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Climate change and our grandchildren

The COP in Durban has finally come to the end. The “good news” is: a new international (supposed to be legally binding) pact is produced. This pact will more strongly push the emerging countries such as China and India to take action in slowing down the impact of global warming towards climate change, rising of sea levels, extreme weather systems. And all is for the sake of the our children in the future.

I don’t know how to put this nicely, but maybe… “bullshit” is a proper word.

Seriously? Is this all really about saving the planet? About mitigating the global warming effects? About securing the future of our grandchildren? I don’t think so. From what I see, those people sitting around the negotiation tables are thinking only to deliver their job well, to boost their career, to earn or to preserve their good name, to show off skills and authority. It’s all simply about power, money, about feeding those-so-called environmentalists and, well, politicians and capital-owners on this aged Earth.

I do believe that the environment is so damn damaged by human activities and that we – as the dweller of the Earth – need to do something. But, I am very skeptical on how UN making up the scheme to “save the planet.” Again, I only see money is everybody’s primary interest. It is more like a short-cut to distribute the developed-countries’ wealth to the unfortunate ones.

Take Indonesia as an example. The Government has set a policy called: pro-growth, pro-jobs, pro-poor*, and pro-environment (which additionally added a few years ago). It means environment is the least priority. Using excuses of not polluting (that) much and that as a developing country Indonesia is still struggling in its economic development, the country tries hard persuading the rich countries to invest their money for clean development. Fake.

Take USA for another example. As one of the biggest polluter, they commit to reduce and/or compensate their national carbon footprint. However, USA had never ratified its commitment to combat climate change. I don’t blame them. I would probably say “bravo” to such courage. They are quite persistent in becoming the enemy of the world :) .

European Union is another story. As the strongest group party in the forum, they seem being pushed very hard as the most responsible one among others and seen as the richest “kid in the family.” Therefore, they should “pay” the most. It is so fascinating to watch how EU has not stopped dragging the three biggest polluters from developing economics: China, India, and Brazil, putting more blame on them.

UNFCCC sounds like one big intriguing family, doesn’t it?

www.cartoonland.de/archiv/die-geschichte-der-welt-in-stopmotion/
(This video is irrelevant, but I kinda like it)

* I actually disagree with the term of “pro-poor” here. Because compared to the other three “pros”, pro-poor is so wrong. No wonder there are more and more poor people around.

** I consider having career in climate change world (I am moving towards that direction). I guess I am not supposed to write something so skeptical like this :D

 
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Posted by on December 11, 2011 in English, Grumble, Serious Talk

 

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Jadwal Libur 2012 (Holiday!!)

:)

Tahun 2011 hampir berlalu… sudah saatnya kita melihat masa depan… mencari celah untuk berlibur di tengah kesibukan yang begitu padatnya… hahaha… Here I announce the list of holiday in Indonesian calendar 2012. Enjoy!!

Minggu 1 Januari Tahun Baru Masehi
Senin  23 Januari Tahun Baru Imlek 2563
Minggu 5 Februari Maulud Nabi Muhammad SAW
Jumat 23 Maret Hari Raya Nyepi Tahun Baru Saka 1934
Jumat  6 April Wafat Yesus Kristus
Minggu 6 Mei Hari Raya Waisak 2556
Kamis 17 Mei Kenaikan Yesus Kristus
Sabtu  16 Juni Isra Miraj Nabi Muhammad SAW
Jumat 17 Agustus Hari Kemerdekaan RI
Minggu - Senin 19 – 20 Agustus Hari Raya Idul Fitri 1433 H
Jumat 26 Oktober Hari Raya Idul Adha 1433 H
Kamis 15 November Tahun Baru Hijriyah 1434 H
Selasa  25 Desember Hari Raya Natal
     
Jumat 18 Mei Cuti bersama Kenaikan Yesus Kristus
Selasa - Rabu 21 – 22 Agustus Cuti bersama Idul Fitri
Jumat 16 November Cuti bersama tahun Baru 1434 H
Senin 24 Desember Cuti bersama Hari Raya Natal

Tidak lupa saya sertakan SK Bersama 3 Menteri yang menjadi sumber rujukan saya.

SK Bersama Jadwal Libur 2012

Enjoy holiday!

:D

 
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Posted by on November 30, 2011 in Bahasa Indonesia, Fun Stuff, Life

 

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7 Attitudes to Survive in Jakarta

Let’s face it. Living in Jakarta is getting more and more ridiculously challenging (“challenging” is a word the optimists use which is actually synonymous to: hard, difficult, complicated, and tricky :D ).

It will be a boring repetition, but I have to mention again why Jakarta is so (damn) not easy. The air is heavily polluted, the traffic is frustratingly congested, the rivers and canals sickeningly stink, and the living cost is relatively high. Above all, we still have to face various people who many of them are cynical, opportunist, individualistic, hypocritical, and depressed

 Having lived here for a few years gives me the idea to share some of my observations, conclusions, and (perhaps) tips to survive in this “lovely” city.

First, patience. You need it a LOT. You have to be patient. Most of the frustration you face in Jakarta is out of your control and there is nothing you can do but to be patient. Trust me in this. If you try too hard to make things under control (people are naturally control freaks), you will find yourself beaten up because you are helpless. If Fauzi Bowo can’t fix all those problems faced by the Jakartan, most likely, neither can you. So, why don’t you stop complaining and start establishing some smart tricks to get along well with the city?

Second, patience. Yes, after supplying so much patience to get along with everything, you still need to spare another form of patience in order to rejuvenate your spirit and energy. This second layer of patience will keep you willing to continue living the unhealthy metropolitan life.

Third, indifference. You don’t have to care about everything around you, including people’s opinion regarding you and what you’re doing. And since I am purely admirer of Paulo Coelho, I will happily quote his words: “what other people think about you is none of your business.”

Fourth, ignorance. Ignorance is bliss, you know. Although for the whole life you have been preached to always dig all knowledge in the world, sometimes being ignorant is harmless. What you don’t know will not hurt you.

Fifth, arrogance (or probably I should call it: confidence). Trust in yourself and believe that you’re a meaningful creature having some important missions to do. You are significant and you play an important role. Otherwise, you will feel miserable and useless and you will want to die.

Sixth, optimism. Nothing is eternal in this world, so is in Jakarta, so is the depression. Live your day lightly and calmly. Don’t take too hard on too many things. When you are drowned in so much trouble then take a deep breath and have your golden slumber. You deserve it. Afterwards, you may start planning some strategy to face all challenges. Everything will flow.

Seventh, respect. Other people are frustrated too. They also have to deal with their nagging wives, lazy husbands, naughty kids, stupid partners, annoying colleagues, never-ending tasks, corrupt government officers, or fraudulent real estate agent (hehehe). So, try to understand when sometimes they act unrealistically. We are all human anyway.

:-)

 
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Posted by on November 13, 2011 in English, Fun Stuff, Life, List, Tips, Urban Living

 

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Help!

A song is always someone’s soundtrack of life. I have plenty on my own. But, this song is extraordinary as every single word of the lyrics is so applicable for me — at the very moment. And… have I told you that I really like the Beatles? HELP! is one of my favorites. Enjoy!

—–

(seriously, I hope you enjoy it! I also like the video. It’s creatively simple. It’s simply creative)

—–

Help!

Help, I need somebody,
Help, not just anybody,
Help, you know I need someone,
Help!

When I was younger, so much younger than today,
I never needed anybody’s help in anyway.
But now these days are gone, I’m not so self assured,
Now I find I’ve changed my mind, I’ve opened up the doors

Help me if you can, I’m feeling down
And I do appreciate you being ’round.
Help me get my feet back on the ground,
Won’t you please, please help me?

And now my life has changed in oh so many ways,
My independence seems to vanish in the haze.
But every now and then I feel so insecure,
I know that I just need you like, I’ve never done before.

Help me if you can, I’m feeling down
And I do appreciate you being ’round.
Help me get my feet back on the ground,
Won’t you please, please help me?

—–

 
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Posted by on October 27, 2011 in English, Fun Stuff, Life, Music

 

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Cacao or Cocoa?

Fruit of cacao

Image by Petr Kosina via Flickr

 

What is the difference between cacao and cocoa?

At first, I really thought I was making a spelling mistake when I wrote down “cacao” on a picture I made during my trip to Sulawesi. A friend nudged me and gave me the idea that hey, there are actually two different words for this-thing-related-to-chocolate. So (as usual) I made a google research to enlighten me.

It’s truly amazing how the Internet can help you out in every single question come in your mind, isn’t it?

I found many literatures explaining what cacao and cocoa are. I will attach only two of them and hopefully it answers your curiosity as it had done for mine.

http://www.allchocolate.com/understanding/cacao-vs-cocoa/

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cacao

In short, cacao refers to the tree and the beans. While cocoa is more about the products of the beans, such as cocoa powder and cocoa butter. They are both correct words in English and they can be used interchangeably. From the link I attach above, you will find how the original word “cacao” has been replaced through error to “cocoa.” More interestingly, although Indonesia is one of the biggest cacao producers in the world, I just knew how it looks like in reality a couple of weeks ago :-) . What a shameful Indonesian I am!

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2011/09/09/indonesia-track-be-asia%E2%80%99s-largest-cacao-based-producer.html

;)

 
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Posted by on October 15, 2011 in English, Fun Stuff, Miscellaneous

 

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The K-Craze

Why Indonesian is so crazy about Korean culture? (Yes, please, can anybody tell me why?! :-D )

Korean pop culture is amazingly penetrating Indonesian market in a fantastic speed. Teenagers (mostly girls) are crazy of all those imported culture and I get the feel that it will last in a relatively long time until another trend come to replace the excitement of K-soap operas, K-music, K-boy bands, K-fashion, and not to mention the K-hair style.

I won’t blame those young girls. The industry knows very well about what this particular segment wants and they work creatively to fill the empty spot just right in time. These girls are obsessed with romance, with the coolness yet manly characters in the dramas, and of course with some cute boys jumping up and down the stage.

I still remember when several years ago the Japanese “invaded” our entertainment world with its famous J-pop culture. It was when (again) teenagers became fans of Japanese artists and followed its popular culture. J-fashion and comic books were booming.

The difference is that J-pop fever came after Japanese technology has steadily stick its feet in our market. K-pop fever works the other way around. Korean uses tourism, art, and food to boost its technology.

I have my own “battle” with Korean. But I can objectively say that I never be a fan of Korean arts since day 1 I watched K-soap opera (nor Japan soap opera, nor Indonesian! I basically don’t like soap opera). For me, K-drama is too “drama queene” (although I must admit that they are not as corny as soap operas in general). I also find it too depressing – I’m always unhappy after watching it, and… I really can’t stand the hair of those “cute” boys in it.

http://www.animecubed.com/korean-drama/

And… I couldn’t enjoy Korean music as much as many people do. The music is not spectacular and the lyrics are foreign for my ears. They are indeed beautiful people, though. They dance energetically and attractively. They absolutely have done such a hard work to be recognized this well.

K-pop has definitely replaced J-pop fame by its mesmerizing good-looking actors and melancholic dramas. I wonder when the fever will subside and be substituted by another foreign pop culture in a few years to come. I wonder when the I-pop (I for Indonesian, not Indian, hehe) will be the champion of its people.

:)

 
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Posted by on October 12, 2011 in English, Fun Stuff, Urban Living

 

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Random Statistics #1

40% of male tourists visit the Philippines for sex.

Some spontaneous questions in mind were:

  1. Are Philippines girls that attractive?
  2. Are Philippines girls that cheap?
  3. Are Philippines girls that attractively cheap?
  4. Is it limited only to the girls?
  5. Is it a worthy strategy for tourism?

But then I browse the Internet to look for some evidence, or at least to know whose statistics it is. It turned out to be the US ambassador for the Philippines’ statement which does not have sufficient back up to support. He then had expressed his remorse and apology for making such strong statement.

Read the news here

Nonetheless, I am pretty sure that male tourists come to Indonesia mostly for its pretty beaches (beach walking, snorkeling, sun-bathing), its rich seas (diving, surfing), its delicious food (hot spicy sauces and fresh seafood), its tremendous volcanoes (we are in the ring of fire, aren’t we?), and its exotic culture (the dancing, rituals, crafts). It is definitely not for sex (or at least not at 40% rate, hehehe…)

 
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Posted by on October 9, 2011 in Fun Stuff, Statistics

 

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The Hands

Cold outside. It’s always cold when I’m sad. Even in the long drought when the rain is reluctant to shower the dusty road. Even in the middle of the day when Mister Sun spread his shiny ray.

The world is mocking me. For I’ve been too happy lately. Doesn’t she know that I was happy because I solicit myself to be? Yes I do ask this little girl in me to be a lady. Embracing the bitterness, and blessing it as it gilds my naive soul.

Oh it is so cold even inside. I wish I had a pair of hands keeping me warm. The hands I’ve been missing since when – I can’t remember. These are the hands that are invisible and stay invisible so I can’t trace them nor pull them closer wrapping my body, and warmer wrapping my soul.

I vomit. The painkillers are bitter. The pills that should’ve murdered the beloved pain in my chest. They do not. It was all hallucination to keep me smiling – that is my only duty anyway, to simply smile to this funnily bitter – bitterly funny path of life. Screw you.

Those hands. The silly ignorant lazy big hands. Leaving me with smirk all over their faces. Don’t they know I’m afraid of being left behind? They do know, yet they do it anyway. They do know, yet… they are leaving anyway…

Jakarta, 21 September 2011

 
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Posted by on September 22, 2011 in English, Grumble, Life, Poetry

 

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What would happen if…

Oh I couldn’t sleep
thinking of you and you and you
And yes the other two you

What would happen if you and I never be apart?
What would happen if I didn’t do that impulsive act?
What would happen if you were ten years younger?
Or if I was five years older?
What would happen if you were not an atheist or if I were not religious?

What would happen if we were not separated by the oceans and mountains or simply the terrible Jakarta traffic?
What would happen if you forgave me for being so bright?
What would happen if you accepted me for being full of jealousy?
What would happen if you could see the good in you… as well as in me?

Oh dear there are so many possibilities
If only I was given chances to show you that I am not as great as you presumed
And I am not as cheesy as you feared of

Can you imagine how wonderful we could be?

?

 
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Posted by on September 15, 2011 in English, Grumble, Poetry

 

I Learned Today

.

So today another collapse relapsed
Dropped me in the middle of the undone puzzle
Where the pieces are not even available
Should I just leave the board and walk away?

And today another lesson I learned
The never-ending and eternal judgement
Some are true – I never see it that way
Some are completely shitty – well shit happens anyway

But today I can still stand tall
With my chin up and enormous forgiving heart
With a vivid vision of the future that is bright
I embrace my history as my gilding story

Yes today
I learned to forgive myself eventually

 

Jakarta, 5 September 2011

 
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Posted by on September 5, 2011 in English, History, Life, Philosophy, Poetry

 

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