Edition Tuesday, January 8, 2019 | International Bali Post

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Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Britney Spears cancels shows indefinitely after father ‘almost died’

LAS VEGAS - Britney Spears has announced an “indefinite work hiatus” to spend time with her family, revealing that her father “almost died” in an emotional message to her fans.

Sir Billy was given the all-clear for prostate cancer

IBP/net

Sir Billy Connolly says sorry to fans and declares he’s ‘not dying’ LONDON - Sir Billy Connolly has assured fans he is “not dead” in a musical message after a programme documenting his battles with cancer and Parkinson’s.

The comments in a social media post follow a BBC programme called Billy Connolly: Made In Scotland which gave an update on his health problems and revealed his life was “slipping away”.

Reviewing his life in comedy for the show, Sir Billy said he felt “near the end”, but insisted he was unafraid of what awaited him.

But on Saturday, in an upbeat message released on social media, the comedy stalwart and talented folk musician told fans he was very much alive.

As he strummed his banjo in what appeared to be his new home state of Florida, the comedian, who was born in Glasgow, said: “Not

dying, not dead, not slipping away.

Sorry if I depressed you. Maybe I should have phrased it better.”

Sir Billy’s wife, Pamela Stephenson, posted the update on Twitter.

The comedian was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, a degenerative neurological condition, in 2013.

It impacts his movement and speech and he told the BBC programme the condition stopped him moving around the stage like he did at his peak.

Sir Billy added: “My life, it’s slipping away and I can feel it and I should.

“I’m 75, I’m near the end. I’m a damn sight nearer the end than I am the beginning.

“But it doesn’t frighten me, it’s an adventure and it is quite interesting to see myself slipping away.” (net)

The singer is putting her Britney: Domination shows in Las Vegas on hold so she can help with her father Jamie’s recovery from “life-threatening health issues”, a statement on her website said.

Mr Spears underwent emergency surgery two months ago after suffering a ruptured colon, the star’s publicist confirmed to Sky News.

In a post on social media, Spears said that “it breaks my heart” to postpone the shows, but that “it’s important to always put your family first”.

In her full message to fans, she said: “I don’t even know where to start with this, because this is so tough for me to say.

“I will not be performing my new show Domination. I’ve been looking forward to this show and seeing all of you this year, so doing this breaks my heart.

“However, it’s important to always put your family first… and that’s the decision I had to make.

“A couple of months ago, my father was hospitalized and almost died. We’re all so grateful that he came out of it alive, but he still has a long road ahead of him. I had to make the difficult decision to put my full focus and energy on my family at this time.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

“I hope you all can understand. More information on ticket refunds is available on britneyspears. com. I appreciate your prayers and support for my family during this time. Thank you, and love you all… always.”

Details of Mr Spears’ illness were given in a statement, which said: “Two months ago, Mr Jamie Spears became seriously ill and was rushed to Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas. (net)

Mark RALSTON / AFP

Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama for “Bohemian Rhapsody” winner Rami Malek poses with Graham King (2ndR), Brian May (3rdL) and Mike Myers (R) in the press room during the 76th annual Golden Globe Awards on January 6, 2019, at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California.

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ rocks Golden Globes with surprise coda

“Bohemian Rhapsody” pulled a major upset at the close of the Golden Globes on Sunday, taking home the final two top prizes to put itself into the Oscars conversation along with “Green Book” and “Roma.”

On a night of wins for movies representing minorities, two awards favorites about white people -- Dick Cheney biopic “Vice” and musical romance “A Star is Born” -- all but struck out, with each picking up just one trophy in the run-up to the all-important Oscars on February 24.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” -- which charts the rise of British rock group Queen -- picked up best actor for Rami Malek, who plays legendary frontman Freddie Mercury. It also bagged the biggest movie award of the night -- best drama.

“I am beyond moved. My heart is pounding out of my chest right now,” said Malek, whose list of people to thank included the Queen

singer, who died in 1991.

“Thank you to Freddie Mercury for giving me the joy of a lifetime. I love you, you beautiful man. This is for and because of you, gorgeous.”

The two trophies were the final prizes in a ceremony that had been expected to be a consecration for “A Star is Born” -- starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper in the age-old Hollywood fable of an ailing performer and his muse -- which went into the night with five nods.

“Star” had to content itself with a statuette for best song, which went to Gaga and writing partner Mark Ronson, while Christian Bale -- who plays Cheney -- picked up the solo gong for “Vice.”

Civil rights dramedy “Green

Book” was the numerical winner -if not the prestige player -- picking up awards for best comedy movie, best supporting actor Mahershala Ali and best screenplay.

The boozy gala at the Beverly Hilton also recognized Alfonso Cuaron’s “Roma,” a cinematic ode to his childhood in 1970s Mexico City, with best director and foreign film honors, while seven movies bagged one statuette each.

“Cinema at its best builds bridges to other cultures,” Cuaron told the audience. “We need to understand how much we have in common.”

- Less edgy Under an azure southern

California sky, Tinseltown’s A-listers worked the red carpet with last year’s gender politics still very much in mind.

Many wore “Time’s Up” bracelets in a nod to the movement for sexual equality in the workplace that grabbed the headlines 12 months ago as the industry faced a reckoning about rampant harassment and abuse.

Hosting the Globes were comedian Andy Samberg and actress Sandra Oh, who made history as the first Asian woman to have presented a major awards show while also taking home her second Globe for “Killing Eve.” As the only awards show where alcohol is served, the evening is usually more colorful than showbiz’s other big nights.

But the presenters set the tone for a less edgy affair than in previ-

ous years with a relatively tame opening that gave more time to complimenting the nominees than assailing them with “roast”-style jokes.

Samberg paid tribute to the diversity among the slate of films up for awards, singling out “If Beale Street Could Talk,” whose star Regina King took home best supporting actress honors, as well as “Black Panther” and “Crazy Rich Asians,” which went home empty-handed.

News can also be heard in “Bali Image” at Global Radio FM 96.5 from 9.30 until 10.00 am. Listen to Global Radio FM at http:// globalfmbali.listen2myradio.com or live video streaming at http://radioglobalfmbali.com and http:// ustream.tv/channel/global-fm-bali.

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Bali News

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

Rural inflation in Bali the highest in Indonesia

DENPASAR —Based on observation against the rural peasant household consumption index in December 2018, inflation in Bali’s villages was the highest in the 33 provinces. However, all provinces indeed experienced inflation. Rural inflation in Bali province reached 1.25 percent.

Meanwhile, the lowest inflation was recorded in North Sumatra province with a magnitude of 0.06 percent.

This was conveyed by the Head of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Bali, Adi Nugroho, recently. In December 2018, Bali province recorded a rural inflation of 1.25 percent due to the increase in the average price of goods in all groups.

The highest inflation was recorded in the foodstuffs group reaching 2.82 percent followed by the health group (1.12 percent), transportation and communication group (0.22 percent), processed food, drinks, cigarettes and tobacco group (0.14 percent), clothing group (0.09 percent), housing group (0.08 percent), as well as education,

recreation and sports group (0.02 percent).

Consumption commodities contributing to rural inflation in December included onion, chicken meat, hospital room fees, green mustard, cayenne pepper, cob, red chili, and pork.

Although the price of rice is not included in the list contributing to inflation, the results of recording in the seven districts, namely Jembrana, Tabanan, Badung, Gianyar, Klungkung, Karangasem, and Buleleng during December 2018 showed the price of harvested unhulled rice (GKP) at

farmer level have increased.

The increase was 0.51 percent, from IDR 4,706 per kilogram in the previous month to IDR 4,730 per kilogram in December 2018. Similarly, the average price of GKP at the milling level rose by 0.56 percent from IDR 4,791 per kilogram to IDR 4,817 per kilogram. However, the price of rice in the market is quite stable. Inflation in Singaraja, for example, was contributed by rice from the foodstuffs group, but the contribution was very small at 0.0793 percent.

Inflation and the increase in grain prices caused the condition of Farmer’s

Waste processing innovation

It can be processed into pellets and gasoline SEMARAPURA - Garbage stacks are always a source of problems in each region. Klungkung district answers the problem with various innovations. After being successful with the Local Waste Processing Unit (TOSS) program that processes waste into pellets (substitute of coal raw materials) for PLN, another new idea emerged, namely processing waste into gasoline.

The pilot innovation in processing waste, especially plastic waste into gasoline, was pioneered by Paksebali

village, Dawan. Local village wants to integrate the management of the local tourism village with the Kali Unda icon, featuring this waste processing innovation. The waste management process is made into a tourist attraction because the waste problem has currently gone global and requires various innovative ideas to make waste return valuable and have benefits. This is the reason why outsiders come and want to learn further after seeing the positive impact on the lives of the surrounding community.

Paksebali village is prepared to do so. Headman of Paksebali, Putu Ariadi, stated on Sunday (Jan. 6) that currently Paksebali village has a 3R polling station and Local Waste Management Site being ready to be integrated with the tourist attraction.

Paksebali village will be used as a pilot project for processing plastic waste into gasoline by the PLN. He hoped the pilot process will run smoothly, just like TOSS being successful in processing waste into pellets like at Gunaksa village. If this goes

Business Exchange Value (NTUP) in December 2018 to also increase by 1.29 percent. The increase in the NTUP index was recorded in four sub-sectors.

The highest increase was recorded in the horticulture sub-sector by 2.24 percent, followed by livestock (1.92 percent), food crops (1.29 percent) and fisheries (0.06 percent).

Conversely, the NTUP of the smallholder plantation sub-sector recorded a decrease of 0.91 percent.

“If looking at the NTUP in the fisheries sub-sector in more detail, it can be seen that the NTUP of capture fisheries recorded a decline of 0.07 percent, whereas the NTUP of aquaculture increased by 0.30 percent,” he said.

Deputy Director of Bank Indonesia for Bali Representative Office, Azka A. Subhan, stated that in fact the rural inflation in Bali last December was

quite even in various sectors. On that account, production and distribution of goods and commodities in rural areas need to be improved.

One of the anticipatory efforts that can be carried out is by the rural inflation care program. The concern for inflation can be started from the rural areas. “It is the flagship program of Bangli district when it won the best predicate in the district level of regional inflation monitoring team (TPID) for Java and Bali in 2017 received in 2018,” said Azka.

He added that rural inflation, especially for agricultural commodities, can benefit farmers if farmers really receive good prices. However, if the price advantage is received by middlemen or intermediary traders, the price increases are not beneficial to farmers as only enjoyed by traders. (kmb42)

according to plan, he is confident the process of integration with tourism villages will further add to the tourist attraction that make tourists more interested in looking more closely at Paksebali village.

For information, there are thousands of tourists visiting Paksebali village every month. Unda River is one of the tourist attractions drawing many tourists. Aside from enjoying the place that began to be arranged, the object is also equipped with culinary outlet and wedding photo spots getting quite famous in Bali with the objects under the waterfall. In developing tourism at Paksebali village, disadvantaged communities are also involved. Thus, this is also one of the ways to alleviate the poor at the village.

In 2016, the number of underprivileged families at Paksebali village was recorded to reach 212 families.

However, the latest data show there are only 41 families. “Tourism and innovation are effective collaborations in improving people’s life. We want to take this seriously,” said Ariadi.

Various preparations and collaborations began to be made by his authority to realize this plan by creating new innovations. Making new innovations is a must if wishing to win the competition. With various efforts having been made, he hoped that tourist visits to Paksebali village will continue to increase, so that it is in line with the increase in the community’s economy and overall village development. (kmb31)

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Bangli: Swasrina, Buleleng: Mudiarta, Gianyar: Manik Astajaya, Karangasem: Eka Parananda, Klungkung: Bagiarta. Jakarta: Nikson, Hardianto, Ade Irawan. NTB: Agus Talino, Izzul Khairi, Raka Akriyani. Surabaya: Bambang Wilianto.  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

Activities

International

Lada Resto Reopens at Sanur Prama Beach

Lada Resto has reopened its doors to avid diners at Prama Sanur Beach featuring major interior upgrades on the terrace area that overlooks a lush tropical garden. The restaurant also comes with an air-conditioned seating area and an open kitchen which is housed within a beautiful and classically designed individual building nestled un-

der swaying palm trees, and is located on the pathway leading towards the beach. Diners are promised breathtaking views of the sea and garden from almost every corner. The menu at Lada Resto focuses on Indonesia’s remarkable cuisine and flavours from across the archipelago with popular local selections from starters to main courses derived

from the land and sea. Using Indonesia’s renowned traditional cooking methods which incorporate charcoal grill and the wok, the team produces a wide variety of selections from the basic ingredients comprising rice, noodles, side dishes and sweets as well as an array of local drinks and blends. Jl. Cemara, Sanur Bali | Ph: +62 361 288 011 |

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

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Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Science

A new way to genetically tweak photosynthesis boosts plant growth

CANBERRA - A genetic hack to make photosynthesis more efficient could be a boon for agricultural production, at least for some plants.

This feat of genetic engineering simplifies a complex, energy-expensive operation that many plants must perform during photosynthesis known as photorespiration. In field tests, genetically modifying tobacco in this way increased plant growth by over 40 percent. If it produces similar results in other crops, that could help farmers meet the food demands of a growing global population, researchers report in the Jan. 4 Science.

Streamlining photorespiration is “a great step forward in efforts to enhance photosynthesis,” says Spencer Whitney, a plant biochemist at Australian National University in Canberra not involved in the work.

Now that the agricultural industry has mostly optimized the use of yield-boosting tools like pesticides, fertilizers and irrigation, researchers are trying to micromanage and improve plant growth by designing ways to make photosynthesis more efficient (SN: 12/24/16, p. 6).

Photorespiration is a major roadblock to achieving such efficiency. It occurs in many plants, such as soybeans, rice and wheat, when an enzyme called Rubisco — whose main job is to help transform carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into sugars that fuel plant growth — accidentally snatches an oxygen molecule out of the atmosphere instead.

That Rubisco-oxygen interaction, which happens about 20 percent of the time, generates the toxic compound glycolate, which a plant must recycle into useful molecules through photorespiration. This processes comprises a long chain of chemical reactions that span four compartments in a plant cell. All told, completing a cycle of photorespiration is like driving from Maine to Florida by way of California.

That waste of energy can cut crop yields by 20 to 50 percent, depending on plant species and environmental conditions.

Using genetic engineering, researchers have now designed a more direct chemical pathway for photorespiration that is confined to a single cell compartment — the cellular equivalent of a Maine-to-Florida road trip straight down the East Coast.

Paul South, a molecular biologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Urbana, Ill., and colleagues embedded genetic directions for this shortcut, written on pieces of algae and pumpkin DNA, in tobacco plant cells. The researchers also genetically engineered the cells to not produce a chemical that allows glycolate to travel between cell compartments to prevent the glycolate from taking its normal route through the cell.

Unlike previous experiments with human-designed photorespiration pathways, South’s team tested its photorespiration detour in plants grown in fields under real-world farming conditions. Genetically altered tobacco produced 41 percent more biomass than tobacco that hadn’t been modified.

“It’s very exciting” to see how well this genetic tweak worked in tobacco, says Veronica Maurino, a plant physiologist at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf in Germany not involved in the research, but “you can’t say, ‘It’s functioning. Now it will function everywhere.’”

Experiments with different types of plants will reveal whether this photorespiration fix creates the same benefits for other crops as it does for tobacco. South’s team is currently running greenhouse experiments on potatoes with the new set of genetic modifications, and plans to do similar tests with soybeans, black-eyed peas and rice.

The vetting process for such genetic modifications to be approved for use on commercial farms, including more field testing, will probably take at least another five to 10 years, says Andreas Weber, a plant biochemist also at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf who coauthored a commentary on the study that appears in the same issue of Science. In the meantime, he expects that researchers will continue trying to design even more efficient photorespiration shortcuts, but South’s team “has now set a pretty high bar.” (net)

IBP/net

Field tests with plants under real-world farming conditions have revealed how tweaking plants’ genetic instructions for a process called photorespiration increases crop yield.

International

Bali News

International

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

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IBP/net

Feedlots hold a lot of animals — and that means a lot of urine, which releases ammonia into the atmosphere. A new satellite technique can pinpoint feedlots and other major sources of ammonia emissions.

Satellites make mapping hot spots of ammonia pollution easier

BRUSSELS - Satellites may be a more accurate way to track smog-producing ammonia.

It’s notoriously tricky to pinpoint accurate numbers for ammonia gas emissions from sources such as animal feedlots and fertilizer plants. But new maps, generated from infrared radiation measurements gathered by satellites, reveal global ammonia hot spots in greater detail than before. The new data suggest that previous estimates underestimate the magnitude of these emissions, researchers report December 5 in Nature.

In the atmosphere, ammonia, which contains nitrogen, can help form tiny particles that worsen air quality and harm human health. The research could help keep tabs on who’s emitting how much, to make sure that factories and farms are meeting environmental standards.

Emissions are usually estimated by adding up output from individual known sources of activity, but those calculations are only as good as the data that go into them. Ammonia sticks around only hours to a few days in the atmosphere, so on-the-ground measurements vary a lot even in the same place, says coauthor Martin Van Damme, an atmospheric scientist at the Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium.

“There’s so much uncertainty in ammonia emissions,” says Daven Henze, a mechanical engineer at the University of Colorado Boulder who wasn’t part of the research. Other scientists, including his research group, have estimated ammonia releases using satellite data before. But these new maps rely on a more detailed dataset and have substantially better resolu-

tion, Henze says — fine enough that the study authors were able to link areas of high emissions to specific factories or farms.

The new maps show 248 nitrogen emission hot spots across the globe at a resolution of about a kilometer. Eighty-three of those hot spots arose from agricultural activity that involved high numbers of cows, pigs and chickens, such as a site in Colorado that overlapped on satellite imagery maps with two big cattle feedlots.

Ammonia emissions from feedlots come largely from livestock waste. Another 158 sites were affected by industrial emissions — mostly from sites that produced ammonia-based fertilizer, such as in Marvdasht, Iran. Six hot spots couldn’t be pinned to specific activity.

Ammonia is also emitted naturally, from volcanoes or seabird colonies. But most of those sources were too weak or not concentrated enough to show up as hot spots in the data. Lake Natron in Tanzania is the one exception — its mud flats show up as an ammonia-releasing hot spot, perhaps due to decaying algae. But it’s not clear why other lakes with similar mud flats didn’t. Some natural sources may have gone undetected because of where they were located — in places with heavy cloud cover that obscured the data, or where turbulent air dissipated ammonia especially quickly, Van Damme suggests.

Some areas with particularly high overall ammonia emissions from biomass burning or fertilizer, such as West Africa and the Indus Valley in Pakistan and northern India, didn’t reveal specific hot spots, either, the researchers report. (net)

IBP/kmb

Pertamina would continue to regularly evaluate the fuel prices in accordance with the dynamics of crude oil prices and the rupiah exchange rate in the global market.

Prices of non-subsidized fuel go down

JAKARTA — In keeping with the decline in the average price of world crude oil and the strengthening of the rupiah against the US dollar, PT Pertamina (Persero) made price adjustments to non-subsidized fuel with varying amounts.

Managing Director of Pertamina, Nicke Widyawati, said the price adjustments made by Pertamina are in accordance with the prevailing mechanisms and regulations. “We have coordinated with relevant agencies to provide the best services for the community, especially loyal

customers of Pertamina products,” said Nicke.

Meanwhile, Director of Retail Marketing, Masud Khamid, added the price adjustment of the nonsubsidized fuel will take effect from Saturday (Jan. 5) at 00:00. The type of fuel undergoing price adjustments

are Pertalite dropping by IDR 150 per liter, Pertamax dropping by IDR 200 per liter, Pertamax Turbo dropping by IDR 250 per liter, Dexlite dropping

by IDR 200 per liter, and Dex dropping by IDR 100 per liter. New prices applying in several regions may vary because they are affected by differ-

ences in the amount of motor vehicle fuel tax (PBBKB) in the region.

As an illustration, the Jabodetabek region had the adjustment of Pertalite from IDR.7,800 to IDR 7,650, Pertamax from IDR 10,400 to IDR10,200, Pertamax Turbo from IDR12,250 to IDR 12,000, Dexlite from IDR 10,500 to IDR 10,300, Dex from IDR 11,850 to IDR 11,750.

Masud added that Pertamina

would continue to regularly evaluate the fuel prices in accordance with the dynamics of crude oil prices and the rupiah exchange rate in the global market. Pertamina hoped the price adjustment can increase the loyalty of people having already become regular customers of Pertamina’s product. At the same time, it becomes the company’s efforts to invite the public to use quality fuel products. (kmb42)

Australian tourist visit ranked first, followed by Chinese

DENPASAR - Australian tourists returned to occupy first position of the visit to Bali, while Chinese tourist visit declined 37.51 percent, ranked second. Although Chinese tourists declined sharply, tourist arrivals in November 2018 increased by 12.80 percent (yoy). However, when compared to October 2018, tourist visits to Bali fell by 21.37 percent.

This was conveyed by the Head of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Bali, Adi Nugroho. The highest tourist growth to Bali in November 2018 was Singaporean tourists, namely 52.97 percent, in the second position was Japan and the United States 40.42 percent, and then India at 35.59 percent and Malaysia (30.97 percent). If sorted by the number of tourists, the highest visit was achieved by Australia with 87,344 people, China (73,822 people), India (28,639 people), Japan (9,357 people) and the United States (18,989 people).

Deputy Chairman of the Central Executive Board of Indonesia Hotel General Managers Association

(IHGMA), I Made Ramia Adnyana, said that due to the decline of the Chinese market to the second position is related to the chaotic Chinese shops in Bali that were closed due to illegal operations. This resulted in many cancellations of flight charter to Bali because Chinese agencies no longer received any subsidies from the closed shops. China’s drop in the market occurs in the fourth quarter of 2018 so that the impact is very significant on the total visit to Bali placing the Chinese market in the second place after Australia. However, in 2019 he believed that Chinese market will return, certainly with better quality, spending power and length of stay.

Meanwhile, the Australian is traditional market of Bali and is often referred to as “Bread & Butter” which means that Bali is the preferred destination and favorite for Australian tourists. “This is what must be maintained with consistent promotion,” he said.

Likewise, Europe, Russia and Japan must also be worked on consistently so as to maintain Bali as a

favorite destination considering they are quality market with long spending power and length of stay while in Bali.

The market is also very concerned about the environment and local culture. So, for sustainable tourism, Bali must focus on the markets as well as the traditional market. Of course, it is a new hope in the New Era of Bali as the most favorite tourist destination in the world.

Co-Founder of Pramana Experience, I Nyoman Sudirga Yusa, managing around 30 properties, said the most foreign tourists coming to Ubud are European especially the United Kingdom reaching 73 percent. During low season conditions, the visit of European tourists to Ubud remains stable, where the room occupancy rate was closed at 87 percent in November 2018.

The government targeted to bring in 20 million foreign tourists, where Chinese tourists are most in total.

However, currently the most tourists coming to Ubud are Europeans.

Indeed, from the 1920s, European guests first built the Ubud destination

mostly consisting of European artists such as Arie Smith, Bonnet and Antonio Blanco. “Ubud is indeed a strong European base because Ubud was already famous in Europe from that year,” he said.

European tourists better appreci-

ated to Balinese culture and customs.

“They love culture more. Once talking about culture, they must get interested,” he said. Money spending of European tourist is the same as that of Australian and American markets. (kmb42)

IBP/kmb

Australian tourists returned to occupy first position of the visit to Bali, while Chinese tourist visit declined 37.51 percent, ranked second.

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Bali News

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

Tabanan currently has 24 tourism villages. Most of these tourism villages have started to run and are active even though the visit cannot be said to be crowded.

13

Malaysian royals prepare to pick king after historic abdication

Tabanan has 24 tourism villages, breakthrough needed to increase visits

TABANAN — Tabanan currently has 24 tourism villages.

Most of these tourism villages have started to run and are active even though the visit cannot be said to be crowded. On that account, to increase tourist visit to villages this requires a new breakthrough and a process.

Head of the Tabanan Tourism Office, I Made Yasa, said some time ago that out of 24 tourism villages in Tabanan, several villages began to develop and had already received tourist visits such as the Pinge and Nyambu tourism village. He admitted that in general to attract tourists to

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

come to tourism villages is not easy, and requires a process. “Indeed, at first it is difficult because the tourism villages offered are new destinations.

Therefore, it must be introduced to the tourists first. Definitely, there is a new breakthrough to make typical characteristic of the tourism village

itself,” he said.

He continued that the most important thing applied in running a tourism village is the participation of the community being proud of the difference in the clean village, while at the same time applying the Sapta Pesona (Seven Charms) and Tri Hitakarana or the concept of harmony. ’’Previously, a number of similar conditions were also experienced by tourist attractions in Tabanan such as the Tanah Lot, and Ulun Danu Beratan. These objects at first also experienced a quiet visit, but

over time when being accompanied with promotions, the visits to these attractions experienced a surge in trends,” he said.

Learning from this experience, Yasa said that his office will also continue to help encourage and promote tourism villages in Tabanan.

Currently, there are 14 tourism villages having been assisted to repair infrastructure in the form of making footpaths. Meanwhile, to prepare human resources of the tourism villages, his office has responded by holding

tourism resource training.

Yasa hoped that every tourism village in Tabanan district can create a book covering the ins and outs of the tourism villages in question.

Later on, the book can be made into a benchmark for tour guides of relevant tourism villages posing the local community.

“Based on the book, local tour guides can tell the uniqueness about their respective village, both in terms of their natural beauty, culture and others,” he concluded. (kmb24)

Tourists throng Taman Ayun attraction

IBP/kmb

Residents were seen flocking to visit the natural attractions of Sangeh, Taman Ayun, and Taman Mumbul.

MANGUPURA — Visiting a tourist attraction is the main purpose of Balinese people, especially in Badung district when celebrating holiday after Kuningan Day on Sunday (Jan. 6).

Residents were seen flocking to visit the natural attractions of Sangeh, Taman Ayun, and Taman Mumbul.

The beauty of the natural panorama seemed to be a magnet for visitors, both for local Badung residents and local tourists in filling in their post Kuningan holiday. They were sitting relaxingly with family, friends, relatives and others. Moreover, a number of residents just took photos to capture the moment.

Ketut Sadia, one of the visitors, said that he intentionally came with his family because he wanted to take a vacation. According to the man who wore middle customary clothes, Taman Ayun is quite comfortable, so he stays for a long time.

“This object is always crowded from the past time. On Galungan, Umanis Galungan, Kuningan and

the day after Kuningan are always crowded. Similarly, such condition also occurs after Nyepi or Day of Silence celebration,” he said.

Operations Manager of Taman Ayun attraction, Made Suandi, said that it had become a habit that Taman Ayun is thronged by visitors every six months. By all means, local visitors dominate the visit every six months on Galungan and the day after Kuningan.

“It must be crowded with local Bali visitors. This has become a tradition every six months,” he said.

According to him, the crowded visitors after Kuningan Day was also influenced by the impromptu market in the west of Taman Ayun. A number of food merchants selling their products were placed right in front of the Yadnya Museum.

“The merchants are only given the opportunity for one day, tomorrow they will be gone due to being temporary in nature. Similarly, the parking also lasts temporarily. Later,

on normal days it will return to normal. At least, there is contributions to the local community,” he explained.

He admitted, there are thousands of people making a visit on the day after Kuningan celebration. On that account, he hoped that visitors will maintain cleanliness and beauty. “If it’s crowded like today, we have to be tolerant to the community because it just lasts temporarily,” he affirmed.

Regarding the tourist visit on regular day, it also showed an increase reaching more than 1,000 foreign tourists each day. Domestic tourists also reach 250 people per day. Meanwhile, the price of admission ticket is also different, where for foreign tourist costs IDR 20,000 per person, while for domestic tourist costs IDR 10,000 per person.

“Indeed, the tourist visit shows an increase of 10 percent. This has started to increase from a week ago. Well, hopefully it will continue to increase,” he concluded. (kmb27)

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia’s royals prepared Monday to pick a new king to replace Sultan Muhammad V, who abdicated in a historic first after reportedly marrying a Russian former beauty queen, holding a special gathering at the national palace.

The king stepped aside Sunday following intense speculation about his future after reports surfaced in recent weeks that he had taken medical leave, and then wed the former Miss Moscow.

As the country reacted with shock to the news, Malaysia’s Islamic royal families set about the task of electing a new king to replace Muhammad V, 49, who gave up the throne just two years into his term.

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy, with a unique arrangement where the throne changes hands every five years between rulers of the country’s nine states headed by centuries-old Islamic royalty.

The royal households take it in turn to provide the country’s king, and it is usually known before the formal election who will become the monarch.

While their role is ceremonial, Malaysia’s royalty command great respect, especially from Muslim Malays, and criticising them is strictly forbidden.

A special meeting of the rulers was held at the palace in Kuala Lumpur to set a date for a new king to be elected, official news agency Bernama reported.

It will happen in the coming weeks, with the new king expected to serve a full, five-year term.

The national palace did not respond to requests for comment.

Sultan Nazrin Shah of northern Perak state is the acting king, local media reported. He is the current deputy king and performed Muhammad V’s duties after he went on medical leave at the start of November.

Despite mounting speculation in recent days the king might give up the throne, there was still palpable shock in the Muslim-majority country at the first abdication of a king since the end of British rule in 1957.

“I am naturally stunned. The (king) is a man of the people,” Siti Nur Fahimah Razali, a 25-year-old trader from the king’s home state of Kelantan, told the New Straits Times newspaper.

Among those wishing the former king well was scandal-plagued former premier Najib Razak, who wrote in a Facebook post: “We Malaysians pray for his health and that he is protected by Allah.

Long live the king!”

But there had been growing unease after reports emerged in foreign media in late November -- several weeks after the king went on leave -- that he had married the Russian, Oksana Voevodina.

Royal officials in Malaysia have not so far commented on the reported marriage. (afp)

Mohd RASFAN / AFP

This file photo taken on July 17, 2018 shows the 15th king of Malaysia, Sultan Muhammad V, saluting a royal guard of honour during the opening ceremony of the parliament in Kuala Lumpur.

AFP

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gestures while speaking at a press conference in Dhaka on December 31, 2018.

Hasina to be sworn in as Bangladesh PM after ‘tainted’ polls

DHAKA - Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as Bangladeshi prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging.

Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism.

Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition.

The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.

Seventeen people were killed on election day.

The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying “significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote.”

The United States expressed concern about “credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence”.

The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that “reprisals” have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests,

harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases.

The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright.

- ‘Mother of humanity’ To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh’s “mother of humanity” for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017.

Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian antipress freedom laws to try to cling to power.

Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh’s first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons.

She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami

League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

Hasina joined forces with Zia’s BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the “Battling Begums”.

Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years.

Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest.

She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges.

She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six percent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 percent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

She was due to be sworn in at 3:30 pm (0930 GMT) along with a 47-member cabinet that includes many new faces. (afp)

12

International

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Bali News

International

US employers went on a surprising hiring spree in December The job gains reported Friday by the Labor Department came despite a trade war with China, a global slowdown and a partial government shutdown now entering its third week.

The nation’s unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.9 percent last month, but that, too, was considered a positive sign, reflecting an increase in Americans beginning to look for work. And average hourly pay improved 3.2 percent from a year ago.

Stocks surged on the news, along with word that the U.S. and China will hold trade talks next week and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell that the Fed will be flexible in judging whether to raise interest rates further.

The Dow Jones industrial average shot up 747 points, or 3.3 percent.

President Donald Trump called the job growth “GREAT” on Twitter.

The torrid hiring in December far outstripped the 180,000 jobs investors had been anticipating and could help ease fears that the economy’s expansion — now in the middle of its 10th year — may be coming to an end.

“The labor market is very strong even though the economy appears to be slowing,” said Eric Winograd, senior U.S. economist at the investment management firm AllianceBern-

stein. “Those two things cannot coexist for very long. Either weakening demand will lead firms to dial back the pace of hiring or the robust pace of hiring will lead firms to ramp back up production.”

In recent weeks, financial markets have plunged amid concerns that the U.S. could be in a recession by 2020. The Dow suffered its worst December since the middle of the Depression in 1931.

Major companies such as Apple say their sales are being jeopardized by the tariff war between Washington and Beijing, and an important gauge of U.S. manufacturing posted its steepest decline in a decade Thursday.

China, the world’s second-largest economy, is also mired in a slowdown, its consumers losing much of their appetite for real estate, iPhones, Ford vehicles and jewelry from Tiffany & Co. The U.S. government shutdown and Trump’s attacks on the Fed and its chairman over the central bank’s rate increases have also worried investors, though Powell may have eased some of those concerns Friday when he stressed that he would not resign if the president told him to do so.

The strong job growth suggests employers believe U.S. consumer spending will stay robust.

Health care and education added 82,000 jobs last month, the largest jump in nearly nine years. Restaurants and drinking places posted a net gain of 40,700 jobs. Builders added 38,000 construction jobs, while manufacturers increased their payrolls by 32,000 workers.

Businesses are still searching for more workers.

Fresh Coat Painters, based in Cincinnati, plans to nearly double the 300 employees who paint homes and businesses as it expands this year across this country. The franchiser is also launching an apprenticeship program to attract workers, in addition to providing higher pay and benefits.

Tara Riley, president of Fresh Coat, said that franchise owners are having to actively search for workers instead of simply posting ads.

“We realized it was a mindset change: You have to be recruiting, rather than hiring,” Riley said.

Still, Kevin Hassett, chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, cautioned on Thursday that the jobs report for January could be weak if the shutdown continues.

Job totals could be lowered by hundreds of thousands of government employees being temporarily put out of work.

“So when we see the January jobs number, it could be a big negative,” Hassett said. In 2018, employers added 2.6 million jobs, or an average of nearly 220,000 a month, according to the Labor Department.

At some point, even if the economy remains healthy, monthly job gains will likely downshift to a more gradual pace. This is because there is a dwindling pool of unemployed people. There were 6.3 million people looking for a job in December, down from 6.5 million a year ago.

“People should not get used to numbers like the one we saw this month,” said Martha Gimbel, director of economic research at the jobs site Indeed. “Eventually, job growth is going to start slowing down. When that happens, we shouldn’t panic.” (ap)

AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File

In this Nov. 2, 2017, file photo a recruiter from the postal service, right, speaks with an attendee of a job fair in the cafeteria of Deer Lakes High School in Cheswick, Pa. Even with fear of a global economic slump depressing stock markets, Friday, Jan. 4, 2019 jobs report for December is expected to offer reassurance that the U.S. economy remains sturdy and on track to expand for a 10th straight year.

After celebrating the Galungan Day, the victory of dharma against adharma or the victory of Jayatiga against Kalatiga, the Hindu community in Bali then celebrates Kuningan falling on the Saniscara Kliwon Kuningan or Saturday (Nov. 11). The Kuningan festival begins with a ritual ceremony by slaughtering animals for offerings.

IBP/net

Gunung Lebah Temple

Gunung Lebah Temple is a historic temple which stands on a protruded rock in Ubud. The temple was built in the 8th century and is popular tourist attraction.

The name of this temple translates to ‘small hill’ in the local dialect, a fact that can be attributed to its location at the valley where the tributaries of Sungai Cerik merge.

Located about 2 kms west of the popular Ubud market, Gunung Lebah Temple is associated with the origins of the tourist town Ubud. Enthralled by the picturesque valley and the soothing waters of the two rivers, the High Priest Rsi Markendya decided to build a temple on the grounds, which is today known as Pura Gunung Lebah.

The temple, which remains open 24 hours a day, allows both visitors and pilgrims on a quest for a deeper meaning. To get to the temple, visitors need to access Jl Raya Campuan as the temple is off this road. For the best views, it is advisable to visit the temple in the morning. At this time, the temple is not packed with tourists, and you can enjoy the solitude for a moment or two of reflection.

On arrival, visitors are asked to donate at the temple as part of entrance fees (usually between 10,000-20,000 IDR is appropriate).

Visitors must ensure that they wear a sarong to cover knees and ankles.

Also make sure that shoulders and midriffs are covered. If you do not have your own sarong, you can hire one at the entrance for around 15,000 IDR. Like most of the ancient temples in Ubud, Pura Gunung Lebah is beautifully set among lush natural settings. It’s surrounded by bamboo forests, with the Campuhan River flowing below it. It’s positioned at a good distance away from the main road and at a low elevation.

5

Kuningan Feast, Descent of Deities to Increase Prosperity Graces

BUSINESS

WASHINGTON — U.S. employers went on a hiring spree in December, adding a surprising 312,000 jobs and providing a dose of reassurance about the economy after a turbulent few months on Wall Street.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

The temple is quite hushed from the hubbubs of traffic, which helps provide pilgrims a sense of calm during their prayers.

The temple has close spiritual ties to Batur Temple in the namesake mountain. Batur is around a 90-minute drive up north in the central highlands. Gunung Lebah itself honours the goddess of Batur, and is tribute to the deified founding ancestors of Ubud. The temple complex comprises three courtyards. You can easily enter the first outer courtyard and admire its Balinese temple features.

You’ll instantly see the towering shrines of the ‘Padmasana’ from the centre. The two inner courtyards are usually open during ceremonies. However, you can try your luck anytime while paying close attention to proper temple attire (a sarong and sash around your waist at a minimum). Inside, you’ll find the Bale Gong or gamelan pavilion where the orchestra is staged to accompany ceremonies. Dancers also usually prepare to perform here.

A majestic Bale Kulkul tower houses the temple’s wooden bell.

The complex’s main shrines feature varying numbers of roof tiers. There are also resting pavilions for devotees. You can find Pura Gunung Lebah temple at the eastern end of Ubud’s landmark Campuhan bridge. You can easily see the towering shrines and the courtyard through the high foliage from above.

It’s possible to walk down to the temple from most of the hotels in the immediate area. The closest is the Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas & Spa. The pathway to the right of the temple leads you down to the scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk.

You can enjoy a pleasant light trek or a refreshing jog with lush green views over the Campuhan valley on this trail. (ibp)

Dr. Ketut Sumadi, a lecturer at the IHDN Denpasar, said that before celebrating Kuningan, the Hindu community in Bali holds a ceremony named Pemacekan Agung on Monday after Galungan and before Kuningan. This holy day of pemacekan agung means that devotees may not be careless, must always attempt that jaya tiga is always strong within. Pemacekan Agung means that human should be really a strong person in order to be able to carry out activities, according to the tasks and obligation.

The day before Kuningan, Hindus celebrate Penampahan Kuningan whose procession is the same as Galungan, namely starting to do self-purification, so that it is symbolized with animal (pigs or chickens) slaughtering. “It means to increase again self-awareness so as not to be tease by the kala tiga. Therefore, one needs to strengthen himself to overcome the temptations of life. Philosophically, when doing self-contemplation we increase self-consciousness by denuding ourselves.

Sadripu as the six internal enemies can sometimes

make us forget,” he explained.

Sumadi asserted that on Kuningan Day the ancestors and deities come down to earth as well as bestow prosperity for humanity. On that account, the characteristic offerings presented are yellow rice coming with tamiang, ter (arrow) and endongan. They symbolize the weapons as self-protection for the next life based on the holy and useful knowledge.

On Kuningan, all worships must be completed before midday because it is the culmination of understanding that means never to stop before reaching the peak. After that, it just continues. It is the reason why the Hindus offer yellow oblations symbolizing the summit of happiness, the struggle of life that must be successful. Meanwhile, the worship is dedicated to Mahadev as the god of happiness.

On the feast of Kuningan, explained Dr. Sumadi, mankind has achieved happiness and always increases the creativity and innovation. Moreover, Bali as a world’s tourist destination makes people more creative.

“During the festivities, we seem to rejoice, marked with cultural performance such as ngelawang or street show. That’s why, in the past each hamlet had barong bangkung art troupe as well as other arts,” he said.

The next day is usually celebrated with tirtayatra or pilgrimage the increase faith and devotion to God Almighty. On that account, Hindu devotees do worship to temples. It is also resumed with social visit to relatives and friends. (kmb)

IBP/wawan

6

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Thousands stung in Australian jellyfish ‘invasion’

SYDNEY - Highly venomous jellyfish have stung more than three thousand people on Australia’s northeastern shores in just a few days, authorities said Monday, forcing the closure of several beaches.

The massive influx of Portuguese man o’ war jellyfish, whose stings are notoriously painful, has been described as an “invasion” by local media in the state of Queensland.

Coastguard association Surf Life Saving said a “whopping” 3,595 people had suffered painful burns after encounters with the creatures, also known as bluebottles for their transparent bluish appearance.

At least four major beaches remained closed as the organisation warned that even more jellyfish were on their way.

“A wall of bluebottles is approaching #Rainbow beach. Lifesavers are closing the beach. Please stay out of the water,” read one of several warnings from Surf Life Saving.

Bluebottle stings are a frequent occurrence and it is not uncommon to hear howls of pain from changing rooms along Australia’s eastern beaches during the southern hemisphere’s summer.

But the sheer number of people stung in the last few days has surprised authorities.

There are usually around 10,000 cases of bluebottle stings each year on the east coast of Australia, according to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

The extraordinary number of stings in the last few days has occurred as strong onshore winds have come in from the north-east, bringing the creatures into contact with swimmers.

The doctors’ group describes the symptoms of a sting as an “immediate sharp pain and acute inflammatory skin reaction”.

“The intense skin pain can last from minutes to many hours... The sting can also cause systemic signs such as nausea, vomiting and general feeling of malaise.” Treatment includes rinsing the wound with water at 45 degrees Celsius or using icepacks.

It is less straightforward to treat stings from the fearsome Irukandji variety of jellyfish, however.

Stings from these box jellyfish -- which can be smaller than a finger nail -- can cause acute muscular pain, violent vomiting, feelings of “impending doom”, hair that stands on end, strokes, heart failure and death within minutes. State-backed broadcaster ABC reported that the number of people taken to hospital with Irukandji stings in Queensland this season is already 20, double the normal yearly average. (afp)

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’...

From page 1

“And they are not just here tonight because they resonated with audiences Hollywood often ignores,” he said. “They are here because they told stories that resonated with everyone. And that is truly a beautiful thing.” King vowed that, for the next two years, she would only produce projects that employ 50 percent women, exclaiming: “Time’s Up times two!”

“And I just challenge anyone out there -- anyone out there who is in a position of power, not just in our industry, in all industries -- I challenge you to challenge yourselves and stand with us in solidarity and do the same,” she said.

- Bellwether of momentum This year, the Globes come at the start of voting for Oscar nominations, and while they are not always a clear predictor of Academy Award success, they are a bellwether of momentum.

In the acting categories, Glenn Close (“The Wife”) bested the favorite Lady Gaga on the drama side. Olivia

Colman, who plays Queen Anne in offbeat royal romp “The Favourite,” and Bale won as expected in the comedy acting races.

“Thank you to Satan for giving me inspiration for playing this role,” deadpanned Bale.

Bradley Cooper -- who plays the aging rocker opposite Gaga’s singer in “Star” -- had been favorite for best actor in a drama but was edged out

by Malek.

The television side of the Globes can feel a bit redundant coming so soon after the Emmys in September, with many of the same nominees as the Television Academy field.

Best drama series went to the acclaimed FX Cold War spy thriller “The Americans” -- its first Golden Globe for its sixth and final season.

But adding spice to the mix on Sunday are programs that aired too late for Emmys contention.

Netflix comedy “The Kominsky Method” took home the best comedy series trophy and best actor honors for Michael Douglas.(afp)

W

International

International

RLD

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

11

Indonesian marine life affected by sinking of Ocean Princess: government

SAUL LOEB / AFP

US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, leaves a photo opportunity with the female Democratic members of the 116th Congress outside the US Capitol in Washington, DC, January 4, 2019.

America’s youngest congresswoman launches term with radical plan

WASHINGTON - Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez began her term as the youngest woman ever elected to the US Congress with a bang this week by proposing to tax the ultra-rich at 60 or 70 percent.

The daughter of hardscrabble working-class parents, the 29-year-old New Yorker was working toward making good on a campaign promise.

“People are going to have to pay their fair share of taxes,” she told CBS television’s “60 Minutes” on Sunday.

The proposal is part of an ambitious tax plan dubbed the “Green New Deal” that aims to eliminate carbon emissions by 2030.

The self-described Democratic Socialist, nicknamed AOC, suggested taxing the ultrawealthy up to 70 percent in order to finance the plan.

“You look at our tax rates back in the 60s and when you have a progressive tax rate system, your tax rate, let’s say, from zero to $75,000 may be 10 percent or

15 percent, et cetera,” OcasioCortez explained.

“But once you get to, like, the tippy tops, on your 10 millionth dollar, sometimes you see tax rates as high as 60 or 70 percent.

That doesn’t mean all $10 million are taxed at an extremely high rate. But it means that as you climb up this ladder you should be contributing more.”

The top marginal tax rate is now 37 percent, following President Donald Trump’s fiscal reforms. It was previously at 39.6 percent.

Even though it has little chance of success, the proposal backed by the young lawmaker has already garnered significant support.

It landed her on the front page of the New York Daily News, an

image of which Ocasio-Cortez was quick to retweet.

A Washington Post analysis found that if the approximately 16,000 Americans who earn more than $10 million each paid 70 percent income taxes for any revenue above that marker, the federal government would rake in around $72 billion per year.

But the sum would likely be much lower because individuals falling in that bracket would find ways to avoid the heavy tax burden.

In a New York Times op-ed, Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman backed OcasioCortez, rejecting “the constant effort to portray her as flaky and ignorant.”

“On the tax issue, she’s just saying what good economists say,” he added. (afp)

KUPANG - Oil tanker Ocean Princess that sank in the vicinity waters off Aemoli Village in eastern Indonesia on December 22, 2018 has affected the marine life of Pantar Strait and its surrounding waters, an official stated.

The East Nusa Tenggara provincial government`s marine and fishery authority has sent a team to observe the damages caused by the oil spill of the sinking vessel, Head of the East Nusa Tenggara Marine and Fishery Office Ganef Wurgiyanto noted here on Friday.

“The team members had completed their field investigation on Thursday afternoon, and their preliminary findings show that there are indeed damages to marine life of Selat Pantar Marine Park,” he noted.

The total amount of material losses for the environmental damages, caused by the tanker carrying diesel fuel from Timor Leste to Singapore, which capsized on December 22, 2018, has been calculated, Wurgiyanto revealed.

The amount of calculated material losses will immediately be submitted to the tanker`s owner to enable the corporate to get discharged for the environmental losses in accordance with existing regulations, he explained.

In response to whether the East Nusa Tenggara provincial government would file the case in court, Wurgiyanto revealed that his office merely demanded the payment for material losses without trial by considering that the sinking was categorized as an accident.

The ill-fated vessel sailing under the Cook Islands flag from the Timor Leste City of Dili to Singapore capsized in the vicinity waters off Alor Island of Alor District, East Nusa Tenggara Province, on Friday, December 22, 2018.

Carrying 18 crew members onboard, the tanker`s skipper is identified as Ahira Sroyer. (ant)

KPK chairman panelist for first debate of presidential candidates

YOGYAKARTA - Chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Agus Rahardjo has become one of the panelists for the first debate of presidential and vice presidential candidates for the 2019 presidential election.

The first debate will be held at Bidakara Hotel South Jakarta on January 17. “Yes, Agus Rahardjo becomes one of the panelists for the first debate,” KPU Chairman Arief Budiman stated here on Saturday.

The KPK finally appointed six people as panelists for the first debate of presidential and vice presidential candidates for the 2019 presidential election.

The appointees are KPK Chairman Rahardjo, constitutional law expert Margarito Kamis, international legal expert Hikmahanto Juwana, former chairman of the Supreme Court Bagir Manan, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) Ahmad Taufan Damanik, and lecturer for Constitutional and Administrative Law Bivitri Susanti.

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) had earlier called on the public to avoid spreading hoaxes and blasphemy ahead of the general election in 2019. “Let us avoid such blasphemy. We are close to (the elections); in three months, we will have the presidential election,” Jokowi stated.

All parties should maintain public order, he noted. “We should share anything related to politics in a peaceful way; thus, it will not create negative assumption among members of the public,” he remarked.

The president made the statement in response to fake news circulated on voted ballots being stored in seven containers in Tanjung Priok Port of Jakarta.

“That was a hoax. The ballots are yet to be printed, and we already receive such fake news,” he noted.

The president cautioned that such a situation would only increase negative thinking about fraud in the general elections. “Avoid issues related to hoaxes and blasphemy,” Jokowi remarked. (afp)

IBP/net

10

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Destination

Kehen Temple Ancient Temple in East Bali

BANGLI - Kehen Temple is an ancient Hindu temple complex boasting unique architectural features. The temple courtyard is reachable from ground level up a flight of 38 stairs, with carved sandstone mythical animal and Balinese folklore figure statues around the staircases and the central vestibule. The temple’s walls are also ornate with Chinese porcelain plates, which are a tribute to the historical relations between the local Bali kingdom and China. You can reach Kehen Temple within a 45 minute transfer from Ubud. The temple is located in the village of Cempaga, a cool upland region in the Bangli regency that is also famous for its local fruit plantations, palm sugar cottage industries and scenic rural countryside.

The primeval aura of this 11th century temple is further augmented by the overgrowth of centuries old banyan trees around the walls of the complex.

Within the inner courtyard of Kehen Temple are a collection of stone shrines built with multi-tiered thatched roofs and arranged in a typical layout similar to any other large temple complex in Bali. You can visit the temple in the daytime, and obliga-

tory sashes and waist cloths are available at the rental kiosk across the road (usually also with temple ‘donations’).

Best time to visit is when the temple is highly decorated, namely during its temple anniversary, with rare Balinese dances also as highlight.

Built in the 11th century, the Kehen temple is the biggest temple in East Bali and considered to be the finest as well. The temple complex is amid palm tree plantations which create a mystical atmosphere.Kehen means household or fireplace and symbolizes the fire god, Brahmen who protects the temple. Because it is an one of the most important temples in the region, many religious ceremonies take place here. It is a colorful sight to see the women carrying large fruit offerings up the stairs and during these ceremonies also different types of dances take place which are typical for the Bangli region. Before entering the temple you are expected to dress accordingly: legs should be covered and you have to wear a temple-scarf around the waist. If you are wearing shorts you can rent a sarong for a small donation, together with the temple scarf. In front of the temple there is

a booth where you can get a sarong and the Balinese man standing there is more than willing to answer any questions you have about the temple.

When you arrive at the entrance the first thing you see is the courtyard, which is shadowed by a huge banyan tree. This tree creates a nice cool climate and is considered sacred by the Balinese. A throne located in the north part of the courtyard is less obvious, but nevertheless very interesting to see. This stone carved lotus throne is dedicated to the three Hindu gods Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. The carvings are really exceptional for a Balinese temple. The turtle and the snake wrapped around on the base of the shrine symbolise the underworld.

The other carved figures represent Hindu figures, such as Shiva with his son Ganesha and Durga. Don’t forget to walk around the shrine to see all the remarkable carvings. Pura Kehen is easily reached from Ubud as it is located just 40 minutes north. If you are doing a day trip to the eastern part of the island then you are very likely to pass it as well. You will have wonderful rice field views during your journey to the temple. (IBP/net)

International

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

Timberwolves dominate depleted Lakers

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Lakers coach Luke Walton bemoaned a lack of passion from his players Sunday after they took a 108-86 beating from the Minnesota Timberwolves in Minneapolis.

The Lakers have now lost five of six games since superstar LeBron James suffered a groin injury in a Christmas Day victory over two-time defending NBA champions Golden State.

The three-time NBA champion is due to be reevaluated on Friday, and the Lakers were also again without injured Kyle Kuzma and Rajon Rondo.

With three key contributors absent, Walton said, he wanted to see more intensity from the players who were on the court.

“We need more passion, we need more fight,” Walton said. “That’s not scoring more, that’s more diving for loose balls, communicating loudly.

“It’s hard to win in this league when you’re healthy, so you’ve got to give double that effort when guys are down.”

The Timberwolves, led by Karl-Anthony Towns’s 28 points, 18 rebounds and four blocked shots, seized control immediately and led by 16 points after the first quarter.

They led by as many as 28, with Andrew Wiggins chipping in 28 points and five rebounds for a Minnesota team that had their own injury worries with Robert Covington and Derrick Rose both sidelined.

In his second game back from injury, Jeff Teague finished with a 15-point, 11-assist double-double and Taj Gibson added 12 points and 11 rebounds for the Timberwolves.

“I think offensively our guys were trying to play the right way, we just weren’t making shots,” Walton said of a first quarter in which the Timberwolves out-scored Los Angeles 35-19.

“But defensively it’s unacceptable that we let (them score) that many points. That’s the second game in a row a team has come in the first quarter and just scored at will on us.”

Only four Lakers players hit double digits, reserve Lance Stephenson leading the charge with 14.

Brandon Ingram added 13 points but connected on just five of 16 shots from the field. (afp)

Bernard Tomic and Nick Kyrgios

AFP PHOTO / William WEST

Australia bad-boy showdown to highlight Kooyong Classic

MELBOURNE - Nick Kyrgios will face off against Bernard Tomic for the first time as Australia’s most combustible pair battle for last-minute Grand Slam form at the Kooyong Classic from Tuesday.

Copyright 2019 NBAE David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images/AFP

Moritz Wagner #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers goes to the basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 6, 2019 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The three-day event, at the private club which served as the home of the Australian Open until 1988, is famed as a relatively stress-free preparation for the opening major of the year next week at Melbourne Park.

Kyrgios and Tomic will both count on lifting their games, with each suffering in his own way from burnout and lack of motivation.

Controversial Tomic could not even qualify for the Australian Open 12 months ago following a car-crash season, and faced a backlash after later boasting “I just count my millions”. His ranking is now back up to 51st.

Kyrgios, infamous for petulant behaviour and outbursts on court, ended his season early after arguing with an umpire at Shanghai then picking up an elbow injury in Moscow.

While Australia’s notorious

pair will not clash until Wednesday, organisers have lined up a tasty programme, leaving gaps for any late requests in case other top players want match practice under competitive conditions.

In 2018, both Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal played in oneoff exhibition matches.

The opening day line-up announced Monday includes American Jack Sock playing Tomic, Serb Filip Krajinovic taking on Damir Dzumhur of Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Australian Jason Kubler playing Janko Tipsarevic of Serbia.

The event once again features women’s matches, which were reintroduced in 2017 after more than two decades.

Day one sees rising American teenager Amanda Anisimova face Britain’s Katie Boulter, fresh from the Hopman Cup last week.

In addition a new format -- as used last week at the Hopman

Cup -- will see matches played as best of two sets with a third set, if necessary, a 10-point tiebreak.

The field is headed by top 10 players Marin Cilic and Wimbledon finalist Kevin Anderson.

World number seven Cilic did not play last week as he works to heal a knee problem while Anderson, ranked six, began 2019 with a title in Pune, India.

“The 2018 highlight for me was achieving some of the goals I had set for myself, specifically making London year-end finals, winning more than one tournament in the year, winning a 500 (series event), and of course making another Grand Slam final,” Anderson said.

“In 2019, I hope to continue pushing the boundaries. A big goal of mine is winning the Masters series, being in the finals there, and giving myself a shot at another Grand Slam.” (afp)

8

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

9

FA to probe Tottenham Ladies player’s ‘monkey noise’ claims

England’s governing Football Association is to investigate allegations of “monkey noises” made towards Tottenham Hotspur Ladies defender Renee Hector by an unnamed Sheffield United player.

Hector said the incident took place during Spurs’ 2-1 win away to the Blades on Sunday in the FA Women’s Championship, the division below the elite Women’s Super League.

“Such a shame that racism seems to be rising up again in football -- I received some monkey noises today from an opposition player,” the 23-year-old Hector tweeted after the match.

“The only reaction was to let the football do the talking and that we did, great start to the year!”

The FA later tweeted that it was “aware of an allegation of discriminatory abuse” during the match.

“We take all allegations of discrimination very seriously and will be making enquiries into the matter,” it added. Tottenham said Hector reported the incident to the referee during the game.

“The club is aware of allegations of racial abuse made by Renee Hector following (Sunday’s) victory at Sheffield United Women, that were reported to the referee by the player during the match,” a Spurs statement confirmed.

“We have since reported the alleged incident to the FA and await their response. We shall be making no further comment on the allegations at this time.”

GABRIEL BOUYS / AFP

Real Sociedad’s Spanish midfielder Ruben Pardo Gutierrez (L) scores his team’s second goal during the Spanish League football match between Real Madrid CF and Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on January 6, 2019.

Madrid slip 10 points behind Barcelona after shock defeat by Real Sociedad

Real Madrid may not even challenge for the title let alone win it as a shock 2-0 defeat at home to Real Sociedad on Sunday left them 10 points behind Barcelona in La Liga.

Barca took their advantage over their fiercest rivals into double figures by beating Getafe 2-1 while Atletico Madrid and Sevilla also gained on the European champions, despite earlier sharing a 1-1 draw.

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez’s goals were enough for Barca, for whom the weekend could hardly have gone better. Antoine Griezmann’s stunning free-kick earned Atletico a point at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. Madrid played with 10 men for half an hour after Lucas Vazquez was sent off but by then they already trailed to Willian Jose’s early penalty.

Ruben Pardo wrapped up a brilliant victory for La Real, who had won this fixture only once in their last 22 attempts. This was their first victory at the Santiago Bernabeu

since 2004 and then, Madrid fired coach Carlos Queiroz a day later.

Santiago Solari is not there yet, even if he was asked afterwards if he deserved to keep his job. “We fight to win the next game,” he said.

The honeymoon period Solari enjoyed in November though after replacing Julen Lopetegui is well and truly over. This loss, coming after the draw away to Villarreal on Wednesday, means Madrid sit fifth, outside even the Champions League places.

“Everything went against us today,” Solari said. “We did everything we could but the ball just would not go in.”

A stoney-faced Florentino Perez was among the 53,412 watching on, the club’s second lowest attendance of the season. “We will try to get them back,” Solari said,

before making a swift exit.

Barcelona have won seven out of the last 10 La Liga titles and now own a five-point cushion. If they are to slip up in 2019, Atletico or Sevilla would seem the ones able to take advantage.

Gareth Bale was missing with a calf injury but it was the 18-year-old Vinicius Junior that came in, not Isco, who is yet to start a league game under Solari.

La Real’s penalty was awarded after 75 seconds and converted after 150. Mikel Merino ghosted past Sergio Ramos and inside Marcelo.

Casemiro tried to cover but bundled Merino to the ground. Willian Jose went high and down the middle.

- Griezmann on target Karim Benzema spurned the best

of Madrid’s chances before the break, lashing wide with only Geronimo Rulli to beat.

Rulli was not needed then but he would be, many times. He denied Vinicius, Benzema and Luka Modric in quick succession. Ramos wanted a penalty for a push in his back but the appeal was desperate.

Vazquez clipped the post with a looping cross but that was not enough to hush the angry whistles at the end of the half.

The second period was frantic, with chances at both ends. La Real could have sealed it when Mikel Oyarzabal fired over and the weaving Januzaj twice went close.

Isco replaced Casemiro in the 57th minute and in the 61st Vazquez was sent off. A rash sliding challenge had earned a yellow card towards the end of the first half and even if the chip at Merino’s heels seemed harmless, he was foolish to take the risk.

Down to 10, Madrid still pushed and had a more convincing penalty appeal when Vinicius tumbled over the arm of Rulli. Referee Jose Munuera stood firm. The decision was “scandalous”, Ramos said later.

Januzaj should have wrapped it up when his shot was saved by the legs of Thibaut Courtois but Pardo did, heading in a cross from Willian Jose, who could even have made it three in injury time.

Defeat made Griezmann’s superb free-kick seem all the more valuable as the Frenchman’s fifth goal in as many games earned Atletico a point away to Sevilla. Wissam Ben Yedder had put Sevilla ahead.

Barca rode their luck as Getafe missed several chances to snatch a draw. Instead, Messi’s 399th La Liga goal and a sumptuous volley from Suarez did the job at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez, despite Jaime Mata giving Getafe hope.(afp)

- ‘Thorough investigation’ Sheffield United said it was aware of the allegations made on social media following the fixture. “We can advise that the club is conducting a thorough investigation into this matter,” it said.

Victory saw Spurs move to within a point of second-division leaders Manchester United.

Recent racist events in English football have centred on supporters turning on non-white male players, although Luis Suarez, then of Liverpool, was given an eight-game ban for racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra during a match in 2011.

In December, Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling, speaking after alleged racist abuse by a Chelsea fan at Stamford Bridge, said the media needed to examine the way it reported stories about certain black players.

Last month also saw a Tottenham fan fined and given a four-year football banning order by a court for throwing a banana skin at Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang during a 4-2 north London derby defeat at the Gunners’ Emirates Stadium.(afp)

Renee Hector

IBP/afp

JEFF PACHOUD / AFP

Andrezieux’ French coach Jean Noel Cabezas (R) celebrates with a player after winning the French Cup last-64 football match between Andrezieux-Boutheon and Olympique de Marseille at the Geoffroy Guichard stadium in Saint-Etienne, on January 6, 2019.

Garcia blasts ‘unacceptable’ Marseille after cup humiliation

Marseille coach Rudi Garcia lashed out at his “unacceptable” side after they were embarrassingly dumped out of the French Cup 2-0 by fourth-tier Andrezieux on Sunday, while Paris SaintGermain strolled past fifth division side Pontivy.

Goals from Bryan-Clovis Ngwabije in the 17th minute and Florian Milla seven minutes from the end humiliated Marseille, who last season reached the final of the Europa League, and left Garcia’s off-form side winless in seven matches.

“This is unacceptable,” Garcia said to reporters. “Well done to Andrezieux, who showed that they were a team that wanted it and fought together, something that we desperately lacked.”

PSG meanwhile comfortably beat Pontivy 4-0 despite a host of changes and performing well below their best, with both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe on the

scoresheet for the runaway Ligue 1 leaders, who were only a goal up at the break following an own goal for the unfortunate Sylvain Jule.

Julian Draxler completed the rout with three minutes left, latching onto a Neymar pass before clipping home.

In Saint-Etienne, Marseille had 28 shots on goal but couldn’t finish their chances and were punished by their lowly opponents on what Garcia called a “very bad day”.

Defender Ngwabije, who hadn’t scored a goal since the start of the season, told Eurosport that he had “dreamed” of making such a big impact.

Marseille’s poor recent run of form has seen them knocked out of both domestic cup competitions and the Europa League, which they exited at the group stage last month after picking up just one point from six matches

and finishing bottom of Group H. They are also a whopping 20 points behind PSG, but more importantly are five away from Lyon and the final Champions League place. Marseille join fellow Ligue 1 sides Montpellier, Nimes and Angers out of the cup.

Meanwhile Marseille’s next opponents Monaco, who are locked in a relegation battle, struggled to a 1-0 win over fifthtier Canet en Roussillon despite playing with a man extra for over 70 minutes.

Moussa Sylla’s second-minute strike ensured just the fifth win in all competitions for Thierry Henry’s side, who are secondfrom-bottom in Ligue 1.

Rennes avoided a minor shock after coming out on top 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out at home to Ligue 2 side Brest, who had taken a 2-1 league at the Roazhon Park before Ismaila Sarr levelled for the hosts after the break.(afp)

8

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

9

FA to probe Tottenham Ladies player’s ‘monkey noise’ claims

England’s governing Football Association is to investigate allegations of “monkey noises” made towards Tottenham Hotspur Ladies defender Renee Hector by an unnamed Sheffield United player.

Hector said the incident took place during Spurs’ 2-1 win away to the Blades on Sunday in the FA Women’s Championship, the division below the elite Women’s Super League.

“Such a shame that racism seems to be rising up again in football -- I received some monkey noises today from an opposition player,” the 23-year-old Hector tweeted after the match.

“The only reaction was to let the football do the talking and that we did, great start to the year!”

The FA later tweeted that it was “aware of an allegation of discriminatory abuse” during the match.

“We take all allegations of discrimination very seriously and will be making enquiries into the matter,” it added. Tottenham said Hector reported the incident to the referee during the game.

“The club is aware of allegations of racial abuse made by Renee Hector following (Sunday’s) victory at Sheffield United Women, that were reported to the referee by the player during the match,” a Spurs statement confirmed.

“We have since reported the alleged incident to the FA and await their response. We shall be making no further comment on the allegations at this time.”

GABRIEL BOUYS / AFP

Real Sociedad’s Spanish midfielder Ruben Pardo Gutierrez (L) scores his team’s second goal during the Spanish League football match between Real Madrid CF and Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on January 6, 2019.

Madrid slip 10 points behind Barcelona after shock defeat by Real Sociedad

Real Madrid may not even challenge for the title let alone win it as a shock 2-0 defeat at home to Real Sociedad on Sunday left them 10 points behind Barcelona in La Liga.

Barca took their advantage over their fiercest rivals into double figures by beating Getafe 2-1 while Atletico Madrid and Sevilla also gained on the European champions, despite earlier sharing a 1-1 draw.

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez’s goals were enough for Barca, for whom the weekend could hardly have gone better. Antoine Griezmann’s stunning free-kick earned Atletico a point at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. Madrid played with 10 men for half an hour after Lucas Vazquez was sent off but by then they already trailed to Willian Jose’s early penalty.

Ruben Pardo wrapped up a brilliant victory for La Real, who had won this fixture only once in their last 22 attempts. This was their first victory at the Santiago Bernabeu

since 2004 and then, Madrid fired coach Carlos Queiroz a day later.

Santiago Solari is not there yet, even if he was asked afterwards if he deserved to keep his job. “We fight to win the next game,” he said.

The honeymoon period Solari enjoyed in November though after replacing Julen Lopetegui is well and truly over. This loss, coming after the draw away to Villarreal on Wednesday, means Madrid sit fifth, outside even the Champions League places.

“Everything went against us today,” Solari said. “We did everything we could but the ball just would not go in.”

A stoney-faced Florentino Perez was among the 53,412 watching on, the club’s second lowest attendance of the season. “We will try to get them back,” Solari said,

before making a swift exit.

Barcelona have won seven out of the last 10 La Liga titles and now own a five-point cushion. If they are to slip up in 2019, Atletico or Sevilla would seem the ones able to take advantage.

Gareth Bale was missing with a calf injury but it was the 18-year-old Vinicius Junior that came in, not Isco, who is yet to start a league game under Solari.

La Real’s penalty was awarded after 75 seconds and converted after 150. Mikel Merino ghosted past Sergio Ramos and inside Marcelo.

Casemiro tried to cover but bundled Merino to the ground. Willian Jose went high and down the middle.

- Griezmann on target Karim Benzema spurned the best

of Madrid’s chances before the break, lashing wide with only Geronimo Rulli to beat.

Rulli was not needed then but he would be, many times. He denied Vinicius, Benzema and Luka Modric in quick succession. Ramos wanted a penalty for a push in his back but the appeal was desperate.

Vazquez clipped the post with a looping cross but that was not enough to hush the angry whistles at the end of the half.

The second period was frantic, with chances at both ends. La Real could have sealed it when Mikel Oyarzabal fired over and the weaving Januzaj twice went close.

Isco replaced Casemiro in the 57th minute and in the 61st Vazquez was sent off. A rash sliding challenge had earned a yellow card towards the end of the first half and even if the chip at Merino’s heels seemed harmless, he was foolish to take the risk.

Down to 10, Madrid still pushed and had a more convincing penalty appeal when Vinicius tumbled over the arm of Rulli. Referee Jose Munuera stood firm. The decision was “scandalous”, Ramos said later.

Januzaj should have wrapped it up when his shot was saved by the legs of Thibaut Courtois but Pardo did, heading in a cross from Willian Jose, who could even have made it three in injury time.

Defeat made Griezmann’s superb free-kick seem all the more valuable as the Frenchman’s fifth goal in as many games earned Atletico a point away to Sevilla. Wissam Ben Yedder had put Sevilla ahead.

Barca rode their luck as Getafe missed several chances to snatch a draw. Instead, Messi’s 399th La Liga goal and a sumptuous volley from Suarez did the job at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez, despite Jaime Mata giving Getafe hope.(afp)

- ‘Thorough investigation’ Sheffield United said it was aware of the allegations made on social media following the fixture. “We can advise that the club is conducting a thorough investigation into this matter,” it said.

Victory saw Spurs move to within a point of second-division leaders Manchester United.

Recent racist events in English football have centred on supporters turning on non-white male players, although Luis Suarez, then of Liverpool, was given an eight-game ban for racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra during a match in 2011.

In December, Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling, speaking after alleged racist abuse by a Chelsea fan at Stamford Bridge, said the media needed to examine the way it reported stories about certain black players.

Last month also saw a Tottenham fan fined and given a four-year football banning order by a court for throwing a banana skin at Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang during a 4-2 north London derby defeat at the Gunners’ Emirates Stadium.(afp)

Renee Hector

IBP/afp

JEFF PACHOUD / AFP

Andrezieux’ French coach Jean Noel Cabezas (R) celebrates with a player after winning the French Cup last-64 football match between Andrezieux-Boutheon and Olympique de Marseille at the Geoffroy Guichard stadium in Saint-Etienne, on January 6, 2019.

Garcia blasts ‘unacceptable’ Marseille after cup humiliation

Marseille coach Rudi Garcia lashed out at his “unacceptable” side after they were embarrassingly dumped out of the French Cup 2-0 by fourth-tier Andrezieux on Sunday, while Paris SaintGermain strolled past fifth division side Pontivy.

Goals from Bryan-Clovis Ngwabije in the 17th minute and Florian Milla seven minutes from the end humiliated Marseille, who last season reached the final of the Europa League, and left Garcia’s off-form side winless in seven matches.

“This is unacceptable,” Garcia said to reporters. “Well done to Andrezieux, who showed that they were a team that wanted it and fought together, something that we desperately lacked.”

PSG meanwhile comfortably beat Pontivy 4-0 despite a host of changes and performing well below their best, with both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe on the

scoresheet for the runaway Ligue 1 leaders, who were only a goal up at the break following an own goal for the unfortunate Sylvain Jule.

Julian Draxler completed the rout with three minutes left, latching onto a Neymar pass before clipping home.

In Saint-Etienne, Marseille had 28 shots on goal but couldn’t finish their chances and were punished by their lowly opponents on what Garcia called a “very bad day”.

Defender Ngwabije, who hadn’t scored a goal since the start of the season, told Eurosport that he had “dreamed” of making such a big impact.

Marseille’s poor recent run of form has seen them knocked out of both domestic cup competitions and the Europa League, which they exited at the group stage last month after picking up just one point from six matches

and finishing bottom of Group H. They are also a whopping 20 points behind PSG, but more importantly are five away from Lyon and the final Champions League place. Marseille join fellow Ligue 1 sides Montpellier, Nimes and Angers out of the cup.

Meanwhile Marseille’s next opponents Monaco, who are locked in a relegation battle, struggled to a 1-0 win over fifthtier Canet en Roussillon despite playing with a man extra for over 70 minutes.

Moussa Sylla’s second-minute strike ensured just the fifth win in all competitions for Thierry Henry’s side, who are secondfrom-bottom in Ligue 1.

Rennes avoided a minor shock after coming out on top 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out at home to Ligue 2 side Brest, who had taken a 2-1 league at the Roazhon Park before Ismaila Sarr levelled for the hosts after the break.(afp)

10

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Destination

Kehen Temple Ancient Temple in East Bali

BANGLI - Kehen Temple is an ancient Hindu temple complex boasting unique architectural features. The temple courtyard is reachable from ground level up a flight of 38 stairs, with carved sandstone mythical animal and Balinese folklore figure statues around the staircases and the central vestibule. The temple’s walls are also ornate with Chinese porcelain plates, which are a tribute to the historical relations between the local Bali kingdom and China. You can reach Kehen Temple within a 45 minute transfer from Ubud. The temple is located in the village of Cempaga, a cool upland region in the Bangli regency that is also famous for its local fruit plantations, palm sugar cottage industries and scenic rural countryside.

The primeval aura of this 11th century temple is further augmented by the overgrowth of centuries old banyan trees around the walls of the complex.

Within the inner courtyard of Kehen Temple are a collection of stone shrines built with multi-tiered thatched roofs and arranged in a typical layout similar to any other large temple complex in Bali. You can visit the temple in the daytime, and obliga-

tory sashes and waist cloths are available at the rental kiosk across the road (usually also with temple ‘donations’).

Best time to visit is when the temple is highly decorated, namely during its temple anniversary, with rare Balinese dances also as highlight.

Built in the 11th century, the Kehen temple is the biggest temple in East Bali and considered to be the finest as well. The temple complex is amid palm tree plantations which create a mystical atmosphere.Kehen means household or fireplace and symbolizes the fire god, Brahmen who protects the temple. Because it is an one of the most important temples in the region, many religious ceremonies take place here. It is a colorful sight to see the women carrying large fruit offerings up the stairs and during these ceremonies also different types of dances take place which are typical for the Bangli region. Before entering the temple you are expected to dress accordingly: legs should be covered and you have to wear a temple-scarf around the waist. If you are wearing shorts you can rent a sarong for a small donation, together with the temple scarf. In front of the temple there is

a booth where you can get a sarong and the Balinese man standing there is more than willing to answer any questions you have about the temple.

When you arrive at the entrance the first thing you see is the courtyard, which is shadowed by a huge banyan tree. This tree creates a nice cool climate and is considered sacred by the Balinese. A throne located in the north part of the courtyard is less obvious, but nevertheless very interesting to see. This stone carved lotus throne is dedicated to the three Hindu gods Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. The carvings are really exceptional for a Balinese temple. The turtle and the snake wrapped around on the base of the shrine symbolise the underworld.

The other carved figures represent Hindu figures, such as Shiva with his son Ganesha and Durga. Don’t forget to walk around the shrine to see all the remarkable carvings. Pura Kehen is easily reached from Ubud as it is located just 40 minutes north. If you are doing a day trip to the eastern part of the island then you are very likely to pass it as well. You will have wonderful rice field views during your journey to the temple. (IBP/net)

International

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

Timberwolves dominate depleted Lakers

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Lakers coach Luke Walton bemoaned a lack of passion from his players Sunday after they took a 108-86 beating from the Minnesota Timberwolves in Minneapolis.

The Lakers have now lost five of six games since superstar LeBron James suffered a groin injury in a Christmas Day victory over two-time defending NBA champions Golden State.

The three-time NBA champion is due to be reevaluated on Friday, and the Lakers were also again without injured Kyle Kuzma and Rajon Rondo.

With three key contributors absent, Walton said, he wanted to see more intensity from the players who were on the court.

“We need more passion, we need more fight,” Walton said. “That’s not scoring more, that’s more diving for loose balls, communicating loudly.

“It’s hard to win in this league when you’re healthy, so you’ve got to give double that effort when guys are down.”

The Timberwolves, led by Karl-Anthony Towns’s 28 points, 18 rebounds and four blocked shots, seized control immediately and led by 16 points after the first quarter.

They led by as many as 28, with Andrew Wiggins chipping in 28 points and five rebounds for a Minnesota team that had their own injury worries with Robert Covington and Derrick Rose both sidelined.

In his second game back from injury, Jeff Teague finished with a 15-point, 11-assist double-double and Taj Gibson added 12 points and 11 rebounds for the Timberwolves.

“I think offensively our guys were trying to play the right way, we just weren’t making shots,” Walton said of a first quarter in which the Timberwolves out-scored Los Angeles 35-19.

“But defensively it’s unacceptable that we let (them score) that many points. That’s the second game in a row a team has come in the first quarter and just scored at will on us.”

Only four Lakers players hit double digits, reserve Lance Stephenson leading the charge with 14.

Brandon Ingram added 13 points but connected on just five of 16 shots from the field. (afp)

Bernard Tomic and Nick Kyrgios

AFP PHOTO / William WEST

Australia bad-boy showdown to highlight Kooyong Classic

MELBOURNE - Nick Kyrgios will face off against Bernard Tomic for the first time as Australia’s most combustible pair battle for last-minute Grand Slam form at the Kooyong Classic from Tuesday.

Copyright 2019 NBAE David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images/AFP

Moritz Wagner #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers goes to the basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 6, 2019 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The three-day event, at the private club which served as the home of the Australian Open until 1988, is famed as a relatively stress-free preparation for the opening major of the year next week at Melbourne Park.

Kyrgios and Tomic will both count on lifting their games, with each suffering in his own way from burnout and lack of motivation.

Controversial Tomic could not even qualify for the Australian Open 12 months ago following a car-crash season, and faced a backlash after later boasting “I just count my millions”. His ranking is now back up to 51st.

Kyrgios, infamous for petulant behaviour and outbursts on court, ended his season early after arguing with an umpire at Shanghai then picking up an elbow injury in Moscow.

While Australia’s notorious

pair will not clash until Wednesday, organisers have lined up a tasty programme, leaving gaps for any late requests in case other top players want match practice under competitive conditions.

In 2018, both Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal played in oneoff exhibition matches.

The opening day line-up announced Monday includes American Jack Sock playing Tomic, Serb Filip Krajinovic taking on Damir Dzumhur of Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Australian Jason Kubler playing Janko Tipsarevic of Serbia.

The event once again features women’s matches, which were reintroduced in 2017 after more than two decades.

Day one sees rising American teenager Amanda Anisimova face Britain’s Katie Boulter, fresh from the Hopman Cup last week.

In addition a new format -- as used last week at the Hopman

Cup -- will see matches played as best of two sets with a third set, if necessary, a 10-point tiebreak.

The field is headed by top 10 players Marin Cilic and Wimbledon finalist Kevin Anderson.

World number seven Cilic did not play last week as he works to heal a knee problem while Anderson, ranked six, began 2019 with a title in Pune, India.

“The 2018 highlight for me was achieving some of the goals I had set for myself, specifically making London year-end finals, winning more than one tournament in the year, winning a 500 (series event), and of course making another Grand Slam final,” Anderson said.

“In 2019, I hope to continue pushing the boundaries. A big goal of mine is winning the Masters series, being in the finals there, and giving myself a shot at another Grand Slam.” (afp)

6

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Thousands stung in Australian jellyfish ‘invasion’

SYDNEY - Highly venomous jellyfish have stung more than three thousand people on Australia’s northeastern shores in just a few days, authorities said Monday, forcing the closure of several beaches.

The massive influx of Portuguese man o’ war jellyfish, whose stings are notoriously painful, has been described as an “invasion” by local media in the state of Queensland.

Coastguard association Surf Life Saving said a “whopping” 3,595 people had suffered painful burns after encounters with the creatures, also known as bluebottles for their transparent bluish appearance.

At least four major beaches remained closed as the organisation warned that even more jellyfish were on their way.

“A wall of bluebottles is approaching #Rainbow beach. Lifesavers are closing the beach. Please stay out of the water,” read one of several warnings from Surf Life Saving.

Bluebottle stings are a frequent occurrence and it is not uncommon to hear howls of pain from changing rooms along Australia’s eastern beaches during the southern hemisphere’s summer.

But the sheer number of people stung in the last few days has surprised authorities.

There are usually around 10,000 cases of bluebottle stings each year on the east coast of Australia, according to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

The extraordinary number of stings in the last few days has occurred as strong onshore winds have come in from the north-east, bringing the creatures into contact with swimmers.

The doctors’ group describes the symptoms of a sting as an “immediate sharp pain and acute inflammatory skin reaction”.

“The intense skin pain can last from minutes to many hours... The sting can also cause systemic signs such as nausea, vomiting and general feeling of malaise.” Treatment includes rinsing the wound with water at 45 degrees Celsius or using icepacks.

It is less straightforward to treat stings from the fearsome Irukandji variety of jellyfish, however.

Stings from these box jellyfish -- which can be smaller than a finger nail -- can cause acute muscular pain, violent vomiting, feelings of “impending doom”, hair that stands on end, strokes, heart failure and death within minutes. State-backed broadcaster ABC reported that the number of people taken to hospital with Irukandji stings in Queensland this season is already 20, double the normal yearly average. (afp)

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’...

From page 1

“And they are not just here tonight because they resonated with audiences Hollywood often ignores,” he said. “They are here because they told stories that resonated with everyone. And that is truly a beautiful thing.” King vowed that, for the next two years, she would only produce projects that employ 50 percent women, exclaiming: “Time’s Up times two!”

“And I just challenge anyone out there -- anyone out there who is in a position of power, not just in our industry, in all industries -- I challenge you to challenge yourselves and stand with us in solidarity and do the same,” she said.

- Bellwether of momentum This year, the Globes come at the start of voting for Oscar nominations, and while they are not always a clear predictor of Academy Award success, they are a bellwether of momentum.

In the acting categories, Glenn Close (“The Wife”) bested the favorite Lady Gaga on the drama side. Olivia

Colman, who plays Queen Anne in offbeat royal romp “The Favourite,” and Bale won as expected in the comedy acting races.

“Thank you to Satan for giving me inspiration for playing this role,” deadpanned Bale.

Bradley Cooper -- who plays the aging rocker opposite Gaga’s singer in “Star” -- had been favorite for best actor in a drama but was edged out

by Malek.

The television side of the Globes can feel a bit redundant coming so soon after the Emmys in September, with many of the same nominees as the Television Academy field.

Best drama series went to the acclaimed FX Cold War spy thriller “The Americans” -- its first Golden Globe for its sixth and final season.

But adding spice to the mix on Sunday are programs that aired too late for Emmys contention.

Netflix comedy “The Kominsky Method” took home the best comedy series trophy and best actor honors for Michael Douglas.(afp)

W

International

International

RLD

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

11

Indonesian marine life affected by sinking of Ocean Princess: government

SAUL LOEB / AFP

US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, leaves a photo opportunity with the female Democratic members of the 116th Congress outside the US Capitol in Washington, DC, January 4, 2019.

America’s youngest congresswoman launches term with radical plan

WASHINGTON - Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez began her term as the youngest woman ever elected to the US Congress with a bang this week by proposing to tax the ultra-rich at 60 or 70 percent.

The daughter of hardscrabble working-class parents, the 29-year-old New Yorker was working toward making good on a campaign promise.

“People are going to have to pay their fair share of taxes,” she told CBS television’s “60 Minutes” on Sunday.

The proposal is part of an ambitious tax plan dubbed the “Green New Deal” that aims to eliminate carbon emissions by 2030.

The self-described Democratic Socialist, nicknamed AOC, suggested taxing the ultrawealthy up to 70 percent in order to finance the plan.

“You look at our tax rates back in the 60s and when you have a progressive tax rate system, your tax rate, let’s say, from zero to $75,000 may be 10 percent or

15 percent, et cetera,” OcasioCortez explained.

“But once you get to, like, the tippy tops, on your 10 millionth dollar, sometimes you see tax rates as high as 60 or 70 percent.

That doesn’t mean all $10 million are taxed at an extremely high rate. But it means that as you climb up this ladder you should be contributing more.”

The top marginal tax rate is now 37 percent, following President Donald Trump’s fiscal reforms. It was previously at 39.6 percent.

Even though it has little chance of success, the proposal backed by the young lawmaker has already garnered significant support.

It landed her on the front page of the New York Daily News, an

image of which Ocasio-Cortez was quick to retweet.

A Washington Post analysis found that if the approximately 16,000 Americans who earn more than $10 million each paid 70 percent income taxes for any revenue above that marker, the federal government would rake in around $72 billion per year.

But the sum would likely be much lower because individuals falling in that bracket would find ways to avoid the heavy tax burden.

In a New York Times op-ed, Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman backed OcasioCortez, rejecting “the constant effort to portray her as flaky and ignorant.”

“On the tax issue, she’s just saying what good economists say,” he added. (afp)

KUPANG - Oil tanker Ocean Princess that sank in the vicinity waters off Aemoli Village in eastern Indonesia on December 22, 2018 has affected the marine life of Pantar Strait and its surrounding waters, an official stated.

The East Nusa Tenggara provincial government`s marine and fishery authority has sent a team to observe the damages caused by the oil spill of the sinking vessel, Head of the East Nusa Tenggara Marine and Fishery Office Ganef Wurgiyanto noted here on Friday.

“The team members had completed their field investigation on Thursday afternoon, and their preliminary findings show that there are indeed damages to marine life of Selat Pantar Marine Park,” he noted.

The total amount of material losses for the environmental damages, caused by the tanker carrying diesel fuel from Timor Leste to Singapore, which capsized on December 22, 2018, has been calculated, Wurgiyanto revealed.

The amount of calculated material losses will immediately be submitted to the tanker`s owner to enable the corporate to get discharged for the environmental losses in accordance with existing regulations, he explained.

In response to whether the East Nusa Tenggara provincial government would file the case in court, Wurgiyanto revealed that his office merely demanded the payment for material losses without trial by considering that the sinking was categorized as an accident.

The ill-fated vessel sailing under the Cook Islands flag from the Timor Leste City of Dili to Singapore capsized in the vicinity waters off Alor Island of Alor District, East Nusa Tenggara Province, on Friday, December 22, 2018.

Carrying 18 crew members onboard, the tanker`s skipper is identified as Ahira Sroyer. (ant)

KPK chairman panelist for first debate of presidential candidates

YOGYAKARTA - Chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Agus Rahardjo has become one of the panelists for the first debate of presidential and vice presidential candidates for the 2019 presidential election.

The first debate will be held at Bidakara Hotel South Jakarta on January 17. “Yes, Agus Rahardjo becomes one of the panelists for the first debate,” KPU Chairman Arief Budiman stated here on Saturday.

The KPK finally appointed six people as panelists for the first debate of presidential and vice presidential candidates for the 2019 presidential election.

The appointees are KPK Chairman Rahardjo, constitutional law expert Margarito Kamis, international legal expert Hikmahanto Juwana, former chairman of the Supreme Court Bagir Manan, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) Ahmad Taufan Damanik, and lecturer for Constitutional and Administrative Law Bivitri Susanti.

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) had earlier called on the public to avoid spreading hoaxes and blasphemy ahead of the general election in 2019. “Let us avoid such blasphemy. We are close to (the elections); in three months, we will have the presidential election,” Jokowi stated.

All parties should maintain public order, he noted. “We should share anything related to politics in a peaceful way; thus, it will not create negative assumption among members of the public,” he remarked.

The president made the statement in response to fake news circulated on voted ballots being stored in seven containers in Tanjung Priok Port of Jakarta.

“That was a hoax. The ballots are yet to be printed, and we already receive such fake news,” he noted.

The president cautioned that such a situation would only increase negative thinking about fraud in the general elections. “Avoid issues related to hoaxes and blasphemy,” Jokowi remarked. (afp)

IBP/net

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International

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Bali News

International

US employers went on a surprising hiring spree in December The job gains reported Friday by the Labor Department came despite a trade war with China, a global slowdown and a partial government shutdown now entering its third week.

The nation’s unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.9 percent last month, but that, too, was considered a positive sign, reflecting an increase in Americans beginning to look for work. And average hourly pay improved 3.2 percent from a year ago.

Stocks surged on the news, along with word that the U.S. and China will hold trade talks next week and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell that the Fed will be flexible in judging whether to raise interest rates further.

The Dow Jones industrial average shot up 747 points, or 3.3 percent.

President Donald Trump called the job growth “GREAT” on Twitter.

The torrid hiring in December far outstripped the 180,000 jobs investors had been anticipating and could help ease fears that the economy’s expansion — now in the middle of its 10th year — may be coming to an end.

“The labor market is very strong even though the economy appears to be slowing,” said Eric Winograd, senior U.S. economist at the investment management firm AllianceBern-

stein. “Those two things cannot coexist for very long. Either weakening demand will lead firms to dial back the pace of hiring or the robust pace of hiring will lead firms to ramp back up production.”

In recent weeks, financial markets have plunged amid concerns that the U.S. could be in a recession by 2020. The Dow suffered its worst December since the middle of the Depression in 1931.

Major companies such as Apple say their sales are being jeopardized by the tariff war between Washington and Beijing, and an important gauge of U.S. manufacturing posted its steepest decline in a decade Thursday.

China, the world’s second-largest economy, is also mired in a slowdown, its consumers losing much of their appetite for real estate, iPhones, Ford vehicles and jewelry from Tiffany & Co. The U.S. government shutdown and Trump’s attacks on the Fed and its chairman over the central bank’s rate increases have also worried investors, though Powell may have eased some of those concerns Friday when he stressed that he would not resign if the president told him to do so.

The strong job growth suggests employers believe U.S. consumer spending will stay robust.

Health care and education added 82,000 jobs last month, the largest jump in nearly nine years. Restaurants and drinking places posted a net gain of 40,700 jobs. Builders added 38,000 construction jobs, while manufacturers increased their payrolls by 32,000 workers.

Businesses are still searching for more workers.

Fresh Coat Painters, based in Cincinnati, plans to nearly double the 300 employees who paint homes and businesses as it expands this year across this country. The franchiser is also launching an apprenticeship program to attract workers, in addition to providing higher pay and benefits.

Tara Riley, president of Fresh Coat, said that franchise owners are having to actively search for workers instead of simply posting ads.

“We realized it was a mindset change: You have to be recruiting, rather than hiring,” Riley said.

Still, Kevin Hassett, chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, cautioned on Thursday that the jobs report for January could be weak if the shutdown continues.

Job totals could be lowered by hundreds of thousands of government employees being temporarily put out of work.

“So when we see the January jobs number, it could be a big negative,” Hassett said. In 2018, employers added 2.6 million jobs, or an average of nearly 220,000 a month, according to the Labor Department.

At some point, even if the economy remains healthy, monthly job gains will likely downshift to a more gradual pace. This is because there is a dwindling pool of unemployed people. There were 6.3 million people looking for a job in December, down from 6.5 million a year ago.

“People should not get used to numbers like the one we saw this month,” said Martha Gimbel, director of economic research at the jobs site Indeed. “Eventually, job growth is going to start slowing down. When that happens, we shouldn’t panic.” (ap)

AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File

In this Nov. 2, 2017, file photo a recruiter from the postal service, right, speaks with an attendee of a job fair in the cafeteria of Deer Lakes High School in Cheswick, Pa. Even with fear of a global economic slump depressing stock markets, Friday, Jan. 4, 2019 jobs report for December is expected to offer reassurance that the U.S. economy remains sturdy and on track to expand for a 10th straight year.

After celebrating the Galungan Day, the victory of dharma against adharma or the victory of Jayatiga against Kalatiga, the Hindu community in Bali then celebrates Kuningan falling on the Saniscara Kliwon Kuningan or Saturday (Nov. 11). The Kuningan festival begins with a ritual ceremony by slaughtering animals for offerings.

IBP/net

Gunung Lebah Temple

Gunung Lebah Temple is a historic temple which stands on a protruded rock in Ubud. The temple was built in the 8th century and is popular tourist attraction.

The name of this temple translates to ‘small hill’ in the local dialect, a fact that can be attributed to its location at the valley where the tributaries of Sungai Cerik merge.

Located about 2 kms west of the popular Ubud market, Gunung Lebah Temple is associated with the origins of the tourist town Ubud. Enthralled by the picturesque valley and the soothing waters of the two rivers, the High Priest Rsi Markendya decided to build a temple on the grounds, which is today known as Pura Gunung Lebah.

The temple, which remains open 24 hours a day, allows both visitors and pilgrims on a quest for a deeper meaning. To get to the temple, visitors need to access Jl Raya Campuan as the temple is off this road. For the best views, it is advisable to visit the temple in the morning. At this time, the temple is not packed with tourists, and you can enjoy the solitude for a moment or two of reflection.

On arrival, visitors are asked to donate at the temple as part of entrance fees (usually between 10,000-20,000 IDR is appropriate).

Visitors must ensure that they wear a sarong to cover knees and ankles.

Also make sure that shoulders and midriffs are covered. If you do not have your own sarong, you can hire one at the entrance for around 15,000 IDR. Like most of the ancient temples in Ubud, Pura Gunung Lebah is beautifully set among lush natural settings. It’s surrounded by bamboo forests, with the Campuhan River flowing below it. It’s positioned at a good distance away from the main road and at a low elevation.

5

Kuningan Feast, Descent of Deities to Increase Prosperity Graces

BUSINESS

WASHINGTON — U.S. employers went on a hiring spree in December, adding a surprising 312,000 jobs and providing a dose of reassurance about the economy after a turbulent few months on Wall Street.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

The temple is quite hushed from the hubbubs of traffic, which helps provide pilgrims a sense of calm during their prayers.

The temple has close spiritual ties to Batur Temple in the namesake mountain. Batur is around a 90-minute drive up north in the central highlands. Gunung Lebah itself honours the goddess of Batur, and is tribute to the deified founding ancestors of Ubud. The temple complex comprises three courtyards. You can easily enter the first outer courtyard and admire its Balinese temple features.

You’ll instantly see the towering shrines of the ‘Padmasana’ from the centre. The two inner courtyards are usually open during ceremonies. However, you can try your luck anytime while paying close attention to proper temple attire (a sarong and sash around your waist at a minimum). Inside, you’ll find the Bale Gong or gamelan pavilion where the orchestra is staged to accompany ceremonies. Dancers also usually prepare to perform here.

A majestic Bale Kulkul tower houses the temple’s wooden bell.

The complex’s main shrines feature varying numbers of roof tiers. There are also resting pavilions for devotees. You can find Pura Gunung Lebah temple at the eastern end of Ubud’s landmark Campuhan bridge. You can easily see the towering shrines and the courtyard through the high foliage from above.

It’s possible to walk down to the temple from most of the hotels in the immediate area. The closest is the Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas & Spa. The pathway to the right of the temple leads you down to the scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk.

You can enjoy a pleasant light trek or a refreshing jog with lush green views over the Campuhan valley on this trail. (ibp)

Dr. Ketut Sumadi, a lecturer at the IHDN Denpasar, said that before celebrating Kuningan, the Hindu community in Bali holds a ceremony named Pemacekan Agung on Monday after Galungan and before Kuningan. This holy day of pemacekan agung means that devotees may not be careless, must always attempt that jaya tiga is always strong within. Pemacekan Agung means that human should be really a strong person in order to be able to carry out activities, according to the tasks and obligation.

The day before Kuningan, Hindus celebrate Penampahan Kuningan whose procession is the same as Galungan, namely starting to do self-purification, so that it is symbolized with animal (pigs or chickens) slaughtering. “It means to increase again self-awareness so as not to be tease by the kala tiga. Therefore, one needs to strengthen himself to overcome the temptations of life. Philosophically, when doing self-contemplation we increase self-consciousness by denuding ourselves.

Sadripu as the six internal enemies can sometimes

make us forget,” he explained.

Sumadi asserted that on Kuningan Day the ancestors and deities come down to earth as well as bestow prosperity for humanity. On that account, the characteristic offerings presented are yellow rice coming with tamiang, ter (arrow) and endongan. They symbolize the weapons as self-protection for the next life based on the holy and useful knowledge.

On Kuningan, all worships must be completed before midday because it is the culmination of understanding that means never to stop before reaching the peak. After that, it just continues. It is the reason why the Hindus offer yellow oblations symbolizing the summit of happiness, the struggle of life that must be successful. Meanwhile, the worship is dedicated to Mahadev as the god of happiness.

On the feast of Kuningan, explained Dr. Sumadi, mankind has achieved happiness and always increases the creativity and innovation. Moreover, Bali as a world’s tourist destination makes people more creative.

“During the festivities, we seem to rejoice, marked with cultural performance such as ngelawang or street show. That’s why, in the past each hamlet had barong bangkung art troupe as well as other arts,” he said.

The next day is usually celebrated with tirtayatra or pilgrimage the increase faith and devotion to God Almighty. On that account, Hindu devotees do worship to temples. It is also resumed with social visit to relatives and friends. (kmb)

IBP/wawan

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Bali News

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

Tabanan currently has 24 tourism villages. Most of these tourism villages have started to run and are active even though the visit cannot be said to be crowded.

13

Malaysian royals prepare to pick king after historic abdication

Tabanan has 24 tourism villages, breakthrough needed to increase visits

TABANAN — Tabanan currently has 24 tourism villages.

Most of these tourism villages have started to run and are active even though the visit cannot be said to be crowded. On that account, to increase tourist visit to villages this requires a new breakthrough and a process.

Head of the Tabanan Tourism Office, I Made Yasa, said some time ago that out of 24 tourism villages in Tabanan, several villages began to develop and had already received tourist visits such as the Pinge and Nyambu tourism village. He admitted that in general to attract tourists to

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

come to tourism villages is not easy, and requires a process. “Indeed, at first it is difficult because the tourism villages offered are new destinations.

Therefore, it must be introduced to the tourists first. Definitely, there is a new breakthrough to make typical characteristic of the tourism village

itself,” he said.

He continued that the most important thing applied in running a tourism village is the participation of the community being proud of the difference in the clean village, while at the same time applying the Sapta Pesona (Seven Charms) and Tri Hitakarana or the concept of harmony. ’’Previously, a number of similar conditions were also experienced by tourist attractions in Tabanan such as the Tanah Lot, and Ulun Danu Beratan. These objects at first also experienced a quiet visit, but

over time when being accompanied with promotions, the visits to these attractions experienced a surge in trends,” he said.

Learning from this experience, Yasa said that his office will also continue to help encourage and promote tourism villages in Tabanan.

Currently, there are 14 tourism villages having been assisted to repair infrastructure in the form of making footpaths. Meanwhile, to prepare human resources of the tourism villages, his office has responded by holding

tourism resource training.

Yasa hoped that every tourism village in Tabanan district can create a book covering the ins and outs of the tourism villages in question.

Later on, the book can be made into a benchmark for tour guides of relevant tourism villages posing the local community.

“Based on the book, local tour guides can tell the uniqueness about their respective village, both in terms of their natural beauty, culture and others,” he concluded. (kmb24)

Tourists throng Taman Ayun attraction

IBP/kmb

Residents were seen flocking to visit the natural attractions of Sangeh, Taman Ayun, and Taman Mumbul.

MANGUPURA — Visiting a tourist attraction is the main purpose of Balinese people, especially in Badung district when celebrating holiday after Kuningan Day on Sunday (Jan. 6).

Residents were seen flocking to visit the natural attractions of Sangeh, Taman Ayun, and Taman Mumbul.

The beauty of the natural panorama seemed to be a magnet for visitors, both for local Badung residents and local tourists in filling in their post Kuningan holiday. They were sitting relaxingly with family, friends, relatives and others. Moreover, a number of residents just took photos to capture the moment.

Ketut Sadia, one of the visitors, said that he intentionally came with his family because he wanted to take a vacation. According to the man who wore middle customary clothes, Taman Ayun is quite comfortable, so he stays for a long time.

“This object is always crowded from the past time. On Galungan, Umanis Galungan, Kuningan and

the day after Kuningan are always crowded. Similarly, such condition also occurs after Nyepi or Day of Silence celebration,” he said.

Operations Manager of Taman Ayun attraction, Made Suandi, said that it had become a habit that Taman Ayun is thronged by visitors every six months. By all means, local visitors dominate the visit every six months on Galungan and the day after Kuningan.

“It must be crowded with local Bali visitors. This has become a tradition every six months,” he said.

According to him, the crowded visitors after Kuningan Day was also influenced by the impromptu market in the west of Taman Ayun. A number of food merchants selling their products were placed right in front of the Yadnya Museum.

“The merchants are only given the opportunity for one day, tomorrow they will be gone due to being temporary in nature. Similarly, the parking also lasts temporarily. Later,

on normal days it will return to normal. At least, there is contributions to the local community,” he explained.

He admitted, there are thousands of people making a visit on the day after Kuningan celebration. On that account, he hoped that visitors will maintain cleanliness and beauty. “If it’s crowded like today, we have to be tolerant to the community because it just lasts temporarily,” he affirmed.

Regarding the tourist visit on regular day, it also showed an increase reaching more than 1,000 foreign tourists each day. Domestic tourists also reach 250 people per day. Meanwhile, the price of admission ticket is also different, where for foreign tourist costs IDR 20,000 per person, while for domestic tourist costs IDR 10,000 per person.

“Indeed, the tourist visit shows an increase of 10 percent. This has started to increase from a week ago. Well, hopefully it will continue to increase,” he concluded. (kmb27)

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia’s royals prepared Monday to pick a new king to replace Sultan Muhammad V, who abdicated in a historic first after reportedly marrying a Russian former beauty queen, holding a special gathering at the national palace.

The king stepped aside Sunday following intense speculation about his future after reports surfaced in recent weeks that he had taken medical leave, and then wed the former Miss Moscow.

As the country reacted with shock to the news, Malaysia’s Islamic royal families set about the task of electing a new king to replace Muhammad V, 49, who gave up the throne just two years into his term.

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy, with a unique arrangement where the throne changes hands every five years between rulers of the country’s nine states headed by centuries-old Islamic royalty.

The royal households take it in turn to provide the country’s king, and it is usually known before the formal election who will become the monarch.

While their role is ceremonial, Malaysia’s royalty command great respect, especially from Muslim Malays, and criticising them is strictly forbidden.

A special meeting of the rulers was held at the palace in Kuala Lumpur to set a date for a new king to be elected, official news agency Bernama reported.

It will happen in the coming weeks, with the new king expected to serve a full, five-year term.

The national palace did not respond to requests for comment.

Sultan Nazrin Shah of northern Perak state is the acting king, local media reported. He is the current deputy king and performed Muhammad V’s duties after he went on medical leave at the start of November.

Despite mounting speculation in recent days the king might give up the throne, there was still palpable shock in the Muslim-majority country at the first abdication of a king since the end of British rule in 1957.

“I am naturally stunned. The (king) is a man of the people,” Siti Nur Fahimah Razali, a 25-year-old trader from the king’s home state of Kelantan, told the New Straits Times newspaper.

Among those wishing the former king well was scandal-plagued former premier Najib Razak, who wrote in a Facebook post: “We Malaysians pray for his health and that he is protected by Allah.

Long live the king!”

But there had been growing unease after reports emerged in foreign media in late November -- several weeks after the king went on leave -- that he had married the Russian, Oksana Voevodina.

Royal officials in Malaysia have not so far commented on the reported marriage. (afp)

Mohd RASFAN / AFP

This file photo taken on July 17, 2018 shows the 15th king of Malaysia, Sultan Muhammad V, saluting a royal guard of honour during the opening ceremony of the parliament in Kuala Lumpur.

AFP

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gestures while speaking at a press conference in Dhaka on December 31, 2018.

Hasina to be sworn in as Bangladesh PM after ‘tainted’ polls

DHAKA - Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as Bangladeshi prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging.

Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism.

Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition.

The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.

Seventeen people were killed on election day.

The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying “significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote.”

The United States expressed concern about “credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence”.

The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that “reprisals” have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests,

harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases.

The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright.

- ‘Mother of humanity’ To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh’s “mother of humanity” for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017.

Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian antipress freedom laws to try to cling to power.

Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh’s first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons.

She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami

League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

Hasina joined forces with Zia’s BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the “Battling Begums”.

Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years.

Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest.

She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges.

She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six percent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 percent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

She was due to be sworn in at 3:30 pm (0930 GMT) along with a 47-member cabinet that includes many new faces. (afp)

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Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Science

A new way to genetically tweak photosynthesis boosts plant growth

CANBERRA - A genetic hack to make photosynthesis more efficient could be a boon for agricultural production, at least for some plants.

This feat of genetic engineering simplifies a complex, energy-expensive operation that many plants must perform during photosynthesis known as photorespiration. In field tests, genetically modifying tobacco in this way increased plant growth by over 40 percent. If it produces similar results in other crops, that could help farmers meet the food demands of a growing global population, researchers report in the Jan. 4 Science.

Streamlining photorespiration is “a great step forward in efforts to enhance photosynthesis,” says Spencer Whitney, a plant biochemist at Australian National University in Canberra not involved in the work.

Now that the agricultural industry has mostly optimized the use of yield-boosting tools like pesticides, fertilizers and irrigation, researchers are trying to micromanage and improve plant growth by designing ways to make photosynthesis more efficient (SN: 12/24/16, p. 6).

Photorespiration is a major roadblock to achieving such efficiency. It occurs in many plants, such as soybeans, rice and wheat, when an enzyme called Rubisco — whose main job is to help transform carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into sugars that fuel plant growth — accidentally snatches an oxygen molecule out of the atmosphere instead.

That Rubisco-oxygen interaction, which happens about 20 percent of the time, generates the toxic compound glycolate, which a plant must recycle into useful molecules through photorespiration. This processes comprises a long chain of chemical reactions that span four compartments in a plant cell. All told, completing a cycle of photorespiration is like driving from Maine to Florida by way of California.

That waste of energy can cut crop yields by 20 to 50 percent, depending on plant species and environmental conditions.

Using genetic engineering, researchers have now designed a more direct chemical pathway for photorespiration that is confined to a single cell compartment — the cellular equivalent of a Maine-to-Florida road trip straight down the East Coast.

Paul South, a molecular biologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Urbana, Ill., and colleagues embedded genetic directions for this shortcut, written on pieces of algae and pumpkin DNA, in tobacco plant cells. The researchers also genetically engineered the cells to not produce a chemical that allows glycolate to travel between cell compartments to prevent the glycolate from taking its normal route through the cell.

Unlike previous experiments with human-designed photorespiration pathways, South’s team tested its photorespiration detour in plants grown in fields under real-world farming conditions. Genetically altered tobacco produced 41 percent more biomass than tobacco that hadn’t been modified.

“It’s very exciting” to see how well this genetic tweak worked in tobacco, says Veronica Maurino, a plant physiologist at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf in Germany not involved in the research, but “you can’t say, ‘It’s functioning. Now it will function everywhere.’”

Experiments with different types of plants will reveal whether this photorespiration fix creates the same benefits for other crops as it does for tobacco. South’s team is currently running greenhouse experiments on potatoes with the new set of genetic modifications, and plans to do similar tests with soybeans, black-eyed peas and rice.

The vetting process for such genetic modifications to be approved for use on commercial farms, including more field testing, will probably take at least another five to 10 years, says Andreas Weber, a plant biochemist also at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf who coauthored a commentary on the study that appears in the same issue of Science. In the meantime, he expects that researchers will continue trying to design even more efficient photorespiration shortcuts, but South’s team “has now set a pretty high bar.” (net)

IBP/net

Field tests with plants under real-world farming conditions have revealed how tweaking plants’ genetic instructions for a process called photorespiration increases crop yield.

International

Bali News

International

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

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IBP/net

Feedlots hold a lot of animals — and that means a lot of urine, which releases ammonia into the atmosphere. A new satellite technique can pinpoint feedlots and other major sources of ammonia emissions.

Satellites make mapping hot spots of ammonia pollution easier

BRUSSELS - Satellites may be a more accurate way to track smog-producing ammonia.

It’s notoriously tricky to pinpoint accurate numbers for ammonia gas emissions from sources such as animal feedlots and fertilizer plants. But new maps, generated from infrared radiation measurements gathered by satellites, reveal global ammonia hot spots in greater detail than before. The new data suggest that previous estimates underestimate the magnitude of these emissions, researchers report December 5 in Nature.

In the atmosphere, ammonia, which contains nitrogen, can help form tiny particles that worsen air quality and harm human health. The research could help keep tabs on who’s emitting how much, to make sure that factories and farms are meeting environmental standards.

Emissions are usually estimated by adding up output from individual known sources of activity, but those calculations are only as good as the data that go into them. Ammonia sticks around only hours to a few days in the atmosphere, so on-the-ground measurements vary a lot even in the same place, says coauthor Martin Van Damme, an atmospheric scientist at the Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium.

“There’s so much uncertainty in ammonia emissions,” says Daven Henze, a mechanical engineer at the University of Colorado Boulder who wasn’t part of the research. Other scientists, including his research group, have estimated ammonia releases using satellite data before. But these new maps rely on a more detailed dataset and have substantially better resolu-

tion, Henze says — fine enough that the study authors were able to link areas of high emissions to specific factories or farms.

The new maps show 248 nitrogen emission hot spots across the globe at a resolution of about a kilometer. Eighty-three of those hot spots arose from agricultural activity that involved high numbers of cows, pigs and chickens, such as a site in Colorado that overlapped on satellite imagery maps with two big cattle feedlots.

Ammonia emissions from feedlots come largely from livestock waste. Another 158 sites were affected by industrial emissions — mostly from sites that produced ammonia-based fertilizer, such as in Marvdasht, Iran. Six hot spots couldn’t be pinned to specific activity.

Ammonia is also emitted naturally, from volcanoes or seabird colonies. But most of those sources were too weak or not concentrated enough to show up as hot spots in the data. Lake Natron in Tanzania is the one exception — its mud flats show up as an ammonia-releasing hot spot, perhaps due to decaying algae. But it’s not clear why other lakes with similar mud flats didn’t. Some natural sources may have gone undetected because of where they were located — in places with heavy cloud cover that obscured the data, or where turbulent air dissipated ammonia especially quickly, Van Damme suggests.

Some areas with particularly high overall ammonia emissions from biomass burning or fertilizer, such as West Africa and the Indus Valley in Pakistan and northern India, didn’t reveal specific hot spots, either, the researchers report. (net)

IBP/kmb

Pertamina would continue to regularly evaluate the fuel prices in accordance with the dynamics of crude oil prices and the rupiah exchange rate in the global market.

Prices of non-subsidized fuel go down

JAKARTA — In keeping with the decline in the average price of world crude oil and the strengthening of the rupiah against the US dollar, PT Pertamina (Persero) made price adjustments to non-subsidized fuel with varying amounts.

Managing Director of Pertamina, Nicke Widyawati, said the price adjustments made by Pertamina are in accordance with the prevailing mechanisms and regulations. “We have coordinated with relevant agencies to provide the best services for the community, especially loyal

customers of Pertamina products,” said Nicke.

Meanwhile, Director of Retail Marketing, Masud Khamid, added the price adjustment of the nonsubsidized fuel will take effect from Saturday (Jan. 5) at 00:00. The type of fuel undergoing price adjustments

are Pertalite dropping by IDR 150 per liter, Pertamax dropping by IDR 200 per liter, Pertamax Turbo dropping by IDR 250 per liter, Dexlite dropping

by IDR 200 per liter, and Dex dropping by IDR 100 per liter. New prices applying in several regions may vary because they are affected by differ-

ences in the amount of motor vehicle fuel tax (PBBKB) in the region.

As an illustration, the Jabodetabek region had the adjustment of Pertalite from IDR.7,800 to IDR 7,650, Pertamax from IDR 10,400 to IDR10,200, Pertamax Turbo from IDR12,250 to IDR 12,000, Dexlite from IDR 10,500 to IDR 10,300, Dex from IDR 11,850 to IDR 11,750.

Masud added that Pertamina

would continue to regularly evaluate the fuel prices in accordance with the dynamics of crude oil prices and the rupiah exchange rate in the global market. Pertamina hoped the price adjustment can increase the loyalty of people having already become regular customers of Pertamina’s product. At the same time, it becomes the company’s efforts to invite the public to use quality fuel products. (kmb42)

Australian tourist visit ranked first, followed by Chinese

DENPASAR - Australian tourists returned to occupy first position of the visit to Bali, while Chinese tourist visit declined 37.51 percent, ranked second. Although Chinese tourists declined sharply, tourist arrivals in November 2018 increased by 12.80 percent (yoy). However, when compared to October 2018, tourist visits to Bali fell by 21.37 percent.

This was conveyed by the Head of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Bali, Adi Nugroho. The highest tourist growth to Bali in November 2018 was Singaporean tourists, namely 52.97 percent, in the second position was Japan and the United States 40.42 percent, and then India at 35.59 percent and Malaysia (30.97 percent). If sorted by the number of tourists, the highest visit was achieved by Australia with 87,344 people, China (73,822 people), India (28,639 people), Japan (9,357 people) and the United States (18,989 people).

Deputy Chairman of the Central Executive Board of Indonesia Hotel General Managers Association

(IHGMA), I Made Ramia Adnyana, said that due to the decline of the Chinese market to the second position is related to the chaotic Chinese shops in Bali that were closed due to illegal operations. This resulted in many cancellations of flight charter to Bali because Chinese agencies no longer received any subsidies from the closed shops. China’s drop in the market occurs in the fourth quarter of 2018 so that the impact is very significant on the total visit to Bali placing the Chinese market in the second place after Australia. However, in 2019 he believed that Chinese market will return, certainly with better quality, spending power and length of stay.

Meanwhile, the Australian is traditional market of Bali and is often referred to as “Bread & Butter” which means that Bali is the preferred destination and favorite for Australian tourists. “This is what must be maintained with consistent promotion,” he said.

Likewise, Europe, Russia and Japan must also be worked on consistently so as to maintain Bali as a

favorite destination considering they are quality market with long spending power and length of stay while in Bali.

The market is also very concerned about the environment and local culture. So, for sustainable tourism, Bali must focus on the markets as well as the traditional market. Of course, it is a new hope in the New Era of Bali as the most favorite tourist destination in the world.

Co-Founder of Pramana Experience, I Nyoman Sudirga Yusa, managing around 30 properties, said the most foreign tourists coming to Ubud are European especially the United Kingdom reaching 73 percent. During low season conditions, the visit of European tourists to Ubud remains stable, where the room occupancy rate was closed at 87 percent in November 2018.

The government targeted to bring in 20 million foreign tourists, where Chinese tourists are most in total.

However, currently the most tourists coming to Ubud are Europeans.

Indeed, from the 1920s, European guests first built the Ubud destination

mostly consisting of European artists such as Arie Smith, Bonnet and Antonio Blanco. “Ubud is indeed a strong European base because Ubud was already famous in Europe from that year,” he said.

European tourists better appreci-

ated to Balinese culture and customs.

“They love culture more. Once talking about culture, they must get interested,” he said. Money spending of European tourist is the same as that of Australian and American markets. (kmb42)

IBP/kmb

Australian tourists returned to occupy first position of the visit to Bali, while Chinese tourist visit declined 37.51 percent, ranked second.

2

Bali News

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

International

Rural inflation in Bali the highest in Indonesia

DENPASAR —Based on observation against the rural peasant household consumption index in December 2018, inflation in Bali’s villages was the highest in the 33 provinces. However, all provinces indeed experienced inflation. Rural inflation in Bali province reached 1.25 percent.

Meanwhile, the lowest inflation was recorded in North Sumatra province with a magnitude of 0.06 percent.

This was conveyed by the Head of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Bali, Adi Nugroho, recently. In December 2018, Bali province recorded a rural inflation of 1.25 percent due to the increase in the average price of goods in all groups.

The highest inflation was recorded in the foodstuffs group reaching 2.82 percent followed by the health group (1.12 percent), transportation and communication group (0.22 percent), processed food, drinks, cigarettes and tobacco group (0.14 percent), clothing group (0.09 percent), housing group (0.08 percent), as well as education,

recreation and sports group (0.02 percent).

Consumption commodities contributing to rural inflation in December included onion, chicken meat, hospital room fees, green mustard, cayenne pepper, cob, red chili, and pork.

Although the price of rice is not included in the list contributing to inflation, the results of recording in the seven districts, namely Jembrana, Tabanan, Badung, Gianyar, Klungkung, Karangasem, and Buleleng during December 2018 showed the price of harvested unhulled rice (GKP) at

farmer level have increased.

The increase was 0.51 percent, from IDR 4,706 per kilogram in the previous month to IDR 4,730 per kilogram in December 2018. Similarly, the average price of GKP at the milling level rose by 0.56 percent from IDR 4,791 per kilogram to IDR 4,817 per kilogram. However, the price of rice in the market is quite stable. Inflation in Singaraja, for example, was contributed by rice from the foodstuffs group, but the contribution was very small at 0.0793 percent.

Inflation and the increase in grain prices caused the condition of Farmer’s

Waste processing innovation

It can be processed into pellets and gasoline SEMARAPURA - Garbage stacks are always a source of problems in each region. Klungkung district answers the problem with various innovations. After being successful with the Local Waste Processing Unit (TOSS) program that processes waste into pellets (substitute of coal raw materials) for PLN, another new idea emerged, namely processing waste into gasoline.

The pilot innovation in processing waste, especially plastic waste into gasoline, was pioneered by Paksebali

village, Dawan. Local village wants to integrate the management of the local tourism village with the Kali Unda icon, featuring this waste processing innovation. The waste management process is made into a tourist attraction because the waste problem has currently gone global and requires various innovative ideas to make waste return valuable and have benefits. This is the reason why outsiders come and want to learn further after seeing the positive impact on the lives of the surrounding community.

Paksebali village is prepared to do so. Headman of Paksebali, Putu Ariadi, stated on Sunday (Jan. 6) that currently Paksebali village has a 3R polling station and Local Waste Management Site being ready to be integrated with the tourist attraction.

Paksebali village will be used as a pilot project for processing plastic waste into gasoline by the PLN. He hoped the pilot process will run smoothly, just like TOSS being successful in processing waste into pellets like at Gunaksa village. If this goes

Business Exchange Value (NTUP) in December 2018 to also increase by 1.29 percent. The increase in the NTUP index was recorded in four sub-sectors.

The highest increase was recorded in the horticulture sub-sector by 2.24 percent, followed by livestock (1.92 percent), food crops (1.29 percent) and fisheries (0.06 percent).

Conversely, the NTUP of the smallholder plantation sub-sector recorded a decrease of 0.91 percent.

“If looking at the NTUP in the fisheries sub-sector in more detail, it can be seen that the NTUP of capture fisheries recorded a decline of 0.07 percent, whereas the NTUP of aquaculture increased by 0.30 percent,” he said.

Deputy Director of Bank Indonesia for Bali Representative Office, Azka A. Subhan, stated that in fact the rural inflation in Bali last December was

quite even in various sectors. On that account, production and distribution of goods and commodities in rural areas need to be improved.

One of the anticipatory efforts that can be carried out is by the rural inflation care program. The concern for inflation can be started from the rural areas. “It is the flagship program of Bangli district when it won the best predicate in the district level of regional inflation monitoring team (TPID) for Java and Bali in 2017 received in 2018,” said Azka.

He added that rural inflation, especially for agricultural commodities, can benefit farmers if farmers really receive good prices. However, if the price advantage is received by middlemen or intermediary traders, the price increases are not beneficial to farmers as only enjoyed by traders. (kmb42)

according to plan, he is confident the process of integration with tourism villages will further add to the tourist attraction that make tourists more interested in looking more closely at Paksebali village.

For information, there are thousands of tourists visiting Paksebali village every month. Unda River is one of the tourist attractions drawing many tourists. Aside from enjoying the place that began to be arranged, the object is also equipped with culinary outlet and wedding photo spots getting quite famous in Bali with the objects under the waterfall. In developing tourism at Paksebali village, disadvantaged communities are also involved. Thus, this is also one of the ways to alleviate the poor at the village.

In 2016, the number of underprivileged families at Paksebali village was recorded to reach 212 families.

However, the latest data show there are only 41 families. “Tourism and innovation are effective collaborations in improving people’s life. We want to take this seriously,” said Ariadi.

Various preparations and collaborations began to be made by his authority to realize this plan by creating new innovations. Making new innovations is a must if wishing to win the competition. With various efforts having been made, he hoped that tourist visits to Paksebali village will continue to increase, so that it is in line with the increase in the community’s economy and overall village development. (kmb31)

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Bangli: Swasrina, Buleleng: Mudiarta, Gianyar: Manik Astajaya, Karangasem: Eka Parananda, Klungkung: Bagiarta. Jakarta: Nikson, Hardianto, Ade Irawan. NTB: Agus Talino, Izzul Khairi, Raka Akriyani. Surabaya: Bambang Wilianto.  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

Activities

International

Lada Resto Reopens at Sanur Prama Beach

Lada Resto has reopened its doors to avid diners at Prama Sanur Beach featuring major interior upgrades on the terrace area that overlooks a lush tropical garden. The restaurant also comes with an air-conditioned seating area and an open kitchen which is housed within a beautiful and classically designed individual building nestled un-

der swaying palm trees, and is located on the pathway leading towards the beach. Diners are promised breathtaking views of the sea and garden from almost every corner. The menu at Lada Resto focuses on Indonesia’s remarkable cuisine and flavours from across the archipelago with popular local selections from starters to main courses derived

from the land and sea. Using Indonesia’s renowned traditional cooking methods which incorporate charcoal grill and the wok, the team produces a wide variety of selections from the basic ingredients comprising rice, noodles, side dishes and sweets as well as an array of local drinks and blends. Jl. Cemara, Sanur Bali | Ph: +62 361 288 011 |

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

15

16 Pages Number 13 11th year

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

Price: Rp 3.000,-

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Britney Spears cancels shows indefinitely after father ‘almost died’

LAS VEGAS - Britney Spears has announced an “indefinite work hiatus” to spend time with her family, revealing that her father “almost died” in an emotional message to her fans.

Sir Billy was given the all-clear for prostate cancer

IBP/net

Sir Billy Connolly says sorry to fans and declares he’s ‘not dying’ LONDON - Sir Billy Connolly has assured fans he is “not dead” in a musical message after a programme documenting his battles with cancer and Parkinson’s.

The comments in a social media post follow a BBC programme called Billy Connolly: Made In Scotland which gave an update on his health problems and revealed his life was “slipping away”.

Reviewing his life in comedy for the show, Sir Billy said he felt “near the end”, but insisted he was unafraid of what awaited him.

But on Saturday, in an upbeat message released on social media, the comedy stalwart and talented folk musician told fans he was very much alive.

As he strummed his banjo in what appeared to be his new home state of Florida, the comedian, who was born in Glasgow, said: “Not

dying, not dead, not slipping away.

Sorry if I depressed you. Maybe I should have phrased it better.”

Sir Billy’s wife, Pamela Stephenson, posted the update on Twitter.

The comedian was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, a degenerative neurological condition, in 2013.

It impacts his movement and speech and he told the BBC programme the condition stopped him moving around the stage like he did at his peak.

Sir Billy added: “My life, it’s slipping away and I can feel it and I should.

“I’m 75, I’m near the end. I’m a damn sight nearer the end than I am the beginning.

“But it doesn’t frighten me, it’s an adventure and it is quite interesting to see myself slipping away.” (net)

The singer is putting her Britney: Domination shows in Las Vegas on hold so she can help with her father Jamie’s recovery from “life-threatening health issues”, a statement on her website said.

Mr Spears underwent emergency surgery two months ago after suffering a ruptured colon, the star’s publicist confirmed to Sky News.

In a post on social media, Spears said that “it breaks my heart” to postpone the shows, but that “it’s important to always put your family first”.

In her full message to fans, she said: “I don’t even know where to start with this, because this is so tough for me to say.

“I will not be performing my new show Domination. I’ve been looking forward to this show and seeing all of you this year, so doing this breaks my heart.

“However, it’s important to always put your family first… and that’s the decision I had to make.

“A couple of months ago, my father was hospitalized and almost died. We’re all so grateful that he came out of it alive, but he still has a long road ahead of him. I had to make the difficult decision to put my full focus and energy on my family at this time.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

“I hope you all can understand. More information on ticket refunds is available on britneyspears. com. I appreciate your prayers and support for my family during this time. Thank you, and love you all… always.”

Details of Mr Spears’ illness were given in a statement, which said: “Two months ago, Mr Jamie Spears became seriously ill and was rushed to Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas. (net)

Mark RALSTON / AFP

Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama for “Bohemian Rhapsody” winner Rami Malek poses with Graham King (2ndR), Brian May (3rdL) and Mike Myers (R) in the press room during the 76th annual Golden Globe Awards on January 6, 2019, at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California.

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ rocks Golden Globes with surprise coda

“Bohemian Rhapsody” pulled a major upset at the close of the Golden Globes on Sunday, taking home the final two top prizes to put itself into the Oscars conversation along with “Green Book” and “Roma.”

On a night of wins for movies representing minorities, two awards favorites about white people -- Dick Cheney biopic “Vice” and musical romance “A Star is Born” -- all but struck out, with each picking up just one trophy in the run-up to the all-important Oscars on February 24.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” -- which charts the rise of British rock group Queen -- picked up best actor for Rami Malek, who plays legendary frontman Freddie Mercury. It also bagged the biggest movie award of the night -- best drama.

“I am beyond moved. My heart is pounding out of my chest right now,” said Malek, whose list of people to thank included the Queen

singer, who died in 1991.

“Thank you to Freddie Mercury for giving me the joy of a lifetime. I love you, you beautiful man. This is for and because of you, gorgeous.”

The two trophies were the final prizes in a ceremony that had been expected to be a consecration for “A Star is Born” -- starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper in the age-old Hollywood fable of an ailing performer and his muse -- which went into the night with five nods.

“Star” had to content itself with a statuette for best song, which went to Gaga and writing partner Mark Ronson, while Christian Bale -- who plays Cheney -- picked up the solo gong for “Vice.”

Civil rights dramedy “Green

Book” was the numerical winner -if not the prestige player -- picking up awards for best comedy movie, best supporting actor Mahershala Ali and best screenplay.

The boozy gala at the Beverly Hilton also recognized Alfonso Cuaron’s “Roma,” a cinematic ode to his childhood in 1970s Mexico City, with best director and foreign film honors, while seven movies bagged one statuette each.

“Cinema at its best builds bridges to other cultures,” Cuaron told the audience. “We need to understand how much we have in common.”

- Less edgy Under an azure southern

California sky, Tinseltown’s A-listers worked the red carpet with last year’s gender politics still very much in mind.

Many wore “Time’s Up” bracelets in a nod to the movement for sexual equality in the workplace that grabbed the headlines 12 months ago as the industry faced a reckoning about rampant harassment and abuse.

Hosting the Globes were comedian Andy Samberg and actress Sandra Oh, who made history as the first Asian woman to have presented a major awards show while also taking home her second Globe for “Killing Eve.” As the only awards show where alcohol is served, the evening is usually more colorful than showbiz’s other big nights.

But the presenters set the tone for a less edgy affair than in previ-

ous years with a relatively tame opening that gave more time to complimenting the nominees than assailing them with “roast”-style jokes.

Samberg paid tribute to the diversity among the slate of films up for awards, singling out “If Beale Street Could Talk,” whose star Regina King took home best supporting actress honors, as well as “Black Panther” and “Crazy Rich Asians,” which went home empty-handed.

News can also be heard in “Bali Image” at Global Radio FM 96.5 from 9.30 until 10.00 am. Listen to Global Radio FM at http:// globalfmbali.listen2myradio.com or live video streaming at http://radioglobalfmbali.com and http:// ustream.tv/channel/global-fm-bali.