So I'm inspired by Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil, the Canada's adventure couple. They really share many great travel tips. Check out www.theplanetd.com
As proud Canadians, they realize some people tend to have misconceptions about Canadians. And they created an interesting post, Canadian Stereotypes and Misconceptions
So I am a proud Indonesian and I want to make this post so that people won't have misconceptions again about Indonesians.
1. Indonesian language is written in Arabic script
Somehow I often hear people say this. First, let me share a brief explanation about Bahasa Indonesia. The language is actually influenced by Malay, Hindi, Arabic, Dutch, English and local languages like Javanese, etc. Indonesia was ruled by sultanates (Islamic kingdoms) and Indonesia has a very large Muslim population. But the language is never written in Arabic script! Never! We use roman alphabets just like English making it one of the easiest Asian languages. Our alphabets are also very simple. It contains 26 letters. Well, just like English. We don't have things like e accent in French or things like o umlaut in German.
2. All Indonesians are Muslims
Yes it is true that Indonesia has the most Muslim citizens in this world and that's of course something to be proud of (world record yeayy!) But compared to countries in middle east and north Africa, the Muslim population in Indonesia doesn't reach 95%. I guess it's just around 80%. This thing often happens to me in Germany. So I chatted with some Arabians who live in Germany. And they asked me where I come from. I answered: "Indonesia." And then they assumed that I'm a Muslim. Well, there are 6 religions in Indonesia. And note again that the Muslim population is only about 80%, not more than 95% like in middle east and north Africa.
3. Indonesians often see elephants and orangutans in the wild
So you know I'm an intern in a zoo currently. And my colleagues thought I often see elephants and orangutans in the wild because I'm from Indonesia. So let me explain this
Asian elephants and orangutans are listed as endangered species. If I could see them easily, they should not be listed as endangered species! Too bad we cannot see elephants and orangutans easily in Jakarta. By the way, I've never seen elephants and orangutans in the wild. It's probably because I've never been in Sumatra and Kalimantan, where people may find these animals. And also it's because I rarely (or never) visit national parks.
4. Indonesians eat noodle as staple food
Nope, the staple food is rice. Do people have this in mind because of our famous Indomie?
5. Indonesians love surfing
Very wrong. Hell yes Indonesia is a surfer's paradise! The beaches are very gorgeous with great waves for surfing. But not many Indonesians love surfing. It is also not a popular sport in Indonesia. Most surfers in Indonesia are actually Australians I guess. I even never surf how pathetic is that! But, Indonesians love football (or soccer) and badminton... That's true. I guess all Indonesians are born to play badminton. All of us can play badminton for sure.
6. Indonesia doesn't have alcohol drinks
Maybe it's because people think Indonesia is a Muslim country. But actually Indonesia produces and sells beers like Bir Bintang, Anker Beer, etc. We even have many traditional liquors. But of course not all people drink alcohol due to religious reason. I think alcoholic drinks can be found a lot in Jakarta (due to its multiculturalism), Bali (because the Balinese are almost 100% Hindunese and also multiculturalism) and Manado (Manado people are mostly Catholics). But basically alcoholic drinks are easily found everywhere in Indonesia. However, alcoholic drink is not really our culture. It doesn't take many parts in our lives. We're not like Germans or Irish, who believe beers are very important.
7. Indonesians are poor
Fact: Indonesia has the highest Blackberry user in the world. Another fact: Indonesia has the most twitter user. If we're that poor, how can we afford to pay for blackberry and internet? We're not that poor actually. Yes, you may still find people begging in the street and undernourished kids. But it is very normal for developing countries, isn't it? Go to China and India, the world's new economy powers and you'll find the same thing.
8. Indonesians don't speak English
People in travel forum often compare Indonesia and Malaysia. And people often say visiting Malaysia is easier because the people speak English. Well, English may not be the official language in Indonesia but it is widely spoken. In fact, our government worries that Indonesian youths prefer using English to Indonesian. I think Indonesians speak like Indians now. We tend to mix English with our local language. You'll see more "No Smoking" sign than "Dilarang Merokok" (means: no smoking) sign.
By the way, I write my posts in English not because I don't love my own language! Indonesian is a very interesting and exotic language. I love my language. I even wanted to study Indonesian literature. I write my posts in English so that non-Indonesian speakers can understand what I write!
9. Indonesian government does not uphold human rights
Indonesia's a democratic country. We have elections. We have freedom of speech. We have freedom of expression. We're just not that human-right-oriented like western countries. We just still believe death penalty has advantages and it's good to combat corruptions and terrorism. We have not legalized gay marriage and many other democratic countries haven't legalized it too, right? And we have school uniform, but it doesn't mean we don't uphold freedom of expression. It's for equality among students so that nobody wears branded products to school and show them off to schoolmates. I personally love my school uniform. Firstly, it reduces bullying. Secondly, I also didn't have to think "oh what the hell should I wear today?" early in the morning and spend my time mix-and-matching clothes in front of the mirror before going to school.
Showing posts with label Indonesia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Indonesia. Show all posts
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
10 Reasons to Love Jakarta
Hello.
It is June 22nd. And, you know what day is it today? It's Jakarta's anniversary! Today Jakarta has reached its 482nd anniversary.
All Asian capital cities have problems. The problems in Jakarta like traffic jam and overpopulation are also found in cities like Manila, Bangkok, Beijing, etc. I have to admit Jakarta still has many problems. Jakarta has too many inhabitants because our former president Mr. Soeharto was very centralistic making Jakarta has everything to offer. Jakarta has many factories, offices, malls, shops, etc and that makes many people from other cities move to Jakarta to find a job here but they don't know life in Jakarta is much more harder than life in other cities in Indonesia. The next problem would be the traffic jam. This is actually very normal for 3rd world countries. Bangkok, Manila, and even Manhattan cannot solve this problem completely. And, the next problem can be found only in Jakarta. We have floods. And, that is so lame.
Despite all the problems, Jakarta is a loveable city. I love Jakarta so much. And this post is a tribute for Jakarta from me, a Jakartan who is now so far away and missing Jakarta so much.
Why do I love Jakarta?
1. Jakarta is multicultural
I told you earlier that many people from other cities move to Jakarta to work or I don't know. Many Indonesians dream to live in Jakarta I also don't know why. But that makes Jakarta a very very culturally diversed city. Not all people who live in Jakarta are actually Jakartan (I actually don't know if people really say Jakartan in English but you know what I mean with it :p ). I am one of the example. My father is from Pangkal Pinang, Bangka Belitung and my mother is from Purwokerto, Central Java. So I am in this case "biracial". I am a combination of Sumatra and Java. But I live in Jakarta and many other Jakartans are like that too. That is why I love Jakarta. You can always find different kinds of people with different backgrounds.
2. Jakarta has the greatest food ever
This is the effect of reason #1. Well, people from other cities come to Jakarta and then they want to work here. Many people open a restaurant or food stalls and sell their local foods. And to be honest the foods taste better than the foods sold in its original cities. For example, Mie Bangka (Bangka noodle) in Jakarta tastes better than Mie Bangka in Bangka. Seriously. And I have a friend from Bandung and he said that Siomay Bandung in Jakarta tasted better than Siomay Bandung in Bandung. And, there are so many street foods in Jakarta. And they're very great. Even there are some street vendors only open at night to fulfill the need of night food.
Source: Elyanigunadi.blogspot.com
3. Jakarta is religiously diversed
Yes, it is. Even Indonesian biggest mosque (Masjid Istiqlal) is located exactly across Indonesian biggest church (Katedral). And it is definitely diversed. Compared to city like Banda Aceh for example. Banda Aceh is definitely not diversed. Denpasar in Bali is not religiously diversed too.
Indonesian biggest mosque and Indonesian biggest church
Source: Jakarta Post
4. Jakarta has many shopping malls
LOL! And they are open from 10 AM to 10 PM everyday even on Sundays they are also open. Wait a minute. I'm from West Jakarta. And, I can mention hmmm 6 SHOPPING MALLS JUST IN WEST JAKARTA: Puri Mall, Taman Anggrek, Citraland, Central Park, one mall in Cengkareng but I forget the name, and ITC Roxy. And there are still many more. Even you can find 3 malls in Pluit. Pluit is just a small district in Jakarta but there are 3 malls there! Pluit Village, Pluit Junction, Emporium. And even there are 3 malls around Bunderan HI: Grand Indonesia, Plaza Indonesia, eX. And in Kelapa Gading there are I don't know more than 3? Artha Gading, Mall Kelapa Gading, Mall of Indonesia, and a mall with lots of cafes I forget the name. You see? That is crazy right? But that makes you always have somewhere to visit every weekends. And, even you can bargain in some malls like MANGGA DUA or Glodok. Oh that is heaven there. Am I right but Taman Anggrek is the largest mall in South East Asia? Or Grand Indonesia? Or Artha Gading? I don't know but one of them are the largest in South East Asia.
5. Everything in Jakarta is spesific
It's hard to tell but every mall, every restaurant and every parts of Jakarta has its own characteristic and specialties. If you ask someone "where can I buy a good handphone?" then everyone will answer "ITC ROXY MAS!" or if you want to buy Muslim clothes than go to Tanah Abang. And if you want to buy electronics than go to Glodok. If you want to buy antiquities, go to Jalan Surabaya. If you want to buy chinese medicines, go to Petak Sembilan. If you want to eat Pangsit Goreng (fried dumpling), go to Bakmi GM. If you want to eat the best porridge, go to Bubur Mangga Besar. You see, everything has its own specialties.
6. The songs~!
The songs! The songs of Jakarta are always HAPPY. That portrays the characteristic of the local people of Jakarta. Listen for example songs from Benyamin Sjuaib. The songs are always happy and cheerful. The songs always contain humor and the stories are always not that important! For example I know a song from Benyamin titled Roti Gambang. The song is about a woman wants to buy a bread from Benyamin but the bread is no longer good and the woman complains. That's so funny right pop songs are normally about love or something like that. But the topic of this song is so funny! Basically the music of Betawi is always happy. ALWAYS! Sundanese, Javanese and Balinese songs tend to have minor melodies making the songs a bit sad. But Gambang Kromong and Tanjidor (Jakarta music) have happy melodies played with lots of gendang and trumpets. Trust me you'll feel happy after listening to those music.
7. BAJAJ!
This can be found only in Jakarta. It is small but very noisy. But bajaj is a very good way to go around in Jakarta. It is small so it can avoid traffic jam sometimes. And it is relatively cheap and you can bargain of course. Bajajs are found everywhere in Jakarta. They are mostly in front of supermarkets, schools, etc. They are easy to find. Really easy. And, they are safe! Taking an ojek (motorcycle taxi) has dangers because you don't have helmets for protection. Taking a taxi is actually well there are some crimes happened in taxi. I often hear stories like the taxi driver forces you to give your wallet, you cannot shout for help because you can't open the window, etc. I guess many girls in Jakarta are not brave to take a taxi alone. Bajaj is the safest. If something happens, you can easily scream and ask for help or just get off from the bajaj.
source: Littlejakarta.blogspot.com
8. Cheap mass transports
Well, the transports in Jakarta are actually not enough. We haven't had any subways and we haven't had monorails or boats. But who says the buses are not good? Well they are good! TransJakarta for example they cost only 3500 (2000 before 7 AM) and you can go wherever there is Busway. You can go from Ancol to Ragunan just with 3500. And TransJakarta are all placed in important places of Jakarta like train stations, regional bus terminals, zoo, theme park, etc. And the Metro Mini is even cheaper. Good thing about it is you don't need to wait in bus shelter! You can just get out from your house, then raise your hand and the bus will stop and wait for you to get on it. And they are only 2000 rupiahs.
MetroMini
Source: Lovejakarta.blogspot.com
9. Very very diversed
So this is again the consequence of reason #1 and #3. It is like Jakarta is just a city divided into 5 kotamadya and 1 kabupaten (well 6 regions). And you every region has its own characters and styles. If you see a guy wearing Converse shoes, skinny jeans, funny printed tee and big framed glasses, then people will think "Ah this guy is from SOUTH JAKARTA!". Like seriously. Or you hear a girl speaks Hokkian very fluently and then people will think "Ah this girl is from PLUIT or MUARA KARANG or PANTAI INDAH KAPUK, NORTH JAKARTA!". That means we're very diversed. Even in one city our cultures, our behaviours, our ways of thinking are different.
10. Street musicians
Many people see it as a bad thing. But we have a high rate of unemployed people in Jakarta. So they have to beg for money and they play music for example. When the traffic light is red, lots of street musicians come. Some of them are children. I actually don't know whether we're allowed to give them money or not. But it is just great when you eat in a street vendor and then a street musician comes and sings with guitar. And some are actually quite talented. Well, some not many actually.
If you want to know more about Jakarta culture, I recommend you to watch BAJAJ BAJURI in Youtube. The stories and the people in this films are so Jakarta.
Once again Happy Anniversary Jakarta. I wish Jakarta would always go forward. I wish all projects like subway or Jakarta Tower or St. Moritz or Regatta would be done immediately. Love you forever.
It is June 22nd. And, you know what day is it today? It's Jakarta's anniversary! Today Jakarta has reached its 482nd anniversary.
All Asian capital cities have problems. The problems in Jakarta like traffic jam and overpopulation are also found in cities like Manila, Bangkok, Beijing, etc. I have to admit Jakarta still has many problems. Jakarta has too many inhabitants because our former president Mr. Soeharto was very centralistic making Jakarta has everything to offer. Jakarta has many factories, offices, malls, shops, etc and that makes many people from other cities move to Jakarta to find a job here but they don't know life in Jakarta is much more harder than life in other cities in Indonesia. The next problem would be the traffic jam. This is actually very normal for 3rd world countries. Bangkok, Manila, and even Manhattan cannot solve this problem completely. And, the next problem can be found only in Jakarta. We have floods. And, that is so lame.
Despite all the problems, Jakarta is a loveable city. I love Jakarta so much. And this post is a tribute for Jakarta from me, a Jakartan who is now so far away and missing Jakarta so much.
Why do I love Jakarta?
1. Jakarta is multicultural
I told you earlier that many people from other cities move to Jakarta to work or I don't know. Many Indonesians dream to live in Jakarta I also don't know why. But that makes Jakarta a very very culturally diversed city. Not all people who live in Jakarta are actually Jakartan (I actually don't know if people really say Jakartan in English but you know what I mean with it :p ). I am one of the example. My father is from Pangkal Pinang, Bangka Belitung and my mother is from Purwokerto, Central Java. So I am in this case "biracial". I am a combination of Sumatra and Java. But I live in Jakarta and many other Jakartans are like that too. That is why I love Jakarta. You can always find different kinds of people with different backgrounds.
2. Jakarta has the greatest food ever
This is the effect of reason #1. Well, people from other cities come to Jakarta and then they want to work here. Many people open a restaurant or food stalls and sell their local foods. And to be honest the foods taste better than the foods sold in its original cities. For example, Mie Bangka (Bangka noodle) in Jakarta tastes better than Mie Bangka in Bangka. Seriously. And I have a friend from Bandung and he said that Siomay Bandung in Jakarta tasted better than Siomay Bandung in Bandung. And, there are so many street foods in Jakarta. And they're very great. Even there are some street vendors only open at night to fulfill the need of night food.
Source: Elyanigunadi.blogspot.com
3. Jakarta is religiously diversed
Yes, it is. Even Indonesian biggest mosque (Masjid Istiqlal) is located exactly across Indonesian biggest church (Katedral). And it is definitely diversed. Compared to city like Banda Aceh for example. Banda Aceh is definitely not diversed. Denpasar in Bali is not religiously diversed too.
Indonesian biggest mosque and Indonesian biggest church
Source: Jakarta Post
4. Jakarta has many shopping malls
LOL! And they are open from 10 AM to 10 PM everyday even on Sundays they are also open. Wait a minute. I'm from West Jakarta. And, I can mention hmmm 6 SHOPPING MALLS JUST IN WEST JAKARTA: Puri Mall, Taman Anggrek, Citraland, Central Park, one mall in Cengkareng but I forget the name, and ITC Roxy. And there are still many more. Even you can find 3 malls in Pluit. Pluit is just a small district in Jakarta but there are 3 malls there! Pluit Village, Pluit Junction, Emporium. And even there are 3 malls around Bunderan HI: Grand Indonesia, Plaza Indonesia, eX. And in Kelapa Gading there are I don't know more than 3? Artha Gading, Mall Kelapa Gading, Mall of Indonesia, and a mall with lots of cafes I forget the name. You see? That is crazy right? But that makes you always have somewhere to visit every weekends. And, even you can bargain in some malls like MANGGA DUA or Glodok. Oh that is heaven there. Am I right but Taman Anggrek is the largest mall in South East Asia? Or Grand Indonesia? Or Artha Gading? I don't know but one of them are the largest in South East Asia.
5. Everything in Jakarta is spesific
It's hard to tell but every mall, every restaurant and every parts of Jakarta has its own characteristic and specialties. If you ask someone "where can I buy a good handphone?" then everyone will answer "ITC ROXY MAS!" or if you want to buy Muslim clothes than go to Tanah Abang. And if you want to buy electronics than go to Glodok. If you want to buy antiquities, go to Jalan Surabaya. If you want to buy chinese medicines, go to Petak Sembilan. If you want to eat Pangsit Goreng (fried dumpling), go to Bakmi GM. If you want to eat the best porridge, go to Bubur Mangga Besar. You see, everything has its own specialties.
6. The songs~!
The songs! The songs of Jakarta are always HAPPY. That portrays the characteristic of the local people of Jakarta. Listen for example songs from Benyamin Sjuaib. The songs are always happy and cheerful. The songs always contain humor and the stories are always not that important! For example I know a song from Benyamin titled Roti Gambang. The song is about a woman wants to buy a bread from Benyamin but the bread is no longer good and the woman complains. That's so funny right pop songs are normally about love or something like that. But the topic of this song is so funny! Basically the music of Betawi is always happy. ALWAYS! Sundanese, Javanese and Balinese songs tend to have minor melodies making the songs a bit sad. But Gambang Kromong and Tanjidor (Jakarta music) have happy melodies played with lots of gendang and trumpets. Trust me you'll feel happy after listening to those music.
7. BAJAJ!
This can be found only in Jakarta. It is small but very noisy. But bajaj is a very good way to go around in Jakarta. It is small so it can avoid traffic jam sometimes. And it is relatively cheap and you can bargain of course. Bajajs are found everywhere in Jakarta. They are mostly in front of supermarkets, schools, etc. They are easy to find. Really easy. And, they are safe! Taking an ojek (motorcycle taxi) has dangers because you don't have helmets for protection. Taking a taxi is actually well there are some crimes happened in taxi. I often hear stories like the taxi driver forces you to give your wallet, you cannot shout for help because you can't open the window, etc. I guess many girls in Jakarta are not brave to take a taxi alone. Bajaj is the safest. If something happens, you can easily scream and ask for help or just get off from the bajaj.
source: Littlejakarta.blogspot.com
8. Cheap mass transports
Well, the transports in Jakarta are actually not enough. We haven't had any subways and we haven't had monorails or boats. But who says the buses are not good? Well they are good! TransJakarta for example they cost only 3500 (2000 before 7 AM) and you can go wherever there is Busway. You can go from Ancol to Ragunan just with 3500. And TransJakarta are all placed in important places of Jakarta like train stations, regional bus terminals, zoo, theme park, etc. And the Metro Mini is even cheaper. Good thing about it is you don't need to wait in bus shelter! You can just get out from your house, then raise your hand and the bus will stop and wait for you to get on it. And they are only 2000 rupiahs.
MetroMini
Source: Lovejakarta.blogspot.com
9. Very very diversed
So this is again the consequence of reason #1 and #3. It is like Jakarta is just a city divided into 5 kotamadya and 1 kabupaten (well 6 regions). And you every region has its own characters and styles. If you see a guy wearing Converse shoes, skinny jeans, funny printed tee and big framed glasses, then people will think "Ah this guy is from SOUTH JAKARTA!". Like seriously. Or you hear a girl speaks Hokkian very fluently and then people will think "Ah this girl is from PLUIT or MUARA KARANG or PANTAI INDAH KAPUK, NORTH JAKARTA!". That means we're very diversed. Even in one city our cultures, our behaviours, our ways of thinking are different.
10. Street musicians
Many people see it as a bad thing. But we have a high rate of unemployed people in Jakarta. So they have to beg for money and they play music for example. When the traffic light is red, lots of street musicians come. Some of them are children. I actually don't know whether we're allowed to give them money or not. But it is just great when you eat in a street vendor and then a street musician comes and sings with guitar. And some are actually quite talented. Well, some not many actually.
If you want to know more about Jakarta culture, I recommend you to watch BAJAJ BAJURI in Youtube. The stories and the people in this films are so Jakarta.
Once again Happy Anniversary Jakarta. I wish Jakarta would always go forward. I wish all projects like subway or Jakarta Tower or St. Moritz or Regatta would be done immediately. Love you forever.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Eat Pray Love
Oh 2 posts in a day. I just got so excited after watching Eat, Pray, Love trailer
I must see this film! Too bad she said, "I'm going to Italy, I'm going to India, and then I'm going to Bali". Hello! She has mentioned at first 2 countries. Bali is not a country. Bali is just a province of Indonesia. She should have said "... and then I'm going to Indonesia".
But, I just really want to watch this film. I know a russian who gets so inspired with the book and now she is in Bali, Indonesia. And she doesn't want to come back to Russia again. I don't know whether this movie brings good or bad effect to Indonesia (in this case Bali). But I guess and I hope it will bring many advantages.
Now that I live in Europe I need to go to Italy and eat great foods there.
I must see this film! Too bad she said, "I'm going to Italy, I'm going to India, and then I'm going to Bali". Hello! She has mentioned at first 2 countries. Bali is not a country. Bali is just a province of Indonesia. She should have said "... and then I'm going to Indonesia".
But, I just really want to watch this film. I know a russian who gets so inspired with the book and now she is in Bali, Indonesia. And she doesn't want to come back to Russia again. I don't know whether this movie brings good or bad effect to Indonesia (in this case Bali). But I guess and I hope it will bring many advantages.
Now that I live in Europe I need to go to Italy and eat great foods there.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
3 Unique Behaviours of Indonesians
After moving to Germany I realized that there are some behaviours of Indonesians that other people cannot understand. And they think these behaviours are quite strange and funny. Well, that is normal. I also think it is strange to bow for showing respect like what the Japanese do.
So these are the behaviours. Hopefully this post can help you understand Indonesians when you visit Indonesia.
Sorry! Left hand!
Do not give anything with your left hand in Indonesia. It is considered impolite. It is also for shaking hands. So, what is it is so imposible for you to give or accept something with your right hand? Apologize. Seriously. I mean it might sound so strange that one should apologize just because he uses left hand. You can apologize by saying: "Maaf. Tangan kiri." (engl: Sorry. Left hand.) Your interlocutor will than say it is okay.
Actually I also still don't get it why Indonesians do that. Some rumors say: "Because we use our left hand to wipe our bottom after defecating". Probably. But c'mon Indonesians also wash hands after it so I guess it is not the reason. Well, the point is there is no reason why Indonesians do not use left hand. Nobody knows.
Even when I was a kid, my teacher at school taught me like this: "Hey. Do not use your bad hand. Use your right hand". What? Bad hand? Left-handed are so misfortuned in Indonesia.
Wipe your mouth with....
TOILET PAPER! I know it sounds so strange. I used to think it is normal to use it to wipe your mouth or blow your nose. But my friends looked so disgusted when I did it. They are also confused why the hell I do not have facial tissue in my house but I only have toilet paper. Well, that is because for Indonesians they are the same. A clean toilet paper also has the same function as facial tissue right. It is just a bit rougher. It is just not as soft as facial tissue. But it can wipe your mouth just as well as facial tissue. When you eat in a restaurant in Indonesia, you will often find toilet paper served on your table. So do not be surprised. It is definitely clean and not disgusting at all. I also put my toilet paper on my table when I eat.
Well if a left-handed is misfortuned in Indonesia, I guess a toilet paper is so lucky to be in Indonesia. It doesn't only have the job to wipe the bottom, it may have the job to wipe the mouth. I guess being kissed is much much better than being ass-ed.
Your First Name Is More Important
Let's say your name is Marilyn Monroe. Marilyn is your first name and Monroe is your family name. In almost all countries people will call you Mrs. Monroe. But in Indonesia, people will call you Mrs. Marilyn. Even in governmental office you will be treated the same. They will add something like Mr. or Mrs. but they will call you with your first name not family name.
My mother's name is Astrid Herman. Herman is the last name. It is so obvious. But everytime someone who sounds like a credit card salesman calls, he will say: "Hello. Good morning. Could I speak to Mrs. Astrid?" Seriously. Mrs. Astrid not Mrs. Herman. But it is definitely not impolite at all. In fact, this man is so polite because he mentions 'Mrs.'
In school people also call teachers their first names. Even to the headmistress. My headmistress was Duma Hutahaean. And, people always call her Mrs. Duma.
That's why I feel quite uncomfortable when people call me Mr. Herman. I feel better being called Mr. Ricky. Although it sounds strange, I prefer that.
So these are the behaviours. Hopefully this post can help you understand Indonesians when you visit Indonesia.
Sorry! Left hand!
Do not give anything with your left hand in Indonesia. It is considered impolite. It is also for shaking hands. So, what is it is so imposible for you to give or accept something with your right hand? Apologize. Seriously. I mean it might sound so strange that one should apologize just because he uses left hand. You can apologize by saying: "Maaf. Tangan kiri." (engl: Sorry. Left hand.) Your interlocutor will than say it is okay.
Actually I also still don't get it why Indonesians do that. Some rumors say: "Because we use our left hand to wipe our bottom after defecating". Probably. But c'mon Indonesians also wash hands after it so I guess it is not the reason. Well, the point is there is no reason why Indonesians do not use left hand. Nobody knows.
Even when I was a kid, my teacher at school taught me like this: "Hey. Do not use your bad hand. Use your right hand". What? Bad hand? Left-handed are so misfortuned in Indonesia.
Wipe your mouth with....
TOILET PAPER! I know it sounds so strange. I used to think it is normal to use it to wipe your mouth or blow your nose. But my friends looked so disgusted when I did it. They are also confused why the hell I do not have facial tissue in my house but I only have toilet paper. Well, that is because for Indonesians they are the same. A clean toilet paper also has the same function as facial tissue right. It is just a bit rougher. It is just not as soft as facial tissue. But it can wipe your mouth just as well as facial tissue. When you eat in a restaurant in Indonesia, you will often find toilet paper served on your table. So do not be surprised. It is definitely clean and not disgusting at all. I also put my toilet paper on my table when I eat.
Well if a left-handed is misfortuned in Indonesia, I guess a toilet paper is so lucky to be in Indonesia. It doesn't only have the job to wipe the bottom, it may have the job to wipe the mouth. I guess being kissed is much much better than being ass-ed.
Your First Name Is More Important
Let's say your name is Marilyn Monroe. Marilyn is your first name and Monroe is your family name. In almost all countries people will call you Mrs. Monroe. But in Indonesia, people will call you Mrs. Marilyn. Even in governmental office you will be treated the same. They will add something like Mr. or Mrs. but they will call you with your first name not family name.
My mother's name is Astrid Herman. Herman is the last name. It is so obvious. But everytime someone who sounds like a credit card salesman calls, he will say: "Hello. Good morning. Could I speak to Mrs. Astrid?" Seriously. Mrs. Astrid not Mrs. Herman. But it is definitely not impolite at all. In fact, this man is so polite because he mentions 'Mrs.'
In school people also call teachers their first names. Even to the headmistress. My headmistress was Duma Hutahaean. And, people always call her Mrs. Duma.
That's why I feel quite uncomfortable when people call me Mr. Herman. I feel better being called Mr. Ricky. Although it sounds strange, I prefer that.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Miracle Happens!
Found this absurd news in okezone
Astaga! Perempuan Lahirkan Bayi Tanpa Proses Hamil
BLITAR - Ini bisa menjadi peristiwa langka yang mungkin tidak pernah terjadi. Seorang janda berumur 37 tahun bernama Suryati tiba-tiba melahirkan bayi laki-laki seberat 2,9 kilogram tanpa proses kehamilan.
Yang lebih aneh lagi, sang bayi dilahirkan dalam kondisi sudah disunat alat kelaminnya. Ini tentu peristiwa yang tidak biasa, lantaran Suryati, warga Desa Sukosewu, Kecamatan Sukosewu, Blitar, Jawa Timur, sudah menjanda sejak dua tahun lalu, setelah suaminya bernama Budi meninggal dunia.
Suryati yang bekerja sebagai buruh tani dan sudah memiliki dua anak ini mengaku tidak pernah mendapat firasat sebelumnya. Menurut pengakuan Suryati, pada suatu malam usai membantu tetangganya yang mengadakan hajatan, ia kemudian pulang dan langsung tidur.
"Bangun terus tahu-tahu saya sudah melendung, pokoknya antara setengah sembilan sampai jam sembilan sudah melahirkan bayi," jelas Suryati, Rabu (12/5/2010).
Sementara saat ditanya apakah ada keanehan saat melahirkan, Suryati mengatakan, kelamin bayi sudah disunat dan melahirkan tanpa darah tidak seperti (proses kelahiran) anak-anak yang lain.
Proses persalinan Suryati dibantu salah satu tetangga di rumahnya sendiri. Kejadian ini tentu saja membuat warga Desa Sukosewu langsung terkejut. Dari sudut pandang medis, bayi yang dilahirkan tanpa melalui proses kehamilan merupakan hal yang ganjil.
Apa yang dialami Suryati tentu menjadi pertanyaan banyak pihak karena di luar nalar serta logika manusia. Apakah persalinan ini melalui proses yang normal atau ada sesuatu di balik kelahiran sang jabang bayi, tentu hanya Suryati yang tahu.
OH MY GOD! A Woman Bore A Baby Without Pregnancy
BLITAR - This might be a very rare case that will never happen anymore. A widow (37) named Suryati suddenly bore a 2,7-kilogramm baby boy without being pregnant.
Even stranger is that the baby's penis has been circumcised. This is of course extraordinary because Suryati, who lives in Desa Sukosewu, Kecamatan Sukosewu, Blitar, Jawa Timur, has been being a widow for 2 years after her late husband, Budi passed away.
Suryati works as a farmer and has 2 kids. She never had a hunch before. Suryati said that one night after helping her neighbour, she went home and slept.
"I woke up and suddenly my stomach got bigger, and then I bore the baby between 8.30-9 PM", explained Suryati on Wednesday May 12th 2010.
When being asked if there is strangeness during delivery, Suryati said that the penis has been circumcised and she bore the baby without bleeding at all unlike the delivery of her first 2 kids.
Suryati's delivery process was helped by one of her neighbour in Suryati's house. This phenomena surprises the inhabitants of Desa Sukosewu. In medical point of view it is very odd that a baby is born without pregnancy.
What happened to Suryati is of course unbelievable. Is this delivery normal or is there something behind it? Only Suryati knows.
Astaga! Perempuan Lahirkan Bayi Tanpa Proses Hamil
BLITAR - Ini bisa menjadi peristiwa langka yang mungkin tidak pernah terjadi. Seorang janda berumur 37 tahun bernama Suryati tiba-tiba melahirkan bayi laki-laki seberat 2,9 kilogram tanpa proses kehamilan.
Yang lebih aneh lagi, sang bayi dilahirkan dalam kondisi sudah disunat alat kelaminnya. Ini tentu peristiwa yang tidak biasa, lantaran Suryati, warga Desa Sukosewu, Kecamatan Sukosewu, Blitar, Jawa Timur, sudah menjanda sejak dua tahun lalu, setelah suaminya bernama Budi meninggal dunia.
Suryati yang bekerja sebagai buruh tani dan sudah memiliki dua anak ini mengaku tidak pernah mendapat firasat sebelumnya. Menurut pengakuan Suryati, pada suatu malam usai membantu tetangganya yang mengadakan hajatan, ia kemudian pulang dan langsung tidur.
"Bangun terus tahu-tahu saya sudah melendung, pokoknya antara setengah sembilan sampai jam sembilan sudah melahirkan bayi," jelas Suryati, Rabu (12/5/2010).
Sementara saat ditanya apakah ada keanehan saat melahirkan, Suryati mengatakan, kelamin bayi sudah disunat dan melahirkan tanpa darah tidak seperti (proses kelahiran) anak-anak yang lain.
Proses persalinan Suryati dibantu salah satu tetangga di rumahnya sendiri. Kejadian ini tentu saja membuat warga Desa Sukosewu langsung terkejut. Dari sudut pandang medis, bayi yang dilahirkan tanpa melalui proses kehamilan merupakan hal yang ganjil.
Apa yang dialami Suryati tentu menjadi pertanyaan banyak pihak karena di luar nalar serta logika manusia. Apakah persalinan ini melalui proses yang normal atau ada sesuatu di balik kelahiran sang jabang bayi, tentu hanya Suryati yang tahu.
OH MY GOD! A Woman Bore A Baby Without Pregnancy
BLITAR - This might be a very rare case that will never happen anymore. A widow (37) named Suryati suddenly bore a 2,7-kilogramm baby boy without being pregnant.
Even stranger is that the baby's penis has been circumcised. This is of course extraordinary because Suryati, who lives in Desa Sukosewu, Kecamatan Sukosewu, Blitar, Jawa Timur, has been being a widow for 2 years after her late husband, Budi passed away.
Suryati works as a farmer and has 2 kids. She never had a hunch before. Suryati said that one night after helping her neighbour, she went home and slept.
"I woke up and suddenly my stomach got bigger, and then I bore the baby between 8.30-9 PM", explained Suryati on Wednesday May 12th 2010.
When being asked if there is strangeness during delivery, Suryati said that the penis has been circumcised and she bore the baby without bleeding at all unlike the delivery of her first 2 kids.
Suryati's delivery process was helped by one of her neighbour in Suryati's house. This phenomena surprises the inhabitants of Desa Sukosewu. In medical point of view it is very odd that a baby is born without pregnancy.
What happened to Suryati is of course unbelievable. Is this delivery normal or is there something behind it? Only Suryati knows.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Rumah Dara: Movie Review
After 4 months of waiting I finally just watched one of the most frequently-talked Indonesian movie this year. It is Rumah Dara.
I guess not many people know about Indonesian movies. I am ironically not a fan of Indonesian movies. But to be honest some movies are very excellent. My favorites so far are Opera Jawa, Berbagi Suami, and Ruang. Unfortunately the films I love didn't have good responses in the market because Indonesians don't like those kind of movies. However, these films (except Ruang) won lots of awards in international film festivals.
So what kind of movies do Indonesians like to watch? Horror and comedy. That's it. I have to say Indonesia has lots of horror movie collections that are spooky for Indonesians. The ghosts are usually Indonesian ghosts like Pocong, Kuntil Anak, etc. Because of positive response from the society for horror films many production houses keep making horror films and I'm now so sick of horror films. Finally, Indonesian horror films are no longer interesting.
Early this year movie lovers were made curious for one film. That is what I just watched Rumah Dara. It is not a horror, but a thriller. Directed by the Mo Brothers, Rumah Dara is also starred by many popular young celebrities like Julie Estelle, Shafeera Danish, Arifin Putra, Ario Bayu, etc.
Finally I got to watch it in dennyshotspot(dot)com. It is a site for Indonesian movies.
taken from Jagoan Movies
So what is this film about?
This film is about 6 young people on their way back home from Bandung to Jakarta. They suddenly met a young girl in the rain. And they take the girl to her home, which is deep in the forest. There they meet the family of this young girl and have a dinner with them. And, strange things happen. The family is in fact not a nice family but cold-blooded murderers.
My opinion:
I have to say this is the best horror film so far in Indonesia. Well, I actually haven't watched Bangsal 13. I heard that film also rocked but yeah I am just too afraid to watch it. And, I love Rumah Dara. Rumah Dara is a pioneer in Indonesian movie industry. We hadn't had this kind of film before. I think it is a bit inspired by Texas Chainsaw Massacre. And, they're successful. I really enjoyed watching it and got so thrilled. My heart beat really fast and I just really wanted to know how it would end.
My critic would be in its technic. Well, I don't know much about making a film. But, I still think the technic here is not yet perfect. It's good and it's a lot better than other Indonesian horror movies. But it's somehow not yet perfect.
I expected something cool but actually the scene was not really that good. It's hard to find an English expression of this but in Indonesian it is kurang nendang. Okay, this might be a bit spoiler. For example, the scene when this guy Mike Lucock is decapitated. I really expected to hear the loud screaming of the character before his death. But we hear no screaming. We just hear a very mysterious old-school music.
And, the actors. Well, the actings are OK-ish. It is quite unnatural (well I guess nobody speaks like this Dara - so slow and flat). But that's not a big deal at all. My favorite here is probably Arifin Putra. We know Arifin usually stars in drama series. And, his roles are usually like yeah a man in love or something like that. But this time he surprised me. He is a real killing machine. His face is so mysterious and stares people in a very strange way. Of course I also love Shareefa Danish, the most talked actress in this film. Her face is seriously so unique that she is good to be the boss of the murderer. Her voice is low and heavy. And she speaks in a slow and flat way. She sounds very strange there. At first, she is so calm and cool. But in the end, she yells and brings a chainsaw around. Oh I love the antagonists here.
Of course I give two thumbs up for the make-up artists. Without their good works, this movie is just a trash. The blood really looks real. I'm actually curious. Is Dara's hair natural or fake? It is so long and so shiny.
And of course I also appreciate the marketing team of this film. This is the first time I got so curious about an Indonesian horror film that I checked out its website. And I fell in love with its site. I always wanted to watch this film because of its website. The poster design is totally attractive too.
taken from IEW
Wow look it has participated many film festivals!
taken from Horrorblog
taken from resilla(dot)wordpress(dot)com
really like this Dara's mysterious look
So, I hope Indonesian movie industry keeps improving its quality and partipates more in international film festivals.
I guess not many people know about Indonesian movies. I am ironically not a fan of Indonesian movies. But to be honest some movies are very excellent. My favorites so far are Opera Jawa, Berbagi Suami, and Ruang. Unfortunately the films I love didn't have good responses in the market because Indonesians don't like those kind of movies. However, these films (except Ruang) won lots of awards in international film festivals.
So what kind of movies do Indonesians like to watch? Horror and comedy. That's it. I have to say Indonesia has lots of horror movie collections that are spooky for Indonesians. The ghosts are usually Indonesian ghosts like Pocong, Kuntil Anak, etc. Because of positive response from the society for horror films many production houses keep making horror films and I'm now so sick of horror films. Finally, Indonesian horror films are no longer interesting.
Early this year movie lovers were made curious for one film. That is what I just watched Rumah Dara. It is not a horror, but a thriller. Directed by the Mo Brothers, Rumah Dara is also starred by many popular young celebrities like Julie Estelle, Shafeera Danish, Arifin Putra, Ario Bayu, etc.
Finally I got to watch it in dennyshotspot(dot)com. It is a site for Indonesian movies.
taken from Jagoan Movies
So what is this film about?
This film is about 6 young people on their way back home from Bandung to Jakarta. They suddenly met a young girl in the rain. And they take the girl to her home, which is deep in the forest. There they meet the family of this young girl and have a dinner with them. And, strange things happen. The family is in fact not a nice family but cold-blooded murderers.
My opinion:
I have to say this is the best horror film so far in Indonesia. Well, I actually haven't watched Bangsal 13. I heard that film also rocked but yeah I am just too afraid to watch it. And, I love Rumah Dara. Rumah Dara is a pioneer in Indonesian movie industry. We hadn't had this kind of film before. I think it is a bit inspired by Texas Chainsaw Massacre. And, they're successful. I really enjoyed watching it and got so thrilled. My heart beat really fast and I just really wanted to know how it would end.
My critic would be in its technic. Well, I don't know much about making a film. But, I still think the technic here is not yet perfect. It's good and it's a lot better than other Indonesian horror movies. But it's somehow not yet perfect.
I expected something cool but actually the scene was not really that good. It's hard to find an English expression of this but in Indonesian it is kurang nendang. Okay, this might be a bit spoiler. For example, the scene when this guy Mike Lucock is decapitated. I really expected to hear the loud screaming of the character before his death. But we hear no screaming. We just hear a very mysterious old-school music.
And, the actors. Well, the actings are OK-ish. It is quite unnatural (well I guess nobody speaks like this Dara - so slow and flat). But that's not a big deal at all. My favorite here is probably Arifin Putra. We know Arifin usually stars in drama series. And, his roles are usually like yeah a man in love or something like that. But this time he surprised me. He is a real killing machine. His face is so mysterious and stares people in a very strange way. Of course I also love Shareefa Danish, the most talked actress in this film. Her face is seriously so unique that she is good to be the boss of the murderer. Her voice is low and heavy. And she speaks in a slow and flat way. She sounds very strange there. At first, she is so calm and cool. But in the end, she yells and brings a chainsaw around. Oh I love the antagonists here.
Of course I give two thumbs up for the make-up artists. Without their good works, this movie is just a trash. The blood really looks real. I'm actually curious. Is Dara's hair natural or fake? It is so long and so shiny.
And of course I also appreciate the marketing team of this film. This is the first time I got so curious about an Indonesian horror film that I checked out its website. And I fell in love with its site. I always wanted to watch this film because of its website. The poster design is totally attractive too.
taken from IEW
Wow look it has participated many film festivals!
taken from Horrorblog
taken from resilla(dot)wordpress(dot)com
really like this Dara's mysterious look
So, I hope Indonesian movie industry keeps improving its quality and partipates more in international film festivals.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Jakarta in 12 Hours
I just found Lonely Planet's video in Jakarta. Really interesting and worth-watching
I actually haven't been to Setu Babakan. But I've been to the other 5 sites.
1. Monumen Nasional (Monas)
Situated exactly in the center of Jakarta, Monas is Jakarta's landmark. And, you haven't been to Jakarta if you haven't visited Monas.
How to get there?
All Jakartans know where Monas is. No matter you get there by taxi, by bajaj or by ojek, they won't get lost taking you there. Everyone knows it. But I recommend you to take TransJakarta. You can get there by TransJakarta 1st corridor Blok M-Kota. It is just 1 stop after/before (from Kota to Blok M/from Blok M to Kota) the Harmoni Central Exchange. The Busstop is Monumen Nasional. TransJakarta costs only 3500 IDR. You can also get there by KRL (electric train). You should get off at Gambir station and voila the monument is exactly across Gambir.
What to do in Monas?
If you want to know more about Indonesia, visit the "diorama". It is like the chronology of Indonesian history displayed in mini statues. You can also listen to the recording of Indonesia's first president Mr. Soekarno when he read the so-called "teks proklamasi". He proclaimed the independence of Indonesia which happened on August 17th 1945.
It is also recommended to go to the peak of Monas and see Jakarta from above. The view there is fantastic. You can see skyscrapers in Thamrin (Jakarta's business district) and you can also see the old Jakarta (Harmoni, Hayam Wuruk, etc.)
Taking a walk aroung Monas is very great (even better with your girl/boyfriend lol). The park around Monas is full with green trees that make the weather cooler. If you're lucky you can also find some kancil (it's like deer but very small).
And, as what displayed in this video, go try the delman, Indonesian horse carriage. Unfortunately I don't know how much it costs. But I guess it's not expensive.
If you go back to Monumen Nasional busstop, you will also find Jakarta's national museum popular known Museum Gajah. Gajah means elephant. The museum is popular called Museum Gajah because it has an elephant statue in the gate. Museum Gajah displays plenty things from Indonesian kingdoms.
You can also find the statue of Arjuna Wijaya. The statue is inspired from a character of an Indonesian epic. He is Arjuna, a brave warrior.
2. Kota Tua (Old Batavia)
This place was the central of Jakarta. Dutch colonies built buildings with European architecture here.
How to get there?
I guess almost all Jakartans also know this place. You won't get lost getting there by taxi, bajaj or ojek. Cheapest would be by TransJakarta. This time you should stop at end station of corridor 1 Kota. I'm not quite sure if there is KRL to Kota but there must be. So you can also get there by KRL and get off at Stasiun Kota.
What to do in Kota Tua?
Well, just sightseeing! European architecture in a tropical country is too beautiful to be missed. Everytime I am there, I shut my eyes and imagine Jakarta during the Dutch colonization as the base of VOC (Dutch East Hindies Company). I see the Dutch pass by and hear everybody speaking Dutch. And, they dress in elegant oldfashioned suits. I also see lots of Indonesians selling their goods like spices, chillies, etc. to the Dutch.
In Kota Tua, there are many great european-style cafes (but they also offer authentic Indonesian food). I know one good cafe named Cafe Batavia. Museum Fatahillah also displays many things from Indonesia's past. Then, just go take a walk and see Jakarta's old train station Stasiun Kota.
It is also very interesting because after feeling European atmosphere you can suddenly feel the oriental atmosphere if you walk further. Not far from Kota Tua, there is Jakarta's China Town. The China Town is till today famous for its market. And people can bargain there. Glodok offers low-price electronic stuffs. But sometimes the stuffs are not bad at all. Pasar Petak Sembilan offers everything from dried salted fish to chinese herbal medicines. It is even better if you visit this China Town by Chinese New Year.
3. Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa
This is where the Dutch first arrived at Indonesia. And they fell in love with Indonesia after they arrived at this port. Sunda Kelapa is still active today. Many ships load and unload their goods here. But do not imagine the ships are modern. The ships are not modern at all and that's what makes Sunda Kelapa worth-visiting.
I was also there not long before I moved to Germany. And therefore, I have a picture of Sunda Kelapa in my cellphone (I used to have pictures of Kota Tua, Monas, Museum Gajah and China Town before a dickhead robbed my handphone while I was waiting for the bus at Senen bus station. Dammit)
How to get there?
Hmmm... It is a bit difficult to get there. It is unaccesible by TransJakarta. I gues the only thing is by taxi. You can also get there by bajaj or ojek (if your accomodation is not far from there). The nearest TransJakarta busstop is Ancol (corridor 5 Ancol - Kampung Melayu)
And, don't forget to eat in a seafood restaurant named Restoran Sunda Kelapa. Ohh... now I'm imagining its cumi goreng mentega (butter squid) and its kepiting soka (crab but not an ordinary one lol). It is already famous among expats too. I often see cars from embassy parked there.
4. Jalan Surabaya
It's time for antiquities! You can see lots of antique goods in Jalan Surabaya. Eventhough it is expensive but it's definitely worth-seeing because probably you will never see this thing again. There I found a very very old camera, telephone, typing machine, etc.
How to get there?
Again, it's a bit difficult. It is also unaccesible by TransJakarta but it's accesible by buses like Metro Mini or Kopaja. But I really forget the number. Then I'd go by taxi.
5. Pasar Seni
Pasar Seni (art market) is in the site of Taman Impian Jaya Ancol (TIJA). At Pasar Seni you really can see the works of Indonesian artists. They sell paintings, sculptures, etc. And they are really wonderful. Here in Pasar Seni you can also find sometimes interesting performing arts.
How to get there?
You can get there by TransJakarta and get off at Ancol (corridor 5 Ancol-Kampung Melayu).
What to do there?
TIJA doesn't only have this art market. It also has Seaworld, Dufan Themepark, and many other things. The beach is beautiful although you cannot do parasailing or banana boat like in Bali. But walking along the beach is very amazing. The wind is breezy. I recommend you to come here very early in the morning, jog there and witness the sunrise. And then, have breakfast in a cafe above water named Le Bridge. Besides Le Bridge there are also 3 good seafood restaurants: Bandar Jakarta, Jimbaran, and Segarra. But they're expensive and I would leave Ancol and have better seafood with low price at Dapur Umum. It is not far from Ancol.
The accomodations there are also fine. I suggest Putri Duyung Cottage.
Or what about leaving mainland Jakarta and visit Jakarta's Kepulauan Seribu? Many ferries depart from Ancol.
The TransJakarta map
Unfortunately I haven't been to Setu Babakan. Actually I also don't know where it is. I guess it is in Jakarta Selatan (South Jakarta) or near Srengseng. I really don't know.
So, enjoy Jakarta.
I actually haven't been to Setu Babakan. But I've been to the other 5 sites.
1. Monumen Nasional (Monas)
Situated exactly in the center of Jakarta, Monas is Jakarta's landmark. And, you haven't been to Jakarta if you haven't visited Monas.
How to get there?
All Jakartans know where Monas is. No matter you get there by taxi, by bajaj or by ojek, they won't get lost taking you there. Everyone knows it. But I recommend you to take TransJakarta. You can get there by TransJakarta 1st corridor Blok M-Kota. It is just 1 stop after/before (from Kota to Blok M/from Blok M to Kota) the Harmoni Central Exchange. The Busstop is Monumen Nasional. TransJakarta costs only 3500 IDR. You can also get there by KRL (electric train). You should get off at Gambir station and voila the monument is exactly across Gambir.
What to do in Monas?
If you want to know more about Indonesia, visit the "diorama". It is like the chronology of Indonesian history displayed in mini statues. You can also listen to the recording of Indonesia's first president Mr. Soekarno when he read the so-called "teks proklamasi". He proclaimed the independence of Indonesia which happened on August 17th 1945.
It is also recommended to go to the peak of Monas and see Jakarta from above. The view there is fantastic. You can see skyscrapers in Thamrin (Jakarta's business district) and you can also see the old Jakarta (Harmoni, Hayam Wuruk, etc.)
Taking a walk aroung Monas is very great (even better with your girl/boyfriend lol). The park around Monas is full with green trees that make the weather cooler. If you're lucky you can also find some kancil (it's like deer but very small).
And, as what displayed in this video, go try the delman, Indonesian horse carriage. Unfortunately I don't know how much it costs. But I guess it's not expensive.
If you go back to Monumen Nasional busstop, you will also find Jakarta's national museum popular known Museum Gajah. Gajah means elephant. The museum is popular called Museum Gajah because it has an elephant statue in the gate. Museum Gajah displays plenty things from Indonesian kingdoms.
You can also find the statue of Arjuna Wijaya. The statue is inspired from a character of an Indonesian epic. He is Arjuna, a brave warrior.
2. Kota Tua (Old Batavia)
This place was the central of Jakarta. Dutch colonies built buildings with European architecture here.
How to get there?
I guess almost all Jakartans also know this place. You won't get lost getting there by taxi, bajaj or ojek. Cheapest would be by TransJakarta. This time you should stop at end station of corridor 1 Kota. I'm not quite sure if there is KRL to Kota but there must be. So you can also get there by KRL and get off at Stasiun Kota.
What to do in Kota Tua?
Well, just sightseeing! European architecture in a tropical country is too beautiful to be missed. Everytime I am there, I shut my eyes and imagine Jakarta during the Dutch colonization as the base of VOC (Dutch East Hindies Company). I see the Dutch pass by and hear everybody speaking Dutch. And, they dress in elegant oldfashioned suits. I also see lots of Indonesians selling their goods like spices, chillies, etc. to the Dutch.
In Kota Tua, there are many great european-style cafes (but they also offer authentic Indonesian food). I know one good cafe named Cafe Batavia. Museum Fatahillah also displays many things from Indonesia's past. Then, just go take a walk and see Jakarta's old train station Stasiun Kota.
It is also very interesting because after feeling European atmosphere you can suddenly feel the oriental atmosphere if you walk further. Not far from Kota Tua, there is Jakarta's China Town. The China Town is till today famous for its market. And people can bargain there. Glodok offers low-price electronic stuffs. But sometimes the stuffs are not bad at all. Pasar Petak Sembilan offers everything from dried salted fish to chinese herbal medicines. It is even better if you visit this China Town by Chinese New Year.
3. Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa
This is where the Dutch first arrived at Indonesia. And they fell in love with Indonesia after they arrived at this port. Sunda Kelapa is still active today. Many ships load and unload their goods here. But do not imagine the ships are modern. The ships are not modern at all and that's what makes Sunda Kelapa worth-visiting.
I was also there not long before I moved to Germany. And therefore, I have a picture of Sunda Kelapa in my cellphone (I used to have pictures of Kota Tua, Monas, Museum Gajah and China Town before a dickhead robbed my handphone while I was waiting for the bus at Senen bus station. Dammit)
How to get there?
Hmmm... It is a bit difficult to get there. It is unaccesible by TransJakarta. I gues the only thing is by taxi. You can also get there by bajaj or ojek (if your accomodation is not far from there). The nearest TransJakarta busstop is Ancol (corridor 5 Ancol - Kampung Melayu)
And, don't forget to eat in a seafood restaurant named Restoran Sunda Kelapa. Ohh... now I'm imagining its cumi goreng mentega (butter squid) and its kepiting soka (crab but not an ordinary one lol). It is already famous among expats too. I often see cars from embassy parked there.
4. Jalan Surabaya
It's time for antiquities! You can see lots of antique goods in Jalan Surabaya. Eventhough it is expensive but it's definitely worth-seeing because probably you will never see this thing again. There I found a very very old camera, telephone, typing machine, etc.
How to get there?
Again, it's a bit difficult. It is also unaccesible by TransJakarta but it's accesible by buses like Metro Mini or Kopaja. But I really forget the number. Then I'd go by taxi.
5. Pasar Seni
Pasar Seni (art market) is in the site of Taman Impian Jaya Ancol (TIJA). At Pasar Seni you really can see the works of Indonesian artists. They sell paintings, sculptures, etc. And they are really wonderful. Here in Pasar Seni you can also find sometimes interesting performing arts.
How to get there?
You can get there by TransJakarta and get off at Ancol (corridor 5 Ancol-Kampung Melayu).
What to do there?
TIJA doesn't only have this art market. It also has Seaworld, Dufan Themepark, and many other things. The beach is beautiful although you cannot do parasailing or banana boat like in Bali. But walking along the beach is very amazing. The wind is breezy. I recommend you to come here very early in the morning, jog there and witness the sunrise. And then, have breakfast in a cafe above water named Le Bridge. Besides Le Bridge there are also 3 good seafood restaurants: Bandar Jakarta, Jimbaran, and Segarra. But they're expensive and I would leave Ancol and have better seafood with low price at Dapur Umum. It is not far from Ancol.
The accomodations there are also fine. I suggest Putri Duyung Cottage.
Or what about leaving mainland Jakarta and visit Jakarta's Kepulauan Seribu? Many ferries depart from Ancol.
The TransJakarta map
Unfortunately I haven't been to Setu Babakan. Actually I also don't know where it is. I guess it is in Jakarta Selatan (South Jakarta) or near Srengseng. I really don't know.
So, enjoy Jakarta.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Kartini Day
April 21st is an important day for Indonesians. On this day the Indonesians celebrate Kartini Day. But Kartini Day is not a holiday. Offices are opened on this day. But this day is just special, especially for Indonesian women.
I guess it is not just in Indonesia but also in almost all countries in this world that women were (or maybe ARE) discriminated. Women could not go to school and study like men. Women just stayed at home and learned how to be a good wife and a good mother. Women did not have as much freedom as men had.
Indonesians (both men and women) believe that Kartini is a heroine. Yes, I believe that too. I think it will be too long to tell Kartini's life here so I'll just give the link to her article in Wikipedia.
Okay brief biography. Kartini was born in an aristocratic family in Java. She attended school but just until 12 years old. Then she had to stay at home and learn how to become a good wife. She had to marry a man she did not love. It was her father's wish. She wrote letters to some Dutch pen pals about how women are discriminated in the Javanese culture. She passed away when she was just 25 after delivering her baby.
After her death, the minister of culture of East Indies Mr. Abendanon collected her letters and published a book titled Door Duisternis tot Licht. This book was the foundation of gender equality in Indonesia. April 21st (her birthdate) is now Kartini Day.
Kartini lived more than 100 years ago. Now, Indonesian women are no longer discriminated. Women are allowed to go to school and have the same right with men. Even Indonesia elected a female president, Megawati Soekarnoputri.
However, there are still discrimination among women and men. And I think it is not only in Indonesia but everywhere in this world. So, today I'm going to post my view on what to do to vanish the discrimination.
1. Same earning for men and women
I just read a very interesting article in Time. The title is Why do Women Still Earn Less than Men?. I guess it's an interesting article. But actually it is very hard to make it practical. I mean how can a government guarantee same earning for men and women? I guess that's what politicians should think now. Can same earning for men and women regulated by government?
2. Forbid schools to drop out pregnant teenagers
I really have no idea whether that's real or not. One of my favorite movie is Juno. And in this movie, Juno, a pregnant teenager, can still study and do activities in school just like she is not pregnant. This kind of thing does not happen in Indonesia. I guess in Indonesia a girl will be dropped out from school if she's pregnant. This is so unfair. It leads to things like this. The pregnant girl cannot find a new school because all schools will not accept a dropped out student. She cannot attend college because she doesn't have school diploma. She must get married then with the one who has made her pregnant. But, what if she had been raped? What if the guy who has made her pregnant were just a teenager? So, it is clear the government should forbid schools to drop out pregnant teenager. She still has the right to study and attend college and have a life just like all women. Just because she's pregnant doesn't mean she has to stay at home, raise her kid and have no more access to education.
3. Eradicate women trafficking
Women trafficking is a problem in Indonesia. Young girls are often kidnapped and then forced to become a prostitute in another country (usually Malaysia). Even there are agencies which promise good job as maid in foreign countries. Some women believe this and they pay some money and attend some training to be a maid or babysitter. But in the end, they are forced to be a prostitute and live in misery.
So how do Indonesians commemorate Kartini on Kartini Day?
Okay. First, see her picture
archive: Wikipedia
Well Kartini is such a truly Indonesian woman. Her beauty, her style, her look are truly Indonesia. Unfortunately people then tend to think Kartini Day is not about fighting for female emancipation but about dressing in traditional costume of Indonesia. Girls dress up with kebaya and konde exactly like how Kartini dresses. And boys wear traditional costumes of Indonesia. Today Kartini Day does not deal anymore with female emancipation. It is becoming a bit meaningless.
But good sides:
Kartini Day is becoming a bit meaningless because Indonesian women have achieved their goals. Women are now treated equally in Indonesia. And, another good side despite its tendency to become meaningless, Kartini Day becomes the only day when Indonesians want to wear traditional costumes at work or at school.
Happy Kartini Day. Have a good lives, women.
I guess it is not just in Indonesia but also in almost all countries in this world that women were (or maybe ARE) discriminated. Women could not go to school and study like men. Women just stayed at home and learned how to be a good wife and a good mother. Women did not have as much freedom as men had.
Indonesians (both men and women) believe that Kartini is a heroine. Yes, I believe that too. I think it will be too long to tell Kartini's life here so I'll just give the link to her article in Wikipedia.
Okay brief biography. Kartini was born in an aristocratic family in Java. She attended school but just until 12 years old. Then she had to stay at home and learn how to become a good wife. She had to marry a man she did not love. It was her father's wish. She wrote letters to some Dutch pen pals about how women are discriminated in the Javanese culture. She passed away when she was just 25 after delivering her baby.
After her death, the minister of culture of East Indies Mr. Abendanon collected her letters and published a book titled Door Duisternis tot Licht. This book was the foundation of gender equality in Indonesia. April 21st (her birthdate) is now Kartini Day.
Kartini lived more than 100 years ago. Now, Indonesian women are no longer discriminated. Women are allowed to go to school and have the same right with men. Even Indonesia elected a female president, Megawati Soekarnoputri.
However, there are still discrimination among women and men. And I think it is not only in Indonesia but everywhere in this world. So, today I'm going to post my view on what to do to vanish the discrimination.
1. Same earning for men and women
I just read a very interesting article in Time. The title is Why do Women Still Earn Less than Men?. I guess it's an interesting article. But actually it is very hard to make it practical. I mean how can a government guarantee same earning for men and women? I guess that's what politicians should think now. Can same earning for men and women regulated by government?
2. Forbid schools to drop out pregnant teenagers
I really have no idea whether that's real or not. One of my favorite movie is Juno. And in this movie, Juno, a pregnant teenager, can still study and do activities in school just like she is not pregnant. This kind of thing does not happen in Indonesia. I guess in Indonesia a girl will be dropped out from school if she's pregnant. This is so unfair. It leads to things like this. The pregnant girl cannot find a new school because all schools will not accept a dropped out student. She cannot attend college because she doesn't have school diploma. She must get married then with the one who has made her pregnant. But, what if she had been raped? What if the guy who has made her pregnant were just a teenager? So, it is clear the government should forbid schools to drop out pregnant teenager. She still has the right to study and attend college and have a life just like all women. Just because she's pregnant doesn't mean she has to stay at home, raise her kid and have no more access to education.
3. Eradicate women trafficking
Women trafficking is a problem in Indonesia. Young girls are often kidnapped and then forced to become a prostitute in another country (usually Malaysia). Even there are agencies which promise good job as maid in foreign countries. Some women believe this and they pay some money and attend some training to be a maid or babysitter. But in the end, they are forced to be a prostitute and live in misery.
So how do Indonesians commemorate Kartini on Kartini Day?
Okay. First, see her picture
archive: Wikipedia
Well Kartini is such a truly Indonesian woman. Her beauty, her style, her look are truly Indonesia. Unfortunately people then tend to think Kartini Day is not about fighting for female emancipation but about dressing in traditional costume of Indonesia. Girls dress up with kebaya and konde exactly like how Kartini dresses. And boys wear traditional costumes of Indonesia. Today Kartini Day does not deal anymore with female emancipation. It is becoming a bit meaningless.
But good sides:
Kartini Day is becoming a bit meaningless because Indonesian women have achieved their goals. Women are now treated equally in Indonesia. And, another good side despite its tendency to become meaningless, Kartini Day becomes the only day when Indonesians want to wear traditional costumes at work or at school.
Happy Kartini Day. Have a good lives, women.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Tari Saman Inspired A Music Video
I just found an interesting song. It's Charlie Winston - In Your Hands. I never heard of this singer before. But when I first listened to the song, I fell in love with his music. His genre is quite different. It's like I don't know African Jazz or something like that. He has the same genre with Amy Winehouse. The music is unique and it tells about poverty - well a very rare issue for a song. He has a nice style. He is really a jazz artist. And, his voice is amazing. His voice sounds like my favorite singer, John Legend.
But the most interesting part of this song is its music video.
Somehow I think the choreography is inspired by Tari Saman (Saman Dance) from Aceh. Tari Saman is now popular. The dance deals with clapping hands and singing. The dance is not that easy. You need to practise a lot with your friends before performing.
Well I don't know if the choreographer was inspired by this dance. But I'd be glad if Tari Saman were the inspiration.
But the most interesting part of this song is its music video.
Somehow I think the choreography is inspired by Tari Saman (Saman Dance) from Aceh. Tari Saman is now popular. The dance deals with clapping hands and singing. The dance is not that easy. You need to practise a lot with your friends before performing.
Well I don't know if the choreographer was inspired by this dance. But I'd be glad if Tari Saman were the inspiration.
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