Edisi 18 Desember 2012 | International Bali Post

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Entertainment

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Jason Mraz in anti-trafficking concert Local artists, including a hiphop singer, also played at the event organized by the anti-trafficking media group MTV EXIT - for “End Exploitation and Trafficking” - in cooperation with U.S. and Australian government aid agencies and the antislavery organization Walk Free.

Myanmar is emerging from decades of isolation under a reformist elected government that took office last year after almost five decades of military rule. It has been one of the region’s poorest countries, and its bad human rights record made it the target of political and economic sanctions by Western nations.

But democratic reforms initiated

by President Thein Sein have led to the lifting of most sanctions, and the country is hopeful of a political and economic revival. Nobel Peace

Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, the pro-democracy opposition leader, was released from house arrest in late 2010 and won a seat in parliament last April.

Mraz called his top-billed appearance at the concert a “tremendous honor.” “I think the country is, at this time, downloading lots of new information from all around the world,” he said. “I’ve always wanted my music to be here, (for) hope and celebration, peace, love and happiness. And so I’m delighted that my music can be a part of this big download that Myanmar is experiencing right now.”

Organizers said Mraz was the first international artist to perform at an open-air, mass public concert in Myanmar. Jazz artists Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Charlie Byrd

visited the country under U.S. government sponsorship in the 1970s, when it was still called Burma, but played at much smaller venues.

Many in the crowd queued for two hours before being admitted to the concert site. Yangon native Sann Oo, 31, wearing a white T-shirt with a sketch of Mraz, said he was pleased that Mraz had come and that there would be a broadcast of the event.

“His visit can promote the image of Myanmar, because people outside have been seeing the country as an insecure place, and poor,” he said.

“Now they can see how we look like from the concert. It also opens the potential for more concerts by foreign artists.” Mraz has a history of involvement with human rights and other social causes.

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Tuesday, December 18, 2012 Obama in Newtown: ‘We can’t tolerate this anymore’ Page 6

Messi leaves Falcao and Ronaldo trailing in La Liga

Feeder route of Sarbagita designed to use subscription

Page 8

Page 4

Ahead of Christmas and New Year

Associated Press Writer

YANGON, Myanmar — American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz mixed entertainment with education to become the first world-class entertainer in decades to perform in Myanmar, with a concert to raise awareness of human trafficking. Mraz’s 2008 hit “I’m Yours” was the finale for Sunday night’s concert before a crowd of about 50,000 people at the base of the famous hilltop Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the country’s biggest city.

AP Photo/Zin Chit Aung

American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz gestures as he arrives before his concert in Yangon, Myanmar, on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012. Mraz mixed entertainment with education to become the first world-class entertainer in decades to perform in Myanmar, with a concert to raise awareness of human trafficking.

Military commander asks to be vigilant

Morgan Freeman denies making statement about school shooting Reuters

AP Photo/Vince Bucci, file

REUTERS/Mary F. Calvert

Actor Morgan Freeman attends the 35th Annual Kennedy Center Honors performance and gala at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington December 2, 2012.

LOS ANGELES - Actor Morgan Freeman said on Sunday that he did not issue a statement blaming the media for sensationalizing the Newtown School shootings that left 20 children and several adults dead.The award-winning actor added that he never made or posted the statement that became a Facebook and Internet sensation, saying it was a hoax.

His publicist Stan Rosenfield told TheWrap that the actor’s camp was trying to determine the origin of the hoax statement.“It’s because of the way the media reports it,” the phony statement read in part. “Turn on the news and see how we treat the Batman theater

shooter and the Oregon mall shooter like celebrities. Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris are household names, but do you know the name of a single ‘victim’ of Columbine?

“Disturbed people who would otherwise just off themselves in their basement see the news and want to top it by doing something worse and going out in a memorable way. Why a grade school? Why children? Because he’ll be remembered as a horrible monster instead of a sad nobody.”

The hoax statement also takes CNN to task over its use of the phrase “body count” in relation to the Newtown shootings and said the news coverage would incite more killings.

16 Pages Number 2 5th year

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

A staff of hotel finished the replica of Cathedral Church from chocolate that made to celebrate Christmas. Ahead of Christmas and New Year celebration, the Commander of the IX Udayana Military Command, Wisnu Bawa Tenaya, asked all the components ranging from military, police to community to come together and tighten the security and remain vigilant.

FOTO ANTARA/Akbar Nugroho Gumay

Bali Post

TABANAN - Ahead of Christmas and New Year celebration, the Commander of the IX Udayana Military Command, Wisnu Bawa Tenaya, asked all the components ranging from military, police to community to come together and tighten the security and remain vigilant.

“Security should be maintained together by all the components in order that Bali is safe and peaceful. Never let the threat of crime come from short cuts,” he said on Sunday (Dec 16).

The commander said there would be no too special security, but vigilance and optimization of security forces remained to be put forward. “Nothing is too special.

However, we must maintain the security of Bali maximally because Bali is a leading tourist destina-

tion,” he said.

Specifically the commander also asked the security to be tightened up at customary village by optimizing the role of pecalang or customary security officer and residents.

Thus, it was expected there would be no security problem ranging

from sacred effigy theft and the threat of terrorism could even be anticipated. He also appealed in order the Christmas and New Year celebration would not be used to get drunk by young people. “Let’s make introspection and mutually respect and help,” he said.

When asked if there were indications of terrorist threats before Christmas and New Year, the commander said so far there were not. “For the time being, there are not. Yet, Bali must be vigilant all the time. Do not be inattentive. Those who are inattentive will lose out, the loser will suffer. Therefore, please be vigilant,” reminded the commander.

Then, when asked about his prediction on the security of Bali in 2013 compared to 2012, the commander was optimistic if the security of Bali could be main-

tained. In essence, there should be preparation from the beginning and all the parties got involved on all fronts. Admittedly, there were still loopholes to undermine the security of Bali, namely through short cuts ashore or at sea. To that end, police and other relevant parties were expected to further intensify their patrols at short cuts and entrance to Bali through sea routes such as Padangbai and Gilimanuk. “Do not let the threat of crimes roam around at these short cuts,” he concluded. (kmb29)

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International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Bali News

Bali Police arrest four suspects Denpasar (Bali Post)—

Hard work of the Bali Police dedicated team as well as county police across Bali to reveal the rampant effigy theft cases in recent years is finally paid off. Four suspects respectively with the initials IWD, IN, MP and KB were arrested one after another. Other than the four perpetrators, police also seized a number of items as evidence from the hands of the perpetrators.

Haryadi, his party could seize evidences like Nokia cellular phone, yarn of perforated coin binder, crowbar, screwdriver, flashlight, pliers and hammer. “The suspects and their evidences are secured in Bali Police,” he said.

Having arrested the four suspects, it did not necessarily mean if police had successfully uncovered the entire cases.

However, there were other jobs to be completed. On that account, Chief Harry Haryadi mentioned there were still other perpetrators at large. “We are still chasing the two other perpetrators with initial KS and A. Let’s pray in order they are quickly arrested,” he pleaded.

How is the preliminary result of the interrogation against the four suspects?

Chief Harry further explained they were desperate to steal the sanctified effigies in a number of temples on request of KS and A. Both perpetrators, whose location was unknown, had met IWD. “The meeting discussed about the temple becoming their target, which ones had coins and other valuables,” he explained.

Once the agreement was made, the suspect IWD immediately took action.

The first area targeted was Karangasem.

Three temples scattered in Karangasem were burglarized by the suspect IWD and gangs. After that, they targeted the other temples potentially retaining perforated coins, gold and others. After burglarizing some temples, the loots were sold to KS and A. Apparently, those perpetrators did not only steal effigies, but also kris dagger, ring and silver in the house of a villager named Lilis. “Proceeds of the loots were divided equally. After getting money, they used it to dissipate. For example, they get drunk and bet in cockfight,” said Chief Harry to media crews.

In order to clearly reveal the cases, his party remained to make further development. Chief Harry added the conclusion was that 16 of the 22 cases of effigy theft could have been revealed. “Seeing such numerous crime scenes, it is alleged the theft was not only committed by a syndicate, but also by individual perpetrators,” he added. (kmb21)

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

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PHM Hospitality awarded ITTA 2012

Revealing sanctified effigy theft

“The four perpetrators have been declared as suspect,” said the Head of Sub Directorate III, Directorate of General Crime Detective of Bali Police, Harry Haryadi, accompanied by Spokesperson of Bali Police, Sri Harmiti, Sunday (Dec 16). He explained the four perpetrators consisting of the locals (Balinese—Ed) were still undergoing intensive interrogation.

Harry Haryadi explained the disclosure of the sanctified effigy theft was based on the number of reports to police station. Even, within the past two months, dozens of cases occurred.

Communities or pilgrims of temple in a number of areas in Bali complained if their temple was burglarized. Sanctified effigies stored in temple shrines were taken away by the perpetrators.

The rampant effigy theft made Bali Police Chief, Budi Gunawan, furious.

Moreover, many people asked and urged police to immediately reveal the cases of effigy theft. As a response, Bali Police Chief appointed a team. Even, the number one man in the Bali Police gave a 20-days deadline to his men.

However, ahead of the deadline the dedicated team managed to uncover the cases. After conducting an investigation and pursuit, a perpetrator (IWD—Ed) could be arrested at his home at Kises hamlet, Sidemen, Karangasem, Tuesday (Dec 11). “The suspect IWD was arrested at his home. He admitted to have burglarized a number of temples,” he said.

Confession of the suspect IWD made the investigator of the Directorate of General Crime Detective of Bali Police to make further examination. From confession of IWD, he was not committing the theft alone. There were other friends respectively with the initial IN, MP and KB. “We immediately take action based on confession of the suspect IWD. Then, a number of officers are ordered to spread,” he said.

During the three-day hunting, the three suspects could eventually be arrested around Badung region on Friday (Dec 14). They were arrested without resistance. Of the four suspects, said Harry

Activities

International

IBP/File

The suspects of the theft of effigies from temples throughout Bali are arrested by the police

Residents of Tanah Ampo reject land acquisition for port parking Amlapura (Bali Post)—

Residents of Tanah Ampo, Ulakan village, Manggis, stated to refuse their farmland acquisition for parking area expansion of the local cruise ship harbor. They refused it because they worried if their village land would run out and they would get displaced because there was no more land for settlement.

Rejection of the residents was justified by Chief of Tanah Ampo customary village, I Gede Suyadnya, Saturday (Dec 15). Suyadnya said his party had approached and given the understanding to them for three times through a village meeting.

“We’ve held a meeting for three times where regency government is going to make parking space in the paddy field in front of the cruise ship harbor. However, our residents refused to release the village land, fearing the village land will run out and they will get displaced and marginalized from their home village,” he said.

Ultimately, the residents held on their decision that they refused to release their fertile and beautiful paddy fields located among the hill ranges for the expansion of parking space.

Suyadnya said that rejection of residents was also based on consideration in which up to these days the cruise ship quay had not been completed and did not work. Formerly, it was tested where several cruise ships had dropped by, although anchoring at sea of Manggis. From the sea, the

tourists mostly consisting of the elderly were transferred to lifeboat and long enough rocking on lifeboat before reaching the quay.

Later on, there were even absolutely no cruise ships willing to anchor at sea of Tanah Ampo and no tourists came to Tanah Ampo. Instead, the cruise ships preferred to berth at Benoa Harbor because they considered it more secure.

He added that local residents wanted to release the paddy fields for the expansion of parking space of the cruise ship quay, where Karangasem Regency was willing to share 70 percent of the parking revenue with local village, while the 30 percent was for the government. However, residents through their representatives conveying their aspirations insisted on not releasing the farmland to be converted into parking space. “Indeed, our residents kept silent in the meeting. Their aspiration has been conveyed through several representatives. When asking their confirmation whether they agreed if their rice field was released for the parking space, all residents stated to disagree or refuse,” he said.

Suyadnya who was just elected the chief of customary village last year said that residents of Tanah Ampo village came to 160 active families.

Meanwhile, the remaining residents lived in the Diaspora. He added the customary village spread across 40 hectares, where the land partly belonged to village property. (03)

 Founder : K.Nadha,  General Manager :Palgunadi Chief Editor: Diah Dewi Juniarti  Editors: Gugiek Savindra,Alit Susrini, Alit Sumertha, Daniel Fajry, Mawa, Sri Hartini, Suana, Sueca, Sugiartha, Yudi Winanto Denpasar: Dira Arsana, Giriana Saputra, Subrata, Sumatika, Asmara Putra. Bangli: Pujawan, Buleleng: Adnyana, Gianyar: Agung Dharmada, Karangasem: Budana, Klungkung: Bali Putra Ariawan. Jakarta: Nikson, Hardianto, Ade Irawan. NTB: Agus Talino, Izzul Khairi, Raka Akriyani. Surabaya: Bambang Wilianto.  Development: Alit Purnata, Mas Ruscitadewi.  Office: Jalan Kepundung 67 A Denpasar 80232. Telephone (0361)225764, Facsimile: 227418, P.O.Box: 3010 Denpasar 80001. Bali Post Jakarta, Advertizing: Jl.Palmerah Barat 21F. Telp 021-5357602, Facsimile: 021-5357605 Jakarta Pusat. NTB: Jalam Bangau No. 15 Cakranegara Telp. (0370) 639543, Facsimile: (0370) 628257. Publisher: PT Bali Post

IBP

JAKARTA - Toward end of year 2012, PHM Hospitality completed this year with one award achievement as Indonesia Leading Hotel Chain for for 2012/2013.

The awards which been held by Indonesia Trav el Tourism Award (ITTA) Foundation are designed to appreciate the outstanding Indonesian hotels, resorts, villas, serviced apartments, travel agents, tour operators, amusement parks, airlines, airports, tourism boards, and destinations, who fulfill the quality and hospitality experience expectation as well as being models for the emerging travel industry. The recipients of the awards should prove as leading brands in the industry and has demonstrated exemplary service towards the customers.

The Judging process took 4 steps which consist of first

screening by ITTA Foundation, online voting (25 %), assessment from appointed education institute (25 %) as well as Qualitative & Quantitative judging by Board of Advisor (50%).

The Awards organizer received over 250 nominees to celebrate 42 category of award from Indonesia’s Travel / Tourism Industry.

The ITTA event is considered as one of the prestigious events in Indonesia tourism as attended by senior executives, decision makers from major travel companies, operators and destinations.

Mr. Kristian Kuntadi, Managing Director of PHM Hospitality says, “We are de-

lighted to receive the award as recognition of our hard work in delivering innovative and high quality product and service with maximum values for hotel and resorts in Indonesia. We do look forward continuing to build PHM Hospitality as the Preferred Indonesian Hospitality Management Company.”

PHM Hospitality has succeeded in managing the first two “happening” hotel brands, THE HAVEN Bali-Seminyak & THE 1O1 Bali-Legian, and just launching newly born brand, THE BnB, “The New Evolution of Urban Budget Hotel” opening soon at Kelapa Gading, Jakarta.

Calendar Event for December 12 through December 27, 2012 12 Des B uda Keliwon Ugu Pura Dalem Tarukan Banjar Pulasari Desa Peninjoan Tembuku - Bangli Pura Pasek Gelgel Boading Kabakaba Tabanan Pura Pemayun Banyuning T e n gah - Buleleng Pura Desa Kayangan Tiga Desa Bubunan Seririt - Buleleng Pura Agung Gunung Raung Banjar Taro Kaja Taro - Tegalalang Merajan Pasek Dangka Bungbungan 22 Des H ari Tumpek Wayang Pura Majapahit Jembrana Odalan Betara ratu Gede Celuk Sukawati Odalan Betara Ratu Wedyadari Camenggaon Sukawati Pura Panti Gelgel Pengembungan Sesetan Denpasar Betara Ratu Alit dan Ratu Lingsir Singakerta Ubud Pura Pedarmaan Dalem Sukawati B esakih Pura Pedarmaan Mengwi Besakih Pura Pedarmaan Kaba-kaba Besakih Pura Pedarmaan dalem Bakas Besakih Pura Dadia Agung Pasek Gelgel

Pegatepan Gelgel Klungkung Pura Pemrajan Agung Sulang Kec Dawan Klungkung Merajan Pasek Bendesa Kori Agung Pengatepan Pura Pedarmaan Dinasti dalem sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan P u r a Besakih (Dalem Klungkung) Pura Penataran Giri Purwa dan Pesraman Dusun Kuto Rejo Kendal Rejo Tegal Delimo Banyuangi 26 Des Buda Wage Kelawu Pura Penataran Agung Teluk Padang Karangasem Pura Melanting D esa Camenggaon Sukawati Pura Penataran Ped Nusa Penida Pura Pasek Gelgel Pangembungan Bongkase Abiansemal Pura Pasek Bendesa Reyang Gede Penebel Tabanan Pura Pasek Gelgel Br. Jawa Tengah Buleleng Pura Gaduhan Jagat Desa Singakerta Ubud Pura Masceti Tegeh Mancawarna Sanding Tampaksiring Pura Penataran Batu Lepang Kamasan Klungkung Pura Paibon Pasek Gelgel Gobleg Desa Kedonganan Kuta

Pura Goa Besakih Pura Basukian Besakih Penataran Agung Besakih Merajan Pasek Gelgel Pejeng Merajan Pasek Gelgel Songan Merajan Pasek Prateka Pekandelan Sidemen Merajan Pasek Prateka Taman Sari Sukasada Pura dadia Pasek Gelgel Sidemen Karangasem Merajan Pasek Gelgel Tampuagan, Tembuku, Bangli 27 Des Purnama Kepitu Pr. Benua Besakih.

Pura Dalem Desa Camenggaon - Sukawati Pura Suranadhi Lombok Pura Narmada Lombok Pura Segara Ampenan Lombok Mr Agung Dewa Agung Klungkung Ulah Sidemen Pura Gunungrene S i d e m e n Karangasem.

Merajan Pasek Gelgel Ababi Mr. Pasek gelgel Tista Pura Gunung Gunung - Tianyar Kubu - Karangasem Pura Pingit Klenting sari Banjar Sumberkelompok - Gerokgak Singaraja Pura Payogan Agung Kutai Kartanegara

Balinese Temple Ceremony Every Temple and Shrine has a special date for it annual Ceremony, or “ Odalan “, every 210 days according to Balinese calendar, including the smaller ancestral shrine which each family possesses. Because of this practically every few days a ceremony of festival of some kind takes place in some Village in Bali. There are also times when the entire island celebrated the same Holiday, such as at Galungan, Kuningan, Nyepi day, Saraswati day, Tumpek Landep day, Pagerwesi day, Tumpek Wayang day etc.

The dedication or inauguration day of a Temple is considered its birth day and celebration always takes place on the same day if the wuku or 210 day calendar is used. When new moon is used then the celebration always happens on new moon or full moon. The day of course can differ the religious celebration of a temple lasts at least one full day with some temple celebrating for three days while the celebration of Besakih temple, the Mother Temple, is never less than 7 days and most of the time it lasts for 11 days, depending on the importance of the occasion.

The celebration is very colorful. The shrine are dressed with pieces of cloths and sometimes with brocade, sailings, decorations of carved wood and sometimes painted with gold and Chinese coins, very beautifully arranged, are hung in the four corners of the shrine. In front of shrine are placed red, white or black umbrellas depending which Gods are worshipped in the shrines.

In front of important shrine one sees, besides these umbrellas soars, tridents and other weapons, the “umbulumbul”, long flags, all these are prerogatives or attributes of Holiness. In front of the Temple gate put up “Penjor”, long bamboo poles, decorated beautifully ornaments of young coconut leaves, rice and other products of the land.

Most beautiful to see are the girls in their colorful attire, carrying offerings, arrangements of all kinds fruits and colored cakes, to the Temple. Every visitor admires the grace with which the carry their load on their heads.

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Technology

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

International

Apple’s iPhone 5 starts strong in China but shares pressured Reuters

Apple Inc said it sold more than 2 million of its new iPhone 5 in China during the three days after its launch there on Friday, marking China’s best-selling iPhone rollout ever. But the highly anticipated release in China, Apple’s second-biggest market, has not eased worries about stiffer competition in smartphones that are driving a slide in the share price of the world’s most valuable technology company.

Apple shares fell 3.8 percent on Friday to $509.79 after the iPhone 5’s China debut, while Citi Research downgraded Apple’s stock late on Sunday to “neutral” from “buy” and lowered Apple’s price target to $575 from $675, citing diminishing hype around the iPhone 5 and improving competition in smartphones.

Apple’s latest iPhone made its global debut with a launch in the United States and 30 other countries in September, selling more than 5 million in its first three days on the market.

“Customer response to iPhone 5 in China has been incredible, setting a new record with the best first weekend sales ever in China,” Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said in a statement.

This is the first time Apple has announced China sales numbers for the iPhone. Analysts say

Apple’s longer-term outlook in the China market, however, may hinge on expanding its partners in that country to include China Mobile Ltd, the country’s top telecoms carrier.

REUTERS/Stringer

An employee cleans an advertisement plate at an Apple dealership on the eve of iPhone 5’s release, in Wuhan, Hubei province December 13, 2012.

Japanese women enamored of “Mr Right” love game apps Reuters

TOKYO - After being saved from kidnapping, you discover you’re the daughter of the prime minister and your life is in imminent danger. You are introduced to a handful of handsome bodyguards, and must decide who you want to protect you 24 hours a day.

That’s the scenario for one of several role-playing “love games” currently popular in Japan, allowing women to safely spend time with their choice of Mr. Right without actually dealing with a live person even as marriage rates in Japan fall.

“In the game, you’re the lone woman, and the attention of all the guys is on you,” said “han-kura,” a 37-year-old office worker who uses that alias on a blog dedicated to these games.

The role-playing games are based on characters typical of Japanese manga comics, with all the men slender and elegant. The player becomes the heroine and chooses an ideal mate from several

“knight in shining armor” characters, developing a relationship through the choices they make in the storyline.

The games, which can be played on smart phones, are especially popular with working single women in their 30s who feel they don’t have the time or energy for a real relationship due to their demanding work schedule, said Kana Shimada, a novelist who writes about modern women and relationships.

“It may be virtual, but if it’s ‘a boyfriend from a game,’ then you can enjoy it whenever you want,” said Shimada. “The games that make you feel the ups and downs of a real relationship have all the elements to get women hooked.”

The video game industry has always had a strong male following, but it seems to have found a way to finally capitalize on female users. The sector based on such love simulation games grew by 30.4% with 14.6 billion yen ($177.3 million) in sales in 2011, according to Yano Research Institute.

Twitter offered Instagram $525 million deal: report Reuters

SAN FRANCISCO - Weeks before he accepted a $1 billion offer from Facebook Inc, Instagram CEO Kevin Systrom had verbally agreed to sell his photosharing company to Twitter Inc for $525 million in March - but then called off the deal, according to a New York Times report citing unnamed sources.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg ultimately acquired Instagram after pushing through a cash-and-stock deal just weeks before Facebook’s May initial public offering. The transaction closed in September at a $715 million valuation, reflecting Facebook’s stock drop since the offering.

During negotiations with Instagram, Twitter executives had handed Systrom a term sheet outlining the details of the proposed deal, the Times reported, but Systrom later told California

state regulators under oath that his company had not received any “formal offers or term sheets” from potential buyers aside from Facebook.

Relations between Twitter, Instagram and Facebook have soured since Facebook successfully swooped for the photo service. Earlier this month Instagram shut off a functionality that allowed Twitter to display Instagram pictures, while Twitter introduced its own photo colorfilters to compete with Instagram.

A spokeswoman for Facebook declined comment. Twitter could not be immediately reached for comment.

REUTERS/Luke MacGregor

Instagram co-founder and CEO Kevin Systrom, speaks during a Q&A session at LeWeb 2012 in London June 19, 2012.

Bali News

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

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Illegal money changer becomes classic problem over 10 years Bali Post

DENPASAR - Money laundering crimes recently kept increasing so that it consequently worried various parties, including the banking sector. The ‘field’ considered reasonably susceptible is used by perpetrators to launch their action such as foreign exchange trading that has been pretty much spread in the community.

IBP/Net

Tourists pass a money changer vendor in Kuta, Bali Island. The data of the Association of Foreign Exchange Traders (APVA), the number of illegal money changer in Bali reached approximately 200 units, where most of which were in tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua and Sanur, Denpasar.

Unfortunately, it has not been found any solutions for the rampant illegal money changers lasting over 10 years. Even, from the data of the Association of Foreign Exchange Traders (APVA), the number of illegal money changer in Bali reached approximately 200 units, where most of which were in tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua and Sanur, Denpasar. “We worry about the actions committed by those illegal money changers will have an impact on the official and authorized money changer. By all means, their fraudulent action will harm the image of Bali tourism. Necessarily, the tourism businesspeople are not only required to provide security and comfort for tourists coming to Bali, but also honesty,” said the

former Head of the APVA Bali for the tenure of 2008-2012, Made Sudarsa.

Moreover, he said, from the survey, money changer belonged to top three of the ten problems or obstacles that could tarnish Bali aside from the matter of waste, congestion and so on. “Without being resolved, the ten problems will give bad image to Bali tourism. So far, the Bali tourism always increases in terms of quantity but not quality,” he said.

He indeed acknowledged that perpetrators of illegal money changer businesses had been frequently disciplined, but such an effort had not been optimal. “If any of our authorized members commit a fraud and it has been proved, we definitely recommend Bank Indonesia to revoke the li-

cense. Since they (illegal money changers) are not our members, of course we cannot take action pursuant to our organizational bylaws,” he explained.

In response to the problem of illegal money changers having lasted nearly over 10 years, the APVA even had urged Bank Indonesia to enforce a moratorium to new permit of foreign exchange trader as of January 2013 until the establishment of good governance of conducive and standardized foreign exchange trading industry. To make a healthier foreign exchange industry, the APVA wished there were more intensive communication with Bank Indonesia, including encouraging the issuance of the Act specifically setting forth the foreign exchange business. (kmb28)

Anticipation of bird flu

Poultry sold cheaply, smuggling still rampant Recent new bird flu case killing hundreds of thousands of ducks in Central Java, East Java and West Java potentially spreads to Bali.

The newly discovered bird flu virus is reported to be highly malignant and first discovered in Indonesia.

Bali having a great market potential of poultry still depends on outside region because of profit factor. The price of poultry in Bali is more expensive than in Java. On the other hand, the government, through Gubernatorial Regulation No.44/2005 expressly prohibits the delivery or entry of poultry to Bali except for poultry hatchling.

Such condition allows the smuggling from Java. Even, there is always a poultry smuggling effort to Bali every month. The delivery is not only carried out through large ports such as Gilimanuk, but also through traditional port that is difficult to monitor. From the data of the Integrated Agricultural Quarantine (KPT) of Gilimanuk, the officers could foil the smuggling of poultry and other prohibited animals almost every month. Not long ago, the KPT also arrested hundreds of ducks transported in two pick-ups. The perpetrator accidentally smothered

the duck’s beak with a rubber to trick the officers, but it was finally uncovered when examined.

Supervisor of the KPT Gilimanuk, Nyoman Budiarta, said it was difficult to break the chain of smuggling. The economic factor was dominant so that perpetrators ignored the health factor of the smuggled animals. The KPT Gilimanuk admitted that it had prevented, secured and eliminated hundreds of smuggled poultry from Java every month.

From January through April 2012, there were 1,021 poultry (chicken and Muscovy duck) eliminated. Budiarta said there was always a smuggling effort with different modes every month. Most smuggling cases did not involve the owner of poultry in person. They speculatively used a courier service. By and large, they commended it to container trucks or public buses. “We always make coordination with other agencies such as the Marine Police and Mobile Brigade at the examination post,” explained Budiarta.

According to him, the officials were always vigilant whether there was bird flu case or not by examining any suspicious thing using

the existing device. For instance, CCTV was used to observe the roof of truck. Nevertheless, such an effort could not cut the smuggling case to zero.

Other than relying on the vehicle examination at Gilimanuk, so far the KPT also received information from informants in East Java. The informant would tell if there was an attempt to bring in poultry to Bali.

Even, there was actually delivery of poultry every day, but it had been usually prevented in Banyuwangi or before crossing.

Meanwhile, from the observation held in Negara Market, traders admitted that some poultry for sale was brought in from Java. Every morning there were always birds delivered from Java and sold in the market with a vehicle having East Java’s license plate. It was very difficult to know who sent them and they would not confess if those chickens were smuggled.

Budiarta admitted if he ever heard the delivery through outside Gilimanuk Harbor. However, it was beyond the authority of KPT. “Our main tasks and function are in the harbor area, while beyond it is not our authority,” he explained. (kmb26)

AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati

German citizen Martin Robert Moller sits during a press conference in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia, on Monday, Dec. 17, 2012. Indonesian Customs in Bali said they arrested Moller on Dec. 14 allegedly attempting to smuggle 200 grams of hashish.

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Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Bali News

International

International

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Queue up to three kilometers in Gilimanuk

RLD

IBP/File

Feeder route of Sarbagita designed to use subscription The Trans Sarbagita bus is seen while loading up passengers

Denpasar (Bali Post) -

In the upcoming year 2013, the urban public transport functioned as feeder route for Trans Sarbagita of Corridor I Denpasar will be designed to apply subscription ticket. In addition, this public transportation will also be rejuvenated in an effort to arouse public interest to use the transport services. Unit Head of the Land Transport Services, Denpasar Transportation Agency, Dewa Ketut Adi Pradnyana, revealed the matter on Sunday (Dec 16).

According to Adi Pradnyana, the ticket subscription was still in formulation and would be implemented in the first two months of 2013. “Now, we are still performing technical studies. In practice, if there will be passengers using up to five times in a week, they will be probably given a free ticket,” he said.

He added the ticket subscription

system was still under review and survey to further stabilize the plan.

His party also planned the taking of ticket would be designed like taking a queue at bank. “Therefore, passengers just need to press a button,” he explained. To lure the public interest to use the transport services, we will also implement a lottery system namely by submitting a ticket for the next drawing,”

he said.

He said such an endeavor was taken to reduce the number of traffic jams caused by the excessive use of private vehicles in Denpasar.

Equally important, his party also planned to rejuvenate the vehicle in 2014. “For the time being, the number of vehicles will not be added and still use the existing 56 units,” he said.

Every day, he said, the number of passenger was considered quite significant where the average number per day reached 1,500. Of the four existing feeder routes (TP), the TP 2 serving the route to Sunrise Beach, Sanur and Sanglah Denpasar was the most favored by passengers.

“For four months, the number of passengers carried has reached 125,000. Hopefully, more passengers will use the transportation service next year. Therefore, the use of private vehicle will reduce and traffic congestion can be minimized. Ahead of the yearend, we will also continue to evaluate,” he said. (kmb13)

Waste production high, compost production still low Singaraja (Bali Post) -

Every day Buleleng Regency produces averagely 1,950.71 cubic meters of waste. Of that amount, 87.25 percent is organic waste that can be further processed into compost. However, the compost processing seems to have not run maximally so that many wastes remain to pile up in vain.

Information obtained on Sunday (Dec 16) mentioned the compost generated by the integrated waste processing installation (TPST) at

Jagaraga village, Sawan subdistrict, could only produce 50 tons of compost per year whereas the amount of waste sent to the TPST was quite a lot. To that end, the Buleleng Regency continued to make efforts to build additional TPST in order more organic waste could be processed into compost.

The Head of Buleleng Sanitation and Landscaping Agency (DKP), Ida Bagus Ketut Swarjana, admitted the production of waste in Buleleng was very high. More-

over, the population of Buleleng continued to grow each year so that waste production also increased.

According to him, 87.25 percent of the production coming to 1,950.71 cubic meters was organic waste.

The rest was inorganic waste such as plastic (6.42 percent), paper (2.77 percent), cloth (2.43 percent), tin (0.23 percent), bottles (0.23 percent), rubber (0.23 percent) and iron (0.11 percent.

To overcome the problem of abundant waste, his party continued

to build TPST so the waste processing could be carried out closer to the source of waste itself. According to him, his party established a TPST in 2009 by state fund in Kubutambahan. Besides, four similar installations were also built using Special Allocation Fund (DAK) in Tejakula, Pemaron, Banyupoh and Tukadmungga. Meanwhile, the other two installations were located in Busungbiu and Seririt used to produce compost from organic waste at once. “With the TPST

scattered in several subdistricts in Buleleng, we expect more composts can be produced to slightly help farmers, especially in the provision of fertilizer,” he said.

Swarjana added that all the TPST installations had worked with the Association of Farmer Group (Gapoktan) in Buleleng, especially in terms of the compost distribution. With such effective waste management, Swarjana hoped the waste problem in Buleleng could be tackled early. (kmb15)

13

Russian opposition fights to stay relevant Associated Press Writer

Negara (Bali Post) –

Hundreds of goods vehicles that were about to cross to Banyuwangi, East Java, trapped at Gilimanuk since Saturday (15/12) evening as the queue reached up to the woods or around three kilometers from the harbor. The truck drivers that were trapped stated that they have been trapped in traffic jam since in Tabanan while Gilimanuk was filled with between province busses, travel busses and goods vehicles starting from 7 pm local time. Up to 10 pm the queue reached 2 kilometers so then the queue were separated, direct trucks without going through Post I instead through Post KTP which is a shortcut to the goods vehicles ship. Those truck drivers were stuck at Bajra, Tabanan and Gilimanuk. “It took me three to four hours to be able going in the harbor,” a driver stated on Sunday (16/12) morning which the queue is still long.

Meanwhile Gilimanuk management (ASDP) has prepared 15 goods vehicles ships (LCT) also 14 passengers ships (KMP). Due to tiredness those truck drivers stopped driving and slept for a night causing those stationary trucks passed by other vehicles.

The queue started to calm by 9 am local time. Gilimanuk ASDP Operational Manager, Wahyudi Susianto, stated the queue happened due to the amount of trucks that came in the same time were a lot. (kmb26)

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

IBP/ap

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, leaves after attending a national meeting of top party and military officials on the eve of the first anniversary of the death of his late father Kim Jong Il.

North Koreans mourn Kim Jong Il 1 year later Associated Press Writer

PYONGYANG, North Korea — North Koreans across the country stopped in their tracks at midday Monday to silently honor former ruler Kim Jong Il, whose death one year ago swept his untested 20something son to power.

Pyongyang construction workers took off their yellow hard hats and bowed at the waist as sirens wailed across the city for three minutes. The son, Kim Jong Un, presided over a solemn ceremony to reopen the sprawling granite mausoleum where his father’s embalmed remains will lie in state near those of his grandfather, the nation’s founder Kim Il Sung.

Tens of thousands of North Koreans gathered in the frigid plaza outside the renovated hall where Kim Jong Il’s body was to go on public display later Monday. Lined with snow-tinged firs, the square has been turned into a park at Kim Jong Un’s orders and his father’s portrait installed on the building’s façade alongside that of Kim Il Sung.

The elder Kim died last Dec. 17 from a heart attack while traveling on his train. His death was famously followed by scenes of North Koreans dramatically wailing in the streets of Pyongyang, and of his pudgy young

son leading ranks of uniformed and gray-haired officials through a series of funeral and mourning rites.

The mood in the capital was decidedly more upbeat a year later, with some of the euphoria carrying over from last week’s successful launch of a rocket carrying a satellite named for one of Kim Jong Il’s many titles, Kwangmyongsong, or “Lode Star,” a nickname given to him at birth according to the official lore.

Speaking outside the mausoleum, renamed the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the military’s top political officer, Choe Ryong Hae, said North Korea should be proud of the satellite, calling it a show of strength to the world.

Much of the rest of the world, however, was swift in condemning the launch, which was seen by the United States and other nations as a thinly disguised cover for testing missile technology that could someday be used for a nuclear warhead.

The test, which potentially violates

a United Nations ban on North Korean missile activity, underlined Kim Jong Un’s determination to continue carrying out his father’s hardline policies even if they draw international condemnation.

Some outside experts worry that Pyongyang’s next move will be to press ahead with a nuclear test in the coming weeks, a necessary next step toward building a warhead small enough to be carried by a long-range missile.

Despite inviting further isolation for his impoverished nation and the threat of stiffer sanctions, Kim Jong Un won national prestige and clout by going ahead with the rocket launch.

At a memorial service on Sunday, North Korea’s top leadership not only eulogized Kim Jong Il, but also praised his son. Kim Yong Nam, president of the Presidium of North Korea’s parliament, called the launch a “shining victory” and an emblem of the promise that lies ahead with Kim Jong Un in power.

MOSCOW - Speaking to more than 100,000 protesters who thronged a Moscow street last December, charismatic anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny said Russia’s opposition had mustered “enough people to take the Kremlin.”

A year on, the movement that shocked Vladimir Putin’s regime and galvanized huge numbers of ordinary Russians is at an impasse. After a weekend rally to mark its first anniversary only attracted a few thousand protesters, opposition leaders met to figure out where they go from here.

“We are seeing a certain weariness. People had hoped for a quick result,” prominent opposition figure Ilya Yashin said during Sunday’s meeting. “But it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon.”

Since Putin easily won a third presidential term in March, the opposition has struggled to maintain any momentum or direction. Attendance at rallies has consistently ebbed. The Kremlin, meanwhile, has gone on the offensive, pushing through repressive new laws aimed at severely restricting opposition activity.

Opposition leaders and ordinary activists alike face criminal charges that could see them spend 10 years in prison. The euphoria of last winter’s irreverent and mostly middle-class protest movement has been replaced with a lingering sense of powerlessness and despair. Two thirds of Russians are “disenchanted” with Putin’s government, according to an October study by the Center for Strategic Research, a Kremlin-connected think tank, suggesting discontent goes far beyond supporters of the opposition.

Ratings for hagiographical TV specials detailing Putin’s daily life and public relations stunts have plummeted by two thirds, said Anton Krasovsky, a TV producer and political consultant. “People are tired of the same old agenda,” he said. “The country needs new heroes.” The opposition, however, has struggled to convert that discontent into support. Refusing to try to challenge Putin directly in the presidential election or develop a political program, conscious decisions intended to widen the opposition’s appeal, now looks like a tactical mistake. A poll released by the independent Levada Center last week found that 58 percent of Russians thought the protest movement had failed to change the situation in the country for the better.

None of its leaders had an approval rating higher than 3 percent.

“If you want to win support from the broadest sectors of society possible, you have to show that you’re an acceptable alternative, that you can be trusted behind the wheel,” Vladimir Milov, a former deputy energy minister now in opposition, wrote in a column on the Russian news site Gazeta.ru. “But since you spent time on nonsense instead of taking the fight to him, that’s why Putin’s the president.” Putin has belittled the opposition, saying it lacks leaders and “always demands the impossible and then never does anything.”

IBP/ap

Police officers detain opposition activists during an unauthorized rally in Lubyanka Square in Moscow, Russia, Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012.

After landslide, Abe says Japan has difficult road

Associated Press Writer

TOKYO - After leading his conservative party to a landslide victory that will bring it back to power after a three-year hiatus, Shinzo Abe stressed Monday that the road ahead will not be easy as he tries to revive Japan’s sputtering economy and bolster its national security amid deteriorating

relations with China.

The Liberal Democratic Party, which led Japan for most of the postWorld War II era until it was dumped as the economy fizzled in 2009, won 294 seats in the 480-seat lower house of parliament in Sunday’s nationwide elections, according to media reports.

Official results were expected later Monday. With the elections over, a

vote among the members of parliament to install the new prime minister is expected as soon as Dec. 25. Abe, who was prime minister from 20062007, is almost certain of winning that vote because the LDP now holds the majority in the lower house.

“We won more seats than even we expected,” Abe, 58, said Monday. “We have a very heavy responsibility.”

Outgoing Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda announced his resignation late Sunday, calling the election results “severe” and acknowledging his party failed to live up to the nation’s high expectations. His Democratic Party of Japan reportedly won only 57 seats.

Among its casualties were eight Cabinet ministers — the most lost in an election since World War II.

Economic issues, including plans to raise taxes and other measures to bolster Japan’s underperforming economy, were the top concerns among voters. Abe, who would be Japan’s seventh prime minister in 6 1/2 years, will likely push for increased public works spending and lobby for stronger moves by the central bank to break Japan out of its deflationary trap.

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International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Bali News

International

BUSINESS

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Indonesia wants sustainable development included in post-MDGs

Chinese leaders promise reform, spending if needed Associated Press

AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File

In this Nov. 16, 2012, file photo, President Barack Obama acknowledges House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio while speaking to reporters in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, as he hosted a meeting of the bipartisan, bicameral leadership of Congress to discuss the deficit and economy.

Movement seen in ‘fiscal cliff’ talks Associated Press

WASHINGTON — There has finally been some movement in long-stalled talks on avoiding the “fiscal cliff,” as the top Republican in Congress has offered to bend on raising taxes on some wealthy earners — though not as many as President Barack Obama wants, and only in exchange for cuts to popular benefit programs cherished by Democrats.

But as details emerged of the first offer

by House of Representatives Speaker John Boehner to increase tax rates, some optimism bloomed in Washington just as time is running out before Congress adjourns.

Tax rates on all workers go up when Bushera cuts expire in January, and $109 billion worth of automatic across-the-board spending cuts begin to take effect then as well.

Taken together with the expiration of extended jobless benefits and a 2-percentage-point break in Social Security pension taxes, the combination of austerity steps threatens to send the economy back into recession.

Under that cloud, a long impasse between Boehner and Obama ended Friday when the speaker offered $1 trillion in higher tax revenue over 10 years and an increase in the top tax rate on people making more than $1 million a year. He’s also offering a large enough extension in the federal government’s borrowing cap to fund it for one year before the issue must be revisited — conditioned on Obama agreeing to the $1 trillion in spending cuts.

The movement comes as an increasing

number of Republicans have called for a tactical retreat that would hand Obama a victory on his longstanding campaign promise to raise taxes on households making more than $250,000 a year in order to rein in deficit spending without hurting the middle class. That increase, combined with an increase in the tax rate on investment income from 15 percent to 20 percent, would raise about $800 billion in tax revenue over a decade.

Boehner’s offer calls for about $450 billion in revenue from increasing the top rate on million-dollar-plus income from 35 percent to the Clinton-era rate of 39.6 percent. The additional revenue required to meet Boehner’s $1 trillion target would be collected through a rewrite of the tax code next year and by slowing the inflation adjustments made to tax brackets.

In return, Boehner is asking for $1 trillion in spending cuts from government benefit programs like Medicare, the federal health care program for the elderly. Those cuts would defer most of a painful set of across-the-board spending cuts set to slash many domestic programs and the defense

budget by 8-9 percent, starting in January.

Boehner’s proposal was described Sunday by officials familiar with it. They required anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks.

Boehner also continues to press for a less generous inflation adjustment for Social Security pension benefits, a move endorsed by many budget hawks. Obama and Democrats on a deficit “supercommittee” endorsed the idea in offers made last year, but they’re more reluctant now.

The burst of optimism is tempered by the caution that the remaining steps to reaching a deal — particularly how much to cut Medicare and whether to impose the new, less generous inflation adjustment to Social Security pensions — are difficult. Then comes the job of selling it to a polarized Congress, where Republican conservatives have been railing against higher tax rates for months as a sure way to kill jobs and hurt small business, and Democrats have taken a harder line against cost cuts to Medicare.

But it appears clear there is momentum as White House and congressional aides worked through the weekend.

BEIJING — China’s new Communist Party leaders are promising reforms aimed at reducing reliance on exports and more spending if needed to prop up a shaky economic recovery.

In the first statement of their economic goals since taking power in November, the new party leaders pledged continuity Sunday with longterm plans aimed at nurturing self-sustaining growth and raising incomes. There was no indication of plans for major changes or new stimulus.

They promised to support domestic consumption, the growth of small businesses that generate jobs and more migration by rural residents into expanding cities to find better-paid jobs.

The new party general secretary, Xi Jinping, and other leaders are under pressure to overhaul an economic model based on exports and investment that delivered three decades of rapid growth but is running out of steam. Companies and political analysts are watching to see how far they are willing to go in remodeling the state-dominated economy.

In the shorter term, they also need to keep a recovery from China’s deepest economic downturn since the 2008 global crisis on track.

Party leaders promised a “proactive fiscal policy” and “prudent monetary policy” in a statement distributed by the official Xinhua News Agency at the end of a two-day annual planning meeting. That refers to willingness to boost government spending if needed and to keep credit easy so long as inflation stays low.

The world’s second-largest economy is limping out of the slump that pushed growth to a three-and-a-half-year low of 7.4 percent in the latest quarter but weak November trade data suggested the rebound might be faltering.

The World Bank and other analysts say Beijing needs to curb dominant state companies and promote service industries and consumer spending to keep incomes rising. They say without prompt action, growth might slow abruptly, leaving China stuck at middle-income levels.

Possible reforms face potential opposition from state companies that might see their privileges diminished and have influential allies in the party.

“If China does not change its strategy, it risks falling into the ‘middle income trap’,” Robert Zoellick, former World Bank president, said in a speech at a Beijing business conference last week. In a tacit acknowledgement of possible obstacles, Sunday’s statement said change would require “greater political courage and wisdom.” The new leadership promised to “accelerate structural reform,” open markets further and encourage efficiency, though they gave no details of possible changes. It said “enhancing quality and efficiency of economic growth” will be a “central task.”

Antara

IBP/Widana

The plan of central government through the Ministry of Education and Culture to remove the local language subject such as Balinese language in 2013 and combines it into the curriculum of the arts and cultural subject reaps rejection from hundreds of students and lecturers from several universities in Bali.

Hundreds of students rally

Reject the omission of Balinese language in curriculum 2013 Bali Post

DENPASAR - The plan of central government through the Ministry of Education and Culture to remove the local language subject such as Balinese language in 2013 and combines it into the curriculum of the arts and cultural subject reaps rejection from hundreds of students and lecturers from several universities in Bali. Those coalesced into the members of the Alliance of Balinese Language Care held a rally to Bali House on Friday (Dec 14) and demanded to maintain the Balinese language in the curriculum.

Such action involved the state and private universities in Bali, including the State Hindu Dharma Institute (IHDN) of Denpasar, Dwijendra University and PGRI Bali Teacher’s Training College. Aside from hundreds of students, some lectures from several campuses in Bali, humanists cultural and other Balinese public figures also joined the action. The demonstrators were willing to wait for the legislators that were still holding a plenary session in the Main Meeting Hall of the Bali House. Ultimately, they were received by Chairman of Commission IV of the Bali House, Nyoman Parta, accompanied by several legislators and the Head of Bali Education Agency, AA Ngurah Sujaya.

A lecturer from IHDN Denpasar, Wayan Sugita, who joined the student group, said the new curriculum in 2013 would merge the Balinese language subject into the package of the counter-productive Art and Cultural

Sciences. He considered there was a strong political element behind the enforcement of such curriculum.

With the merger of local languages into the subject of the arts and culture, local languages in the archipelago, especially the ones belonging to the minority ethnic, would disappear from our beloved homeland. Another threat was the graduates of Balinese language and literature would lose out their job opportunities because schools no longer taught Balinese language as independent subject. Moreover, the languages of the archipelago were the sources of the Indonesian culture. “If local languages are getting extinct by degrees because of such pro-majority policy curriculum, sooner or later the cultural diversity of Indonesia will be extinct,” he said.

Chairman of Commission IV of the Bali House, Nyoman Parta, said that his party agreed in order the Balinese language sub-

ject should not be removed from the new curriculum. He would continue to oversee the aspiration to central government by immediately asking the substance underlying the merger of local language subject into the art and culture. “On December 20, we will go to Jakarta and seriously continue to oversee the aspirations because the local language is starting to get a challenge,” he said.

The Head of Bali Education Agency, AA Ngurah Sujaya, conveyed that from the absorption of aspiration performed Bali Province remained to reject the removal of Balinese language subject from the curriculum. Bali had owned a Bylaw No.3/1992 governing about the protection of Balinese language. To that end, Balinese language should be taught in every level of education.

“We have told the minister and will keep fighting. Balinese language is our culture so that to preserve the local culture is obligatory,” he pleaded. (kmb29)

NUSA DUA - The Indonesian government wants sustainable development to be included in the Post-2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), after the current MDGs expire in 2015, said an Indonesian official.

Sustainable development should involve all the stakeholders, with emphasis on environmental preservation and economic growth with equity, Chairman of the Indonesian National Committee on the Post-2015 Development Agenda Kuntoro Mangkusubroto told the press, after the opening speech by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in Regional Meeting and Stakeholder Consultation on the Post-2015 Development Agenda.

This way, the benefits of development will not just be enjoyed by a small group of people, he said.

“We should look into sustainable development after 2015. It is in line with the MDGs, decided by 147 member countries of the United Nations in 2000,” he said.

The two-day meeting (December 13 and 14) was attended by 213 delegations from 19 countries (in the Asia-Pacific region).

“They shared several ideas with the president that can be included in the Post-2015 MDGs,” Mangkusubroto said.

Poses challenges Cooperation in technology between developing and developed countries remains a challenge to achieving the global warming and global development targets set in the Post-2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), according to an Indonesian official.

“Technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have been developed by advanced nations. Developing countries also need such technologies. Should they have pay a lot for that? It’s one of the examples,” said Mangkusubroto.

He stated that cooperation between developing and developed countries must be improved.

Mangkusobroto pointed out that advanced nations were not doing enough to address global warming concerns despite having the technologies to reduce carbon emissions.

“However, we have noticed a positive change in the United States lately. In the absence of a formal commitment, the country has managed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by around 20 percent. But with the help of the latest technologies, they should have been able to cut the emissions much more,” he added.

5

6

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

W

RLD

Obama in Newtown: ‘We can’t tolerate this anymore’

President Barack Obama assured the grieving, shell-shocked Newtown community on Sunday that “you are not alone” and vowed sternly to wield “whatever power this office holds” in a quest to prevent future mass shootings.

“We can’t tolerate this anymore,” Obama said from behind a podium on the stage of a Newton High School auditorium, as adults wept, or hugged, or sat quietly, many hugging small children. “These tragedies must end. And to end them, we must change.”

“In the coming weeks, I’ll use whatever power this office holds to engage my fellow citizens -- from law enforcement, to mental health professionals, to parents, and educators -- in an effort aimed at preventing more tragedies like this, because what choice do we have?”he said.

The speech, broadcast nationwide, offered the bold suggestion that Obama might engage lawmakers on the subject of gun control -- a topic that has not been among his top priorities during his presidency.

“We can’t accept events like this as routine. Are we really prepared to say that we’re powerless in the face of such carnage?”

Obama said. That the politics are too hard? Are we prepared to say that such violence visited on our children year, after year, after year is somehow the price of our freedom?”

There were sobs from the crowd as the president read the first names of the 20 children slaughtered at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Friday and paid tribute to the six adults who died defending them. Twenty-six candles in twenty-six shining glass vases shone from the base of the podium.

Obama anticipated — and dismissed — some of the time-honored arguments against stricter restrictions on guns. “We will be told that the causes of such violence are complex, and that is true,” he said. “No single law no set of laws can eliminate evil from the world or prevent every senseless act of violence in our society.”

“But that can’t be an excuse for inaction. Surely we can do better than this,” he said.

Across the country, people grieved for the 20 children — six and seven years old — and six adults

International

Activists protest pope’s comment on gay marriage Associated Press Writer

VATICAN CITY — Activists angered by Pope Benedict XVI’s recent comment about gay marriage have held a small protest in St. Peter’s Square during the pontiff’s weekly address there.

The protesters carried signs in several languages, including ones saying: “Marriage for All” and “Homophobia (equals) death.”

An Associated Press journalist saw police quickly seize placards from four of the protesters who entered the square Sunday as pilgrims and tourists were watching the pope appear at his studio window.

In his annual peace message released by the Vatican on Friday, the pontiff called gay marriage, and abortion, threats to peace.

The organizers of the protest issued a statement saying: “Gay unions don’t harm peace. Weapons do.”

Thousands seek shelter as cyclone batters Fiji Reuters

CANBERRA - More than 3,500 people evacuated to emergency shelters in Fiji as the biggest cyclone in 20 years swept across the Pacific island nation on Monday, three days after the storm killed four people and destroyed thousands of homes in nearby Samoa.

Tourist resorts on many of Fiji’s palm-fringed islands have been evacuated and authorities warned people to remain in shelter as Tropical Cyclone Evan battered the country, blowing over trees and destroying houses.

Authorities said Cyclone Evan had generated destructive winds, torrential rains and was likely to lead to flooding due to a storm surge as it passes to the northwestern side of the main Fiji islands of Vanua Levu and Viti Levu, with wind gusts up to 270 kmh (170 mph).

Fiji’s weather bureau said cyclone Evan was rated a category four storm, the second highest level, and was moving only at about 18 kph (11 mph), meaning the destructive winds could last several hours. Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama ordered public servants to stay at home and he put emergency services on standby. Hospitals and health centers have been closed for all but emergency patients.

Power supplies have also been cut to some areas as a precaution against falling power lines, including in the main tourist town of Nadi. Airlines grounded flights to and from Fiji, stranding about 1,900 visitors in the country.

“I cannot stress enough how serious this is. Every Fijian will be affected but we must take preventative steps now,” Bainimarama said.

Residents and businesses stocked up on food and put up shutters to protect shops and offices. Major roads have been closed and authorities are warning that bridges could be swamped by flood waters.

Schools throughout the country were also being used as evacuation centers, with authorities saying more than 3,500 people had sought shelter by late on Monday.

AP Photo/Evan Vucci

President Barack Obama pauses as he delivers a speech during an interfaith vigil for the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, at Newtown High School in Newtown, Conn. A gunman walked into the elementary school on Friday and opened fire, killing 26 people, including 20 children. killed in one of the worst mass shootings in America’s history.

In Newtown and elsewhere, mourners gently piled notes, stuffed animals and American flags, balloons and flowers, in makeshift memorials where candles fluttered.

New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz played wearing a shoe that read “R.I.P. Jack Pinto” in black marker, an homage to a child slain in the massacre.

Flags from coast to coast flew at half-staff. As the president’s motorcade climbed the hill up the school, he could glimpse a few homes with Christmas lights -- but most were dark.

“Here in Newtown, I come to offer the love and prayers of a nation,” the president said. “I am very mindful that mere words cannot match the depths of your sorrow, nor can they heal your wounded hearts.”

REUTERS/Fiji Ministry of Information/Handou

Strong waves caused by Cyclone Evan wash a beach in Queen Elizabeth Drive, in Suva in this handout picture taken December 17, 2012.

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

11

INDONESIA Police shoot dead fugitive linked to Wamena bombings Antara

JAYAPURA - Police on Sunday shot dead Hubert Mabel wanted for his alleged part in the bombing of district legislative body building and traffic police post in the Jajawijaya district capital of Wamena, Papua province.

Police officers shot Hubert on his right and left legs and chest as he tried to run away and snatch firearms from them, head of the Papua provincial police`s public relations service Adj. Snr. Comr. Gede Sumerta said on Sunday night.

By Sunday night his body was still kept at the Wamena regional general hospital, he said.

Hubert was also suspected of involvement in the attack on Pirime police precinct in Lanny Jaya district which killed three police officers.

The police tried to arrest Hubert after

on Friday (Dec 14) they arrested WJ on charges of carrying ammunition, Gede Sumerta said.

Before being shot dead, police officers with the help of WJ phoned Hubert to meet on Abusak street in Kurulu area.

At the meeting, Hubert was accompanied by his four colleagues armed with machetes.

The police asked Hubert and colleagues to surrender but they refused.

Instead, they attacked the police officers who later opened fire at Hubert, he said.

Anti-graft commission summons Djoko again Antara

JAKARTA - The Commission Eradication Commission (KPK) has once again summoned Insp. Gen. Djoko Susilo, a suspect in a corruption case involving the procurement of driving simulators for the National Police Traffic Corps in 2011.

“The investigation has not yet touched on the substance of the matter. He will be questioned as a suspect today,” a lawyer of Djoko said at the KPK building here on Monday.

Djoko`s questioning on Monday would be for the third time since he was named a suspect, but the first since he was held at the KPK detention house in the Guntur Jakarta Military Command`s (Kodam Jaya) Military Police Detachment.

On Thursday (December 13), he was questioned as a witness for another suspect, Brig. Gen. Didik Purnomo, the deputy head of the Traffic Police Corps.

Djoko arrived at the KPK building at 10.30 am, wearing a batik shirt that read “KPK Detainee.”

The former chief of the Traffic Police Corps headed straight to the KPK building without giving any statement to the press.

The KPK named him as a suspect on July 27, together with Brig Gen Didik, Budi Susanto, the president director of PT Citra Mandiri Metalindo Abadi (CMMA), the company which won the driving simulators` procurement tender, and Sukotjo S Bamang, the director of PT Inovasi Teknology Indonesia, a sub-contractor of CMMA. Sukotjo S Bambang was sentenced to 2.5 years in jail and is held at a detention centre in Kebon Waru, Bandung, West Java. He was prosecuted in a separate case for marking up the value of the project.

According to KPK data, the case has caused the state losses of between Rp100 billion and Rp196.8 billion.

(FOTO ANTARA/Widodo S. Jusuf)

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (2 right) installed Vice Admiral Marsetyo as the new Navy commander and Vice Marshal Ida Bagus Putu Dunia as the new Air Force chief here on Monday.

President installs new navy, air force chiefs Antara

JAKARTA - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono installed Vice Admiral Marsetyo as the new Navy commander and Vice Marshal Ida Bagus Putu Dunia as the new Air Force chief here on Monday.

The two military officers were installed based on Presidential Decision No. 78/TNI/2012 which was signed on December 14, 2012.

The induction ceremony was held the State Palace and was attended by House Speaker Marzuki Alie, Indonesian Defense Forces Commander Admiral Agus Suhartono, National Police Chief General Timur Pradopo, Army Chief Gen Pramono Edhie Wibowo, outgoing chief of the Air Force Imam Syufaat, outgoing chief of the

Navy Admiral Soeparno, Attorney General Basrief Arief and First Lady Mme Ani Yudhoyono.

Outgoing chief of the Air Force Imam Syufaat and outgoing chief of the Navy Admiral Soeparno will retire.

A number of ministers who also attended the function included Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Djoko Suyanto, Chief Economic Minister Hatta Rajasa, Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa, Minister/State Secretary Sudi Silalahi, Jakarta Governor Joko Widodo and a number of other senior state officials.

Previously, Vice Marshal Ida Bagus Putu Dunia was commander of TNI Staff and Command School while Vice Marshal Marsetyo was deputy chief of the Air Force.

Nuclear technology has long been developed in Indonesia

Antara

TANAH LAUT - Nuclear technology has long been developed in Indonesia but the public still focuses on its potential negative impact, according to National Nuclear Energy Agency (Batan) researcher Haryanto.

“Indonesia has developed nuclear technology for a long time, and the people have enjoyed its benefits in the health and agriculture sector, but they continue to focus on its negative aspects,” he said here on Monday.

“When they think of nuclear technology, they only think about the atom bomb attack

in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, or the leakage of Fukhusima nuclear reactor in Japan,” Haryanto noted.

“But nuclear technology has contributed significantly to agricultural development in our country,” he said, adding that nuclear technology had been used in Indonesia`s agricultural sector for a long time.

Haryanto pointed out that a variety of rice seeds were produced in Batan with the help of nuclear technology.

“It is also being widely used in the health and industrial sectors of Indonesia,” he added.

10

Destinations

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Sports

International

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

7

‘Linsanity’ limps out of Toronto on losing note Reuters

TORONTO - Jeremy Lin could be excused for wondering where all the mass hysteria he attracted last season has gone, but the Houston Rockets guard is not one to draw unnecessary attention to himself. When Lin visited the Toronto Raptors in February he was a member of the New York Knicks, playing the best basketball of his career and the face of a global craze dubbed “Linsanity” that transcended the sporting world.

Pabean Beach

A heavenly playground for surfers Without doubt, every hobbyist of surfing surely knows the existence Pabean Beach located at Pabean Hamlet, Ketewel, Gianyar. It is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the Ngurah Rai Airport. The huge waves of the beach are very good to perform marine activities.

In dry season (June-October), the wind blowing from the land will come, so that it will enable visitors to perform such activities until late afternoon.

Many surfers from around the world choose this black sandy beach to pit their guts by conquering the waves. It is appropriate for beginners or those who have a wealth of experience. Aside from being quiet, the beach also offers a very beautiful panorama. On that account, it’s natural if many villas and other accommodation are established around the Pabean Beach.

Formerly, livelihood of most residents here was catching fish.

Their catches were then sold to the market. Aside from catching fish, local people also had a habit of looking for seaweed and they called it paper seaweed. It grew well on the surface of sea rocks.

When the tide was low, then the sea rock overgrown by seaweeds would appear. At that time, many local residents would throng the beach to pick them. “However, the activity of collecting seaweed paper no longer exists to-

day because there are no buyers,” said chief of Pabean Customary Village, I Wayan Waniam.

Similarly, added Waniam, local fishermen looked not so excited because they were unable to go to sea. Other than caused by large waves, condition of the beach was no longer good because many parts of the beach had lived through abrasion.

Like the other beaches, the Pabean Beach is also a center of

IBP/Net

Pabean Beach

ritual activities of Hindu community Bali. Every celebration of Nyepi or Day of Silence, the community of Gianyar, chiefly Ubud and other areas, used to carry out their ritual procession on the beach. As consequence, it can beautify the coastal panorama. “Now, the melasti procession by local community has turned rarer. Instead, more and more tourists are coming here to surf,” he said.

Kids Party Christmas New Year Eve

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after a rash of injuries.

Lin has shown flashes of brilliance that made him such an exciting figure, most recently a 38-point outburst over a solid San Antonio Spurs team last week that tied a career high for the 24year-old Taiwanese-American.

But he has failed to consistently deliver what the Rockets were hoping for when they lured him away from New York with a $25.1 million, threeyear contract.

Just over a quarter of the way through the regular season, the man behind the “Linsanity” craze has averaged 11 points, 4.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game for an 11-12 Rockets team that is ninth in a 15-team Western Conference where the top eight teams

make the playoffs.

“I am not doing close to what I am capable of doing,” said Lin, who averaged 14.6 points in 35 games last season. “I’m my harshest critic and I’ll go ahead and say I’m doing terrible.”

It has been a whirlwind of a year for Lin, who was virtually an unknown bench player before going on an improbable multi-game stretch of greatness that made him one of the National Basketball Association’s most popular players and gave birth to the “Linsanity” phenomenon.

Regardless of his play, there will surely be plenty of eyes on Lin come Monday when he plays his first game at the New York Knicks since his offseason move to Houston.

Associated Press Writer

win the Tour - his sport’s most grueling race - and then the equal most decorated British Olympian after capturing gold at the London Games for his seventh medal.

“I’d like to thank my teammates, I wouldn’t be on this stage without them,” the Team Sky rider said. Olympic heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis was runner-up and Olympic and U.S. Open tennis champion Andy Murray was third in the hotly contested 59th running of the event.

Eight other Olympians or Paralympians - including Mo Farah, Chris Hoy and Ben Ainslie - and PGA golf champion Rory McIlroy were also on the 12-person shortlist for the award

at the end of a stellar year for British sport. Usain Bolt was announced as the Overseas Sports Personality of the Year for the third time in five years after defending his titles in the 100 and 200 meters plus the 4x100 relay at the London Olympics.

After winning a combined total of 185 medals, Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic squad won the Team of the Year at the annual awards ceremony at London’s ExCel arena - one of the games venues.

The BBC’s lifetime achievement award was given to Sebastian Coe, the two-time Olympic middle-distance champion who headed the London Games organizing committee.

Wiggins voted BBC sports personality of 2012

Classic Stage

MAGIC SHOW

But in Sunday’s 103-96 road loss to a weak Raptors team Lin had a pedestrian seven points, a far cry from the 27 he had in February when he made a game-winning three-pointer for the Knicks with under a second to play.

“If I could turn it on like a switch like that easy I would obviously turn it on but that’s not how it works,” Lin told a group of reporters that paled in comparison to the crowed he drew in February when a special room was set up to accommodate the flood of media.

Houston’s offseason acquisition of Lin was made with hopes that he would build on the breakout run he enjoyed with New York, who only plugged him into their starting lineup

REUTERS/Mike Cassese

Houston Rockets guard Jeremy Lin goes to the basket during the first half of their NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors in Toronto December 16, 2012.

LONDON - Cyclist Bradley Wiggins was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2012 on Sunday after winning the Tour de France and Olympic time trial gold in the space of 11 days this summer. “What a year - to stand on this stage with the people next to me is incredible,” said Wiggins, who was presented with the prestigious award by the Duchess of Cambridge and football star David Beckham.

Wiggins is the second cyclist in successive years to win the prize, after Mark Cavendish in 2011 - capping another successful year for British cycling. He became the first Briton to

“Blade Runner” Pistorius to race in Australia Associated Press Writer

MELBOURNE, Australia — The six-time Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius will race in Australia for the first time next year in two legs of the Australian Athletics Tour.

Pistorius, the South African-born double amputee who also reached the semifinals of the 400 meters at this year’s London Olympics, will race at

Sydney on March 9 and Perth a week later.

Known as the Blade Runner for his prosthetic racing blades, Pistorius said “the 4x400m team from Australia has always been strong so I know there will be strong competition at both meets. The rise of Steve Solomon to the Olympic final was outstanding, too, so fingers crossed I will see him on the start lists when I am out there.”

FILE - In this Aug 5, 2012 file photo, South Africa’s Oscar Pistorius starts in the men’s 400-meter semifinal during the athletics in the Olympic Stadium at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

AP Photo/Anja Niedringhaus, File

8

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Sp rt

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Juve extend lead while Napoli stunned at home

Messi leaves Falcao and Ronaldo trailing in La Liga

Reuters

MILAN - Juventus extended their Serie A lead with an embarrassingly easy 3-0 home win over Atalanta on Sunday while rivals Napoli blew their chance to go second with a dramatic late collapse at home to Bologna. Napoli appeared set to overtake Inter Milan when Uruguay forward Edinson Cavani put them 2-1 ahead in the 70th minute with his 12th goal of the league season.

Instead, Panagiotis Kone levelled with one of the goals of the season in the 86th minute, meeting a cross with an acrobatic volley from just inside the penalty area.

Napoli’s stunned coach Walter Mazzarri was still absorbing that blow when Daniele Portanova got infront of the defence to head another in the 89th minute and give Bologna a 3-2 away win which kept their opponents third with 33 points.

Manolo Gabbiandini had given Bologna a 10th minute lead and Alessandro Gamberini levelled from close range five minutes after halftime.

Atalanta, who have beaten Napoli and Inter Milan this season, trailed by three goals and were reduced to 10 men after barely more than half an hour at the Juventus Stadium. Andrea Pirlo’s goal from a curling, dipping free kick was the highlight of Juve’s win as the titleholders went seven points clear of secondplaced Inter Milan, who lost at Lazio in fourth on Saturday.

Mirko Vucinic set Juve on their way in the second minute and Claudio Marchisio scored the third as defending champions Juventus moved on to 41 points after their 13th win in 17 league games.

AC Milan were given a helping hand on their way to a 4-1 win over lowly Pescara, who gave away two own goals, while Luca Toni scored twice as Fiorentina in fifth produced another impressive performance to beat bottom club Siena by the same score.

Reuters

MADRID - Barcelona’s relentless pace at the top of La Liga, fired by the insatiable Lionel Messi, has left their closest rivals Atletico and Real Madrid all but throwing in the towel before the midway point of the season. Any doubts about Tito Vilanova’s abilities to take up where Pep Guardiola left off after four trophy-ladened seasons look to have been misplaced with Barca nine points clear of Atletico and 13 ahead of champions Real Madrid after only 16 games.

A 4-1 thrashing of Diego Simeone’s pretenders on Sunday, with another double from Messi, served to underline their dominance in a league where they have swept up 46 of 48 points so far. Third-placed Real were held to a surprise 2-2 draw by Espanyol at the Bernabeu.

“Barca are left without rivals,” Cataloniabased daily Sport gloated on Monday. “The league isn’t won yet... but everyone thinks it is.

“Those who thought it would be impossible to better Guardiola’s era were short-sighted. Last night, Barca won two games in one. Madrid were knocked out, and Atletico brought to their knees.” Argentina forward Messi, who is favourite to collect a fourth World Player award next month, may not have been the outstanding figure against Atletico but he won his personal duel with the league’s other form striker Radamel Falcao.

Adriano’s spectacular equaliser for Barca was the pick of the goals at the Nou Camp, but Messi bagged two second-half goals to help cancel out Colombia striker Falcao’s deft 31st minute opener.

9

HOME RECORD The 26-year-old Falcao, on the wish list for a number of top European clubs, glanced a header against the post, pulled another shot just wide and grabbed his 17th goal in La Liga with a cool oneon-one finish past Victor Valdes. Messi, however, topped that with his brace. He has scored the same as or more than 17 other sides in La Liga with 25 so far, and took his 2012 tally for club and country to 90.

“Barcelona’s overall play is very important, but he opens up and finishes off many of the matches.

He is different,” Simeone said of his Argentine compatriot. Atletico’s title credentials may have been dented by their failures at Real and Barca, but La Liga’s only remaining 100 percent home record means the Calderon could still play a part in deciding the outcome. Just as Atletico so far have replaced their city rivals as Barca’s closest pursuers, so Falcao has usurped Cristiano Ronaldo as Messi’s nearest challenger in the goal-scoring charts. With Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema both out injured, Ronaldo scored one and set up a second for

Fabio Coentrao against Espanyol, taking his league tally to 14, but it was not enough.

“Cristiano played a good game, but his team mates didn’t,” under-pressure Real coach Jose Mourinho told a news conference. “The overall attitude was good but we lacked composure and luck.” Real face another tough trip before the winter break, away at fourth-placed Malaga on Saturday, when Barca visit Valladolid.

“We aren’t stupid, we know we are in a good position in the league, but we must be prudent because the league is far from over yet,” Spain and Barca midfielder Xavi told reporters.

AP Photo/Daniele Badolato, LaPresse

Cagliari’s Swedish midfielder Sebastian Eriksson, left, and Juventus midfielder Simone Padoin vie for the ball during a Coppa Italia (Italy Cup) soccer match between Juventus and Cagliari, in Turin’s Juventus stadium, Italy, Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012.

AP Photo/Manu Fernandez

FC Barcelona’s Lionel Messi from Argentina reacts after scoring against Atletico Madrid during a Spanish La Liga soccer match at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, Dec.16, 2012.

Pressure mounts as Chelsea fritter away another trophy Reuters

YOKOHAMA - Losing one trophy could be regarded as misfortune but frittering away four in as many months is starting to look like carelessness of the highest order for Chelsea. Beaten in the Community Shield and UEFA Super Cup before becoming the first holders eliminated AP Photo/Shuji Kajiyama

Chelsea FC’s Fernando Torres reacts during the final against Corinthians af the FIFA Club World Cup soccer tournament in Yokohama, near Tokyo, Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012.

from the Champions League at the group stage, Chelsea were ambushed by Corinthians 1-0 in Sunday’s Club World Cup final in Yokohama.

The London club are also 13 points off the pace in the Premier League. Losing in Japan stung.

“It’s a long way to come to lose,” Frank Lampard told reporters after a final Chelsea dominated for the first hour before tiring.

“We didn’t take our chances and we gave them a goal. This tournament was meaningful for us from the minute we for here.

It is a big disappointment.” A fortuitous winner, headed home

by Paolo Guerrero in the 69th minute after the ball had looped

up off Gary Cahill’s boot, gave Corinthians the title.

Chelsea’s players slumped to the turf at the final whistle, Brazilian defender David Luiz in tears and having to be consoled by team mates.

The resurgence of striker Fernando Torres, who had scored five goals in his previous three games - against Nordsjaelland, Sunderland and Monterrey - was put into sharp perspective. “You have to try and find positives,” said interim coach Rafael Benitez, whose side play at Leeds United in the League Cup on

S. Africa suspends officials over fixing claims Associated Press Writer

Wednesday after a 6,000-mile flight back to London.

“Fernando had the chances. He scored a goal that was disallowed.

He has to take these chances in a final because it’s not easy to create too many in games like this.

“If you have two or three, you have to score. But at least he was winning a lot of balls in the air, he was fresh, and you could see that physically he is improving.”

JOHANNESBURG — The South African Football Association says it has suspended officials, including its president, after a FIFA report into match-fixing ahead of the 2010 World Cup found “compelling evidence” that one or more games were fixed by betting syndicates.

The association made the announcement in a statement Monday.

On Saturday, the association said that it was “infiltrated” by nowconvicted match-fixer Wilson Perumal and his “bogus” football company Football4U, which was a front for the Asian syndicates.

No players have been implicated in fixing matches. Instead, referees appointed by Football4U are believed to have fixed the games.

SAFA didn’t identify the games but South Africa’s 5-0 win over Guatemala was under suspicion.

SAFA says FIFA’s report also recommended “further examination” of some South African officials.

PSG scrapes 1-0 win against Lyon to move top Associated Press Writer

PARIS — Blaise Matuidi headed in Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s cross late in first-half stoppage time as Paris SaintGermain beat Lyon 1-0 on Sunday to move above its title rival and into first place in the French league. PSG, Lyon and third-place Marseille are all locked on 35 points after 18 matches, but PSG has the better goal difference as it seeks to win its first league title since the 1993-94 season.

“The team is much more solid now,” PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti said. “The first half was difficult for us, but we were much better in the second half and we could have scored again. Lyon is a solid team with a lot of character and will surely compete for the title.”

Lyon striker Lisandro Lopez hit the post with an instinctive volley in the 27th minute, and his team looked the better side until it was caught out with a classic counterattack goal as it pushed forward in numbers. “I still believe the team is on the right track,” Lyon coach Remi Garde said, lamenting the absence of injured creative midfielders Yoann Gourcuff and Clement Grenier. “We hit the post when it was 0-0.”

Earlier, Lorient won 2-0 at SaintEtienne to move into fourth place and last-place Nancy drew 1-1 at home with Bordeaux. PSG won its past two league games 4-0 to bounce back from a miserable run of league form in which it lost three games in five. After a cagey opening at Parc des Princes, PSG had the first shot on target in the

13th when Javier Pastore collected a pass near the penalty spot and forced Remy Vercoutre into a fine save.

Lyon’s first effort came in the 23rd but it was only a half-chance for Bafetimbi Gomis as he poked at the ball under pressure from center half Mamadou Sakho and goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu made an easy save.

Four minutes later, Lyon almost scored when Lopez ran onto midfielder Gueida Fofana’s superb 40-yard pass over the top of the defense and hit a volley at full stretch which beat Sirigu and bounced off the post.

“The match changed when Lisandro hit the post because we scored straight after,” PSG right back Christophe Jallet said. “But we haven’t conceded a goal for three matches now and that is a good sign.”

8

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Sp rt

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Juve extend lead while Napoli stunned at home

Messi leaves Falcao and Ronaldo trailing in La Liga

Reuters

MILAN - Juventus extended their Serie A lead with an embarrassingly easy 3-0 home win over Atalanta on Sunday while rivals Napoli blew their chance to go second with a dramatic late collapse at home to Bologna. Napoli appeared set to overtake Inter Milan when Uruguay forward Edinson Cavani put them 2-1 ahead in the 70th minute with his 12th goal of the league season.

Instead, Panagiotis Kone levelled with one of the goals of the season in the 86th minute, meeting a cross with an acrobatic volley from just inside the penalty area.

Napoli’s stunned coach Walter Mazzarri was still absorbing that blow when Daniele Portanova got infront of the defence to head another in the 89th minute and give Bologna a 3-2 away win which kept their opponents third with 33 points.

Manolo Gabbiandini had given Bologna a 10th minute lead and Alessandro Gamberini levelled from close range five minutes after halftime.

Atalanta, who have beaten Napoli and Inter Milan this season, trailed by three goals and were reduced to 10 men after barely more than half an hour at the Juventus Stadium. Andrea Pirlo’s goal from a curling, dipping free kick was the highlight of Juve’s win as the titleholders went seven points clear of secondplaced Inter Milan, who lost at Lazio in fourth on Saturday.

Mirko Vucinic set Juve on their way in the second minute and Claudio Marchisio scored the third as defending champions Juventus moved on to 41 points after their 13th win in 17 league games.

AC Milan were given a helping hand on their way to a 4-1 win over lowly Pescara, who gave away two own goals, while Luca Toni scored twice as Fiorentina in fifth produced another impressive performance to beat bottom club Siena by the same score.

Reuters

MADRID - Barcelona’s relentless pace at the top of La Liga, fired by the insatiable Lionel Messi, has left their closest rivals Atletico and Real Madrid all but throwing in the towel before the midway point of the season. Any doubts about Tito Vilanova’s abilities to take up where Pep Guardiola left off after four trophy-ladened seasons look to have been misplaced with Barca nine points clear of Atletico and 13 ahead of champions Real Madrid after only 16 games.

A 4-1 thrashing of Diego Simeone’s pretenders on Sunday, with another double from Messi, served to underline their dominance in a league where they have swept up 46 of 48 points so far. Third-placed Real were held to a surprise 2-2 draw by Espanyol at the Bernabeu.

“Barca are left without rivals,” Cataloniabased daily Sport gloated on Monday. “The league isn’t won yet... but everyone thinks it is.

“Those who thought it would be impossible to better Guardiola’s era were short-sighted. Last night, Barca won two games in one. Madrid were knocked out, and Atletico brought to their knees.” Argentina forward Messi, who is favourite to collect a fourth World Player award next month, may not have been the outstanding figure against Atletico but he won his personal duel with the league’s other form striker Radamel Falcao.

Adriano’s spectacular equaliser for Barca was the pick of the goals at the Nou Camp, but Messi bagged two second-half goals to help cancel out Colombia striker Falcao’s deft 31st minute opener.

9

HOME RECORD The 26-year-old Falcao, on the wish list for a number of top European clubs, glanced a header against the post, pulled another shot just wide and grabbed his 17th goal in La Liga with a cool oneon-one finish past Victor Valdes. Messi, however, topped that with his brace. He has scored the same as or more than 17 other sides in La Liga with 25 so far, and took his 2012 tally for club and country to 90.

“Barcelona’s overall play is very important, but he opens up and finishes off many of the matches.

He is different,” Simeone said of his Argentine compatriot. Atletico’s title credentials may have been dented by their failures at Real and Barca, but La Liga’s only remaining 100 percent home record means the Calderon could still play a part in deciding the outcome. Just as Atletico so far have replaced their city rivals as Barca’s closest pursuers, so Falcao has usurped Cristiano Ronaldo as Messi’s nearest challenger in the goal-scoring charts. With Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema both out injured, Ronaldo scored one and set up a second for

Fabio Coentrao against Espanyol, taking his league tally to 14, but it was not enough.

“Cristiano played a good game, but his team mates didn’t,” under-pressure Real coach Jose Mourinho told a news conference. “The overall attitude was good but we lacked composure and luck.” Real face another tough trip before the winter break, away at fourth-placed Malaga on Saturday, when Barca visit Valladolid.

“We aren’t stupid, we know we are in a good position in the league, but we must be prudent because the league is far from over yet,” Spain and Barca midfielder Xavi told reporters.

AP Photo/Daniele Badolato, LaPresse

Cagliari’s Swedish midfielder Sebastian Eriksson, left, and Juventus midfielder Simone Padoin vie for the ball during a Coppa Italia (Italy Cup) soccer match between Juventus and Cagliari, in Turin’s Juventus stadium, Italy, Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012.

AP Photo/Manu Fernandez

FC Barcelona’s Lionel Messi from Argentina reacts after scoring against Atletico Madrid during a Spanish La Liga soccer match at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, Dec.16, 2012.

Pressure mounts as Chelsea fritter away another trophy Reuters

YOKOHAMA - Losing one trophy could be regarded as misfortune but frittering away four in as many months is starting to look like carelessness of the highest order for Chelsea. Beaten in the Community Shield and UEFA Super Cup before becoming the first holders eliminated AP Photo/Shuji Kajiyama

Chelsea FC’s Fernando Torres reacts during the final against Corinthians af the FIFA Club World Cup soccer tournament in Yokohama, near Tokyo, Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012.

from the Champions League at the group stage, Chelsea were ambushed by Corinthians 1-0 in Sunday’s Club World Cup final in Yokohama.

The London club are also 13 points off the pace in the Premier League. Losing in Japan stung.

“It’s a long way to come to lose,” Frank Lampard told reporters after a final Chelsea dominated for the first hour before tiring.

“We didn’t take our chances and we gave them a goal. This tournament was meaningful for us from the minute we for here.

It is a big disappointment.” A fortuitous winner, headed home

by Paolo Guerrero in the 69th minute after the ball had looped

up off Gary Cahill’s boot, gave Corinthians the title.

Chelsea’s players slumped to the turf at the final whistle, Brazilian defender David Luiz in tears and having to be consoled by team mates.

The resurgence of striker Fernando Torres, who had scored five goals in his previous three games - against Nordsjaelland, Sunderland and Monterrey - was put into sharp perspective. “You have to try and find positives,” said interim coach Rafael Benitez, whose side play at Leeds United in the League Cup on

S. Africa suspends officials over fixing claims Associated Press Writer

Wednesday after a 6,000-mile flight back to London.

“Fernando had the chances. He scored a goal that was disallowed.

He has to take these chances in a final because it’s not easy to create too many in games like this.

“If you have two or three, you have to score. But at least he was winning a lot of balls in the air, he was fresh, and you could see that physically he is improving.”

JOHANNESBURG — The South African Football Association says it has suspended officials, including its president, after a FIFA report into match-fixing ahead of the 2010 World Cup found “compelling evidence” that one or more games were fixed by betting syndicates.

The association made the announcement in a statement Monday.

On Saturday, the association said that it was “infiltrated” by nowconvicted match-fixer Wilson Perumal and his “bogus” football company Football4U, which was a front for the Asian syndicates.

No players have been implicated in fixing matches. Instead, referees appointed by Football4U are believed to have fixed the games.

SAFA didn’t identify the games but South Africa’s 5-0 win over Guatemala was under suspicion.

SAFA says FIFA’s report also recommended “further examination” of some South African officials.

PSG scrapes 1-0 win against Lyon to move top Associated Press Writer

PARIS — Blaise Matuidi headed in Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s cross late in first-half stoppage time as Paris SaintGermain beat Lyon 1-0 on Sunday to move above its title rival and into first place in the French league. PSG, Lyon and third-place Marseille are all locked on 35 points after 18 matches, but PSG has the better goal difference as it seeks to win its first league title since the 1993-94 season.

“The team is much more solid now,” PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti said. “The first half was difficult for us, but we were much better in the second half and we could have scored again. Lyon is a solid team with a lot of character and will surely compete for the title.”

Lyon striker Lisandro Lopez hit the post with an instinctive volley in the 27th minute, and his team looked the better side until it was caught out with a classic counterattack goal as it pushed forward in numbers. “I still believe the team is on the right track,” Lyon coach Remi Garde said, lamenting the absence of injured creative midfielders Yoann Gourcuff and Clement Grenier. “We hit the post when it was 0-0.”

Earlier, Lorient won 2-0 at SaintEtienne to move into fourth place and last-place Nancy drew 1-1 at home with Bordeaux. PSG won its past two league games 4-0 to bounce back from a miserable run of league form in which it lost three games in five. After a cagey opening at Parc des Princes, PSG had the first shot on target in the

13th when Javier Pastore collected a pass near the penalty spot and forced Remy Vercoutre into a fine save.

Lyon’s first effort came in the 23rd but it was only a half-chance for Bafetimbi Gomis as he poked at the ball under pressure from center half Mamadou Sakho and goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu made an easy save.

Four minutes later, Lyon almost scored when Lopez ran onto midfielder Gueida Fofana’s superb 40-yard pass over the top of the defense and hit a volley at full stretch which beat Sirigu and bounced off the post.

“The match changed when Lisandro hit the post because we scored straight after,” PSG right back Christophe Jallet said. “But we haven’t conceded a goal for three matches now and that is a good sign.”

10

Destinations

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Sports

International

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

7

‘Linsanity’ limps out of Toronto on losing note Reuters

TORONTO - Jeremy Lin could be excused for wondering where all the mass hysteria he attracted last season has gone, but the Houston Rockets guard is not one to draw unnecessary attention to himself. When Lin visited the Toronto Raptors in February he was a member of the New York Knicks, playing the best basketball of his career and the face of a global craze dubbed “Linsanity” that transcended the sporting world.

Pabean Beach

A heavenly playground for surfers Without doubt, every hobbyist of surfing surely knows the existence Pabean Beach located at Pabean Hamlet, Ketewel, Gianyar. It is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the Ngurah Rai Airport. The huge waves of the beach are very good to perform marine activities.

In dry season (June-October), the wind blowing from the land will come, so that it will enable visitors to perform such activities until late afternoon.

Many surfers from around the world choose this black sandy beach to pit their guts by conquering the waves. It is appropriate for beginners or those who have a wealth of experience. Aside from being quiet, the beach also offers a very beautiful panorama. On that account, it’s natural if many villas and other accommodation are established around the Pabean Beach.

Formerly, livelihood of most residents here was catching fish.

Their catches were then sold to the market. Aside from catching fish, local people also had a habit of looking for seaweed and they called it paper seaweed. It grew well on the surface of sea rocks.

When the tide was low, then the sea rock overgrown by seaweeds would appear. At that time, many local residents would throng the beach to pick them. “However, the activity of collecting seaweed paper no longer exists to-

day because there are no buyers,” said chief of Pabean Customary Village, I Wayan Waniam.

Similarly, added Waniam, local fishermen looked not so excited because they were unable to go to sea. Other than caused by large waves, condition of the beach was no longer good because many parts of the beach had lived through abrasion.

Like the other beaches, the Pabean Beach is also a center of

IBP/Net

Pabean Beach

ritual activities of Hindu community Bali. Every celebration of Nyepi or Day of Silence, the community of Gianyar, chiefly Ubud and other areas, used to carry out their ritual procession on the beach. As consequence, it can beautify the coastal panorama. “Now, the melasti procession by local community has turned rarer. Instead, more and more tourists are coming here to surf,” he said.

Kids Party Christmas New Year Eve

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after a rash of injuries.

Lin has shown flashes of brilliance that made him such an exciting figure, most recently a 38-point outburst over a solid San Antonio Spurs team last week that tied a career high for the 24year-old Taiwanese-American.

But he has failed to consistently deliver what the Rockets were hoping for when they lured him away from New York with a $25.1 million, threeyear contract.

Just over a quarter of the way through the regular season, the man behind the “Linsanity” craze has averaged 11 points, 4.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game for an 11-12 Rockets team that is ninth in a 15-team Western Conference where the top eight teams

make the playoffs.

“I am not doing close to what I am capable of doing,” said Lin, who averaged 14.6 points in 35 games last season. “I’m my harshest critic and I’ll go ahead and say I’m doing terrible.”

It has been a whirlwind of a year for Lin, who was virtually an unknown bench player before going on an improbable multi-game stretch of greatness that made him one of the National Basketball Association’s most popular players and gave birth to the “Linsanity” phenomenon.

Regardless of his play, there will surely be plenty of eyes on Lin come Monday when he plays his first game at the New York Knicks since his offseason move to Houston.

Associated Press Writer

win the Tour - his sport’s most grueling race - and then the equal most decorated British Olympian after capturing gold at the London Games for his seventh medal.

“I’d like to thank my teammates, I wouldn’t be on this stage without them,” the Team Sky rider said. Olympic heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis was runner-up and Olympic and U.S. Open tennis champion Andy Murray was third in the hotly contested 59th running of the event.

Eight other Olympians or Paralympians - including Mo Farah, Chris Hoy and Ben Ainslie - and PGA golf champion Rory McIlroy were also on the 12-person shortlist for the award

at the end of a stellar year for British sport. Usain Bolt was announced as the Overseas Sports Personality of the Year for the third time in five years after defending his titles in the 100 and 200 meters plus the 4x100 relay at the London Olympics.

After winning a combined total of 185 medals, Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic squad won the Team of the Year at the annual awards ceremony at London’s ExCel arena - one of the games venues.

The BBC’s lifetime achievement award was given to Sebastian Coe, the two-time Olympic middle-distance champion who headed the London Games organizing committee.

Wiggins voted BBC sports personality of 2012

Classic Stage

MAGIC SHOW

But in Sunday’s 103-96 road loss to a weak Raptors team Lin had a pedestrian seven points, a far cry from the 27 he had in February when he made a game-winning three-pointer for the Knicks with under a second to play.

“If I could turn it on like a switch like that easy I would obviously turn it on but that’s not how it works,” Lin told a group of reporters that paled in comparison to the crowed he drew in February when a special room was set up to accommodate the flood of media.

Houston’s offseason acquisition of Lin was made with hopes that he would build on the breakout run he enjoyed with New York, who only plugged him into their starting lineup

REUTERS/Mike Cassese

Houston Rockets guard Jeremy Lin goes to the basket during the first half of their NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors in Toronto December 16, 2012.

LONDON - Cyclist Bradley Wiggins was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2012 on Sunday after winning the Tour de France and Olympic time trial gold in the space of 11 days this summer. “What a year - to stand on this stage with the people next to me is incredible,” said Wiggins, who was presented with the prestigious award by the Duchess of Cambridge and football star David Beckham.

Wiggins is the second cyclist in successive years to win the prize, after Mark Cavendish in 2011 - capping another successful year for British cycling. He became the first Briton to

“Blade Runner” Pistorius to race in Australia Associated Press Writer

MELBOURNE, Australia — The six-time Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius will race in Australia for the first time next year in two legs of the Australian Athletics Tour.

Pistorius, the South African-born double amputee who also reached the semifinals of the 400 meters at this year’s London Olympics, will race at

Sydney on March 9 and Perth a week later.

Known as the Blade Runner for his prosthetic racing blades, Pistorius said “the 4x400m team from Australia has always been strong so I know there will be strong competition at both meets. The rise of Steve Solomon to the Olympic final was outstanding, too, so fingers crossed I will see him on the start lists when I am out there.”

FILE - In this Aug 5, 2012 file photo, South Africa’s Oscar Pistorius starts in the men’s 400-meter semifinal during the athletics in the Olympic Stadium at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

AP Photo/Anja Niedringhaus, File

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Obama in Newtown: ‘We can’t tolerate this anymore’

President Barack Obama assured the grieving, shell-shocked Newtown community on Sunday that “you are not alone” and vowed sternly to wield “whatever power this office holds” in a quest to prevent future mass shootings.

“We can’t tolerate this anymore,” Obama said from behind a podium on the stage of a Newton High School auditorium, as adults wept, or hugged, or sat quietly, many hugging small children. “These tragedies must end. And to end them, we must change.”

“In the coming weeks, I’ll use whatever power this office holds to engage my fellow citizens -- from law enforcement, to mental health professionals, to parents, and educators -- in an effort aimed at preventing more tragedies like this, because what choice do we have?”he said.

The speech, broadcast nationwide, offered the bold suggestion that Obama might engage lawmakers on the subject of gun control -- a topic that has not been among his top priorities during his presidency.

“We can’t accept events like this as routine. Are we really prepared to say that we’re powerless in the face of such carnage?”

Obama said. That the politics are too hard? Are we prepared to say that such violence visited on our children year, after year, after year is somehow the price of our freedom?”

There were sobs from the crowd as the president read the first names of the 20 children slaughtered at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Friday and paid tribute to the six adults who died defending them. Twenty-six candles in twenty-six shining glass vases shone from the base of the podium.

Obama anticipated — and dismissed — some of the time-honored arguments against stricter restrictions on guns. “We will be told that the causes of such violence are complex, and that is true,” he said. “No single law no set of laws can eliminate evil from the world or prevent every senseless act of violence in our society.”

“But that can’t be an excuse for inaction. Surely we can do better than this,” he said.

Across the country, people grieved for the 20 children — six and seven years old — and six adults

International

Activists protest pope’s comment on gay marriage Associated Press Writer

VATICAN CITY — Activists angered by Pope Benedict XVI’s recent comment about gay marriage have held a small protest in St. Peter’s Square during the pontiff’s weekly address there.

The protesters carried signs in several languages, including ones saying: “Marriage for All” and “Homophobia (equals) death.”

An Associated Press journalist saw police quickly seize placards from four of the protesters who entered the square Sunday as pilgrims and tourists were watching the pope appear at his studio window.

In his annual peace message released by the Vatican on Friday, the pontiff called gay marriage, and abortion, threats to peace.

The organizers of the protest issued a statement saying: “Gay unions don’t harm peace. Weapons do.”

Thousands seek shelter as cyclone batters Fiji Reuters

CANBERRA - More than 3,500 people evacuated to emergency shelters in Fiji as the biggest cyclone in 20 years swept across the Pacific island nation on Monday, three days after the storm killed four people and destroyed thousands of homes in nearby Samoa.

Tourist resorts on many of Fiji’s palm-fringed islands have been evacuated and authorities warned people to remain in shelter as Tropical Cyclone Evan battered the country, blowing over trees and destroying houses.

Authorities said Cyclone Evan had generated destructive winds, torrential rains and was likely to lead to flooding due to a storm surge as it passes to the northwestern side of the main Fiji islands of Vanua Levu and Viti Levu, with wind gusts up to 270 kmh (170 mph).

Fiji’s weather bureau said cyclone Evan was rated a category four storm, the second highest level, and was moving only at about 18 kph (11 mph), meaning the destructive winds could last several hours. Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama ordered public servants to stay at home and he put emergency services on standby. Hospitals and health centers have been closed for all but emergency patients.

Power supplies have also been cut to some areas as a precaution against falling power lines, including in the main tourist town of Nadi. Airlines grounded flights to and from Fiji, stranding about 1,900 visitors in the country.

“I cannot stress enough how serious this is. Every Fijian will be affected but we must take preventative steps now,” Bainimarama said.

Residents and businesses stocked up on food and put up shutters to protect shops and offices. Major roads have been closed and authorities are warning that bridges could be swamped by flood waters.

Schools throughout the country were also being used as evacuation centers, with authorities saying more than 3,500 people had sought shelter by late on Monday.

AP Photo/Evan Vucci

President Barack Obama pauses as he delivers a speech during an interfaith vigil for the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, at Newtown High School in Newtown, Conn. A gunman walked into the elementary school on Friday and opened fire, killing 26 people, including 20 children. killed in one of the worst mass shootings in America’s history.

In Newtown and elsewhere, mourners gently piled notes, stuffed animals and American flags, balloons and flowers, in makeshift memorials where candles fluttered.

New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz played wearing a shoe that read “R.I.P. Jack Pinto” in black marker, an homage to a child slain in the massacre.

Flags from coast to coast flew at half-staff. As the president’s motorcade climbed the hill up the school, he could glimpse a few homes with Christmas lights -- but most were dark.

“Here in Newtown, I come to offer the love and prayers of a nation,” the president said. “I am very mindful that mere words cannot match the depths of your sorrow, nor can they heal your wounded hearts.”

REUTERS/Fiji Ministry of Information/Handou

Strong waves caused by Cyclone Evan wash a beach in Queen Elizabeth Drive, in Suva in this handout picture taken December 17, 2012.

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

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INDONESIA Police shoot dead fugitive linked to Wamena bombings Antara

JAYAPURA - Police on Sunday shot dead Hubert Mabel wanted for his alleged part in the bombing of district legislative body building and traffic police post in the Jajawijaya district capital of Wamena, Papua province.

Police officers shot Hubert on his right and left legs and chest as he tried to run away and snatch firearms from them, head of the Papua provincial police`s public relations service Adj. Snr. Comr. Gede Sumerta said on Sunday night.

By Sunday night his body was still kept at the Wamena regional general hospital, he said.

Hubert was also suspected of involvement in the attack on Pirime police precinct in Lanny Jaya district which killed three police officers.

The police tried to arrest Hubert after

on Friday (Dec 14) they arrested WJ on charges of carrying ammunition, Gede Sumerta said.

Before being shot dead, police officers with the help of WJ phoned Hubert to meet on Abusak street in Kurulu area.

At the meeting, Hubert was accompanied by his four colleagues armed with machetes.

The police asked Hubert and colleagues to surrender but they refused.

Instead, they attacked the police officers who later opened fire at Hubert, he said.

Anti-graft commission summons Djoko again Antara

JAKARTA - The Commission Eradication Commission (KPK) has once again summoned Insp. Gen. Djoko Susilo, a suspect in a corruption case involving the procurement of driving simulators for the National Police Traffic Corps in 2011.

“The investigation has not yet touched on the substance of the matter. He will be questioned as a suspect today,” a lawyer of Djoko said at the KPK building here on Monday.

Djoko`s questioning on Monday would be for the third time since he was named a suspect, but the first since he was held at the KPK detention house in the Guntur Jakarta Military Command`s (Kodam Jaya) Military Police Detachment.

On Thursday (December 13), he was questioned as a witness for another suspect, Brig. Gen. Didik Purnomo, the deputy head of the Traffic Police Corps.

Djoko arrived at the KPK building at 10.30 am, wearing a batik shirt that read “KPK Detainee.”

The former chief of the Traffic Police Corps headed straight to the KPK building without giving any statement to the press.

The KPK named him as a suspect on July 27, together with Brig Gen Didik, Budi Susanto, the president director of PT Citra Mandiri Metalindo Abadi (CMMA), the company which won the driving simulators` procurement tender, and Sukotjo S Bamang, the director of PT Inovasi Teknology Indonesia, a sub-contractor of CMMA. Sukotjo S Bambang was sentenced to 2.5 years in jail and is held at a detention centre in Kebon Waru, Bandung, West Java. He was prosecuted in a separate case for marking up the value of the project.

According to KPK data, the case has caused the state losses of between Rp100 billion and Rp196.8 billion.

(FOTO ANTARA/Widodo S. Jusuf)

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (2 right) installed Vice Admiral Marsetyo as the new Navy commander and Vice Marshal Ida Bagus Putu Dunia as the new Air Force chief here on Monday.

President installs new navy, air force chiefs Antara

JAKARTA - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono installed Vice Admiral Marsetyo as the new Navy commander and Vice Marshal Ida Bagus Putu Dunia as the new Air Force chief here on Monday.

The two military officers were installed based on Presidential Decision No. 78/TNI/2012 which was signed on December 14, 2012.

The induction ceremony was held the State Palace and was attended by House Speaker Marzuki Alie, Indonesian Defense Forces Commander Admiral Agus Suhartono, National Police Chief General Timur Pradopo, Army Chief Gen Pramono Edhie Wibowo, outgoing chief of the Air Force Imam Syufaat, outgoing chief of the

Navy Admiral Soeparno, Attorney General Basrief Arief and First Lady Mme Ani Yudhoyono.

Outgoing chief of the Air Force Imam Syufaat and outgoing chief of the Navy Admiral Soeparno will retire.

A number of ministers who also attended the function included Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Djoko Suyanto, Chief Economic Minister Hatta Rajasa, Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa, Minister/State Secretary Sudi Silalahi, Jakarta Governor Joko Widodo and a number of other senior state officials.

Previously, Vice Marshal Ida Bagus Putu Dunia was commander of TNI Staff and Command School while Vice Marshal Marsetyo was deputy chief of the Air Force.

Nuclear technology has long been developed in Indonesia

Antara

TANAH LAUT - Nuclear technology has long been developed in Indonesia but the public still focuses on its potential negative impact, according to National Nuclear Energy Agency (Batan) researcher Haryanto.

“Indonesia has developed nuclear technology for a long time, and the people have enjoyed its benefits in the health and agriculture sector, but they continue to focus on its negative aspects,” he said here on Monday.

“When they think of nuclear technology, they only think about the atom bomb attack

in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, or the leakage of Fukhusima nuclear reactor in Japan,” Haryanto noted.

“But nuclear technology has contributed significantly to agricultural development in our country,” he said, adding that nuclear technology had been used in Indonesia`s agricultural sector for a long time.

Haryanto pointed out that a variety of rice seeds were produced in Batan with the help of nuclear technology.

“It is also being widely used in the health and industrial sectors of Indonesia,” he added.

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International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Bali News

International

BUSINESS

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Indonesia wants sustainable development included in post-MDGs

Chinese leaders promise reform, spending if needed Associated Press

AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File

In this Nov. 16, 2012, file photo, President Barack Obama acknowledges House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio while speaking to reporters in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, as he hosted a meeting of the bipartisan, bicameral leadership of Congress to discuss the deficit and economy.

Movement seen in ‘fiscal cliff’ talks Associated Press

WASHINGTON — There has finally been some movement in long-stalled talks on avoiding the “fiscal cliff,” as the top Republican in Congress has offered to bend on raising taxes on some wealthy earners — though not as many as President Barack Obama wants, and only in exchange for cuts to popular benefit programs cherished by Democrats.

But as details emerged of the first offer

by House of Representatives Speaker John Boehner to increase tax rates, some optimism bloomed in Washington just as time is running out before Congress adjourns.

Tax rates on all workers go up when Bushera cuts expire in January, and $109 billion worth of automatic across-the-board spending cuts begin to take effect then as well.

Taken together with the expiration of extended jobless benefits and a 2-percentage-point break in Social Security pension taxes, the combination of austerity steps threatens to send the economy back into recession.

Under that cloud, a long impasse between Boehner and Obama ended Friday when the speaker offered $1 trillion in higher tax revenue over 10 years and an increase in the top tax rate on people making more than $1 million a year. He’s also offering a large enough extension in the federal government’s borrowing cap to fund it for one year before the issue must be revisited — conditioned on Obama agreeing to the $1 trillion in spending cuts.

The movement comes as an increasing

number of Republicans have called for a tactical retreat that would hand Obama a victory on his longstanding campaign promise to raise taxes on households making more than $250,000 a year in order to rein in deficit spending without hurting the middle class. That increase, combined with an increase in the tax rate on investment income from 15 percent to 20 percent, would raise about $800 billion in tax revenue over a decade.

Boehner’s offer calls for about $450 billion in revenue from increasing the top rate on million-dollar-plus income from 35 percent to the Clinton-era rate of 39.6 percent. The additional revenue required to meet Boehner’s $1 trillion target would be collected through a rewrite of the tax code next year and by slowing the inflation adjustments made to tax brackets.

In return, Boehner is asking for $1 trillion in spending cuts from government benefit programs like Medicare, the federal health care program for the elderly. Those cuts would defer most of a painful set of across-the-board spending cuts set to slash many domestic programs and the defense

budget by 8-9 percent, starting in January.

Boehner’s proposal was described Sunday by officials familiar with it. They required anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks.

Boehner also continues to press for a less generous inflation adjustment for Social Security pension benefits, a move endorsed by many budget hawks. Obama and Democrats on a deficit “supercommittee” endorsed the idea in offers made last year, but they’re more reluctant now.

The burst of optimism is tempered by the caution that the remaining steps to reaching a deal — particularly how much to cut Medicare and whether to impose the new, less generous inflation adjustment to Social Security pensions — are difficult. Then comes the job of selling it to a polarized Congress, where Republican conservatives have been railing against higher tax rates for months as a sure way to kill jobs and hurt small business, and Democrats have taken a harder line against cost cuts to Medicare.

But it appears clear there is momentum as White House and congressional aides worked through the weekend.

BEIJING — China’s new Communist Party leaders are promising reforms aimed at reducing reliance on exports and more spending if needed to prop up a shaky economic recovery.

In the first statement of their economic goals since taking power in November, the new party leaders pledged continuity Sunday with longterm plans aimed at nurturing self-sustaining growth and raising incomes. There was no indication of plans for major changes or new stimulus.

They promised to support domestic consumption, the growth of small businesses that generate jobs and more migration by rural residents into expanding cities to find better-paid jobs.

The new party general secretary, Xi Jinping, and other leaders are under pressure to overhaul an economic model based on exports and investment that delivered three decades of rapid growth but is running out of steam. Companies and political analysts are watching to see how far they are willing to go in remodeling the state-dominated economy.

In the shorter term, they also need to keep a recovery from China’s deepest economic downturn since the 2008 global crisis on track.

Party leaders promised a “proactive fiscal policy” and “prudent monetary policy” in a statement distributed by the official Xinhua News Agency at the end of a two-day annual planning meeting. That refers to willingness to boost government spending if needed and to keep credit easy so long as inflation stays low.

The world’s second-largest economy is limping out of the slump that pushed growth to a three-and-a-half-year low of 7.4 percent in the latest quarter but weak November trade data suggested the rebound might be faltering.

The World Bank and other analysts say Beijing needs to curb dominant state companies and promote service industries and consumer spending to keep incomes rising. They say without prompt action, growth might slow abruptly, leaving China stuck at middle-income levels.

Possible reforms face potential opposition from state companies that might see their privileges diminished and have influential allies in the party.

“If China does not change its strategy, it risks falling into the ‘middle income trap’,” Robert Zoellick, former World Bank president, said in a speech at a Beijing business conference last week. In a tacit acknowledgement of possible obstacles, Sunday’s statement said change would require “greater political courage and wisdom.” The new leadership promised to “accelerate structural reform,” open markets further and encourage efficiency, though they gave no details of possible changes. It said “enhancing quality and efficiency of economic growth” will be a “central task.”

Antara

IBP/Widana

The plan of central government through the Ministry of Education and Culture to remove the local language subject such as Balinese language in 2013 and combines it into the curriculum of the arts and cultural subject reaps rejection from hundreds of students and lecturers from several universities in Bali.

Hundreds of students rally

Reject the omission of Balinese language in curriculum 2013 Bali Post

DENPASAR - The plan of central government through the Ministry of Education and Culture to remove the local language subject such as Balinese language in 2013 and combines it into the curriculum of the arts and cultural subject reaps rejection from hundreds of students and lecturers from several universities in Bali. Those coalesced into the members of the Alliance of Balinese Language Care held a rally to Bali House on Friday (Dec 14) and demanded to maintain the Balinese language in the curriculum.

Such action involved the state and private universities in Bali, including the State Hindu Dharma Institute (IHDN) of Denpasar, Dwijendra University and PGRI Bali Teacher’s Training College. Aside from hundreds of students, some lectures from several campuses in Bali, humanists cultural and other Balinese public figures also joined the action. The demonstrators were willing to wait for the legislators that were still holding a plenary session in the Main Meeting Hall of the Bali House. Ultimately, they were received by Chairman of Commission IV of the Bali House, Nyoman Parta, accompanied by several legislators and the Head of Bali Education Agency, AA Ngurah Sujaya.

A lecturer from IHDN Denpasar, Wayan Sugita, who joined the student group, said the new curriculum in 2013 would merge the Balinese language subject into the package of the counter-productive Art and Cultural

Sciences. He considered there was a strong political element behind the enforcement of such curriculum.

With the merger of local languages into the subject of the arts and culture, local languages in the archipelago, especially the ones belonging to the minority ethnic, would disappear from our beloved homeland. Another threat was the graduates of Balinese language and literature would lose out their job opportunities because schools no longer taught Balinese language as independent subject. Moreover, the languages of the archipelago were the sources of the Indonesian culture. “If local languages are getting extinct by degrees because of such pro-majority policy curriculum, sooner or later the cultural diversity of Indonesia will be extinct,” he said.

Chairman of Commission IV of the Bali House, Nyoman Parta, said that his party agreed in order the Balinese language sub-

ject should not be removed from the new curriculum. He would continue to oversee the aspiration to central government by immediately asking the substance underlying the merger of local language subject into the art and culture. “On December 20, we will go to Jakarta and seriously continue to oversee the aspirations because the local language is starting to get a challenge,” he said.

The Head of Bali Education Agency, AA Ngurah Sujaya, conveyed that from the absorption of aspiration performed Bali Province remained to reject the removal of Balinese language subject from the curriculum. Bali had owned a Bylaw No.3/1992 governing about the protection of Balinese language. To that end, Balinese language should be taught in every level of education.

“We have told the minister and will keep fighting. Balinese language is our culture so that to preserve the local culture is obligatory,” he pleaded. (kmb29)

NUSA DUA - The Indonesian government wants sustainable development to be included in the Post-2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), after the current MDGs expire in 2015, said an Indonesian official.

Sustainable development should involve all the stakeholders, with emphasis on environmental preservation and economic growth with equity, Chairman of the Indonesian National Committee on the Post-2015 Development Agenda Kuntoro Mangkusubroto told the press, after the opening speech by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in Regional Meeting and Stakeholder Consultation on the Post-2015 Development Agenda.

This way, the benefits of development will not just be enjoyed by a small group of people, he said.

“We should look into sustainable development after 2015. It is in line with the MDGs, decided by 147 member countries of the United Nations in 2000,” he said.

The two-day meeting (December 13 and 14) was attended by 213 delegations from 19 countries (in the Asia-Pacific region).

“They shared several ideas with the president that can be included in the Post-2015 MDGs,” Mangkusubroto said.

Poses challenges Cooperation in technology between developing and developed countries remains a challenge to achieving the global warming and global development targets set in the Post-2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), according to an Indonesian official.

“Technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have been developed by advanced nations. Developing countries also need such technologies. Should they have pay a lot for that? It’s one of the examples,” said Mangkusubroto.

He stated that cooperation between developing and developed countries must be improved.

Mangkusobroto pointed out that advanced nations were not doing enough to address global warming concerns despite having the technologies to reduce carbon emissions.

“However, we have noticed a positive change in the United States lately. In the absence of a formal commitment, the country has managed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by around 20 percent. But with the help of the latest technologies, they should have been able to cut the emissions much more,” he added.

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Queue up to three kilometers in Gilimanuk

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IBP/File

Feeder route of Sarbagita designed to use subscription The Trans Sarbagita bus is seen while loading up passengers

Denpasar (Bali Post) -

In the upcoming year 2013, the urban public transport functioned as feeder route for Trans Sarbagita of Corridor I Denpasar will be designed to apply subscription ticket. In addition, this public transportation will also be rejuvenated in an effort to arouse public interest to use the transport services. Unit Head of the Land Transport Services, Denpasar Transportation Agency, Dewa Ketut Adi Pradnyana, revealed the matter on Sunday (Dec 16).

According to Adi Pradnyana, the ticket subscription was still in formulation and would be implemented in the first two months of 2013. “Now, we are still performing technical studies. In practice, if there will be passengers using up to five times in a week, they will be probably given a free ticket,” he said.

He added the ticket subscription

system was still under review and survey to further stabilize the plan.

His party also planned the taking of ticket would be designed like taking a queue at bank. “Therefore, passengers just need to press a button,” he explained. To lure the public interest to use the transport services, we will also implement a lottery system namely by submitting a ticket for the next drawing,”

he said.

He said such an endeavor was taken to reduce the number of traffic jams caused by the excessive use of private vehicles in Denpasar.

Equally important, his party also planned to rejuvenate the vehicle in 2014. “For the time being, the number of vehicles will not be added and still use the existing 56 units,” he said.

Every day, he said, the number of passenger was considered quite significant where the average number per day reached 1,500. Of the four existing feeder routes (TP), the TP 2 serving the route to Sunrise Beach, Sanur and Sanglah Denpasar was the most favored by passengers.

“For four months, the number of passengers carried has reached 125,000. Hopefully, more passengers will use the transportation service next year. Therefore, the use of private vehicle will reduce and traffic congestion can be minimized. Ahead of the yearend, we will also continue to evaluate,” he said. (kmb13)

Waste production high, compost production still low Singaraja (Bali Post) -

Every day Buleleng Regency produces averagely 1,950.71 cubic meters of waste. Of that amount, 87.25 percent is organic waste that can be further processed into compost. However, the compost processing seems to have not run maximally so that many wastes remain to pile up in vain.

Information obtained on Sunday (Dec 16) mentioned the compost generated by the integrated waste processing installation (TPST) at

Jagaraga village, Sawan subdistrict, could only produce 50 tons of compost per year whereas the amount of waste sent to the TPST was quite a lot. To that end, the Buleleng Regency continued to make efforts to build additional TPST in order more organic waste could be processed into compost.

The Head of Buleleng Sanitation and Landscaping Agency (DKP), Ida Bagus Ketut Swarjana, admitted the production of waste in Buleleng was very high. More-

over, the population of Buleleng continued to grow each year so that waste production also increased.

According to him, 87.25 percent of the production coming to 1,950.71 cubic meters was organic waste.

The rest was inorganic waste such as plastic (6.42 percent), paper (2.77 percent), cloth (2.43 percent), tin (0.23 percent), bottles (0.23 percent), rubber (0.23 percent) and iron (0.11 percent.

To overcome the problem of abundant waste, his party continued

to build TPST so the waste processing could be carried out closer to the source of waste itself. According to him, his party established a TPST in 2009 by state fund in Kubutambahan. Besides, four similar installations were also built using Special Allocation Fund (DAK) in Tejakula, Pemaron, Banyupoh and Tukadmungga. Meanwhile, the other two installations were located in Busungbiu and Seririt used to produce compost from organic waste at once. “With the TPST

scattered in several subdistricts in Buleleng, we expect more composts can be produced to slightly help farmers, especially in the provision of fertilizer,” he said.

Swarjana added that all the TPST installations had worked with the Association of Farmer Group (Gapoktan) in Buleleng, especially in terms of the compost distribution. With such effective waste management, Swarjana hoped the waste problem in Buleleng could be tackled early. (kmb15)

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Russian opposition fights to stay relevant Associated Press Writer

Negara (Bali Post) –

Hundreds of goods vehicles that were about to cross to Banyuwangi, East Java, trapped at Gilimanuk since Saturday (15/12) evening as the queue reached up to the woods or around three kilometers from the harbor. The truck drivers that were trapped stated that they have been trapped in traffic jam since in Tabanan while Gilimanuk was filled with between province busses, travel busses and goods vehicles starting from 7 pm local time. Up to 10 pm the queue reached 2 kilometers so then the queue were separated, direct trucks without going through Post I instead through Post KTP which is a shortcut to the goods vehicles ship. Those truck drivers were stuck at Bajra, Tabanan and Gilimanuk. “It took me three to four hours to be able going in the harbor,” a driver stated on Sunday (16/12) morning which the queue is still long.

Meanwhile Gilimanuk management (ASDP) has prepared 15 goods vehicles ships (LCT) also 14 passengers ships (KMP). Due to tiredness those truck drivers stopped driving and slept for a night causing those stationary trucks passed by other vehicles.

The queue started to calm by 9 am local time. Gilimanuk ASDP Operational Manager, Wahyudi Susianto, stated the queue happened due to the amount of trucks that came in the same time were a lot. (kmb26)

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

IBP/ap

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, leaves after attending a national meeting of top party and military officials on the eve of the first anniversary of the death of his late father Kim Jong Il.

North Koreans mourn Kim Jong Il 1 year later Associated Press Writer

PYONGYANG, North Korea — North Koreans across the country stopped in their tracks at midday Monday to silently honor former ruler Kim Jong Il, whose death one year ago swept his untested 20something son to power.

Pyongyang construction workers took off their yellow hard hats and bowed at the waist as sirens wailed across the city for three minutes. The son, Kim Jong Un, presided over a solemn ceremony to reopen the sprawling granite mausoleum where his father’s embalmed remains will lie in state near those of his grandfather, the nation’s founder Kim Il Sung.

Tens of thousands of North Koreans gathered in the frigid plaza outside the renovated hall where Kim Jong Il’s body was to go on public display later Monday. Lined with snow-tinged firs, the square has been turned into a park at Kim Jong Un’s orders and his father’s portrait installed on the building’s façade alongside that of Kim Il Sung.

The elder Kim died last Dec. 17 from a heart attack while traveling on his train. His death was famously followed by scenes of North Koreans dramatically wailing in the streets of Pyongyang, and of his pudgy young

son leading ranks of uniformed and gray-haired officials through a series of funeral and mourning rites.

The mood in the capital was decidedly more upbeat a year later, with some of the euphoria carrying over from last week’s successful launch of a rocket carrying a satellite named for one of Kim Jong Il’s many titles, Kwangmyongsong, or “Lode Star,” a nickname given to him at birth according to the official lore.

Speaking outside the mausoleum, renamed the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the military’s top political officer, Choe Ryong Hae, said North Korea should be proud of the satellite, calling it a show of strength to the world.

Much of the rest of the world, however, was swift in condemning the launch, which was seen by the United States and other nations as a thinly disguised cover for testing missile technology that could someday be used for a nuclear warhead.

The test, which potentially violates

a United Nations ban on North Korean missile activity, underlined Kim Jong Un’s determination to continue carrying out his father’s hardline policies even if they draw international condemnation.

Some outside experts worry that Pyongyang’s next move will be to press ahead with a nuclear test in the coming weeks, a necessary next step toward building a warhead small enough to be carried by a long-range missile.

Despite inviting further isolation for his impoverished nation and the threat of stiffer sanctions, Kim Jong Un won national prestige and clout by going ahead with the rocket launch.

At a memorial service on Sunday, North Korea’s top leadership not only eulogized Kim Jong Il, but also praised his son. Kim Yong Nam, president of the Presidium of North Korea’s parliament, called the launch a “shining victory” and an emblem of the promise that lies ahead with Kim Jong Un in power.

MOSCOW - Speaking to more than 100,000 protesters who thronged a Moscow street last December, charismatic anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny said Russia’s opposition had mustered “enough people to take the Kremlin.”

A year on, the movement that shocked Vladimir Putin’s regime and galvanized huge numbers of ordinary Russians is at an impasse. After a weekend rally to mark its first anniversary only attracted a few thousand protesters, opposition leaders met to figure out where they go from here.

“We are seeing a certain weariness. People had hoped for a quick result,” prominent opposition figure Ilya Yashin said during Sunday’s meeting. “But it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon.”

Since Putin easily won a third presidential term in March, the opposition has struggled to maintain any momentum or direction. Attendance at rallies has consistently ebbed. The Kremlin, meanwhile, has gone on the offensive, pushing through repressive new laws aimed at severely restricting opposition activity.

Opposition leaders and ordinary activists alike face criminal charges that could see them spend 10 years in prison. The euphoria of last winter’s irreverent and mostly middle-class protest movement has been replaced with a lingering sense of powerlessness and despair. Two thirds of Russians are “disenchanted” with Putin’s government, according to an October study by the Center for Strategic Research, a Kremlin-connected think tank, suggesting discontent goes far beyond supporters of the opposition.

Ratings for hagiographical TV specials detailing Putin’s daily life and public relations stunts have plummeted by two thirds, said Anton Krasovsky, a TV producer and political consultant. “People are tired of the same old agenda,” he said. “The country needs new heroes.” The opposition, however, has struggled to convert that discontent into support. Refusing to try to challenge Putin directly in the presidential election or develop a political program, conscious decisions intended to widen the opposition’s appeal, now looks like a tactical mistake. A poll released by the independent Levada Center last week found that 58 percent of Russians thought the protest movement had failed to change the situation in the country for the better.

None of its leaders had an approval rating higher than 3 percent.

“If you want to win support from the broadest sectors of society possible, you have to show that you’re an acceptable alternative, that you can be trusted behind the wheel,” Vladimir Milov, a former deputy energy minister now in opposition, wrote in a column on the Russian news site Gazeta.ru. “But since you spent time on nonsense instead of taking the fight to him, that’s why Putin’s the president.” Putin has belittled the opposition, saying it lacks leaders and “always demands the impossible and then never does anything.”

IBP/ap

Police officers detain opposition activists during an unauthorized rally in Lubyanka Square in Moscow, Russia, Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012.

After landslide, Abe says Japan has difficult road

Associated Press Writer

TOKYO - After leading his conservative party to a landslide victory that will bring it back to power after a three-year hiatus, Shinzo Abe stressed Monday that the road ahead will not be easy as he tries to revive Japan’s sputtering economy and bolster its national security amid deteriorating

relations with China.

The Liberal Democratic Party, which led Japan for most of the postWorld War II era until it was dumped as the economy fizzled in 2009, won 294 seats in the 480-seat lower house of parliament in Sunday’s nationwide elections, according to media reports.

Official results were expected later Monday. With the elections over, a

vote among the members of parliament to install the new prime minister is expected as soon as Dec. 25. Abe, who was prime minister from 20062007, is almost certain of winning that vote because the LDP now holds the majority in the lower house.

“We won more seats than even we expected,” Abe, 58, said Monday. “We have a very heavy responsibility.”

Outgoing Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda announced his resignation late Sunday, calling the election results “severe” and acknowledging his party failed to live up to the nation’s high expectations. His Democratic Party of Japan reportedly won only 57 seats.

Among its casualties were eight Cabinet ministers — the most lost in an election since World War II.

Economic issues, including plans to raise taxes and other measures to bolster Japan’s underperforming economy, were the top concerns among voters. Abe, who would be Japan’s seventh prime minister in 6 1/2 years, will likely push for increased public works spending and lobby for stronger moves by the central bank to break Japan out of its deflationary trap.

14

Technology

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

International

Apple’s iPhone 5 starts strong in China but shares pressured Reuters

Apple Inc said it sold more than 2 million of its new iPhone 5 in China during the three days after its launch there on Friday, marking China’s best-selling iPhone rollout ever. But the highly anticipated release in China, Apple’s second-biggest market, has not eased worries about stiffer competition in smartphones that are driving a slide in the share price of the world’s most valuable technology company.

Apple shares fell 3.8 percent on Friday to $509.79 after the iPhone 5’s China debut, while Citi Research downgraded Apple’s stock late on Sunday to “neutral” from “buy” and lowered Apple’s price target to $575 from $675, citing diminishing hype around the iPhone 5 and improving competition in smartphones.

Apple’s latest iPhone made its global debut with a launch in the United States and 30 other countries in September, selling more than 5 million in its first three days on the market.

“Customer response to iPhone 5 in China has been incredible, setting a new record with the best first weekend sales ever in China,” Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said in a statement.

This is the first time Apple has announced China sales numbers for the iPhone. Analysts say

Apple’s longer-term outlook in the China market, however, may hinge on expanding its partners in that country to include China Mobile Ltd, the country’s top telecoms carrier.

REUTERS/Stringer

An employee cleans an advertisement plate at an Apple dealership on the eve of iPhone 5’s release, in Wuhan, Hubei province December 13, 2012.

Japanese women enamored of “Mr Right” love game apps Reuters

TOKYO - After being saved from kidnapping, you discover you’re the daughter of the prime minister and your life is in imminent danger. You are introduced to a handful of handsome bodyguards, and must decide who you want to protect you 24 hours a day.

That’s the scenario for one of several role-playing “love games” currently popular in Japan, allowing women to safely spend time with their choice of Mr. Right without actually dealing with a live person even as marriage rates in Japan fall.

“In the game, you’re the lone woman, and the attention of all the guys is on you,” said “han-kura,” a 37-year-old office worker who uses that alias on a blog dedicated to these games.

The role-playing games are based on characters typical of Japanese manga comics, with all the men slender and elegant. The player becomes the heroine and chooses an ideal mate from several

“knight in shining armor” characters, developing a relationship through the choices they make in the storyline.

The games, which can be played on smart phones, are especially popular with working single women in their 30s who feel they don’t have the time or energy for a real relationship due to their demanding work schedule, said Kana Shimada, a novelist who writes about modern women and relationships.

“It may be virtual, but if it’s ‘a boyfriend from a game,’ then you can enjoy it whenever you want,” said Shimada. “The games that make you feel the ups and downs of a real relationship have all the elements to get women hooked.”

The video game industry has always had a strong male following, but it seems to have found a way to finally capitalize on female users. The sector based on such love simulation games grew by 30.4% with 14.6 billion yen ($177.3 million) in sales in 2011, according to Yano Research Institute.

Twitter offered Instagram $525 million deal: report Reuters

SAN FRANCISCO - Weeks before he accepted a $1 billion offer from Facebook Inc, Instagram CEO Kevin Systrom had verbally agreed to sell his photosharing company to Twitter Inc for $525 million in March - but then called off the deal, according to a New York Times report citing unnamed sources.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg ultimately acquired Instagram after pushing through a cash-and-stock deal just weeks before Facebook’s May initial public offering. The transaction closed in September at a $715 million valuation, reflecting Facebook’s stock drop since the offering.

During negotiations with Instagram, Twitter executives had handed Systrom a term sheet outlining the details of the proposed deal, the Times reported, but Systrom later told California

state regulators under oath that his company had not received any “formal offers or term sheets” from potential buyers aside from Facebook.

Relations between Twitter, Instagram and Facebook have soured since Facebook successfully swooped for the photo service. Earlier this month Instagram shut off a functionality that allowed Twitter to display Instagram pictures, while Twitter introduced its own photo colorfilters to compete with Instagram.

A spokeswoman for Facebook declined comment. Twitter could not be immediately reached for comment.

REUTERS/Luke MacGregor

Instagram co-founder and CEO Kevin Systrom, speaks during a Q&A session at LeWeb 2012 in London June 19, 2012.

Bali News

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

3

Illegal money changer becomes classic problem over 10 years Bali Post

DENPASAR - Money laundering crimes recently kept increasing so that it consequently worried various parties, including the banking sector. The ‘field’ considered reasonably susceptible is used by perpetrators to launch their action such as foreign exchange trading that has been pretty much spread in the community.

IBP/Net

Tourists pass a money changer vendor in Kuta, Bali Island. The data of the Association of Foreign Exchange Traders (APVA), the number of illegal money changer in Bali reached approximately 200 units, where most of which were in tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua and Sanur, Denpasar.

Unfortunately, it has not been found any solutions for the rampant illegal money changers lasting over 10 years. Even, from the data of the Association of Foreign Exchange Traders (APVA), the number of illegal money changer in Bali reached approximately 200 units, where most of which were in tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua and Sanur, Denpasar. “We worry about the actions committed by those illegal money changers will have an impact on the official and authorized money changer. By all means, their fraudulent action will harm the image of Bali tourism. Necessarily, the tourism businesspeople are not only required to provide security and comfort for tourists coming to Bali, but also honesty,” said the

former Head of the APVA Bali for the tenure of 2008-2012, Made Sudarsa.

Moreover, he said, from the survey, money changer belonged to top three of the ten problems or obstacles that could tarnish Bali aside from the matter of waste, congestion and so on. “Without being resolved, the ten problems will give bad image to Bali tourism. So far, the Bali tourism always increases in terms of quantity but not quality,” he said.

He indeed acknowledged that perpetrators of illegal money changer businesses had been frequently disciplined, but such an effort had not been optimal. “If any of our authorized members commit a fraud and it has been proved, we definitely recommend Bank Indonesia to revoke the li-

cense. Since they (illegal money changers) are not our members, of course we cannot take action pursuant to our organizational bylaws,” he explained.

In response to the problem of illegal money changers having lasted nearly over 10 years, the APVA even had urged Bank Indonesia to enforce a moratorium to new permit of foreign exchange trader as of January 2013 until the establishment of good governance of conducive and standardized foreign exchange trading industry. To make a healthier foreign exchange industry, the APVA wished there were more intensive communication with Bank Indonesia, including encouraging the issuance of the Act specifically setting forth the foreign exchange business. (kmb28)

Anticipation of bird flu

Poultry sold cheaply, smuggling still rampant Recent new bird flu case killing hundreds of thousands of ducks in Central Java, East Java and West Java potentially spreads to Bali.

The newly discovered bird flu virus is reported to be highly malignant and first discovered in Indonesia.

Bali having a great market potential of poultry still depends on outside region because of profit factor. The price of poultry in Bali is more expensive than in Java. On the other hand, the government, through Gubernatorial Regulation No.44/2005 expressly prohibits the delivery or entry of poultry to Bali except for poultry hatchling.

Such condition allows the smuggling from Java. Even, there is always a poultry smuggling effort to Bali every month. The delivery is not only carried out through large ports such as Gilimanuk, but also through traditional port that is difficult to monitor. From the data of the Integrated Agricultural Quarantine (KPT) of Gilimanuk, the officers could foil the smuggling of poultry and other prohibited animals almost every month. Not long ago, the KPT also arrested hundreds of ducks transported in two pick-ups. The perpetrator accidentally smothered

the duck’s beak with a rubber to trick the officers, but it was finally uncovered when examined.

Supervisor of the KPT Gilimanuk, Nyoman Budiarta, said it was difficult to break the chain of smuggling. The economic factor was dominant so that perpetrators ignored the health factor of the smuggled animals. The KPT Gilimanuk admitted that it had prevented, secured and eliminated hundreds of smuggled poultry from Java every month.

From January through April 2012, there were 1,021 poultry (chicken and Muscovy duck) eliminated. Budiarta said there was always a smuggling effort with different modes every month. Most smuggling cases did not involve the owner of poultry in person. They speculatively used a courier service. By and large, they commended it to container trucks or public buses. “We always make coordination with other agencies such as the Marine Police and Mobile Brigade at the examination post,” explained Budiarta.

According to him, the officials were always vigilant whether there was bird flu case or not by examining any suspicious thing using

the existing device. For instance, CCTV was used to observe the roof of truck. Nevertheless, such an effort could not cut the smuggling case to zero.

Other than relying on the vehicle examination at Gilimanuk, so far the KPT also received information from informants in East Java. The informant would tell if there was an attempt to bring in poultry to Bali.

Even, there was actually delivery of poultry every day, but it had been usually prevented in Banyuwangi or before crossing.

Meanwhile, from the observation held in Negara Market, traders admitted that some poultry for sale was brought in from Java. Every morning there were always birds delivered from Java and sold in the market with a vehicle having East Java’s license plate. It was very difficult to know who sent them and they would not confess if those chickens were smuggled.

Budiarta admitted if he ever heard the delivery through outside Gilimanuk Harbor. However, it was beyond the authority of KPT. “Our main tasks and function are in the harbor area, while beyond it is not our authority,” he explained. (kmb26)

AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati

German citizen Martin Robert Moller sits during a press conference in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia, on Monday, Dec. 17, 2012. Indonesian Customs in Bali said they arrested Moller on Dec. 14 allegedly attempting to smuggle 200 grams of hashish.

2

International

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Bali News

Bali Police arrest four suspects Denpasar (Bali Post)—

Hard work of the Bali Police dedicated team as well as county police across Bali to reveal the rampant effigy theft cases in recent years is finally paid off. Four suspects respectively with the initials IWD, IN, MP and KB were arrested one after another. Other than the four perpetrators, police also seized a number of items as evidence from the hands of the perpetrators.

Haryadi, his party could seize evidences like Nokia cellular phone, yarn of perforated coin binder, crowbar, screwdriver, flashlight, pliers and hammer. “The suspects and their evidences are secured in Bali Police,” he said.

Having arrested the four suspects, it did not necessarily mean if police had successfully uncovered the entire cases.

However, there were other jobs to be completed. On that account, Chief Harry Haryadi mentioned there were still other perpetrators at large. “We are still chasing the two other perpetrators with initial KS and A. Let’s pray in order they are quickly arrested,” he pleaded.

How is the preliminary result of the interrogation against the four suspects?

Chief Harry further explained they were desperate to steal the sanctified effigies in a number of temples on request of KS and A. Both perpetrators, whose location was unknown, had met IWD. “The meeting discussed about the temple becoming their target, which ones had coins and other valuables,” he explained.

Once the agreement was made, the suspect IWD immediately took action.

The first area targeted was Karangasem.

Three temples scattered in Karangasem were burglarized by the suspect IWD and gangs. After that, they targeted the other temples potentially retaining perforated coins, gold and others. After burglarizing some temples, the loots were sold to KS and A. Apparently, those perpetrators did not only steal effigies, but also kris dagger, ring and silver in the house of a villager named Lilis. “Proceeds of the loots were divided equally. After getting money, they used it to dissipate. For example, they get drunk and bet in cockfight,” said Chief Harry to media crews.

In order to clearly reveal the cases, his party remained to make further development. Chief Harry added the conclusion was that 16 of the 22 cases of effigy theft could have been revealed. “Seeing such numerous crime scenes, it is alleged the theft was not only committed by a syndicate, but also by individual perpetrators,” he added. (kmb21)

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

15

PHM Hospitality awarded ITTA 2012

Revealing sanctified effigy theft

“The four perpetrators have been declared as suspect,” said the Head of Sub Directorate III, Directorate of General Crime Detective of Bali Police, Harry Haryadi, accompanied by Spokesperson of Bali Police, Sri Harmiti, Sunday (Dec 16). He explained the four perpetrators consisting of the locals (Balinese—Ed) were still undergoing intensive interrogation.

Harry Haryadi explained the disclosure of the sanctified effigy theft was based on the number of reports to police station. Even, within the past two months, dozens of cases occurred.

Communities or pilgrims of temple in a number of areas in Bali complained if their temple was burglarized. Sanctified effigies stored in temple shrines were taken away by the perpetrators.

The rampant effigy theft made Bali Police Chief, Budi Gunawan, furious.

Moreover, many people asked and urged police to immediately reveal the cases of effigy theft. As a response, Bali Police Chief appointed a team. Even, the number one man in the Bali Police gave a 20-days deadline to his men.

However, ahead of the deadline the dedicated team managed to uncover the cases. After conducting an investigation and pursuit, a perpetrator (IWD—Ed) could be arrested at his home at Kises hamlet, Sidemen, Karangasem, Tuesday (Dec 11). “The suspect IWD was arrested at his home. He admitted to have burglarized a number of temples,” he said.

Confession of the suspect IWD made the investigator of the Directorate of General Crime Detective of Bali Police to make further examination. From confession of IWD, he was not committing the theft alone. There were other friends respectively with the initial IN, MP and KB. “We immediately take action based on confession of the suspect IWD. Then, a number of officers are ordered to spread,” he said.

During the three-day hunting, the three suspects could eventually be arrested around Badung region on Friday (Dec 14). They were arrested without resistance. Of the four suspects, said Harry

Activities

International

IBP/File

The suspects of the theft of effigies from temples throughout Bali are arrested by the police

Residents of Tanah Ampo reject land acquisition for port parking Amlapura (Bali Post)—

Residents of Tanah Ampo, Ulakan village, Manggis, stated to refuse their farmland acquisition for parking area expansion of the local cruise ship harbor. They refused it because they worried if their village land would run out and they would get displaced because there was no more land for settlement.

Rejection of the residents was justified by Chief of Tanah Ampo customary village, I Gede Suyadnya, Saturday (Dec 15). Suyadnya said his party had approached and given the understanding to them for three times through a village meeting.

“We’ve held a meeting for three times where regency government is going to make parking space in the paddy field in front of the cruise ship harbor. However, our residents refused to release the village land, fearing the village land will run out and they will get displaced and marginalized from their home village,” he said.

Ultimately, the residents held on their decision that they refused to release their fertile and beautiful paddy fields located among the hill ranges for the expansion of parking space.

Suyadnya said that rejection of residents was also based on consideration in which up to these days the cruise ship quay had not been completed and did not work. Formerly, it was tested where several cruise ships had dropped by, although anchoring at sea of Manggis. From the sea, the

tourists mostly consisting of the elderly were transferred to lifeboat and long enough rocking on lifeboat before reaching the quay.

Later on, there were even absolutely no cruise ships willing to anchor at sea of Tanah Ampo and no tourists came to Tanah Ampo. Instead, the cruise ships preferred to berth at Benoa Harbor because they considered it more secure.

He added that local residents wanted to release the paddy fields for the expansion of parking space of the cruise ship quay, where Karangasem Regency was willing to share 70 percent of the parking revenue with local village, while the 30 percent was for the government. However, residents through their representatives conveying their aspirations insisted on not releasing the farmland to be converted into parking space. “Indeed, our residents kept silent in the meeting. Their aspiration has been conveyed through several representatives. When asking their confirmation whether they agreed if their rice field was released for the parking space, all residents stated to disagree or refuse,” he said.

Suyadnya who was just elected the chief of customary village last year said that residents of Tanah Ampo village came to 160 active families.

Meanwhile, the remaining residents lived in the Diaspora. He added the customary village spread across 40 hectares, where the land partly belonged to village property. (03)

 Founder : K.Nadha,  General Manager :Palgunadi Chief Editor: Diah Dewi Juniarti  Editors: Gugiek Savindra,Alit Susrini, Alit Sumertha, Daniel Fajry, Mawa, Sri Hartini, Suana, Sueca, Sugiartha, Yudi Winanto Denpasar: Dira Arsana, Giriana Saputra, Subrata, Sumatika, Asmara Putra. Bangli: Pujawan, Buleleng: Adnyana, Gianyar: Agung Dharmada, Karangasem: Budana, Klungkung: Bali Putra Ariawan. Jakarta: Nikson, Hardianto, Ade Irawan. NTB: Agus Talino, Izzul Khairi, Raka Akriyani. Surabaya: Bambang Wilianto.  Development: Alit Purnata, Mas Ruscitadewi.  Office: Jalan Kepundung 67 A Denpasar 80232. Telephone (0361)225764, Facsimile: 227418, P.O.Box: 3010 Denpasar 80001. Bali Post Jakarta, Advertizing: Jl.Palmerah Barat 21F. Telp 021-5357602, Facsimile: 021-5357605 Jakarta Pusat. NTB: Jalam Bangau No. 15 Cakranegara Telp. (0370) 639543, Facsimile: (0370) 628257. Publisher: PT Bali Post

IBP

JAKARTA - Toward end of year 2012, PHM Hospitality completed this year with one award achievement as Indonesia Leading Hotel Chain for for 2012/2013.

The awards which been held by Indonesia Trav el Tourism Award (ITTA) Foundation are designed to appreciate the outstanding Indonesian hotels, resorts, villas, serviced apartments, travel agents, tour operators, amusement parks, airlines, airports, tourism boards, and destinations, who fulfill the quality and hospitality experience expectation as well as being models for the emerging travel industry. The recipients of the awards should prove as leading brands in the industry and has demonstrated exemplary service towards the customers.

The Judging process took 4 steps which consist of first

screening by ITTA Foundation, online voting (25 %), assessment from appointed education institute (25 %) as well as Qualitative & Quantitative judging by Board of Advisor (50%).

The Awards organizer received over 250 nominees to celebrate 42 category of award from Indonesia’s Travel / Tourism Industry.

The ITTA event is considered as one of the prestigious events in Indonesia tourism as attended by senior executives, decision makers from major travel companies, operators and destinations.

Mr. Kristian Kuntadi, Managing Director of PHM Hospitality says, “We are de-

lighted to receive the award as recognition of our hard work in delivering innovative and high quality product and service with maximum values for hotel and resorts in Indonesia. We do look forward continuing to build PHM Hospitality as the Preferred Indonesian Hospitality Management Company.”

PHM Hospitality has succeeded in managing the first two “happening” hotel brands, THE HAVEN Bali-Seminyak & THE 1O1 Bali-Legian, and just launching newly born brand, THE BnB, “The New Evolution of Urban Budget Hotel” opening soon at Kelapa Gading, Jakarta.

Calendar Event for December 12 through December 27, 2012 12 Des B uda Keliwon Ugu Pura Dalem Tarukan Banjar Pulasari Desa Peninjoan Tembuku - Bangli Pura Pasek Gelgel Boading Kabakaba Tabanan Pura Pemayun Banyuning T e n gah - Buleleng Pura Desa Kayangan Tiga Desa Bubunan Seririt - Buleleng Pura Agung Gunung Raung Banjar Taro Kaja Taro - Tegalalang Merajan Pasek Dangka Bungbungan 22 Des H ari Tumpek Wayang Pura Majapahit Jembrana Odalan Betara ratu Gede Celuk Sukawati Odalan Betara Ratu Wedyadari Camenggaon Sukawati Pura Panti Gelgel Pengembungan Sesetan Denpasar Betara Ratu Alit dan Ratu Lingsir Singakerta Ubud Pura Pedarmaan Dalem Sukawati B esakih Pura Pedarmaan Mengwi Besakih Pura Pedarmaan Kaba-kaba Besakih Pura Pedarmaan dalem Bakas Besakih Pura Dadia Agung Pasek Gelgel

Pegatepan Gelgel Klungkung Pura Pemrajan Agung Sulang Kec Dawan Klungkung Merajan Pasek Bendesa Kori Agung Pengatepan Pura Pedarmaan Dinasti dalem sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan P u r a Besakih (Dalem Klungkung) Pura Penataran Giri Purwa dan Pesraman Dusun Kuto Rejo Kendal Rejo Tegal Delimo Banyuangi 26 Des Buda Wage Kelawu Pura Penataran Agung Teluk Padang Karangasem Pura Melanting D esa Camenggaon Sukawati Pura Penataran Ped Nusa Penida Pura Pasek Gelgel Pangembungan Bongkase Abiansemal Pura Pasek Bendesa Reyang Gede Penebel Tabanan Pura Pasek Gelgel Br. Jawa Tengah Buleleng Pura Gaduhan Jagat Desa Singakerta Ubud Pura Masceti Tegeh Mancawarna Sanding Tampaksiring Pura Penataran Batu Lepang Kamasan Klungkung Pura Paibon Pasek Gelgel Gobleg Desa Kedonganan Kuta

Pura Goa Besakih Pura Basukian Besakih Penataran Agung Besakih Merajan Pasek Gelgel Pejeng Merajan Pasek Gelgel Songan Merajan Pasek Prateka Pekandelan Sidemen Merajan Pasek Prateka Taman Sari Sukasada Pura dadia Pasek Gelgel Sidemen Karangasem Merajan Pasek Gelgel Tampuagan, Tembuku, Bangli 27 Des Purnama Kepitu Pr. Benua Besakih.

Pura Dalem Desa Camenggaon - Sukawati Pura Suranadhi Lombok Pura Narmada Lombok Pura Segara Ampenan Lombok Mr Agung Dewa Agung Klungkung Ulah Sidemen Pura Gunungrene S i d e m e n Karangasem.

Merajan Pasek Gelgel Ababi Mr. Pasek gelgel Tista Pura Gunung Gunung - Tianyar Kubu - Karangasem Pura Pingit Klenting sari Banjar Sumberkelompok - Gerokgak Singaraja Pura Payogan Agung Kutai Kartanegara

Balinese Temple Ceremony Every Temple and Shrine has a special date for it annual Ceremony, or “ Odalan “, every 210 days according to Balinese calendar, including the smaller ancestral shrine which each family possesses. Because of this practically every few days a ceremony of festival of some kind takes place in some Village in Bali. There are also times when the entire island celebrated the same Holiday, such as at Galungan, Kuningan, Nyepi day, Saraswati day, Tumpek Landep day, Pagerwesi day, Tumpek Wayang day etc.

The dedication or inauguration day of a Temple is considered its birth day and celebration always takes place on the same day if the wuku or 210 day calendar is used. When new moon is used then the celebration always happens on new moon or full moon. The day of course can differ the religious celebration of a temple lasts at least one full day with some temple celebrating for three days while the celebration of Besakih temple, the Mother Temple, is never less than 7 days and most of the time it lasts for 11 days, depending on the importance of the occasion.

The celebration is very colorful. The shrine are dressed with pieces of cloths and sometimes with brocade, sailings, decorations of carved wood and sometimes painted with gold and Chinese coins, very beautifully arranged, are hung in the four corners of the shrine. In front of shrine are placed red, white or black umbrellas depending which Gods are worshipped in the shrines.

In front of important shrine one sees, besides these umbrellas soars, tridents and other weapons, the “umbulumbul”, long flags, all these are prerogatives or attributes of Holiness. In front of the Temple gate put up “Penjor”, long bamboo poles, decorated beautifully ornaments of young coconut leaves, rice and other products of the land.

Most beautiful to see are the girls in their colorful attire, carrying offerings, arrangements of all kinds fruits and colored cakes, to the Temple. Every visitor admires the grace with which the carry their load on their heads.

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

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Price: Rp 3.000,-

Entertainment

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Jason Mraz in anti-trafficking concert Local artists, including a hiphop singer, also played at the event organized by the anti-trafficking media group MTV EXIT - for “End Exploitation and Trafficking” - in cooperation with U.S. and Australian government aid agencies and the antislavery organization Walk Free.

Myanmar is emerging from decades of isolation under a reformist elected government that took office last year after almost five decades of military rule. It has been one of the region’s poorest countries, and its bad human rights record made it the target of political and economic sanctions by Western nations.

But democratic reforms initiated

by President Thein Sein have led to the lifting of most sanctions, and the country is hopeful of a political and economic revival. Nobel Peace

Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, the pro-democracy opposition leader, was released from house arrest in late 2010 and won a seat in parliament last April.

Mraz called his top-billed appearance at the concert a “tremendous honor.” “I think the country is, at this time, downloading lots of new information from all around the world,” he said. “I’ve always wanted my music to be here, (for) hope and celebration, peace, love and happiness. And so I’m delighted that my music can be a part of this big download that Myanmar is experiencing right now.”

Organizers said Mraz was the first international artist to perform at an open-air, mass public concert in Myanmar. Jazz artists Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Charlie Byrd

visited the country under U.S. government sponsorship in the 1970s, when it was still called Burma, but played at much smaller venues.

Many in the crowd queued for two hours before being admitted to the concert site. Yangon native Sann Oo, 31, wearing a white T-shirt with a sketch of Mraz, said he was pleased that Mraz had come and that there would be a broadcast of the event.

“His visit can promote the image of Myanmar, because people outside have been seeing the country as an insecure place, and poor,” he said.

“Now they can see how we look like from the concert. It also opens the potential for more concerts by foreign artists.” Mraz has a history of involvement with human rights and other social causes.

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e-mail: info_ibp@balipost.co.id online: http://www.internationalbalipost.com. http://epaper.internationalbalipost.com.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012 Obama in Newtown: ‘We can’t tolerate this anymore’ Page 6

Messi leaves Falcao and Ronaldo trailing in La Liga

Feeder route of Sarbagita designed to use subscription

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Ahead of Christmas and New Year

Associated Press Writer

YANGON, Myanmar — American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz mixed entertainment with education to become the first world-class entertainer in decades to perform in Myanmar, with a concert to raise awareness of human trafficking. Mraz’s 2008 hit “I’m Yours” was the finale for Sunday night’s concert before a crowd of about 50,000 people at the base of the famous hilltop Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the country’s biggest city.

AP Photo/Zin Chit Aung

American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz gestures as he arrives before his concert in Yangon, Myanmar, on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012. Mraz mixed entertainment with education to become the first world-class entertainer in decades to perform in Myanmar, with a concert to raise awareness of human trafficking.

Military commander asks to be vigilant

Morgan Freeman denies making statement about school shooting Reuters

AP Photo/Vince Bucci, file

REUTERS/Mary F. Calvert

Actor Morgan Freeman attends the 35th Annual Kennedy Center Honors performance and gala at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington December 2, 2012.

LOS ANGELES - Actor Morgan Freeman said on Sunday that he did not issue a statement blaming the media for sensationalizing the Newtown School shootings that left 20 children and several adults dead.The award-winning actor added that he never made or posted the statement that became a Facebook and Internet sensation, saying it was a hoax.

His publicist Stan Rosenfield told TheWrap that the actor’s camp was trying to determine the origin of the hoax statement.“It’s because of the way the media reports it,” the phony statement read in part. “Turn on the news and see how we treat the Batman theater

shooter and the Oregon mall shooter like celebrities. Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris are household names, but do you know the name of a single ‘victim’ of Columbine?

“Disturbed people who would otherwise just off themselves in their basement see the news and want to top it by doing something worse and going out in a memorable way. Why a grade school? Why children? Because he’ll be remembered as a horrible monster instead of a sad nobody.”

The hoax statement also takes CNN to task over its use of the phrase “body count” in relation to the Newtown shootings and said the news coverage would incite more killings.

16 Pages Number 2 5th year

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

A staff of hotel finished the replica of Cathedral Church from chocolate that made to celebrate Christmas. Ahead of Christmas and New Year celebration, the Commander of the IX Udayana Military Command, Wisnu Bawa Tenaya, asked all the components ranging from military, police to community to come together and tighten the security and remain vigilant.

FOTO ANTARA/Akbar Nugroho Gumay

Bali Post

TABANAN - Ahead of Christmas and New Year celebration, the Commander of the IX Udayana Military Command, Wisnu Bawa Tenaya, asked all the components ranging from military, police to community to come together and tighten the security and remain vigilant.

“Security should be maintained together by all the components in order that Bali is safe and peaceful. Never let the threat of crime come from short cuts,” he said on Sunday (Dec 16).

The commander said there would be no too special security, but vigilance and optimization of security forces remained to be put forward. “Nothing is too special.

However, we must maintain the security of Bali maximally because Bali is a leading tourist destina-

tion,” he said.

Specifically the commander also asked the security to be tightened up at customary village by optimizing the role of pecalang or customary security officer and residents.

Thus, it was expected there would be no security problem ranging

from sacred effigy theft and the threat of terrorism could even be anticipated. He also appealed in order the Christmas and New Year celebration would not be used to get drunk by young people. “Let’s make introspection and mutually respect and help,” he said.

When asked if there were indications of terrorist threats before Christmas and New Year, the commander said so far there were not. “For the time being, there are not. Yet, Bali must be vigilant all the time. Do not be inattentive. Those who are inattentive will lose out, the loser will suffer. Therefore, please be vigilant,” reminded the commander.

Then, when asked about his prediction on the security of Bali in 2013 compared to 2012, the commander was optimistic if the security of Bali could be main-

tained. In essence, there should be preparation from the beginning and all the parties got involved on all fronts. Admittedly, there were still loopholes to undermine the security of Bali, namely through short cuts ashore or at sea. To that end, police and other relevant parties were expected to further intensify their patrols at short cuts and entrance to Bali through sea routes such as Padangbai and Gilimanuk. “Do not let the threat of crimes roam around at these short cuts,” he concluded. (kmb29)