Bali Updates

BALI UPDATE #663 - 25 May 2009

OzJet Perth-Bali Service Grounded.
Tuesday, May 19th Flight Grounded in Perth Due to Unpaid Bills to Perth Airport Authorities.

The future of the twice-weekly Perth to Bali service operated by OzJet and IndoJet is now in question with the Australian company placing itself in voluntary administration as a move to stave off closure.
A group of around 60 Australian tourist were stranded on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, when the Boeing 737-200 operated by OzJet, in cooperation with their Indonesian partner IndoJet, failed to leave for Bali as scheduled.
While Melbourne-based OzJet tried to lay the blame for the cancelled service on the Australian Civil Aviation Authorities' refusal to grant them a license to carry cargo and on their Indonesian partners, a more likely explanation was the refusal of Perth Airport to service the flights in the face of "hundreds of thousands of dollars" in unpaid fees due the airport. Meanwhile, the Australian Civil Aviation Authorities have issued a statement that OzJet had never filed a formal request for cargo services.
OzJet primarily operates flights to remote mining communities in Western Australian in addition to its twice weekly flights to Bali.
While there are reports that OzJets flight to Derby may now be operating with chartered aircraft, there is still no news on the fate of its international service to Bali.
OzJet is the third Australian airline to go into administration over the past year, following in the footsteps of SkyAirWorld and MacAir.

Toke, Toke, Toke that Cigarette
Indonesian Clove Cigarette Producers Suggest More than Just the Air is Being Fouled by U.S. Government Moves to Ban Popular Scented Indonesian Cigarettes.

The U.S. government is moving to ban the use of cigarette flavorings as a step to discourage teenagers from taking up smoking. Cherry, chocolate and clove additives will be banned if legislation being considered by the U.S. Senate is passed. Specifically exempted from the proposed ban, after intense lobbying by the U.S. tobacco industry, is the used of mint-flavored menthol cigarettes such as Marlboro Smooth.
As anyone who has ever visited Indonesia can confirm, the distinctive pervasive smell of burning cloves mixedd with Indonesian tobacco greets the nose wherever Indonesian's gather to 'light up' their overwhelmingly preferred tobacco product. So large, in fact, is the Indonesian clove cigarette industry that Indonesia holds the distinction of being both the largest producer as well as the largest importer of cloves in the world; all needed to feed the almost insatiable demand for clove-laced smokes.
The Indonesian Ambassador to the U.S.A., Sudjadnan Parnohadiningrat, has gone on record condemning the proposed legislation as 'blatantly favoring a domestically produced product over an imported one' if the legislation allows menthol flavoring to the exclusion of other flavorings, such as cloves.
The potential for the matter to become increasingly incendiary in the months ahead is the threat from the Indonesian government to bring the matter to the World Trade Organization which could jeopardize the $22 billion-a-year trade relationship with Indonesia.
Indonesia exports an estimated US$500 million in clove or Kretek cigarettes every year, with approximately 20% of that total destined for U.S. markets.

Top Athletes to Join MRA Bali International Triathlon.
For Spectators and Athletes Alike, a Memorable Day Promised on June 28th at MRA Bali International Triathlon.

With just 5 weeks left until the 3rd MRA Bali International Triathlon on Sunday, June 28, 2009, organizers report that athletes registering for the individual and group events are slightly ahead of last year, when compared on a year-on-year basis.
Now a permanent fixture on Bali's sport's calendar, the MRA Bali International Triathlon is comprised of a 1.5 km swim in Jimbaran Bay, a 40 km bike race down Bali's southernmost peninsula and finishing with a 10 km road race through the village of Jimbaran. Held simultaneously with the triathlon is a 5 km fun run.
Reflecting the growing interest in triathlon in Asia and Indonesia, there is a marked increase in regional and domestic registrations this year. Indonesian swimming icon Richard Sambera will return to Bali this June, competing as an individual triathlete. Sambera, editor of Men's Fitness (Indonesia) and FHM (Indonesia), will use the race to bring to a close a series of articles on training and preparing for a triathlon featured in Men's Fitness' recent issues.
Following Sambera to Bali will be a number of Indonesian national athletes competing as corporate team relay members. 2007 Southeast Asia Game Silver Medalist Andy Wibowo and national swimming star Ira Kurniawan will travel to Bali together with champion cyclist Nurhayati and marathon runner Maria Lawalata. The Bali race is also promises to lure back a number of the athletes who participated in the 2008 Asian Beach games.
Last year's overall winner, Luke McKenzie, and his partner-fellow triathlete Amanda Balding will fly in to Bali from sporting engagements in Tokyo to join the 2009 Bali race. McKenzie's and Balding's appearance in Bali is made possible through the generous support of Garuda Indonesia.
A special festival will be held at Race Central on yhe morning of June 28th at Coconut Grove Beach, opposite the Four Seasons Resort in Jimbaran. The Four Seasons in cooperation with the Intercontinental Bali Resort are the main hotel sponsors for this year's event. The festival, running throughout the morning of the race, will include live music, games, food and beverage outlets, commercial stands and free massages from Jari Menari
Registered race participants will receive high quality race t-shirts, competitor swim caps, a pre-race high-carbohydrate dinner at the Four Seasons Resort at Jimbaran Bay, invitations to a post race lunch and party, discounted tours and water sports activities during their stay in Bali, and special rates at Bali hotels. Prizes from Bali hotels and other businesses will be presented with a custom-made trophy for each age and gender category donated by Jenggala Ceramics.
Also joining as a major sponsor this year is Counterpain - the popular analgesic ointment produced by Bristoil-Meyers.
And, as in years past, BIMC Hospital will be providing field hospital services for the race.
Related Websites
[MRA Bali International Triathlon Website]
[Luke McKenzie Website]
[Amanda Balding Website]

Superman is Dead! Long Live Superman.
Kuta Punk Rock Band Poised to Shake Up the American Music Scene During 35 Day Concert Tour.

Bali's punk rock pioneers Superman is Dead (SID) are about to embark on a major U.S.A. tour, spreading their unique style of Kuta Rock on tour dates between June 2 - July 9, 2009. During those 35 days SID will perform some 18 concert gigs in 17 cities, including a multi-city segment with the legendary Vans Warped Tour, only the second Asian band to be invited to do so.
Playing together in one form or another since 1995, Bobby Kool (lead vocals and guitar), Eka Rock (bass player and backing vocalist) and Jerink (drummer) - the three men who comprise Superman is Dead have more than paid their dues with minor indie labels and gigs at less than salubrious dives before finally singing a record deal with Sony-BMG in 2003.
That hard fought negotiation with Sony-BMG included the understanding that the band would be allowed to record most of their numbers in English and also have complete control over their own image. All this from a band who narrowly escaped the Bali bombing of 2002 that took place only 75 meters from their Kuta base.
The U.S.A. tour will allow audiences there to see first hand the musicians who pack Bali's music venues whenever they play and understand why the band has won numerous music awards.
When asked to self-describe their musical style, the band says they are Punk-Rock-a-Bali a mixture of sounds inspired by U.S.A. punk legends NOFX (pronounced No Ef-Ex) and Social Distortion, supersonically fueled with beer-soaked Balinese Rockabilly attitude. Got it? That description alone should drive droves of punk rock devotee to SIDs concerts or conversely serve as fair warning to others get out of town before these guys take the stage.
Proudly Balinese despite their firm embrace of cutting edge punk rock, SID put on a powerful hyper-ventilated stage performance. Girls, and perhaps not a few guys, are drawn to this trio of over-heated musicians with tattooed chiseled physiques, on ready display once their shirts get ditched as the concert cranks up. Accordingly, those expecting to see three demure Balinese guys, all smiles and socially reticent are in for a surprise: This band says what it wants to say, how it wants to say it, and, to be more precise, what they have to say they do so straight in your face.
Mothers of America, lock your daughters at home. These guys love their punk rock, cold beer and night-long partying.
U.S.A. Tour Dates and Cities
- June 02, 2009 Key Club, Los Angeles, California
- June 05, 2009 New York City with the Rock USA Tour
- June 06, 2009 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with the Rock USA Tour
- June 07, 2009 Washington, D.C. with the Rock USA Tour
- June 13, 2009 Los Angeles, California with the Rock USA Tours
- June 19, 2009 Seattle, Washington with the Rock USA Tour
- June 20, 2009 Seattle, Washington with the Rock USA Tour
- June 26, 2009 Pomona Fairplex, Pomona, California
- June 27, 2009 Pier 30/32, San Francisco, California
- June 28, 2009 Seaside Park, Ventura, California
- June 30, 2009 Cricket Pavilion, Phoenix, California
- July 01, 2009 NMSU Pan American Center, Los Angeles, California
- July 02, 2009 AT& T Center, San Antonio, Texas
- July 03, 2009 The Showgrounds at Sam Houston Race Park, Houston, Texas
- July 05, 2009 Superpages.com, Dallas, Texas
- July 07, 2009 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Indianapolis, Indiana
- July 08, 2009 Post Gazette Pavilion at Star Lake, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- July 09, 2009 Time Warner Cable Amphitheatre, Cleveland, Ohio
Related Website
[Superman is Dead Website]

Little Bali Support for Taller Buildings
Bali Tourism Leaders Voice Their Opposition to Any Change that Will Allow 33 Meter High Buildings.

Efforts in some circles to change Bali's zoning and building regulations (RTRWP) to permit the building of 33 meters high structures - more than twice the current limit of 15 meters, is gaining virtually no support from Bali religious leaders, academicians, social commentators and tourism figures - all united in their opposition to the proposed building code change.
I Gusti Bagus Yudhara, past chairman of the Bali branch of the Indonesian Association of Travel Agents (ASITA), told the Bali Post that any agreement to change to current height limitation would only serve to open the door for changes in other areas. Yudhara said special exclusions for hospitals, schools, universities and public markets to allow structures standing 33 meters would be used as the basis for seeking wider exemptions for other classes of buildings in the future.
Elaborating on his reasons for opposing the change in maximum height rules, Yudhara said taller buildings would add to the general disorder in Bali and put added strain on an already over-burdened infrastructure. Finally, he sees permission for taller buildings as threatening the special character of the island and, in turn, its long-term sustainability as a tourism destination.
Arguing for retaining the 15 meter maximum height rule, Yudhara said that limited land area problems could be better addressed by allowing new buildings in Bali's north and east in accordance with approved zoning laws and supported by good access roads.
Separately, another tourism activist, Putu Juliadi, condemned plans to change the height restriction as not reflecting the Balinese people's love of culture, art and religion. Changes in the current rules, he insisted, would only serve special segments of society at the cost of Bali's future.
The Chairman of the Bali Chapter of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI), Tjokorda Artha Ardhana Sukawati, sees no need for a change to the current rules, fearing any change would have a negative impact on Bali's tourism industry.

Bali Sani Paadma and Bali Sani Suites to be Sold at Auction.
Denpasar Court Ruling Paves the Way for Sale of Two Hotels Embroiled in Conflict Betweeb its Owners Since 2001.

Radar Bali reports that the Denpasar District Court has approved the petition of a part owner of the Bali Sani Hotel to be allowed to sell the hotel at public auction. Ruling on May 14, 2009, judge Istining Kadariswati, affirmed the right of Lie Thien Ping to auction the hotel and also ruled that the defendant, Soeharjo Gondo, had violated the law by attempting to run the hotel unilaterally and by selling five vehicles owned by the company.
The judge dissolved the joint ownership of both the Hotel Grand Bali Sani Suites and the Hotel Bali Sani Padma, granting Lie Thien Ping the right to sell the hotels, land, furniture, inventories and other items via auction. The judge also fined Soehardjo Gondo and affirmed the current seizure of the hotels assets.
Trouble at the hotels date from 2001 when Surabaya businessmen Soehardjo Gondo and Lie Thein Ping purchased the hotel together with Hendy Setiawan of Bali from the Bank Restructuring Agency. The value of that transaction was Rp. 23 billion (US$2 million) with management of the hotels to be handled by PT Sani Mitra Lestari. Based on the respective investment of each party, Soehardjo Gondo was issued 45% of the available shares, an amount equal to the shares held by Lie Thien Ping. The remaining 10% of the shares were issued to Hendy Setiawan.
Relations between Lie and Soehardjo soured over time, with Soehardjo taking over the management of the hotels, reportedly without consulting the remaining two shareholders.
In his successful efforts to regain his share of the hotels, Lie Thien Ping also filed a civil suit against Soehardjo and a criminal complaint with the police alleging malfeasance and providing false statements.

Cleaning Up our Act.
Norwegian Property Agent and Developer Urges Bali to Not Compromise When it Comes to Preserving its Cultural Values.

Bali Post has carried an interview with a Norwegian property agent and developer, Terje H. Nilsen, urging Bali to protect its identity and unique attractiveness. He is particularly intent that Bali preserve it cultural vales which differentiate it from other destinations. Nilsen explained, "tourism surveys by several international institutions have the same results: the main reasons international tourist are attracted to Bali are the people of Bali and their culture."
A number of foreign travel publications have repeatedly cited Bali as the best holiday destination in the world, always citing the people and culture 'factors' as the basis for such awards. Nilsen concluded: 'So we have to hold onto this fact. Quit looking for something new when everything is already here in Bali's local values.'
Nilsen believes that one of the things most admired by foreigners visiting Bali is the island's loyalty to tradition and the rules handed down by their ancestors. One of these rules is the limitation on the height of building which must not surpass the height of a coconut tree (15 meters). Nilsen see this restriction in both a spiritual and ecological context.
The Norwegian businessman feels that when people visit Bali they are overjoyed to see that buildings do not hamper views. Adding: "You can imagine if small Bali is covered with 33 meter high hospitals, universities, schools and markets as is currently being proposed. If special exemptions are given, hotels and other sorts of building will follow."
Nilsen told the Bali Post that he hoped Bali would not destroy itself by taking steps that will weaken its unique position in the world. He urged Bali to study from a number of destinations in Southern Europe who abandoned their unique identities in search of "something new" only to find tourists and investors lost any interest in their cities.
Citing an example from his own country of Norway where a small town controls all its old buildings and tourist objects with a very firm hand. The government and tourism stakeholders know that permission to construct a new building, even for private use, is very selective. "To ask permission to replace only a window, is very difficult," said Nilsen.
He feels that the investors allowed to come to Bali have been able to do so without any selectivity. There are those who have built as their heart desires, often only thinking of return on investment and no concern with local style and nuance. This has happened because Bali's law is not firm and officials are prepared to compromise. As a result, we have building permits issued form structures standing in the green zone or near temples. "Frankly, I am very worried," said Nilsen.
Foreign investors should be more careful. Usually they will ask first what and where they can build and use eco-friendly construction methods. If they get "strange information" these people will choose not to invest. Genuine investors know there are global rules on investing. What's more, the European Union will require from 2016 that all resorts built in their territories must be environmentally friendly," he explained.
In addition to examining zoning rule, Nilsen also focused on the ownership of tourism assets in Bali, 85% of which he claims are held by people from outside Bali. He sees that as a rampant situation with the potential of sparking social conflict. He asks and then warns: "Where will the Balinese people be exiled to from the homeland? If we are not careful, this is what well happen."
Other Views
Two tourists from California, John and Lynn Gordon, share the same opinion. They did not come all the way to Bali to see skyscrapers, of which there are many "back home." Tourists come to Bali to experience its religious feelings and uniqueness in the world.
John Gordon sees the suggestion to allow higher buildings as a form of greed. This is a mistake which should be corrected. John and Lynn admit that they came to Bali because of its unique culture, beautiful nature and well-preserved temples. John Gordon said: "The sacredness of your temples must be safeguarded. Many of us tourists come to Bali because of the presence of temples."
Regina, a tourist from Jakarta, also objects if Bali follows in the footsteps of Jakarta and other large cities in Indonesia allowing skyscrapers to be built. Regina, who together with her group, has come to Bali on numerous occasions, sees current development in Bali as uncontrolled. She said that Bali can develop, but that development must be guided by a good zoning law. "We're having a hard time finding Bali's identity," Regina said. "Except for the construction of temples, building and development are no longer defined. This will get worse if the suggestion to change the height of building and allows tall structures to be built is approved. In Jakarta we have tall buildings, we go to Bali and they also have tall buildings? This is getting tiresome."

Pulling the Plug on New Investment.
Inadequate Electrical Supply is Contributing to Slowdown of New Investments in Bali.

The Jakarta Post reports that limited power supplies are causing headaches for domestic and foreign investors in Bali.
Quoting the vice-chairman of the Bali branch of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce (KADIN), Tedja Nandi Yasa, the lack of power on Bali's electrical grid has become severe: "We (Kadin) have been working hard to promote Bali, but the anxiety over the minimum electricity supply has eliminated almost 50 percent of the chance to invest here."
According to Yasa, efforts to lobby both the central and provincial government to takes steps to increase electrical supplies have had minimum effect.
It's unclear how much the lack of electrical power is to blame for the steep downturn in new investment in Bali. The Bali Invesment Coordinating Board (BKPM-Bali) reported only US$5.12 million in new investment during Q1 2009 against a targeted US$572 million.
Currently, Bali's power grid has the capacity of handling 562 megawatts with peak hour consumption reaching 490 megawat.
In a step to supplement power reserves, a controversial coal-powered plant is being built at Celukan Bawang in North Bali. Although designed to add 390 megwatts of additional power, that project is encountering numerous delays and is unlikely to come on line as scheduled by the end of 2010.
Alternative plans to install an extra-high-voltage aerial transmission line (SUTET) to bring 1,000 megwattas of power to Bali from East Java have been vetoed by Bali's governor. The governor's objections were reportedly based on his concrn that the proposed high power transmission lines would transect the the West Bali National Park, home of the last population of endangered Bali Starlings, and sacred temple areas on Bali.
Economist Wayan Ramantha from Bali's Udayana University has pointed to Bali's poor infrastructure and public facilities as also contributing to the island's lack of attractiveness to potential investors. He also cited the lack of clear regulations and taxation systems.

Keeping a Low-Profile Branding for Bali.
Noted Balinese Economist Lays Out Why He is Joining the Chorus of Those Opposed to Increasing Building Height Restrictions to 33 Meters.

The following interview with noted Balinese economist, Professor Dr. W. Ramantha, appeared in the May 20, 2009, edition of Bali Post. Dr. Ramanatha, who also serves as a Commissioner for the Bali Tourism Development Corporation, is the Dean of the Economic Faculty at Bali's Udayana University. What follows is a free translation of that interview.
Bali Post: What is the economic impact of the suggestion to allow buildings of up to 33 meters in height in Bali?
Professor Ramantha: What must be first understood is that the economy of Bali is very dependent on tourism, while the capital of tourism is culture. Thus, the suggestion to increase the building height requirement to 33 meters is an idea that that will hurt the "working capital" of tourism (i.e. culture), making the proposal economically unsupportable as it will negatively impact Bali's economy.
Bali Post: What must be done to profit Bali?
Professor Ramantha: Preserve the provincial rules on building height in place since the time of Professor Mantra's period of service as Bali's governor. By keeping the rule that does not allow buildings higher than a coconut palm (15 meters), Bali will preserve its branding, creating an added value to the island's economy.
Bali Post : How much does this matter in terms of a fair distribution of economic benefits?
Professor Ramantha: It's very significant. By holding to the existing rules, tourism investment, especially in the accommodation sector, will not be only focused on Bali's southern regions. New investments will spread to other regencies, each with their own potential and unique attractions.
Bali Post: What's the impact on investment in Bali?
Professor Ramantha : It is precisely by safeguarding the unique characteristics embodied in our building codes that the accommodation sector will profit. Our unique buildings cause tourists to pay more to stay in our hotels and this increase the income of hotels in Bali.

We Get Mail.
Strippers, Balinese Tradition, Airport Management, Alcohol Taxes and an Interview with Bali's Update Editor - All Subjects That Caused Readers to Write In.

The Bare Necessities of Kuta Night-Life
Our article on community protests to Kuta strippers [The Bare Necessities of Kuta Night-Life] bringing their show onto public streets prompted several readers to write:
- Danlee Mitchell wrote:
"If tourists want discos, let them have discos. But I would ban any such professional, demonstrative dancing by local women, as it degrades the tradition, ideals and people of Bali. Bali is the last "heaven on earth" locations on this planet, and should remain so."
- Maxine Barron of Australia had this to say:
"I come to Bali 3-4 times a year with friends and family. I love the night life, but I too am offended at the stripper looking girls in Kuta, especially outside Sky Garden. Last time I was looking forward to eating at Sky Garden, but when we arrived we quickly kept walking. I was disgusted, and did not want to go there."
- Repesse commented :
"I may sound like an 'old fart' as the expression goes, but having recently witnessed night life in that area, I have a slight problem with what I saw. A degree of prostitution never witnessed to that extent before. A degree of noise pollution which would be (and should be) outlawed in almost all 'western' countries. A degree of violence never seen before, with drunken foreign youth's verbally provoking and insulting armed police. (A newly married New Zealand boy was killed there the week I was there!) Discriminatory cover charges required from Indonesian citizens only, while 'bules' access these night spots free of charge! All of the above taking place in a spot where the lives of so many youths were brutally destroyed. It made me feel uneasy and not in equation with the notions I have held so far of Bali. Also not exactly a dignified attitude in memory of the 202 youths whose lives were destroyed on that very spot. I just hope and pray that Bali does not become the Indonesian Phuket!
Editorial: Bali Choose Tradition Before Innovation
The guest editorial by Professor Dr. Ir. Wayan Windia [Bali: Choose Tradition Before Innovation] earned applause from several quarters:
- Meredith wrote:
"So good to see someone standing for the values that drew people to Bali in the first place. The beauty and uniqueness of Bali is the reason that I don't want to go to Koh Samui or worse still Phuket. These places are tourist rackets where everyone seems to be trying to make money out of the tourists with a few theme parks, nice hotels and not much else (also with increasing desperation, which can make going there a bit stressful) To go to Bali (and not the southern beaches, which are somewhat spoiled), is to enter into a culture of great beauty, where tradition is intact. It is being a "visitor" and not just a "tourist". This is what makes me want to go back and also to want to contribute to an island that has so generously given me so much in so many ways. If the cultural integrity of Bali is supported, ultimately everyone benefits, in my belief, so good luck to those farseeing ones who are thoughtful enough to be encouraging this, in contrast to short term "practical considerations". Not all tourists are stupid, and most people are more delighted with the genuine unsolicited experiences of the tourist experience rather than a visit to a theme park could ever provide. These can be created anywhere."
- Neil Blok contributed :
"Just hold on to your tanah air ku, and never ever sell freehold land to foreigners. If they don't like it they can stuff it!"
Pak Legowo: Please Listen to the Governor
Our Editorial Calling on the Manager of Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport [Pak Legowo: Please Listen to the Governor] to listen to the advice of Bali's Governor in how the island's airport should be run evoked a number of strong reactions:
- Linda Glasson, emailing from Australia, said:
"As a frequent visitor to Bali, I wholeheartedly agree with your article. There is a distinct lack of choice of available food and what there is of dubious quality. The baggage claim area is rather sad for an international airport. As you rightly state, there are too many foreign exchange vendors. Pak Legowo needs an education in effective marketing. Cheers & keep up the great work!"
- Peter Wrycza, living in Bali, chimed in :
"Totally agree with you! Thanks for speaking up. The focus on continual commercialization at the expense of the traveler's experience is indeed symptomatic of what has been happening to Bali. Let's hope Governor Pastika can stem the tide."
Higher Admission Rates at Kertha Gosa
The article [Higher Admission Rates at Kertha Gosa] prompted a comparison:
- Greg Waite of New Zealand wrote:
"The new rates are extraordinarily cheap since parking nearby is very cheap. The complex is magnificent & the museum, although in need of professional curation skills, is worthwhile. Why didn't they make it $2.50 so they can build a restoration fund?"
Government Alcohol Import Tax Branded a Failure
Our coverage of a survey by a Jakarta think-tank critical of Indonesia's high import duties on liquor [Government Alcohol Import Tax Branded a Failure] brought a comment from an Indonesian reader.
- David Clark wrote to say:
"I just today returned from 2 days in Kuala Lumpur and cannot agree more with this study. When I saw that the supermarkets in KL have large supplies and displays of imported wine at very reasonable prices I wonder what Malaysia knows that Indonesia doesn't? Both countries have similar cultural and religious traditions. Yet Malaysians can buy a good bottle of imported wine for $10! The government should understand that people who want to abuse alcohol do not choose imported wine. And I know from friends on Bali in the tourist business that these high prices have greatly reduced the sales in restaurants at a time when the economic situation is already a challenge."
Interview with Jack Daniels
The reprint of an interview from "Now Bali" with Bali Update's Editor [Interview with Jack Daniels] brought emails from a number of friends.
- Kathy Loper of Kathy Loper Events wrote:
"Jack, I really enjoyed reading the interview. You are a fantastic person to know, someone who truly loves BALI & its wonderful people, and all it has to offer. It is my pleasure in knowing you and looking forward to working with you again in the future."
- One of Bali's respected Hoteliers, Nyoman Astawa, wrote :
"The interview with "Now Bali" featured in this week's Bali Update was an excellent update. It was encouraging, inspiring and stimulating positive spirit for Bali and its tourism industry. Job well done and please keep it up!"
- Adele Baker from Australia made our Editor blushed when she chimed in to say :
"What a gorgeous interview and if i knew how handsome you were i would have insisted we had a drink and not just chats over the phone! Congratulations and keep up your great efforts!! "
- Bali's famous novelist, Diana Darling wrote in :
"Hey Jack, you look so presidential in that picture. Interesting to read about all your accomplishments. Keep up the good work."

One Earth School Opens in Bali.
Anand Krishna Opens Bali School in Bali Dedicated to Excellence and Wisdom in a Globalizing World.

May 2, 2009, coinciding with National Education Day, saw the opening of Bali's newest educational institution One Earth School located on Jalan Mertasari IV, in the Pemgoan area of South Denpasar. Established by the Anand Krishna Foundation, the school commences operation in the 2009/2010 school year with the operation of a playgroup and kindergarten.
The inauguration of the new school was officiated over by Bali's governor, Made Mangku Pastika, who signed a cornerstone with the following inscription:
With the grace of All-Love, and in the name of the love that is unconditional and infinite, One Earth School is developing the hearts and minds of the young in order to foster willpower, wisdom and excellence in action, as a means to achieve a new world order founded on love, peace and harmony.
The school founder and well-known author and spiritual leadr, Anand Krishna, told those attending the opening ceremony that the One Earth School was established to create a new type of fully-formed individual capable of facing the challenges of globalization without losing their place in their traditional community.
Adopting a holistic approach to education, One Earth School will emphasize the culture of Indonesia and the region in equipping young people with willpower, wisdom and excellence in action.
Krishna announced that the new school would set aside 17% of its seats for economically disadvantaged children.
Governor Pastika enthusiastically welcomed the establishment of the One Earth School, hoping that the school would create new atmosphere in Bali's education system, providing a quality alternative for the education of the island's children.

Bali's Seafood Exports Increase.
Seafood Exports from Bali in 2008 Generate US$106 million.

In 2008, Bali exported 3.3 tons of frozen lobsters with a value of US$330,000, an increase of 7.10% from the 3.08 tons exported the previous year.
Lobster are just one of 27 different seafood exports produced by Bali's fishing industry which include tuna, kerapau, mahi-mahi, crabs, napoleon and bandeng. The value of all Bali seafood exports in 2008 totaled US$106.22 million covering 32.17 tons of product.
Bali is also a major producer of giant freshwater prawns (Udang Galah), with production centered in the Gianyar regency. However, most of 189.9 tons of giant freshwater prawns produced in Bali are destined for domestic consumption.

Bali Street Children Painting Exhibition.
Paintings, Calendars and Postcards Created By Bali Street Children Sales & Exhibition May 29 - June 5 at Zanzibar in Legian.

The Yayasan Kasih Peduli Anak (YKPA) is a foundation dedicated to helping Balinese growing group of "street kids" secure a future away from the dangerous and often predatory atmosphere of begging on street corners. The foundation operates shelter group homes, beach schools, reading education projects, scholarship/sponsorship programs, village interventions, medical assistance and practical skill training.
Bali Street Children Painting Exhibition
The YKPA will be holding an exhibition of paintings, postcards and calendars produced by the street kids from May 29 - June 5, 2009 at the Zanzibar on Jalan Arjuna, Legian Beach.
The grand opening of the exhibition, open to the public, takes place at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, May 29, 2009 with traditional Balinese dances performed by "the kids" at 6:30 p.m..
Drop by the Zanzibar to view the art, make a purchase to help the foundation in its work and learn more about their various projects to assist Bali's street children.
For more information on the exhibition or the work of YKPA contact its founder, Puti Etiartini, at telephone ++62 (0)81337411112 or ++62 (0)361-8037322.