100% INDONESIA

Is Noordin M Top Still Alive...?

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 19:20:13 PDT

The certainty of man suspected of terrorist leader Noordin M Top, finally clear. The DNA tests show that a Militant killed in a weekend raid was not Noordin Mohammed Top. Police confirm that the man who died in the village Beji, District Kedu, Temanggung, Central Java, not Noordin M Top, but Ibrahim aka Boim. Description submitted by the official Indonesian police, yesterday (12/8).

The chief of the National Police Headquarters` public relations division, Insp Gen Nanan Soekarna also explain the role of Ibrahim in blasting bombs in the JW Marriot and the Ritz Charlton (17/7. He worked as a Playground for employees' interest in the Ritz Carlton Hotel and was suspected to be ready to conduct suicide bombing at the residence of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in Puri Cikeas, Bogor. "He is ready to be expressed with a car bomb and bomb vest," said Nanan.

"He is very important role in the detonation of two hotel. He is the main actors and the set of all blasting, "said Nanan. Noordin M Top is estimated to have some time to meet with him to do the meeting in order detonation in the Housing and Puri Nusaphala Prapatan Mampang in South Jakarta.

Is terror in Indonesia will continue to be? As a Muslim we hope that Indonesia will be safe from all dangers and threats. Be fundamentalists for ourselves, strive for ourselves, and do not injure others. As good citizens we must be dutiful to our leaders, loyal to our country, maintaining the security of our country.

Visit Indonesian Year 2009 (Sanur Village Festival 2009)

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:37:32 PDT

Bali's 4th Sanur Village Festival August 12-16, 2009, is shaping up to be bigger and better, inspired by its declared theme of "Life Marine."This year's event will be centered on a new four-hectare beachside venue on Jalan Mertasari to accommodate a full range of entertainment, culinary and other events.

Cultural and Water-based Activities

Cultural activities will continue to dominate this year's festival via a series of traditional arts performances, parades, live music, water sports and a non-stop food festival. Included in the celebration this August will be a numerouus sub-aqua events aimed at protecting and preserving Bali's coral reef.

Culinary Temptations

A total of thirty booths will participate in this year's 4th Sanur Village Festival presenting the wide range of food and drink available to Sanur visitors throughout the year. And, as in past years, prizes will be awarded to the booth presenting the best food with the best booth decoration.

Celebrating the Arts

Sanur has always been a preferred "home" for Bali's artists, both of the local and imported variety. In recognition of this fact, an extensive arts program will celebrate the best of local paintings and sculptures through a series of exhibitions and street-art presentations.

Sports Activities

Also on tap for this year's Sanur Village Festival will be a full schedule of sporting events. Sporting enthusiasts will have the chance to watch the Asian Beach Rugby Championship, street ball and a new event – the Sanur Quadrathon comprised of cycling, running, swimming and canoeing.

source: google, Indonesia.travel

Bomb blast in Jakarta

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 01:00:26 PDT

Two Explosions in Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott Hotels in Mega Kuningan area, Jakarta, early Friday (17/7), killed at least six people and tens of others were injured, but the number of the victims might change as identification process is still going on.

Meanwhile, Manchester United who have been scheduled to fight with the Indonesian All Stars in the Gelora Bung Karno, canceled to come. Hotel Ritz Carlton selected as the place to stay MU, and Indonesian All Stars team will stay at the Mariott Hotel.

President SBY speech-related cases in the bombing of 2 hotels

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Obituary: Natalia Estemirova

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:28:33 PDT

Famous human rights activists of Russia, Natalia Estemirova, rapt in Chechnya on Wednesday and found shot dead in the forest area in the North Caucasus. We are very sad over her death and hope that the murderer could be arrested immediately.

Her work for the Russian human rights group Memorial latterly focused on alleged human rights violations by government-backed militias. Such was her importance as a regional expert that her office in the Chechen capital Grozny became the first stop for many visiting journalists, BBC Moscow correspondent Rupert Wingfield-Hayes recalls. Of mixed Russian-Chechen parentage, Ms Estemirova told the BBC in a 2007 interview that she felt she could understand both peoples. Asked if she ever felt her life was in danger, she said her dedication to her work overrode her fears.

Emblematic moral figure

Born in the south Russian province of Saratov, she graduated in history from Grozny University and was teaching history in a school in the city until 1998, according to Memorial. She began reporting on human rights abuses and when the second Chechen War started in 1999, she documented civilian casualties.

Joining Memorial in 2000, when she moved temporarily to neighbouring Ingushetia, she continued investigating civilian casualties in Chechnya, notably in the villages of Novye Atagy in March 2000 and Rigakha in April 2004.

In January 2005, a group of MEPs in the European Parliament awarded the Robert Schuman Medal to both her and Sergei Kovalyov, chairman of Memorial.

In their citation, the MEPs said: "A large part of the Chechen society sees Natalia as an emblematic moral figure in the non-violent Chechen resistance.

"Far from political passions, she is, above all, devoted to helping victims of violence."

In October 2007, Ms Estemirova was awarded the inaugural Anna Politkovskaya award from the Reach All Women in War campaign group.

That award had been established after the killing of Politkovskaya - a journalist who sought to uncover human rights abuses in Chechnya - outside her home in Moscow in 2006.

source: BBC

The faster the better

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 22:42:17 PDT

Popularity of presidential candidate Jusuf Kalla-wiranto (JK-Win) increased in mid-June 2009 period compared to May 2009. JK-Win’s popularity increased by 4.83 percent to 17.20 percent last week, up from 12.37 percent last month, a survey says. The Policy and Development Strategy Research Center (Puskaptis) said survey found that the popularity of the Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono-Boediono pair and the Megawati Soekarnoputri-Prabowo Subianto duo had dropped by 5.24 percent from around 57 percent and 2.09 percent from 24 percent respectively.

Perhaps, this proves that the message delivered by JK-Win, the faster the better, successful.

Vision and mission
Commitment of all the candidates related problems of unemployment and poverty has not been seen clearly and firmly, especially about the welfare of the people.

On security issues, we must update the military equipment that is capable of maintaining the mainland and Indonesian archipelago. And how to improving the welfare of soldiers and their families are also the most important things that must be considered by the next leader.

Irrawaddy Doplhins nearly extinct

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 21:55:49 PDT

Sumatran elephants, orangutans, eagle and other rare animals more endangered due to hunting and also damage of the protected forest. In fact, animal and human conflict doesn’t only happening in indonesia. According to international conservation groups, dolphins Mekong River in Phnom Penh, Vietnam, is nearly extinct. WWF says, only 64 of 76 Irrawaddy dolphins was in the Mekong River, after the level of toxic pesticides, mercury and other pollutant found in more than 50 calves that died since 2003.

WWF are currently investigating how the contamination to the environment has been overrun Mekong, through a stream of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and China's southern province, Yunan. The Organization suspected that high-level findings of mercury in some fish of a dolphins death comes from gold mining activities. WWF adds that Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) in Cambodia and Laos are requiring health programs to prevent the impact of pollution on their immune system.

Marriage among the small population that can also bolster the weak immun system of dolphin that died young. All that happens in the child's dolphin is new under the age of two weeks.

Irrawaddy dolphin Mekong River, occupy the region 190 kilometers (118 miles) in Cambodia and Laos, have been recorded in the condition of critical danger since 2004, said WWF.

Thousands of Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River caughted by illegal fishing nets, although the river is considered as sacred place in Cambodia and Laos. Layer of fat porpoise is used as a lubricant for the engine-and fuel lamps.

also read: sumatran elephant

Suramadu Bridge

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 21:17:13 PDT

The Suramadu Bridge, also known as the Surabaya–Madura Bridge, also known as jembatan Suramadu, is a bridge with three cable-stayed sections constructed between Surabaya on the island of Java and the town of Bangkalan on the island of Madura in Indonesia. Opened on June 10, 2009, the 5.4-km bridge is the longest in Indonesia and the first bridge to cross the Madura Strait.

Began Wednesday (17 / 6) at 00.00 WIB, all road users who travel on the Suramadu Bridge must pay the toll rates according to conditions. In addition to operational Suramadu vehicle, all vehicles travel in the bridge must pay toll.

Here are toll rates applicable in suramadu:

1. Class I (sedan, jeep, pickup / small truck and bus) Rp 30.000
2. Class II, 2 axle trucks Rp 45.000
3. Class III, 3 axle truck Rp 60.000
4. Class IV, 4 axle truck Rp 75.000
5. Class V, 5 axle truck or more Rp 90.000
6. motorcycle (class VI) Rp3.000.

source/image:
wikipedia/google

Sail Bunaken 2009 [Visit Indonesia Year 2009]

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:41:18 PDT

The international event Sail Bunaken 2009 will held on August 12 – 20 and take place in Manado, North Sulawesi. I agree with the words of the governor sulawesi, this event will be bigger than Bunaken Festival. Sail Bunaken 2009 bring around thousands sailors from all over the world, and might be record breaking to be participated in by more than 1,500 divers. On this event there are parades of the world's best fleet and a Darwin to Manado yacht rally, and also include a sailing pass, a fly pass, a city parade, seminar, an admiral dinner, water sports, traditional sports, a crew party, tourism and recreation, a cultural performance, and a food gathering of ship crew members.

The Sail Bunaken 2009 is aimed at strengthening seamen brotherhood and international relations, as well as promoting North Sulawesi as a gate of East Asia. Foreign participants are also expected to be able to see the beautiful scenery of North Sulawesi`s sea, especially Bunaken National Marine Park [the Bunaken National Marine Park, one of the world`s best of its kind, covers a total surface area of 89,065 hectares, 97% of which is overlain by sparkling clear, warm tropical water].

The Sail Bunaken will be the largest maritime event ever organized in Asia because it will involve 24 warships, 150 sail boats, and cruise ships from 26 countries. The warship parade will be participated in by among other things USS George Washington, one of the world`s largest aircraft carriers, with around 5,000 crew members on board.

Sail Bunaken 2009 is jointly organized by the Ministry of Marine and Fishery Affairs, Provincial Administration of North Sulawesi, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and Navy Force of Indonesia, supported by the The Directorate General of Immigration and other government institutions.

Information and Registration

Secretariat for the Regional Plan of Action to Promote Responsible Fishing Practices including combating IUU fishing in the Region:

Mina Bahari II Building, 15th floor
Jl. Medan Merdeka Timur 16, Jakarta 11010, Indonesia
Phone : +6221 352 3151
Fax : +6221 352 0346
Email : rpoa@dkp.go.id
Website : www.rpoa_sec.dkp.go.id

Contact Person
Mr. Ardi mobile: +62 8588 0267 419 email: rpoa_operator@yahoo.com
Mrs. Ratih mobile:+62 818 0624 8773 / +62 814 103 100 14 email: privacy_of79@yahoo.com

OR please open sailbunaken2009

image: anaksemeru.blogspot

Bali host the 9th International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 21:35:06 PDT

Bali -Indonesia- will host the 9th International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP) – the biggest congress on HIV and AIDS in the region from 9 - 13 August 2009. Approximately 3,000 delegates from 51 Asian and 14 Pacific countries are expected to attend this congress. The theme of the 9th ICAAP is “Empowering People, Strengthening Networks” to support a vibrant community of empowered people, all across Asia and the Pacific, to mobilize a holistic and more effective response to the cross-border challenges of today’s HIV pandemic.

The Local Organizing Committee Chair, Prof. Dr. Zubairi Djoerban, Sp.PD-KHOM, who is also the Chair of the Indonesian AIDS Society (Masyarakat Peduli AIDS Indonesia), said “we recognise that ICAAP is the second largest AIDS forum in the world and are grateful for the confidence in Indonesia to host this important meeting. We are inspired by the decision and will work hard to assure that the congress activities will advance regional efforts to respond effectively to the challenge of HIV and AIDS today and in the future.”

Mr. JVR Prasada Rao, Director, Regional Support Team, Asia and the Pacific, Joint United Nations Program on AIDS (UNAIDS), added, “the 9th ICAAP promises to be an even better and bigger conference than previous ICAAPs. There will be evidence-based discussion on whether Universal Access can be an achievable goal by 2010 for many countries in Asia and the Pacific. Every facet of the epidemic and the region’s responses are featured in the wide array of session and activities.”

The congress will take place at the Bali International Convention Centre (BICC) in Nusa Dua, and is scheduled to be officially opened on 9 August by the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Mr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, in a ceremony at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park.

ICAAP is a biennial gathering for the release and discussion of scientific, programmatic and policy developments in the global response to HIV/AIDS and is convened by AIDS Society of Asia and the Pacific (ASAP). In his message to the 9th ICAAP, Professor Myung-Hwan Cho, President of ASAP said that “Indonesia has been given the opportunity to take bold and innovative steps n support of the regional response to HIV and AIDS. Countries of Asia and other regions will be waiting to see Indonesia take the lead.”

According to the Independent Commission on AIDS in Asia (2008), AIDS remains the most likely cause of death and loss of work days among people aged 15 to 44. The number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Asia in 2007 is an estimated 5 million, with a number of new infections (380,000) comparatively speaking equal to the number of people who died from AIDS-related illnesses (380,000). In Oceania an estimated 740,000 people were living with HIV in 2007 of which 13,000 were new infections.

Reaching the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) on HIV and AIDS requires all member countries to halt and reverse the spread of the epidemic by 2015; this includes the Universal Access target of 2010 whereby all those who need treatment should also receive it, and the urgency to strengthen each country’s health system to ensure effective delivery of services and response.

Mr Rao continued, “what is really impressive is that the conference will showcase the immense progress made by community groups, working together and in partnership with government and other partners, in spearheading the response in many countries in the Asia Pacific region.”

Similar to previous ICAAPs, sessions will be divided into Plenary Sessions where distinguished researchers, community leaders and policy specialists share the latest information and experiences; 24 symposia on topics such as addressing legal barriers and criminalization of at-risk populations, and a leadership session for delegates from the Pacific region; 64 oral sessions on topics related to prevention, care support and treatment of HIV and AIDS, understanding socio-cultural, economic and political determinants in the AIDS response, and on leadership.

Besides these, 32 skills-building workshops will also be held to help delegates improve various skills that can apply to their daily work; Satellite Meetings and Exhibitions showcase the efforts of civil society and the private sector in the response to HIV and AIDS.

Distinguished guest speakers will include Michel Sidibe, UNAIDS Executive Director; Michel Kazatchkine, Director of the Global Fund for AIDS, TB and Malaria (GFATM); Kyung-Wha Kang, UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights; Dr Nafiz Sadik, Special Envoy for AIDS in Asia and the Pacific; Myung Hwan Cho, President of AIDS Society of Asia and Pacific (ASAP) and representatives from Seven Sisters, Asia Pacific Network of People Living with HIV (APN+), Asia Pacific Network of Sex Workers (APNSW), CARAM Asia, Asian Harm Reduction Network (AHRN), APCASO, APN Rainbow.

A Community Forum will also take place before the congress on 7–8 August , where various communities each have their own conference to identify and share common issues and experiences. Seven communities will be represented including people living with HIV (PLHIV); Injecting Drug Users (IDU); Interfaith; Men who have sex with Men (MSM) and Transgender; Sex Workers; Women, including Lesbians; and Youth.

The Asia-Pacific Village will be a friendly, fun and colourful venue to celebrate the region’s diversity, with arts and music performances, small group discussions, informal education activities, and regional stalls selling handicrafts and snacks made by people living with and affected by HIV and AIDS. The Asia-Pacific Village will be open to the general public.

Prior to the official opening ceremony on 9 August, a high-level meeting of AIDS Ambassadors will be held, co-hosted by the First Lady and National AIDS Ambassador, Mrs. Ani Bambang Yudhoyono, and AIDS Ambassador of Australia, Murray Proctor. The AIDS Ambassador’s Meeting will address the role of AIDS Ambassadors in the region in mobilizing greater action and accountability for the response.

For more information, please contact:

Public Information Officer: Ristya Paramita
Ph. 62-21-39838845/46 - Email. ristya.paramita@icaap9.org

Congress Coordinator: Elis Widen
Ph. 62-21-39838845/46 - Email. elis.widen@icaap9.org

Pacto Convex: Ika Nazaruddin
Ph - Email. Ika.nazar@cbn.net.id

source: www.icaap9.org

Elephant and human conflict (4 Elephants found dead)

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 20:48:19 PDT

Four Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) found dead in lampung. Two elephants found dead female aged about 20 years, and one small elephant tails age of five years. One other elephants found dead in a charred burnt. According to the Conservation of Natural Resources (BKSDA), they found evidence of poison deliberately be smeared on the palm tree. This incident occurred because the elephant and human conflict.

The Jakarta Post wrote, Wild Sumatran elephants from the Way Kambas National Park (TNWK) have destroyed hundreds of hectares of rice and other crops in several villages in the three districts of Labuhan Ratu, Way Jepara and Purbolinggo, in East Lampung Regency. The attacks caused panic among local residents as the animals strayed in to residential areas. Labuhan Ratu Ruslani resident, 40, said Wednesday that Villagers were frightened because previously some had been stomped to death by raging elephants.

Director of the Indonesian Forum for the Environment’s (Walhi) Lampung branch said environmental damage in the elephants’ habitats through rampant illegal logging was behind the attacks. “We can’t just blame the elephants. They wouldn’t do this if their habitat was still intact”.

image: google

SBY inaugurate Suramadu bridge

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:03:33 PDT

There was a demonstration for 3 minutes before President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono inaugurate Suramadu bridges. According to the news, demonstrations are conducted by SRMI (Serikat Rakyat Miskin Indonesia). Thank to police who have been successfully disperse the action.

Security situation during a ceremony is very strict. From the traffic to the official announcement, is also a very strict examination of the invitation. As a result, going long queue [invitation was around 6500 people].

To go to a tent ceremony in the Village Sekar Bungo, District Labang Bangkalan, each person is examined under strict metal detectors, including the default item. Even lighter and the cigarette were taken by officers. No exception cameraman, photographer, reporter equipment documentation required to be examined first. This also resulted in long queue.

With the speed of 40 km / hour, a motorcycle rider will feel more relaxed and comfortable. In addition they can easily control the speed when the wind on the sea temperature is high.

Air France missing

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:47:46 PDT

Airbus 330-200 aircraft type numbered flight 447 that carries 228 passengers and crew, each of 216 passengers and 12 crew, lost in the journey from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to Charles de Gaulle airport, Paris. It left Rio de Janeiro, Sunday at 19:00 local time, and will arrive in Paris, Monday at 11:15 local time (around 16:15 WIB).

Air France announced that victims aboard flight 447 missing over the Atlantic came from 32 countries; 2 American, 1 Argentine, 1 Austrian, 1 Belgian, 58 Brazilians, 5 British, 1 Canadian, 9 Chinese, 1 Croat, 1 Danish, 1 Dutch, 1 Estonian, 61 French, 1 Gambian, 25 Germans, 4 Hungarians, 3 Irish, 1 Icelander, 9 Italians, 5 Lebanese, 2 Morrocans, 3 Norwegians, 1 Philippino, 2 Polish, 1 Romanian, 1 Russian, 2 Spanish, 3 Slovakians, 1 Swede, 1 South African, 6 Swiss and 1 Turk.

The location of the last aircraft is not known at this time. Anything that will happen later we hope that all passengers and aircraft in the brisk conditions.

Indonesia could get $20 billion from protecting forests

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Tue, 26 May 2009 21:12:38 PDT

by Adianto P. Simamora / The Jakarta Post

With the third largest area of forests in the world, Indonesia could rake in billions of dollars every year from a future carbon market by curbing the rate of deforestation, a climate expert from Greenpeace said. Paul Winn, a forest and climate campaigner from Greenpeace Australia-Pacific, said developed nations were waiting for Indonesia to impose a moratorium on logging before shelling out the money.

“Indonesia could generate roughly US$20 billion annually from market-linked fund mechanisms,” Paul told reporters at a weekly press briefing Tuesday. He said the funding would come from developed countries like the United States, which has channelled money to countries like Papua New Guinea and Brazil under the same scheme. Under the market-linked fund system, the money would not directly offset emissions in developed nations. “The reductions funded are in addition to those made by developed nations, so leakage does not risk increasing net global emissions,” he said.

Greenpeace tabled its proposal of a Tropical Deforestation Emission Reduction Mechanism (TDERM) at the Bali climate change meeting in 2007. The mechanism is applicable for developing countries affected by deforestation regardless of their ability to combat it. The TDERM gathers funding for its forest protection efforts from the mandatory minimum contributions given by developed nations to meet their emission reduction obligations.

The proceeds from the sale of the Tropical Deforestation Emission Reduction Units (TDERUs) will be used by the TDERM to reward reductions in emissions from participating developing countries and provide a reliable source of funding to curb deforestation.

Tropical forests contribute to around 20 percent of global carbon emissions and are a major cause of damage to biodiversity. Nations worldwide have adopted a new mechanism for reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation (REDD) as an alternative to simply cutting emissions from the forestry sector.

If the climate conference in Copenhagen in December approves the REDD, Indonesia, with about 120 million hectares of forests, can expect to reap a massive financial incentive from the carbon market. Greenpeace has repeatedly called on Indonesia to impose a moratorium to stop deforestation, which destroys around 1 million hectares each year.

Last week, Greenpeace submitted a petition signed by around 60,000 “forest defenders” to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, urging him to order a moratorium be imposed. According to Greenpeace, at least half of the 150 million hectares of forests in Indonesia have been destroyed, partly due to overlapping forest concessions and areas set aside for conservation.

Campaign in pictures

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:48:39 PDT

There are many activities that the political parties to take the public sympathy. For example, provide free health services, provide food for poor people, free entertainment, and many more. But remember, during the implementation of the campaign, the volume of waste in Jakarta increased. It would have parties on political parties to inform the supporting to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the city during the campaign.

Besides, in the campaigns of some parties still have seen children who participate in it. In fact there're rules that prohibit children to be involved in this activity. And there's still one of the party supporters who don't use a helmet during a parade with a motorcycle.

How the campaign in your region?
picture clockwise: Gerindra, Democrat, PDP, PDI-P, PKS, PBB

Asia's first Buddha Bar under attack in Indonesia

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 21:28:18 PDT

It wants to set new standards in chic for the sons and daughters of Indonesia's elite, but instead Asia's first Buddha Bar has become embroiled in an ugly row over religion and alleged corruption.

The plush lounge bar and restaurant featuring a huge statue of Bhuddha is fighting calls for its closure less than three months since its grand opening in a renovated Dutch colonial-era building in central Jakarta.

The plush lounge bar and restaurant featuring a huge statue of Bhuddha is fighting calls for its closure less than three months since its grand opening in a renovated Dutch colonial-era building in central Jakarta.

The bar is the scene of almost weekly protests from enraged Buddhists as it struggles, in the words of the Paris-based chain's website, to "conquer the hearts" of the "local beautiful people".

Lawyers for the Buddhists' Anti-Buddha Bar Forum have filed a police complaint alleging the business is insulting their religion, one of the five constitutionally recognised faiths in the mainly Muslim country.

"For us, Buddha is our revered teacher. But for them, Buddha is a decoration and the worst thing is the statues are in such an indecent place," protest coordinator Eko Nugroho said, as Buddhists symbolically "sealed" the bar closed during a demonstration in February.

The bar is decorated like a shrine to exoticism. Buddha images peer from almost every wall and the five-metre (15-foot) statue of a golden sitting Buddha -- something usually only seen in sacred temples in this part of the world -- gazes over the main dining area.

"This franchise could never open in Malaysia, Singapore or Thailand. Its opening in Jakarta is really an insensitive decision," Nugroho said, blaming the government for approving the business licence.

Having aggravated the country's Buddhist minority, the bar is also caught up calls from anti-corruption activists for a probe into alleged conflicts of interest and abuse of power.

Suspicions are swirling around millions of dollars in public money that was spent renovating the old immigration building before it was offered by the city council for commercial lease.

The bar is co-owned by the wealthy daughters of former president Megawati Sukarnoputri and the ex-governor of Jakarta, Sutiyoso, who reportedly ordered the renovations.

"There could be a conflict of interest. Officials need to investigate whether their permits and documents are in line with procedure," Indonesian Corruption Watch coordinator Agus Sunaryanto said.

"The Jakarta administration allocated 30 billion rupiah (2.52 million dollars) to renovate the historic building. Initially, the renovation fund was one billion rupiah but the administration decided to allocate more."

The daughters and the bar's managers have refused to comment, but French entrepreneur Raymond Visan, whose George V Eatertainment group is the Buddha Bar's parent company, says the Jakarta franchise has done nothing wrong.

The bar is being caught up in local politics ahead of elections in April and July, he said.

"It's linked to the elections and the interests of certain people because, as you know, the (owners) are the daughters of Megawati and the former governor of Jakarta," he told AFP from Paris.

As for the Buddhists, he said they needed to, well, chill out.

"We have no intention of changing the name or removing the statues. It's common to find Buddhas in restaurants -- they bring good luck," he said, adding he was ready to travel to Jakarta to meet the Buddhists.

Sunardjo Sumargono, a lawyer for the Anti-Buddha Bar Forum, said it wasn't just the Buddhist minority that was angry but people from other religions as well, with Muslims starting to join the protests out of solidarity.

"What's next? A Mohammad Bar, a Jesus Bar?" he asked. "Please don't use religion like this, it's a very sensitive issue."

The first Buddha Bar appeared in Paris in the mid-1990s. Indonesia is the fourth mainly Muslim country to get one, after Egypt, Lebanon and Dubai. So far none has been established in a Buddhist-majority country.

Visan said plans are afoot to open a Buddha Bar in Beijing, and the company has "projects" in Singapore where the authorities had approved the brand name, as well as Hong Kong and Japan.

He denied rumours that the authorities in Buddhist Thailand had refused permission for the opening of a Buddha Bar in Bangkok, saying no such request had been made.

"We sell some discs there," he added, referring to the "Buddha Bar" series of exotic music CDs, the 11th of which came out earlier this month. The company is also branching out into expensive spa treatments, dubbed "Buddhattitude".

Muslims make up roughly 90 percent of Indonesia's 234 million-strong population, but the constitution also recognises the country's Christian, Hindu, Buddhist and Confucian minorities.

source: msn.com
image: google

A Quiet Campaign

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 23:32:33 PDT

Legislative campaign looks very quiet. In several strategic areas , there is no parade in the streets or seen people gathered in the field to listening the promises of the legislative candidates. Only seen a lot of party flag installed in various places. Although General Elections Commission (KPU) has to share the campaign, some locations still look deserted.

The first weekend, a political party in the group 1 do a campaign in zone I, group 2 in zone II and group 3 in the zone III. Next weekend, a political party in the group 1 should be campaigning in the zone III, group 2 campaigning in the zone I, and group 3 campaigning in the zone II. For the third weekend, back to the early formation and so on.

The condition of legislative election 2009 is very different than the previous years. In 2004, almost part of the city of Jakarta will look red when one of the parties to parade in the streets, or Jakarta will be seen to be yellow, green or blue. As a democratic party, enthusiastic people in the election looks very decreased. Why? Is this due to weakened economic conditions. There is no money then there is no mass. A group of people may be ready to campaign if they are paid Rp 50.000,- 100.000,- / person. Actually, not all legislative candidates came from the rich. Even if they have money to give to their supporters, they will be afraid to allegations of money politics.

Nevertheless, Don’t wasted your rights and let people know, how the campaign in your region?...

The Campaign

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 22:25:17 PDT

The election campaign will take place starting 15 March 2009. Every day the condition of roads in Jakarta has been seriously injured by traffic jams, I can’t imagine how the road condition at the time of the campaign progress. Certainly the situation will be very chaotic, not only on the main road, the suburbs are also affected.

The General Elections Commission (KPU) must set the schedule and location of the campaign. To avoid friction occurs between party supporters, only four or five political party campaigning is allowed (in Jakarta there are 38 political parties).

Police must act coherently the campaign that inconsiderate on the roads and in violation of regulations. Areas that are considered vulnerable should have extra care. As a citizen I hope the campaign can be run safely, smoothly and the police must respond quickly if there is a provocateur who tried to act.

As previous experience, collision occurs when the campaign ends. With all the whimsy and style of each participant in the parade around the city before they go home. At the time it's often clash with other party supporters.

Leaders of the parties have agreed to campaign peacefully. But at the grassroots that pledge doesn't apply. Usually begins with a mock each other, throwing stones and bottles each other, if not quickly prevented the collision cannot be avoided. A thing like this is that the people concerned. Therefore, the police must be ready to give security and do not only focus on the location of the campaign but also in the streets.

image: islamonline.net

Singapore Favorites City For Expatriates

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 01:34:33 PDT

Good infrastructure and healthcare facilities, low crime and health risks, and decent air quality contribute to Singapore providing the best quality of living for Asian and European expatriates. For the 10th year running, Singapore has come in top city and beat 253 other cities, including Australia's Sydney and Melbourne and Japan's Tokyo, Yokohama, Kobe, and its also beat KongHong due to its air quality.

New Delhi stayed in 37th place, partly because the air quality there is particularly bad. That puts it behind Hanoi (17), Colombo (32) and even Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia (34).

Bangkok's ranking fell to 9th from 8th place after political unrest late last year caused street protests and the closure of Bangkok's international airport for several days. Bringing up the tail were Baghdad in Iraq, Kabul in Afghanistan, Karachi in Pakistan and Port-au-Prince in Haiti. These were the least desirable locations for expatriates due to a lack of suitable facilities and high personal security risks, said ECA.

Top 12 locations for Asian expatriates: (last year's rankings in brackets)
1. Singapore (1)
2. Kobe, Japan (2)
3. Yokohama, Japan (3)
4. Tokyo (5)
5. Hong Kong (4)
6. Taipei (6)
7. Macau (7)
8. Kuala Lumpur (9)
9. Bangkok (8)
10. Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia (9)
11. Shanghai(11)
12. Seoul(12)

Transjakarta busway corridor VIII launched

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 22:10:54 PST

Finally, Transjakarta corridor VIII is launched. It is connecting Lebak Bulus and Harmoni. This corridor is expected to offer a speedy commuter alternative through the heavily trafficked areas of Pasar Jumat, Pondok Indah and Tomang Raya. Unfortunately, for a while it only ply until Tomang Raya because there's some infrastructure need to be repaired. Passengers going for Harmoni from Lebak Bulus would have to stop at Indosiar, Jelambar or Grogol 2 shelter to move to Corridor III buses heading the same direction.

By the way, this corridor was supposed to be launched last week, but Transjakarta management had to delay the launch for several preparation troubles.

Today (21/2) Transjakarta busway corridor VII will be starting at 13:00 to 22.00 WIB, and the next day it will be the same as the other starting at 05.00 to 22:00 WIB. There are 24 shelters that will be passed by the corridor VII;

1. Terminal Lebak Bulus
2. Pondok Pinang
3-4. Pondok Indah 1 & 2
5. Tanah Kusir Kodim
6. Kebayoran Lama Bungur
7. Pasar Kebayoran Lama
8. Simprug
9. Permata Hijau
10. Permata Hijau RS Medika
11. Pos Pengumben
12. Kelapa Dua Sasak
13. Kebun Jeruk
14. Duri Kepa
15. KEdoya Assiddiqiyah
16. Kedoya Green Garden
17. Indosiar
18. Jelambar
19. Grogol 2
20. Tomang
21. Tomang Mandala
22. RS Tarakan
23. Petojo
24. Harmoni

Proud To Be Indonesian

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:59:30 PST

Beberapa waktu lalu, dalam beberapa email yang saya terima menanyakan penggunaan bahasa Inggris dalam blog yang saya kelola, 100% Indonesia. Saya sempat berpikir sejenak, kenapa ya saya harus menggunakan bahasa Inggris yang sebenarnya tidak saya kuasai 100% dan bukan bahasa saya sehari-hari. Jujur saja, awalnya saya memang takut kalau ada pengunjung yang protes karena penggunaan bahasa Inggris saya yang blepotan, tapi entah kenapa saya tetap pede saja. Waktu itu saya pikir, “ah, yang penting mereka mengerti maksud yang saya tulis”.

Menulis dalam bahasa asing [bahasa Inggris, red] apalagi dalam blog yang bisa dibaca semua orang, berbagai lapisan dari seluruh dunia, memang perlu keberanian. Berani menulis, harus berani pula dikritik. Selain itu ada juga keuntungannya, seperti bisa menjadi partner iklan Google, Adbrite, Amazon, dll, yang tentu saja mendapat imbalan. Jika isi blog yang kita sajikan menarik bisa saja ada media yang memberikan tawaran sebagai kontributor mereka.

Apakah dengan menulis dalam bahasa asing berarti tidak cinta Indonesia? Itu salah besar. “I am proud to be Indonesian”. Orang luar mungkin tahunya orang Indonesia bego-bego, tidak bisa apa-apa, Indonesia negara teroris, dll. Nah, dengan kita menulis berita di blog dalam bahasa Inggris, kita berharap mereka akan sadar bahwa orang Indonesia tidak bisa dipandang sebelah mata. Justru kita tunjukkan pada mereka bahwa kita berwawasan luas, tidak gatek, kita bisa dengan mudah memberikan informasi yang benar tentang negara kita, sekaligus mempromosikan Indonesia kepada dunia internasional. Kalau orang Betawi bilang “Jangan anggap enteng gue ya...”

Saat melancong ke suatu tempat, dengan sangat hati-hati saya bertanya pada penduduk lokal dengan menggunakan bahasa Inggris. Tapi justru dia yang mengajak saya bicara dalam bahasa Indonesia. “Orang Indonesia? Saya mau memperlancar bahasa Indonesia saya”. Dalam hati saya berkata, lho...?! ternyata bisa bahasa Indonesia.

Saran saya, jangan malu dan jangan takut salah menulis dalam bahasa Inggris. Akan ada orang yang akan membantu kita. Belajar terus maka kita akan terbiasa menggunakannya. Selamat mencoba :)

Caution Against the Virus Exanthem Subitum

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 01:38:12 PDT

Recognize symptoms of disease in your children. If your child is exposed to high fever (39–40°C) for 3 days, and a red spot appears in the body, check to the doctor immediately. This happened with my niece, Nauradita ramadhani (4 years old), we suspect she was exposed to dengue fever but we’re wrong. From the blood test results the doctor said that she is exposed to the virus exanthema subitum. Symptoms are similar to dengue fever which is decreasing red blood cell and high fever (39–40 °C).

Children will be fussy when a high fever and will be back to normal when the fever down and then will arise reddish skin rash (erupsi macula and maculapapular). This usually begins on the trunk, spreading to the legs and neck. The rash is not itchy (but some have a little itchy) and may last 1 to 2 days. In contrast, a child suffering from measles would usually appear more infirm, with symptoms of conjunctivitis and a cough, and their rash would affect the face and last for several days. Liver dysfunction can occur in rare cases, and the rare adult who contracts the disease can show signs of mononucleosis.

Until recently, its origin was unknown, but it is now known to be caused by two human herpesviruses, HHV-6 (Human Herpesvirus Six) and HHV-7, which are sometimes referred to collectively as Roseolovirus. Current research indicates that most babies infected with the HHV-6 virus had the virus integrated into their chromosomes during fetal development, from either the mother or the father.

What should be done is to immediately check a doctor qualified to perform routine blood examination. This virus is not cured by any type of medication, but by the endurance of the body itself, and the rash and clinical improvement also occurred almost simultaneously. Most children with the disease are not seriously ill. A child with fever should be given plenty of fluids to drink. The rash is not particularly itchy and needs no special lotions or creams.

Sources & Image:
Google / wikipedia.org

Bali to host International Yoga Festival

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 19:29:18 PST

Bali is to host a one-week International Yoga Festival from March 3-10, 2009. According to Bali-India Foundation chairman Dr Somvir, the festival would involve hundreds of yoga instructors from various countries around the world. "Themed Yoga for Peace and Health, such an international activity will be a follow up of Yoga Day program which has been intensified in the past two years".

He added that the whole series of activity would be held around Monument Perjuangan Rakyat Bali (Bali People,s Struggle Monument) a Niti Mandala Renon area in Denpasar. During the one-week activity, the yoga instructors would actively give yoga courses which were good for health.

The yoga exercises are open to participants from other religious group who would like to maintain their health condition and to heal various diseases they suffer from through the exercises.

"During the festival, the yoga instructors from foreign countries will instruct and train the participants with patience," Somvir said, adding that the participants and instructors from other countries would also hold a series of meeting to discuss various matters related to yoga,s worldwide development, and exchange information about the exercise.

Read also Fatwa Council says yoga with worshipping, chanting is prohibited

News Flash

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 17:49:03 PST

ROAD TO GREEN WORLD CUP 2022
Hear news from the online media that indonesian put up to host the World Cup in 2022, making all surprised. Really? I think we should first improve the implementation of the national league that is still often a commotion among both players and supporters, after it successfully completed and then we have a larger plan for example to host the World Cup.

The general PSSI chairman said we have the stadium as a place worthy of the World Cup that is Gelora Bung Karno Jakarta, Gelora Sriwijaya Palembang, Palaran Samarinda , and many of the stadiums in various provinces in Indonesian. But we must remember, not only that must be prepared, much more needed to prepare.

Presumably there are many things that we need to think about than to host the 2022 World Cup, such as complete case Lapindo, eradicate poverty, improvement of roads damaged, repair the system of education, and more.

And to host the World Cup it is not easy for Indonesia because it must compete with Australia, Belgium, Netherlands, UK, Japan, Russia, Mexico, United States, the Republic of Korea, Spain, Portugal and Qatar.

World Islamic Economic Forum
for the first time Indonesia will host the 5th World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) on 2 to 3 March 2009 and will be opened officially by Mr Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. According to plan forum will also be attended by Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the founder WIEF foundation, the head of Muslim countries and non-Muslims throughout the world.

Theme of this forum "Food and Energy Security and Stemming the Tide of Global Financial Crisis" as a continuation from the previous forum held in Kuala Lumpur, Islamabad and Kuwait. This forum is also to promote business and economic cooperation between Muslim countries and non-Muslim.

for further information please contact the site www.wief.org

Valentine's Day Celebration
Valentine’s Day, otherwise called ‘lovers day’, is celebrated every February by giving flowers, gifts and cards to those we love. People do this in honour of Saint Valentine. The event is synonymous with the mutual exchange of love notes in the form of ‘Valentines’. The whole world believed that that note started the custom of exchanging love messages on Valentine’s Day. It was written on February 14, 269 A.D, the day that Saint Valentine died. Now, every year, people remember the sacrifice that he made on this day. More important, they think about love and friendship. And when they think of Emperor Claudius, they remember how he tried to stand in the way of love, and they laugh because they know that love cannot be defeated!

Although I do not celebrate valentine's day but I say happy valentine's day to you all. Hopefully, in this blessed day you all happy and get the correct instructions from Allah.

Indonesia Election 2009

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 19:55:40 PST

Entering the 2009 election, many political parties to socialize within the community. Various attributes of the party and candidate members of the council decorate various corners of Jakarta. Dirty wall by various posters, banners and other attributes that are placed in a variety of trees, walls along the road and I think this is harmful to the environment. Not only that, some posters advertising related products such as cigarettes, movies, magazines, concert promotion, and others should also get special attention from the local government. If there're no sanctions then this will become a bad habit.

Most of the photos that were installed in the posters and banners are a new face. I am sure many people not familiar with their faces. Can they bring to the Indonesian social, economic and political better? Only God knows :D

The number of prospective candidates for members of legislative elections in 2009 reached 12,198 persons, spread over 77 regional elections. They will fill the 560 seats on the central level. They come from various background, including the famous artists. This election gives them the confidence to create a clean government.

We hope the legislative elections will produce quality officials and meet their campaign promises, not increase their own wealth. This time, people hope SBY and his democratic party will be successful so that fuel prices will continue to go down. And if the election can be held every month who knows the price of fuel can also go down and poverty also down every month. LOL....

image: andaka.com

The Most Corrupt Institutions

namakuida@gmail.com (ida abidin) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 21:22:37 PST

According to the survey conducted Transparency International Indonesia (TII), the most corrupt institution in this country is Polri. Survey conducted in September through December 2008 with the number of respondents as much as 3741 people.

Free newspapers, Suluh Indonesia, wrote a statement of TII, the determination of the police as the most corrupt institutions with the ratio of contacts between the business and the institution. Police ranks the top with a value of 48%, then 41% of Customs, Immigration 34%, Department of Transportation 33%, and DKI Jakarta government 33%.

In addition to cases of corruption in state institutions, TII also mentioned the 50 cities in Indonesia that are clean from corruption and the corrupt. In fact, Yogyakarta is the most clean of corruption, and Kupang is the most corrupt. The businessman in yogyakarta rate that government officials is clean and very serious in combat of corruption. Yogyakarta also received an award "Citra Pelayanan Prima 2008”.

The Five Clean City
1. Yogyakarta ( 6.43 )
2. Palangkaraya ( 6.1 )
3. Banda Aceh ( 5.87 )
4. Jambi ( 5.57 )
5. Mataram ( 5.41 )

The Five Most Corrupt City
1. Kupang ( 2.97 )
2. Tegal ( 3.32 )
3. Manokwari ( 3.39 )
4. Kendari ( 3.43 )
5. Purwokerto ( 3.54 )