Jokowi, Duterte to launch Indonesian-Philippines sea route – Jakarta Post

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Jakarta, public outpouring of affection and gratitude for Ahok

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» 04/29/2017, 12.56

INDONESIA

Mathias Hariyadi

Citizens want to express their admiration. Each day thousands go to the town hall. The area in front of the palace flooded with signposts and floral decorations. Radical Islamist group's initiatives against the Christian governor continue. On 9 May the verdict of the blasphemy trial. Ahok: "Disliked and hated because of my faith and my ideas."

Jakarta (AsiaNews) - Thousands of Indonesians are expressing their affection and gratitude to governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama and his deputy Djarot Saiful Hidayat for their work in the Grand Jakarta (DKI Jakarta).

On April 19, Ahok failed to win the second round of the most intense and controversial elections in the country's history, defeated by rival Anies Baswedan. Since then, many of his supporters have expressed their admiration for the Christian governor, who will leave his post in October. For so many Indonesians, he is the symbol of courageous and clean administration dedicated to the development of the city and to the improvement of the people's well-being.

In recent days, Jakarta City Hall has become a tourist attraction. Since April 27, every day, thousands of people from all over the country travel to the government building. As the governor performs his duties, they wait patiently for their turn to meet and take pictures with Ahok. The large number of people visiting the office has prompted security personnel to create a set of rules for those wishing to send their greetings to the governor. Visitors are required to take a number, stand in a row and mark their hands after taking pictures, to prevent them from reuniting with the queue.

Since April 25, the area in front of the palace has been flooded with flowers and decorations sent by citizens as a sign of solidarity with the outgoing administration. On April 27, the numbers rose rapidly to more than 2,000 and forced the authorities to transfer many of them to the Monas National Monument in downtown Jakarta.

While on the one hand the public affection of Ahok has increased, on the other hand, the initiatives of radical Islamist groups against him do not stop. Yesterday, Jakarta police deployed 4,600 agents in the wake of a demonstration of Islamists. They demand that the Jakarta court condemn the Christian Governor, in the manipulated blasphemy case that has been dragging on for months. The 1,500 participants attending the rally, organized by the National Movement to Safeguard the Indonesian Ulema Council's Fatwa (Gnpf-Mui) extremist movement, marched throughthe streets of Jakarta from the Istiqlal Mosque to the tribunal.

The verdict of the trial is scheduled for May 9th. During the last hearing of April 25, Ahok declared himself victim of an orchestrated case of defamation. He told the judges that, as governor, he worked only to improve people's well-being. "I will continue to help the poor and needy, though defamed and hated because of my faith and my ideas. I will continue to serve [the citizens] with love, "Ahok told the court.

See also

13/12/2016 09:53:00 INDONESIAJakarta, blasphemy trial against Christian governor opens

The Jakarta Court North, dismissed the charge against Ahok of insulting Islam during a rally. Thousands of onlookers flocked to the event. The defense claims that the governor had lashed out at Muslim politicians who wanted to hinder his re-election as governor, but his words were manipulated.

05/04/2017 15:21:00 INDONESIAAhok on trial, video that indicted Christian governor 'unacceptable'

It will not be screened in any of the upcoming hearings. The edited movie is now part of a criminal case against its speaker. Ahok offers an apology for the case of blasphemy orchestrated against him. Ceaseless attacks of the extremist Muslim organizations. The security forces arrest five Islamist leaders for treason.

24/11/2016 12:08:00 INDONESIAJakarta arrests instigator of the protests against Christian governor

Buni Yani, a former journalist and professor of communication, is accused of having manipulated the words of Ahok and having incited the radical Muslim groups. A petition calling for his prosecution has collected more than 100 thousand signatures. The fundamentalists promise more protests on 2 December.

13/03/2017 15:03:00 INDONESIAMuslim supporters of Christian governor denied funeral

Banners and notices have been displayed in several Jakarta mosques. Police are investigating the matter. Concerned, Religious Affairs minister calls refusals "unislamic"." The election campaign was marked by acts of intolerance by Islamists against Ahok and his supporters. Tensions are building ahead of the second round of voting in April. Moderate Muslims react.

12/10/2016 17:49:00 INDONESIAJakarta's "blasphemous" Christian governor kicks up a storm

The politician said that the Qur'an should not be used for non-religious purposes. Indonesia's main Islamic groups accuse him of defaming Islam. The campaign to discredit him continues ahead of the upcoming election.

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In his address to Egyptian authorities, Francis stressed Egypt's role and responsibility in the future of the region. "In the fragile and complex situation of today's world, which I have described as 'a world war being fought piecemeal', it needs to be clearly stated that no civilized society can be built without repudiating every ideology of evil, violence and extremism that presumes to suppress others and to annihilate diversity by manipulating and profaning the Sacred Name of God."

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He admires the charity shown by the pontiff towards Syrian Muslim refugees, and his push in favour of love and against hatred. Islamic scholars are not like this, he says, they do not denounce Daesh's hatred and do nothing for Christians. He calls on the pontiff to press President to Sisi and Al Azhar to reform Islam. Without this Al Azhar risks being the academy of world fundamentalism. Here is the letter from our friend and collaborator Kamel Abderrahmani.

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Source: Jakarta, public outpouring of affection and gratitude for Ahok

Jakarta subdistricts open for health insurance registration – Jakarta Post

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Muslim candidate leading in Jakarta poll pledges to safeguard unity

Indonesian prosecutors on Thursday recommended a one-year suspended jail sentence for Jakarta's Christian governor in his blasphemy trial, which has been seen as a test of the Muslim-majority nation's religious tolerance.

The governor apologised but Indonesia's highest clerical body declared the remarks blasphemous and urged authorities to bring charges.

In the lead-up to the election hardline groups have warned Muslims they won't be prayed for upon their death if they vote for a non-Muslim.

The lesser term means Ahok will be able to hold onto office and help with a peaceful transition of the office to governor-elect Anies Baswedan until the judges hand down their decision in the case.

"We celebrate diversity. We are all ready to work together again", he said.

But Widodo - a mild-mannered former furniture salesman known by the nickname Jokowi - remains popular for his efforts to cut red tape, boost small business and upgrade the country's aging infrastructure.The Jakarta election "creates momentum for Prabowo for sure", said Yohanes Sulaiman, a lecturer at Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani in Bandung, Indonesia.

"There was this grandma who died and she voted for Ahok and she was (reportedly) denied Muslim funeral rights", Tobias Basuki, a researcher at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, an Indonesian think tank, told CNN. "He just couldn't get past that".

U.S. sets up missile defence in South KoreaOn Monday, Trump called North Korea a global threat and "a problem that we have to finally solve". Jang Wook from South Korean navy public affairs said there was no plan for a drill.

Payments from Russian Federation kept secretThat briefing also produced this wonderful quote from Chaffetz regarding Flynn: "I see no data to support the notion that Gen. Flynn as fired earlier this year after misleading Vice President Mike Pence about conversations with the Russian ambassador.

Gareon Conley accused of rape; lawyer denies allegationsThe attorney said he is willing to bring his client in to be interviewed by police, but not right away. The woman claims she first encountered Conley in a hotel elevator around 3 a.m.

"As long as there are no security issues, the election outcome should not significantly stall the reform programme of the national government, in our view", it said.

"Religion has become politicized", said Fajrina Maya, 23, a campaign volunteer. Millions of Indonesians in the capital are electing a governor Wednesday after a polarizing campaign that undermined the country's reputation for practicing a tolerant form of Islam. Hardline Islamists are now in control of Indonesia's capital, a worrying change for foreign investors.

Purnama's troubles began in September when he lightheartedly said in a speech that his rivals were tricking people into voting against him by using a Koranic verse, which some interpret as meaning Muslims should only choose Muslim leaders. A video clip of the comment went viral, and sparked protests in Jakarta.

But his brash manner and evictions of slum communities alienated many in the city of 10 million.

Unofficial results showed he won about 40% of the vote, roughly the same as in the first round of the election in February, indicating that he did not attract additional support in a city that is 80% Muslim. A third candidate, Agus Yudhoyono, took 17%.

Police have warned that any physical or psychological intimidation is illegal, while President Joko Widodo has called for calm.

Uno, meanwhile, called for unity saying: "Let's forget the past months, let's look at the victorious five years ahead for Jakarta". "Remember, we are all brothers and sisters".

Source: Muslim candidate leading in Jakarta poll pledges to safeguard unity

Jakarta to host first Good Pitch2 Southeast Asia event

Directed by Baby Ruth Villarama, 'Sunday Beauty Queen' tells of the hidden lives and struggles of Filipino domestic workers in Hong Kong. (goodpitch2sea.org/File)

Good Pitch2 (Good Pitch Squared) Southeast Asia, the first installment of a regional program that draws together curated documentary filmmakers and change-makers, is slated to take place at GoetheHaus in Central Jakarta on May 4.

The one-day event will feature four social justice documentary films, namely Song for My Children by Shalahuddin Siregar from Indonesia, Intuition by Yong Shu Ling from Singapore, Sunday Beauty Queen by Baby Ruth Villarama from the Philippines, and Audio Perpetua by Universe Baldoza from the Philippines.

All the films tell stories about people from Southeast Asia. Sunday Beauty Queen, for instance, tells of the hidden lives and struggles of Filipino domestic workers in Hong Kong. In the film, five of the workers give themselves a makeover for a day and gleefully reclaim their dignity.

Meanwhile, Intuition follows a young woman on a mission to transform learning in classrooms in Singapore.

Read also: Two Indonesian documentaries to join Good Pitch regional program

A still from 'Song For My Children' by Shalahuddin Siregar.(in-docs.org/File)

The selected filmmakers received training in storytelling and how to create an impact strategy for their films in December last year. During the May event, they will collaborate with selected change-makers from different fields for their projects, such as Amnesty International, the ASEAN Foundation, the Creative Economy Agency (Bekraf) and the British Council Indonesia.

Organized by the non-profit organization In-Docs and Singapore-based youth projects organization Jia Foundation, Good Pitch was initiated by the non-profit film foundation BRITDOC and the Sundance Film Institute in 2009. Prior to Jakarta, the event was previously hosted in the United Kingdom, the United States, South Africa, Taiwan, Argentina, Kenya and Australia. (kes)

Source: Jakarta to host first Good Pitch2 Southeast Asia event

First Jakarta-Los Angeles cargo route launched in Tanjung Priok

Indonesia's main shipping gateway, Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta, launched the first ever route connecting Jakarta and Los Angeles in the United States to boost its strategic standing as an international seaport.

The weekly route, which includes stops in Laem Chabang, Thailand, and Cai Cep, Vietnam, before ultimately arriving in the United States for stops in both Los Angeles and Oakland in the San Francisco Bay Area, saw higher volume shipments during its first trial operations on Apr. 9 and Apr. 16, state port operator Pelindo II stated on Sunday. 

Total loading and unloading volume in the past three weeks saw a continuous increase with an average of 2,100 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

(Read also: Tanjung Priok toll road open to traffic)

Pelindo II president director Elvyn G. Masassya said the route takes a maximum 23 days' voyage, faster than normal route times, which often exceed 30 days. He added it would also save 10 to 20 percent in costs compared to shipping via Singapore.

The freight rate was set at around US$1,700 per 40-foot equivalent unit while the container handling cost and transhipment cost was set at $83 per TEU and $56 per TEU, respectively.

The route, served by French shipping line CMA CGM, will deploy 17 container ships at a maximum window time of 24 hours.

CMA CGM Otello, with a capacity of 8,238 TEU, arrived at Tanjung Priok Port on Sunday, making it the biggest container ship to have docked in Indonesia.

"The arrival of this ship will hopefully encourage other lines and ships to stop at this competitive transhipment port in Asia," Elvyn said. (bbs)

Source: First Jakarta-Los Angeles cargo route launched in Tanjung Priok

Jakarta election: Ahok makes last appeal as polling booths open

Muslim women shows their ink-stained fingers after voting during the runoff election in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Wednesday. Photograph: Achmad Ibrahim/AP

Polls have opened in Indonesia's capital for what is expected to be a tight race to elect Jakarta's governor after campaigns riven by religious and racial tensions.

More than 7 million Jakartans are expected to vote in Wednesday's poll, a race that pits the ethnic Chinese Christian incumbent, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama – better known by his nickname Ahok – against the former education and culture minister Anies Baswedan.

Days out from the vote, two separate surveys showed just one point between them.

In the capital of the world's largest Muslim-majority nation, the election has been billed as a test of the country's pluralist traditions. If he wins, Ahok will be the first non-Muslim directly elected to the post.

Casting his vote alongside his wife and son this morning, Ahok wrote on Twitter that today's vote would determine Jakarta's fate, and that democracy should be celebrated.

As deputy Jakarta governor in 2014, Ahok inherited the governorship from Joko Widodo who won the presidential election that year.

Ahok, a brash and sometimes outspoken governor who has taken on big problems in Jakarta, such as flooding and corruption, has long angered religious hardliners.

Incumbent Jakarta governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, his wife Veronica and son Nicholas show their ballot papers at a polling station. Photograph: Bay Ismoyo/AFP/Getty Images

Last year the popular governor found himself embroiled in a blasphemy trial, after he cited a verse from the Koran, Al Maidah 51, telling voters they should not be deceived by religious leaders who claim Muslims cannot vote for Christians.

That case is ongoing – on Thursday Ahok will hear prosecutors read their sentencing demands in court – and it has significantly dented his popularity. Late last year Islamic hardliners staged several massive protests in the capital, while discrimination has percolated through neighbourhoods across the capital.

Critics have accused Ahok's rival, Anies Baswedan, of pandering to the Islamists, a charge he has repeatedly denied. A poll released last week by Saiful Manjani Research and Consulting showed that religious sentiment was the main reason voters were drawn to Baswedan.

In the neighbourhoods of Jakarta, banners claiming that Muslims who vote for Ahok will be denied burial rites have been strung up at local mosques.

On Monday a Facebook user was reported to police after he wrote that it was halal, or permissible, to rape women voting for the Chinese Christian incumbent.

A group, calling themselves the "Al Maidah tour", organised through a phone app, has encouraged Indonesians to "guard" more than 13,000 polling booths around the city. The government has warned people not to join the group, while police have banned mass rallies on voting day.

More than 60,000 military and police have been deployed across the city to ensure voting runs smoothly.

Source: Jakarta election: Ahok makes last appeal as polling booths open

Christian governor of Jakarta ousted after tense election in world's biggest Muslim country

In a campaign laced with religious and ethnic tensions, the minority Christian governor of Indonesia's sprawling capital was unseated by a former education minister backed by conservative Islamists, unofficial results showed Wednesday.

With nearly all the votes counted, polling companies said Anies Baswedan won about 60% of the vote in a runoff election to lead the city of 10 million people, soundly defeating incumbent Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, a Christian of Chinese descent.

The bitter campaign evolved into a test of ethnic and religious tolerance in the world's most populous Muslim nation, long seen as a bastion of moderate Islam.

Purnama, better known as Ahok, is facing blasphemy charges over remarks that allegedly insulted Islam's holy book, the Koran. Hundreds of thousands of Islamist demonstrators took to the streets during the campaign, demanding that Purnama be jailed.

Although Purnama was widely perceived as a problem-solving administrator who cleared riverside slums and shuttered brothels, his blunt, confrontational manner was at odds with the more diffident style of Indonesian politics.

Unofficial results showed he won about 40% of the vote, roughly the same as in the first round of the election in February, indicating that he did not attract additional support in a city that is 80% Muslim.

"If you look at the [preelection] surveys, Ahok gets 70% of people satisfied with his work, but when asked if you will vo te for Ahok the number drops to 40%," said Bonar Tigor Naipospos, vice chairman of the Setara Institute, a Jakarta research organization.

"It is because of the religious sentiment," Naipospos said.

The result was a blow to Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who preceded Purnama as the capital's governor. It came a day before Vice President Mike Pence was scheduled to visit Indonesia and meet with Widodo on the third leg of an Asian Pacific tour that includes South Korea, Japan and Australia.

Baswedan's margin of victory was a surprise, as polls in the week leading up to the runoff showed the candidates running neck and neck.

"Few would have predicted that it would be such a landslide victory," said Charlotte Setijadi of the ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute, a think tank in Singapore. "Pretty much all the preelection polling data suggested a much tighter race or even a stalemate."

Baswedan, who was fired in 2016 as Widodo's education minister, made a political comeback after allying with Islamists who staged mass demonstrations twice in late 2016 calling for Purnama's removal — and in some cases his execution.

The demonstr ations ended with Widodo joining protest leaders onstage under a Jakarta thunderstorm in early December in an apparent bid to neutralize the campaign against the governor.

Baswedan's aides denied that they pandered to religious hard-liners.

"We went back to focusing on unity, jobs, cost of living, education," said Sandiaga Uno, a businessman who will serve as deputy governor under Baswedan.

But asked about the tone of the campaign, Uno acknowledged, "It has been divisive, toward nasty."

Baswedan was supported by Prabowo Subianto, a former general whom Widodo defeated for president in 2014. Subianto is said to be eyeing a rerun of that contest in 2019.

But Widodo — a mild-mannered former furniture salesman known by the nickname Jokowi — remains popular for his efforts to cut red tape, boost small business and upgrade the country's aging infrastructure.The Jakarta election "creates momentum for Prabowo for sure," said Yohanes Sulaiman, a lecturer at Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani in Bandung, Indonesia. "But a major blow to Jokowi? Don't think so."

Roughneen is a special correspondent. Times staff writer Shashank Bengali contributed to this report from Mumbai, India.

Source: Christian governor of Jakarta ousted after tense election in world's biggest Muslim country

Indonesia prosecutors seek 2 years probation for Jakarta gov

JAKARTA, Indonesia –  Prosecutors are recommending two years of probation for the minority Christian governor of the Indonesian capital who is on trial for blaspheming the Quran.

The relatively light sentencing demand comes a day after Gov. Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama was swept out of office by a landslide election victory for a Muslim rival backed by conservative clerics.

The maximum penalty for blasphemy in Muslim-majority Indonesia is five years in prison.

Ahok was accused of blasphemy last year when a video surfaced of him telling voters they were being deceived if they believed a specific verse in the Quran prohibited Muslims from electing a non-Muslim as leader.

Hard-line Islamic groups attracted hundreds of thousands to anti-Ahok protests in Jakarta, shaking the government of President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo.

Source: Indonesia prosecutors seek 2 years probation for Jakarta gov

Early results show defeat for Jakarta's Christian governor

JAKARTA, Indonesia –  Preliminary election results show the minority Christian governor of the Indonesian capital has been resoundingly defeated by his Muslim challenger after a campaign that highlighted the country's religious and racial divides.

So called "quick counts" by 10 research companies show former Cabinet minister Anies Baswedan winning between 55 and 60 percent of votes with more than half of ballots counted.

Incumbent Gov. Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama is on trial for blasphemy and hundreds of thousands protested against him in Jakarta, deriding his Chinese ancestry and calling for him to be imprisoned or killed.

Baswedan courted the support of conservative clerics who opposed electing a non-Muslim.

The polarizing campaign has undermined Indonesia's reputation for practicing a moderate form of Islam.

Source: Early results show defeat for Jakarta's Christian governor

'Dirty' Jakarta election looms as religious politics resurfaces

Luar Batang is one of the Indonesian capital's oldest neighborhoods, founded in the 17th century to collect tolls from ships sailing in from the Java Sea when the city was the center of the Dutch East Indies spice trade.

Now, it is being demolished and many of its residents are being evicted to make way for a giant seawall meant to keep Jakarta from sinking under rising sea levels. That has made it ground zero for the election of the city's governor, dubbed one of the most divisive election campaigns Indonesia has ever seen.

The incumbent governor, Basuki "Ahok" Purnama, was cruising toward a decisive election victory last September when he allegedly criticized a verse from the Koran that warns Muslims against allying with Christians and Jews.

Hardline Islamist groups responded with mass protests demanding that Purnama, an ethnic Chinese and Christian, be prosecuted. Police eventually did charge him with blasphemy.

It was Purnama who ordered the evictio ns from Luar Batang's slums to make way for one of his many infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing this clogged and chaotic city.

Many of those who filled the streets of Jakarta to protest against him late last year were among the displaced, and violence broke out in Luar Batang after one of those demonstrations.

Luar Batang residents had just about given up their fight against evictions when the controversy over the Koran comments erupted, said one woman who did not want to be named, sitting outside a small shack amid the rubble.

"We see it as a gift from God," she said, describing the slur as a means to bring down Purnama.

NECK AND NECK RACE

Opinion surveys show Purnama running neck and neck with his challenger Anies Baswedan, who, like some 85 percent of Jakartans, is a Muslim.

Purnama, 50, inherited the governorship after Joko Widodo was elected president in 2014. His brash talking style, a contrast with the soft-spoken Javanese politicians who dominate the ruling class, has grated on some voters.

Purnama won the first round of voting in February in a three-way race with 43 percent of the ballots to set up Wednesday's second round with Basedan, who won 40 percent.

The campaign has been "the dirtiest, most polarizing and most divisive the nation has ever seen," the Jakarta Post said in an editorial on Tuesday.

Calling the capital "the barometer of Indonesia's political pulse", the daily said the election would have a bearing on the next presidential election in 2019.

Police on Monday blocked plans by hardline Islamist groups to guard polling booths, citing the risk of clashes after a campaign fraught with religious tensions, and said around 66,000 police and military personnel will be deployed on voting day.

'VOTER FRAUD'

Prabowo Subianto, head of the Gerindra Party that Baswedan represents, said in a video message recorded over the weekend that "religious people need a leader who respects their beliefs". Prabowo lost the 2014 election to President Widodo.

Purnama faces up to five years in jail if convicted of blasphemy. His trial will resume on Thursday, when prosecutors will submit their sentence request.

Prabowo said he was concerned about potential voter fraud.

"Cheating is a common enemy to us. We don't want to cheat," he said. "However, we will not hold back if we are cheated."

Hardline Islamic cleric Habib Rizieq, who helped organize the anti-Purnama demonstrations during the campaign, last week urged Muslims to travel to Jakarta and be ready to "finish" their opponents.

"This is not a battle between Anies and Ahok. This is a battle between ... defenders of Islam and those who blaspheme against Islam," Rizieq said at an event in the city of Surabaya.

"Those who can come to Jakarta better have the guts to do so and prepare a will for your family," he added, as the crowd roared in response.

At Luar Batang, where Prabowo's party has set up tents for those evicted from their homes, the woman at the street cafe said people are tired of politicians' false promises and warned that frustration could boil over if Purnama wins the vote.

"If (Purnama) is elected again something extraordinary will happen," she said.

(Editing by Bill Tarrant)

Source: 'Dirty' Jakarta election looms as religious politics resurfaces

Newly opened Hooters Jakarta boasts family-friendly sports bar concept

Compared to its other outlets, Hooters Jakarta appears to be more family-friendly as it applies a no smoking rule and has no age restriction. http://bit.ly/2psWxfx

Newly opened Hooters Jakarta boasts family-friendly sports bar concept

American restaurant chain Hooters, known for its sexy waitresses, officially opened its first outlet in Kemang, South Jakarta, on March 24.

Source

Some local news is curated - Original might have been posted at a different date/ time! Click the source link for details.
Source: Newly opened Hooters Jakarta boasts family-friendly sports bar concept

Police investigate car fire near FPI gathering in East Jakarta

Police are continuing to investigate the burning of a car in the vicinity of a tabligh akbar (mass prayer event) organized by the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) in Cawang, East Jakarta, in the early hours of Sunday morning.

"We have gathered statements from several witnesses as part of the investigation," said Comr. Wasiem, East Jakarta Police spokesperson on Sunday, as quoted by wartakota.tribunnews.com.

Wasiem said the car caught fire and exploded on Jl. MT Haryono after midnight. Members of the congregation extinguished the fire and examined two other cars that were parked near the scene of the fire.

(Read also: FPI head urges judges to detain Ahok)

"People found a jerry can, which is believed to have been filled with gasoline," said Wasiem.

According to the report, the FPI claim the incident was an act of terror. (kuk/jun)

Source: Police investigate car fire near FPI gathering in East Jakarta

Art charity to benefit ‘floating hospital’ in Jakarta

It has been four years since the first doctorSHARE Foundation (Yayasan Dokter Peduli) built its so-called floating hospital (RSA) on Panggang Island in Thousand Islands, Jakarta. RSA founder Dr. Lie Dharmawan initiated the hospital boat program to serve communities in isolated areas that lack access to health care services.

On June 1, 2015, doctorSHARE launched the second floating hospital, RSA Nusa Waluya I, in collaboration with the Ekadharma Foundation. Meanwhile, RSA Nusa Waluya II is in the works to reach other remote islands throughout Indonesia, mainly serving the isolated communities in the Maluku islands. The health care offered will integrate typical facilities of a floating hospital with local community empowerment programs.

Maluku is the next destination for the RSA program due to the region's high mortality rate among mothers and babies in the province. The rates of 199 deaths of mothers per 100.000 live births and 9 deaths of babies per 1.000 live births as well as malnutrition are the main issues faced by locals. 

The construction of RSA Nusa Waluya II requires funding of Rp.15.8 billion, which will cover capital investment of Rp.10.8 billion and Rp.5 billion for the first six months of operations.

Lions Club Jakarta Pusat Jayakarta Jaya, together with clubs under the auspices of Lions Clubs International District 307-A1, has initiated a fund-raising effort in support of the project. The fundraising activities include an art auction and a charity concert, both to be held on Tuesday.

Read also: Annual Yogyakarta art fair to return in May

Art aficionados interested in the auction attended the Artwork Preview session at LAFLO space in Simprug, South Jakarta from April 6-8. The artworks featured include a painting by Andy Dewantoro entitled "Monument 1986", a painting by Sinta Tantra entitled "Providence In Sapphire", a painting by Oky Rey Montha entitled "Self Pollution", Entang Wiharso's "Floating Garden" and Ay Tjoe Christine's oil painting "Am I A Safe Creature". Proceeds from the auction will be donated by the artists to doctorSHARE as a form of support to the RSA program.

The art auction will be guided by professional art curator Deborah Iskandar, who encourages art lovers from all areas of business and art to support doctorSHARE. 

The charity concert will feature Indonesian pianist maestro Ananda Sukarlan at the Segara Ballroom, The Dharmawangsa Hotel, Jakarta. The concert is expected to raise up to Rp. 2 billion via ticket sales, donations and sponsorships.

"This charity concert for RSA Nusa Waluya II organized by Lions Club International will be very beneficial for those who have difficulty accessing medical care due to a lack of access and infrastructure, especially in the province of Maluku. This event is a real synergy for all of us to achieve Healthy Indonesia," Dr. Lie Dharmawan said in an official statement.

Source: Art charity to benefit 'floating hospital' in Jakarta

Newly opened Hooters Jakarta boasts family-friendly sports bar concept

Hooters Jakarta opened its first restaurant in Kemang, South Jakarta, on March 24. (JP/Jessicha Valentina)

American restaurant chain Hooters, known for its sexy waitresses, officially opened its first outlet in Kemang, South Jakarta, on March 24.

Hooters Jakarta general manager Sherry Suradji told The Jakarta Post on Tuesday that the Jakarta version offered a similar sports bar concept to the US flagship chain. "We provide sports match screenings," she said, adding they served American food with a local twist, such as burgers and chicken with rendang sauce.

The restaurant offers American food with a local twist. (JP/Jessicha Valentina)

However, compared to its other outlets, Hooters Jakarta appears to be more family-friendly as it applies a no smoking rule and has no age restriction. Although everyone is welcome, Sherry said they would not be selling alcoholic beverages to underage guests.

In regard to its reputation of employing scantily clad waitresses, Sherry said Hooters Jakarta had adjusted the uniform by making the neckline higher to cover the cleavage. The management also has a set of regulations. Hooters girls, for example, are not allowed to have an out-of-work relationship with customers or staff members.

Read also: Three new franchise outlets to check out in Jakarta

"If we find [staff members exchanging] phone numbers with guests, we will fire them," said Sherry. 

She also said Hooters Jakarta was basically similar to other restaurants. "But one of our trademarks is the girls are required to dance once every 45 minutes," she said.

Hooters Jakarta is said to have received positive responses from patrons. (JP/Jessicha Valentina)

Having been open for less than a month, Sherry said the eatery has received a positive response. "The public is curious about Hooters and how it was implemented in Indonesia. However, once they come to Hooters Jakarta and see for themselves, they will understand," she said, adding that the restaurant, which seats 104 people, was frequently packed during the weekend. (kes)

Source: Newly opened Hooters Jakarta boasts family-friendly sports bar concept

Plastic cup Mickey 7203: for restaurants, cafes, family karaoke, playground and … – Jakarta Picture

Plastic cup Mickey 7203: for restaurants, cafes, family karaoke, playground and recreation and family entertainment arena. You can bundling it with food or beverage package with a price special price or you can make it as paid merchandise. Your loyal customers would not mind to spend more money to buy a merchandise they favorite restaurant. As shown a cup 7203 ordered by PT Michelindo Food International, Jakarta Indonesia. An Chicken Roll Restaurant franchisee

Source by tegarwares used under Creative Commons license.

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Source: Plastic cup Mickey 7203: for restaurants, cafes, family karaoke, playground and … – Jakarta Picture

Jakarta police to anticipate terrorist attacks

Jakarta, April 12 (Antara) - Jakarta Police Chief Inspector General M. Iriawan has passed order for closer watch around the city police headquarters to forestall terror attacks.

The police command headquarters, regional and district police command offices have to be tightly guarded, Iriawan said here on Wednesday.

"It is getting obvious that police have been the main targets of terrorists lately, he said pointing to recent terrorist attacks on police offices in Tuban and Banymas in East Java.

Police shot dead and arrested terrorist suspects in the two incidents in exchanges of fires.

"I do not want any one of my officers in Jakarta caught off guard and got killed," Iriawan said.

He said the terrorist attack in Banyumas was almost the same in method as terrorist attac on police command office in the Central Java city of Solo in 2016.

He told his officers to prepare the necessary equipment to face any terrorist threat , saying, "I want to warn traffic po lice officers to remain on the alert against unexpected attack by terrorists," he said.(Uu.H-ASG/O001)

Source: Jakarta police to anticipate terrorist attacks

Indonesia court delays Jakarta governor Ahok's blasphemy trial until after elections

Tens of thousands march in Indonesia against city governor Reuters

An Indonesian court has adjourned the high-profile blasphemy trial of Jakarta's Christian governor until after a bitterly fought election on 19 April, a contest that is thought to have fanned religious tensions in the city. Basuki Tjahaja Purnama's critics said the court's decision came following political interference.

Purnama has been busy mounting his campaign in the election to convince around 10 million people in the Indonesian capital to retain him as their governor. At the same time he has been defending himself in court against accusations that he insulted the Islamic holy book, Quran.

Prosecutors were expected on Tuesday (11 April) to ask for Purnama to be jailed. However, prosecutor Ali Mukartono told the court that he wanted more time to prepare submissions, Reuters reported.

The judges have agreed to the prosecution's request to postpone the hearing to 20 April, one day after the election.

Jakarta police had also sought a delay citing security reasons. Given the religious overtones of the case, they explained they would have to beef up security around the city where religious and ethnic tensions are already running high.

"We think the police letter can be taken into consideration due to the matter of security," Mukartono told the court, referring to the timing of the next hearing.

Pedri Kasman, a member of the moderate Islamic group, Muhammadiyah, who reported the blasphemy allegations to the police, said he was very disappointed by the postponement of the trial.

"This hearing was delayed deliberately until after the election ... The election, a political factor, is affecting this legal process," Reuters cited Kasman as saying.

Purnama, also known by his Chinese name Ahok, was accused by hard-line Muslims of insulting the Quran in September 2016. Massive protests erupted across the capital for a few weeks in November and December as angry demonstrators demanded his resignation and subsequent arrest.

Governor of Indonesia's capital Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (L) shows his ballot as he stands beside his wife Veronica Tan during an election for city governor in Jakarta, Indonesia on 15 FebruaryREUTERS/Beawiharta

The incumbent government apologised for his comments and denied any wrongdoing.

The election to the governor's office attracts a lot of attention in Indonesia as the post is reported to be a springboard to the presidency. The elections first took place on 15 February in Jakarta but it ended in a tie, leading to the second and final round scheduled for 19 April.

Ethnic tensions and the blasphemy trial in the backdrop of the elections are reported to be testing the religious tolerance of the world's most populous Muslim country.

While Malaysia has an 85% Muslim population, the country is officially home to six minority religions including Christianity and Hinduism, as well as hundreds of ethnic groups.

Source: Indonesia court delays Jakarta governor Ahok's blasphemy trial until after elections

Three new franchise outlets to check out in Jakarta

Pablo Cheese Tart recently opened its second outlet in Jakarta. (Pablo Cheese Tart/File)

It is always interesting to discuss Jakarta's dining scene as it brims with a plethora of eateries. Recently, the capital welcomed three new franchise outlets, namely Pablo Cheese Tart, Hooters and The Cheesecake Factory.

Those wanting to know more may want to check the list below.

Pablo Cheese Tart

Pablo Cheese Tart's new outlet in Neo Soho shopping mall, West Jakarta. (Pablo Cheese Tart/File)

Pablo Cheese Tart is not a new kid on the block in Jakarta's dining scene. Following the success of its first outlet in Gandaria City shopping mall in South Jakarta, the Japanese cheese tart shop opened a new outlet in Neo Soho shopping mall in West Jakarta on March 8.

Unlike its first outlet, which was designed for take-away, the second outlet is aimed at catering for dine-in customers. With a capacity of 50 seats, Pablo Cheese Tart enthusiasts can now have a freshly baked cheese tart right inside the joint. 

Where: Neo Soho, LG Floor, Jl Letjen S. Parman Kav. 28, Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta

Read also: Jakarta's 2017 dining forecast: 4 trends to look out for

Hooters Jakarta

Hooters' plan to open an outlet in Jakarta was first announced through its Facebook page in September. Since then, Jakarta's food enthusiasts have been talking about the American restaurant chain.

Finally, the restaurant officially opened its doors last month. In addition to its food and beverages and iconic sexy waitresses, the restaurant also offers live screening of sport events.

Where: Jl. Kemang Raya No. 5, South Jakarta

The Cheesecake Factory

US-based cheesecakes distributor The Cheesecake Factory has recently made its debut appearance in Jakarta. Opening as a food stand in supermarkets, cheesecake enthusiasts now have the opportunity to sample the brand's popular treats, including original cheesecake, Ultimate Red Velvet and Oreo Dream Extreme. The cheesecake is available in Food Hall and Ranch Market supermarkets with prices starting from Rp 600,000 (US$44.95). (kes)

Where: Food Hall and Ranch Market supermarkets

Source: Three new franchise outlets to check out in Jakarta

Jakarta theater group all set for 'West Side Story’ in May

'West Side Story', which was inspired by Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, will be performed by a non-profit theater group Jakarta Performing Arts Community (JPAC) from May 12 to 14. (Shutterstock/-)

In the 1960s in New York, a gang war is raging between the White "Jets" and Puerto Rican immigrant "Sharks" over territory in their neighborhood. It all changes, however, when Tony, a former "Jets" member who is also a close friend of the gang's leader, Riff, meets Maria, the sister of the Sharks' leader, Bernardo, and they fall in love at first sight.

Tony and Maria plan to run away together, but it is not easy due to the gangs' feud. Hoping to put an end to the rivalry, Maria sends Tony to stop it but the story takes a devastating turn.

This is just a small slice of West Side Story, a classic musical penned by Arthur Laurents with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

Read also: Jakarta Performing Arts Community's road to 'West Side Story'

Indonesian director Nia Dinata (left to right), 'West Side Story' choreographer Elhaq Latief, the play's director Fonnyta Amran andJakarta Performing Arts Community (JPAC) president Rio Rahmansyah exchange words during a press conference in Jakarta on March 4.(JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

The play, inspired by Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, will be performed in English by a non-profit theater group Jakarta Performing Arts Community (JPAC) on May 12 to 14 at Graha Bhakti Budaya in Taman Ismail Marzuki, Central Jakarta.

Established in 2014, JPAC was founded by several musical theater enthusiasts.

"We picked West Side Story because, as a community with a membership that is diverse in background and culture, we have to make a stand and say that differences are not something to be afraid of; but instead something to be embraced. One of the musicals that represents that sentiment is West Side Story because it's rich with anti-discrimination [messages] and shows the consequences of a misunderstanding," said the musical's director Fonnyta Amran, adding that the show is the troupe's eighth performance as well as its largest ever play. 

Elhaq Latief (left) as Tony and Chezia Atmadja (right) as Maria give a short preview of 'West Side Story'.(JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

To allow it to present the performance, the troupe acquired a license from the Music Theatre International (MTI) to maintain its originality. "If we want to deliver the message [of appreciating differences], we have to do everything above board, so the message can be spread as wide as possible."

Meanwhile, choreographer Elhaq Latief said the play had signature movements, which are popular in the United States theater industry. "I didn't copy all of them, but there are some signature movements that I have included in the production."

Those interested to see the show can purchase the tickets online. The price starts at Rp 100,000 (US$7).

A portion of the tickets will reportedly go to the Theater for Life program for underprivileged youth in Depok, West Java. (kes)

Source: Jakarta theater group all set for 'West Side Story' in May

Loksem And Lokbin in East Jakarta will Be Re-arranged

Reported by Nurito | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata | Saturday April 08, 2017 04:04 PM | Reads 40

(Foto : / Beritajakarta.com)

For the sake of convenience for peddler and buyer, as many as 10 temporary shelters (loksem) and coaching locations (lokbin) for peddlers in East Jakarta will be rearranged in the near future. 

" It is aimed to create comfort and security for the peddler and the buyer"

It is conducted to temporary locations at JT 020 Pujasera, JT 026 Jalan Balai Pustaka Rawamangun, JT 024 and 035 in front of Persahabatan Hospital, as well as JT 017 Cipinang.

There are also temporary locations at Kampung Rambutan Innercity Terminal, Kampung Terminal AKAP Terminal, Susukan, Jatinegara Barat Flat, Jalan TB Simatupang in front of Kampung Rambutan Terminal and intersection of Pasar Rebo.

East Jakarta Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Trade Sub-dept. (KUKMP) Head, Susan Jasmine Zulkifli said private party would rearrange them through CSR.

"It is done by private party by cooperating with Jakarta KUKMP Dept. It is aimed to create comfort and security for the peddler and the buyer," he expressed, Saturday (4/8).

While, Jakarta KUKMP Dept. Head, Irwandi disclosed it is done because the condition of loksem and lokbin is worrying. Aside that, its function has changed, that is why they should be unloaded and will be made into the open model.

"Parts of the buildings are damaged and changed, which is why we want to arrange them all," he finished.

Source: Loksem And Lokbin in East Jakarta will Be Re-arranged

Jakarta officials remove provocative banners to reduce tension

The Jakarta administration had taken down more than 1,000 provocative banners by Friday in an effort to reduce potential conflict among residents approaching the gubernatorial runoff election on April 19. 

"In total, we have taken down 1,153 banners in Jakarta. They are piled up [in our office]," said acting Jakarta governor Sumarsono on Friday at City Hall, adding that the banners lacked permits from Jakarta officials.

(Read also: 266 hate banners found in Jakarta)

Police found that most of the banners were in East and West Jakarta, according to Sumarsono. They will investigate the suspects behind erecting them for possible criminal procedures, he said.

Previously, several mosques have installed banners emblazoned with messages calling on Muslims to not perform funeral prayers for deceased Muslims found to have voted for Ahok, who is a Christian of Chinese ethnicity.

This messaging has affected a family who claimed that authorities of a local mosque in Setiabudi, South Jakarta, denied their request to hold prayers for their deceased mother because the mother was found to have voted for Ahok in the Feb.15 election (dan)

Source: Jakarta officials remove provocative banners to reduce tension

April 19 voting day declared holiday for Greater Jakarta

April 19, the day of Jakarta's gubernatorial runoff election, has been declared a public holiday for anyone working in the capital, even if they do not vote.

"The holiday also affects people who reside in Bogor, Tangerang and other satellite cities [as long as they work in Jakarta]," acting governor Sumarsono said at City Hall on Thursday.

He said that the decision would be based on a regulation currently being drafted at the Home Ministry.

He said that he hoped all eligible voters would participate in the election and would not take advantage of the holiday just to go on a vacation.

"There are still Jakartans who do not care about civic matters," he said.

He said that people should go on vacation only after they cast their votes to determine Jakarta's leadership for the next five years.

Source: April 19 voting day declared holiday for Greater Jakarta

Again, Ira Koesno will be guide the Debate Election Head of Jakarta Regional Second Round

News24xx.com - Debate Election Head of Jakarta Regional Second Round will be filled with three sessions. This debate will be guided by former presenter of SCTV, Ira Koesno.

The debate will be conducted April 12 2017. At that time, the first and foremost is question and answer between two candidates for lieutenant governor, and then among the candidates for governor.

"There are three sessions, the third session was a debate session open, candidates ask and respond to each other," said Sumarno in office, Jalan Salemba Raya, Central Jakarta, Wednesday April 5, 2017.

Debate candidate for Governor and Vice Governor of Jakarta the second round will take place at Bidakara, Tebet, South Jakarta. This debate will be the last debate on the stages of the elections of Jakarta.

After debate, the candidates still have time to campaign for the program until April 15, 2017. However, based on the set by General Election Commissions, the campaign will be held by the mass media, print and electronic.

Furthermore, the stage will enter the second round of gubernatorial election quiet period on Apri 16 until April 18, 2017. Vote and counting at polling will take place on April 19, 2017. The summary, determination and announcement of the results of the vote count provincial level was conducted on April 29 until 6 May 2017.

The Governor and Deputy Governor of Jakarta selected will be scheduled on  May 5 until May 6, 2017. The schedule will change if there is a request dispute election results

Source: Again, Ira Koesno will be guide the Debate Election Head of Jakarta Regional Second Round

‘The World of Ghibli’ exhibition to be held in Jakarta in August

One of the stills from 'My Neighbor Totoro' by Studio Ghibli. (www.facebook.com/GhibliFrance/-)

Studio Ghibli, a Japanese animation studio, plans to hold a 39-day exhibition of its work starting on Aug. 10 in the Pacific Place Ballroom in South Jakarta.

The exhibition is for Studio Ghibli enthusiasts. It will consist of different designs depicting the settings of several films, such as Kiki's Delivery Service, Howl's Moving Castle, Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea, Princess Mononoke, My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away and other popular titles.

Posting for a photograph are (from left to right) executive director of Studio Ghibli Toshio Suzuki, Kaninga Pictures CEO Willawati, president director of Marubeni Indonesia Tommy Fukuda, Indonesian musician Sherina, director and senior corporate officer of Hakuhodo DY Media Partner Tetsuya Sakurai and one of the characters from 'Spirited Away' Kaonashi (No Face).(JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

Read also: Studio Ghibli movies to be screen in 17 cities across Indonesia

Furthermore, Japanese animation film director Hayao Miyazaki's worktable is to be recreated and visitors will be taught about the studio's history and its filmmaking process. Film trailers will also be screened.

A daily pass is to cost Rp 250,000 ($18) for students, children under 12 years old and senior citizens. Regular tickets are to cost Rp 300,000. All tickets are to be available at worldofghibli.id.

"Before I came here last year, I did not know much about Indonesia, so I was very surprised to receive such a warm welcome from Indonesian fans. Their earnestness moved us to finally organize this event," said Studio Ghibli's executive director Toshio Suzuki, adding that he attended the limited screening of Spirited Away last August.

The official poster of 'The World of Ghibli Jakarta' which was designed by Muhammad Bisri Mustofa.(The World of Ghibli Jakarta /File)

Read also: Must-watch anime movies from Studio Ghibli

'The World of Ghibli Jakarta' will continue until September. A film festival consisting of Studio Ghibli's 21 feature films and one short film is to start in August and run until September alongside the exhibition. (asw)

Source: 'The World of Ghibli' exhibition to be held in Jakarta in August

ILO Jakarta special edition on ILO‘s Mt. Sinabung Recovery Support Programme

Type: Periodical Date issued: 21 March 2017 Reference: INS/14/07/UND[ILO_REF] Authors: ILO-SIRESUP Project Format available: 10 p.

The Sinabung programme is aimed at contributing to the post-disaster recovery of the affected regions and the affected communities are recovered with sustainable livelihoods and enhanced resilience. Implemented for 2.5 years, the Project has ended in March 2017.

Tags: promotion of employment, livelihoods, capacity building, economic recovery, entrepreneurship, natural disasters, ILO partnerships

Regions and countries covered: Indonesia

Source: ILO Jakarta special edition on ILO's Mt. Sinabung Recovery Support Programme

Fashion Tuesday Marathon – November Day 1 , Fashion Tuesday Marathon – November … – Jakarta Picture

Fashion Tuesday Marathon – November Day 1 , Fashion Tuesday Marathon – November Day 1 , Model Tuesday Marathon – November Day 1 At Cilandak Townsquare Jakarta – Indonesia… , Vesa IT , vesait.net/… , ,

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Source: Fashion Tuesday Marathon – November Day 1 , Fashion Tuesday Marathon – November … – Jakarta Picture

37 Persons Participate in Jemput Mobile Service in C. Jakarta

Reported by Jhon Syah Putra Kaban | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata | Saturday April 01, 2017 05:26 PM | Reads 37

(Foto : / Beritajakarta.com)

Central Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Sub-dept. has noted that as many as 37 residents participate in the mobile jemput bola services held at Mitra Oasis Apartment, Senen, Central Jakarta, Saturday (4/1).

" The service is focused on the flats and the apartments where the residents have no time to process civil documents on weekdays"

"The service is focused on the flats and the apartments where the residents have no time to process civil documents on weekdays," said Remon Masadian, Head of Central Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Sub-dept., Saturday (4/1).

Masadian stated, in the service, his side has issued 4 population administration information systems (SIAK) and 23 temporary domicile certificates (SKDS). 

"Additionally, one person does recording and nine other persons do consultation. There are totally 37 persons," he expressed.

He urges those who have no time to participate in the service could directly come to the nearest urban village offices on weekdays.

"Especially for elderly and people who are sick, we serve them through jemput bola," he said.

Source: 37 Persons Participate in Jemput Mobile Service in C. Jakarta