Indonesia Unlimited Journey

West Sumatra quake toll at 1,100, thousands missing

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:10:00 +0000

As rescue workers searched for survivors in the wreckage of a four-story school Thursday, Mira Utami's mother clawed away, too — looking for the shoes missing from her daughter's body. Mira was taking a high school English final when the quake hit, flattening the school in seconds and killing her a week before her 16th birthday.

"We had planned to celebrate ... but she's gone," said her mother, Malina, weeping amid the wreckage where the barefoot body was found.

John Holmes, the U.N.'s humanitarian chief, set the death toll at 1,100, and the number was expected to grow. Government figures put the number of dead at 777, with at least 440 people seriously injured.
Wednesday's 7.6-magnitude earthquake started at sea and quickly rippled through Sumatra, the westernmost island in the Indonesian archipelago.

An eerie quiet settled over Padang late Thursday as workers called off search efforts for the night. Thousands are thought trapped under shattered buildings in the city of 900,000, raising fears of a significantly higher death toll when the debris is cleared.

"Let's not underestimate. Let's be prepared for the worst," President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said in the capital, Jakarta, before flying to Padang, a coastal city and West Sumatra province's capital.

Read More @ http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091001/ap_on_re_as/as_indonesia_earthquake

2nd quake shakes Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:48:00 +0000

A second powerful earthquake rocked western Indonesia on Thursday as rescuers struggled to reach survivors of the previous day's quake, which killed more than 500 people and left thousands trapped under collapsed buildings.

The death toll from Wednesday's 7.6-magnitude earthquake off Sumatra island was expected to rise as rescuers dig through the rubble, sometimes by hand, in heavily populated cities. The latest, 6.8-magnitude quake damaged hundreds of additional buildings, and communications remained cut in some areas.

"Let's not underestimate (the disaster). Let's be prepared for the worst. We will do everything we can to help the victims," President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said in Jakarta before flying to Padang.

A total of 529 people were confirmed dead and 440 were seriously injured, the Social Affairs Ministry's crisis center said. It said 376 deaths occurred in Padang, a coastal city of 900,000 and capital of West Sumatra province. The rest were in four surrounding districts.

Thousands were believed trapped, said Rustam Pakaya, head of the Health Ministry's crisis center. A foot could be seen sticking from one pile of rubble.

Read More @ http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091001/ap_on_re_as/as_indonesia_earthquake

West Sumatra quake death toll reaches 75

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:44:00 +0000

Padang Mayor Fauzi Bahar said Wednesday at least 75 people had been killed during the 7.6-magnitude earthquake that rocked West Sumatera earlier in the afternoon.

Kompas.com reported the mayor had phoned Vice President Jusuf Kalla to inform him of the number during an emergency Cabinet meeting at Kalla's house in Central Jakarta this evening.

Fauzi also said local authorities had closed Minangkabau International Airport due to the incident.

Among the ministers at the meeting are Transportation Minister Jusman Sjafei Djamal, Coordinating Minister for the People’s Welfare Aburizal Bakrie, and Social Services Minister Bachtiar Chamsyah.

Read More @ http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/09/30/w-sumatra-quake-death-toll-reaches-75-official.html

Indonesian women are still waiting for reproductive health rights

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 03:46:00 +0000

Since 2001 a group of NGOs led by the Indonesian Women’s Health Foundation (YKP) has lobbied the Indonesian government for reform of arcane and confused laws related to abortion. They are motivated by concern about reproductive health rights, and specifically the need to prevent the thousands of deaths associated with septic abortions each year. They were able to persuade a majority of political parties to support their efforts in 2004, and in the dying days of Megawati Sukarnoputri’s presidency, they gained parliamentary approval for a draft amendment to the health law that would have made abortion both safer and more easily available.

To the surprise of activists the amendment was not signed by the outgoing president, and thus lapsed when Susilo Bambang Yudoyono came to power in late 2004. Finding themselves back at square one, the NGOs and their allies in the DPR (People’s Representative Council) brought the amendment back to the legislature in 2005, but found that the politics of the situation had changed dramatically. Islamist politicians who had accepted the earlier change suddenly announced that they were opposed to abortion, and would now fight the amendment. Over the life of the 2004-09 DPR, amendments to the health law and particularly the clauses related to abortion made little progress, to the frustration of both the YKP and their DPR allies. The story of why this legal quagmire persists says a lot about the nature of democratic reform in Indonesia, and about the prospects for efforts to improve the status and health of women.

What does seem likely is that traditional healers, uncertified medical personnel and individual women will continue to use dangerous methods to terminate unwanted pregnancies. Clause 194 stipulates that those caught doing so will be subject to a one billion rupiah (A$130,000) fine and a maximum sentence of ten years in prison. Were that to be applied rigorously to the one million or so cases of abortion each year the legal system would never be able to cope with the trials, or the punishments. The reformed Health Law has again failed to protect or serve the women of Indonesia.

Read more @ http://www.insideindonesia.org/content/view/1237/47/

Susilo against 'Sweeping Malaysian' campaign

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:30:00 +0000

A day after the Malaysian government conveyed its concerns over the “Sweeping Malaysian” vigilante campaign in Indonesia, Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono yesterday described his citizens’ action as “excessive”. Susilo said the campaign was against the law and would put ties between Indonesia and Malaysia at risk.

On Tuesday, Indonesian activists of Relawan Ganyang Malaysia had conducted a raid on a street in Central Jakarta, hunting for Malaysians. They did not find any.

The Jakarta Post quoted Susilo as saying that the Indonesian government had done its part by sending protest notes and taking diplomatic action.

“We are working, and the Eminent Persons Group (a group established to improve Indonesia-Malaysia ties) is working. Why does there have to be such excessive action?” he had said while opening a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Office yesterday.

He also reminded the nation that about 1.8 million Indonesian citizens were currently working, living or studying in Malaysia, and that “sweeping” the streets for Malaysians could harm their presence.

“Let’s think about how to manage problems more wisely. On principal issues like territorial boundary, we have to be firm.

“On the Ambalat dispute, on things related to national sovereignty, we’re being firm.

“On other issues, I believe there is still a better way out — good solutions that don’t need to involve violent actions that are against the law, moreover during Ramadan,” the president said.

Although the Malaysian government has not issued any ban on travel to Indonesia following the campaign there, Malaysians are taking precautions by cancelling their holidays to the republic.

Tour agencies are reporting “thousands of ringgit” in losses.

The agencies have been recording cancellations over the past week.

QS Travel Services Sdn Bhd executive director Noraida Othman said her company had been receiving phone calls from clients day and night.

She also received messages asking whether it was safe to go there. Noraida said some 100 clients had cancelled their trips to Jakarta, Bandung and Bali, which had resulted in losses of up to RM30,000.

These three Indonesian cities are among top destinations for Malaysians. Travellers are opting not to take risks with their safety as threats against Malaysians in the republic have escalated over the past few weeks.

Yesterday, Jakarta Post reported nine rallies in the Indonesian capital. One of them was held in front of the Malaysian embassy there, a foreign ministry official here said.

Noraida said those who had already paid for their trips had no other choice but to continue with their plans to holiday in the republic.

“About 30 people are going to different parts of Indonesia in the next few weeks but they need to be assured of their safety. Who can provide them this assurance?”

A Sinisini.com spokesman said Malaysians were afraid of the demonstrations held in Indonesia.

The company, which operates online, has noted a drastic number of cancellations, especially for tour packages to Jakarta.

“There have been more than 50 per cent cancellations as of today.
“People pay for holidays to unwind and enjoy themselves, not to worry about their safety.”

He said besides the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, the current situation had added to the losses the tourism industry was suffering.

However, checks with local carriers AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines found there were no cancellations so far by passengers flying to Indonesia.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry and the Malaysian embassy in Jakarta will continue to monitor the situation closely and issue regular reports.

An operations room has been set up to receive reports of any related incidents from members of the public, especially Malaysian citizens currently in Indonesia.- NST Online

Of different Malays: The problem of boundaries

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 07:48:00 +0000

The recent furor caused by the Discovery Channel's mistaken insertion of the Balinese Pendet dance into a TV spot for Malaysia has reopened an old wound of Indonesians, who believe Malaysian has repeatedly stolen Indonesian cultural heritage, including the song "Rasa Sayange", the angklung, and the Reog Ponorogo dance, among others.

For most Indonesians, that the Malaysian government can claim these things is bewildering. Regular Indonesians would undoubtedly associate these three intangible cultural items with three different origins: "Rasa Sayange" is Ambonese/Maluku, the angklung is Sundanese, and the Reog Ponorogo is Javanese.
Most Malaysians, including the government of Malaysia, however, fail to see these as being of different cultural lineage. They lump them as belonging to Malay (Melayu) culture.

Malay culture is considered by Indonesians in reference to the dances of Lilin, Randai and Serampang Dua Belas, and has no direct connection to the Javanese gamelan, the Reog or the angklung. It is directly associated with the traditions and customs of the ethnic group within the boundary of the Malay peninsula. Malaysians seem to see a different boundary for Malay culture. Why is this?

Knowledge and narratives of local culture in Indonesia are developed in association with ethnic-based regional boundaries. They are endorsed by the state and they are part of nation building.
From elementary school, Indonesian kids learn about national heritage by memorizing the names of dances, folk songs and visual representations of traditional costumes.

The practice of documenting and selecting material artifacts of local cultures is part of the larger political process of inclusion that stresses nationalism and the national unity of Indonesia. Selective preservation of regional and/or local art forms, in constructing the national culture, is therefore part of the politics of exclusion.
Recognizing this pitfall, however, the ways in which local culture is framed in Indonesia are much less crude than in Malaysia. It is still assigned and identified with a certain cultural context/geographical (of origin). While being partial and reductionist, multifarious contexts and diverse locales still have some space in the narrative of Indonesian national culture.

Malaysia adopts a different route in approaching its national and local cultures. The modern nation-state of Malaysia frames national culture by clustering cultural artifacts into the Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous tribe (orang asli) cultures. The term Malay here differs from that of Indonesia, and refers to and is influenced by several concepts.

First, as enacted in the term "Malay is Muslim, Muslim is Malay", it is a form of ethno-religion. It is entwined with the concept of ethnic nationalism that has become today's Malaysia's dominant state-religion relations in which the state is fused to a particular ethnic group and religion functions as a signifier of ethnic identity.
Any Javanese, Acehnese or other Indonesian who migrated to Malaysia will be classified as Malay and are expected to be Muslim. Chinese-Indonesians, though, can box themselves as Chinese, thus do not have to be Muslim.

Second, it is used in association with the Malay race (bangsa Melayu) instead of the Malay ethnicity (suku Melayu).

This concept originated in Blumenbach's racial classification system, which divides the world's races into the Caucasian/white race, the Mongolian/yellow race, the Malayan/brown race, the American/red race and the Negroid/black race. His skull-based concept has been rejected by many anthropologists who recognize the enormous complexity of classifying races.

He considered the inhabitants of Southeast Asia, including the Marianas, the Philippines, the Malukus, Sundas and Pacific Islands as Malayan. Blumenbach wrote, "Malay variety. Tawny-colored; hair black, soft, curly, thick and plentiful; head moderately narrowed; forehead slightly swelling; nose full..."

The concept of the Malay race is also a historical heritage of colonialism. European planters and British officials in Malaysia were keen to obtain laborers from the Dutch East Indies because they were regarded as being better suited to the climate and would assimilate more easily with the local Malays.

Indonesian migrants were viewed as originating from the same racial stock as the Malays, regardless of ethnicity. In early colonial Malaysia, the Straits Settlements censuses of 1871 and 1881 both listed "Malay, Achinese, Andamanese, Boyanese, Bugis and Javanese" separately.

In the 1891 census, however, there were major structural changes in the classification of ethnicities. The 48 different ethnicities were sorted under the major (hierarchical) classifications of "European and American, Eurasian, Chinese, Malays and other Natives of the Archipelago, Tamils and other Natives of India, and Other Races".

The creation of the category "Malay and other Natives of the Archipelago" and the inclusions of the various ethnicities in it contributed toward formalizing the boundaries of Malay-ness. The modern nation-state Malaysia cultivates this heavily politicized classification by clustering Malaysians into Malays, Chinese, Indians and indigenous tribes.

Tracing the origin of the term Malay as used in Malaysian context, we thus can understand that the Malaysian version of Malay is more a product of political reconstruction (of colonialism and a modern ethnic nationalism) and is rooted in the politics of race and identity rather than the geographical boundary of origin.

As people move around globally, cultures flow in all directions. Tracing the histories and origins of culture is thus always a complicated task. Lumping together various artifacts into one Malay culture whose boundary is heavily politicized is certainly not the most plausible method to complete the task. It fails to recognize the complexity of the cultures of the archipelago, thus removing them from their multifarious contexts and locales and uprooting these cultures from the people who shape and are reshaped by them.

As for Indonesia, it is time to recognize and appreciate local cultures not by treating them as symbols to justify unity and diversity, but by supporting and caring for the people who work tirelessly in preserving and maintaining these cultures. - TheJakartaPost

Malaysia’s tourism video and the stolen Indonesian culture

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 07:15:00 +0000

At first I thought it was a slow news day. When a news program was broadcasting an item titled “Indonesian culture robbed by Malaysia”, I watched it in mute mode, admiring scenes of Chinese girls eating laksa and going shopping, in another Malaysia tourism video.

The next day, the stealing claim seemed justified. The stolen culture in question was the Pendet dance from Bali, which in no way would reach Malaysia through shared Malayan culture or through Javanese and Bugis migrants.

Until today, voices condemning Malaysia are still being aired, with professors and political scientists saying Malaysia has no indigenous culture and thus has some sort of inferiority complex, and thus is stealing Indonesian culture. Furthermore, many learned Indonesians sneer at Malaysia’s tourism slogan, “Truly Asia”, saying that it’s nonsense and proves that Malaysia has no true identity.

This newspaper, however, pointed out that “Truly Asia” means that Malaysia is a one-stop destination for tourists wishing to see Southeast Asian, Chinese and Indian cultures. Some Indonesian condemners may still be unaware of Malaysia’s multiple-ethnicities, while others may deliberately ignore it and feel more comfortable with the view that Malaysia is a Malay nation. As for the Pendet case, it turns out the video was made by a private production house that just copied and pasted several fun tourism images, without any intention of malice.

I found proof about the “Truly Asia” slogan on my arrival at Kuala Lumpur: The taxi got lost and I couldn’t get through to my friend’s phone — at sunrise on an empty suburban road. I tried to ask for directions from several strangers. The first one were an elderly Chinese couple who didn’t speak English or Malay. The second were a couple of Indian garbage men who spoke broken English. The Malay taxi driver preferred to talk in English as our Malay dialects were incomprehensible to each other.

Finally he got the address from a Malay youth. I found the house in time for breakfast, ready to feast on wonderful Malaysian food, especially Chinese peranakan dishes, such as laksa and nasi lemak, and Indian drinks like teh tarik and susu bandung.

Many Indonesians in Malaysia must consume an unfunny old joke. In the courtyard before the Petronas Tower one night, my host said we should avoid the dark spots otherwise we could be robbed by “your countrymen”.

This newspaper had received some complaints from Malaysians that said the Indonesian media and people never talked about the violent crimes carried out by Indonesians in Malaysia. We retaliated by pointing out that Noordin M. Top is a Malaysian national, and some have even gone so far to suggest that he was planted by the Malaysian government to ruin the Indonesian tourism industry.

In fact, there is no culture war and no tourism war between Malaysia and Indonesia. Malaysia’s biggest rival in attracting tourists is Singapore, and thus Malaysia’s promos offer similar things that Singapore offers – vibrant nightlife, glorious food, Formula 1 racing and great shopping experiences. Do our tourism promos cover those things? Malaysians count Singapore as their dreadful rival, and hardly think of Indonesia, which is on a different class.

Indonesia’s hatred for Malaysia has been around since the 1960s, probably earlier. Malaysia is the political opposite of Indonesia. It had good relations with its British colonizer, it is a federation, a parliamentary monarchy, and it is never interested in socialism. After peace returned with the creation of the ASEAN bloc, both governments tried to convince the people that Indonesians and Malaysians were brothers of the same stock.

This effort held until the 21st century, when Malaysian economic progress left Indonesian behind, and more learned Indonesians are embracing Sukarno-style zero-sum nationalism. The real story is still the same after 40 years — distract one’s woes by creating and hating a foreign enemy.
As often stressed by other writers, some cultural items that we have claimed were “robbed” by Malaysia are not exclusively Indonesian. Batik is a common throughout Southeast Asia, and a top batik brand wrote in its coffee table book that batik had been influenced for centuries by Chinese, Indian, Arabic, European and Japanese designs.

Musical instruments like the angklung and gamelan are also common throughout Southeast Asia.
Wayang is hardly Indonesian — the hide puppets originated from mainland SE Asia, and there are similar storytelling arts in China, Japan and Europe. When Miss Indonesia dressed as Srikandi, she dressed as a Hindu — and Indian — character still revered religiously in India and Malaysia.

As for the disputed isles, I think it’s ridiculous if white collar men in Jakarta could get upset reading the news about Ambalat, and yet the next minute they are making backstabbing remarks about fellow Indonesians from outside Java. Disputed territories are hardly unique — Japanese and Koreans fight over a rock and on the naming of the sea between their nation and Cambodia had an anti-Thai riot because of a temple located nearby the modern borderlines.

We claim Malaysia has an inferiority complex, and yet the problem is our own. Of course, Malaysia is guilty of ignorance and laziness in making its tourism commercials, but it’s pointless and confusing to dwell on one objectionable frame and continue to fuss about it.

We accuse Malaysia of disrespecting us because deep inside we feel that our supposed “brother” has left us behind with its decent standard of living, global brands (e.g. Air Asia, Maxis, Petronas and Michelle Yeoh) and good investment reputation. Russians have had similar problems with former USSR states, and Chinese netizens have grudges with the Japanese and Americans. In all three cases, past history is always offered for justification of hatred, as we’re closing in to 2010.

But Malaysia is also having similar internal strife. As its Chinese and Indian populations become more politically involved, harassment and foul plays also increase. Malaysian politicians have become increasingly comical and ridiculous in acting as defenders of Muslims and Malays, and its political and religious freedoms are far below Indonesia.

Flying the Indonesian flag on your product and wallpaper, while condemning Malaysia on your Twitter and T-shirt, won’t solve anything. Malaysia never thinks about those tourism commercials and they know that Noordin M. Top is a Malaysian hiding in Indonesia because he couldn’t survive in Malaysia.

We can accept that the crime rate in Indonesia is high — so it makes sense that many Indonesians in Malaysia are involved in violent crimes.

If you want more tourists to visit Indonesia, stop sending the message that you dislike foreigners. If you want Pertamina to become a global brand like Petronas, and to have Formula One held in Indonesia, study and follow their steps. If you find an item on the Internet demeaning Indonesia, ignore it and move on with your own priorities. Stop getting so angry about trivial things so easily when we have potential to do great things for ourselves. - TheJakartaPost

Dating Tips: 9 Simple Things Women Want

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 06:35:00 +0000

1. Respect. Show us through your actions that you respect our opinions, careers, interests, friends, bodies, and minds. You don't have to agree with all that we say or do, but try to honor our opinions as valuable contributions. Follow the golden rule and treat us as you would like to be treated: Be honest, fair, kind, and considerate.

2. Romance. It's another night on the couch with takeout and TiVo? Just because we're staying in doesn't mean the evening can't be romantic. Light a few candles and see where the night leads. Treat us like your girlfriend, even after we become your wife. Date nights, physical affection in the car, kissing like when we first started dating -- all of the things that made us fall in love with you don't have to stop just because now there are bills to pay, a house to be cleaned, and kids to be bathed. Bring home flowers for no reason. We're not talking $100 bouquets of roses here. Even the $10 bouquets from the supermarket are enough to make us smile.

3. Time. We understand relationships can't be all wine and roses; simply making the time to be with us and treating us like your top priority says "love" more than all the fancy gifts and lovely letters ever could. This includes helping around the house. The realities of a 21st-century relationship are that both partners probably work. If you happen to get home before we do, why not vacuum the living room or throw in a load of laundry? If you take the garbage out without being asked, chances are you'll be getting a big ole smooch when you come back.

4. Dinner. Of the homemade variety. You may not be good at cooking and you may not know how to boil water. But greeting us at the door after a long day with fish sticks (or whatever you can wrastle up) makes us swoon, because it shows that you've been thinking about us and our hectic day.

5. Communication. Women are vocal creatures. We know you love us, but it's nice to hear you say it, too. We can also be insecure. We wish we weren't, but the reality is that we often notice our wobbly thighs and forget about our gorgeous eyes. So let us know when you think we're hot. Tell us we're beautiful. It helps us feel good. Words of appreciation aren't half-bad either. Tell us you love the lasagna we made. Notice that we cleaned the bathtub. It doesn't have to be over the top, just let us know that you see the effort we put in, and you're grateful.

6. Consistency. This doesn't mean be boring and predictable. It means that we know you will (usually -- no one is perfect!) give us the love and support we need. Knowing that you're coming at this with the same desires and energy as we are goes a long way to making us feel secure.

7. Engagement. Of the mental kind, not the "I'm getting married in the morning" kind. You don't have to like everything we like (we might be a little concerned if you do), but showing interest in our passions, be it career-related, a sport, or a hobby, goes a long way. Listen when we talk to you. We're not speaking just so we can hear our own voice; we want to connect with you and this is one valuable way we do this. This also means paying attention to the little things. Whether it's the name of your best friend's husband or the fact that you hate Nicolas Cage movies, it's the little things you remember about us that's so endearing.

8. Humor and Humility. These two tend to go hand in hand. This doesn't mean that you have to crack jokes or entertain us, but just being able to laugh at yourself is enough. Guys who take themselves too seriously bring everyone down.

9. Challenge. Not the kind that makes a relationship constant work, but the good kind that surprises and motivates us to do, be, or achieve what we desire. Studies show that partners who prod each other to meet goals -- in other words, don't support lazy or bad habits -- are ultimately happier than those who don't hold each other accountable.

Source : Dating Tips

Indonesia expects 7% growth

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:07:00 +0000

Indonesia is aiming for annual growth of seven percent by the time re-elected President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono completes his second term in 2014, his vice president said on Tuesday.
The president's running mate in this month's presidential polls, Boediono, told officials and academics Indonesia was poised for stronger growth, underpinned by a recovery in exports and a robust domestic economy.
'We have passed the worst of the crisis,' he told a forum organised by Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.

The economy is expected to expand by four per cent this year and five per cent next year, said Mr Boediono, fresh from a campaign in which Dr Yudhoyono triumphed over rivals such as ex-president Megawati Sukarnoputri. He said an average seven percent growth would help cut unemployment from around 8.1 per cent this year to five-six per cent by 2014 and slash poverty from 15 per cent of the population to around eight per cent. It would also bring inflation in line with the regional norm of 3-4 per cent annually.

'The timeframe is five years and seven percent (growth) is more or less the average,' said Mr Boediono, who is also a former finance minister. 'We are expecting a recovery in our exports during the five years. We will be supporting domestic demand (by) accelerating infrastructure development.'Despite the global economic crisis, Indonesia's economy rose 6.1 per cent last year, the highest in Asia after China and India, thanks to a resilient domestic economy which offset a decline in exports.

The new government will start its five-year term in October. Mr Boediono said the latest elections would enable the country to consolidate democratic gains after more than 30 years of authoritarian rule under president Suharto ended in 1998.He said the new government aimed to strengthen financial supervision, improve the business climate and boost the social security net to help the poor.

Morning sex for a healthier you

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sun, 24 May 2009 01:49:00 +0000

NOW we have the perfect excuse to get down to some steamy sex in the morning – it’s good for us. That’s because sex uses every muscle group in the body and gives the heart and lungs a high-octane aerobic work-out.

1. It burns around 300 calories an hour.
2. And a good session at least three times a week boosts the heart, halving the risk of a heart attack or stroke, a study at Queen’s University in Belfast has discovered.
3. They say regular sex also boosts circulation and keeps down blood pressure.
4. Sex twice a week is the perfect COLD CURE as it boosts IgA – the immune system’s first line of defence, according to a study in New Scientist.

But don’t overdo it – sex more than three times a week LOWERS our defences. Moments before orgasm, levels of the feelgood hormone oxytocin surge and flood the body with powerful endorphins. These natural painkillers help ease everything from arthritis to migraine.

A steamy session also means we feel less stressed as it inhibits production of the hormone cortisol. And, because it provides a calorie-burning work-out and helps maintain a healthy weight, it will reduce your risk of diabetes too.

An American study of 300 sexually active women whose partners did not use condoms found they were less likely to have depression. Researchers think that is because they absorb the hormone prostaglandin, which is only found in sperm. But do not try this if you are not in a stable relationship – a sexually transmitted infection is a recipe for depression.

An orgasm will release a surge of oestrogen, which can relieve the pain of PMS.

Researchers at Yale School of Medicine believe it could also help prevent endometriosis – a painful condition where the tissue which should line the womb grows in other parts of the pelvis. Apart from the benefits of the work-out, sex boosts the production of testosterone. This hormone is associated with stronger bones and muscles so may help fend off osteoporosis. Sex also increases the output of oestrogen and other hormones that make the hair shine and skin glow.

And, according to NHS Direct, “if you are worried about wrinkles – orgasms even help prevent frown lines deepening”.

source : thesun

Beautiful Places In INDONESIA

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Mon, 11 May 2009 04:30:00 +0000

This is 5 Vacation spots in my country, Indonesia. I've been there several times. This is very great place you have to visit.

1. BALI

Most people in the World might familiar with this place. Bali have lot of beautiful beaches such as Kuta Beach, Legian, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Sanur, Jimbaran, Dreamland, Tanah Lot, Lovina, Amed, Candidasa, Ukuwatu, Tanjung Benoa, Tulamben . You would not be regret to come to Bali. The exotic culture and places will make you love it.

2. LOMBOK

The island of Lombok is located east of Bali island and can be easily accessed by air o by the sea. This is the simple pleasure of sunshine, white sandy beaches in quieter settings, unique culture and eco tours makes Lombok a perfect gateway for honeymooners, families or those who look for a total relaxing holiday.

3. YOGYAKARTA

Yogyakarta is the main tour destination of the island of Java in Indonesia. Yogyakarta is known as the student city. Because in this place there is lot of school and colleges. Yogya is a city with outstanding historical and cultural heritage. Yogyakarta was the centre of the Mataram Dynasty (1575-1640), and until now the kraton (the sultan's palace) exists in its real functions. Also, Yogyakarta has numerous thousand-year-old temples as inheritances of the great ancient kingdoms, such as Borobudur temple established in the ninth century by the dynasty of Syailendra. More than the cultural heritages, Yogyakarta has beautiful natural panorama. The green rice fields cover the suburban areas with a background of the Merapi Mountain. The natural beaches can be easily found to the south of Yogyakarta.
Here the society lives in peace and has typical Javanese hospitality. Just try to go around the city by bike, pedicab, or horse cart; and you will find sincere smiles and warm greeting in every corner of the city.
An artistic atmosphere is deeply felt in Yogyakarta. Malioboro, as the center of Yogyakarta, is overwhelmed by handicraft from all around the city. Street musicians always ready entertain the visitors of the lesehan food stalls.

4. TMII

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah or Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park is the best place to know all about Indonesia if you have a short visit to Jakarta. It would take someone a lifetime to visit every regions of the far-flung Indonesian archipelago (There are more than 17,000 islands). But at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in Jakarta you can visit the entire country in only a day or two. The park represents all Indonesia's 33 provinces and their real cultures and characteristics, reflected most strikingly in the exact regional architecture of the province.

You'll be surprised to know that this Indonesia miniature park is not small after all, as Taman Mini Indonesia Indah is HUGE, covering more than 165 hectares in size. This place takes all day and a fair bit of effort to visit. Take a car, otherwise you will be in for a long hot walk and be prepared for massive crowds. It is all too many for one day indeed. But it's also a nice peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of overcrowded Jakarta. Definitely one of the best attractions in Jakarta!
Indonesia Miniature Park also has its own orchid garden, a bird park with a walk-in viary, a fauna museum and recreational grounds, as well as an Indonesian art and handicraft market. At the Keong Mas (golden snail) theater the Indonesia promotion film "Beautiful Indonesia" is projected on a gigantic screen using the latest Imax (super realistic in image and sound) technology. Be sure not to miss this extraordinary experience.

5. LAKE TOBA

It is located in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. Lake Toba lies in the northern part of Barisan Mountain Range, which is volcanic and traverses Sumatra Island from northwest to southeast as its backbone.
The laketrough is surrounded by precipitous cliffs 400-1,200 m high. Based on the topographic feature and the wide distribution of volcanic ejecta around the lake, some geologists and valcanologists have considered it to be a giant caldera or cauldron.
The water surface of L. Toba is 905 m above sea level and about 1,100 km2 wide. The total area of the lake, including the areas of Samosir and Paradapur Islands, amounts to 1,780 km2. The mountains around the lake are called Batak Highlands. The only draining river from L. Toba, the Asahan, flows southeastwards dissecting the gentle slopes of the pyroclastic plateau.

Antasari Azhar KPK Chairman in the murder case

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sat, 09 May 2009 04:33:00 +0000

Nasrudin died on March 15, 2009, in a hospital from fatal wounds sustained in a shooting at him as he was leaving the Modernland Golf Course in Tangerang. Nasrudin died at the Gatot Subroto Army Hospital in Central Jakarta. The motive for the shooting remained a mystery for more than a month, when National Police Chief Gen. Bambang Hendarso Danuri announced the police had arrested nine suspects in the murder case.

A source with the National Police said a high-ranking police officer had been arrested in Bandung in relation to the murder case.

In response to Antasari's alleged involvement in the crime, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono expressed support to an investigation on the murder case that may implicate the key figure in the country's battle against corruption, the Corruption Eradication Commission chairman.

Commenting on the alleged involvement of Antasari in the murder, a political analyst Dr Sofyan Siregar, a roving lecturer at the Islamic University of North Sumatra, said actually this was an act of those who wanted to make Antasari trapped in a crime. As a clean figure who has the courage to capture whoever was allegedly involved in murder indiscriminately would be facing many rivals, he said.

MAS SELAMAT KASTARI captured

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sat, 09 May 2009 04:15:00 +0000

Suspected Singaporean terrorist Mas Selamat Kastari has been arrested by Malaysian police.

It is learnt the fugitive, who escaped from a Singapore maximum security detention centre on Feb 27, 2008 was arrested in Johor together with two others by Special Branch officers following intelligence sharing with the police forces of Indonesia and Singapore.

Sources said police here who had been on high alert for the suspected terrorist since his escape had gathered intelligence from their counterparts that Mas Selamat was hiding in Johor and was planning to create unrest in several countries in the region.

A massive operation was launched by the Special Branch with the help of other police departments here. The month-long operation paid off when Mas Selamat who is said to be the leader of the Jemaah Islamiah (JI) in Singapore was arrested. Police also seized documents and other paraphernalia that allegedly revealed their planned operation.

Mas Selamat was arrested in February 2006 and was sent to Singapore for investigations before he escaped in February last year. The facts are plainly Indonesia caught Mas Selamat handed him over to Singapore, Singapore lost him and couldn't find him, and Malaysian authorities caught him in April in Johor. Yesterday's Straits Times had these headlines about "Singapore's role arrest" and "Lead came from Singapore" . It was as if Malaysian authorities were guided by Singapore to capture Mas Selamat. Strange isn't it....because Singapore home affairs ministry seemed to believe that he had escaped to Indonesia.

A H1N1 @ Swine flu: Travel Health Warning

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sat, 02 May 2009 11:14:00 +0000

It’s tough to escape swine flu headlines these days. You may be wondering what this flu outbreak means for travel. Here’s what you need to know.

First, we urge travellers to remain calm and to stay informed. Learn what the various alerts and warnings mean for you. For example, the WHO’s alert status is now at level 5-6. This means simply that human-to-human transmission has occurred in more than one country. Level 6, the ‘pandemic’ phase, means that human-to-human transmission has occurred in more than one global region. It does not imply anything like universal transmission.

Similarly, many people have been concerned about the state of emergency declared in the USA and some US states. It’s important to note that a state of emergency is a legal term that defines what the government can and cannot do in specific situations. Nations declare states of emergency in order to access funds and other resources to respond to risks. A state of emergency is not an invitation to panic.

We don’t think that fear and panic are particularly helpful - but we certainly do advise prudence and caution. The WHO continues to emphasise that no restrictions on travel are necessary. However, the Centers for Disease Control advise reconsidering nonessential travel to Mexico.

So far none cases reported in Indonesia. All traveller are save to visit Indonesia.

How to improve your Alexa Ranking?

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 23:58:00 +0000

Alexa Internet, Inc. is a California-based subsidiary company of Amazon.com that is best known for operating a website that provides information on web traffic to other websites.

Alexa ranks your site according to how many people visit your site with a strong emphasis on those who have their Alexa Tool Bar installed. The problem that lies with this method alone is that the people who do not have the toolbar that visit your site may not be counted.

So the first and foremost thing to do is to Place an Alexa.com widget/plugin or chart on your website. By doing this, it logs your visitors even if they don’t have a toolbar.

The next thing to do is to install the Alexa toolbar on your own computer and kindly ask your readers to do the same.

Now all you have to do now, is to write quality content so you can get a decent search engine positioning and page views that you need.

Although these will not make your web site an overnight success, using them over a long period of time will improve your web site's ranking in no time.

Earth Day : Let's keep the earth habitable

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 05:54:00 +0000

On April 22 we will celebrate earth Day. It has been almost four decades since the first earth Day was celebrated, but many of us are still unaware of the fragility of the earth. We still behave as if the earth's resources are unlimited. The human population is still growing. Many of us are still dreaming of having luxurious lives. Governments always pursue economic growth and we have apparently forgotten that we have only one earth to live on.

It is the only planet in the universe which provides all the resources we need, and which recycles or keeps the waste we produce - and its capacity is limited. Our survival depends on the health of our earth. Whenever the earth fails to function properly, our survival is put in jeopardy.

Human activities have two kinds of impact on the earth.

First, as we draw resources to meet our biological needs and to run our social activities, we deplete natural resources. Some resources, such as oil, are not renewable. Other resources are renewable, so they will regenerate again after having been harvested. Often, however, we consume renewable resources faster than the earth can replenish them. For example, we cut down forests faster than we replant them or let them grow naturally.

Second, we produce waste. Some wastes, such as food leftovers, are easily biodegradable. For example, if we throw putrid food out into our backyard, some creatures will happily consume it. However, our production of biodegradable waste often exceeds the capacity of natural ecosystems to recycle it, and this creates a big problem in every big city. Some wastes are not easily recyclable but not toxic, and others are highly toxic or have radioactive properties. When there is too much waste to be recycled or contained in safe places, then our environment will be unsuitable for us to live in.

Both resource depletion and environmental pollution jeopardize our survival. We must, therefore, prevent both from happening. The key is to keep resources consumption and waste production at minimum levels, without jeopardizing our quality of life.

If we follow the familiar slogan "reduce, reuse, recycle", we can do a lot to help save the earth. To reduce the consumption of electricity in the house we can design houses with plenty of sunlight and good air circulation.

The new group, bike to work, is another good example of how we can reduce energy consumption. Cycling does create carbon dioxide, but much less than that produced by a vehicle burning gasoline. Many diseases associated with sedentary lifestyles and problems of global warming could be avoided if we use to the bicycle as our primary mode of transportation.

We can further alleviate the pollution problem by reusing utensils several times. Using reusable plates and cups is much better for the environment than using disposable ones. Of course, disposable dishes are more practical, but they will pollute our environment. Recent studies also show that Styrofoam, used widely for disposable fast food containers, is also bad for our health. If we must use disposable utensils, then we should recycle them.

Many items, such as metal and plastic, can be recycled. Some people even make profits by recycling waste. We can also recycle organic wastes and use them for compost.

It is not an easy task to ask people to behave environmentally correctly. We have long known about environmental pollution and resource depletion, but we have not adjusted our behavior to prevent these problems. This is partly psychological and partly ignorance. Our mind is not sensitive to gradual changes and most ecological phenomena do not occur immediately.

Global warming, for example, has been known about by scientists for several decades, but has only recently gained global attention. Even today, many people have not done enough to prevent global warming because we have not felt its effects. Those who have made efforts to reduce global warming must be convinced of the danger of global warming.

Education is therefore key to keeping the earth habitable for humans. Our knowledge can guide us to decide on what we should do to prevent ecological disasters, although our physical perceptions have apparently failed to detect the danger so far.

Not only school children, but also politicians must be educated, because they have the power to control the exploitation of natural resources. The Environment Ministry, scientists and environmental activists must make concerted efforts to get politicians well informed in ecology. If they have a good knowledge of ecology, members of parliament and heads of regions will not issue regulations that are detrimental to the environment.

In addition to teaching ecology we also need to promote environmental ethics to government officials and the general public. An ethic would serve as a standard, which government policies or people could refer to and be accountable to.

Tribal and local wisdom regarding environmental management needs to be revived and protected. Religious teaching needs to include environmental ethics too. Religious foundations can become strong driving forces to motivate people. Even if people have not practiced religious teachings, at least they know what they should have done and would feel guilty for not having done so.

We have only one earth to live on. We must do our best to keep it habitable, otherwise we will disappear.

Contribute by head of the Forestry Department at the University of Bengkulu

MUSIC MONDAY - Scorpions - Wind Of Change

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:24:00 +0000

Few months I'm busy with election. These is one of my most favorites videos mixes in 4 languages I love it. Indonesia still a dream this wind of changes "Where the children of tomorrow share their dreams". Hope the resent Election will change our dream to reality.

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.

Woow

Indonesia is home to three of the world's most endangered species

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 05:20:00 +0000

The Worldwide Fund for Nature's (WWF) so-called 9 to Watch in 2009 includes three species that are indigenous to this country. According to the international environmental group, the Javan rhinoceros, the Sumatran tiger and the Borneo pygmy elephant are among the animals closest to extinction.
WWF scientists say these, and many other species, are at greater risk than ever before because of poaching, habitat loss and climate change-related threats.

At the top of the list is the Javan rhinoceros, of which there are apparently less than 60 still surviving in the wild. This is probably the rarest large mammal species in the world and is critically endangered. Poaching and pressure from a growing human population pose the greatest risk to the two protected areas where they live.

In Indonesia to find the creature that's fourth most likely to disappear forever: The much-reported Sumatran tiger, of which it is estimated that less than 500 are in existence today.Accelerating deforestation and rampant poaching could push the Sumatran tiger to the same fate as its now-extinct Javan and Balinese relatives in other parts of Indonesia. Tigers are poached for their body parts, which are used in traditional Chinese medicine; skins also are highly prized. Environmentalists are researching the Sumatran tiger population using camera traps, conducting anti-poaching patrols and working to reduce human-tiger conflict as the cat's habitat shrinks. Through the efforts of WWF and its partners, the Indonesian government in 2008 doubled the size of Tesso Nilo National Park, which is a critical tiger habitat.

Few species have edged so close to extinction as the black-footed ferret and recovered, but through captive breeding and reintroduction, there are signs the species is slowly recovering. Borneo's pygmy elephant is the seventh most likely to die out with less than 1,000 left.These smallest of all elephants must compete with logging and agriculture for space in the lowland forests of Borneo. Projects are underway to try to ensure their protection, which includes tracking the elephants through the use of satellite collars to learn more about these little-understood creatures.

~Thank You~

Kisahberuang.com

Malaysia New PM : It’s difficult to separate Malaysia and Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:23:00 +0000

One of Indonesia’s closest neighbors, Malaysia, has just witnessed the inauguration of Najib Razak as the country’s sixth prime minister. Speaking in an interview with Indonesian journalists, including The Jakarta Post’s Primastuti Handayani, at his office in Putrajaya, outside Kuala Lumpur, Razak highlighted the importance of improving the love-hate ties between the two countries. The following are excerpts from the interview.

Question: How do you see the economic relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia, especially during a global economic crisis like this?

Answer: We are currently focusing on the investment and integration of the two countries’ economies. We will advance bilateral ties both ways. We welcome Indonesian investment in Malaysia, such as in the hotel industry like the Sheraton Imperial and Westin Langkawi, while Indonesia has also welcomed Malaysian investment, especially in oil palm plantations.

We also have a strategic investment, especially in power plants. For example, the Bakun [hydroelectric] power plant [on the Balui River, Sarawak, Malaysia]: The power plant is expected to supply power to the Malaysia peninsula and also to Kalimantan. It will have a large impact [on the economy]...There has been a feasibility study on building a bridge connecting Sumatra and Malacca by the
private sector.The global economic crisis has also hit both Malaysia and Indonesia. The Malaysian government plans to inject a financial stimulus [worth US$16.2 billion] to stimulate domestic demand.

How bad is the impact of the crisis on Indonesian migrant workers?

Malaysia is willing to discuss migrant workers with Indonesia because it’s an important issue for both countries. Many Malaysian employers are no longer able to afford Indonesian workers. Many in the private sector have expressed hope that they will not have to lay the workers off. We hope the incentives given by the government will help the private sector not to lay off the Indonesian workers. I talked to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono two nights ago about the condition and he understood [the issue] well.We will not tolerate Malaysian employers who abuse their Indonesian maids. We must respect workers’ rights.

How about the security cooperation between Malaysia and its neighbors?

On the external front, we don’t really have threats. Internally, there are some militant groups, but we have managed to curb them. If there is a militant leader from Indonesia, we can also monitor him well. The last case was Abu Bakar Baashir, who recruited Malaysians like Noordin Moh. Top and Azahari. But that’s not a good example.There should also be a better arrangement among countries in the Malacca Strait to deal with rampant piracy in the area.

The transition of power from Abdullah Badawi to yourself went smoothly, although you face tough challenges such as internal ethnic conflicts and an economic recession. How do you deal with it?

My priority is to implement

“One Malaysia, people first, performance now”.“One Malaysia” emphasizes mutual respect and trust. The feeling of trust with one another should be built consciously, to create national unity. There should be no group that feels left behind in the process. It doesn’t mean we will erase the affirmative action overnight.“People first” means we are not an elitist government. The government should not be pro big corporations. There should be less formality and no red carpet.“Performance now” means the people want to see our immediate actions.

Has democratization in Indonesia been a major influence on Malaysia?

Both countries have different political systems. In the long run, there should be a political discourse, a dialogue to see development in Malaysia and Indonesia.Democracy in Indonesia has leaped far from the previously controlled system to a free, or too free, system and there has been a move to bring it back under control.
Democracy in Malaysia is shown by freedom with responsibility… [or else] it can become anarchy.For example, the move to supervise the ISA [Internal Security Act] to create civil liberty … I have released 13 detainees charged with the ISA, to show the government has put forward civil liberty.

How would you deal with the relationship of our two countries, a relationship that is like that of siblings often embroiled in dispute?

We must improve the level of comfort between Indonesia and Malaysia.It doesn’t apply only on the top level between the two countries’ leaders, between Pak SBY and me, or back then between Pak JK [Vice President Jusuf Kalla] and me, but also with other groups, including the media, to support me as a
Malaysian leader.I hope the message can be accepted by different groups in Indonesia. Sometimes the media have been provocative in covering issues between the two countries.We should not be in negative competition. We must see the glory of Malaysia means.Indonesia’s glory too, and vice versa. By assisting each other, both countries will get positive aspects from the relationship.

Malaysian leaders have good ties with Indonesian leaders like SBY, JK and former president Megawati Soekarnoputri. What would the relationship be like if Indonesia had a new leader?

There should be a continuation in the relationship between both countries.We must understand that Indonesia plays a very important role for Malaysia, and it is not just because of strategic considerations. Indonesia and Malaysia have similarities in culture, religion and emotions.

It’s difficult to separate the two countries.

Get ready to vote tomorrow : Kampanye Damai Pemilu Indonesia 2009

Resource : TheJakartaPost

Kampanye Damai Pemilu Indonesia 2009

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 11:15:00 +0000

The open election campaign period has come to an end, and now we enter the cooling-off period. It’s time for voters to think and make an informed decision. The voters have to decide their choice on 9 April 2009.

The past three weeks of open campaigning proceeded peacefully. No blood was shed, and no skirmishes between supporters of political parties were reported. Reports have it that open campaigning this time was less festive and drew fewer crowds than in the previous elections. Many people came to the campaign rallies for the free ride, free meals and, most importantly, free entertainment by famous musicians and bands that they could otherwise not afford to attend.

These positive facts indicate that our people have gained a better political awareness than before, and are becoming more rational in their allegiance to political parties and leaders. The three weeks of open campaigning also showed us that only a handful of political parties – out of 38 parties (44 in Aceh) – made any significant impression on the people and made their voices heard. According to some surveys, less than 10 parties will pass the 2.5 percent legislative threshold to be able to send their representatives to the House of Representatives in Senayan. It’s good for our democracy, to streamline the number of parties and to make the governing more effective.

On this positive note, we use this opportunity to take stock of what remains to be done in the next few days to make our legislative elections another success story. The most pressing issue is the shoddy preparation for the April 9 balloting day. Elections commissions in some regencies and municipalities have asked for more ballots to replace what they claim are damaged ballots. Worse, some regencies have not received ballots altogether, including some in Maluku.

We hope the General Elections Commission (KPU) will prepare emergency measures in case the ballots do not reach certain areas on time. It should be flexible enough to move back the date of balloting day for those areas.

The voter lists are also problematic. While some parties have pointed to lists that feature “ghost” voters, some have also pointed out that many of their constituents are not on the official lists. We recognize the KPU has made several changes to the voter lists. However, as we don’t have a reliable national registry for our citizens, the existing voter lists can still create problems in the future, especially from the losing parties. The best way for the KPU to handle this issue of tampered voter lists is to report the results of the elections as transparently as possible, and show the public in a credible way that its system does not allow for any “ghost” voters to cast ballots.

The next issue is security. Although the three weeks of open campaigning were relatively peaceful – thanks to the police and political parties and their supporters – we need to raise the issue of the worsening security situation in Aceh.

Aceh needs special attention. A number of people have been shot dead, with most of the shootings reportedly related to the elections. Hatred and prejudice still run deep between members of the Indonesian Military and former rebels now governing the territory and contesting the elections through local parties.

We hope the police can improve the security situation ahead of the elections and on polling day, especially in Aceh, so that people can cast their ballots without any pressure or fear.

Good Luck to my brother who is one of the candidate for legislative elections and I always support Kampanye Damai Pemilu Indonesia 2009.

60 Earth Hour : Your Light Switch Is Your VOTE

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 02:09:00 +0000

This year, Earth Hour has been transformed into the world’s first global election, between Earth and global warming.

For the first time in history, people of all ages, nationalities, race and background have the opportunity to use their light switch as their vote – Switching off your lights is a vote for Earth, or leaving them on is a vote for global warming. WWF are urging the world to VOTE EARTH and reach the target of 1 billion votes, which will be presented to world leaders at the Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen 2009.
This meeting will determine official government policies to take action against global warming, which will replace the Kyoto Protocol. It is the chance for the people of the world to make their voice heard.

Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007, when 2.2 million homes and businesses switched off their lights for one hour. In 2008 the message had grown into a global sustainability movement, with 50 million people switching off their lights. Global landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Rome’s Colosseum, the Sydney Opera House and the Coca Cola billboard in Times Square all stood in darkness.

In 2009, Earth Hour is being taken to the next level, with the goal of 1 billion people switching off their lights as part of a global vote. Unlike any election in history, it is not about what country you’re from, but instead, what planet you’re from. VOTE EARTH is a global call to action for every individual, every business, and every community. A call to stand up and take control over the future of our planet. Over 74 countries and territories have pledged their support to VOTE EARTH during Earth Hour 2009, and this number is growing everyday.

We all have a vote, and every single vote counts. Together we can take control of the future of our planet, for future generations.

VOTE EARTH by simply switching off your lights for one hour, and join the world for Earth Hour.

Saturday, March 28, 8:30-9:30pm.

~Thank You~

Shema - My Sweet escape

Porn Law & Indonesian Sexy Celebrity Blog.

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 08:38:00 +0000

In October last year, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono signed the highly controversial porn bill into law amid protests by Bali, other provinces and scores of civil society groups. The porn law itself remains a sensitive issue among Balinese and the provincial government who continue to voice their objections to the law. Opposition parties took jabs, ensuring the pornography law issue will become a central theme in legislative election. Hope they can really campaign in peace to support our Kampanye Damai Pemilu Indonesia 2009.

Be proportional. Since the early debate of the pornography law in 2006, I was already of the view that such legislation was needed, as pornographic blog, DVDs and magazines were easily accessible to teenagers. This was dangerous, as it might have stimulated them to be sexually active.

However, it should be clarified and affirmed that the definition of “pornography” cannot be translated to include our local traditions that have existed for hundred of years – even before the establishment of the Republic of Indonesia with its motto “unity in diversity”, nor, for example, should it include women wearing bikinis or ballet clothes. If we deem such cases pornography, it is because our own minds are pornographic.

Only irresponsible men deny moral law formation. They only think about their own freedom, and do not think about the safety of the common people.

I don't know whether sexy artist blog also consider as pornographic blog but I love to vist few Indonesian Sexy artist blog such as 10 Top Artis Indonesia Terseksi, Indonesia Sexy Celebrity Blog and Artis Cantik Indonesia.

~THANK YOU~

Indonesian Election : Kampanye Damai Pemilu Indonesia 2009

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:54:00 +0000

~THANK YOU~

Words of LOVE

Accept reality of prolonged financial crisis

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 04:39:00 +0000

We must accept the reality that the global financial crisis is expected to prolong till next 1@2 years. We are no longer in a comfort zone.Using the football analogy, we are defending the ball which is now in the penalty box, there were almost daily reports of retrenchments, cash flow problems and bankruptcy in major markets worldwide.

Economic indicators in Europe, Japan and the United States were reflecting a prolonged crisis which would not end this year. Since Indonesia is plugged into the international economy, we cannot expect to be spared the ill effects.

Europe, the United States and Japan have accepted the reality. I think Indonesia must accept it too.In such a stormy climate, We must stand united regardless of race, religion, political or ideological differences as only through a united stand could the future generation reap the benefits.

We are also must have our own stimulas plan for our family to accept the reality. I will maximize broadband and wireless and focus online marketing to earn extra income and reduce my expenses. I will also participate more blog contest such as Kampanye Damai Pemilu Indonesia 2009 contest.

Do you have a Personal Economic Stimulus Plan in place?

~THANK YOU~

Wonderful Things In Life

10 Ways To Survive Without a Bailout

noreply@blogger.com (bonoriau) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:40:00 +0000

I just love reading the article by Yahoo Finance on 10 ways to survive without a Bailout. It give me some great ideas to handle current global economic down turn. Most of the ideas not need extra budget and very interesting especially no. 3. I just want add one more no.11. Here I share 10 ways to survive without a Bailout.

1. Fix something. Look around your house. There are plenty of things that don't work right. You used to pay somebody else to fix things like this, or just trash the offending gizmo and buy another one. But now you're cutting back on extravagances. So find the manual, or download it, and tackle the job yourself.

2. Learn how we got into this mess. A better understanding of what happened won't end the recession, but it will make you a lot smarter about your financial life and other decisions in the future.

3. Have more sex. Consumer confidence is dismal, and we need something to feel good about. Why not sex? If done right, it will take your mind off your dwindling retirement fund or your precarious job prospects. Another bonus: If you have a partner, it ought to be free. And if you don't have a partner, well, you didn't get this advice

4. Start a blog. Feel like adding your voice to the growing national rant? If your friends like what you have to say, your blog will gain popularity. If they don't, then it's better that you channel your vituperations into cyberspace anyway. And there's a good chance you'll discover other bloggers who feel the same way you do.

5. Solve a problem. We've all become experts at complaining about the problems. How about solving one? Start small. Mediate a family spat or help a struggling student raise his grade by a notch. So do a little something now instead of waiting for a universal solution to materialize later.

6. Make a movie. Decent digital videocameras cost less than $200, and less than $100 used. Software for adding background music and special effects is cheap, or free. Your movie doesn't have to be great - in fact, it probably won't be. But it will fire up some synapses that have been dormant or dedicated to worry, and it will be fun to see it on YouTube. Combine with No. 3 above, and you'll discover the most profitable industry on the Internet.

7. Stop using clichés. Please, no more economic tsunamis or Ponzi schemes for awhile.

8. Innovate. Come up with a better way of doing something. You don't need a business plan or investors, just some keen observational powers and a bit of cleverness. Maybe there's a better way to clean up after your dog. Or get your groceries home without using plastic bags. Or plan a week's worth of school lunches for your kids. When you feel like you've actually done it, say so in your blog or just mention it to friends. Even if you don't get paid for it, you'll find it satisfying. And who knows, you might discover the kernel of a business idea.

9. Babysit for a working Mom. Everybody's got it tough. They've got it tougher. Just an hour or two of extra childcare per week could ease a great deal of stress. Tell yourself you're doing it for the children of the world. If you really want to be a saint, do it for a single working Mom.

10. Help fix capitalism. Spend your money smarter. Pay as you go. Ask a million dumb questions until you're sure you understand what you're getting into. Take intelligent risks, but ask yourself what could possibly go wrong - and have a plausible backup plan in case they do. Shame the deadbeats by outperforming and outmaneuvering them. Most of all, solve your own problems instead of hoping that somebody else will. Because there will never be a bailout big enough to cover everybody.

11. Spend more time with GOD. So far we work so hard and distance ourselve to GOD. Now the time to spend more of our time with GOD and pray all the problem will solve as soon as possible.

~THANK YOU~