School the holidays are both a curse and a blessing for expatriate parents living in Jakarta. First, not all of us can plan a long break from the daily routine and even if we can, then there are the major headaches of advance planning and actually get anywhere in a reasonable time . As always, it seems that all 27.9 million or more residents (at last count in 2010) Jabodetabek (Jakarta Metropolitan large area of ​​Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi) are hell bent on the same escapes.

Let the train take the strain ...

Bandung

Perhaps the best route to the scenic value train from Jakarta to Bandung. After leaving the floodplain, it winds through the western mountains of Java to the city which, in much quieter and less crowded times, was known as the Paris of the East. For the best views of rural life in kampungs and fantastic views as the gullies are crossed, reserve seats on the right and going, of course, on the left at the back.

Once in the city choked, having had the foresight to pre-book hotel reservations, you may want to consider hiring a car and driver for the day and head for the hills . Gunung Tangkuban Perahu (meaning upturned boat), about 25 kilometers north of Bandung, is the only volcano in Java reached all the way to the rim drive. First time visitors to a volcano, as your children will be properly impressed, and your wallet will also be happy to receive a broadcast on the souvenir stands.

southwest of Bandung Gunung Ratuha with a lake Kawah Putih which, as its name suggests, is white - or sometimes turquoise. The lake itself is easily accessible by car. Having been there and seen that continue from Ciwidey where you can recall back home 'cool evenings. Note:. If you decide to spend the night in one of many hotels, it may be advisable to wear socks in bed

About two hours from Bandung are the springs Hot Cimanggu with sulphurous water pools constantly replenished. Once you have learned how a lobster might feel it is only 30 minutes drive through the tea plantations of the lake (or Situ) Patengan where you can rent a boat and admire the green carpet of algae covering the area.

Some 50km south of Bandung Garut, a former Dutch mountain resort with a Sundanese atmosphere. Although predominantly Muslim, there are Hindu temples to search, a reminder that West Java has a rich history. energetic families can display on hikes, but perhaps the most interesting activity for younger families are factories that make dodol, sweet sweet made of sticky rice flour and sugar with various flavors, such as - er - durian. Cooked in huge woks over open fires and continuously stirred for a long time with what appears to be rowing boat, it is a fascinating house labor industry.

Cirebon

Another city easily accessible by train and explore for a day or two is Cirebon on the north coast of Java. The train journey itself is a bit boring because it never leaves the flat coastal plain. Cirebon is a combination of two words, "will," meaning water and "Rebon" an indication that this important seaport is famous for its salted fish, fresh shrimp and Petis and terasi (shrimp pasta used as spices). It can be incredibly hot, but Keraton Kasepuhan, the palace of the Sultan of origin is of great interest, especially for collection trucks, as well as the nearby Keraton Kanornan dating back to 1527. Also look for batik workshops ; as in Yogyakarta and Surakarta, batik originally made in Cirebon required the royal seal of approval and distinctive patterns.

Malang

Some may feel that travel overnight by train, which leaves Gajayana Gambir station at 5:30 is not much fun. You can fly, but then you have the additional hassle of all that implies, and you might still have to wend your way to Surabaya.

But if you think of registered hotel expenses and you'll have a full day ahead to explore this historic city - it was founded in the 8th century when it was the seat of government of Kanjuruhan and ancient kingdoms Singhasari. He also began to make sense, if you decide to take a "traditional High Tea" at one of the best in the city center of the world of hotels, the single Tugu (www.tuguhotels.com/malang~~number = plural).

city officially became part of the totality of Javanese Mataram kingdom in the 17th century when the Dutch were the first here. Those who dig history can explore several archaeological sites, including the Buddhist relics of the Majapahit era earlier.

Camping it up.

Camping at Taman Mekarsari

for those who prefer lower for holiday earth and the succession Mekarsari Fruit has a campground. Your children can join the Youth Farmer Club and learn to spread and prune while feeling the fresh air. Sleeping in a tent also has advantages in terms of development in nature, especially if it rains and you stay dry, smiling inwardly.

Similar euphoria can be discovered at the Botanical Garden Cibodas, "gateway" to the -Pangrango Gede National Park. Once booked, and a chosen place to erect tents, porters can be hired to help you set up the tents and surcharge, serve as watchmen and do some shopping, even for beers.

outside pretty relaxed activity of shopping for orchids in the next town, or watch them grow in the botanical gardens well furnished a fairly reasonable 3 km hike can be done in the park a few drops impressive water

to go further, to the top, requires a permit. For more details, including volcanoes are suitable for families to climb, visit the Web site of Gunung Bagging (http://gunungbagging.com).

With the school holidays almost here, I would travel happy "all players or, as will likely happen with my tribe, stay home happy.

Terry Collins co-author of Culture Shock! Jakarta (pub. Marshall Cavendish) and solely responsible for the blog Jakartass.net.

Photos courtesy of Bruce Carpenter

endangered species like, magical encounters with Indonesian traditional culture pure and unadulterated became increasingly rare events in the 21st century. While the outlook for long-term survival are bleak, miraculous surprises can come when least expected.

Arriving under cover of dusk, the reality of a new national border evil comfortable set up between the Indonesian and Timor East Timor came at dawn when the harbor master sent a stern warning to move our ship of 0 meters to the west that we were rooted in "foreign" waters.

My apprehensions of a sad turn of Belu, the bastions of people Tetum, one of the most incredible traditional crops were only grown by the cold reception of local Indonesian authorities who looked at our papers with suspicion apparently unsure how to react to the first luxury boat trip to the land of tourists Atapupu, gloomy harbor surrounded by high fences and barbed wire remains of a troubled separate ways.

As we headed into the hills above Atambua, a traditional village and seat of local government, proud hills, thatched roofs and colorful costumes amazed me. Encouraged, I began to entertain the thought that the strict ban on outside had unwittingly created a time warp of sorts that had preserved culture.

My hopes rose only we found ourselves in a rocky peak of the fortified village of Tuaninu. Stopping before a stone gate, we were greeted by a delegation of former proud wrapped in ikat rags and wearing old swords with handles shaped parrots. Tattooed, brown and wrinkled they exposed betel stained teeth as they sang the old greeting before allowing entry.

Suddenly, without warning two rows of about 30 girls between 8 and 14 let out a war cry as they beat their hourglass-shaped drums tifa furiously and walked towards us. Their youth and enthusiasm combined with powerful rhythms were as overwhelming as their colorful costumes that included Hairstyles soaked with silver coins dating as far back as the 17 ^e century.

Photos courtesy of Bruce Carpenter

for the next three hours we were delighted by other dances reflecting the ancient history and the people resort Belu that straddle both sides of an invisible border for. direct descendants of the ancient Austronesians, centuries contact with the outside world that their coveted sandalwood and "yellow gold" would lead many influences and the influx of dollars into money. Despite this, they would maintain their core beliefs in ancestors who are still supposed to visit the sacred house in the village during ceremonies. After sharing their world older women, many with tattooed hands gave us the 'kiss' traditional rubbing their noses against ours. Tears flowed as we returned to the coast.

Famous for their textiles and fine carvings continued survival of Belu ways is still uncertain that the region is developing rapidly and the old ways evaporate. A good example occurred on Sermata in 09, a very isolated island in Maluku Southeast. Two years prior to our passengers were pictures of people. Surprisingly, and despite the fact that there was no cell phone coverage on the island, foreigners were besieged by people wanting to take photos of visitors on their mobile phones. We can not prevent the inevitable, but so too preserving memory and instilling local people with pride in traditional culture can prevent the descent of every third person world with a blank generic species dressed in dirty, ripped shorts and t-shirts. advancing material is of great importance, but without culture, art and identity, it leaves a shell of well-fed human existence. It takes more to feed the soul and the body.

Jakarta is sorely lacking in opportunities for an enjoyable day out of town. Traffic, not to mention the crowd during a visit to Bandung, Bogor and Puncak enough to put many trippers off while the attractions of factory outlets, track down that perfect brownies or hot springs fade quickly for people who want to see and understand more of the country.

Fortunately for the day Tripper Jakarta, Banten Lama is far from being one, Äòmust see AO for any visitor. Most have never heard of the place and many who have grown after the release clearly marked along the Jakarta Merak aÌ jalan tol have no idea what's there.

There is a popular destination for Muslim pilgrims attracted by the famous mosque on Sunday is especially busy as religious holidays, but most of the time, especially early in the morning, the place remains a quiet place, without pretention.

There was once a thriving port Banten was the heart of the Southeast Asian trade. Spices attracted Chinese traders, India, Persia and ultimately Europe by turning the port into a 17th century Singapore.

Today, little remains of this peak. Even the sea, which was full of all kinds of ships, declined. Instead, what remains are only hints of the glory that was once Banten.
To the north of the tol, the narrow road is typical Java. Potholed, too narrow for traffic and filled with becaks and angkots while motorcyclists weave their path with impunity between the moving obstacles.

with mini-marts and small shop houses that supply the construction industry there is little to suggest that proposes Banten. Until you reach the Palace Kaibon. Just south of a stream, Cibanten by a railway bridge, the Palace isn, AOT much to look at; just a pile of rocks that provide an outline of what must have once been an impressive home for Ratu Asiah, the mother of Sultan Syaifuddin before the Dutch leveled in 1832.

They do, AOT get many foreign visitors and as you progress you will undoubtedly receive many looks of curious residents.

a fee must be paid to enter the historic district itself, a man will unfold lazily from his plastic chair by the side of the road, peer into your car and a voice creaked a thousand cigarettes, will tell you how much you need. Don, AOT wait for a brochure or a smile, hand over your money, he, Äôll take with barely a smile before returning to her plastic chair and fag side
The first thing you will encounter the Palais Surosowan. a once powerful case that was razed by the Dutch who is angry with the local Sultan. As Kaibon the groundworks remain, the observer can do on the stone steps which would have led to a pool of all kinds, but That, AOS about it.

There is little in the way of shelter and as the sun rises, it's getting hot. Some goats and chickens will graze in and around the Palace.

The alum alum is close, just after a small museum that may or may not be open. Cars are not allowed near the open area, but walking is the best option anyway. market stalls down the narrow street selling all kinds of souvenirs Islamic, most venerating the Wali Songo, the nine saints who are said to have contributed to Islam settle on the island of Java.

The mosque here, Masjid Agung, is several hundred years old and widely worshiped among the faithful; Sundays become very busy with full of faithful angkots arrive every few minutes to fill the coffers of the local community. Typically Bantenese with its roof on many levels, it is possible to mount the mosque minaret, OSA, a white obelisk-shaped tower said to have been designed by a Chinese Muslim. Looking down on the alum alum and palate can afford some idea of ​​the magnitude of the power Banten, AOS much crude market stalls with their blue sheet tend to wither the landscape.

The cemetery contains the graves of some of the Sultans who ruled a Banten which also covered part of the southern tip of Sumatra where the pepper has greatly contributed to their wealth.

a little further, beyond the concrete monstrosities hammers home to famous Bird Nest Soup AOS delicacy, there are other relics of the past. Driving is possible, but a short walk is a pretty nice option when the sweltering heat must be taken into account.

Speelwijk Fort was built by the Dutch to protect their investments in the region. As Kaibon Surosowan palace and it looks like someone has shaved off the top half of the fort. The walls are thick and strong, but there is evidence of a large renovation.
Along the eastern wall of the castle are some ruined tombs, some of which may have been high enough in the day, which testify to the hardy souls who never did at home in the tropics.

on the other side of a small stream is a historical Chinese klenteng used to clean end to the trip. In a few short hours a visitor can explore a palace Bantenese a mosque with a tower designed by a Chinese convert, a fort built by the Dutch before finally the Chinese temple.

Indonesia, SOA and rich multi spent grown wrapped in a small package only 0 minutes drive from Jakarta. To update should not be just a trudge around a mall!

My home village of Batur can be spectacularly beautiful, but Ubud is the place where tourists choose to linger longer there. When asked by my aunts and uncles why this is so, I break my head for answers.

Most often, I think the charm of healing of Ubud. The name itself comes from the word Obad, which means "medicine." Legend has it that Rsi Markandeya, who led the first waves of migration from the Dieng Plateau Java circa 10th century, discovered the healing power of the Wos River at the junction known as Campuhan. That's why he led the settlement of the crest Wos River, north of Ubud today. Even my father finally installed here, and chose to take his last breath of fresh air near his favorite refuge in the river.

The observation of the sculpture which is the mascot of Ubud, I find a simple answer to the figure that stands proudly at the intersection Ubud, Gianyar, Tegalalang and Pejeng, about half a kilometer east from Ubud market. Baring his chest to Ubud, it looks and runs his bow and arrow Gianyar. Archer remember the charming prince Arjuna, the lover legendary Mahabharata.

Arjuna, the third-born of five Pandawa brothers, was not the most beautiful. His younger brother was Nakula. He was not the strongest warrior or brave - Bima who was his elder brother. He was not the smartest, nor the wisest of all, for these virtues were attributed to Sahadewa, the youngest, and Dharmawangsa, the eldest, respectively. What special to him? He was the most charming. Most loved. Most humans.

Despite being the spiritual son of Indra, god of rain and war, Arjuna was not part of avid battle. He stammered Kurusetra the battlefield. Krishna, family counselor, sang to him. The song of the sage Bhagavan, known to many as the Bhagavad-Gita, became a sacred chapter of the Mahabharata as it contains a pearl of wisdom for man: Life is for Karma or action; the time to do it. We must carry out his duties, his Dharma.

Why this fatal weakness was asked to lead the greatest battle of all Indian epics? Because it gave people hope. So the brave soldiers their heart, as he had to.
Arjuna draws the popular imagination as a man so charming, there were many women and none reprimanded for it. Among his wives and lovers were goddesses, princesses, demons and ogres. It spawned many children, and they all got along well, so patient and charming was the man. When the war came, they fought alongside the other also.

It seems that the new large and broad wives, namely oversized bus, figuratively are beginning to tread on toes more, more established fans of Ubud. The problem does not seem to be one of the spatial planning and time management, something the legendary Arjuna managed well enough in his many quests through the geographical dispersion of his many wives. Ubud today, however, has a finite area in which to keep and maintain concubines and offspring. Perhaps there is a limit to the number of Ubud lovers can take, after all ... if Ubud is to retain its charm.

If I had to ask, which was Stamford Raffles, you would most likely answer: the founder of Singapore. In fact, I have asked this question several times outside the mentioned answer, I also got answers such as: the founder of the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, and the guy who concocted the Singapore Sling! Obviously not everyone is equally interested or knowledgeable about history. . Anyway, at least the answers were related to Singapore

Raffles certainly put his stamp on Singapore, but interestingly, he visited the place three times for nine days in January and February 1819 , about four weeks from May to June of the same year, and for eight months from October 1822 to June 1823. the true foundation, which is the hard day to day work of planning and construction, consulting and deciding, was done by the first two UK residents: Farquhar (1819-1823) and Crawford (1823-6). Farquhar has worked with Malaysian leaders to ensure the survival and growth of the British colony on the island of Singapore, while John Crawfurd, another Scot, in fact British Singapore, by signing the Anglo-Malaysian treaty of August 1824 by which the Sultan Hussein and Temenggong (Malay title of nobility usually given to the head of public security) Abdul-Rahman sold the island to the British. Farquhar and Crawfurd slipped into oblivion, while Raffles remained in the spotlight. Most of us, of course as a Singapore Sling.

But in this article I would like to draw your attention to another Raffles, which is, Raffles Lieutenant Governor of Java, a position he held from September 1811 to March 1816, and Raffles author magnificent opus Java in history , published in 1817.

of both a government and a socio-anthropological point of view, it was a very successful administrator. It increased sales by eight by eliminating restrictions on trade and transport, while reducing port charges. And it stimulated greater local participation by removing barriers imposed on relations with the Javanese by the Dutch bureaucracy. In stark contrast to the Dutch approach, his administration is, in his words, to be "not only without fear, but without reproach."

He was a man of vision. He abhorred the attitudes and opinions posted by the colonial Dutch colonialism, are the Dutch leaders in the Dutch East Indies. Raffles, in his History of Java, the introduction begins by stating that ... severe strictures passed as part of this work, on the Dutch administration in Java, ... can, careful restriction fault in the words used, appear to extend to the nation and the typically Dutch character ... He then explicitly says that these observations are intended exclusively to be applied to the colonial government agents and. The orders of the Dutch government in the Netherlands to Batavia authorities, as far as my information continues, breathe a spirit of liberality and goodwill; and I have reason to believe that tyranny and rapacity of its colonial officers, created no less indignation in the Netherlands than in other European countries .

This is the opening paragraph, and in hundreds of subsequent pages, Raffles not severely criticize indeed, and disagree with the government and the Dutch colonial officers. It also shows a great affinity and admiration for the Javanese-the "Javanese" as he refers to them-their behavior, conduct and moral character. They are quick and courteous and even friendly shyness; they have a great sense of propriety and are never rude or brutal.

The comments were, however, no shortage of critics that such was justified. Those of a higher rank, those employed about the court or the administration or the pleasure of luxury of those collected in the capital or engaged in public service, often debauched and corrupt, with many of the vices of civilization without its refinement and ignorance and shortcomings of a coarse state without its simplicity. People in the neighborhood of Batavia are the worst on the island, and the long intercourse with strangers was almost as fatal to the moral of the lower part of Bantam . He clearly blames foreign influence for this behavior. ... but they are removed from the European influence and to foreign reports, the better manners and are happier people . (The history of Java, p. 247/248)

I am convinced that Raffles was also liked by the Javanese, too. How could it otherwise acquired the huge amount of data, information and local knowledge of the island, its people, its customs, lifestyles, artifacts, antiques, flora, fauna, in a period only four and a half years. Of course, much of the information compiled by History had already been collected by other scientists and experts. But in 1814, the information transmitted to him personally by local Javanese, led to the discovery of Borobudur. Local common Javanese, mind you, a village chief, perhaps, that obviously was allowed into his presence and, more importantly, felt comfortable enough to talk with him. The Dutch had had a presence in Semarang for at least 0 years, and the ruins of the temple had been there for many, but never had information about its existence was relayed to the colonial masters. And if it had, they would have been quite indifferent, focused as they were on the money.

The Plates Java Raffles history , published in 1830 in a separate volume to the second edition of the History contains many illustrations relating to Borobudur or in Boro Bodor Raffles of the lyrics. The first of them is Map of the Great Peramidal (sic) called Temple Boro Bodor in the neighborhood Kedu Java .

The Temple of Boro Bodor, plates Raffles history of Java

Remember, it was in 1814 a crumbling ruin invaded by shrubs and trees. Raffles, unable to investigate the site itself, sent H. C. Cornelius, a Dutch engineer, who with 0 aids in two months cleared of vegetation and earth to reveal the monument. The plan is probably part of Cornelius compared to Raffles and contains details such as measurements, the number of steps leading to terraces, the number of stupas and others.

Not only is the Borobudur covered in detail in Plates history , almost every aspect of life on Java is discussed in detail: agricultural tools, equipment such that a loom weaving and spinning wheel, and tools for batik printing, carpenters tools, weapons and Javanese kris, the old forms of the Javanese alphabet, musical instruments, signs representing pasar or market days, and prints, and Prambanan temples on the Dieng Plateau, inscriptions on stone reproductions in Kevali (near Cirebon) and a stone called Batu Tulis. Of exceptional quality are the aquatint engravings by William Daniell Javanese costume. These include a Javanese of the lower class, a Javanese Chief ordinary dress, a Javanese war dress and court dress, a Madurese rank of mantri , and finally a Papua boy, Dick who came into the Raffles service in Bali and was brought to England by him in 1816 a complete Java folding map of the plates .

The book was in its time not a great commercial success, the 1,500 copies printed for the second edition, only 500 were sold. While at the time undervalued nowadays, it is extremely useful and valuable as a window on Java 0 years ago. It has integrated in its fullness has never been equaled

References :.
• The Java history, Stamford Raffles, Oxford University Press, 1988
• Raffles revisited: analysis and Revaluation of Sir Stamford Raffles ( 1781-1826) by Ernest CT Chew, Associate Professor of history, national University of Singapore
• Wikipedia

Meet Albert Kok. Panorama CEO Destination Management and advocate for change and growth.

What is the Panorama group?

The Panorama Group, or more commonly known as Panorama Tours, was established by Mr. Adhi Tirtawisata forty years ago in a small room with the staff and resources limited. Today, it is a collaboration of companies focused on tourism, transportation and hospitality. We are dedicated to innovation, excellent service and sustainable value to the community and the environments in which we operate. There are four main areas of activity are: Panorama Hotel Management, Transport, which includes buses and taxis as White Horse White Horse Premium cabin. The executive Shuttles Day Trans offer something better than public transport, reducing the carbon footprint of personal transportation for discerning commuters and travelers. The third area is the destination management, which is the area where I work. And the last zone is the outbound destination for Indonesian citizens traveling outside the country, which is a huge growth market.

What is the destination management involve?

We take care of everything for customers overseas, in collaboration with travel agencies in other countries. They handle international flights and we handle all aspects for tourists from the minute they arrive until they leave. It's my responsibility. We work with all major hotels, creating complete vacation packages, seminars and incentives. Our customers are mainly European, Canadian and domestic. It sounds simple, but we treat tens of thousands of people annually. Our job is to just exceed customer expectations. Without a thorough preparation and understanding of customer needs, you fail. The attention to detail is critical and everyone in the office knows my motto: Check, check, check. No one can make assumptions. If in doubt, ask. So the most important part of our work actually takes place long before the arrival.

So tell me about your background ...

I grew up in Bloemendaal near Haarlem Neth- Low. As a child, I remember hearing stories at the table on the first charter flights to Spain and things like that. My father was in tourism all his life working, so it runs in my blood. After my studies, I decided not to pursue a career as an accountant and I joined the company that my father was running. He specialized in Indonesia and that is when my love for this country really settled. From there I climbed the ladder with major travel agencies like TUI, D-reizen and Thomas Cook. I felt as I like to work in tourism, I stay. Twenty years later, I'm still here.

What led you to Indonesia in the first place?

I met my wife at a travel show. She was born in Indonesia and moved with his family to the Netherlands at the age of eleven, she has a leg in both worlds. Since we knew, we knew there would one day we could emigrate. I lived in Spain and we are contemplating going but I also like Asia, particularly Indonesia and was attractive to my wife. In 05, we took the decision to move abroad. We left our jobs, sold our house and then decided to throw in our business as well. We arrived in Bali with four suitcases and a girl of five years. People thought we were crazy or brave, but it was a good decision for us. It was actually great to sell everything we owned as it teaches us that we should not all these possessions, despite me being a gadget phenomenon. We would do it again tomorrow.

This is a great story. What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?

I love spending time with my family. Make a career in Holland hardly allowed. Now at least I go home every night unless I travel. I love photography and video editing. A documentary I did on the island of Sumba was aired on Indonesian television more than once. Without my permission or credit though, but that is OK. At the weekend, I do the cooking, grilling or smoking an octopus another mahi mahi. I love my Vespa 1961. He is a substitute for classic cars, I used to have. Horseback riding is as much fun to pay me frequent mechanical problems. And it's orange, of course!

How do you see us face the challenges of Bali faces with such rapid growth?

Everyone knows all suggestions for change. The growth is very fast now and I think the main issue is how to take control. I am in favor of growth, because it creates jobs and hope that the well-being for those who really need them. Despite good intentions, effective laws and regulations, there are still many ways in which individuals can afford things. I am also in favor of the development of other parts of Indonesia. It might take a little pressure off Bali and further improve the total visitors from Indonesia. Like Thailand for example, who developed multiple beach, city and return travel destinations. Indonesia will certainly happen, but it will take time.

Some people say that Bali is ruined by big hotels, taxis and cars, and that tourists would be happier to stay in a small traditional places and walk more. What are your thoughts?

This may be true for some, but Bali is so interesting because it meets the visitors with many different interests. I agree that infrastructure is a problem. Last week I went to Kuta Beach Walk Mall for the first time. It has excellent parking facilities, but the traffic to get there was holding me all the time. If we can not widen roads, we definitely need more parking areas and pedestrian zones. Some good results were obtained in the Legian street on this issue already

You explain something many people forget -. Do things in groups, either families or travel companions has less impact on the environment. It is economical and enjoyable.

This is true, and many of our business focuses on group tours. However, many people never choose this way of travel. Still, I'm positive that we can leave our children a better world. It is our responsibility.

Thank you, Albert. To get in touch, email albert.kok@panorama-tours.com

The History tells that when I Made Mangku Pastika was a young boy, a neighbor weighed him on his gambling debts. His grandfather, already a rich man with many possessions, went bankrupt because of the accursed habit. He saw how the fathers of his friends ignored the education and well-being of their families. These memories have made a deep impression on the boy, and go a long way to explaining why, today, Bali's governor is a strong supporter of the game of any kind.

Later, when Pastika became head of the Bali police, it all but eliminated the vice because of social problems and untold suffering that it caused. It was during his tenure as chief Pastika Papuan police that helped solve the first Bali bomb - the terrorist atrocity in Bali in October 02 - that made him widely known throughout the world. On an island whose economy is based on tourism, background Pastika as chief negotiator in the Bali bombings in 02 and 05 resisted his political career prominently.

Of humble origins, I Made Mangku Pastika was born the son of a teacher in a small village in Buleleng Regency Sanggalangit northern Bali in 1951. After the devastating eruption of Gunung Agung in 1963, struggles the family was so hard that his father decided to join the government transmigration program in Bengkulu, south Sumatra, where he accepted a job as a school principal. Since the house was barely enough to accommodate the family, the boy would sometimes sleep on one of the chairs in his father's classroom. Pastika has held many different positions - cut grass, selling ice cream and flowers, working as a handyman for a Chinese family - but his diligence paid by a high school diploma in Palembang

One day by chance. The young man with a friend who wanted to register for the Indonesian police academy. When he learned that the school registration was free, he had the idea to resume the work of law enforcement. He graduated from the Academy in 1974, from his long career as a police officer.

Pastika began to distinguish from the start. While serving in Jakarta Tanjung Priok Harbour, several Chinese smugglers driving a large cargo truck full of electrical appliances in a warehouse. Pastika, who could speak Chinese, ordered the driver to stop, thus foiling a major smuggling attempt. The knowledge and experience later, he met in the mobile police brigade in the criminal investigation unit and Indonesia agency narcotics propelled her career forward. Pastika won appointment as police chief of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) in 1999 when the province was full of refugees from East Timor. After serving in NTT, he was appointed chief of Papua Police Department. His first mission was to investigate the murder of Theys Eluay, a local spokesman respected Papuan, which resulted in the conviction and sentence of four Kopassus soldiers.

When the opportunity to request a position as chief of police in his home province of Bali, Pastika was unable to qualify for the position. At the time, he was a two-star general, and the position was open only to a single star general. However, the job requirements were changed so that a qualified general two stars. After retiring from law enforcement as a three-star general, Pastika became the first democratically elected governor of the island in 09. Previously, members of the upper castes Brahmins, Kshatriyas and Wesya had governed the province. Pastika, who does not come from a privileged background, was the first governor of the island native peasant caste Sudra.

As governor, he always tried to bridge the gap between public expectations and actual delivery of the government. While the public is becoming better informed and action-oriented, bureaucracy is stuck in their rules and regulations. He prefers not lead by decree, but by example. Not the kind of bureaucrat who goes home at 14 pm, it is at its 7h30-17 office hours. It is actually on the job one way or seven days a week, working to change the mindset of the bureaucracy, encouraging thousands of Bali officials to be more disciplined oriented public service and adopt modern practices. He is particularly keen on the development of what he called "e-government", computerize ministries.

A man of the people

Governor Pastika by Ubud Writers and Readers Festival

After five years in the powerful position of the governor, Pastika has gained a reputation as outspoken leader, a man who represents the needs and aspirations of the common man. A deeply religious man in a nation dominated by Muslims, Pastika is a big believer in harmony, solidarity and tolerance among the various inter-religious and inter-ethnic social groups. So he is involved with many of the poor that is dedicated to the eradication of poverty. He launched the grass root level programs to make housing more affordable and has repaired and upgraded 6,000 houses belonging to poor Balinese.

The governor is largely responsible for the Bali become the first province in Indonesia to have universal health care. Through effective budgeting practices, he found a way to finance the coverage of health care for residents of Bali. Before the free health care, the maternal mortality rate for 09 was 76 deaths per 100,000 births. In 2010, under the care free, this figure dropped to 51 per 100,000. Thousands of qualifying people have had cataracts removed so they can see clearly again, many for the first time.

Pastika has also proved himself a friend of the environment. The banjar 1473 traditional Balinese village were recruited to protect the environment. There have been marked improvements on the disposal of large amounts of Kuta waste brought by the tides of the sea. Several companies disposal and waste recycling began during the watch and the department stores of the governor were invited do not use plastic. Pastika has implemented programs to support organic farming and sustainable agriculture (organic garden surrounds his office in Renon). Some went as far to call it "visionary". He also set up a mass transit bus system, SABAGITA in the Denpasar / Badung crowded areas in southern Bali.

The Governor popular no-nonsense and his reelection team hopes that these achievements will be remembered by the electorate when he runs for a second five-year term in elections for governor of Bali this May. Pastika chose Bali Golkar chairman and Vice Regent Badung, I Ketut Sudikerta, to campaign with him as his running mate for the vice-governor. giant panels with candidates for governor and vice governor began to appear randomly on the island. Early polls have shown optimism that the governor is not unfounded. The ticket "Pastikerta" led to this day all the other candidates.