Shallots, ideal for dieters: Study – Jakarta Post

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Source: Shallots, ideal for dieters: Study – Jakarta Post

Tourism Roadshow to Shanghai and Chengdu Promotes 'Ten New Balis' Jakar… – Jakarta Picture

Tourism Roadshow to Shanghai and Chengdu Promotes 'Ten New Balis' Jakarta. Indonesia's Tourism Ministry organized a sales mission to Shanghai and Chengdu in China on May 22-25 to attract more Chinese tourists to Indonesia.

Source by lyndoncooper used under Creative Commons license.

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Source: Tourism Roadshow to Shanghai and Chengdu Promotes 'Ten New Balis' Jakar… – Jakarta Picture

Sandiaga Uno to establish sharia tourism zone in Jakarta

Deputy governor-elect Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno said on Tuesday that he planned to establish a sharia tourism zone in Kwitang, Senen, Central Jakarta.

Sandiaga explained that he had been inspired to build such a zone after he visited Ali bin Abdurrahmad Al Habsyi, better known as Habib Kwitang, at Ar Riyadh Mosque in Kwitang on Tuesday.

Kwitang is known among local Muslims for its regular learning forums held by a local Islamic center.

"I think it will be interesting if there is a religious tourism zone [in the area], which is properly arranged with tents. Hence, mobility can be ensured," Sandiaga said as quoted by wartakota.tribunnews.com.

Read also: Sandiaga Uno waiting for Ahok's family's permission to visit him

He said he planned to realize the idea by building home stays in the area after his inauguration as Jakarta deputy governor in October.

He expressed hope that the tourism zone would support small and medium enterprises in Jakarta. (agn/ika)

Source: Sandiaga Uno to establish sharia tourism zone in Jakarta

N. Jakarta officials improve data to pave way for Anies's OK-OCE program

There are still four more months to go before governor-elect Anies Baswedan takes his oath and some of the Jakarta administration's apparatuses are already gearing up for his campaign programs.

The North Jakarta's Trade and Micro, Small and Medium-sized Entrepreneurship sub-agency, for example, is currently organizing a database for the future use of Anies' entrepreneurial program, popularly known as the One Kecamatan (district) One Center (OK-OCE) entrepreneurship program.

"We are currently improving data on the number of entrepreneurs in North Jakarta, so it can be used for the OK-OCE program. Right now, according to our existing records, there are 8,000 entrepreneurs from various sizes in our watch," said the sub-agency head Arfian.

The existing entrepreneurs, he went on, would be further selected by the new governor's team before granted with funding assistance. He also welcomed new entrepreneurs to enroll in the program. (agn/dic)

Source: N. Jakarta officials improve data to pave way for Anies's OK-OCE program

Hari raya recipe: Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta’s ‘nasi goreng kluwak’

One can put various twists on fried rice, or nasi goreng, and Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta's chef de cuisine, Prasetyo Widodo, came up with the idea of adding kluwak (black nut), a type of plant typically found in Southeast Asia, to his fried rice.

"I use kluwak to highlight its usage in Indonesian cuisine," he said, adding that the plant was used in various Indonesian dishes, such as rawon, ikan gabus pucung and sop konro.

"I [also] mix kluwak with seafood, because the shrimp has a savory taste and kluwak has a pleasant aroma and a bit of a bitter taste. When added with crab meat, it creates a refreshing aroma."

Prasetyo offered advice for those wishing to try and cook the dish at home. This includes the tip to use only cold steamed rice to produce a more dry result, small shrimps with a ratio of 51-60 shrimps per kilogram for a more savory taste, mud crab as, it has a lot of meat, and only the head part of bean sprouts to create a more crispy taste.

He added that cooking fried rice required a large, hot fire. "If you use a hot fire, each grain of the rice will be separated, which means it gets a little bit burnt to create a charred [sensation]." (kes)

Read also: Ramadhan recipe: Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta's 'garang asam ayam'

Ingredients

200 gr cold steamed rice

50 gr shrimp (51/60 pieces)

30 gr crab meat

100 gr chicken egg

10 gr short bean sprout (head)

5 gr spring onion

1 gr fried shallot

50 gr kluwak paste

25 ml sweet soy sauce

30 ml vegetable oil

2 gr salt

1 gr white pepper

Ground spices (kluwak paste)

50 gr shallot

20 gr garlic

100 gr kluwak

20 gr turmeric

20 gr red chili

5 gr coriander

5 gr ginger

30 ml water

Method

Finely blend the ground spices: shallot, garlic, kluwak, turmeric, red chili, coriander and ginger to create the kluwak paste. After you have finished, cook the paste slowly in a pan with 30 ml of water for approximately 30 minutes.

Heat oil in a pan with a large fire, sautee chopped garlic and shallot until it creates a pleasant aroma.

Add egg, cold steamed rice and the kluwak paste.

Add shrimp, bean sprout and crab meat.

Season with soy sauce, salt and pepper.

Add spring onion, finish and serve hot. You can add desired garnishes, with the example of crackers and pickles.

Source: Hari raya recipe: Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta's 'nasi goreng kluwak'

Jakarta admin wants fewer unskilled newcomers

The Jakarta administration wishes to see a smaller inflow of unskilled newcomers from other regions after the Idul Fitri holidays end, Governor Djarot Saiful Hidayat has said, citing overpopulation as one of the reasons.

"People are welcome here, but [they should] have skills so that they will not be unemployed. Those without skills will end up working in the informal sector," he said after holding an Idul Fitri celebration at City Hall on Sunday.

Year after year, homegoing travelers traditionally return to Jakarta after the annual exodus with relatives or friends who want to try their luck in the capitol.

Jakarta is currently inhabited by 10.2 million people, whereas it is ideally inhabited by 7.5 million only. Djarot said an average of 100,000 newcomers have come to Jakarta every year. 

"In the afternoon, there are 14.5 million people in the city," Djarot said, taking into account commuter workers from other areas as well.

During his term, former governor Ali Sadikin required the newcomers to provide a certain amount of money as a guarantee they could find a job in the city, Djarot said.

He, however, was quick to add that he would not copy that policy. 

The city administration, through the Population and Civil Registration Agency (Dukcapil), is set to monitor the newcomers by establishing communications with neighborhood and community units.

Meanwhile, data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reveals that Jakarta had an unemployment rate of 5.4 percent in February, the 12th-highest among all provinces. (tas)

Source: Jakarta admin wants fewer unskilled newcomers

Food prices spike in Jakarta a day before Idul Fitri

A day before Idul Fitri, a number of traditional markets in Jakarta have reported rising food prices.

Yakub, a vendor at Mayestik market in South Jakarta, said the price of red bird's eye chili had increased approaching the festivity.

"It was Rp 50,000 [US$3.75]per kg at the beginning of Ramadhan, but is up to Rp 80,000 per kg now," Yakub said on Saturday, adding that the price reached its peak at Rp 180,000 per kg in February.

The prices of other commodities are also on the rise at Mayestik.

Red chili is sold at at Rp 50,000 per kg compared to Rp 25,000 per kg on regular days, garlic at Rp 80,000 per kg from the usual Rp 50,000 and shallots at Rp 45,000 per kg from Rp 30,000.

Vendors at Palmerah market in Central Jakarta and Kebayoran Lama market in South Jakarta have also reported higher prices as well. Red bird's eye chili is sold at Rp 50,000 per kg, shallots at Rp 40,000 per kg, and garlic at Rp 70,000 per kg.

Tuti, a housewife from Selong, Kebayoran Baru, said that she had anticipated the price hike and bought red chilies several days ago.

Despite the increases, many consider them to be more "tolerable" than in previous years.

State logistics firm Bulog began to release its supply of staple food in the middle of May, while the government flexed its muscles against traders who allegedly play a major role in hoarding food and causing prices to soar. (dis/tas)

Source: Food prices spike in Jakarta a day before Idul Fitri

5 reasons why you should go to We The Fest Jakarta

Less than two hours away is We The Fest, a music festival in Jakarta that rivals Laneway and Neon Lights

1. The organisers are Indonesia's trusted guys in lifestyle and entertainmentChristian Rijanto heads up Ismaya Live, which is Ismaya's live event production arm. The Ismaya group heads trendy restaurants such as Blowfish, Social House, Tokyo Belly and Publik Markette. As festival producers, they organise big-time ones such as Jakarta's We The Fest (WTF) every August and Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) every December; and Bali's Sunny Sunny Side Up Tropical Fest every August. They've also organised solo concerts for the likes of Katy Perry, One Direction and Marshmello, as well as a culinary festival later in the year. In its ninth edition, DWP is basically Indonesia's answer to ZoukOut, lineup-wise. WTF enters its fourth edition this year. Last year saw 27,000 people over two days — 400 of which were from Singapore.

2. The lineup's a good mix of international and regional namesThis year's lineup boasts artists touring in support of their new albums like Phoenix and Dua Lipa, as well as names across various genres such as The Kooks, Yuna, Wave Racer and Snakehips. Highlights from the Indonesian acts include festival debuts Goodnight Electric, Ramengvrl, Silampukau and Mondo Gascaro. Meanwhile, returning to WTF with new material are Elephant Kind and Scaller.

3. It'll be held at a new venueNot new to Indonesians at least, but to WTF. With their previous venue — Parkir Timur Senayan — under renovation, the festival is moving to JIExpo Kemayoran, which is also the same venue for DWP. It's as accessible as the former, and not only is this venue bigger, it's not as grassy — you'll thank Ismaya Live if and when it rains. Top tip: If you really want to treat yourself, book one of their five cabanas for the ultimate squad experience. It comes with couches, picnic tables, a personal butler, a private toilet and an exclusive terrace with an elevated view of the stage.

4. WTF brings together the best of Coachella and LollapaloozaUndoubtedly influenced by two of the biggest music festivals in the world, WTF named one of their stages Clownchella before branding it as their own WTF Stage. Another stage was also called Bananapalooza before it was renamed. Establishing themselves as a music festival with their own identity, WTF has grown up create their own signature stages, zones and characters.

5. It's not all about the musicFestivals always tout this in their calling cards, but WTF lives up to their promise. Apart from the music lineup, they've consistently pushed the arts, fashion and food elements — which is unsurprising, given Ismaya's strong lifestyle identity — to give festival-goers a variety of experiences. Eats and Beats is where you fuel up with nosh from Ismaya's F&B establishments, while a carnival-like zone will allow you to make your own souveniers, tote bags and dreamcatchers. Last year, a music bus allowed sound-hounds to pick up vinyls, casettes and CDs.

We The Fest happens from 11 to 13 August at JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta. Book tickets.

Source: 5 reasons why you should go to We The Fest Jakarta

Five places to go in Jakarta to observe religious diversity

Amid the rising intolerance that continues to fill news headlines and social media, an activity is being held to remind people about the religious diversity that Indonesia enjoys and, at the same time, show that Jakarta does not only offer a plethora of malls and cafes.

Dubbed "Wisata Rumah Ibadat" (Places of Worship Tourism), the activity invites participants to visit several places of worship in Jakarta to learn about tolerance and religious diversity. Held for the second time on Tuesday, it was joined by teenagers and kicked off at GPIB (Synod of Protestant Churches in Western Indonesia) Immanuel and ended at Pura Aditya Jaya Ramawangun.

In each place of worship, the participants received explanations about its history, the way people pray and the meaning of symbols or philosophies used in the various religions.

Below are the destinations scattered across Jakarta that one can consider visiting to learn more about religion in Indonesia:

GPIB Immanuel 

Participants explore the GPIB Immanuel, Central Jakarta. (JP/Wienda Parwitasari)

Situated in Gambir, Central Jakarta, GPIB Immanuel is one of the oldest churches in the city. Built in the 1830s and designed by Dutch architect J. H. Horst, the church used to be named "Willem Kerk", but was later changed in 1948 to "Immanuel" (God with Us).

As part of Jakarta's cultural heritage, the church is known for its dome, which is able to reflect sound and was used for sermons in the past. The dome was designed in such a way that it transfers an equal amount of sunlight to the inner parts of the church. GPIB Immanuel also has an historic pipe organ that was made by J. Datz in 1843. The organ can still be played today.

The services at GPIB Immanuel are divided depending on which language is used; Bahasa Indonesia (6 a.m., 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.), Dutch (10 a.m.) and English (5 p.m.).

Address: Jl. Merdeka Timur No. 10, RT 2/RW 1, Gambir, Central Jakarta.

St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral 

Teenagers and senior high school students explore the Jakarta Cathedral. (JP/Wienda Parwitasari)

St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, popularly known as the Jakarta Cathedral, was officially established on April 21, 1901, but the original building was actually built in 1810. The church was designed in neo-gothic style and has three spires that are currently under renovation. Meanwhile, the ceiling is made from wood to anticipate earthquakes. On both sides of the church, people can view a series of paintings titled The Way of the Cross (Jalan Salib).

Jakarta Cathedral has daily and weekly mass schedules. It also has bells that are rung at 6 a.m., 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. to remind people to pray. Those who decide to visit this church must not pass the batas suci (sacred line) in front of the altar. The church also has special praying space and facilities for people with disabilities.

One of the activity participants, 18-year-old Amanda Najla, who is a student of an Islamic boarding school in East Java, said that getting insights from various sources about religions in Indonesia and their development really opened her eyes. "At school, we only learn about our religion, therefore we lack information about other religions. I will encourage other teenagers to join the activity; to see, learn and understand more about religious diversity in Indonesia," she said.

Address: Jl. Katedral No. 7B, Pasar Baru, Sawah Besar, Central Jakarta.

Istiqlal Mosque

Participants take a picture together at Istiqlal Mosque. (JP/Wienda Parwitasari)

Located right across from the Jakarta Cathedral, Istiqlal Mosque was built as a form of gratitude for Indonesia's independence. Its name, which was derived from the Arabic language, literally means "Independence". At first the mosque was going to be built in the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle area, but at the suggestion of Indonesia's first president Soekarno, the mosque was constructed in its current location, which used to be known as Wilhelmina Park. In 1978, it was officially established by the country's second president Soeharto.

Known as the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, Istiqlal can accommodate up to 300,000 jama'ah (worshippers). The building only has one minaret, symbolizing the Muslim belief of one God. It also has a large dome up to 45 meters in diameter, while the smaller dome is 8 meters in diameter and the moon-star sculpture is 17 meters in height. When they are combined they form the date of Indonesia's independence: Aug. 17, 1945.

Those who want to visit the mosque should wear appropriate clothes; do not wear shorts, tank tops or see-through clothing, although long kimonos are available to lend for foreign tourists. You also need to take off your shoes or sandals prior to entering the mosque.

Address: Jl. Taman Wijaya Kusuma, Pasar Baru, Sawah Besar, Central Jakarta.

Read also: Mandalika Grand Mosque to open before Idul Adha

Hoseiji Temple

The inside of Hoseiji Temple.(JP/Wienda Parwitasari)

Hoseiji Temple (Kuil Hoseiji) was built in 2005. Its construction materials came from several provinces in Indonesia, included Bali and Central Java. The temple is the place of worship for Buddhists with Japan-based Nichiren Shoshu as its branch. Located in Manggarai, the Hoseiji Temple features a praying room, a classroom, reception and an office. The temple is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Those who want to visit Hoseiji Temple should take off their shoes and sandals, then keep them in cabinets near the entrance. It is prohibited to take a photo of the sacred altar, especially when it is in an open position. Those who have questions regarding Buddhism and the temple can ask the receptionist at the left side of the entrance. You can also talk to one of the Bhikkus but only after making an appointment. 

Address: Jl. Padang No. 27, RT 05/08, Pasar Manggis, Setiabudi, South Jakarta.

Pura Aditya Jaya 

Participants enjoy a Balinese dance performance at Pura Aditya Jaya, Rawamangun.(JP/Wienda Parwitasari)

Located in Rawamangun, East Jakarta, Pura Aditya Jaya (Aditya Jaya Temple) was officially established in May 1972, but the construction itself took eight phases from 1972 to 2006. The temple can be reached via its main gate (Candi Bentar) on Jl. Jenderal Ahmad Yani, but when it is closed, you are advised to go to Jl. Daksinapati Raya instead.

Adopting the Tri Mandala (three realms) structure, the pura consists of three parts, namely Nista Mandala that covers the parking area, Madya Mandala or the middle area that hosts the kitchen and Balai Wantilan (place for meeting or preparing for a religious ceremony), and Uttama Mandala, which is the most sacred area, where Hindu believers pray.

Women who want to visit Pura Aditya Jaya should not enter the Uttama Mandala when they are on their period. Aside from wearing modest clothing, visitors should also wear a sarong and senteng (scarf) around their waist and take off their shoes or sandals.

Address: Jl. Daksinapati Raya No. 10, Rawamangun, East Jakarta

Wisata Rumah Ibadat was initiated by two non-profit organizations, Bhinneka Community and Sekar Nusa Community, who are mostly concerned about diversity and culture in Indonesia. The activity is designed for youths and high school students to help them learn more about the reality of religious diversity in this country. The first installment of the activity was held in Bandung in May and was joined by elementary students. (kes)

Source: Five places to go in Jakarta to observe religious diversity

Jakarta plans to spend Rp 74 trillion next year

The Jakarta administration has agreed to include all the programs of governor-elect Anies Baswedan in the 2018 budget, the documents of which have been sent to the City Council.

Jakarta Development Planning Board (Bappeda) head Tuty Kusumawati said that after deliberation, the executives agreed to include all Anies' programs in the 2,000 activities that will require Rp 74 trillion (US$ 5.5 billion) next year.

"The budget allocations are to support them," Tuty said on Wednesday.

The sum was higher than the city's 2017 budget, which was agreed at Rp 70.1 trillion.

The deliberation results had been listed in the city's budget priorities (KUA-PPAS) document, Tuty added.

"The documents were handed to the councilors on Jun 16," she said. "However, we don't yet know when the councilors will deliberate the budget with us."

Tuty said she hoped that the city officials could discuss the issue with the councilors soon so that it could be agreed by the end of July.

In 2017, she said, the budget was mostly allocated for the Education Agency, the Transportation Agency, and the Health Agency.

Separately, City Council deputy speaker Triwisaksana denied having received the budget documents.

Hence, he added, they had yet to learn when the council would meet with the executives to discuss the documents.

Source: Jakarta plans to spend Rp 74 trillion next year

How to Sleep at The Airport – Jakarta Airport (Soekarno Hatta International Airport) – Jakarta Video

RWALK #3 – How to sleep at the airport – Soekarno Hatta International Airport, Jakarta, Indonesia

This is the short information you need to know about how to sleep at Jakarta Airport, hopefully this video help if you want to travel with overnight flight and resting at the airport

CreditsCamera : Denny Alfarizi (@densphotoid)

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Some local news is curated - Original might have been posted at a different date/ time! Click the source link for details.
Source: How to Sleep at The Airport – Jakarta Airport (Soekarno Hatta International Airport) – Jakarta Video

Ramadhan recipe: The Westin Jakarta’s fish soup 51

Fish Soup 51 is a Ramadhan special of Seasonal Tastes restaurant at The Westin Jakarta hotel in South Jakarta. Below is The Westin Jakarta's Fish Soup 51 recipe for those wanting to cook it at home. http://bit.ly/2rveU3K

Ramadhan recipe: The Westin Jakarta's fish soup 51

Fish Soup 51 is a Ramadhan special of Seasonal Tastes restaurant at The Westin Jakarta hotel in South Jakarta.

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Some local news is curated - Original might have been posted at a different date/ time! Click the source link for details.
Source: Ramadhan recipe: The Westin Jakarta's fish soup 51

Istanbul, Jakarta and Geneva join the anti-war campaign on Yemen

Istanbul, Jakarta and Geneva have joined "Stop the war on Yemen" campaign.Turkey and Jakarta's anti-war organizations have held campaigns in solidity with the people of Yemen condemning the killing of civilians by the Saudi government, on the occasion of the 800 days of airstrikes on Yemen.

In Turkey, the Al Quds Foundation hosted hundreds of fasting people. Visiting the anti-war exhibition, they condemned Al Saud regime's war crimes.

In Indonesia, anti-war activists displayed anti-Saudi posters on the sidelines of Jakarta's Friday Prayers.

In Geneva, anti-war organizations screened infographics of humanitarian and infrastructural damage to Yemen in front of the UN office.

It should be noted that Australia, India, Gaza, the United States and the United Kingdom previously held campaigns in solidarity with Yemenis, condemning the killing of civilians and brutal rape on the country.

Source: Istanbul, Jakarta and Geneva join the anti-war campaign on Yemen

No car-free days in Jakarta over Idul Fitri holiday

The Jakarta Transportation Agency says there will be no car-free days from June 18 to July  2.

The agency's head, Andri Yansyah, said his personnel would assist traffic police and the military in managing the Idul Fitri exodus and return traffic. 

"We will assist the National Police and Indonesian Military," Andri was quoted as saying by beritajakarta.id on Friday in Jakarta.

"We've issued a circular about the hiatus," Andri said. (dra/dmr)  

Source: No car-free days in Jakarta over Idul Fitri holiday

Grab Indonesia To Offer Helicopter Taxi Rides In Jakarta

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Indonesians tired of Jakarta's notorious traffic jams may in future be able to book a helicopter ride using their mobile phones through a new service being considered by popular ride-hailing service Grab.

Grab Indonesia may soon release a helicopter taxi service for customers, called GrabHeli, a representative said at the company's 5th anniversary in Jakarta on Saturday.

"We always try to provide solutions for our customers," Grab Indonesia's marketing director Mediko Azwar told reporters.

However, the company has not specified when it plans to implement the new service on its digital platform. Currently, they are conducting a feasibility study to see whether the company can go ahead with the commercial launch of GrabHeli in the city.

"We are exploring the possibility to launch the service commercially."

"If it's feasible, then we will talk about the business model," Madiko said.

According to Ridzki Kramadibrata, Managing Director of Grab Indonesia, GrabHeli is specially designed to provide a quality and high-end transportation service at an affordable price. The service wants the citizens to be free of the daily trouble and is specifically aimed at serving business executives who can't afford to be stuck in traffic jams.

In a pilot program, GrabHeli offered 15-minute helicopter rides to as many as 64 of its most prized customers on Saturday and Sunday as part of its anniversary weekend.

Grab's new plans come after chartered flight company Whitesky Aviation announced the construction of a Rp 260 billion ($19.5 million) heliport near Soekarno Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten.

"This is a positive thing, meeting a demand from interested parties to travel to the airport via helicopter," Ridzki said, citing Whitesky's recent announcement.

"That is one of the reasons why we want to enter into this venture," he said.

Grab is not the first company to experiment with a helicopter service in Jakarta. In 2015, Uber offered free rides to residents in its so-called UberChopper, but it has yet to roll out the service commercially.

(Source: TheTechPortal /Lipstiq )

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Source: Grab Indonesia To Offer Helicopter Taxi Rides In Jakarta

Sapsiree, Puttita through to second round in Jakarta

Sapsiree Taerattanachai and Puttita Supajirakul booked their place in the women's doubles second round of the Indonesia Open after beating Tiara Rosalia Nuraidah and Rizki Amelia Pradipta yesterday.

The Thai world No.12 beat their Indonesian opponents 21-16, 21-15 and next meet Hsu Ya-ching and Wu Ti-jung of Taiwan for a place in the quarter-finals of the US$1 million BWF Superseries Premier event in Jakarta.

It was a welcome relief for Sapsiree who, along with Dechapol Puavaranukroh, suffered a disappoining first-round loss in the mixed doubles on Tuesday.

Dechapol also bounced back with a victory in the men's doubles yesterday.

He teamed up with Kittinupong Kedren to win the first round match against Mohammad Ahsan and Rian Agung Saputro of Indonesia 21-19, 17-21, 21-18 in 66 minutes.

Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk was scheduled to play Rajiv Ouseph of England in the men's singles first round while Bodin Isara and Nipitphon Phuangphuapet were due to face Calvin Kristanto and Bagas Maulana of Indonesia in the men's doubles late last night.

Source: Sapsiree, Puttita through to second round in Jakarta

South Jakarta provides free motorcycle parking for holidaymakers

South Jakarta residents will have an alternative place to leave their motorcycles during the Idul Fitri holiday, with space being made available at the mayor's office.

South Jakarta Mayor Edy Suherman said the policy aimed at ensuring that residents had a comfortable Idul Fitri trip to their hometown by not riding their motorcycles.

"We have urged people not to force themselves to ride their motorcycle during the exodus, especially those who plan to go with their families," Edy said on Tuesday. 

Since riding a motorcycle on a long trip with lots of goods made motorists prone to traffic accidents, Edy said the parking service at his office would help decrease the rate of traffic accidents.

"Bringing along a wife, children and a lot of stuff [while riding a motorcycle] during an Idul Fitri trip is really dangerous," he said as quoted by tribunnews.com.

To enjoy the free service, residents need only submit copies of an ID card and vehicle registration document to South Jakarta administration officers. (hol)

Source: South Jakarta provides free motorcycle parking for holidaymakers

Jakarta seeks tripartite counterterrorism meet

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano. AP

Indonesia is seeking a tripartite conference with the Philippines and Malaysia to discuss action plans to stop terrorism, Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said on Monday.

Cayetano said Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi expressed concern over developments in Mindanao which had, over the years, became a refuge for fugitives from Indonesia and Malaysia.

"The Indonesian foreign minister is proposing a meeting, a small conference where we'll be able to talk about the situation and what we can do together with Malaysia," Cayetano told reporters.

Both countries, which forged a maritime security agreement with the Philippines last year, expressed interest in helping resolve the Marawi conflict that also involved their nationals.

The agreement allows Malaysian and Indonesian law enforcers to pursue fleeing criminals, even in Philippine territorial waters and vice versa.

At the recent Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, Malaysian defense minister Hishammuddin Hussein said joint maritime patrols was only one step in fighting terrorism in the region.

Indonesian defense minister Ryamizard Ryacudu claimed there were about 1,000 foreign terrorists in Mindanao, 40 of them from Indonesia.

Cayetano said there had been "very good conversations" with the two countries over the last 10 months and the Philippines would respond to Jakarta's proposal soon, maybe even "in a day or two."

According to Cayetano, President Duterte's warnings about Southeast Asian countries becoming terrorist targets have unfortunately come true.

"Unfortunately, we were first. We want to cooperate very well with Indonesia and Malaysia so they won't also suffer at the hands of extremists," he said.

There could be operations either abroad or in the Philippines to neutralize the extremists of different nationalities who cross the borders of the countries to fight for the Islamic State, he added.

Cayetano said the plan of the extremists in Marawi was much bigger than expected, and the groups actually wanted to take over two to three cities.

"It's more than an audition. It's true and its correct that the [Islamic State group] is in the Philippines and if we don't act proactively, aggressively, quickly, it will spread," he said.

Analysts have said that the porous maritime borders between the three countries made it hard to detect the movement of militants.

Security analyst Otso Iho of Jane's Terrorism and Insurgency Centre, said Mindanao was "the primary area in the region where Islamist militant groups are still able to operate with some freedom of operation, run training camps, and conduct frequent attacks."

"It's also the location where the vast majority of Southeast Asian groups that have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State are based," the analyst added.

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Source: Jakarta seeks tripartite counterterrorism meet

Tango community in Jakarta growing

Fuchong "El Tanguero" (right) and Daisy Tsang Kwan Nga dance at Paciencia's 5th Anniversary Milonga in Central Jakarta on June 10. The community in Jakarta has since 2012 gathered every week on Monday evenings to dance tango. (JP/Liza Yosephine)

Argentina may be on the other side of the globe from Indonesia, but the sensual tango has traveled some 15,000 kilometers to get the feet of Jakartans moving to its sultry rhythm, as more and more are dancing to its beat.  

Grouped under Paciencia, a tango community in Jakarta, at one point almost 200 people spun around with their partners during a 17-hour milonga, or dance party, to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the community from June 9-10.

Fuchong "El Tanguero", a Spanish nickname he took on which means "the tango dancer", established Paciencia in 2012 soon after returning from Buenos Aires, where he had traveled to learn the Argentine dance in its birthplace.

It was there, he said, that he learned the true philosophy behind the tango, after being immersed in the culture for three months. 

Read also: Purwakanthi seeks to preserve classic Surakartan Javanese dances in Jakarta

"The philosophy is how we find a connection. Connection is very important. ...Connection means we can appreciate and we can give, and that's what tango means," Fuchong said during the anniversary event in Central Jakarta. 

These are the values he brought back with him and have applied in the pursuit of spreading the passion for tango in Jakarta. Five years later, and the community had grown, Fuchong added, albeit at a slow pace.

"Tango is not easy," said Fuchong, who is also a DJ and dance teacher. 

Originally from Bali, Fuchong leads the community of tango enthusiasts in Jakarta by teaching a class that is followed by a milonga every Monday. The class and the milonga each cost Rp 100,000 (US$7.5), with classes beginning at 7 p.m.

Read also: Camaraderie through Saman Dance

Faraidi Rivai Malik, who helped organize the anniversary celebration, says tango is also gaining ground around Indonesia, as communities are also popping up in Yogyakarta, Bandung in West Java, Surabaya in East Java and in Bali. 

"Dancing tango is all about being part of a community. It's not just "hi and bye", we also build friendships," she said. 

In addition to dancers around Indonesia, Faraidi said connections were also established with international communities through attending events and networking abroad. 

The connection, Faraidi said, was what helps spread the word and supported the growing interest of tango in Indonesia. (kes)

Source: Tango community in Jakarta growing

Riding Jakarta City tour Bus | Toy Joy Channel – Jakarta Video

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Source: Riding Jakarta City tour Bus | Toy Joy Channel – Jakarta Video

Jakarta Fair boasts multi-genre music concerts

The 50th Jakarta Fair, an annual event celebrating the capital's anniversary, officially opened on Thursday.

Slated to run until July 16 at the Jakarta International Expo (JIExpo) Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, the fair returns with a plethora of entertainment programs, including multi-genre concerts dubbed "JIExpo Music Concerts Let's Get Loud."

Featuring different types of music, varying from rock, ballads, metal to dangdut, the music stage is set to showcase various local musicians, including Ari Lasso, Gigi, God Bless, Sheila on 7, Slank, Superman Is Dead, Payung Teduh, Cita Citata and more.

Read also: Jakarta Fair to offer plethora of culinary delights

Antara news agency reported that legendary local band Slank was scheduled to perform twice at the event.

In addition to the music concerts, the fair is also hosting several entertainment programs, such as 2017 Miss Jakarta Fair, Kampung Betawi, Barongsai Night, Wahana Bloody House, Wahana Trampolin and Wahana Pasar Malam.

The 2017 Jakarta Fair is open daily from 3:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Monday to Thursday, and until 11 p.m. on Friday. On weekends, it is open from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Meanwhile, on Idul Fitri, the fair is slated to operate from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m. (jes/kes)

Source: Jakarta Fair boasts multi-genre music concerts

From bazaars to feasts: where to celebrate Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta

Jun 9, 2017

One of the key religious holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide, Hari Raya Puasa or Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It falls on June 25 this year, so here's where to get a taste of the festivities if you're in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta during the season.

IN SINGAPORE Geylang Serai Hari Raya light-up (till July 7, from 7pm till late)

Visit a sea of twinkling lights in motifs inspired by songket (traditional Malay brocade fabric). This year, over 900,000 LED bulbs make up beautiful arches illuminating about 2.25 km of road in Singapore's Malay quarter. Free cultural performances and movie screenings are also held on selected evenings at the Kembangan-Chai Chee Community Hub and open-air stage at Engku Aman Road. Bookmark the festival's Facebook page for updates.

Sims Avenue & Changi Road

Geylang Serai Ramadan bazaar (till June 24, from about 3pm till late)

To truly immerse in the festive atmosphere, be one of the 1.4 million visitors expected at what is arguably the most popular street bazaar in Singapore. More than 1,000 stalls offer everything from traditional delicacies and modern snacks to apparel and furnishings such as intricate rugs and Turkish lamps. Another highlight takes place on June 17 when both Muslims and non-Muslims will come together in a mass breaking-fast event.

Geylang Road, Engku Aman Road & Tanjong Katong Road

Hari Raya Puasa open house at the Istana (June 25, 8.30am-6pm)

Drop by the official residence and office of the President of Singapore on Hari Raya Puasa. Apart from a variety of performances and fun activities held on the beautifully landscaped grounds, it's also a rare opportunity to view a special display of gifts from countries all over the world. Guided tours of the state room, banquet hall and reception room in the Istana main building, as well as nature guided walks around the grounds, are also conducted throughout the day.

Orchard Road

SEE ALSO: Start planning your holidays now: 7 long weekends in Singapore for 2017

Pesta Raya – Malay Festival of Arts at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay (July 20 to 23)

Discover the icons and heritage of Malay traditional and contemporary arts and culture through both free and ticketed performances at the 16th edition of Pesta Raya. Celebrate Hari Raya with Malaysia's queen of rock Ella, and Payung Teduh, a rising indie-alternative band from Indonesia. Catch Setan Jawa (above), a silent film combining a live gamelan (traditional percussion ensemble) and western orchestra, and take part in interactive workshops for the entire family.

1 Esplanade Drive

Source: From bazaars to feasts: where to celebrate Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta

Break Fast In Style: Jakarta’s Best Buka Puasa Meals

Ramadan is a special time of year in Jakarta. With the vast majority of the city participating in fasting, non-Muslim expats and locals are easily swept up in festivities.

Buka puasa, or the breaking of the fast, becomes a celebration for everyone to take part in whether with colleagues, family or friends. But after a month it's easy to run out of ideas of which delicious meal to try next. Thankfully, we have you covered.

From the most extravagant buffets in town to the best of the rest of the world, here is where to dine next.

The Sultan Hotel, Tanah Abang

This year the Sultan is hosting 'Ramadhan Warisan Tradisi,' a feast offering the best traditional cuisine across the archipelago. Dig into gorengan, the traditional fried treats found all over the country, or a warm bowl of bakso Malang before a desert of es campur.

"Indonesian dishes are enriched with herbs and spices and the rich flavour is really suitable for breakfasting," I Nyoman Sarya, Vice President of Operations at Singgasana Hotels and Resorts, said at the launch.

The hotel is also offering seasonal deals on rooms and meeting packages. For more information visit The Sultan's website.

Mamma Rosy, Kemang

Italian fare isn't the traditional cuisine with which to breakfast — but any excuse to visit this Kemang stalwart is good enough. Enjoy perfectly cooked pizzas and rich pasta al fresco, serenaded by live music each weekend. The ravioli con aioli or fontina special risotto are fan favourites which will be sure to have any diner returning long after Idul Fitri.

For more information visit Mamma Rosy's website.

Shangri-La Hotel, Central Jakarta

The Shangri-La is a world leader in hospitality and with this year's Ramadan offer, it is easy to see why. SATOO, the hotel's international buffet restaurant, this year features a menu celebrating the food of Indonesia, Malaysia and Turkey. The buffet embraces the spices used in all three countries.

Weekday dinner is priced at Rp.408,000 (US$30) per person, while the weekend is Rp.428,000 (US$32) per person.

To make a reservation, please visit the Shangri-La website.

Image credits: El Asdor

El Asdor, Kemang

Craving steak and South American flair? Get down to El Asador in Kemang where the barbequed meats are a satisfying end to a long day of fasting — or a long day of waiting. The wood-grill restaurant uses a 'parilla' grill to create the smoky taste, unique to the Jakarta dining scene.

And for the fasting month, El Asador is offering 20 percent of food and drink between 5.30 and 8 pm.

For more information or to make a reservation please call 0217182206.

Raffles Hotel, Central Jakarta

Raffles invites guests to join the esteemed hotel for buka puasa, with two buffet sittings each evening featuring Indonesian, Turkish and Middle Eastern foods. All guests go in the draw to win a selection of prizes each week, including a weekend stay at the famous hotel, spa treatments, brunch passes and more.

The first seating each night runs from 5.45 pm to 8.30 pm at Rp.398,000 (US$30) per person, while the second seating from 8.30 pm to 10.30 pm will set guests back Rp.198,000 (US$15) per person. The price includes free flow of juice and soft drinks.

To make a reservation please call 62 21 2988 0888.

See: Foodie Heaven: Unique Restaurants In Jakarta You Must Try

The post Break Fast In Style: Jakarta's Best Buka Puasa Meals appeared first on Indonesia Expat.

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Some local news is curated - Original might have been posted at a different date/ time! Click the source link for details.
Source: Break Fast In Style: Jakarta's Best Buka Puasa Meals

Densus 88 arrests two suspected terrorists linked to East Jakarta bombings

The National Police's Densus 88 counterterrorism squad, supported by the West Java Police, arrested two suspected terrorists, identified as WT and MA, in Bandung, West Java, on Wednesday.

"WT was arrested at 8:30 a.m.," West Java Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Yusri Yunus said as quoted by Antara in Purwakarta on Wednesday.

He said WT was apprehended in Soreang, Bandung. Meanwhile, MA was arrested separately by a Densus 88 team in Cileunyi, Bandung.Yusri claimed WT and MA played a role in the recent twin suicide bombings at the Kampung Melayu bus terminal in East Jakarta, saying they gave a religious lecture to Ichwan Nurul Salam and Ahmad Sukri before they launched the attacks on May 24.  

"WT, MA and MI gave religious lectures to them [Ichwan and Ahmad] five days before the bombings. They met to hold a Quran recitation," Yusri said.

He said WT headed a team from the Asykari As Sunnah Foundation, which was located in Cileunyi, Bandung. MI is the head of the foundation.

"What they conveyed in their lecture and whether they encouraged them to become a 'bride', we are investigating it," said Yusri.

MI was arrested by Densus 88 in Jatinangor, Bandung, on Monday. He had been convicted in a separate case related to a bombing plot in Cibiru in 2010.

MI was sentenced to seven years in prison. Having received remission, he left prison in 2015 after serving five years. (afr/ebf)

Source: Densus 88 arrests two suspected terrorists linked to East Jakarta bombings

Jakarta Supports Anti - Tobacco Campaign on Transjakarta Bus

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Anti - tobacco advertisement will be displayed on Transjakarta buses for free. Jakarta Administration announced that it would let public service announcements (PSA) from the National Commission on Tobacco Control to be advertised on Transjakarta bus fleets free of tax.

According to Jakarta Regional Secretary Saefullah, the anti-tobacco public service ads will mainly feature taglines such as "Smoking Merely Burns Money" (Ngerokok Cuma Bakar Uang).

"It's free of tax because it's a public service announcement," says Saefullah on Tuesday, June 6. There are at least 21 Transjakarta fleets that will feature the anti-tobacco PSA, which can be applied continuously.

Saefullah is certain that the public service ads would be effective in campaigning against society's cigarette addiction considering that the PSA would be exposed to a wide Jakarta public.

Visually, the anti-tobacco ads show an image of an empty wallet suggesting that smoking is merely a waste of money and that it is one of the causes of poverty. "Basically it shows that smoking burns money and empties your wallet," he said.

Saefullah suggests the public have the awareness that the amount of money spent to purchase cigarettes is better used to purchase other essential needs to increase the quality of life.

The money spent for children's education will be able to elevate their social status and economy in the future, he added.

LARISSA HUDA

Source: Jakarta Supports Anti - Tobacco Campaign on Transjakarta Bus

An American’s guide to visiting Jakarta

While you may already have your summer plans laid out, it's never too soon to think about where you should escape the winter storms come this Christmas. Balmy Indonesia, perhaps?

Despite what it sometimes seems, Indonesia is more than Bali and Lombok. Destinations such as Raja Ampat, Komodo Island, Yogyakarta, and the Thousand Islands are becoming increasingly accessible from either Jakarta or Bali.

As for Jakarta itself, it's not a postcard-perfect city. It's hot and polluted and crowded, but it's also home to pockets of rarely told history, unforgettable food and experiences to last a lifetime.

If you're convinced, here's the guide for you.

Climate

Due to its position so close to the equator, Jakarta can get pretty humid, so be ready to sweat.

There aren't four seasons, either. Instead, the year is split into a wet season (October-April) and a dry season (May-September). Temperatures remain around 25 to 33 degrees Celsius year round and there is no guarantee it won't rain during the dry season.

Read also: Jakpost guide to Jl. Kemang Timur

Budget

Indonesia's currency is called the Rupiah and goes from Rp 500 and Rp 1,000 coins to the Rp 100,000 bills. Other bill denominations are 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000. You'll need to convert your cash, as US dollars aren't accepted anywhere.

If you're traveling on a budget, you might find yourself spending around Rp 500,000 (US$37) per day on things like train tickets, street food and accommodation. If you want to take taxis or ride-hailing transportation to get around, are planning on staying in a more modern hotel, and want to eat out more regularly, you may be spending closer to Rp 1 million a day.

Banks to use

There are international banks available in Indonesia, such as HSBC and Citibank. The bank you will find most often is BCA, though if you need to take out money from its machines, you may be charged a withdrawal fee.

What to wear

While you may have seen friend's pictures of them in Bali wearing a Bintang singlet and shorts, Jakarta and cities similar have a large Muslim population and dressing more modestly is the norm. You may feel more comfortable in a T-shirt and jeans if walking around the city, and if you do feel so inclined to wear shorts, they're more commonly found in Jakarta's AC'ed mega malls.

Read also: Jakpost guide to Jl. Sabang

A large crowd of local people spend their Sunday afternoon around Fatahillah Square in Jakarta's colonial old town Kota Tua on Feb. 5.(Shutterstock/File)

What to pack

While you can grab mosquito repellent at any pharmacy or convenience store, it's easier to pack a bottle and avoid being bitten on the first couple of nights.

Don't forget your medicine, either. Indonesian medicine is almost universally drowsy, so if you come down with something and would rather not waste a day asleep, be sure to pack your Dayquil.

Finally, bring a reliable umbrella. If you plan to do some walking, surprise showers may meet you at your destination.

At the airport

After disembarking from your plane at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, you won't be met with postcard-perfect views yet. Instead, it'll be the humidity that greets you. After filling out your customs form, clearing immigration and getting your bags, you can get a SIM card, take out money, and find a cab.

Passengers walk past a section of the Skytrain project, which is under construction at Terminal 3 of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, on April 24. (Antara/Iggoy el Fitra)

Where to stay

Jakarta is home to plenty of budget stays, like Central Jakarta's Old Batavia Capsule hotel, where one capsule can go for as little as Rp 140,000 a night. There's also the line of Pop Hotels, found around the city with multi-person rooms for Rp 400,000 a night.

But if you're looking to stay somewhere a little more expensive, Jakarta is home to plenty of international hotel chains. South Jakarta is home to both a Best Western and a Mercure. The city's center hosts most of the luxury hotels, and has everything from two different Ritz-Carltons, to a JW Marriott to a Raffles.

Read also: Jakpost guide to Pasar Baru

What to eat

Indonesia is known for its food, from sate (satay) to gado-gado (mixed vegetable salad with rice and peanut sauce) to nasi goreng (fried rice). All areas of Indonesia have distinct cuisines, and most can be sampled within the capital. Check out culinary app Qraved to find some inspirations.

When sampling more "authentic" street food, be careful and make sure where you're eating is at least somewhat clean. The last thing you want is food poisoning or worse, like typhoid. And if you do find yourself craving home, there are plenty of McDonalds, Burger King, KFC and Pizza Hut outlets all around the city that deliver.

Gado-gado is one of Betawi's traditional dishes that uses vegetables as the main ingredients. (Shutterstock/-)

How to get around

Thanks to the construction of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system, Jakarta's notorious traffic has gotten even worse. But fear not, because Jakarta's motorcycle taxis, known as ojek, are now all the more reliable thanks to app-based transportation services like Go-Jek, Grab and even Uber.

If you'd rather take a more traditional mode of transport, Jakarta's most reliable cab company is Blue Bird. With a meter starting at Rp 6,500, Blue Birds are known for being safe.

What to see

There are plenty of neighborhoods and streets to explore once you're in Jakarta itself. There's the iconic Kota Tua, known for its colonial architecture and handful of museums, a classic Jakarta destination. But there's also Pasar Mayestik, for when you want to do some shopping outside of the malls, or Glodok, for when you want to fuel the foodie in you.

While the mega malls are an adventure of their own, there are plenty of areas to discover aside from them.

A restaurant on the corner of Jl. Pancoran, Glodok, West Jakarta. (Shutterstock/File)

Tips

- Always know where you're going. Waze is extremely helpful for this and will make sure you hit the least amount of traffic.

- Bahasa Indonesia is not too difficult to learn, so pick up some basic phrases.

- Tipping is typically worked into the bill at restaurants already, but if you're in a cab, a salon, or somewhere else that provided a service, tipping 10 percent is customary. (sul/kes)

Source: An American's guide to visiting Jakarta

Ramadhan recipe: Hotel Santika Premiere Slipi Jakarta's iced 'selendang mayang'

Historically originating in Betawi kitchens, iced selendang mayang was once a popular dish in Jakarta. However, it is in a near state of extinction, as vendors of the traditional dessert have now become very scarce in the city. Hotel Santika Premiere Slipi Jakarta is offering the coveted iced selendang mayang for the hotel's iftar menu this year, specially prepared by assistant executive chef Singgih.

Read his secret recipe here.

(The Jakarta Post / Asmara Wreksono)

Source: Ramadhan recipe: Hotel Santika Premiere Slipi Jakarta's iced 'selendang mayang'

Ramadhan recipe: The Dharmawangsa Jakarta’s ‘es dawet’

While most people usually have es cendol (silky green rice-flour jelly served in coconut milk and palm sugar) or es teler (a beverage made of shaved ice, syrup and fruits) for iftar, the Dharmawangsa Jakarta offers a different sweet treat, es dawet, as its way to revive the dessert drink.

For those interested to try this recipe, junior sous chef Wahyudin suggests you use fresh, cold coconut milk so that the ice cubes will not melt away fast. You can also opt to sprinkle dried jackfruit crackers as topping for a richer taste. (kes)

Read also: Ramadhan recipe: Fairmont Jakarta's pizza piezza

Ingredients:

100 g green cendol

50 g sliced jackfruit

100 ml coconut milk

50 ml palm sugar

Ice cubes – as desired

Method:

Put green cendol into a glass.

Add sliced jackfruit and ice cubes as desired.

Pour coconut milk and palm sugar.

Source: Ramadhan recipe: The Dharmawangsa Jakarta's 'es dawet'

Serena Brancale: Jazzing up Jakarta

Italian jazz singer Serena Brancale had more than jazz up her sleeve in her first concert in Indonesia. (JP/A. Kurniawan Ulung)

Music lovers were treated to a night of jazz as Italian singer Serena Brancale held her first concert in Indonesia.

That night, dozens of people flocked to Gedung Kesenian Jakarta Playhouse in Central Jakarta, which hosted the show. When the stage curtains were opened, all attention was on Brancale.

In a white kimono-wrap dress, the singer started her show with a song entitled "II gusto delle cose" (The flavor of things).

"She was so cool and energetic. When she danced, my body rocked to the rhythm," said Chatrien Handayani of the 28-year-old singer.

Chatrien did not know about Brancale until she found a flyer promoting her first concert in the country. Since she liked jazz, she jostled through traffic jams to watch the show.

She also did not understand Italian. "Language is no longer a barrier when it comes to enjoying music," she said.

Held by the Italian Embassy and Italian Cultural Institute, the concert lasted for 75 minutes during which Brancale belted out 12 songs with Dario Panza on drums, Alfonso Deidda on saxophone and Daniele Sorrentino on bass.

Although known as a jazz singer in her home country, Brancale believes that music is a melting pot of various genres, sounds and ideas.

Read also: Mian Tiara: Speaking up for women's hearts

And she has what it takes to steal the attention of music lovers of any genres, switching from jazz and soul to funk, pop and R&B.

In the concert, she performed different music genres through popular songs she covered on stage, such as "Blackbird" by The Beatles, "I Want You" by American neo-soul singer Erykah Badu and "I Feel for You" by Prince.

Brancale also introduced her own work, including "Galleggiare" (Floating), a ballad that gave her a way to step into the spotlight as a young and talented singer in 2015, especially after she joined the Sanremo Music tival, the most popular Italian song contest, held annually in Sanremo.

She did not to win the contest, but earned compliments from great Italian musicians, such as Mario Biondi and Tiziana "Tosca" Donati, and respected music critics, such as Ernesto Assante and Marco Magiarotti.

In her show in Jakarta, she also boasted her skill in playing musical instruments.

She pleasantly surprised the audience when she sang a song that they were really familiar with — "Rayuan Pulau Kelapa" (Solace on a coconut island) by one of Indonesia's greatest composers, Ismail Marzuki.

They clapped and sang together with her. Brancale then invited one of them to come up on stage to sing a new Italian song she created using her smartphone.

"I like Indonesian people. They are friendlier than Italian people," she said.

Read also: Millennials making classical music great again

Although this was her first visit in the country, Indonesia is not foreign to Brancale because she says that in Italy she has friends who are Indonesian dancers.

"Every time I hear the word Indonesia, the first thing that comes to my mind is its culture," she said. "It is very colorful!" After Indonesia, she will perform in Thailand. For Brancale, traveling around the world to introduce her music is a larger-than-life experience because it is in line with her extraordinary passion for music and the arts.

When she was little, she first learned violin and piano, thanking her parents for giving their full support until she was able to start her professional singing career at the age of 16.

Brancale, who perfected her singing skills at renowned music school Niccolò Piccinni Conservatory in her hometown of Bari, then got the opportunity to record her own music after signing a deal with producer Michele Torpedine, who was also the manager of superstar Andrea Bocelli and opera pop trio Il Volo.

After going back to Italy, Brancale, who is preparing a new record this year, is slated to tour with singer Biondi this spring.

Besides singing, she also likes acting. She starred in the drama Mio Cognate (My brother-in-law) in 2003 and Da Che Parte

Stai (From your part) in 2013. For the big fan of Grammy winner Stevie Wonder, singing is as interesting as acting because a singer must be able to liven up the story of each song she or he sings on the stage.

"Singing different songs on stage is like wearing different masks in a theater show where an actor must be able to conquer every role he or she plays."

Source: Serena Brancale: Jazzing up Jakarta

Ramadan recipe: The Dharmawangsa Jakarta’s ‘mie kocok’

Originating from Bandung, mie kocok (Bandung specialty beef noodle soup) is known for its rich broth and noodles along with other ingredients, which include kikil (beef tendon), sambal (chili) and fried shallots.

In order to bring out the flavor of the beef stock, The Dharmawangsa Jakarta's junior sous chef Wahyudin says that the length of time the soup is cooked for will depend on the portion. "If it's for one portion, then the maximum time is 45 minutes," he said.

When the beef stock is ready, people can add lemongrass and other ingredients to make it taste richer.

On the contrary, people should avoid cooking the noodles and bean sprouts for too long as these ingredients will quickly be cooked in the broth. The yellow noodles can also be replaced with other types of noodles. (kes)

Read also: Ramadhan recipe: Fairmont Jakarta's special laksa

Ingredients:

100 g bean sprouts

100 g yellow noodles

Stock:

350 ml mineral water

200 g beef trimmings

50 g lemongrass

5 g lime leaf

Cardamom – as desired

Salt - as desired

Pepper - as desired

Condiments:

50 g celery

6 g fried shallots

Sambal - as desired

1 lime

Sweet soy sauce - as desired

Kikil - as desired

Kikil mie kocok ingredients:

Oil - as desired

2 cloves of garlic

350 g boiled kikil beef tunjang (beef tendon)

50 ml mineral water

50 ml sweet soy sauce

Salt - as desired

Pepper - as desired

Method:

To make the stock, boil water in a soup pot over medium heat.

Add beef trimmings, lemongrass, lime leaves and cardamom.

Wait a maximum of 45 minutes. Set aside.

To make kikil as a condiment for the mie kocok, heat oil in a pan, add garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant.

Add boiled kikil, mineral water and sweet soy sauce as desired. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Set aside.

To make the main components of mie kocok, soak bean sprouts and yellow noodles for a while in a boiling water. Rinse. Set aside.

Place bean sprouts and yellow noodles in a bowl, pour on the stock.

Add the condiments as desired on top of the mixed yellow noodle and bean sprouts.

Source: Ramadan recipe: The Dharmawangsa Jakarta's 'mie kocok'