Digital asean life march april 2014 by Kabari

#02 | MAR - APR 2014

AN life WWW.asean-life.Com

influential Women in southeast asia human rights aDvoCates southeast asian relationships:

a Colorful Journey Women anD girls’ health Challenges southeast asian honeymoon Destinations Dato’ Dr. Wazir Jahan Begum Karim:

Champion of Women’s rights anD genDer equality

mae flores A FILIPINA AMERICAN ENTREPRENEUR IN INDIA

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CONTENTS 08

ASEAN Important Events

Factoids: Lao PDR: Serene, Unspoilt, Friendly and Warm

Southeast Asian Relationships: A Colorful Journey

Quotable Quotes: Influential Women In Southeast Asia As Human Rights Advocates

Aung San Suu Kyi: A Story of Compassion, Bravery and Forgiveness

Indonesian Culture: Intertwined with Age-old Traditions, Religion, and Art

Language Lesson: Bahasa Indonesia

Woman and Girls’ Health Challenges in Southeast Asia

Education: The Need To Give Emphasis on Girls’ Education in the ASEAN Region

Cover Story: Mae Flores A Filipina American Entrepreneur In India

Entertainment: The Beauty of Filipina Women Shines Through

Honeymoon Travel: A How-to Guide for a Safe and Healthy Trip

Profile: Dato’ Dr. Wazir Jahan Begum Karim Champion of Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

A FAvORITE DESTINATION FOR SUMMER HONEyMOONS

A FILIPINA AMERICAN ENTREPRENEUR IN INDIA

Southeast Asia: A Favorite Destination for Summer Honeymoons

Non-Profits Advocating the Care of Children or Seniors

Fashion: Move Over West, Here Comes the Southeast

Recipe: Nasi Goreng Indonesia

Recipe: Cambodian Fish Amok

Recipe: Singaporean Chili Crab

Recipe: Thai Beef Salad

Walis Tingting in Malapatan, Sarangani: Hard Work Really Pays Off

WWW.asean-life.Com

mar-apr 2014

FROM THE EDITOR CREDITS

When I first joined the ASEAN Life magazine’s editorial team, I had already expected to write and edit while riding trains, planes, and

Publisher: John Oei

automobiles. Let’s not forget the beaches of Bantayan Island in the

Managing Directors: Sakri Dewi Tirtowidjojo Lisa Tungka

a chaise lounge by the shore line but I neglected to have someone

province of Cebu, Philippines, too. I had brought out my laptop to take a souvenir photo which would have been appropriately labelled, “Life is a Beach!”

Editor in Chief Lorna L. Dietz

I am writing from the Philippines, right in heart of the ASEAN region.

Artistic Development yohanes Agus Rustanto Nanang Putra

Dawn is about to break while it is early afternoon in California. My Skype phone line connects me to my office. Facebook Chat serves as my reminder checklist. It is Trello.com that continues to help me check, double-check, and

Video Development Johannes Danniel

triple-check editorial submissions as well as maintain a “life line” to our Artistic Development team

Contributors Agnes C. dela Cruz Rom Kenneth Sales Bernadine Racoma Mark dela Cerna Noemi L. Dado Maan Bellosillo Rhodora Montemayor-Palinar Rad Zarei Michelle San Miguel Lorna Lardizabal Paul Spinrad Dr. Taruna Ikrar, MD, MS, PhD

media colleague, Robert Henry, had introduced me to its efficient ways a couple of years ago. Sadly,

Chief Operating Officer: Indriati Oei HOW TO REACH US ASEAN Life & Kabari Los Angeles: 731 N. Beach Blvd, La Habra, CA 90631 (213) 550-3888 San Francisco: 1788 19th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 213-7323 Info@Asean-Life.com www.Asean-Life.com

MAR-APR 2014

members, Agus Rustanto in Indonesia and Nanang Putra in California. I mention Trello because a Robert recently passed away so Trello will always remind me of him. There were some unexpected hiccups in the production of this second issue. Overseas travel might sound like a romantic adventure yet it is fraught with health challenges such as water retention from a higher-sodium diet or a dry cough that doesn’t seem to go away. A word of advice to neophyte and seasoned travelers from non-tropical climates: Just before your overseas travel, take a 10-minute sauna to activate those unused sweat glands. In this second issue, ASEAN Life takes a look at Southeast Asian romance and its nuances as well as some stories about ASEAN women and girls. There are other regular features such as an event calendar and regional recipes. The cover story about “Mae Flores: A Filipina American Entrepreneur in India” is as intercultural and intergenerational as it gets. The story is provocative because it deliberately confronts cultural and gender issues from a first-person point of view. As ASEAN Life sinks its teeth deeply into “meatier” topics that affect the lives of ASEANs worldwide, let’s remember that this lifestyle magazine may have been inspired by the organization, Association of Southeast Asian Nations, yet our common bond is the acronym, ASEAN, which binds the 10 countries that have an amazing future waiting for them. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Lorna L. Dietz Editor-in-Chief

www.AseAn-life.coM

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INTENTION

The magazine’s name is intriguing: ASEAN Life

t’s all about the lifestyles, triumphs,

dication among the communities of

achievements, and celebrations of 10

SouthEast Asian ancestry. It’s about de-

SouthEast Asian communities: Brunei

veloping an ASEAN consciousness.

Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia,

We aim to develop an ASEAN con-

Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines,

sciousness in everyone through campaigns

Singapore, Thailand, and vietnam.

that develop a sense of pride about the

#02 | MAR - APR 2014

AN life WWW.ASEAN-LIFE.COM

INFLUENTIAL WOMEN IN SOUTHEAST ASIA HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCATES SOUTHEAST ASIAN RELATIONSHIPS:

A COLORFUL JOURNEY WOMEN AND GIRLS’ HEALTH CHALLENGES SOUTHEAST ASIAN HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS DATO’ DR. WAZIR JAHAN BEGUM KARIM:

CHAMPION OF WOMEN’S RIGHTS AND GENDER EQUALITY

MAE FLORES

Simply stated: ASEAN Life is the

beauty of everything SouthEast Asian.

Information and Intergeneration Bridge for

Whether it’s about adventure trips to

communities of SouthEast Asian ancestry.

our motherlands, fashion trends, culi-

In the United States and around the

nary explorations, cultural programs,

world, people of SouthEast Asian ancestry

shared celebrations, or the pride of our

have their own lifestyle: Some of the old

achievements — as a bi-monthly magazine,

country, some of their adopted country,

we want to hear our intergenerational

with lots of influences from their family

experiences, conversations, and insights.

values and their immediate environment,

It’s not only about the wise elders we

especially media. We support our “insider”

feature but also about the next generation

communities through in-language and in-

of children, nieces, and nephews. For

culture tri-media and digital media. We

instance, we hear the neophytes as well

encourage the symbiotic relationships with

as the experts in business, professionals

the “outsiders,” a.k.a. “Mainstream Ame-

or entrepreneurs. The fusion artists and

PHOTOgRAPHER CREDiTS:

rica.” They get to know us and participate

designers also have a voice, whether it is

Alice garcia

in our diverse, “mixed-up-like-apple-pie-

Pan-Asian, Euro-Asian or Asian American.

www.alicegarciaphotography.wordpress.com

and-jackfruit” lifestyles and values.

achieve these intentions, goals, and

nities is a prime directive. When we

objectives, our SouthEast Asian an-

showcase the value and heritage of

cestry will continue to thrive. An

SouthEast Asian ancestry to Mainstream

intergenerational community advocate

America, ASEAN Life delivers a powerful

with 40-plus years’ experience wrote us

message.

recently, predicting ASEAN Life’s future:

How do we create interest? Through

“Therefore, successions of new generation

our unconditional, generous support of

after generation of community advocates

each other.

for Asian heritage will continue to thrive

a strong vehicle that raises awareness,

and to replicate itself as generation ‘bridge builders,’ reborn each time.” v

motivates involvement, and instills de6

mar-apr 2014

ON THE COVER: Mae Flores, the Chief Operating Officer of GiLUXE, LLC, an information technology and services company, is a young ASEAN American professional who takes us on a candid journey of discovery to India. She says, “I believe my ability to adapt and adjust is purely Filipino. I can go anywhere, get thrown into any situation, whether entertainment, with investors in a board room, with Indian staff and executives (who do not take females seriously, by the way), and I can not only adjust, but I can influence. And this ability I have deep inside is purely Filipino.”

When our vibrant 10 communities

Creating interest about our commu-

ASEAN Life’s intention is to become

A FILIPINA AMERICAN ENTREPRENEUR IN INDIA

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asean important events BRUNEI

PHILIPPINES 01-02/EURO RACECAR NASCAR CHAMPIONSHIP (Clark Field, Pampanga) 02-04/Boling-Boling Festival (Catanauan, Quezon) 02/Paraw Regatta (Iloilo) 05/Ash Wednesday 15/Sandugo Festival (Bohol) 24-31/Via Crusis (Cebu City) 25/Feast of the Annunciation 28/Turumba (Pakil, Laguna), Ang Pagtaltal sa Guimaras (Jordan, Guimaras) 29/EARTH HOUR

MYANMAR 02/Peasants’ Day 11-16/Pindaya Cave Festival (Pindaya, Shan State) 14-15/Kakku Festival (Taunggyi, Shan State) 15/Tabaung, Dha Paung Full Moon, Shwedagon Pagoda Festival (Yangon) 27/Armed Forces Day

INDONESIA 31/Balinese Day of Silence (Hari Raya Nyepi)

CAMBODIA 08/InternationalWomen’s Day

SINGAPORE 05-06/SINGAPORE ROCK FESTIVAL 2014 (Fort Canning Park)

LAO PDR

MALAYSIA

08/International Women’s Day 22/Day of the People’s Party

01 - 08/Le Tour de Langkawi 04/Anniversary of the Installation of Sultan Terengganu (only in Terengganu) 08-09/Port Dickson 4x4 International Sand Challenge 12-19/2nd FAI Asian Paragliding Accuracy Championship (FAPAC) 13-15/FUTURE MUSIC FESTIVAL ASIA 2014 16-12Apr/1 Malaysia GP Sale 2014 19-23/7th Bali Spirit Festival 27-30/Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, Malaysia International Shoe Festival 28-30/Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix

THAILAND 07-09/Bun Phawet Fair 13/National Elephant Day 18/National Muay Thai Day 20/March Equinox

asean important events BRUNEI

MYANMAR 13-16/Thingyan (Water Festival) 13/Popa Ceremony (Mount Popa) 17/Myanmar New Year

mar-apr 2014

INDONESIA 18/Wafat Isa Al-Masih (Jumat Agung)

SINGAPORE

CAMBODIA 13/Cambodian New Year 14-16/Chaul Chnam Thmey (New Year Celebration

10-12/Chu Dong Tu Festival 31-09Apr/Phu Giay Festival

april

PHILIPPINES 01-07/Pak’kaat Kallo (Magpet, Cotabato) 07-14/Manaoag Pilgrimages (Pangasinan) 07-11/Panaad Festival (Negros Province) 07/ST. JOHN BAPTIST DE LA SALLE FEAST DAY 09/Araw ng Kagitingan 13-16/Pandan Festival (Mapandan, Pangasinan) 14-20/Moriones Festival (Boac, Magpoc, Catanduanes) 16/Cutud Lenten Rites (Cutud, Pampanga) 17/Maundy Thursday 18/Good Friday 19/ Holy Saturday 22/Earth Day 27/Feast of the Divine Mercy

VIETNAM

18/Good Friday

WWW.asean-life.Com

LAO PDR 14-16/Pi Mai Lao (Luang Prabang)

THAILAND 06/Chakri Day 11-19/Phuket Bike Week 21-27/Phuket Pride Festiva 13-15/Songkran

MALAYSIA 05-14/Royal Belum World Drums Festival (Ipoh, Perak) 09-17/Archipelago Drums Festival (Dataran, MBMB) 12-13/Penang World Music Festival 15/Declaration of Melaka as Historical City (only in Melaka) 18/Good Friday (only in Sabah and Sarawak) 19/Birthday of the Sultan of Perak (only in Perak) 25-28/Regatta Lepa (Semporna, Sabah) 26-28/Pesta Air Malaysia Water Festival Labuan

VIETNAM 05-06/ Thay Pagoda Festival 09/Gio to Hung Vuong Day 12-20/ Hue Festival Ngay 30/Thong Nhat (Vietnam Victory Day)

FACTOIDS

Hmongfrau in laos

Lao PDR:

grand golden Stupa with Blue Sky before Sunset in Vientiane, laos

Serene, Unspoilt, Friendly and Warm

PEOPlE

There is a French saying that the ao PDR, or Laos, if you want a not-

November, the season turns rainy. Laos,

vietnamese plant rice while Cambodians

so-formal name, is a landlocked

home to 6.25 million people, is subdivided

watch the rice grow. However, the Lao listen

country that borders vietnam,

into 16 provinces and one prefecture that

to the rice grow. That is how visitors view the

Thailand, China, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

divides a total area of 236,800 square

Lao people, laid-back and enjoying a slower

Lao PDR is a multi-ethnic country where the

kilometers or 91,428.991 square miles. Most

pace of life. In Swahili, you say “hakuna

majority of inhabitants are devout Buddhists.

of the population live in the capital city of

matata,” in Lao, they say “baw pen nyang.”

The dominant language is Lao and French, with

vientiane and the district of Savannakhet.

Both phrases mean “no problem” and that

a single party Marxist-Leninist government. While still not in that stage to be truly an

is how they approach life. HiSTORy

Lao PDR has 49 recognized ethnic

international destination, the country has its

Laos has an ancient history and a

communities. Broadly they are categorized as

own charm to attract intrepid visitors in search

tumultuous past, characterized by a

the Lao Loum from the lowlands, comprising

of something different from the typical tourist

succession of royal rulers, both benevolent

70% of the population, the Lao Theung from

routes. Laos was the Best Tourist Destination

and ruthless ones, invasions from neighboring

the upland and the Lao Soung or the highland

in the World for 2013. That’s a big accolade

countries, civil strife including rebellions and

Lao. The latter includes the H’mong people,

for a still-developing country.

military uprisings. Late in the 19th century, it

the most well-known among all the ethnic

became a Protectorate of French Indochina.

groups in the country.

gEOgRAPHy AND POPUlATiON

For a brief period during the Second World

More than one million international

For a landlocked country, and the only

War, Laos came under Japanese rule before

tourists visited Lao PDR in 2010, compared

one in such a position in Southeast Asia,

the country declared itself independent

to 80,000 in 1990. Its ancient Asian charm

Laos still gets enough water to nourish its

on October 2, 1945. However, the French

is its biggest attraction, as well as its colonial

farms. Forested mountains comprise most of

only granted them independence as a

architecture, Buddhist culture, ancient

Laos. It is a tropical country and also in the

constitutional monarchy on October 22,

temples, cultural sites and its cuisine. It is

path of the monsoon belt. The dry season

1953. The Lao People’s Revolutionary Party is

known for its weaving, traditional handicraft,

is from December until April. From May to

the single ruling party in Lao PDR since 1972.

silk and mulberry tea.v

MAR-APR 2014

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MAR-APR 2014

SOUTHEAST ASIAN RELATIONSHIPS

Thailand, traditional courting stages can still be witnessed as well as in a few provinces in the Philippines. During the first stages of courtship, the couple is expected to go out with friends. They get to know each other’s sets of friends and establish a good relationship with them as well. The moment the girl agrees to going out on private dates such as exclusive dinners or movie dates, it is a sign for the man to take things to the next level. This is when relationships start to form. THE ENgAgEMENT STAgE In most Southeast Asian relationships, an engagement can last for quite some time. This is essential for the couple to know each ©Odua Images- Fotolia

other better and see if they really are meant

Traditional java wedding couple husband and wife hold each other

for each other. The most common reason is that a grand wedding has to be prepared. In the Philippines, pamamanhikan or “asking for the parents’ permission to marry” should be done first before all wedding arrangements are set. The same thing is done in Malaysia. The traditional engagement ceremony is called pertunangan. Both families are expected to bring gifts and talk about the wedding plans. In Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, choosing the right date and time for the wedding is done carefully. Some

Establishing a romantic relationship in Southeast Asian countries takes longer compared

consult astrologers for auspicious dates.

to Western countries. Generally, several processes are involved before a couple could start a

Most believe that nine is a lucky date, and

serious relationship. Culture and tradition have much to do with this. Traditionally, Southeast

some schedule their wedding at 9:09 in the

Asian women are conservative. Thus, they tend to be reserved and do not enter into a

morning to ensure luck.

relationship without getting to really know the man.

Engagements can be arranged by parents as well --- instead of the couples.

THE COURTSHiP STAgE

This happens when the marriage is fixed or

In many countries, the term “courting” is not even familiar at all. This is the stage in which

arranged. Nowadays, this is only practiced by

the guy starts to win the heart of a girl in different ways. In the olden times, men were expected

fewer families such as the Muslim families

to do certain favors for women so the latter would say “yes” and start a relationship. Favors

in Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei, and in

might include doing household chores, lifting heavy items, or cooking dishes. In the Cambodian

Singapore. They do this to preserve the

countryside, traditional courting still exists. However, more modern approaches in courting

family’s culture, values, and religious beliefs.

(or “courtship”) as influenced by Western culture can be seen in urban areas. In Northern

In almost all Southeast Asian countries,

MAR-APR 2014

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the dowry is a very important factor that will determine whether the parents will give their daughter’s hand in marriage to the guy or not. In most cases, the dowry comes in the form of cash or special gifts for the girl’s family. Buddhist families are also known for making donations to the monks. If both sides agree to the amount, the wedding will definitely push through. THE WEDDiNg Southeast Asian wedding traditions and rituals are among the most colorful in the © stationidea- Fotolia

world. From the location of the wedding down to the wedding costumes, all Southeast Asian weddings are a joy to watch. For the Buddhists, especially in Singapore, Thailand and Myanmar, wedding

golden tray flower use for Thai wedding ceremony

ceremonies are traditionally done at home. Today, it can be in any chosen place such as hotels, gardens or restaurants. For Muslim weddings such as in Indonesia and Malaysia, the wedding ritual usually takes place in a house. For Filipino Catholics, it is the practice

In almost all Southeast Asian countries, the dowry is a very important factor that will determine whether the parents will give their daughter’s hand in marriage to the guy or not.

to be married in a church. Wedding costumes are also expected to

in a process called sanuk. This is where he has

each of the couple’s families. In some Muslim

be colorful. Malays wear the traditional Baju

to pass certain challenges, mostly teasing

families in Southern Philippines, it can even

Melayu and everyone attending the ceremony

from male relatives or family and guests

go on for months especially for those who

is expected to do the same. Burmese are

asking him to hurdle certain challenges

come from rich families. Filipinos and Thais

also expected to wear their traditional attire

before he can actually reach the bride. In the

perform a ritual of freeing birds during the

adorned with jewelry and other ornaments.

Philippines, it is the other way around. The

wedding reception. Gifts are also expected to

In Cambodia, Myanmar and the Philippines,

bride is the one who has to do a procession

pour in. Traditional dances can also be seen

there is usually a wedding motif in which

while the groom waits inside the church.

as well as other performances. Even if there

everyone wears a dress from the same color

It is also important for them not to meet

are differences, one thing is certain: there will

palette.

before the actual wedding ceremony since

be an almost-endless supply of drinks, food,

it is deemed as bad luck.

and celebrations!

Just like in Thailand, Cambodian bridegrooms are the ones entering the

Wedding receptions are almost the same

Although it might seem tough to be in a

wedding venue from outside the doorway. In

for all Southeast Asian countries. They can

relationship when you are in Southeast Asia

Cambodia, the tradition is to bring the bride’s

either do it at home or in a hotel or restaurant.

due to culture and tradition, in the end, it is

scarf. This is an old Khmer tradition wherein

The only difference is that receptions can go

worth it. The fun and excitement of finally

the guy seems to come from afar in search

on for days. In Cambodia it can last for two

settling down with the person of your dreams

of his true love. In Thailand, the bridegroom’s

or three days. In Malaysia, it is expected that

cannot be compared anywhere else in the

procession is a bit funny. He enters the house

there will be two different receptions, one for

world.

www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

“I will repeat again that females are the symbols of nonviolence…Another thing I would say is that a female is more compromising. A female can talk with anyone easily.”

wikipedia.org

iNflUENTiAl WOMEN iN SOUTHEAST ASiA AS HUMAN RigHTS ADVOCATES

wikipedia.org

qUOTABLE qUOTES

“The value systems of those with access to power and of those far removed from such access cannot be the same. The viewpoint of the privileged is unlike that of the underprivileged.”

- yingluk Shinawatra, the first female and concurrent Thai Prime Minister,

- Human rights advocate and 1991

answering the people critical of her stand

Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu

omen in Southeast Asia

on femininity. She is still inexperienced

Kyi of Myanmar (Burma).

have a more favorable

in politics but her sincerity to serve the

position compared to East

people has placed her in the position where

or South Asia. A daughter in the ASEAN

she is right now.

region is not a burden to the family financially due to the practice of bride dowries and maternal lines. Southeast Asian women are able to gain vocational skills and they have easier access to higher education. Post-graduate training for women, except for Laos and Cambodia, is higher. There are more female graduates

“I want to encourage our people, to educate our people to have the courage to understand and fight for their rights.”

in the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and Brunei, as well as in Indonesia and vietnam.

- Former Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri, affirming how she wanted her people to be aware of their rights.

MAR-APR 2014

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wikipedia.org

their kinship is almost equal in paternal and

- Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, a brave, courageous, highly-intelligent and outspoken senator from the Philippines. She is a staunch advocate of good governance. She is witty, famous for her funny “pickup lines” yet possesses a very sharp tongue. The above quote is just one of her witty remarks directed to her enemies. She is on her third term of office as a senator and is a judge of the International Criminal Court.

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wikipedia.org

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“There’s nothing wrong with my brain, contrary to the impression of my enemies.”

“I have mobilized women to work for women and by women. The global network of women gains a lot of support from the international community. We work to help women and our society to be free of poverty… my heart is always with Cambodian women. I could see women being trafficked in sex industry; women being discriminated; women with HIV/AIDS. They are living in a difficult situation… Women are precious gems… think women have the ability to hold such a high position. But they just don’t have the opportunity. Some are even more efficient than men.” - Mu Sochua, a human rights advocate from Cambodia, during a May 21, 2007 interview. She is the founder of Khemara, a women’s organization in Cambodia.

These five women of strength from Southeast Asia have been using their intellect and courage for people to realize their rights and fight for it. v

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MAR-APR 2014

PROFILE

Aung San Suu Kyi

A Story of Compassion, Bravery and Forgiveness

Freedom and democracy are dreams you never give up. Aung San Suu Kyi

he leadership legacies of Aung San Suu Kyi have not just inspired the Burmese, but also

the rest of the world. Having won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 and several honorary awards, Suu Kyi proved that her leadership principles are worth emulating. Despite being under house arrest, she continued fighting for democracy in Myanmar. Suu Kyi grew up in the world of politics. Her father, General Aung San, is Burma’s independence hero. She did not see her father’s struggles because he died when she was just two years old. She continued the principles her father fought for as Burma struggled for genuine freedom. She worked at the United Nations in New york and traveled to different countries. For a while, she stayed in the UK to raise her children --- but her heart remained in Myanmar. The success of her opposition party in 1990 could have instituted the awaited change, but prior to their party’s victory, she was detained. Suu Kyi was imprisoned for 21 years and was released in 2010. Although Myanmar still has a long way to go in pushing es.wikipedia.org

for democratic reforms, Daw Aung San Suu

MAR-APR 2014

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Kyi leads fearlessly and confidently, a worthy trait for an intergenerational population of Burmese citizens to follow.

asiasociety.org

lEADERSHiP PRiNCiPlES WORTH

has spoken in several rallies and

her life. The opposite applies for Suu

EMUlATiNg

campaigned for justice. However, she

Kyi. She said, “In some ways, I don’t

is known to be quick in apologizing

think they did anything to me. They

when necessary.

placed me under house arrest, but that

Willingness to sacrifice to fight for

gave me time to read.” In her heart,

what is right. 21 years of political

love and forgiveness still reigns.

▶

Don’t just say what you want to say or do what you want to do. As a leader, Aung San Suu Kyi believes that

▶

people follow every word a leader

imprisonment is no joke. Many

says. Leaders have to be very careful.

politicians claiming to be “just” won’t

She learned the value of meditation

take this kind of sacrifice to take a

and took insight meditation classes

stand. For Suu Kyi, despite being kept

at Oxford University. She is now more

away from her family, she learned to

patient because of this technique.

deal with inherent “consequences” of

She believes meditation helps in

her commitment and dedication. She

withstanding physical and mental

knows that this kind of sacrifice will

pressure.

bear fruits.

Abhor hypocrisy but acknowledge shortcomings. Burmese people have

▶

The value of love and forgiveness. For someone who was imprisoned for a

always felt her sincerity. She keeps

long time fighting for justice, one can

on searching for deeper truths. She

assume that anger and hatred ruled

In Myanmar, Suu Kyi seems to have a “rock star” status. People cheer and listen to her whenever she is around. This is the type of leader who has the genuine love and support of her followers.

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MAR-APR 2014

CULTURE

and East and Central Java is called “gamelan.” Popular during political campaigns is “dangdut.” “Keroncong” is Portugueseinspired music while West Timor has its “sasando.” Bamboo instruments are used in West Java to produce “angklung” and “degung” music. DANCE AND DRAMA Most of the dances in Indonesia are based on mythology, with traditional dances

Colourful Batik

Indonesian Culture: intertwined with age-old traditions, religion, and art

usually depicting scenes from Mahabharata and Ramayana, which are of Indian origin. Traditional dances from Java and Bali include “legong,” “kecak” or the Ramayana Monkey Chant, the “barong” and the trance dance called “kuda kepang” or “jatilan.” Indonesia is famous for its shadow puppet theatre called “wayang kulit” that also showcases events culled from mythology. The folk theater of West here are about 17,508 islands

which still governs the rites of passage and

Sumatra’s Minangkabau tribe performs the

comprising Indonesia, which is

social life of Indonesians, is also instrumental

Randai during festivals and ceremonies. This

home to 238 million people. The

in providing equal rights to women in the

form of wayang kulit incorporates many art

country.

forms, including silat martial art, drama,

country is scientifically known to have started its beginnings as a people around 1.5 million years ago. Indonesia’s rich culture is a product

dance, singing and music. While wayang lANgUAgE AND REligiON

kulit showcases leather puppets, “wayang

of its interactions and trade with western and

Indonesia has more than 700 living

golek” uses wooden puppets, although the

eastern nations. Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese,

languages. But the whole country is united

stories and legends they depict are the same.

Arabic, and Malay greatly influenced the

by one single, official language - Bahasa

culture of modern Indonesia.

Indonesia. On the other hand, Javanese is

BATiK

Indonesia’s national motto is Bhinneka

spoken by the majority of Indonesians as

Indonesia is very well known for its batik

Tunggal Ika, which means “Unity in

their mother tongue, although it does not

cloth, which uses a manual wax-resist dyeing

Diversity.” It is a concept that identifies the

have an official status. The country tolerates

technique to create beautiful designs. The

nation. A shared identity was developed.

religious pluralism. Islam is practiced by

melted wax is either stamped onto the cloth

Where religious pluralism is encouraged,

86% of Indonesians, although the country

with a copper stamp or hand-drawn with

ethnic diversity is well-entrenched and

also recognizes Confucianism, Catholicism,

a hot wax pencil. Thailand and Malaysia

one national language binds its people.

Protestantism, Buddhism and Hinduism.

also produce batik cloth but the color

Throughout the country, there are three basic guiding principles: gotong royong or

combinations and designs from Indonesia are liTERATURE AND MUSiC

quite unique and spectacular. Hand-woven

mutual assistance leads to musyawarah or

Ethnic Malays are fond of interactive,

cloths with silver and gold threads as well

consultations, which enables one to arrive

impromptu verbal poetry compositions

as intricately-designed cottons and silks are

at mufakat or a consensus. The Adat law,

known as “pantun.” Traditional music in Bali

produced in Bali and other provinces.

MAR-APR 2014

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LANGUAGE LESSON

President Soeharto officially overhauling the spelling system, which changed CH to KH, TJ to C, DJ to J, NJ to Ny, J to y and SJ to Sy. If you intend to live in Indonesia, it is imperative that you learn the language although it is possible to manage living in the city, at least in Jakarta, without learning the national language. But then again you

BAHASA INDONESIA uniting more than 237 million indonesians

are depriving yourself of the chance to integrate into mainstream society or deal with other Indonesians who do not speak your language. Moreover, you will miss out on fully experiencing Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and improving your personal relationships with the locals. For most people,

here is some misconception

them also speaking Javanese and Sudanese.

Bahasa Indonesia is an easy language to learn

when it comes to Bahasa Indo-

Bahasa Indonesia is likewise spoken in

since the words are pronounced in the same

nesia. Indonesia is the name

Singapore, Brunei, and Malaysia.

way that they are written. The grammar is

of the country, ergo many people assume

The Latin alphabet was introduced when

simple and verbs are not conjugated. It uses

that “Bahasa” is the name of the language.

Indonesia was still a Dutch colony, which

the same English alphabet and unlike other

Actually, Bahasa Indonesia simply translates

affected the Old (Indonesian) script called

Asian languages, there are no pictograph

to “language of Indonesia.” Bahasa Indonesia

“ejaan lama.” When the independence

and tonal differences to make your language

is spoken by close to 30 million people as

movement gripped the nation, Bahasa

lessons a difficult undertaking.

their first language while there are more

Indonesia was adopted as the name of the

Once you have gained confidence as an

than 140 million who consider it as a second

standardized Indonesian language in the

in-language speaker, you will not be limited to

language. Indonesia itself is linguistically

1930s instead of Bahasa Melayu or Malay

just saying “selamat pagi,” “selamat malam,”

diverse, with about 700 indigenous languages

Language. Some members of the older

terima kasih,” “apa kabar” “selamat datang”

spoken in different parts of the archipelago.

generation still speak Dutch. English, as the

or “permisi.” And before you scratch your

However, Indonesia, which is home to 237

first foreign language of choice, is used for

head, these words mean good morning,

million, is united by just one language, Bahasa

study, tourism, and business. Through the

good night, thank you, how are you / hello,

Indonesia, the official language of the country.

years some changes were implemented,

welcome and excuse me.

Indonesians are multilingual, with most of

including changing OE to U, and former

ESSENTIAL BASIC PHRASES IN INDONESIA ya

yes

Tidak

Selamat datang

Welcome

Senang bertemu anda

Pleased to meet you

Selamat tinggal

Goodbye

Terima kasih

Thank you www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

Nama saya

My name is

Anda bisa bahasa Inggris?

Do you speak English?

Maaf, saya tidak bisa bahasa Indonesia

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sorry, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t speak Indonesian

Tolong bantu saya

Help me please

Di mana toiletnya?

Where is the toilet?

Hotel

Saya sudah pesan tempat

I have a reservation

Satu kamar

A single room

Dua kamar

A double room

Makan pagi

Breakfast

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MAR-APR 2014

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HEALTH substantially reduced maternal mortality

Women and Girls’ Health Challenges

from 1990 to 2008 although the results

in Southeast Asia

are not consistent. Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei have made significant progress in reducing maternal mortality. The trend, though, is not sustained in other countries, including Cambodia, Myanmar, Indonesia and the Philippines, according to the report. Most of the reasons for the high incidence include postpartum hemorrhage, hypertensive diseases and unsafe abortion. The latest data from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific indicate that the Millennium © DragonImages- Fotolia

Development Goals on maternal mortality

Throat’s examination

and reproductive health is unlikely to be met, although a separate UNDP report states that vietnam has already achieved it and TimorLeste, Cambodia and Laos are on target. HiV/AiDS

he health of women and children

UNPROTECTED SEx AND lACK Of ACCESS

is recognized as one of the

TO REPRODUCTiVE HEAlTH CARE

While the prevalence of HIv/AIDS in Southeast Asia is low, a different situation

priority areas of the Southeast

Majority of the women and girls in

is faced by each country. Between 2001

Asian regional action plan as it seeks to

Southeast Asia still do not have access to

and 2011, there has been a 25% decline in

ensure healthy lifestyles among populations

reproductive health care. Unprotected sex

the prevalence of the disease in Thailand,

in member countries by 2020. That’s why

is very rampant, with teen pregnancy and

Myanmar and Cambodia. The reverse is

there have been major efforts to identify key

unplanned pregnancy getting to be major

evident in the Philippines and Indonesia as

women’s and girls’ health challenges that

problems. Sexually-active children are getting

well as in Bangladesh where there has been a

need to be urgently addressed.

younger and the absence of institutional

25% increase. Transmission of the disease is

efforts on sex education and reproductive

mainly through paid and unpaid unprotected

health care services lead to complicated

sex, injecting drug use, sex between men and

Despite the modernity in Southeast

health problems for women and girls. Based

mother to child transmission.

Asia, there are still many areas that do not

on a number of studies, the Philippines and

receive adequate health services. Some

Thailand top the list of countries in Southeast

form of medical aid is usually encountered

Asia with the highest teen pregnancy figures.

during foreign medical missions. Health

Unfortunately, government efforts haven’t

care facilities are inadequate, and medical

been effective in curbing the numbers.

These health challenges are definitely not impossible to overcome but requires a joint effort from all concerned agencies, from government institutions to the private sector, nonprofits, and grassroots initiatives. v

iNSUffiCiENT HEAlTH CARE SERViCES

supplies and equipment are lacking as well. In some cases, modern health care services

MATERNAl MORTAliTy

are shunned because people still believe in

Myanmar’s deputy director for public

traditional medicine or because there is total

health, Thein Thein Htay, recently reported

lack of modern healthcare services.

that countries in Southeast Asia have www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

漏 wong sze fei- Fotolia

EDUCATION

Myanmar girl using digital tablet pc

here are several movements

men should be given the right to education

will know how to take care of their

calling for gender equality.

since they are the ones who provide for the

babies or of themselves during

However, it is sad to note that

family. Women who live in the countryside

pregnancy. They will also know

not all parts of the world experience it. There

are deemed as house helpers and must only

how to avoid contacting sexually-

are still certain aspects in which women lag

serve their husband and children.

transmitted diseases (STDs) and run

behind men. One of these aspects is a basic right: education.

Poverty is a major stumbling block. In the countryside of Laos and Cambodia,

the risk of passing it to their children. 路

Women need higher wages. There

Southeast Asian countries have worked

people rely on farming for livelihood. Most

are a lot of women who are now

hard to promote equality in education

of them can barely make ends meet. A lot of

breadwinners. They can become

between men and women. Countries like

families do not have access to electricity and

excellent providers if they have a job

the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia are

drinking water. It is, therefore, not surprising

that pays well to sustain their needs.

among the countries with the closest men to

when many people from developed countries

This can only happen if they are well-

women literacy ratio. Sadly, the same thing

conclude that in some Southeast countries,

educated.

cannot be said for Laos and Cambodia. Those

education is not a priority for women.

路

Sustain access to quality education.

from the countryside and ethnic groups

In other regions in Southeast Asia,

According to studies, women

do not have access to education at all. In

women are not treated with a great deal of

are most likely to spend their

vietnam, there is a significant difference

respect compared to men. It goes back again

family budget on education above

between the numbers of girls having access

to the notion that women are inferior to men.

everything else. This will assure that

to higher education with that of boys. Even

This might sound like an ancient issue, but it

children of the next generations will

in a more economically stable country like

still exists in some places.

prioritize education.

Thailand, there are also a lot of women that do not pursue higher education, especially

WHy SHOUlD WOMEN BE EDUCATED?

those in far flung provinces.

Hopefully, the Southeast Asian countries

The inequality in access to education

that lag behind in terms of equality in

must come to an end. Women deserve to be

education will be able to make the necessary

REASONS fOR UNEqUAl ACCESS TO

educated as much as men do. Here are some

changes in the near future. v

EDUCATiON

of the reasons why:

In many regions in Southeast Asian countries, a popular belief still exists that only 22

mar-apr 2014

路

lower Children and Maternal Mortality Rates. If educated, women

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COvER STORy

MAE FLORES A FILIPINA AMERICAN ENTREPRENEUR IN INDIA

dance, theater, and music in the Philippines since she was three years old. When she immigrated to Chicago in her “tween” years, her mother and aunt continued to nurture her dance training. By the time she moved to Los Angeles to develop her acting skills, Mae Flores knew that working in an intergenerational and intercultural atmosphere was important to her. THEN CAME iNDiA. Working with her “partner-in-crime,” Marco Bartoli (the CEO), Mae Flores, the Chief Operations Officer, co-founded “GiLUXE, a technology company that specializes in the development of early-stage

“I just know that there needs to be more of us weaving our way through this American culture, making a difference in our own ways.”

technology projects ranging from robotics to artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer animation, computer-generated motion picture special effects, Internet, and video games. GiLUXE’s approach combines

n 2010, Mae Flores, a young American

culture, making a difference in our own ways.

internally-developed technology products

of Filipino ancestry, spoke before a

I think we get so consumed in just surviving

with outside high-potential, early-stage

diverse audience at a bi-annual

because as a people, we are surely survivors

ventures.”

empowerment conference convened by the

--- and always have been. But through that,

Marco and Mae believed that a three-

National Federation of Filipino American

we forget that there’s so much more to us

month incubation period for their Indian

Associations (NaFFAA) in Burlingame,

as a people. I really hope that through the

employees was a realistic plan. 18 months

California. “Building the next generation of

arts and entertainment, although a small

later, the co-founders agreed that as

community advocates in an intergenerational

vehicle, I can help motivate, empower and

entrepreneurs, they had to learn how to

setting” was the conference’s theme. Mae, an

inspire not only children and youth, but even

adjust to the culture, the people, how people

aspiring actress in Hollywood, was already

single mothers in their 40s starting over,

adapted to them and their work habits,

well-known among her peers, from Hampton

widows, “lolos,” “lolas” and undocumented

India’s accepted business practices as well

Roads to Los Angeles, for breaking the glass

expatriates who feel that there isn’t much

as their employees’ ways of learning.

ceiling in performing arts.

left for them in a country they once believed

“GiLUXE’s brave new world embraces

Mae’s reflections during this period

was one full of possibilities. Our people need

design-driven innovation,” Mae explained.

helped determine her calling. She wrote: “I

to believe again. I know I can do my part in

“In India and most outsourcing companies

just know that there needs to be more of

helping accomplish this.”

world-wide, we have discovered that there

us weaving our way through this American 24

MAR-APR 2014

The quezon City-born Mae had studied

www.AseAn-life.coM

is a significant lack of creativity and imagery.

yes, the innovation is usually there. you can hire programmers with specific skills for any project. They’re a dime a dozen. What you cannot always find are employees who can incorporate beautiful imagery and creativity to their left-brained programming work. And that is what we worked ‘tooth and nail’ to train our young employees to do from the beginning --- which is why this initial phase turned out longer than usual.” In their start-up company, Mae Flores soon found out that each day was not only © alice garcia

different from the previous day but that as a COO, she was in charge of employee morale, human resources, accounting, and location hunting aside from being the in-

“it’s hard to teach them unless i get down on my hands and knees and physically show them, which i did.

house interior designer and strategist. The co-founders discovered a set-up

wound emotions, and who allowed them

shakes you to the core. Their willingness

similar to a Silicon valley campus, a gated

to speak their minds, she pointed out, “It’s

to be enslaved in whatever way we chose

community that suited their entrepreneurial

hard to teach them unless I get down on

can shock anyone. It’s been quite a road but

needs. Enticing the best young talents in India

my hands and knees and physically show

we got them there. Hallelujah! We taught

to join their company, GiLUXE included free

them, which I did. That’s quite literally what

them to be independent thinkers! One of our

living facilities on-campus. The employees

we had to do with EvERyTHING --- show

employees told us during a review that if he

lived in a three-bedroom villa with three

them everything from beginning to end. The

were to leave the company now, he knows

bathrooms, a full kitchen, a mini-game room,

right way to clean the office, how to treat

that the greatest gift we ever gave him was

lounge, and free wifi --- with a free gym and

co-workers, the right way to submit work,

not the salary or the free housing --- that it is

clubhouse benefits in the premises. GiLUXE

accountability, responsibility, independent

the gift of vocalizing his thoughts and ideas.”

also hired a local housekeeper who cleaned

thinking, and others.”

The start-up phase that the co-founders

house, did the employees’ laundry as well as

and employees went through made them

cook the employees’ favorite regional dishes

MARCO AND MAE WORKED HARD

a stronger, connected family that learned

since they were recruited from all over India.

ON OTHER iNTANgiBlES SUCH AS

how to value each other. The result is a

PARADigMS AND VAlUES.

high productivity level, “the most elite work

Aside from getting home and entertainment amenities, the employees’

“We literally had to teach them all over

commute to the office was literally a block

again, back to pre-school,” Mae continued.

Mae Flores, who is now back in hometown

away.

“We wanted them to unlearn whatever

USA to work on GiLUXE’s global operations,

they had initially imagined working for an

summarized what she had learned in India:

international company would be like.”

“I feel so strong! India, the land of inequality,

The partners always arrived at their leased offices before the employees clocked

possible.”

in. Mae also started each work day by warmly

Some of the greatest gifts she learned

caste systems and violence toward women

greeting the staff, making them feel welcome

from being an American citizen, Mae

has made me STRONGER. So, thank you,

and comfortable. Even if one of GiLUXE’s

candidly disclosed, were about equality,

India! Thank you for giving me the roar in my

employees referred to her as the “glue”

freedom of choice --- freedom, in general. She

already-obvious growl as a woman!”

that kept them together, who smoothened

said, “When you are faced with employees

out all the kinks, who loosened up tightly-

who initially were willing to do anything, it www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

www.facebook.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Megan young, Miss World 2013

herever they may be, Filipinos claim that their love for singing contests

and beauty pageants is deeply embedded

Aside from extensive preparations and trainings, Filipina beauty queens succeeded because they never gave up on their dreams.

in their culture. The popularity of beauty pageants in the Philippines is comparable to soccer in Brazil or haute couture in France.

beauty queens sealed the fact that the

Bicolana of Indian lineage, made it to the top

From major national competitions down to

Philippines is indeed a pageant powerhouse.

15. Although the common conclusion was

small barangay contests, there is no doubt

However, the road to what is considered as

that she garnered a fourth runner-up finish

that Filipinos totally revere them.

the “Golden years” of the Philippines in the

due to her “major major” mistake during the

Beauty queens are considered celebrities

world of pageantry has never been that easy.

final question and answer portion, it was

in the Philippines. From pageant preparation

From 2000 until 2009, no Filipina managed

still considered a huge achievement. It was

to actual international competitions, these

to make it as a semifinalist in Miss Universe.

because of this victory that Filipinas were

queens receive unwavering support. In fact,

Since its inception until 2012, the Miss

noticed in international pageants again.

this type of support made Ariella Arida a

World crown had also been very elusive to

After Raj’s victory, the Philippines managed

semifinalist in Miss Universe 2013 after

the Philippines.

to continue its successful streak in Miss

garnering the highest online votes. Diane Necio also won Miss Internet Popularity in Miss International 2011 because of the overwhelming support of the Filipinos. The recent achievements of Filipina

MAR-APR 2014

Universe leading to a “four-peat” in the top 5. THE gAME CHANgERS

Megan young, a Filipina American,

In 2010, the “drought” that the

finally gave the Philippines its first-ever Miss

Philippines has been experiencing in Miss

World crown in 2013. It was a long journey

Universe finally ended. Maria venus Raj, a

for the Philippines, with a first runner-up

www.AseAn-life.coM

as its highest placement in history through

they can find the perfect match.

Evangeline Pascual. Over the years, the Miss

Aces and queens headed by Jonas

World franchise has passed through different

Gaffud (recently featured in BBC News),

organizations, but the blue crown was never

is considered as the home of successful

won. When Cory quirino took over the Miss

beauty queens. Janine Tugonon, venus

World franchise in 2011, the Philippines,

Raj and Megan young all hailed from this

coincidentally, finally turned its luck around

camp. Bea Rose Santiago, Precious Lara

with Gwen Ruais, a Filipino-French model,

quigaman, and Karla Paula Henry, winners

bagging the first runner-up title.

of Miss International 2013 and 2005, and

Big 4 refers to the most exclusive and grandest pageants, which includes Miss

Miss Earth 2008, respectively, came from the Kagandahang Flores camp.

Universe, Miss World, Miss International THE “DON’T SAy DiE!” ATTiTUDE

one or two placements in the Big 4 is already

Aside from extensive preparations and

an achievement. The Philippines, on the other

trainings, Filipina beauty queens succeeded

hand, placed in all four pageants from 2011

because they never gave up on their

to 2013.

dreams. venus Raj, for instance, showed

www.facebook.com

and Miss Earth. For most countries, having

her determination to succeed, rising from filiPiNA BEAUTy qUEENS

poverty and emerging into a true beauty

iN THE MAKiNg

queen. She was dethroned at first due to

Beauty pageants are taken seriously in the

citizenship issues, but she got her title back

Philippines. Those who aspire to be beauty

and made it big in Miss Universe. Angelee

queens invest many years of their young

delos Reyes, Miss Philippines Earth 2013, also

looking at a brighter year ahead. In fact, the

lives preparing for a national pageant. Some

had the same attitude. She was denied entry

newly-presented Binibining Pilipinas 2014

join several local and regional competitions

as a contestant in Binibining Pilipinas twice

candidates have strong chances at getting

before deciding to join a national pageant.

before she became an official candidate in

the crown. Candidates who tried it out for

These competitions are considered stepping

2012. However, she continued trying it out

the third time, MJ Lastimosa and Diana

stones for them to gain more confidence

at another national pageant and went home

Arevalo, came back more prepared than ever.

when competing in a bigger stage.

with the crown. Janine Tugonon also joined

Filipina-German Pia Wurtzbach, last year’s

Bea Rose Santiago, Miss international 2013

The Philippines has a beauty camp to

Binibining Pilipinas twice where she only

first runner-up, is also in perfect shape to

train future beauty queens. These camps

landed as first runner-up in 2011, but took

finally get a crown. Even in minor pageants,

are composed of beauty professionals who

the Miss Universe Philippines crown in 2012.

Filipinas have already begun turning heads. A

train aspirants in all aspects of pageantry.

Even Mutya Datul, the first Asian winner of

back-to-back victory was just brought home

The team is composed of makeup artists,

Miss Supranational, became an inspiration

by Rizzini Alexis Gomez and Angeli Dione

wardrobe stylists, catwalk trainers, speech

after being bashed by many due to her poor

Gomez, both from Cebu, as Miss Tourism

specialists, fitness trainers, and physicians.

communication skills. During her pageant,

International 2012 and 2013, respectively.

They groom the candidates for several

she has proven that she can still win with

As long as Filipinas continue to strive for

months before letting them compete in a

her beauty, a touching story and a lovely,

excellence in pageantry, we can expect more

national pageant. They go through a lot of

engaging personality.

crowns in the years to come. To quote Miss

physical fitness training and beauty-related

Universe Philippines 2011 Shamcey Supsup, THE fUTURE Of PHiliPPiNE PAgEANTRy

“Beauty is not definite, we define it.” Indeed,

weaknesses. Beauty camps also experiment

With the recent success of the Philippines

Filipina women have defined the standards of

on the right styling for each candidate until

in beauty pageants, we are definitely

courses so they can improve on their

beauty with their recent victories.

www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

TRAvEL TIPS

Couples kayaking

y enc g r e photoc em bers of pers opies num docum onal ents

the travel warnings

dress code travel and for special medical insuran places ce

orts p s s pa visas and

learn t langua he ge

lanning your honeymoon this summer? Lucky you! Southeast

take time to change official documents, women should book their

Asia is a wonderful region to spend your honeymoon in, but

tickets in their maiden name to avoid hassles at the airport. Be sure

in whatever country you are headed to, consider your safety

that you and your spouse are covered by international travel and

so that you can have a truly enjoyable, memorable and worry-free

medical insurance. Make photocopies of your itinerary, your passports, tickets,

honeymoon. What comes first? your passports and visas. your passports

traveler’s checks and other personal documents --- and leave them

should be valid for at least six months. visas are mandatory in some

with someone at home. you should also have one set of photocopies

countries. While you are busy with your wedding preparations, you

with you, which you can carry around as you explore the city and

should also be working on your travel requirements. If you are from

keep the original in the hotel safe. Always keep your bags with you.

the United States, do check the travel warnings as well as the entry

Carry the phone number, name and address of your hotel at all times

and exit requirements for the country you intend to visit. Since it will

and know the emergency numbers for medical or police assistance.

MAR-APR 2014

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floating fishing village in Halong Bay

Whether you are going to a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia such as Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines or vietnam or in some other places that are “off the beaten path,” --- tranquil and less frequented by tourists --- you should keep in mind that petty thieves come with the territory. It is still advisable not to bring and wear expensive jewelry. If you have some valuables you want to wear for a special evening, then keep them locked in the hotel safe. Separate your credit cards, carry loose bills and keep the higher denominations in a belt bag or hidden pouch. Have coins ready for minor purchases. Be aware of dress codes for most places in Southeast Asia. Remember that their culture is different and some are still conservative when it comes to clothing. Do not bring too many clothes. Good quality clothes are quite cheap in Southeast Asia and the choices are numerous and varied. Remember, too, that there are countries where public displays of affection are frowned upon. What’s a honeymoon without plenty of pictures? Most smartphones have good built-in cameras. If you want something better, it is best to invest in an inexpensive digital camera to record your memorable moments instead of bringing expensive cameras and always worrying that these might fall into the wrong hands. Learn some useful words and phrases beforehand so you can get immediate assistance. Plan to have fun in Southeast Asia and sample local cuisine. Enjoy every moment of togetherness as newlyweds. Follow these tips and you will have a wonderful, exciting and stress-free honeymoon! v www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

PROFILE

Dato’ Dr. Wazir Jahan Begum Karim: Champion of Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

ew people are as smart, compassionate, driven, and adventurous --- all at the same time --- as Dr. Wazir Jahan Karim.

In Southeast Asia, where poverty and inequality are rampant, Dr. Karim boldly, decisively and enthusiastically, rolled up her sleeves and waded waist-deep into the situation to fight for the rights of the under-represented, underprivileged, and under-appreciated communities of developing Southeast Asian nations. The battle for equality has been fought for centuries, as early as the 1700s. Past victories include appointment of women in top clergy positions among the Shakers (1788), balanced property rights in marriage (1882), and women suffrage in the U.S. (1920). Today, women share more or less the same privileges as men, but mostly in highly modernized areas in the West or in Western-influenced countries. In the Eastern hemisphere, particularly in underdeveloped Asian cities, women are viewed as they were when these civilizations first began.

Dato’ Dr. Wazir Jahan Begum Karim is the Executive Chairman of intersocietal and Scientific (iNAS), an agency committed to gender, conservation, and heritage issues. Dato’ is a title conferred by the State government of Malaysia.

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She literally “rolled up her sleeves and waded waist-deep”, for she lived their way of life

www.disted.edu.my

Preserving Muslim culinary heritage

Fortunately, Wazir Jahan Karim is wellequipped when it comes to battling not

women’s leadership, and midwifery, among

glimpse of their everyday lives. She carries

several other things.

the title of Dato’ --- having been conferred in

only gender issues but also poverty. Wazir

An accomplished woman, Dr. Karim

Jahan, a graduate of the London School

received several notable accolades including

of Economics and Political Science, is an

the Raymond Firth Prize in 1977, the Rotary

economic anthropologist and a gender

Golden Medal for Most Outstanding

studies proponent. She is currently Executive

Scholar in the Social Sciences in 1999, and

Chairman of Intersocietal and Scientific

Outstanding Woman Academician in Penang

(INAS), an agency committed to gender,

State in 2005. She is also very active as a

conservation, and heritage issues as well

visiting professor, a sought-after speaker,

as the Executive Director of the Academy

and distinguished fellow in several renowned

of Socio-Economic Research and Analysis

universities worldwide, including the British

(ASERA), which promotes social equality in

Academy, University of Oslo, United Nations’

the developing world. She co-founded the

University, University of victoria, and Sophia

Women’s Development Research Centre

University. When she’s not busy teaching

at Universiti Sains Malaysia, and heralded

or researching, she writes and co-authors

Gender Studies in rural Malaysia from 1978

books about minorities and women in

to 2001 at a time when not many thought

Southeast Asia, the absence of equality in

much of it, to improve the understanding

these communities, and striving for their

of, and methodologies related to, poverty,

empowerment while also giving the world a

2007 the order of Darjah Setia Pingat Negeri (Penang).

when not fighting for the rights of women and marginalized societies, she is a businesswoman and connoisseur of Asian heritage crafts

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MAR-APR 2014

Dato’ Dr. Wazir Jahan Begum Karim did

ASERA-led campaign to preserve the Masjid

thumb: she maintains a garden, and has

not earn all these distinctions, awards, and

Melayu Lebuh Acheh land from being turned

successfully grown avocados - not native

knowledge just by going from one university

into an apartment block. Other projects

to her country and very difficult to cultivate.

to another, learning if not teaching. For her,

involved promotion of the Nusantara textile

She has since encouraged people to grow

experience is the best teacher. To collect data

industry, preservation of the Orang Asli

their own avocado trees since the Malaysian

for anthropological research for her books,

arts, and various discourses on the culture,

climate is suitable for it.

she actually lived with an indigenous group

history, and heritage of several aboriginal

in Malaysia, the Ma’ Betisé’, for two years in

communities in Malaysia.

If it weren’t for Wazir Jahan’s work, many Malaysian communities and cultures

the mangrove forests of west Malaysia. She

Seeing such a busy woman, it is tempting

would have become extinct or endangered,

literally “rolled up her sleeves and waded

to ask oneself, “What does she do in her

and there wouldn’t have been as many

waist-deep”, for she lived their way of life,

free time? Does she even have free time?”

advancements in gender equality in Malaysia

eschewing modern comforts, and hunted

you would be surprised. Wazir Jahan, when

as there are now. There probably wouldn’t be

animals for food, worked in the fields, shared

not fighting for the rights of women and

avocados grown locally either.

their daily problems, and studied, through

marginalized societies, is a businesswoman

first-hand experience, gender roles in the

and connoisseur of Asian heritage crafts. To

community and the spiritual relationship

showcase, promote, and protect this tradition

of humans, plants, and animals. She was

of art, Wazir Jahan built the Jawi House

also the first ‘foreign’ woman to have ever

Gallery located in Georgetown, Malaysia. This

lived with them. Her findings were compiled

collection shines a spotlight on thousands of

in a thesis called “Ma’ Betisé’ Concepts of

years’ worth of rich textiles, bamboo crafts,

Living Things,” which studies Ma’ Betisé’

precious metal sculptures and trinkets, and

spirituality, and in a co-authored book

woodcraft from the pre- and post-Islamic

titled “Gendered Fields: Women, Men, and

Malay Peninsula. The Jawi House not only

Ethnography,” which focuses on the gender

provides visitors a taste of Malay art, but

roles and expectations of men and women in

also of cuisine as well. The gallery café serves

the indigenous Carey Island society.

both traditional and modern drinks, snacks,

As a beacon of culture, Dr. Karim actively

and sumptuous entrées. The shop and gallery

advocates conservation of indigenous

is an extension of Wazir Jahan’s passion and

cultures and has participated on several

desire to preserve and promote indigenous

cultural projects, including a successful

Malay culture. At home, she reveals a green

Recent Articles and Chapters by Wazir since 2010 ‘Straits Muslims: Diasporas of the Northern Passage of the Straits of Malacca’, ‘Life of P. Mohammed’ and “Philosophy of the Qur’an’ also available directly from Wazir Jahan or MPH. ‘Feasts of Penang: Muslim Culinary Heritage’ available in all MPH Book Stores in January 2013. 2010 a “The Economic Crisis, Capitalism and Islam: The Making of a New Economic Order?” Globalizations: Special Issue. Globalization and Crisis .Vol. 7 Issue 1 Feb-March, Routledge: London. pp 101-109. 2010b ‘ Saving Tanjong Tokong’, Penang Economic Monthly Dec. Issue 12:10. pp 26-31. 2011 ‘Stratagems and Spoils in US Policy in the Middle East’, Globalizations: Special Forum on the Arab Revolution. Vol.8 No. 5 Oct. pp 601- 608.

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2012a ‘Philanthropy and Trust: Diversities in Civil and Global Approaches to Nationhood in the Straits of Malacca.’ in eds. Abdul Sheriff and Engseng Ho The Indian Ocean: Oceanic Connections and Creation of New Societies. ZIORI and Hurst: London 2012 b Feasts of Penang: Muslim Culinary Heritage, MPH: Kuala Lumpur www.wazirjahan.net; www.aseraint.net; www. civilpoint.net

ASEAN life PAgE Of REfERENCES Factoids: LAO PDR

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laos http://www.laos-guide-999.com/Laos-facts.html http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/laos.htm http://www.worldbank.org/en/country/lao http://www.la.undp.org/content/lao_pdr/en/home/countryinfo/ http://www.laos-guide-999.com/Laos-holidays.html

Aung San Suu Kyi: A Story of Compassion, Bravery and Forgiveness

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/people-places/aung-san-suu-kyi-burmas-revolutionaryleader-17728151/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aung_San_Suu_Kyi http://www.beyondintractability.org/lfg/exemplars/akyi

Indonesian Culture: Intertwined with Age-old Traditions, Religion, and Art http://indonesia.gr/indonesian-culture-arts-and-traditions/ http://www.mapsofworld.com/indonesia/culture.html http://asia.isp.msu.edu/wbwoa/southeast_asia/indonesia/culture.htm http://www.everyculture.com/Ge-It/Indonesia.html

Dato’ Dr. Wazir Jahan Begum Karim: Champion of Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

http://theearlymalaydoctors.blogspot.com/2011/05/prof-datuk-dr-wazir-jahan-karim.html http://wazirjahan.net/straits.php http://wazirjahan.net/profile.php http://www.themalaymailonline.com/print/eat-drink/introducing-jawi-peranakan-cuisineto-penangites...-and-the-rest-of-malaysi http://jawihouse.com/content/display/article/site:jawihouse-param:staff-link:6670

Fashion: Move Over West, Here Comes the Southeast

http://www.inytluxury.com/ http://www.dailylife.com.au/dl-fashion/could-southeast-asia-be-the-next-fashiondestination-20131014-2vic0.html http://luxurysociety.com/articles/2013/10/suzy-menkes-luxury-brands-the-promise-ofsoutheast-asia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Priscilla_Shunmugam http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tex_Saverio http://www.galerieslafayette.co.id/marque/friederich-herman-2/ http://www.inytluxury.com/speakers/biyan-wanaatmadja.aspx http://stylplus.insing.com/feature/singapore-style-kae-hana/id-60613f00 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margarita_Saplala http://wikifashion.com/wiki/Sretsis http://www.sretsis.com/submenus/view/1

Educating Women and Girls of Southeast Asia

http://gccblogs.concernusa.org/2011/08/05/top-5-educate-a-girl/ http://www.wikigender.org/index.php/Educational_Opportunities_for_Girls_in_SouthEast_Asia http://harpswellfoundation.org/news/InternationalEducator.pdf http://laurencebradford.com/education-for-girls-in-southeast-asia/

Women and Girls’ Health Challenges in Southeast Asia

http://www.arrow.org.my/?p=written-statement-for-the-47th-session-of-the-commissionon-population-development http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/indepth/2014-01/31/c_133086783.htm http://www.globaltimes.cn/content/840369.shtml http://unu.edu/publications/articles/health-and-healthcare-systems-in-southeast-asia.html http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/unprotected-sex-on-southeast-asianholidays-contributes-to-rise-in-hiv-cases/story-fnihsrf2-1226677317820 http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-987040 http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/01/31/1285422/news-analysis-developing-asiastill-grapples-high-maternal-mortality http://www.avert.org/hiv-and-aids-asia.htm

Honeymoon Travel: A How-to Guide for a Safe and Healthy Trip

http://www.oncallinternational.com/blog/honeymoon-travel-a-how-to-guide-for-a-safeand-healthy-trip/ http://www.honeymoon-vacation.com/honeymoons/honeymoon-travel-safety.htm http://www.hitours.in/honeymoon/honeymoon-safety-tips.aspx

Southeast Asia: A Favorite Destination for Summer Honeymoons

http://www.selectiveasia.com/asia-honeymoons/weather/march http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/2013/07/12/5-places-to-take-your-honeymoon-insouth-east-asia/ http://www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk/honeymoon/march http://www.philippinetraveldestinations.com/honeymoon-destinations.html

Southeast Asian Relationships: A Colorful Journey

http://www.lonelyasiangirls.com/asian-courtship-customs.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Courtship,_marriage,_and_divorce_in_Cambodia http://www.asiandatingzone.com/filipino-courtship.htm http://www.expat.or.id/info/weddings.html http://www.watdee.com/traditional-thai-wedding.html http://www.everyculture.com/Ja-Ma/Malaysia.html

Bahasa Indonesia: Uniting More than 237 Million Indonesians http://www.indo.com/bali/tips/index.html http://www.expat.or.id/info/bahasa.html http://www.omniglot.com/writing/indonesian.htm

Focus: Nonprofits Advocating the Care of Children or Seniors

https://www.children.org/Philippines http://www.projectpearls.org/ http://www.cosasia.org/ http://www.ti-ratana.org.my/ http://www.centreforseniors.org.sg/ http://www.bananamana.com/sage-the-singapore-action-group-of-elders-o456-en. html http://www.childrenofvietnam.org/

Quotable Quotes: Influential Women in Southeast Asia as Human Rights Advocates

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_of_Southeast_Asian_Nations http://apwld.org/our-work/grounding-the-global-regional-human-rights-mechanisms/ asean-the-womens-caucus/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/yingluck_Shinawatra http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-13723451 http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/y/yingluck_shinawatra.html http://womenshistory.about.com/od/quotes/a/aungsansuukyi.htm http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Aung_San_Suu_Kyi http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megawati_Sukarnoputri http://www.quotesdaddy.com/author/Megawati+Sukarnoputri http://tadonggeniuskuno.wordpress.com/2012/02/09/miriam-defensor-santiago/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mu_Sochua http://www.asiacalling.org/en/special-reports/inspiring-women/431-cambodiawoman-leader-mu-sochua http://asiasociety.org/countries/traditions/women-southeast-asia?page=0,0

The Beauty of Filipina Women Shines Through

http://philippinereporter.com/2009/07/16/beauty-contests-filipino-culture-or-madtradition/ http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2014/01/01/cebuana-wins-miss-tourisminternational-321216 http://adventuresofabeautyqueen.com/2012/12/27/rizzini-alexis-gomez-last-pinaybeauty-queen-to-compete-in-2012/ http://philippinereporter.com/2009/07/16/beauty-contests-filipino-culture-or-madtradition/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miss_World_2013 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines_at_major_beauty_pageants

Recipe: Cambodian Fish Amok

http://www.thecitykitchensf.com/2012/03/cambodian-fish-amok/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amok_(dish) http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/28119/seafood+amok+traditional+cambodian+seaf ood+curry

Recipe: Singaporean Chili Crab

http://www.singaporelocalfavourites.com/2009/09/singapore-chilli-crab-original.html http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/cuisines/aroundtheworldin80dishes/ singaporechilicrabrecipe/recipes/food/views/Chili-Crab-351869 http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2013/02/singaporean-singapore-chili-crabrecipe.html

Recipe: Thai Beef Salad

http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/3216/thai+beef+salad http://rasamalaysia.com/thai-beef-salad-recipe/2/

Recipe: Indonesian Nasi Goreng

http://www.food.com/recipe/indonesian-fried-rice-nasi-goreng-35551 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasi_goreng http://goseasia.about.com/od/indonesianculturepeople/a/nasi_goreng_fried_rice.htm http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/187/nasi+goreng

SOUTHEAST ASIA

for Water Chalet

Summer

Honeymoons

There are plenty of hotels, most of which are built to blend with the look of the old town, using locally-woven fabrics and local dark woods. 34

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ÂŠ cheechew- Fotolia

A Favorite Destination

honeymoon is, for most couples,

--- check out the options in Cambodia, Lao

a once-in-a-lifetime milestone

PDR or vietnam. If you want the best of both

event. That is why there is no

worlds, book your honeymoon in Malaysia,

excuse not to make it such a special occasion.

Thailand, or the Philippines. Southeast Asia

While most honeymooners traditionally

has historical sites and fascinating culture

gravitate to the warm waters of the Caribbean,

as well as fantastic beach resorts. It can be

many couples are exploring Southeast Asia

a long flight if you are from the West but it is

for its perfect weather during the summer

worth the trip.

months of March and April. you enjoy the

If you are getting married in March or

sunshine, top-caliber hotels, fantastic

April, Sabah is a good place to go. Rainfall

nightlife, fabulous sceneries, and endless

is almost non-existent and the country is

opportunities to create memorable moments.

not yet at the peak of its tourist season.

you want a vibrant nightlife? Go to Bali in

you can consider Kota Kinabalu, Sepilok,

Indonesia or jet off to Singapore. If you seek

Selingan and Lankayan Islands, Sipadan and

peace and quiet --- and time for yourselves

Mabul Islands, Danum valley or Kinabalu NP.

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Sarawak also has Batang Ai, Mulu National

Laos is an emerging tourist destination,

or just watch the elephants having their

Park, Damai Beach and Kuching. The average

and has been chosen as the Best Tourism

morning bath. If you are quite adventurous,

temperature is 28 °C (82.4 °F), just right for

Destination in the World for 2013. A

check out the options at Phong Sali and see

soaking up the sun on the beach, exploring

recommended place to check out for your

the vieng Xai caves.

natural sights, and enjoying the peace and

honeymoon is Luang Prabang, where the

Malaysia offers plenty of choices for a

quiet for your private moments.

average temperature is just 29 °C (84.2 °F).

beach honeymoon. you can go to Langkawi

Cambodia has splendid weather across

There are plenty of hotels, most of which are

or Penang. The countryside is peaceful and

March and April. The tourists are just starting

built to blend with the look of the old town,

beautiful, yet there are modern conveniences.

to come and you can have plenty of days by

using locally-woven fabrics and local dark

Take a thrilling cable car ride up to Mount

yourself, exploring the temples in Angkor

woods. North of the city is the Pak Ou Caves

Mat Cincang. Enjoy the Hot Springs or the

or spending quality time at the south coast

where you will find rows and rows of wooden

Beach of Black Sand. How about a boat tour

beaches of Cambodia. The best places to go

Buddha statues. Next door is the elephant

to Tasik Dayang Bunting, the Gua Langsir or

to are in Kampot, Kep and Koh Kong.

camp. you can learn the ways of the mahout

the Gua Cerita?

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Photo by Sidney Snoeck

NON-PROFIT

Project Pearls Volunteers

Nonprofits Advocating

the Care of Children or Seniors

outheast Asia is home to a good

nutrition, education, infrastructure building,

number of nonprofits that provide

abuse prevention, disaster readiness, and the

care and assistance to children

mitigation of risks. The group provides dental

and seniors. Some of them are international

and medical care, life skills and leadership

organizations while some are locally

trainings, as well as educational support.

established nonprofits advocating the care of needy and displaced children and seniors.

PROJECT PEARlS

They may have different focuses but the core

A mother and daughter tandem created

mission is to help, serve the needs, and to

Project PEARLS. It is involved in outreach

uplift the lives of lonely, troubled, neglected

efforts in a dumpsite community called

and abandoned children and elderly people.

Ulingan (charcoal factories) and Helping Land in Tondo, Manila. The organization provides

CHilDREN iNTERNATiONAl

weekly feeding programs, scholarships, and

Children International operates in the

medical missions. Project PEARLS aims to

United States, South America, Mexico,

put an end to poverty by reaching out to the

Philippines and Zambia. It aims to address the

poorest of the poor Filipino children through a

problem of poverty through various programs

variety of outreach programs. PEARLS stands

that center on youth development, health and

for Peace, Education, Aspiration, Respect,

MAR-APR 2014

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There are many nonprofit organizations that seek to help communities, families or individuals in different parts of the Southeast Asian region. Almost all ASEAN countries are recipients of nonprofit support or are beneficiaries of nonprofit advocacies. Some of the biggest and well-established nonprofits in ASEAN countries are featured below.

Love, and Smiles --- six gifts the organization

clinics that provide free medical services to

they eventually created a special counseling

wants to impart to the underprivileged and

residents in underserved areas.

program for the needy seniors as well as their families. They provide help through

disadvantaged children in the Philippines.

acupuncture, counseling, employment,

CENTRE fOR SENiORS C H i l D R E N ’S O Rg A N i z AT i O N O f SOUTHEAST ASiA (COSA)

A voluntary nonprofit organization, the Centre for Seniors, established in 2006,

continuing education, and community service centers.

Created in 2005, COSA facilitates

helps ensure the total well-being of seniors in

community development, empowerment

Singapore. The center particularly develops

and education, and provides shelter to at-

and provides training programs for older

Children of vietnam is a nonprofit

risk young girls in the Hill Tribes of Northern

people to help promote their continuous

humanitarian organization that assists the

Thailand. The non-religious and privately-

employment. It also provides programs for

poverty-stricken and homeless children of

funded organization addresses child

human resource personnel, managers, and

Da Nang. It provides scholarships, vocational

exploitation and human trafficking.

union leaders.

training, after-school tutoring, nutritional

CHilDREN Of ViETNAM

support, agricultural support, modern Ti-RATANA WElfARE SOCiETy Ti-Ratana Welfare Society is the biggest

SiNgAPORE ACTiON gROUP Of ElDERS

medical care, the sponsorship of prosthetic

(SAgE)

devices and wheelchairs for children, and

independent nonprofit organization in Kuala

SAGE is a non-religious and multi-ethnic

Lumpur. It runs three children’s homes for

voluntary welfare organization in Singapore.

more than 250 children, a women’s shelter,

The nonprofit was established in 1991 to be

and two Old Folks’ homes that house around

a sounding board for elderly people who are

50 seniors. The society also operates mobile

troubled or lonely. Their Helpline grew and

housing for destitute youth.

www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

FASHION

Here Comes the Southeast

Move Over West,

Batik fashion by Weim

hen it comes to “top of mind” for a fashion destination, the most popular cities are New york, Paris, and Milan. These iconic cities are considered the world’s foremost fashion hubs. They influence international trends and are centers for design and

production, retailing, and hosting fashion events and fairs. For many years, trends in Asian fashion was always dominated by China and Japan. Fashion

In November 2013, the Luxury Society, together with the International New york Times, held its international conference in Singapore, and focused on Southeast Asia

designers from Southeast Asia are now getting the international scene’s attention. Some of the top designers are from Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. In November 2013, the Luxury Society, together with the International New york Times, held its international conference in Singapore, and focused on Southeast Asia. Suzy Menkes, International Herald Tribune’s fashion editor, believes that Asia is not just a place where low-cost clothing is made, but is also a creative powerhouse --- and that was highlighted in the event. The attention is long overdue. iNDONESiAN DESigNERS Tex Saverio is an Indonesian fashion designer who has already penetrated Paris through the Paris Fashion Week. His works were worn by no less than Hollywood A-listers Jennifer Lawrence and Kim Kardashian, and pop icon Lady Gaga. He is considered as the “Alexander Mcqueen” of Indonesia. Fashion newcomer, Indonesian Friederich Herman, is noted for his “cutting edge” style, mixing urban fashion using various fabrics and sharp, vibrant colors with the right edge and flair for the designs not to be labeled as “uniform.”

MAR-APR 2014

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Biyan Wanaatmadja’s creations are influenced by his passion for tradition and cultural heritage. He loves to use beadwork, intricate detailing, and silk materials carefully crafted into elegant designs. Collections of this talented man are already sold in Hongkong, Paris, Dubai, and Bahrain. SiNgAPORE’S PRiDE Singapore’s Shunmugan and Hana should not be overlooked. Malaysia-born and Singapore-based Priscilla Shunmugan owns Ong Shunmugan. She is known for her modern cheongsam collection, for which she has received recognition in creatively highlighting traditional pieces and transforming them into newer and fresher fashion masterpieces. Kae Hana shows her love for prints when she designs fun and youthful clothes that are easy to wear. She collaborates with local artists or designs her own prints. Her designs focus on the

Republic, but is now working on her own

combination of sweetness with a rebellious

woman’s figure, with clothes that suit women

clothing line characterized by playful designs.

edge. They entered the U.S. market after the

who are always on the move, yet want to

She offers shirts, dresses, and other women’s

Hilton sisters were photographed wearing

make a fashion statement.

wear sold in New york City. Stretsis (“sisters”

the same dress Stretsis created. Today, more

spelled backwards) is composed of sisters

Hollywood celebrities wear their clothing.

CREATiVE MANilA AND THAilAND

Marthina, Kly and Pim. These New york-

NATiVES

trained (Parson’s) siblings are headquartered

Margarita Saplala is Manila-born but

in Thailand. They describe their creations

New york-based. She used to design for

as non-conventional, allowing girls to feel

popular brands Guess, Gap and Banana

the joy of dressing-up. Their designs are a

AN life

www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

RECIPE

indonesian fried rice with vegetables, shrimp

iNgREDiENTS: 3 to 4 cups cooked rice, fluffed and cooled

Nasi Goreng

to room temperature or use leftover rice 2 1/2 tbsp kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)

INDoNESIA

1 tbsp sweet chilli sauce 1 tbsp dark soy sauce 1/4 cup peanut oil or vegetable oil 1 brown onion sliced thinly

Nasi Goreng is considered to be Indonesia’s national dish and literally translates to “fried rice” in Bahasa Indonesia. This tasty dish is stir-fried in oil,

3 cloves garlic, chopped finely

with sweetened soy sauce and other ingredients such as chicken, shrimps and

1 tsp shrimp paste

egg. Other variants use salted dried fish.

1 tsp sambal olek 1/4 cup fried shallots

COOKiNg PROCEDURE:

1 carrot peeled and finely chopped

Cook rice and allow to cool, fluffing it with a fork to separate the grains.

1 chicken breast fillet, chopped

Combine kecap manis, soy sauce and chilli sauce in a bowl and set aside.

300g small prawns, peeled, deveined and

Heat wok over high heat, then add 1 tbsp oil to coat the wok. Make 4 thin

chopped roughly

omelettes with the eggs; roll them up individually and cut across into thin slices.

3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced

Heat remaining oil over high heat. Add onions, garlic, sambal olek, carrot

1/4 small Napa cabbage, shredded finely

and shrimp paste. Stir fry for about a minute, then add the chicken. Stir fry for

4 eggs, lightly beaten

two more minutes, then add the prawns. Stir fry until shrimps turn pink. Add the

3 thinly sliced red chillies, to serve

cold rice, green onions, cabbage and the soy mixture. Stir fry for another 3 to 4

Tsp = teaspoon(s) Tbsp = tablespoon(s) Pcs = pieces 28.4 grams = 1 ounce 40

MAR-APR 2014

minutes and add half the omelette. Place the Nasi Goreng on a serving plate, top with the rest of the sliced omelette and the fried shallots. Place the sliced chillies on the side of the plate. www.AseAn-life.coM

fOR THE CURRy PASTE: 2 tsp chilli paste 1 tsp brown sugar 3 garlic cloves, chopped 1 shallot, chopped 2 pcs Kaffir lime leaves, chopped 3 lemongrass stalks, chopped 1 small piece of galangal, thinly sliced 1 tsp of turmeric powder Salt to season fOR THE fiSH:

Streamed curry fish in banana leaf cup isolated

Cambodian Fish Amok CAMBoDIA

350 grams or 12 ounces skinless white fish (mahi mahi, halibut) 1 cup coconut milk 1/2 tsp shrimp paste 1 tbsp fish sauce 1 tbsp oil 1 tbsp white sugar 1 cup spinach leaves 1 egg Salt to taste

The Fish Amok is the national dish of Cambodia, and is traditionally referred to as “Khmer” food. Traditionally, the dish is cooked by steaming the fish in banana leaf cups for 15 minutes, along with the other ingredients. PROCEDURE: Using a mortar and pestle, pound the garlic, shallots, Kaffir lime leaves, galangal and the lemongrass until a paste is formed. Add the remaining ingredients for the curry paste and blend well until everything is mixed together into a smooth paste. Slice the fish into small pieces and set aside. In a pan, heat the oil and cook the curry paste for a minute or so. Then, add the coconut milk, shrimp paste, sugar and salt to taste, making sure you blend them

ABC

as the spinach leaves, cooking it for a maximum of four minutes or until the fish is thoroughly cooked.

60 CSUF

the heat and allow it to simmer for another minute. Add the fish as well

N State Col Blvd

together by whisking ever so often. Once the liquid has cooked, lower Nutwood Ave E. Chapman Ave

Mix the egg with fish sauce and take two tablespoons of the sauce

from the pan you had cooked the fish with. Mix it well and pour it into the cooked fish, making something that looks like an omelette. Serve the fish in a small bowl with some coconut cream and top it off with some Kaffir lime leaves. www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

ÂŠ Christy- Fotolia

RECIPE

crab

Singaporean Chili Crab SINgAPoRE

his intensely popular Singaporean dish was created in 1950 by

fOR THE SAUCE:

Madam Cher yam Tian, a Singaporean chef and Mr Lim Choon

5 tablespoons tomato catsup (ketchup)

Ngee, her husband. The combination of flavors as well as the heat

1 cup water

brought upon by the chili makes this a favorite not only among Singaporeans but

1 1/2 tsp flour

for all food lovers around the world.

Salt and sugar to taste

iNSTRUCTiONS:

fOR THE DiSH:

Mix the ingredients for the sauce in a separate bowl.

1 lb. or 1/2 kilo (one pound or 500 grams) mud crabs

Turn your stove on high and heat your wok or pan with the oil in it. For about

1 egg

until the aroma is released. Add the mud crabs and stir until the shell changes

6-8 cloves of garlic, chopped

color. Add the sauce mix and continue cooking. Break the egg into the wok and

8 red chillies, chopped

stir gently until cooked, pour the lemon juice and add the spring onions. Toss

Juice of half a lemon

the sauce over the crabs to cover them before serving.

2 spring onions, chopped

Tsp = teaspoon(s) Tbsp = tablespoon(s) Pcs = pieces

45 ml or 3 tbsp vegetable oil

a minute, stir-fry the garlic, then the chopped chilies and continue stir-frying

MAR-APR 2014

www.AseAn-life.coM

Cilantro for garnishing (optional)

Thai Beef Salad THAILAND

This easy-to-make healthy recipe is a sure-fire way to lose some of that unwanted weight while enjoying such a delicious treat. The Thai Beef Salad is an explosion of flavors that will surely captivate your senses once you take that first bite. iNgREDiENTS: 1/2 kg of beef, sliced 1 clove of garlic, chopped 1 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp grated ginger 1 onion, sliced thinly 2 red chillies, sliced lengthwise and deseeded ÂŠ uckyo- Fotolia

1 small cup of roasted peanuts, preferably chopped 1 1/2 tbsp lime juice 1 tbsp sesame oil 200g cherry tomatoes, sliced into halves

beef salad

1 tbsp Thai fish sauce 1 tsp soy sauce 1 bunch each of mint, coriander and Thai basil (leaves only) 1 cucumber, sliced thinly 4 Kaffir lime leaves, sliced thinly iNSTRUCTiONS: In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic as well as the ginger for the beef marinade. Set aside half of the marinade and add the beef slices to the rest. Cover the bowl containing the beef with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for about two hours. In a non-stick pan, grill the beef for about a minute or two on each side, depending on how well you like your meat done. Once grilled, cover with foil and let the meat rest for 10 minutes. Finally, in a large bowl, add the onions, cucumber, tomatoes, mint, coriander, chilli, basil, lime leaves and the peanuts. Add the meat into the mix and drizzle it with the remaining dressing and toss. Tsp = teaspoon(s) Tbsp = tablespoon(s) Pcs = pieces Kg = kilogram or kilo 1 kilo = 1000 grams = 2.2 lbs. www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

...that it is not all about what you acquire, but it is about how you live your life with what you have --- with contentment and satisfaction in your heart...

ko og pagpahuman sa among mga anak (I am so thankful that she is resourceful and she really wants to help me. I could not make it on my own if I shouldered all my children’s education),” said Hing. Hing is entrusted by his aunt with a parcel of land planted with coconut trees

WAliS TiNgTiNg iN MAlAPATAN, SARANgANi:

from which they get their livelihood.

HARD WORK REAlly PAyS Off By JOy R. SEvILLA Sarangani Information Office, Philippines

Percita said they used to sell copra when their children were younger. However, the income was not enough for all their basic needs and for their children’s education. “Nakahuna-huna ko nga maghimo og silhig kay kung maghulat mi nga mag-copras na pud, tulo pa man ka bulan, dugay pa mi

B’laan woman harvesting

maka-income usab (I thought of making stick brooms because if we will wait for another

t is undoubtedly hard to become a

four, and resident of Sitio Molo, Barangay Libi

mother, wife, barangay health worker

in Malapatan.

volunteer and entrepreneur at the

Hing Caliwang, 52, a farmer, and husband

same time yet this noble Blaan woman, who

of Percita, said he is forever grateful for

was able to send her children to college

having Percita as his wife. He said he cannot

through stick broom-making, can say there is

make it possible for all their children to go to

no hard thing if there is passion and dedication

college without her help.

on what you do and what you really want to become.

mo-diskarte ug gusto g’yud motabang sa akoa,

Meet Percita Caliwang, 50, mother of 44

“Pasalamat ko kay akong asawa maayo

MAR-APR 2014

kay kung ako lang ang saligan, maglisod pud

www.AseAn-life.coM

three months to produce copra, it will be hard for us, we will have no income),” she recounted. Discouragement was not included in her vocabulary during the times when the selling price of her products was lower than market value. Instead, she never gave up and she continued with a positive attitude, thinking that all her labor would never be in vain. Percita’s determination and persistence has caught the attention of her neighbors and

her sister who also live in the same place. She became a source of encouragement for them to get involved in the same endeavor. For Percita, what she does is not “work.” She considers it “leisure” because she enjoys what she is doing. In the early 90s when she was just starting to craft stick brooms, Percita became the supplier of raw materials to her neighbors who were also committed to stick broommaking. Whatever her neighbors finished, she collected them and bought them at a cost of PHP2.50 each. Today, she consolidates and buys her neighbors’ produce at PHP4.00 each and sells them to wholesale buyers at the General Santos City Public Market at PHP6.00 to PHP7.00 each. A stick broom sells for PHP15 each in the marketplace. “Ang akong pinakataas na gina-deliver

Percita with the stick brooms, walis tingting

kada bulan sa duha nako ka suki sa genSan kay 5,000 ka silhig. Usahay gusto nila mas daghan

Three of her children are now

their aspirations and pursuits. She stressed

pa pero dili na pud namo maapas og himo (The

professionals having acquired degrees in

that it is not all about what you acquire, but it

highest delivery I make every month to my

Bachelor of Science in Education, Accounting

is about how you live your life with what you

two buyers in General Santos City is 5,000

Management, and Computer Technology.

have --- with contentment and satisfaction

stick brooms. Sometimes, they want to take

“Naa pa ko’y anak nga wala nakahuman

in more deliveries, but at this time we cannot

og college kay nagminyo na. gusto namo

Percita’s exciting story was first noticed

afford to produce more),” said Percita, adding

pahumanon og college pero ingon niya, siya na

by Nieda Ramos, agri-business coordinator

that today, more than 30 women in their

lang daw ang magpadayon sa akong nasugdan.

of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist

place are involved in making stick brooms.

Lipay na man pud siya sa iyang kinabuhi kay naa

(OPAG), who was among those who

na siya’y anak ug lipay na pud mi kay naa na mi

conducted a validation activity for the Sulong

livelihood projects just to support her children

apo (I have another child who was not able

Sarangani Program in Barangay Libi.

so they can finish their college education. She

to finish college because she got married.

Sulong Sarangani Program is a major

said she used to sell bananas but decided to

We encouraged her to finish college now,

province-wide development program

focus on making stick brooms.

but she said she wants to continue what I

designed to address the socio-economic

Percita said she also tried different

in your heart.

Aside from making stick brooms, Percita

have started. Anyway, she is happy with her

challenges in Sarangani. It aims to establish

also operates a sari-sari store in their locality.

life, having her own child. We are also happy

a sustainable system which will be used

Her attitude, she says, is about being always

because we already have a grandchild),” she

in terms of economic output and poverty

busy, knowing that what she does is all for

said.

reduction.

As a mother, Percita, who was a college

Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon said

In her busy life, she still manages to report

drop-out, stated that she really wants all

the program is a convergence of all resources

at the barangay health center whenever she is

her children to be professionals. However,

which will be used toward evidence-based

needed there. She has been a barangay health

she added that a mother should also

actions and measurable results.

worker volunteer for 18 years now.

understand and support her children with

her family.

The program has several components

www.AseAn-life.coM

MAR-APR 2014

na oras (Percita is a good example of someone who used what she has as resources. She is a model of diligence, wanting to make the most of her time),” said Ramos. Ramos posted Percita’s photo on Facebook and tagged it to her Filipino friend based in Canada who later expressed interest in the products’ potential of being sold there. “Maraming Pinoy sa Canada at walang walis tingting sa Canada (There’s a lot of Filipinos in Canada and there are no stick brooms in Canada). We, in the government, can always help people like Percita in our own simple way para hanapan ng mas magandang market yung produkto nila (so they can have a better market for their products),” Ramos

A B’laan woman crafts a stick broom, the “walis tingting,” in lun Masla, Sarangani Province.

explained.

Sarangani Bay at the height of 120 meters above sea level

She added that in June this year, there will be a two-day MSMEs (micro,

What’s exciting about the conference is

-- Sulong Karunungan, Sulong Kaligtasan, Sulong

small and medium enterprises) global

that participants will be given an opportunity

Kapayapaan, Sulong Sarangan, Sulong Tribu, Sulong

conference in General Santos City to be

to be tapped by foreign markets such as the

Kalusugan, Sulong Imprastraktura, Sulong Tribu,

jointly organized and facilitated by the

USA, New Zealand, Canada, and others. This

Sulong Pamunuan, and Sulong Kasaganaan.

General Santos City Small and Medium

will also encourage the MSMEs to improve

Nieda Ramos was just one of the local

Enterprises Development Council

their products and increase their productivity.

government employees under the Sulong

(SMEDC) and the South Mindanao

Percita, on the other hand, said she

Kasaganaan which focuses on agriculture. This

Fair Trade Network in which she is a

appreciates the local government in trying

component aims to empower people in the

member.

to reach out to communities and small

The conference, Ramos said, is a

entrepreneurs like her by looking for ways

“collaborative network” of farm leaders,

on how they can help improve their living

Ramos said Percita’s story is an inspiration to

producers, and US-based and other

standards.

other women in the community --- to continue to

overseas buyers whose advocacy is to

Percita admitted that she won’t stop

strive in improving their quality of life.

uplift the lives of small farmers. This is

making stick brooms even if her children have

“In Sulong Kasaganaan, we aim to engage

the first-ever gathering to be organized

finished their college education, saying it is

the people in the community to always have

in the Philippines with the coordination

through broom-making that she is making

food in their homes by planting agricultural

of the Department of Agriculture (DA),

her dreams come true not only for her

products which they can later use as a source of

Department of Trade and Industry

children but for her other aspirations.

income. Sa experience naman ni Percita, magandang

(DTI), Sarangani and GenSan Chambers

halimbawa ito na kung ano ang meron ka sa paligid

of Commerce, GenSan LGU (Local

mo, gamitin mo. Magandang ehemplo rin siya ng

Government Unit), other government

kasipagan kasi gusto niyang wala siyang nasasayang

agencies and private sector groups.

community to engage in agricultural activities such as planting crops and others.

MAR-APR 2014

www.AseAn-life.coM

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