup that is considered the Egyptian national dish.
Turkuaz
Jl. Gunawarman No. 32, Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta. Telp. 021 7279 5846/7279 585 After four years, Turkuaz has established itself as one of the best and most authentic Turkish restaurants in Jakarta. Featuring modern yet elegant decor, Turkuaz feels more like an art gallery than a restaurant but in the end, it offers a unique atmosphere with excellent food. Turkuaz is famous for its signature lamb shank dishes, with original recipes based on those from the chef’s home village. Vegetarian options are also available. After your meal, don’t forget to try some Turkish coffee with your dessert. Or take a short walk to the Turkuaz Baklava House, right next door.
Al Nafoura Lebanese Restaurant
Le Méridien Jakarta Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, Kav 18 – 20, Jakarta. Telp. 021 251 3131 Located in the Le Meridien Jakarta hotel, Al Nafoura offers a spacious and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a fast-breaking dinner during Ramadhan. A rotating spit roasting shawarma in the restaurant’s open kitchen will set you salivating. As for a signature dish, make sure to try Chef Ahmad Jamil’s Lebanese-style haruf ouzi, or braised lamb shanks served with oriental rice, assorted nuts and yoghurt sauce.
Abunawas
Jl. Kemang Utara No.110, Jakarta Telp. 021 7179 4691 This restaurant offers a smorgasboard of cuisine from throughout the Middle East. For a main course, for example, you can order several different types of mandi (meat cooked in a tandoori oven served with rice), as well as biryani rice with lamb, chicken or fish. Umm ali (bread pudding), which originates from Egypt, is actually one of Abunawas’ best desserts. Abunawas in Kemang is an off-shoot of the original restaurant, located on Jl. Matraman.
JPlus June 21, 2015
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trendDIAL
Double take German optics expert Leica returns with an above-standard digital camera boasting progressive technology for more nuanced images. The Leica Q boasts a high-end look with powerful smarts under the hood: a 24-megapixel full-frame sensor, the brand new Maestro II image processor, and a fixed (non-zoom) 28mm f/1.7 Summilux lens. Striking color quality is achieved through the large sensor and bright lens without the need for hauling around interchangeable lenses.
what's your
White-hot heat Transmute summer’s heat and floral bounty into your fragrance with a scent that promises “hot days and hotter nights.” The fruity floral Very Sexy Now Summer perfume by Victoria’s Secret wafts notes of gardenia petals, quince and coconut orchid for an infinitely timeless scent. Mist on the Spray Lation for a refreshing after-sun, skin-soothing treat. Also available in eau de parfum and fragrance mist.
pleasure
Looking for something to tickle your fancy?
Courting victory Football fever has arrived as Adidas and Real Madrid unveil the new official player uniforms for the 2015-2016 season. Designed with the ethos “only perfect counts,” the sports get-up features a symbolic color palette of white with silvery gray. White connotes the notion of each new season as a blank canvas and endless potential. Meanwhile, the collar sports the club’s logo and is emblazoned with the words “Hala Madrid y nada más” (“Madrid and nothing but”) taken from the club’s official song. The u-neck is combined with rolledup sleeves for a classy touch.
Retro aficionado Rising American supermodel Gigi Hadid is the arresting face of Max Mara’s Fall/Winter 2015 campaign, sporting a carelessly styled, Marilyn Monroe-like bob, pale lips and nude haute couture. Fur coats, chunky knitwear and pencil skirts in earthy neutrals proliferate, presenting a chic yet retro look. Mid-length quilted pencil skirts and 1950s-inspired outerwear dominate the collection, which debuted at Milan Fashion Week.
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New on the block Popular Singaporean shoe brand Metaphor touches down in Indonesia, boasting a smorgasbord of colors in cow and calf leather for its fall Spring/Summer 2015 collection. The footpampering walking shoes feature a feminine, dressy look, soft skins and a unique pillow concept for soles that float on air. Shop the collection at AEON Mall in BSD City. +Kindra Cooper