ScandAsia November 2023 by Scandinavian Publishing Co., Ltd.

NOV 2023 BUSINESS:

Direct flights Oslo-Bangkok

COMMUNITY:

Fun Nordic Run in Bangkok

INTERNATIONAL: New Swedish Ambassador to Thailand

Richard Winkler

a Swedish artist’s journey in plaster and paint in Bali

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November 2023

ScandAsia stories

Richard Winkler successful Swedish Artist living in Bali

New Swedish Ambassador to Thailand

8. Norse launches direct flights Oslo - Bangkok 8. Sapporo and Carlsberg team up 11. Novo Nordisk buys blood pressure drug from Singapore 13. First Finnish HEI kindergarten to open in Malaysia 42. First Nordic Run in Bangkok a success

Swedish women’s yoga retreat in Bali

38 Danish agricultural visit to Thailand

40 30

Move Forward leader loves Denmark

Café Smörgås in Sanur, Bali:

42 4 ScandAsia • November 2023

Editorial

Fun Nordic Run

• The New Data Models (the Data Work stream): All individuals and professionals should be able to experience meaningful input and output of healthrelated data in real-time. • The New Business Models: All organizations providing health care should be incentivised and rewarded for preventive effor ts provided to individuals.

he first-ever Nordic Run in Bangkok, organized by the four Nordic embassies and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, was not just a fun event—it was a lively showcase of Nordic culture and values. Beyond the excitement of the event, there’s a deeper connection to Nordic commitment to health. The Nordic countries have successfully managed to brand global trends like sustainability, active lifestyle, healthy foods as something typically Nordic. The image also supports marketing of products like food supplements, medical products, active wear, etc. It also ties into a bigger initiative—the Nordic Health 2030 Movement. The Nordic Health 2030 Movement, led by the Nordic Council, came together in 2019 with a simple idea: let’s shift from fixing sickness to preventing it. This movement champions promoting an active lifestyle as a key part of moving towards sustainable solutions, teamwork, and looking at health in a more holistic way.

These principles may be a bit too abstract for the average runner that morning in Bangkok, but achieving better health on both an individual and a societal level is a goal that Thailand shares as well. The success of the Nordic Run in Thailand might be attributed to the fact that the organizers didn’t get too bogged down with all the serious stuff. By infusing a healthy dose of Thai fun into this Nordic initiative, the Thais wholeheartedly embraced this example of a more active and healthier Nordic lifestyle.

On a higher level, the goal of the Nordic Health 2030 Movement is to achieve three sets of superior principles. • The New Social Contract (the Resilience Work stream): Ever yone should contribute; nobody should be left behind. That is the balance of the responsibility that the individuals in the Nordic countries should all bear together.

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6 ScandAsia • November 2023

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November 2023 • ScandAsia 7

News brief

Norse Atlantic Airways launches direct flights between Oslo and Bangkok

Photo from the welcoming ceremony of the inaugural flight of Norse Atlantic Airways between Oslo and Thailand.

orse Atlantic Airways recently launched its first direct flight between Oslo, Norway and Bangkok, Thailand on 2 November 2023 in an attempt to strengthen ties and cultural ex-

change between the two countries. This was considered the first destination in the Asian-Pacific region of the airline. “Today is a momentous day for Norse Atlantic Airways and for

both Norway and Thailand. We are proud to be the only airline to offer this direct connection, making travel more convenient and accessible for people from both nations,” said Bjørn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways on the date of inaugural flight. The flight No. 901 took off from Gardermoen Airport in Oslo at 1.44 PM local time and arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 7.16 AM the following morning. The inaugural flight was attended by Thailand’s Ambassador to Norway, H.E. Ms. Vimolbajra Ruksakiati, and Deputy Airport Director, Ms. Dorothy-Anne Billett, cited by Aviation24. The direct flights between Oslo and Bangkok will operate on Thursday and Friday and from Bangkok to Oslo on Saturday and Sunday, according to Aviaci Online.

Sapporo and Carlsberg team up in Southeast Asia

apanese Sapporo Breweries is set to collaborate with the Danish Carlsberg Group to promote its alcoholic beverages in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore. The target is to achieve annual sales equivalent to 1.5 million cases of 20,633-milliliter bottles in Southeast Asia and Hong Kong by 2026 - doubling Sapporo’s sales estimate for the region in 2023. While Sapporo has been exporting beer to these three countries from its breweries in Japan and

8 ScandAsia • November 2023

Vietnam, it anticipates a substantial increase in sales by leveraging Carlsberg’s well-established sales channels.This strategic move is prompted by Sapporo’s declining share of the alcoholic beverage market in Japan. Masato Konno, Sales Leader at Sapporo Beer’s international business division, emphasizes the brand’s need to thrive globally by expanding its footprint in Asia. Currently, Sapporo heavily relies on Nor th America for the majority of its international sales.

AstraZeneca signs agreement with Chinese firm for oral obesity drug

str aZeneca, the AngloSwedish phar maceutical company, announced that it has entered into a licensing agreement with Eccogene, a Chinese firm, for the development of oral medicines targeting diabetes and obesity. The total value of the agreement is up to $2.01 billion, with Eccogene receiving an upfront payment of $185 million. This payment grants AstraZeneca exclusive global rights (excluding China) for the development and marketing of the drugs. An additional $1.83 billion will be paid based on the achievement

of specified milestones, as reported by the Financial Times. Pascal Soriot, Chief Executive of AstraZeneca, stated that the development of these drugs is expected to take a few years. He emphasized that the company’s focus on cost-effectiveness aims to ensure the accessibility of the drugs to a wider population. Soriot mentioned that besides addressing diabetes and obesity, the new drugs may have the potential to treat related conditions such as high blood pressure. Despite acknowledging that

News brief

AstraZeneca has been “years behind” its competitors in producing weight loss pills, the company now claims to be introducing the “next generation” of treatments.

AstraZeneca sets to reduce deaths from lung cancer in the Philippines

he British-Swedish pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca has reinforced its commitment to reduce deaths from lung cancer in

the Philippines through investments in early lung cancer screening and expedited treatments for patients. “This involves rethinking the fundamental biology of lung cancer,

starting from early stages. Our aim is to assist patients in living longer and cancer-free, to late stages, where we seek to significantly prolong survival,” Dr. Cyril Tolosa, the medical affairs director of AstraZeneca Philippines, stated. Tolosa also underlined the impor tance of the collaboration between AstraZeneca and the broader scientific community to enhance treatments for all patients. “By working with key stakeholder s, decision-maker s, and through delivering the latest technologies and insights, the company can provide innovative solutions that offer patients and clinicics the opportunity to improve survival rates,” Tolosa added. November 2023 • ScandAsia 9

News brief

Danish Embassy and Novo Nordisk plant seeds for a cleaner future in the Philippines

hoto: The reforestation activity via Embassy of Denmark in the Philippines Facebook. The Embassy of Denmark in the Philippines has in par tnership

with Novo Nordisk, contributed to building a cleaner future by planting 400 seedlings at the La Mesa Nature Reserve in the Philippines. “Being able to reforest here in

the Philippines feels like doing the right thing,” said the Danish Ambassador to the Philippines, FranzMichael Mellbin. The ambassador himself actively participated in the planting. This activity was par t of celebrating Novo Nordisk’s 100th anniversary in healthcare. ‘We are accompanied by a hundred-year history. Going forward for the next generation, we not only want to serve patients, we also want to be environmentally responsible, and we want to be a sustainable company,” said Wei Sun, Vice President and General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines.

Jaspal secures rights to import and distribute Marimekko

hai fashion retailer Jaspal Plc has successfully secured the rights to import and distribute products from the Finnish brand Marimekko in Vietnam and Malaysia. Yosathep Singhsachathet, the deputy chief executive of JPS Fashion in Vietnam and Malaysia, expressed confidence in the growth of the Marimekko brand, citing their unique designs and global reputation, combined with Jaspal Group’s strength in the lifestyle fashion business. Jaspal Group’s decision to expand was influenced by market data provided by Euromonitor International. The data indicated a rapid recovery in the fashion industry in major cities of both Vietnam and Malaysia.

10 ScandAsia • November 2023

As part of the company’s mission to become a leading fashion retailer in the ASEAN region, Jaspal Group aims to introduce new brands and products, besides the eleven renowned brands the com-

pany is currently representing, including: Marimekko, Camper, Ipanema, Asics, Fred Perry, Melissa, Diesel, Superdry, New Era, Champion, and Mango.

News brief

Novo Nordisk buys experimental blood pressure drug from Singapore

anish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk announced a $1.3 billion acquisition of an experimental hyper tension (high blood pressure) drug named ocedurenone from Singapore-based KBP Biosciences. The pill by the name “Oceduranone” is currently in its trial period for individuals with chronic kidney disease and uncontrolled high blood pressure. Positive Phase 2 data from 2021 revealed that Ocedurenone, on average, lowered systolic blood pressure by 10 points more than the placebo in patients with moderateto-severe kidney damage and systol-

ic blood pressure between 140 and 180 – despite using already existing pressure-lowering medications. In the upcoming Phase 3 trial, patients with similar characteristics will be monitored for a longer period, with results anticipated in less than a year. “We are delighted to pass the Ocedurenone torch to Novo Nordisk, a global leader in the management of chronic diseases. We believe this transition could unlock the full potential of Ocedurenone and benefit more patients with cardiovascular and kidney disease worldwide,” said KBP founder and chair, Zhenhua Huang.

“This deal is closely aligned with our strategic focus on expanding from our core in diabetes into other serious chronic diseases,” Camilla Sylvest, Executive Vice President at Novo Nordisk, said about the deal.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 11

News brief

Ericsson sues Chinese Lenovo over 5G patents

he Swedish telecom company, Ericsson, has initiated several lawsuits against the Chinese tech giant Lenovo and its subsidiary, Motorola Mobility. Ericsson claims that Lenovo, while not denying the need for a Standard Essential Patent (SEP) li-

cense, has persistently delayed paying the required royalty despite a decade of negotiations, leading to the current legal action. Lenovo has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the lawsuit. “Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to reach an agree-

ment on the terms and scope of a license. Still, both Lenovo and Motorola Mobility are using our technology without a license,” Ericsson said In a statement. The lawsuits involve claims of 5G patent infringement across multiple jurisdictions. Ericsson emphasized its substantial annual investments of approximately $4 billion, which have positioned the company as a global leader in 5G technology. The statement stressed the impor tance of patent licensing in fostering new innovations through investments, ultimately benefiting customers. Within the 5G industr y, it is customary for companies to file patent-infringement lawsuits as a means of securing licensing revenues. Ericsson reported patent-licensing revenues of around $289 million in the second quarter of the current year.

H&M launches Chinese design hub

he Swedish fast fashion giant, H&M, unveiled a China design hub at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai. The initiative aims to enhance the localization of its products, addressing the challenges of catering to the evolving preferences of Chinese consumers - a trial faced by many foreign companies. In 2021, H&M faced a boycott in China after announcing it would no longer source cotton from Xinjiang due to accusations of forced labor. The decision resulted in the removal of H&M products from several major Chinese e-commerce platforms. Despite Beijing’s denial of the accusations, the company encountered a public backlash. However, at the CIIE in Shanghai on Monday, H&M reaffirmed its

12 ScandAsia • November 2023

commitment to the Chinese market. The company announced plans to establish closer connections with its Chinese customers by adapting its product line to align with their changing tastes and needs. “Our ambition is to have a local team here in Shanghai - close

to the market, the customers, and our supply chain,” said the head of the Chinese design hub, Andreas Lowenstam. As of the end of last month, the number of H&M stores in China had dropped to 317. A decline from nearly 500 in 2019.

News brief

First Finnish HEI kindergarten opens in Malaysia next year

alaysia is set to welcome its first Finnish HEI kindergarten early next year. HEI Schools Cyberjaya conducted its signing ceremony at the Embassy of Finland in Kuala Lumpur in October, to commemorate its imminent opening in Malaysia. Ambassador Sami Leino opened the ceremony with a welcoming speech, followed by Heikki Var tia from the Finnish-based HEI Schools Headquarters. “It is remarkable to witness Finnish education models entering Malaysia, disseminating the values and techniques of the acclaimed Finnish education system. Many thanks to ever yone who par ticipated today!” The embassy wrote in a Facebook post.

Photo: Embassy of Finland in Kuala Lumpur HEI Schools is a Finnish company and an international preschool and kindergar ten concept offering

learning centers, diplomas, and curriculums based on Finland’s national curriculum.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 13

Richard Winkler – a Swedish artist’s journey in plaster and paint in Bali Richard Winkler’s journey from Sweden to the bustling streets of Bali is a tale of love, artistic passion, intuition, and the magical influence of an island that breathes life into his creations. By Miabell Mallikka 14 ScandAsia • November 2023

he story of the life of the renowned Swedish artist, Richard Winkler, seems almost predestined, as he found love with his Indonesian pen pal and embarked on a creative journey in the tropical paradise of Bali. His vibrant work bears a distinct Balinese influence. Reflecting the beauty of the island that has become his muse. For the past 26 years, Richard has called this famous tropical paradise home. Crafting paintings and sculptures that transcend the boundaries of traditional forms. His journey from Sweden to the bustling streets of Bali is a tale of love, artistic passion, intuition, and the magical influence of an island that breathes life into his creations.

The pull of love

Back in the 80s, pen-pal correspondence was a common way to connect with friends around the world while improving your English skills. A practice that has now been replaced by online platforms and social media. “The reason I moved to Bali is a long story that traces back to my secondary school days. During those years, students could have pen-pals from all over the world. This was before the digital age,” Richard shares with a genuine laugh. When Richard as a kid signed up for the pen-pal program, little did he know that this would lead him to his future wife, Regine. “In this pre-digital era, you had to select the countries you wanted to correspond with by ticking a box. I had always been passionate about nature, so I chose countries like Australia and New Zealand. Then, I stumbled upon Indonesia after finishing a book about Swedes exploring the jungles of Sumatra in the 1950s. Intrigued by their adventures, I ticked Indonesia as well. That is how I initially met my wife,” the artist shares. After falling in love during a visit to Sri Lanka, where he invited Regine to join him from Bali, they decided to give their love a chance and move somewhere together in Indonesia. Choosing between Ubud in Bali and Yogyakarta in Java, Richard and Regine decided to settle down

in Bali. Drawn by its thriving arts and culture scene. Richard, an art director with a lifelong passion for sketching and drawing, decided to explore his passion full time. He quickly found common ground with his own artistic style in collaboration with the nature surrounding him. His paintings, often centered around the human body, started incorporating Balinese elements like rice fields, mountains, and the local people engaging in their daily activities.

Finding home in Bali

Armed with curiosity and determination, Richard embarked on a life-changing journey. Leaving behind job-security, his studio and the familiar surroundings in Sweden. At first the couple settled down in Kuta due to Regine’s job. But the tourist hub of Kuta felt foreign and unwelcoming to Richard and therefore prompted the couple to seek a more authentic experience, which they found in Ubud. Amidst the lush greenery of the jungle, Richard found his sanctuary. The traditional house they rented became a canvas for his creativity. A space where his artistic visions could flourish. “It was truly fantastic to begin our Bali journey in Ubud. We were literally immersed in the heart of the jungle. Surrounded by the traditional life. Ubud radiate the spirit of Bali, with its many ceremonies and the nature. Those years gave me a true understanding of Bali and the islands traditional way of life as well as its unique charm,” Richard says with affection in his voice.

From Ubud to Sanur

Bali, with its enchanting landscapes and vibrant energy, had become the perfect canvas for Richard’s creations. Immersed in the island’s unique rhythm, he found the freedom to explore his art fully in Ubud.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 15

daughter, which led them to Sanur. Initially skeptical about settling in what seemed like a bustling beach-town, they stumbled upon a hidden gem, that would become their haven. In a leap of faith, they purchased the house, that would not only become their home, but the Swedes artistic sanctuary and showroom.

From paint to plaster

“When I first arrived, I was surprised to see that the scenes I had previously painted – like women bathing in rivers and lakes, mirrored the daily life of the local people. This way of living resonated with my earlier artistic expressions,” Richard explains. “I also think that this unforeseen connection and inspiration, has played a significant role in my positive feedback among Indonesian collectors. They could probably identify elements that has felt familiar and therefore fostered a sense of recognition and appreciation for my work,” he adds about his journey towards success. The couple lived in the heart of Ubud for nine years before their life took a new turn with the arrival of their 16 ScandAsia • November 2023

Richard’s ar tistic journey has evolved as he has explored various forms. Starting initially as a painter back in Sweden, not only has his art transformed from mainly abstract to more figurative, he has also incorporated sculptures into his work. His commitment to both art forms becomes evident, as you look around his house in Sanur, which manages to showcase his art in an aesthetic and beautiful way. “I get to keep one of the sculptures, which I then showcase here around the house. It’s different from the paintings, because there are five sculptures created based on every prototype I make. With paintings, you usually make just one and then it goes to the collector, so I don’t have that many paintings hanging here, even though I’ve recently been more focused on painting.” While he still paints, his sculptures have now become a natural extension of his three-dimensional vision, as he sought to translate his figures into touchable forms.

Feeling the forms

“It was around 2009, when we got this house, which gave me some space, I started working with sculptures on the side. Because working with sculptures is quite dusty and dirty. So, I have to keep it separate from my painting

area. But sculpting was something I had wanted to do for a long time because my paintings already have a sculptural quality to them; they are very three-dimensional. I always wondered how they would look if I could touch and turn them around.” Through the creative process starting with plaster, Richard is manually shaping sculptures that capture the essence of life.The plaster originals, embodying his artistic vision, afterwards serve as the foundation for a form that are transformed into robust bronze sculptures through a complicated casting process. Each original plaster figure spawns five unique bronze pieces, creating a limited series. “I consider the sculptures an extension of my work. It wasn’t a difficult step, as they complement each other. When I work with sculptures, I gain specific input and inspiration for my paintings, and I’ve always enjoyed seeing paintings and sculptures together in exhibitions. It has been a dream of mine to exhibit both together.”

The Balinese connection – a network of creativity

One of the most striking aspects of the artist’s Bali journey is the synergy between his work and the Balinese community. From chance encounters to purposeful collaborations, Bali introduced him to a network of fellow artists, collectors and enthusiasts. These interactions not only enriched his artistic journey but also deepened his understanding of the island’s soul. “I collaborate with one gallery now that represent me. An Indonesian gallery. After several years in Bali, the dealer found me and trusted my work enough to

acquire paintings without seeing them first. We’ve been exclusively collaborating since.The gallery showcasing my art in Jakarta and at prominent events like the Singapore Art Fair. His trust and commitment has transformed our partnership into a success.” The narrative highlights the artist’s progression in the art world and his strategy for building an art career in Bali and beyond. He shares insights into the art market in Indonesia, which is driven by wealthy collectors, both local and international. “The collectors are primarily affluent Indonesians, predominantly from Jakarta, but also from Central Java, Surabaya, and other regions. Additionally, we have buyers located around Southeast Asia, including Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan and occasionally from other parts of the world. However, the majority of our clients are Indonesians,” Richard explains.

A journey of artistic transformation

Richards journey from Sweden to Bali is a testament to the power of intuition, determination and creativity. In Bali, he found more than a home; he discovered a sanctuary where his sculptures breathe, and his paintings come alive. With each creation, he pays homage to the island’s spirit. The narrative offers a unique insight into the life of an artist who dared to take a change on love and follow his dreams, and thereby found inspiration in the cultural and artistic richness of Bali. Ultimately thriving in the vibrant art scene of Indonesia.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 17

Swedish women’s annual yoga retreat in Bali A group of Swedish women gather every year in the heart of Bali where spirituality and tranquility merge to embark on a deep exploration of selfdiscovery through yoga. For these women, Bali isn’t just a destination; it’s a sanctuary where healing and selfdevelopment begins. By Miabell Mallikka

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n the heart of Bali, where spirituality and tranquility merge, a group of Swedish women embarks on an annual transformative journey. Every year, they gather in the warm embrace of Ubud, Bali’s spiritual center, to embark on a deep exploration of self-discovery through yoga. For these women, Bali isn’t just a destination; it’s a sanctuary where healing and self-development begins.

The genesis of the journey

The annual retreat is organized by the mother-daughterduo, Pia and Caroline Westergren. Their story starts with a simple idea – what if they combined their love for yoga with their passion for travel? “I had my 60th birthday in February 2020, so me and my husband took our four kids, grandchildren and daughters-in-law to Thailand. After two weeks, all the kids went home and then Caroline, me and her dad went to Bali. One night we were talking about running our own

yoga retreat here in Bali. Soon after we started browsing for the right location,” Pia and Caroline shared. Even as they sit in the midst of the tropical landscape of Bali, their Scandinavian roots are irrefutable. The same goes for their shared genetics, as both their light eyes brighten up, just by talking about their work at the retreat. The idea for the Bali yoga retreat stemmed from a deep love for the Indonesian paradise. Having visited Bali numerous times, the mother-daughter team envisioned a space where the serene Balinese surroundings could intertwine with the practice of yoga, leading to a profound spiritual experience. “Ubud is the heart of Bali. It is also Bali’s spiritual center. The whole town is full of yoga studios and everything is just really beautiful. Ubud has always been the spiritual center of the island, so it made sense to choose this area for the retreat.

From dream to reality

The family’s love affair with Bali began long before the idea of the retreat was conceived. The mystical charm of the island, with its vibrant energy and spiritual allure, continuously drew them back to the place. In the search for the ideal location, the duo suddenly remembered their encounter with Lily Lane Villas back in 2014. “We remembered the place was quite nice, so we decided to just drop in and say hi. Jillian, who owns the place recognized us even after all this time. We explained to her how we were thinking about doing a yoga retreat, and so she showed us around. We just knew that this was the right place,” Caroline explains with Pia nodding next to her. They had thereby found the perfect venue for their vision and the pieces were slowly falling into place. Surrounded by nature, the two Swedes have managed to

craft a haven for Swedish women’s self-exploration and growth.

Life altering turn of events

It wasn’t always in the cards, that the mother-daughter duo would teach Swedish women yoga in Bali. Mamma Pia, used to own her own nail salon, but after a health setback, she found solace and purpose in yoga. “I had a small nail salon back home in Skåne, but all of the sudden, I got really sick. The doctor said it was the nail dust, and due to the condition of my lungs, I had to stop immediately. This was around 12 years ago,” Mamma Pia shares. Pia’s journey from a nail salon owner to a yoga teacher turned out to be a transformational one. In 2016, highly influenced by Caroline, Pia took the plunge and became a cer tified yoga teacher. The decision to transition was abrupt, and Pia back then found herself at a crossroad. “Since my husband was a captain on a cruise ship in Asia, and our four kids had moved out, I had to fill my days with something,” Pia says. Her newfound passion for yoga led her to seek out private instructors, as she initially was too hesitant to attend group classes – fearing she would do it “wrong.” It was Caroline who then planted the idea that would lead to the creation of a yoga studio in Sweden – Skånes Yoga & Healing Center. “She was spending a lot of money on private teachers, so I just asked her, what if she were to take all that money and spend it on becoming a yoga teacher instead. Then she could just do it herself,” Caroline adds. The two sharing a smile that shows the very special bond between them.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 19

Working together as a team in more than one continent

Encouraged by her daughter’s suggestion, Pia contemplated the idea. Though she was Initially skeptical, she gradually overcame her doubts. After completing her yoga teacher training in 2016, she soon after started her own yoga studio. “Me and my husband had lived in the same house for 25 years, in a small town called Oxie, just outside of Malmö. After I completed my teacher training, we found a fantastic house with an annex. We moved 700 meters down the road just so I could have my own yoga studio,” Pia says with a small, but grateful smile. Shor t after Caroline herself pursued her yoga teacher training in Nepal in 2019, which set the stage for their collaborative venture.Together, they have overcome challenges, including the constraints of the pandemic, and created a nurturing space for self-exploration – both in Bali and back in Sweden. “At first, we had a full group of 14 or 15 women, and we were supposed to come here in November 2020. That was the first time we planned it. Then Covid came and we moved it to 2021, still covid. We then moved it to 2022 where we took 12 women here. This time we were only seven, including the two of us.”

Balancing chakras and nurturing souls

Each day of the retreat focuses on exploring the chakras – the body’s energy centers, one at a time. Through Yindalini yoga, a unique blend of yin and kundalini yoga, participants delve into a holistic journey of self-awareness

20 ScandAsia • November 2023

and healing. Guided by Pia and Caroline, the aim is to balance the chakras and create a free flow of energy. “Last year we did kundalini yoga, but this year we’ve mixed it up. We haven’t really heard of anyone else practicing Yindalini in Sweden, so it is kind of our thing. We do Yindalini with focus on one chakra at a time. The first day it’s the root chakra and then we keep going from there until we have been through all the chakras,” they explain. Located at the picturesque Lily Lane Villas, the retreat offers an intimate setting in private villas – each with its own pool, where the participants get to relax after their daily morning routine. “After our morning yoga, which is around an hour, we all have breakfast. Afterwards we have a conversation about the chakra we are working with that day. That way they learn more about what it is, and how that specific chakra works,” Caroline shares.

More than just a yoga retreat

Beyond the yoga sessions, the retreat includes a rich tapestry of experiences. From traditional Balinese massages to an excursion to Bali’s sacred sites – including the holy water temple, where the participants engage in the traditional purification ceremonies. The attendees get to immerse themselves in Bali’s rich cultural heritage and every day brings a new adventure. “Of course, we go to the holy water temple where you get purification. It’s this natural spring where the locals go to get cleansed. It’s all about getting rid of your bad negative karma and purifying all your chakras. That makes it very well in line with the theme of our retreat,” Caroline says.

Lily Lane Villas – It’s all about karma

The retreat’s home, Lily Lane Villas, is more than just a venue; it’s a sanctuary of its own. The allure of the place isn’t just about its picturesque surroundings. It’s the embodiment of Bali’s core beliefs and way of life. One of the features that drew Pia and Caroline to this specific location was its organic garden. Here, amidst the vibrant greens and colorful blooms, the majority of the food served during the retreat is grown. From the vegetables on their plate to the eggs in their breakfast – everything is either homegrown or sourced locally. Embodying a healthy and holistic approach to the retreat. “One of the things that we really like about this place is their organic garden. It’s very holistic and the food is always beautifully served. And nothing goes to waste. They even share the leftovers with the less fortunate locals, which is truly beautiful,” they both agree. Each morning, the compound comes alive with a unique Balinese ritual. The guests wake up to find offerings, meticulously crafted from coconut leaves, left outside their villa. These offerings, filled with flowers, incense and rice, are a symbol of gratitude to the Gods for the blessings bestowed upon them. During the retreat, a special offering class allows the participants to create their own personal offerings. Infusing them with their own wishes, and then personally present them at the Ganesha within the complex.

“A huge part of what we like about this place is that it’s all about karma. Everyone is very friendly. They’re very helpful because the basis of their belief is karma. You do good, you get good back.”

When you know better, you do better

“There is this expression. I think it was Maya Angelou who said “when you know better you do better.” That is the essence of what we are trying to do here. Because if you start working with yourself everything will get easier,” Pia says. As the duo plan for the future, they share a dream of expanding their retreat and have more women join and experience the magic of Bali. “Even though we teach in Swedish that doesn’t mean that the participants have to be located in Sweden. What is included in our price is the private villa, the yoga classes and activities plus breakfast and lunch. Flight ticket is something people have to purchase themselves. So, you can easily be located in Southeast Asia and still come and join us. You just have to understand enough Swedish to keep up,” the duo adds. As of now, the next retreat will be in January 2025. “If there are many inquiries to do one in 2024, we can probably be convinced,” they admit when asked. If you are interested in joining the group for their next trip, find out more on their website: skanesyogaochhealingcenter.se November 2023 • ScandAsia 21

The mysteries of Bali in Swedish owned Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa “I like to think that the land came to me rather than the other way around,” says Magnus Falk.

By Miabell Mallikka n the heart of Bali, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, lies an oasis that defies the ordinary. Originally envisioned by Swedish Magnus Falk as a couple’s retreat, this haven has transformed into a sanctuary for creativity, spirituality, and rejuvenation. What sets it apart is not just its location in the wild, natural beauty of the jungle, but the mystical aura that surrounds it. Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa is a place where ancient traditions and nature’s wonders meet.

From chance encounter to dream resort

In the late 1990s, while living and working in Hong Kong, amidst his travels across Asia, a twist of fate led Magnus to this small village near Ubud. 22 ScandAsia • November 2023

“I used to travel to Bali a lot, especially this region around Ubud. I would go up the mountain and then I’d bicycle down. Every time I would take a different route. One day I’d pass a temple and the next a waterfall etc.,” Magnus shares. What started as a chance encounter with a villager, who graciously invited Magnus in for coffee as he was on one of his trips down the mountain, turned into an unexpected venture that would transform his life forever. “I like to think that the land came to me rather than the other way around. I had no intention of buying land here at that time, but it just came up and then the idea about the hotel came to me.” The late 1990s and early 2000s brought both challenges and opportunities. The Indonesian financial crisis

of 1998 presented a chance to invest in the land, while the disaster of 2002 paved the way for construction at a discounted cost. “There was a big disaster here in 2002 and nobody had work. Bali was dead. That gave me an opportunity to actually start to build something at a discounted price,” Magnus adds. Armed with a vision inspired by the dramatic architecture and fertile land of the region, he started building Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa from scratch.

Not without challenges

The journey was not without its trials. The steep, mountainous terrain demanded innovative construction techniques, resulting in a resort supported by numerous pillars, each standing strong against the test of time. Despite the challenges, the resort officially opened in 2005. Since then, the resort has expanded, adding more modern villas in 2019, bringing the total number of villas from 18 to 34. The dream, however, continues to evolve. Magnus still aspire to add more villas to embrace the spirit of his magical place.

A spiritual awakening

What makes the place magical is the river flowing just below the resort.This is not just any river. For years this river remained a local secret. A place untouched due to its perceived inaccessibility. But this specific river is renowned by the locals as more than just water and stone; it’s one of the islands strongest channels for the spirits of Bali. “Back when I first bought the land I didn’t bother to go down there. I just assumed it would be the same as to the north and to the south of us. That you could not access the river because it would be too narrow, too much water and too many rocks. That you wouldn’t be able to

Magnus Falk by Miabell Mallikka get into the actual water. Even after I opened the resort, I still hadn’t been physically down by the river. ” “It’s also a long way down. Back then we didn’t have the stairs that we have now. We build those in 2007 and we opened the resort in 2005,” Magnus shares with excitement. 200 steps. That is how far down the river is. 200 steps, after you pass all the original villas at the resort – build down the mountainside. This leads to even more steps to be taken, if you walk the distance. After he experienced the river himself, Magnus did not only have the stairs build, but also a lift that can take you some of the way.

Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa

November 2023 • ScandAsia 23

I had no intention of buying land here at that time, but it just came up and then the idea about the hotel came to me.

Original villas by Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa

New villas by Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa “But the last 200 steps down. The steep ones that we build under the resort. You will have to climb them to experience it,” he explains.

The river of spirits

Local folklore intertwines with the testimonies of travelers, speaking of spirits that originate from the island’s volcanoes and mountains and are channeled through the island’s elaborate network of rivers. The river below the resort has become a sanctuary where the spirits dwell. It’s a place where water and earth meet. Where Vishnu and Shiva converge and creates a sacred space. “It all started with the locals around here coming up to me to tell me how nice it is down there. How there’s a little riverbank and waterfalls. Several told me how they would climb down the mountain side to assess this exact area, because for them it’s a holy place, where the bathe and pray. So, I finally went down there and I said wow, my goodness. It really is like an oasis down there.” He then started the work of building the many steps down to the magical river. “And being Bali, of course, we had to have the blessing from the priest before we could officially open the area,” Magnus adds.

Blessed by the local priest

Following the blessing by the local priest, the river’s hidden wonders were unveiled. Even the priest, attuned to the spiritual essence of Bali and went to Magnus to acknowledge the exceptional presence of spirits by his place. 24 ScandAsia • November 2023

“The local priest came up to me after he did his blessing. He came up to me and thanked me for letting him bless the place. I was just like ‘Pemangu (Balinese for priest), you’re the one blessing my place. I’m the one thanking you.’ He then said ‘no, you don’t understand, I have to give thanks, because I’m a holy man. I’ve been everywhere in Bali where there’s holy places, but I have never been anywhere in Bali where the presence of spirits is so high and so dense as just here by your place by the river.’” The priest then shared the Balinese beliefs with Magnus. He explained that according to Balinese tradition, all spirits in the region originate from the mountains and volcanoes. These spirits then flow into the rivers, which are abundant in Bali due to the island’s volcanic nature and heavy rainfall. The significance of these rivers lies in their role as channels for the spirits. The priest described Bali as a volcanic island with numerous rivers, emphasizing how these waterways served as canals for the spirits. The river underneath Nandini, is narrow and enclosed by 100-meter rock walls on each side. This natural formation acts like a lagoon, restricting the movement of the spirits. Consequently, the spirits will find themselves trapped in this area, resulting in a notably high presence of spiritual energy. The phenomenon remains consistent regardless of the season, as the river is sustained by waterfalls originating from inside the mountains. These waterfalls ensure a continuous flow of water, making this exact spot sacred.

The meditation guru’s similar experience

“Sometime after the priest gave his blessing and told me about this story, we had another group coming here from Belgium to meditate. After they had a meditation down by the river, the leader said to me ‘look man. I need to tell you something. I am a meditation guru. I’ve been anywhere in the world teaching meditation. I’ve been to Bhutan, Himalaya, Peru, you name it, I’ve been there. I can tell you that I’ve never been anywhere in the world, where the meditation is as good as down by your river place,’” Magnus shares with a sparkle in his eyes. The guru thereby proclaimed that the meditation experience by the river underneath Nandini was unparalleled.The guru told Magnus of the unique combination of the river’s powerful energy – a result of the water smashing against the rocks – and the release of negative ions, creating an atmosphere beneficial to profound meditation. The union of these energies was a rarity, making this place a haven for those seeking inner peace and looking for the ideal location for breathing exercises. “Then I remembered the priest. When it comes down to it, the priest told me the same story as the meditation guru, but from different schools. One is talking about spirits, the other one is talking about ions. At the end of the day, I don’t know which one is the correct one, but it doesn’t really matter. The point is that they share the same experience. They both feel the energy,” Magnus says with pride in his voice.

The puzzling monkey-mystery

But the energy of the river is not just felt by humans. As Magnus explains, a peculiar mystery remains. “We have a lot of monkeys in the area and they won’t go there. It doesn’t matter what I do. Even if I put food down there, they still won’t go,” Magnus tells. This mystery has left the locals to believe that the spirits are telling the monkeys to stay away. “Nobody knows why.The locals are sure it’s because the spirits won’t allow them to go down there. The monkeys can sit five meters from the river, but they never get closer than that. Maybe because the energy is too strong. I don’t know. Weird things are going on there. Bali is like this,” he adds.

A sanctuary found, not advertised

Magnus has never actively marketed his sacred place. Instead, he shares how it seemed as though those who were meant to experience its energy were guided here by themself. Yoga practitioners, meditation enthusiasts, and seekers of spiritual enlightenment have found their way to Nandini for years. Speaking of their experiences and creating a word-of-mouth phenomenon that has drawn like-minded people to the five-star jungle gem. “This place has been given to us by nature. I’ve just been lucky, because you cannot assess the place anywhere else but through the resort. It’s impossible,” Magnus adds with a subtle smile.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 25

ScandAsia went diving with Amed Jepun Divers in Bali

By Miabell Mallikka ith the SNUS sign in front of the small sundeck, I feel certain that I have found the right place among the many diving centers in Amed Beach, Bali. “Hi! I’m Miabell from ScandAsia. I’m here to see Kira,” I say to the friendly staff sitting on the deck, as I walk up the small wooden stairs.a

Danish owned diving center in Bali

Kira Strand Hald is the Danish owner of Amed Jepun Divers, along with her Canadian partner, Serge Desro26 ScandAsia • November 2023

siers. The two opened the place in 2015 after meeting at the Gili Islands back in 2013. Their story was covered by ScandAsia in 2019. “Kira and your diving instructor will be here shortly,” says Yoga with a genuine smile. Yoga is one of the staff members who is currently doing his teacher training to become a diving instructor. He shows me to a seat, and serves me something cold to drink while I wait. Shortly after, Made, my instructor for the day, arrives and introduces himself. Like Yoga, he greets me with a welcoming smile, that instantly makes me comfortable in his friendly hands.

“I have to warn you,” I say. “I have never dived before. I’ve never even tried snorkeling. I’m not even sure when was the last time I had my head underwater. Honestly, I don’t really go into the water. So, you’ll have your hands full with me,” I confess – expecting him to give up right away and call the whole thing off. Instead, he just smiles and reassures me, that everything will be fine.

Extensive health check

Made then hands me an extensive form to fill out. “It’s important that you read it carefully and are able to say ‘no’ in all the boxes concerning your health status,” Made points out, while I stare disoriented at the page filled with possible health concerns.

dangers of diving, I get distracted by the warm atmosphere and lively small talk around me. Half-listening to the video, I manage to strike up a conversation with Kira, who enthusiastically and instructively shares her extensive knowledge and passion for diving. She manages to ease some of my biggest concerns, like getting water in my eyes or what happens if the pressure in my ears gets too high. Making me feel more calm and comfortable as we start to get ready for the underwater journey.

Getting into the suit

Made takes me to the equipment room and finds me a wetsuit. “Try this on,” he says.

Made Sumerta Yasa. Diving instructor at Amed Jepun Divers

from left : Caroline, Andreas and Serge

First one: History of ear infections. “Excuse me. Does this mean that I can’t go diving if I had an ear infection when I was two years old?” I ask with a wide-eyed stare, illustrating my concern. “Do you still have any symptoms today?” Made ask with sincerity and without mocking me. “No,” I reply slightly embarrassed. Made sends me a warm smile, assuring me that it will not be a problem.

Made unzips the back of the suit and hands it to me. I take off my shorts and begin the challenge of squeezing into the heavy thing. After I manage to fit both legs through, I encounter difficulties when the wetsuit reaches my hips. “I think it’s too small,” I tell Made, with frustration engraving my face as I struggle to pull up the suit. “Just pull harder,” Made advises. “It will be too big on the top if we go up a size,” he politely adds, avoiding further comments on the matter. After a couple of minutes, a few tears, and a lot of sweat due to a combination of my struggle and the tropical heat, the wetsuit is finally on and Made zips me up in the back. During my fight to fit into the suit, the rest of the group has already suited up and gathered all the equipment – ready to go.

More like a gathering of friends

As I go through the papers, one of Kira’s Danish friends from back home, Andreas, arrives, as he will be joining us on the diving excursion. “I thought her friend Caroline was the one joining us,” I say to him as he introduces himself with a smile. “Caroline is my girlfriend. When we are here, we fight about who gets to go diving. We have two small kids, so one of us has to stay back with them. Today I won,” he says with an even wider grin. Not long after, the entire team is here on the small but welcoming deck – Kira, Serge, Andreas, Made, Yoga, and me. Made puts on an introduction video, created for beginners such as me. While I try to absorb all the information and ignore the serious warnings about the many

Further Trials

As Kira had already explained, we would simply walk out from the beachfront instead of sailing out on a boat to where the water is too deep. One of the staff members drives us there, and a few minutes later, we are on the

November 2023 • ScandAsia 27

from left : Andreas Hagelund, Made Sumerta Yasa, Miabell Mallikka and Kira Strand Hald

Miabell (ScandAsia) with Made by Kira Strand Hald

beach, getting ready to enter the water. Made once again goes through the most important hand signals with me before instructing me on how the vest and oxygen tank works. He then helps me put on the vest with the 18-kilogram heavy tank, which almost knocks me over. Fortunately, Made is there to catch me as I’m about to fall. In the meantime, several divers appear from their dives and greet Kira, as soon as they see her. Illustrating how diving in Amed is not just a sport, but a community. “You won’t feel the weight of the tank when you’re in the water,” Made reassures me, while I’m busy observing the friendly vibes around me. “But I have to get to the water first,” I reply, short of breath. I bend forward like an old, hunchbacked woman, and slowly start walking toward the waterfront where Kira and Andreas are waiting for us. “Will you take a picture of us?” Kira asks the staff member who drove us to the beach, handing him her phone. The four of us line up. With Made and Kira standing on each side of me, they both help me stand up straight long enough for a photo, before we all walk out into the water.

holding my hand, I stare into his friendly face and follow him down until my face starts to touch the water. Panic slowly rises as it touches my lips, my nose. I try to submerge it all, but it feels like I can’t breathe, and I quickly resurface, gasping for air. “It feels like I’m drowning,” I gasp. Panic is painted across my face. For a moment, I contemplate whether or not I can quit now. Then I remember Serge, Kira’s partner, telling me how everyone hates diving in the first five minutes. “No one likes the first five minutes of their first dive, but after five minutes, people love it. It’s quite addictive once you get past those initial moments,” his voice echoes in my mind, followed by my own cocky voice saying, “I promise to give it at least 10 minutes.” There was no way I could back out now. With Made still holding my hand, we slowly start by getting my face underwater without making me feel like I am drowning. After a couple of tries, we then proceed to snorkel around close to the shore.

Entering the Unknown

Slowly, we walk out into the deep blue sea. While I can still touch the ground, we stop and begin the exercises. The first step is to get my head underwater. With Made 28 ScandAsia • November 2023

“Hello”

Slowly, I find myself getting further and further down. Gradually, Made gently guides me under the surface in a way that makes it feel natural. I spend the first 30 seconds underwater. Then a minute. Soon, two minutes. I begin to get used to breathing underwater, accustomed to the bubbles, and improving my technique to control the pres-

From our dive by Kira Strand Hald

sure in my ear channels. But after a while, the pressure becomes too intense, and I resurface. “Hello,” says Made as he too reappears. “Look at you,” he continues, wearing a big, genuine smile. “You’re like a different person,” he says, making me feel as proud of my minor accomplishment. Shortly after, we descend again, and the intervals between my need to resurface slowly but steadily expand. Made keeps communicating with me, using hand signals underwater to ensure I’m always okay. And I am. This is a whole new world opening up. It is as if time stands still. Everything moves in slow motion. The sunlight filters through the water, creating stars around us. Little blue fish sparkle like luminescent light bulbs amidst the mustard yellow, velvet-looking plants on the seabed. A stream of even smaller silver fish suddenly passes us, before we swim straight toward some larger yellow fish. Their huge eyes seemingly looking directly at me. In fear of swimming into the fish, I once again ascend to the surface. “Hello,” says Made. “Who are you?” he then asks, sending me a smile that makes me smile even wider and I find a strange comfort in knowing exactly how he will greet me as we resurface.

Time flew by

The movement underwater might seem like slow motion, but time flies by. During our last round, I spend ten

minutes underwater without interruptions, descending to a depth of 3 meters, when Made and I swim into Kira and Andreas. As we all resurface, it turns out we have been diving for an hour. The first five minutes felt like an eternity, but the last fifty-five felt like fifteen. Slightly reluctant, I follow the others back to shore, where I quickly start to feel the weight on my shoulders again. A weight that had been lifted during my time in the water. Once again, Made is there to catch me, and he offers to carry my tank along with his own. An offer I have to refuse, even though he keeps insisting. Instead, he supports me all the way to the car. Just as he supported me underwater. “You did so well,” Kira says as we reach the others. “I’m so proud of you,” she adds with a warn and friendly smile. I can feel myself smiling, not just from the compliment, but due to the whole experience. When we return to the Amed Jepun Divers shop, Serge is there to greet us. “How was it?” he asks right away. I have to admit that he was right about the first five minutes, as well as he was right about it being amazing, once you pass that hurdle. “Be careful,” he warns. “It’s quite addictive,” he adds with a smile, and I already know that he is probably right about this as well.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 29

Café Smörgås in Sanur: From a Swedish dream to a Balinese reality

By Miabell Mallikka n the heart of the tranquil beach town of Sanur, Bali, is a charming café named Café Smörgås. Founded in 2006 by Swedish Johan and Lotta Lassesson, the Scandinavian sounding café started from a desire to have a place where it was possible to get a decent coffee and a sandwich in Sanur. It has later become a beloved spot for locals, tourists, and expats alike.

Just wanted a decent coffee and a sandwich

“We simply star ted the place because there was nowhere to find coffee and a sandwich. Back then, only one place served that, but it was a bit more exclusive, and we both missed just having a sandwich and a good cup of coffee,” Johan, who is now the solo owner, shares with a subtle smile. Back in 2005, the family was living in Stockholm, Sweden, when they first embarked on this journey. Their decision was spurred by a tragic event and a desire to 30 ScandAsia • November 2023

Miabell Mallikka

I have met many Swedish people and families here who have tried to do the same thing. They uproot their life and move to Bali, but most of them fail.

live life to the fullest. After the sudden passing of Johan’s mother, they realized that life is short and decided to seize an opportunity that came their way. “My mom suddenly passed away, which made me think that life can be shor t. Both me and Lotta had dreamed of living abroad for a while. So, we started looking for a project, and I found a hotel here in Bali, ready to take over,” Johan explains.

Slowly it evolved

Their adventure thereby began with taking over a small hotel in Bali in 2005. A business they then expanded with Café Smörgås in 2006. The café started modestly, meeting the basic needs of the customers. Over time, it has slowly evolved into the popular place it is today. Not just as a meeting point for locals and tourists, but as a caterer for several international schools in the area. “A Swedish woman who had three kids attending the international school asked us if we would consider delivering sandwiches and fresh salads to the school. There were five other vendors catering for the school at the time, but we quickly became the most popular one, so we took over the canteen. That was in 2007.” Today, Smörgås still delivers lunch to three international schools in the area.

An international love for Swedish meatballs

The journey has not been without challenges. Adapting to local regulations and navigating the complexities of licenses and permits has been a test, Johan admits, but still they persevered. Johan Lassesson November 2023 • ScandAsia 31

We simply started the place because back then there was nowhere to find good coffee and a nice sandwich,

Staff at Café Smörgås

“We have to offer a wide selection due to the tourists. Especially if they bring their kids, then they want options. Our second most sold dish is Nasi Goreng. That one is only bought by tourists. The locals come here for the meatballs. A lot of people come for the Swedish meatballs,” Johan adds. With an Indonesian chef trained in Sweden, the preparation of the carefully selected Swedish dishes brings the guests an authentic Scandinavian experience.

All in or all out

Photo: Miabell Mallikka The café’s popularity grew, and the menu was expanded. Mainly to accommodate the many tourists, but also to serve the numerous local guests, and to celebrate their Scandinavian roots. “We have Scandinavians coming here, but they’re not the biggest clientele. Our main clientele is probably the local Balinese. We also have a lot of tourists and expats from around the world, but we are quite popular among the locals. Especially our Swedish meatballs. That is our bestseller,” Johan tells with a grin.

Tourist dictates the menu

But the menu at Café Smörgås reflects not just the culinary preferences of the founders. It also caters to the diverse tastes of the visitors. 32 ScandAsia • November 2023

What sets Café Smörgås apart is not just the Swedish food on the menu, or the Scandinavian inspired décor. It’s the spirit with which the place was created. The Lassesson’s bold decision to uproot their lives and fully immerse themselves in this venture embodies the spirit of the café. Their commitment, dedication, and willingness to embrace the Balinese way of life is a story of the European dream coming true. “I have met many Swedish people and families here who have tried to do the same thing. They uproot their life and move to Bali, but most of them fail,” Johan shares. Johan tells how these people would make halfhearted attempts to migrate, and how everyone who failed was those who left something behind. “Maybe they kept an apartment, or a house. Maybe they still had kids back in Sweden. We chose a different path. We sold everything we had and went for it.” The beginning was tough. Financial str uggles stretched five years.Yet, in Bali, they discovered a different way of life. In Sweden, days were filled with endless work, leaving no room for yourself. But in Bali, time expanded. Help was affordable, allowing them to cherish moments together. The rhythm on the island seemed more harmonious making it worth the initial struggles. “We struggled the first five years financially, because it’s always difficult to start a business. It takes time to grow. But life is just much more convenient here, so we still decided to stay and make it work. And we are both glad we did.”

reputation, Lange’s impact on Bali’s history was undeniable. In addition to his trading pursuits, Lange became a cultural patron, suppor ting local ar tists and craftsmen. His contributions helped preser ve traditional Balinese ar ts, fostering a flourishing artistic community.Today, Bali’s vibrant arts scene stands as a testament to Lange’s legacy.

In the memory of Mads Lange

Tragically, Lange’s life was cut short in 1856 when he was assassinated. Despite his untimely demise, his memory lives on in the collective consciousness of the Balinese people. There is even a memorial site in Bali dedicated to the Dane. Upon my arrival, I found the gate locked. However, not long after I got there, a local woman approached me and asked if I wanted to go inside. After my visit, I was also invited to sign the visitor book for the Mads Lange Memorial site - a book that likewise stands as a testament to the impact the Dane made on the island.

Mads Johansen Lange: The legacy of the King of Bali By Miabell Mallikka

ads Johansen Lange, was born on May 6, 1807, in Denmark. He led a remarkable life as a seafarer and trader, and becaome known as the King of Bali. His ventures took him to Bali in 1839, where he quickly became a prominent figure in the island’s trading scene. Known for his business insight, Lange established successful trade routes, dealing in spices, coffee,

and textiles. He quickly earned the respect of both the Balinese locals and European traders.

Becoming the “King of Bali”

Lange’s understanding of Balinese politics and society allowed him to build strong relationships with the local nobility and rulers. His influence grew, earning him the title “Raja,” or King of Bali, among the islanders. Despite his controversial November 2023 • ScandAsia 33

Anna Hammargren New Swedish Ambassador to Thailand 34 ScandAsia • November 2023

The new Swedish Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Anna Hammargren talks to ScandAsia about her path to where she is today - and what she enjoys about her unique job. By Agneta de Bekassy

candAsia had the pleasure to welcome H.E. Anna Hammargren, the new Swedish Ambassador to Thailand, on 23. October 2023. Anna Hammargren was born in Solna, a prime settlement and municipality located just north of Stockholm, but grew up in nearby Sollentuna, also north of the capital. In Sollentuna, Anna went to school and after finishing High School, Anna took a break from studying and decided – like so many young Swedish women do – to spread her wings and go abroad. Her choice fell on Dallas/For t-Wor th in Texas where she had relatives, and there she took up a job as au pair. She smiles when she tells how surprised she was to see most guys her own age, wearing checkered shirts and cowboy boots. That was far from the dress-code or fashion in Sweden. She worked as an au pair for one year and then went traveling around in the US before returning to Sweden. Anna has always had a big interest in politics and society and majored in political science-including also macro-economics, languages and history. She pursued these interests when she began studying at the University of Stockholm. Additionally, she took some programs in Montpellier/France and in Toronto/Canada. But she was not driven by the idea to eventually become a diplomat.

“Oh, absolutely not,” she exclaims. “It was a friend of mine who suggested that I should apply for the diplomatic program at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs”. However, after applying to UD, she was immediately accepted and started her path to become a diplomat in 1990. At that time, the studies of the program were interspersed with practice and in 1991 she graduated. She was happy living in Stockholm and was not in a hurry to apply for a posting abroad. The job at the Ministry in Stockholm was interesting, but in 1994 she took on her first posting at the Embassy in Windhoek, Namibia. Back then, it was possible to apply for your first post abroad after having completed the diplomatic program, today you are assigned to a specific position from the start. The year 1994 was the year when Nelson Mandela became the first democratically elected president of South Africa. This had a huge impact, not only in South Africa and on Namibia, but also nearby countries and it was internationally perceived as a major positive development. Anna Hammargren arrived in Namibia alone, no husband and no children, but it did not take too long before she met her husband to be, a Swede from her neighbor community in Sweden, working for SIDA, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. In 1998, the couple got married in Sweden, already proud parents of a son and second child was on the way. Today they have three children, two sons and one daughter, of which one of them is at present living in Florence/ Italy. All three of us, Anna, myself and ScandAsia photographer Daniel Herron, got into a discussion about what a beautiful city Florence is with its amazing architecture and food of course. When Anna’s husband got a posting as SIDA’s regional adviser on human rights in Kenya, Anna accompanied him, taking some years of career-break and fully enjoying the children.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 35

To be an Ambassador is fantastic in so many ways. You learn so much, and you have the best platform to promote your country’s interests. It is really a privilege to work as an ambassador.

Asking Anna what other profession she would have considered, if not taking the diplomatic course, she answered “Teaching!” In fact, she did work as a teacher for a year, as she had qualifications in both history and social studies. Another possible choice, she adds, would have been engineer and studies at KTH, The Royal Technical College in Stockholm. When the Kenya posting was over, Paris became Anna’s next destination. The family was less happy with that than Anna, but after some years they had all settled in very well. Anna served in different positions at the Embassy, advancing to be Deputy Head of Mission the last years. Her husband also found a job, at the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development).

36 ScandAsia • November 2023

“It was real fun to be No.2 at the Embassy in Paris, I enjoyed every minute. France is a fantastic and interesting country for a Swedish diplomat. We also found a very good family-solution so that my husband could continue his career.” In 2006 they all returned to Sweden. It had become increasingly important for Anna and her husband to see that the children could spend some years and make some friends in Sweden – even if they should one day choose to live somewhere else. In 2011 the longing for abroad became too strong and the family moved again, this time to Morocco where Anna was appointed Ambassador for the first time. “To be an Ambassador is fantastic in so many ways. You learn so much, and you have the best platform to promote your country’s interests. It is really a privilege to work as an ambassador,” Anna says. “At the Embassy here in Bangkok we promote, for example sustainability, which I really engage in. Sweden is, as most people know, very advanced in sustainability and I am very proud of Swedish politics here – and also of our Swedish companies. They are in the global lead when it comes to innovation and developing sustainable solutions in different sectors,” the Ambassador adds. What has been the most challenging issue/task in your career until now? “Well. A lot of things of course, but during my latest post in Stockholm, I served as Director General for Strategic and Crisis Management at the Ministry. There I was overall in charge of the Swedish evacuation from

Afghanistan in 2021.That was a very big responsibility and challenge,” she says. We also wanted to know, what the ambassador likes to do on a day off from work? “When I was in Sweden, I enjoyed being out in the nature, breath fresh air, hiking, horseback riding and in winter, skiing. That’s freedom to me and give me energy and strength,” Anna answered. “Here in Bangkok, on a non-working day, I will be out exploring this exciting, bustling city. I will go jogging in the Lumpini Park, taste the street food, that you find in every corner and which I really like.” As Anna has not been here for very long, she plans now to travel to visit all Honorary Consulates as well as pay a visit to Cambodia and Laos, as she is also responsible for those countries. “I will step by step learn and understand more of those countries and of the region as a whole.” Since she arrived, she has already visited Mae Sot, a city in western Thailand, close to the border with Myanmar and also Phitsanulok, in the lower part of northern Thailand.

“I have also been to the old, fascinating city of Ayutthaya. I am looking forward to exploring many other parts of Thailand. Before I moved here, I had been to Thailand as a tourist and in my job.” At the moment Anna is by herself here in Bangkok, but she is looking forward to her husband’s arrival in the beginning of next year, when he has concluded his job as Executive Director for the Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation. “My husband is a very good Chef and I hope we can try to learn some Thai cooking in the beautiful kitchen here. The apartment, my current residence, is fantastic and the view, 360 degrees, overlooking the Bangkok skyline, is breathtaking,” she adds. Ambassador Anna Hammargren showing the view from her apartment to Agneta de Bekassy. I can only wish Anna a joyful and interesting time as our new Ambassador to Thailand. It has been a while since we had a female Ambassador, so it is a nice change.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 37

Danish agricultural delegation visited Thailand A delegation from the Danish food and agriculture sector visited by the end of September and early October 2023 leading Thai companies to deepen close collaboration on sustainable food production.

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Business meetings at Charoen Pokphand (CP) Foods – Thailand’s biggest and Leading integrated agro-industrial and food conglomerate in the Asia Pacific region.

By Asta Alberte Kielgast he Embassy of Denmark in Thailand welcomed on 27 September 2023 a delegation from the Danish Agriculture & Council (DAFC) and Danish veterinar y and food administration together with 12 Danish livestock and food processing companies to Thailand. The week-long visit focused on the rising demand for health-conscious, safe, and high-quality food and production with minimal environmental impact across the entire food chain.

Ambassador, Jon Thorgaard, together wih Mr. Prasit Boondoungprasert, Chief Executive Officer at CPF.

The growing global demand for sustainable food and green environmentally friendly production and products underscores the need for collaboration between Denmark and Thailand. Both countries are leaders in the food industry. Thailand stands out as one of the world’s leading food and agricultural suppliers, and Denmark has a high efficient production with low greenhouse emissions. It is a trademark for Denmark with less input while increasing profits without compromising on quality. The Danish companies had great discussions with leading Thai companies within the food sector, including CP Foods,Thai Foods Group and Betagro Group, and the visit is expected to result in closer collaboration between Thailand and Denmark within the whole food value chain.

Highlights from the visit: Round table conference

18 Thai and Danish companies participated in a round table conference where they discussed innovative solutions and the challenges to increasing food production while minimizing resource usage and environmental impacts.

tration and the Danish Agriculture and Food Council to revitalize our Red Cow Diplomacy with Thailand. A donation made by VikingGenetics to Thailand of top-quality red cow embryos and semen from Denmark secures the future of the red cow in Thailand.

Approval of Danish beef in Thailand

Thailand’s Department of Livestock Promotion has approved eight slaughterhouses in Denmark to export beef and edible offal to Thailand. With this approval, Danish beef will soon be available in Thailand. The delegation consisted of Danish companies involved in the entire food value chain, with a specific focus on sustainable food processing, value addition, and increased efficiency across various sectors, including breeding and genetics, feed and feed additives, farm equipment and biosecurity, and food processing and laboratory technology, as well as infrastructure, cold storage, and transportation.

Return of the red cow to Thailand

The Danish Embassy visited DPO Thai-Denmark Milk together with the Danish Veterinary and Food AdminisNovember 2023 • ScandAsia 39

Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit almost jumped into the clean water in the harbour of Copenhagen. Photo by Disraporn Yatprom

Move Forward leader fell in love with Denmark One of the leaders of the political movement, Move Forward, was very impressed with the environmental solutions he saw in Denmark. By Gregers Møller Photos by Disraporn Yatprom

hanathorn Juangroongruangkit, one of the leaders of the Thai Move Forward Par ty, visited Denmark the last week of August and the first week of September 2023 – and fell completely in love with everything he learned about how the Danish society works. The Thai delegation had not been invited on a PR trip,Thanathorn said, but had paid all the expenses themselves. His group had, however, received valuable help from the Danish Institute for Parties and Democracy in arranging their meetings.They had visited the Danish Parliament, the waste incineration plant in Copenhagen, seen the waste collection system in Roskilde, the city center

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town planning in Odense, the harbour in Vordingborg, a modern Danish dairy farm, Hyllegaard, and several day care institutions for children aged 9 months to 2 years and 2 years to 6 years. A week after his return to Thailand, Thanathorn shared his enthusiasm for Denmark and the Danish society with members of the Move Forward party and the general public at a meeting at the SOL Bar & Bistro in Bangkok which was also live reported on Facebook in the evening of Friday 15 September 2023. Thanathorn, who is educated both in the UK and Switzerland, had decided to visit Denmark in order to study a well working democracy. He emphasized how the

Danish people are able to elect their leaders from the local municipal level and all the way up to the government. He liked the way ordinary people can walk in and attend meetings in the parliament or in the municipal council. He also liked the economic decentralization of Denmark that allows for each municipality to make their own decisions on how to use the tax payers’ money. Throughout the meeting, Thanathorn made comparisons between the way the Thai society works and the way things work in Denmark. “Can you imagine, if we could do like this in Thailand,” was one of his most frequent remarks throughout the two hour meeting. An example was the gap in Thailand between the six month maternity leave and the 2 year minimum age for enrolling in a Thai kindergarten. In Denmark, a child can be cared for in a municipal nursery from the moment the 9 month maternity leave is over, allowing the parents to go back to work. He was also impressed with the way municipalities had reclaimed streets from car traffic to bicycle and pedestrian use with a target of seeing 50 percent of the people using bicycles instead of private cars. Some motorcycles were seen, but they were not dominating and could only drive at max 40 km per hour, he explained. Former parking lots were turned into green spaces, not neatly trimmed parks, but to natural shrubbery and forest habitats. A photo from Odense showed a sign at a bicycle parking slot outside the City Hall with a sign saying “Reserved for the Mayor”. He was also impressed with the harbour of Copenhagen, which he compared to Klong Toey in Bangkok. The way the water was so clean that people could swim in the water and the harbour front was turned into a recreational space where people could sit and enjoy after work. He had been tempted, but admitted that he eventually abstained from trying to swim in the harbour himself. In all the cities they visited, they saw an abundance of

play grounds that were kept clean and inviting and were clearly popular among Danish families with children. “In Thailand, we take our children to the department store,” he compared. A main theme during the visit of the delegation to Denmark was sustainability in the waste collection system. The delegation visited the “Copenhagen Hill” waste incineration plant which has a unique design allowing for all year skiing from the top on a green plastic covered slope. The hill is actually a district heating plant, burning waste, but designed in a way that gives maximum public benefit. The participants in the meeting questioned whether it was really not smelly on the top, but Thanathorn explained that the visible emission was only pure steam. In Roskilde, they were shown how the separation of waste was carried out all the way from the home through the collection of garbage to the re-use of recyclables and the disposing of the remaining compostable waste. People were educated in detail on how to sort the garbage into many more classes of waste than the three we have in Thailand. As for bigger items like used furniture, replaced toilet ware, etc., the people were all well informed where they should dump these at dedicated sites – in contrast to Thailand where people didn’t know how to get rid of it and eventually dumped this kind of garbage on any empty land at night. Another fascination with the Danish way of governance, that Thanathorn shared with the participants, was the way a politically imposed return value on glass and plastic bottles had made people use the collection machines set up all over the city. All manufacturers had to add a return value of 1.50 kr. – about 8 baht – to their products. When the consumer deposited the empty bottle in a collection machine, the 1.50 kroner was returned to the consumer. “Can you imagine, if we could do like this in Thailand?” he asked again.

FACT

T Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit explaining about the garbage separation collection system in Denmark. Photo by Disraporn Yatprom.

hanathorn Juangroongruangkit was the leader of the Future Forward Party, which was surprisingly popular in the election in 2019. Afraid of the progressive and reformist policies of the party, the junta appointed judiciary dissolved the party and banned Thanathorn from participating in politics for a period of ten years. The party immediately re-established itself as Move Forward party under the leadership of Pita Limjaroenrat and in the election earlier this year, the party returned with an even higher mandate – only to be outmaneuvered once again and cut off by the conservative Thai establishment.

November 2023 • ScandAsia 41

News brief

First Nordic Run in Bangkok a success

he four Nordic Ambassadors and the Bangkok Governor motivating the runners before the start of the first Nordic Run in Bangkok. Around 600 spor ty Thai and Nordic people joined on Sunday 29 October 2023 the first Nordic Run, organized jointly by all the Nordic embassies in Thailand. The embassies had quickly sold out all the 500 participants, which the Benjakitti Park had allowed as the maximum number. But many who couldn’t register came to run anyway – ScandAsia being one of them. The run star ted and ended behind the Queen Sirikit Convention Center in Bangkok where the sponsors had established booths in a horse shoe shape with a stage in

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the deep end. The sponsors where AstraZeneca, Autoliv, Ecco, Jotun, Kone, Linak, Novo Nordisk, Polar, SuperBakril, Tetra Pak and Valmet. All of them were prominently displayed on the back of all the running shirts. The run star ted with shor t messages from the four Nordic ambassadors who were joined on the stage by Bangkok Governor Chadchar t Sittipunt. Then there was a warmup session before the run star ted at exactly 7.00. The route was five kilometers – which many of the younger participants ran twice to make it ten kilometers. The run was not a race for time and there were no medals and winners – it was a race to showcase the Nordic way of life with a healthy dose of exercise. After the run, there we cookies

from Landmark, sausage-buns from Fyns Baker y, water from TetraPak and bananas for all to replenish the energy. A few days later, a 7-minute long official after-video of the Nordic Run 2023 was published by the Embassy of Finland in Bangkok on its Facebook page.

https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=BBO0REhJBNs&t=8s