I N T E R N A T I O N A L
16 Pages Number 115 11th year
I N T E R N A T I O N A L
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Friday, June 14, 2019
World’s most costly painting on Saudi prince’s yacht: report WASHINGTON - Since its sale for a record $450 million, the whereabouts of the “Salvator Mundi,” said to be painted by Leonardo da Vinci, has become one of the art world’s greatest mysteries. On Monday, London-based art dealer Kenny Schachter, writing for the website Artnews, offered answers: the painting now resides on the gargantuan yacht owned by powerful Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Since its record-setting sale at Christie’s in 2017, the painting, in which Jesus Christ is depicted emerging from darkness blessing the world with one hand while holding a transparent globe in the other, has never been exhibited in public, triggering doubts about its ownership, whereabouts and authenticity. Many art experts are split over whether the painting is genuine, saying it was not painted by the Italian master personally but instead by his workshop. The Wall Street Journal first reported that the painting was bought
by Saudi prince Badr bin Abdullah, who acted in the name of the Saudi crown prince, known by his initials MBS. Riyadh never confirmed or denied that report. AFP could not corroborate Schachter’s column, and in a nod to the opaque nature of international art sales, he wrote, “In the murky Middle Eastern waters nothing is quite crystal clear.” But citing several sources including two involved in the sale, Schachter claims the painting “was whisked away in the middle of the night on MBS’s plane and relocated to his yacht, the Serene.” After saying the painting was originally found in shards and had to be reconstructed before its auction, he asks, “what harm could the occasional splash of seawater do?” Schachter later wrote that the painting will remain onboard the massive yacht until it is relocated to the Al-Ula governorate, which Saudi Arabia is aiming to transform into a culture and tourism destination. (afp)
Friday, June 14, 2019
In this April 14, 2012 file photo, Thom Yorke (left) and Guitarist Jonny Greenwood.
IBP/net
Radiohead defies hackers, releases trove of stolen music
LONDON - Alternative rock legends Radiohead on Tuesday released an 18-hour trove of private recordings from their 1997 album “OK Computer” after getting hacked by someone seeking a ransom of $150,000 for the music.
Tolga Akmen / AFP
In this file photo taken on October 22, 2017 Christie’s employees pose in front of a painting entitled “Salvator Mundi” by Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci at a photocall at Christie’s auction house in central London ahead of its sale at Christie’s New York on November 15, 2017.
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The genre-banding English musicians uploaded the 1.8-gigabyte collection of recording session outtakes and rare live performances on their radiohead.bandcamp.com website. The songs can be accessed online for free. The group is also selling downloads of an album of the 18 hacked MiniDiscs for £18 ($22.90, 20.20 euros) and donating the proceeds to the Extinction Rebellion environmental campaign group. “We’ve been hacked,” frontman Thom Yorke’s wrote on the
website. “It’s not v interesting,” he added. “As it’s out there it may as well be out there, until we all get bored and move on.” Guitarist Jonny Greenwood later tweeted a statement saying the hack occurred last week. “Someone stole Thom’s minidisk archive from around the time of OK Computer, and reportedly demanded $150,000 on threat of releasing it,” Greenwood wrote. “So instead of complaining -much -- or ignoring it, we’re releasing all 18 hours on Bandcamp in aid
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of Extinction Rebellion,” he wrote. News of the hack first emerged on a Radiohead discussion page of the Reddit website last week. “This is a bit of a doozy,” a user identified only as u/santicol wrote. The user described how someone claiming to have the archive came in contact with a “well known leaker” and offered them previews of the tracks. “They were asking upwards of $150,000 for the entire set, at $800 per studio track and $50 per live track,” the Reddit user wrote. (afp)
IBP/afp
A picture obtained by AFP from Iranian State TV IRIB on June 13, 2019 reportedly shows smoke billowing from a tanker said to have been attacked off the coast of Oman, at un undisclosed location. The crews of two oil tankers were evacuated off the coast of Iran today after they were reportedly attacked and caught fire in the Gulf of Oman, sending world oil prices soaring.
Two tankers catch fire after suspected Gulf of Oman attacks
Suspected attacks left two tankers in flames in the waters of the Gulf of Oman Thursday, sending world oil prices soaring as Iran helped rescue stricken crew members. The mystery incident, the second involving shipping in the strategic sea lane in only a few weeks, came amid spiralling tensions between Tehran and Washington, which has pointed the finger at Iran over earlier tanker attacks in May. The Norwegian Maritime Authority said three explosions were Thursday reported on board the Norwegian-owned tanker Front Altair after it was “attacked” along with the Singapore-owned ship Kokuka Courageous. Iran said its navy had rescued 44
crew members after the two vessels, which were carrying highly inflammable material, caught fire. TV images showed huge, thick plumes of smoke and fire billowing from one of the tankers as it lay out to sea. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif spoke of “reported attacks” as Japan’s prime minister held talks in Tehran. “Suspicious doesn’t begin to describe what likely transpired this morning,” Zarif tweeted. The US Fifth Fleet said its warships had received distress calls from both
vessels in a “reported attack”. Iranian state media said the first incident occurred on board the Front Altair at 8:50 am (0420 GMT) 25 nautical miles off Bandar-e-Jask in southern Iran. The Marshall Islandsflagged tanker, a 111,000-tonne vessel, was carrying a cargo of ethanol from Qatar to Taiwan, official news agency IRNA reported. “As the ship caught fire, 23 of the crew jumped into the water and were saved by a passing ship and handed over to the Iranian rescue unit,” it said. “An hour after the first accident the second ship caught fire at 9:50 am 28 nautical miles off the port.” “I can confirm that the vessel
has NOT sunk,” Robert Hvide Macleo, chief executive for the ship’s owner Frontline, wrote in a text message to AFP. No injuries were reported. The Panama-flagged Kokuka Courageous was headed to Singapore from Saudi Arabia with a cargo of methanol, and 21 of its crew jumped and were rescued, IRNA said.
“The 21 crew of the vessel abandoned ship after the incident on board which resulted in damage to the ship’s hull starboard side,” it said. “One crew man from the Kokuka Courageous was slightly injured in the incident and is receiving first aid.”
- ‘Security incident’ Singapore-based BSM Ship Management said it had “launched a full-scale emergency response following a security incident” involving the Kokuka Courageous which is owned by Japanese company Kokuka Sangyo Ltd.
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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Friday, June 14, 2019
Bali News
International
IB Wiryawan stated the number of room occupancy in this week’s holiday is not too high. Moreover, the occupancy until the middle of this June remains normal, but not too high, “The average occupancy reaches 60-70 percent, not up to 80 percent,” he explained.
He admitted the density of tourist visit to Ubud during the Eid holidays turned out to be just enlivening. “Ubud indeed experienced traffic jam at that time, but most guests just made a visit,” he explained. Tourists come just for passing or making a visit for a while, and then return to their accommodation around Kuta. Besides, there are few domestic tourists staying in Ubud. “Domestic is more inclined to stay in the Kuta area (Badung district—Ed),” he explained. According to IB Wiryawan, it is required a breakthrough regarding this condition. Unfortunately, the measures to that purpose have not yet reached a meeting point. “There is no further discussion,” he explained. Of course, the stagnant homestay occupancy, he said, definitely becomes the tasks of various elements, not only tour operators. “This becomes homework for all stakeholders,” he said. (kmb35)
IBP/Manik Astajaya
Friday, June 14, 2019
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Sushil Kumar Solanki, Indian Freestyle Wrestler visited the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, Bali
Domestic tourists throng Ubud, but homestay occupancy still stagnant
GIANYAR - Crowded domestic tourist visits to Ubud area do not have an impact on the management of homestay services in the tourism village. Moreover, the room occupancy of homestay can be said to be fairly stagnant during this week’s holiday. This was revealed by the Chairperson of the Ubud Home Stay Association (UHSA), Ida Bagus Wiryawan, when contacted by telephone on Wednesday (Jun. 12).
Activities
International
IBP/eka Adhyasa
Environment Agency designs underground disposal sites for all
DENPASAR - One of the urban problems is the less optimal waste handling. Responding to this, the Denpasar Environment and Sanitation Agency (DLHK) continues to make innovation in realizing the look of clean and beautiful city. One of the strategic programs in 2019 is designing all temporary waste disposal sites (TPS) spreading across several points, so that everything is built underground as carried out on disposal site on Jalan Pulau Kawe. This was revealed by the Head of DLHK Denpasar, I Ketut Wisada, in front of members of the Commission I and III of Denpasar House of Representatives on Wednesday (Jun. 12). In a working meeting led by Chairperson of Commission III Eko Supriadi accompanied by Chairperson of Commission I Ketut Suteja Kumara, other than DLHK it was also attended by several agencies within the Denpasar city government. According to Wisada, during 2019 his agency has 10 programs with 23 activities. Until May 2019, the realized program reaches 42 percent of the target of 52 percent. It means there is 10 percent deviation due to several obstacles, namely some programs remain in tender process while others are in the process such as the procurement of several cleaning tools that are now in the process of being delivered from Jakarta, so that they
cannot be realized. One of the strategic programs designed by DLHK at the end of 2019 is arranging all the disposal sites in Denpasar. At least, it has 17 disposal sites scattered in several locations. In the future, all the disposal sites will be arranged so that the garbage usually piling up on the surface of land will be no longer visible like that. “Hopefully, all legislators in the House can guard and provide funds to carry out the disposal site arrangement,” said Wisada last Wednesday. According to Wisada, every disposal site requires at least IDR 3.5 billion to IDR 4 billion. On that account, it needs support from the legislators so that the programs can make the environment cleaner and more beautiful. Meanwhile, in 2018, the DLHK also had 10 programs with 23 activities. Of the 10 programs, the budget managed by DLHK reached IDR 79 billion. The amount of such funds could be realized 84.47 percent. The drawback of around 15 percent happened due to several programs that failed to tender. The failed program is the arrangement of the Karang depot. As scheduled, the disposal site was going to be revitalized into underground one. Unfortunately, the businessman broke down, so the program with a budget of IDR 2.5 billion failed to tender. (kmb12)
Founder : K.Nadha, General Manager :Palgunadi Chief Editor: Gugiek Savindra Editors:Agus Toni, Daniel Fajry, Mawa, Sueca, Denpasar: Dira Arsana, Giriana Saputra, Subrata, Sumatika, Asmara Putra. 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
Sushil Kumar SolankivisitedBali, Indonesia and stayed at the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, with his family as part of their vacation. Sushil Kumar Solankiis an Indian freestyle wrestler. Competing in the 66 kg weight division, he won the 2010 world title, a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics and a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, making him the only Indian national to win two individual Olympic medals. His 2008 Olympic medal was second for India in wrestling, and the first since KhashabaDadasahebJadhav’s bronze medal at the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics. In July 2009, he received the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award – India’s highest honour for sportspersons.On
3 October 2010, Kumar handed the Queen’s Baton to Prince Charles in the Queen’s Baton Relay for the 2010 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony. Sushil also won the gold medal in the 74 kg division at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. During his holiday, Mr. Sushil and his family stayed in a Palace Club room. His room offered spectacular garden views and luxurious accommodation in a spacious guest room with marble en-suite bathrooms. Mr. Sushil enjoyed some of the exclusive Palace Club Lounge privileges that included Daily Breakfast, Daily Afternoon Tea and Daily Evening Cocktails with assorted snacks and canapésattended by personal butlers. The Nusa Dua Beach Hotel &
Spa is the pioneer of luxury accommodation within the Nusa Dua area. This 5-star diamond resort, has been welcoming kings, queens, presidents and other dignitaries since its grand opening. Nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, the resort, with its 382 guestrooms and suites, features all the elegance of a Balinese palace, while offering modern amenities. The Nusa Dua Spa is designed to highlight its rich Balinese tradition with a variety of indigenous treatments. Dining at Nusa Dua Hotel & Spa is an epicurean journey with a choice of five restaurants and four bars under the close watch of an award-winning culinary team. For more information, please visit www.nusaduahotel. com.
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Friday, June 14, 2019
Fashion
International
Rihanna breaks from Fenty Fashion to introduce Chinese brand Quetsche
Bali News
International
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Tourism development of Nusa Penida goes uncontrollable SEMARAPURA — Nusa Penida Island has become a favorite tourist destination in Bali. Its natural and cultural potential is very diverse making tourists name it an attractive iconic object. However, the explosion of tourism in Nusa Penida is considered not yet accompanied with a mature development concept. This makes Nusa Penida look to be developing uncontrollably because it does not focus on its identity.
NEW YORK - Rihanna has been hard at work, work, work promoting her new Fenty fashion brand, but this weekend she proved she’s still got her finger on the pulse regarding under-the-radar designers. For her goddaughter Majesty’s fifth birthday party, the musician-turned-mogul wore Quetsche’s £255 “Hidden Dress” – a white T-shirt with black and lilac deconstructed tulle slip stitched onto it – over jeans. Embellished Amina Muaddi heels and stacked jewellery complementing her lavender jade nails by Jenny Longworth – the beautician behind Harry Styles’s pastel Met Gala nails – finished the playful look befitting the children’s gathering. “Happy 5th birthday to my real-life princess, Her #Majesty,” Rihanna captioned an Instagram post of her holding Majesty some years ago wearing a Gucci cap. “Aunty loves everything about you. My lil oxtail!” The singer journeyed to New York to celebrate with her extended family after holidaying with Hassan Jameel on the Amalfi Coast, where paparazzi photographed her boarding a boat in Nerano wearing Zimmermann. RiRi’s penchant for emerging labels has been bolstered by her stylist and collaborator Jahleel Weaver, who took over the role from Mel Ottenberg when her Fenty empire began expanding. Now a bona fide member of Rihanna’s inner circle dubbed #TheCorp, Weaver is also junior creative director across all Fenty brands. Back to Quetsche, the brainchild of Chinese designer Li Yang, who cut his teeth at Dior, Maison Margiela and Lanvin. He founded his label in September 2014 with a mission to manipulate materials in a way fashion hadn’t seen before. All his layered, distorted pieces are created in his family’s atelier in China, and are currently stocked on Selfridges and Farfetch. Upon seeing the popstar wearing his wares, Yang reposted @badgalriri’s Instagram post with the message “queen knows best” across it. Expect his near 2,000 follower count to start growing as the latest buzzy addition to Rihanna’s wardrobe blows up. After a single outing, Quetsche has become a name to watch. (net)
Friday, June 14, 2019
IBP/kmb31
Nusa Penida Island has become a favorite tourist destination in Bali. Its natural and cultural potential is very diverse making tourists name it an attractive iconic object.
According to a legislator of the Klungkung House of Representatives, AA Gde Sayang Suparta, the reality currently occurred has shown the fact of the assumption such as congestion, the absence of impact of income to the region and local residents as well as the focus on developing the object because everything moves sporadically. “Come on, now we focus on what makes tourists come to Nusa Penida. If the concept is natural and cultural attraction, can tourists come to see Baris Jangkang Dance at any time?” asked this Gerindra politician on Wednesday (Jun. 12). If the nature becomes an attraction, then the development concept according to him must be clear. So far this former tourism player sees strong potential on the cliffs and underwater nature. According to him, it is time for the executive and legislative to jointly encourage the realization of a clear development concept, so the purpose of tourism is also clear and the government also focuses on the direction of developing its tourism identity. Besides, the focus of this development will also have an impact on the next policy measure on many aspects affected by the rapid tourism development like the impact on agriculture as a supporting element. The real example occurred is the fate of seaweed farmers that were slowly running out. How about preparing the cultures of Nusa Penida so that there are always available when tourists come to Nusa Penida to see the culture they want? “All of us want to get the benefits. Visiting tourists feel satisfied, while local residents are affected when tourists stay for a few days. At the same time, the local government also gets income,” he affirmed. Head of the Klungkung Tourism Office, Nengah Sukasta, said that regarding the concept, since the beginning the Klungkung district government had brought cultural tourism supported by its natural potential. He realized what happens today is a truly positive development process for Nusa Penida. Sukasta reiterated that Tourism Office is finalizing plans to implement levies that will take effect on July 1. Regarding this collection plan, the Klungkung district government has also gathered tourism entrepreneurs in Nusa Penida, especially travel guides and entrepreneurs as well as fast boat entrepreneurs. To them, he emphasized that tourists will be charged a levy of IDR 25,000 per person (adult) and IDR 15,000 per person (child) in accordance with the provisions of the stipulated law. This refers to Regional Regulation No. 5/2018 concerning Amendment to Regional Regulation No. 3/2013 concerning Levies on Recreation and Sports Destination. “We are preparing the human resources and facilities like the officer, location of the collection post and complete regulations. We have to be careful. Regarding the levy collection plan, we hope travel agencies and tourist guide inform their guests to bring along rupiah in cash so that the process will accelerate,” he said. (kmb31)
Admission ticket price to Uluwatu Temple outdoors increases next July MANGUPURA — Starting on July 1, the operator of Uluwatu Temple Outdoors will impose a new admission ticket price to the region. The increase in tariffs will be applied, namely, for foreign visitors that used to be IDR 30,000 then increases to IDR 50,000 for adult, while for domestic visitors, increases from IDR 20,000 to IDR 30,000 for adult. Meanwhile, for domestic child is IDR 20,000 per person while foreign child at IDR 30,000 per person. According to Operations Manager of Uluwatu Temple Outdoors, Wayan Wijana, the tariff increase refers to the regulation of Badung
Regent Number 17/2019 concerning Review of Levy Rates for Recreation and Sport Attraction. He said it has been announced, informed and disseminated to travel agencies. “Even though there is an increase in ticket prices, we will continue to improve services for visitors. In addition, from the infrastructure side it will also continue to be developed,” he said on Wednesday (Jun. 12). In the future, aside from revamping infrastructure, it also rents a land owned by residents for the needs of parking space considering that the Uluwatu region always crowded with visitors is
constrained by parking problems. Besides, the toilets will also be added at a number of points. For health services, as operator of the tourist area it will alert ambulance to anticipate visitors’ health. Other than Uluwatu Temple Outdoors, the increase in admission ticket price will also apply to Labuan Sait Beach which remains under the same management. For Labuan Sait tourist objects, the admission ticket will cost IDR 10,000 per domestic adult; IDR 15,000 per person (foreign adult); IDR 5,000 per person (domestic child) and IDR 10,000 per person (foreign child). (kmb23)
IBP/kmb
Starting on July 1, the operator of Uluwatu Temple Outdoors will impose a new admission ticket price to the region.
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Bali News
Friday, June 14, 2019
International
Friday, June 14, 2019
International
Abandoned for long time
Back to the Hanfu-ture: Young Chinese revive ancient fashion
Pool area wants to be managed by village authority BANGLI - The existence of swimming pool in the Kubu education center, Bangli, posing an asset of the Bangli district, has been abandoned for years. Kubu village authority has the desire to manage the asset after it has changed the status into a village. Headman of Kubu, Arya Wibowo, when contacted on Wednesday (Jun. 12) revealed that the abandonment of the swimming pool had been going on for a long time. The swimming pool near the Gurukula School was last managed and taken advantage by residents eight years ago. After that, it was closed by the district government. He could not say for sure when the swimming pool was built by the government and why the pool was not used any longer and left abandoned until now. According to him, if only the swimming pool can be managed and opened to the public, many people will come and use it. Certainly it will bring in income. Arya admitted that he truly had the desire to manage the assets of the district government. However, there is limited authority because Kubu has the status as kelurahan (urban administrative village) where it cannot receive the grants in the form of asset from district government. “If later the Kubu has changed the status to a village, we can propose to get the grant, while urban administrative village cannot,” he said.
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Having been granted, he is going to utilize and arrange the swimming pool to become a water tourism spot. He is confident the swimming pool will be crowded. Moreover, the location is quite strategic. As is known, the existence of the swimming pool in the Kubu education center remains abandoned. Around 2015, the utilization plan was discussed at a working meeting between the Bangli Education Agency and the House of Representatives. But until now, there are no indications if the swimming pool will soon be utilized As the monitoring made some time ago in the area, there are two units of large size swimming pool. Other than the swimming pool, there are also two buildings as dressing rooms and toilets and two units of gazebo on the south and north sides of the pool. Unfortunately, even though the condition of swimming pool and gazebo is still quite sturdy and good, the pool area looks very dirty and neglected. Water of the swimming pool that should be clear now looks dirty brown. Wild grasses and shrubs are seen to be allowed to grow high around the pool even to get to the point where they creep into buildings in the southern part of the pool. Not only that, the gate having been locked with padlock has also begun to break down so that people can easily come in. By some residents, the pool is used as a fishing ground. (kmb40)
IBP/kmb
The appeal is also meant to secure fishing gear and keep the jukung or boat off the coast because ahead of full moon there will be tidal waves as usual.
Huge waves
Fishermen and people asked not to do beach activities
TABANAN - Actually huge waves have been predicted by a number of fishermen armed with weather satellite predictions because this phenomenon often occurs every year. However, the height of this year’s waves cannot be predicted.
IBP/kmb
The existence of swimming pool in the Kubu education center, Bangli, posing an asset of the Bangli district, has been abandoned for years.
Chairperson of the Indonesia Fishermen Association (HNSI) of Tabanan Chapter, Arsana Yasa or familiarly addressed Sadam, stated that his organization had given a good appeal through a short and verbal message so that until Friday (Jun. 14) all fishermen in the southern sea of Bali and Java not to go to sea. The appeal is also meant to secure fishing gear and keep the jukung or boat off the coast because ahead of full moon there will be tidal waves as usual. Likewise to the general public, Arsana Yasa advised not to play or bathe on the South Coast. “A danger of huge waves with strong currents will come at any time and yesterday was the peak reaching 4 to 5.5 meters. This Wednesday drops to 4 meters while on Friday drops again to 3 meters,” he explained on Wednesday (Jun. 12). Sadam also asked the public
to be more vigilant in reading natural conditions that are less friendly lately. “Considering the weather and climate on the coast of the South Bali return to go unfriendly, it is advisable for people not to visit places on the beach,” he hoped. Vigilance against huge waves is also a concern of security officers at Tanah Lot tourist attraction considering the wave height at Tanah Lot reaches 4 meters. Tourists are also limited to be on the beach. The management has posted signpost and red flags to forbid crossing. One of Tanah Lot’s lifeguards, I Wayan Buda Kertiasa, said the wave conditions at Tanah Lot are quite high, but now it has started to go down because before Tuesday (Jun. 11) the height reached 6 meters. “Nevertheless, we must be aware, too, because currently the waves are still relatively high,”
he said. For security of visitors, a number of warning signposts and red flags have been installed at some points so that tourists are not too close on the beach. Meanwhile, Operations Manager of Tanah Lot, Ketut Toya Adnyana, stated the high waves do not affect tourist visits. Nevertheless, his management together with police officers must remain alert. “It doesn’t affect because the waves aren’t very high,” he explained. According to Toya, his management is not only aware of the high waves by tightening security of visitors to the beach, but also the tidal waves that may happen. Management will close the road access to the shoreline. “We do this to prevent undesirable things from happening. In short, the access will be closed when high tides occur,” he affirmed. (kmb28)
PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA / AFP
Brides and grooms pose after celebrating multiple wedding ceremonies at the city hall and the cathedral during Saint Anthony’s day in Lisbon on June 12, 2019.
Lisbon fetes ‘saint of love’ with free deluxe weddings
LISBON - It is Lisbon’s wedding of the year. Crowds gather at the cathedral, hoping to catch a glimpse of the newlyweds as cameras lie in wait. Suddenly, the organ music grows louder and photographers get into position in front of the imposing entrance. Then not one, but 11 couples walk out, fresh from tying the knot Wednesday in an allexpenses-paid ceremony, the beneficiaries of a decades-long annual tradition that fetes the Portuguese capital’s beloved patron Saint Anthony, matchmaker extraordinaire. Financed by sponsors and TV rights, broadcast live on television, couples who would not otherwise have the means are gifted a deluxe wedding worth 400,000 euros ($450,000). Couples like fishmongers Tania Silva and Orlando Antunes, who are getting a one-off taste of mega fame on the eve of Saint Anthony day on June 13, the high point of days-long street-dancing, sardine-grilling festivities in Lisbon.
“We’ve been together for nearly 15 years,” said Tania, 30. “We always joked that we would one day get married for Saint Anthony. It’s a sumptuous ceremony which we could never afford.” - Interviews, selfies For Tania and her sister brides, the day begins early at city hall. For hours, they sit in front of identical mirrors in a room normally used for town hall meetings, Lisbon’s trademark trams passing in the street outside. Hairdressers and makeup artists who competed nationwide for the honour of styling them busy themselves around the brides, a television presenter diving in for the odd interview, an anxious parent taking a quick selfie. Tania’s slightly nervous. “I’m trying to keep calm but it’s difficult,” she says, laughing, as her hairdresser fixes her blond locks into an updo.
In the room next door hang the white wedding dresses, all donated by different designers. “Breathe,” jokes one bride as a helper tightens her lacy corset. All in all, 16 couples are getting married, five of them in a civil ceremony. They go first, appearing on the balcony of city hall after the event, waving down to a cheering crowd as a band from Lisbon University plays a serenade and a television drone films the moment. The 11 other couples are destined for the cathedral, some 650 metres (2,100 feet) away up a steep hill at the entrance of Lisbon’s famed Alfama old quarter. The brides are driven up the cobbled street in convertible vintage cars, getting out one by one and forming an orderly line as they wait to enter. Two hours later, the couples walk out, married, smiling. There is still more to come. Group photos, the first dance, interviews, and another public appearance in a giant parade in the evening. (afp)
BEIJING - Dressed in a flowing long robe adorned with beaded floral embroidery from a bygone era, stylist Xiao Hang looks like she surfaced from a time machine as she strides across the bustling Beijing metro, attracting curious glances and inquisitive questions. China has embraced Western fashion and futuristic technology as its economy boomed in recent decades, but a growing number of young people like Xiao are looking to the past for their sartorial choices and donning traditional “hanfu”, or “Han clothing”. These historic costumes of the Han ethnic majority are enjoying a renaissance in part because the government is promoting traditional culture in a bid to boost patriotism and national identity. Period dramas have also contributed to the surge in interest for traditional Chinese garb -- “The Story of Minglan”, a TV series set in the Song Dynasty, garnered more than 400 million viewers in three days when it debuted earlier this year. There is no uniform definition of what counts as hanfu since each Han-dominated dynasty had its own style, but the outfits are characterised by loose, flowing robes that drape around the body, with sleeves that hang down to the knees. “When we were little, we would also drape sheets and duvets around ourselves to pretend we were wearing beautiful clothes,” Xiao told AFP. Xiao, who used to work at a state-owned machine manufacturing company, now runs her own hanfu business, where she dresses customers for photo shoots and even plans hanfu-style weddings.
- Ancient style, new fashion In modern China, the hanfu community spans the gamut: from history enthusiasts to anime fans, to students and even young professionals. Yang Jiaming, a high school student in Beijing, wears his outfit under his school uniform. “Two-thirds of my wardrobe is hanfu,” he said, decked out in a Tang-style beige gown and black boots at a hanfu gathering, adding that his classmates and teachers have been supportive of his style. A government-supported revival in Chinese culture has given the hanfu community a boost: since he entered office in 2012, President Xi Jinping has supported the idea of promoting a Han-centric version of heritage. In April, the Communist Youth League of China launched a twoday conference for traditional Chinese garb, including hanfu. A live broadcast of the event drew some 20 million viewers, alongside a visceral outpouring of emotions. “Chinese people have abandoned their own culture and chosen Western culture. The red marriage gown has now become a wedding dress,” wrote on user on Bilibili, a video streaming platform popular among young anime, comic and gaming fans in China. Clothes are the “foundation of culture,” said Jiang Xue, who is part of Beijing-based hanfu club Mowutianxia, which has received funding from the Communist Youth League. “If we as a people and as a country do not even understand our traditional clothing or don’t wear them, how can we talk about other essential parts of our culture?” she said. (afp)
GREG BAKER / AFP
This photo taken on April 5, 2019 shows women wearing “hanfu” - traditional Chinese clothing - rehearsing for a performance at a gathering of hanfu devotees at a park in Beijing.
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International
Friday, June 14, 2019
BUSINESS Trade tensions boosted euro’s global role in 2018: ECB
Fear of trade conflicts, sanctions and challenges to the multilateral order contributed to a rebound in worldwide use of the euro in 2018 from historic lows, the European Central Bank said Thursday. “It’s primarily the diversification out of the dollar which benefits the euro, because it is the second-most used currency and second-most liquid for investors,” ECB board member Benoit Coeure told reporters in Frankfurt. Aside from commercial tensions, internal reforms within the eurozone to deepen the economic and monetary union between the members also helped, the ECB found in its annual report on the euro’s global role. Euros made up some 20.7 percent of global foreign currency reserves in 2018, measured at constant exchange rates -- up 1.2 percentage points year-on-year. Meanwhile, the dollar remained top dog, but fell to its lowest share since the euro’s launch 20 years ago, at 61.7 percent. “Some central banks might have started to consider reducing their positions in financial assets exposed to the risks of unilateral actions,” the ECB said. Russia -- one of the world’s biggest holders of reserves -- sold $100 billion in 2018 after a new round of American sanctions, instead buying up $90 billion worth of euros and Chinese yuan. The central bank also found that the proportion of new euro-denominated debt from non-eurozone issuers grew 2.5 percentage points last year, to 22.7 percent, while the dollar’s share shrank by eight points to below 61 percent. And the proportion of international payments for goods and services in euros held steady. Looking ahead, “the international role of the euro should be decided by market forces,” Coeure said, although the ECB is able to support it “in the technical field”. “For instance by supporting the integration of European payments, that can make it easier, faster and cheaper for international investors to use euro denominated assets.” Meanwhile, strengthening the economic and monetary union between euro member countries should also provide the foundation for use of the currency to grow internationally. The European Commission prodded member states Wednesday to complete reforms to the single currency bloc, including an embryonic joint budget for the 19 member states -- on the agenda at a “Eurogroup” finance ministers’ meeting Thursday. (afp)
International
Bali News
Friday, June 14, 2019
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Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA trajectories of Balinese Visual Arts Titillating title eclipses content
‘Masters of Bali’, the title of an exhibition which opened in Nusa Dua on May 25th, 2019, is indeed a bold and a clever way of attracting attention to the plethora of masterful Balinese artists -past and present. On the surface, the title appears to be presenting the greatest of Balinese artists and gives hope that some kind of timeline or framework for appreciating Bali’s greatest and most influential artists might be offered. While the relatively large exhibition does in many ways bear witness to the abundance, diversity and high quality of art being produced by Balinese artists, its promise of presenting the extent or means of understanding this diverse and high-quality lineage falls short of being fulfilled.
AP Photo/Thibault Camus
France’s Prime Minister Edouard Philippe delivers a speech at the National Assembly, in Paris, Wednesday, June 12, 2019. France’s prime minister vowed to keep reforming the country’s economy through changes to the unemployment benefits, the pension system and tax cuts for middle-class workers. Edouard Philippe laid down Wednesday the government’s upcoming priorities at the lower house of parliament, the National Assembly.
France pledges to reform economy, boost competitiveness PARIS - France’s prime minister said Wednesday that the government of President Emmanuel Macron plans to keep reforming the economy to boost its competitiveness, with changes to unemployment benefits and the pension system and plans to help out middle-class workers with tax cuts.
Addressing the lower house of parliament, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe laid out the government’s upcoming priorities after two years in office. Responding to often violent yellow vest protests against Macron’s policies that started in November, Philippe acknowledged it was “a mistake” that the government sometimes took decisions too quickly and without enough public consultation. “We want to change our manner of governing. We are and will remain reformers. But we must further involve the French in the decision-making,” he said. Critics say Macron’s economic policies tend to favor the wealthy and big businesses and are out of touch with everyday life. In what he called the “Act II” of Macron’s
term —which runs until 2022— Philippe listed a series of economic reforms which he said aimed to make France’s economy more competitive. Philippe said tax cuts will focus on middle-class workers, including 18 million French households who will see their annual incomes increase by about 180 to 350 euros ($204 to $396) next year on average. “With the President of the Republic, we received loud and clear the message of exasperation against taxes that the French people sent us. They no longer want words but acts,” he said. A reform of France’s generous unemployment benefits system will be presented next week — notably reducing benefits that
wealthier workers are entitled to. France’s unemployment rate has decreased, falling to 8.4 percent at the beginning of the year, its lowest in 10 years, Philippe said. Moves to reform the pension system will keep the legal retirement age at 62 — but benefits for those who do so will decrease, to encourage people to work longer. Details are expected to be unveiled in July. Another bill later this year will grant single women and lesbian couples access to medically assisted reproduction, a campaign promise from Macron. The procedures are currently restricted to heterosexual couples. Philippe confirmed France will remain militarily involved in the fight against the Islamic State group and in Africa’s Sahel region. At home “we will maintain constant vigilance against the terrorist threat”, he said. A debate followed the prime minister’s speech at the National Assembly, where Macron’s party has a strong majority. (ap)
While the title appears to pay homage to the tremendous creativity of Balinese artists and the ancestral lineage of art production on the island, it also runs the risk of eclipsing the truly astounding amount and quality of art created by Balinese artists, the roots of their inspiration and the directions or trajectories taken by them, by implying that the exhibition represents some kind of distinct albeit widely encompassing narrative of Balinese art. The word ‘master’ is indeed an ambiguous term, however, it generally implies talent and influence and often some kind of important innovation or contributions to a particular aesthetic or conceptual narrative. Although most of the artists presented in the show certainly qualify as masters of one kind or another, wherein their mastery lies is certainly not clear given that the aesthetic narrative of which they might represent a kind of peek was absent from the exhibition as a whole. Without such a framing it is hard to ascribe mastery to the works presented and many distinctly masterful artists were conspicuously missing too. Of course, it is impossible to trace all the lines of the diverse lineages that inform art on the island, and perhaps this fact was part of the perhaps intended ambiguity of the exhibition. However, it is hard to deny that certain clear lines are easily demonstrable and those who show mastery precisely for their creative divergence or commentary on these lines are also clear. So, an exhibition which pretends to present the masters of Bali, but which does not present the context or lineage of the particular divergence from, expansion of, or creative innovation of the artistic being presented, is poised for criticism and perhaps intentionally so. What constitutes a masterful artist, to what extent the mastery of Balinese artists can be represented in a single show and who determines such criteria and for what purpose may be questions of little importance to the ultimate purpose of showcasing Balinese talent in general – especially in this particular context. Perhaps the title was deliberately chosen to trigger dialogue or what might more aptly be called free advertising, as most of the major influences, roots, and departures from established artistic norms are well documented and could have been brought to light in a relatively clear or even controversial manner. Instead of presenting either an established narrative or a distinctly alternative one, Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA Trajectories of Balinese Visual Art presents a more fluid or one might say ambiguous framing of the show. This is not to say that the works presented in the exhibition or even that the loose narrative is without value. Many of the artworks in the
exhibition are indeed worthy of note for a variety of reason, including for their diverse examples of technical mastery, creativity, unique beauty, influence as well as for clearly referencing cultural, social and economic contexts. Also –despite the rather unclear manner in which the narrative of the show as a whole is presented, this ambiguity -it could be argued, in fact speaks to the difficulty of placing a square peg in a round hole, a way of showing that the DNA of Balinese aesthetics yields creativity in a general way that is beyond strict categorization. Given the fact that Bali’s socio-religious context plays such a massive role in the lived aesthetic experience of Balinese people, that unlike most of the world, here art plays a very strong non-economically driven yet nonetheless utilitarian role and that the depth of the associated aesthetic lexicon is widely understood by the general public, art in Bali can clearly not be evaluated in the same way as art from elsewhere can be. Despite the introductory description of the exhibition stating that the purpose of the show was indeed to present works within the particular context of Bali described as “art is…. integral part of society for rituals or customs”, as opposed to how Balinese art fits into narratives from abroad, and more particularly to show works that draw on the lexicon of traditional Balinese aesthetics in innovative ways, described as: ”attempts to examine the aesthetic achievements of art in Bali and reconsider artistic practice as a search of form or visual within the context of: religious, ritual, culture or social and economic activity in Bali by escaping from the canonical point of view which dichotomizes, breaching other paradigm boundaries”. Not all of the works on display, however, were speaking of or to Balinese canonical points of view and if it is other paradigm boundaries that are being breached then what is it that holds the show together? Is not all art either speaking to, from or about one paradigm or another? Is the implication that this exhibition is paying homage to masters who breach different paradigms that are related to Balinese aesthetics in one way or another? The description seems strange at best and at worst suspicious. Most people would agree that it is highly unlikely that any Balinese artist could be entirely free of the cultural or aesthetic influences of traditional Balinese religio-cultural practices. This is not to say that all Balinese artists are directly responding to or speaking about it, only that the lineage of art practices on the island is rooted in these traditions and when speaking of masters, there is an implied reference to lineage, a kind of peek in a given narrative, so that even artists who are not speaking to or about tradition, are
also part of a lineage with peeks in achievements by distinct masters. So, the question that the title Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA trajectories of Balinese visual Arts poses is: what narrative is guiding the selection process and presentation? While the verbal description says it is the development of visual arts rooted in the aesthetic traditions of Bali but which seek to question the ideas behind it, the works do not bear this out. Showing that Balinese artists have a particularly rich set of visual aesthetic references to draw on and that their manipulation of them can be used either to support their underlying meanings, question or even to subvert would perhaps have been more accurate in describing the exhibition as a whole, as the works on display indeed fall into all three categories and then some. Instead, the exhibition allowed itself carte blanche to show what appears to be a kind of random bunch of artworks by Balinese artists of note with a few references to established branches of “classic Balinese art” and an oddly out of place reference to a student art movement revolting against the art market establishment of the turn of this millennia with no indication of how this movement referenced Balinese aesthetics at all. In terms of a general display of Balinese artistic talent, this question may not be important, particularly given that art is after all meant to be appreciated as a non-verbal means of communication and always open to personal interpretation of color, line, and composition and to a certain extent context (though again here some framing of context would have been appreciated for this show). Regardless there is clearly a long history of remarkable art production in Bali, which has clearly been passed down through the generations in one form or another and maybe that is all we need to know. In this respect, ‘Master of Bali’ does indeed offer the viewer many interesting, beautiful and noteworthy works of interest including: the detailed, humorous and beautiful 6-meter long
work based on the traditional Batuan style of painting, the impressive power of pure line and color demonstrated with great expression in exaggerated abstract style, fragments of Balinese decorative elements reconstructed into stark new visually disruptive yet somehow harmonious compositions, spontaneous pointillism rendered in color-rich swatches of cosmic proportions, deep psychological quandaries presented with deceptively refined characters, the unending unfolding of creation presented through the honest placement of line and color unhindered by personal calculations, the intricate and subtle construction of spatial dimensions that seem impossibly complex yet distinctly simple, and other works that have indeed influenced many artists, that have merit by any standards and others that have questionable aesthetic merit though perhaps have hidden value elsewhere. The clever title of the exhibition leaves a fair amount of leeway for both its presentation and interpretations of the works and, whether this ambiguity was intended or not, it does carve out a space for the audience to consider that the wealth of art that has been and continues to be produced in Bali is so wide in breadth, deep in meanings, expansive in all directions, incredibly focused in particular minutia, distinctly rooted in tradition and entirely beyond such notions, that attempting to measure its value by any previously established norms for evaluating art are simply ill-suited. A kind of invitation to put aside all such measures for evaluation and to simply enjoy the power and beauty of art -as all art is essentially intended to be, felt and appreciated as an example of the endless expressions of the human soul. For this, Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA trajectories of Balinese Visual Aesthetics is certainly worth viewing, though a few days spent visiting the many art galleries, artists studios, and museums of Ubud, Denpasar, Sanur and a trip to Kamasan and Batuan would perhaps yield a greater appreciation for the general context out of which such artworks emerge and to which they speak. (kmb)
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War, depression, suicide: American veterans are finding help CENTER MORICHES - Roger King was 19 when he enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 2005. He left four years later after two deployments in Iraq, where a sniper’s bullet nearly cost him his life. Once home, he faced a new set of problems in his return to civilian life on New York’s Long Island, including a suffocating sense of anxiety and difficulty being in group situations. King was suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a traumatic brain injury (TBI) -- two afflictions sadly common among veterans of the largest army in the world, bogged down in seemingly endless conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Increasingly depressed by the challenges of his new life, King began drinking. This solidly built 33-year-old man quietly confides that he attempted suicide -- twice. Russell Keyzer -- another New Yorker -- joined the National Guard shortly after the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. Now 42, he suffers from flashbacks, insomnia, panic attacks and other PTSD symptoms following two years with NATO’s
multinational force in Kosovo, where periods of relative stability alternated with violent outbursts. After returning home in 2008, Keyzer sank into a life of drinking and depression. His marriage came crashing down and he found himself homeless. On no fewer than seven occasions, he says, he attempted to kill himself. Today, King and Keyzer say they are doing much better, thanks in large part to an aid group for veterans, the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project, a non-profit organization created in 2012 in tribute to an army medic who killed himself in 2008 after returning home from Iraq.
- ‘More needs to be done’ -
King and Keyzer spoke about their darker times at a recent “Wellness Day” organized by the association at a park in the coastal village of Center Moriches. Veterans enjoyed a picnic, a salute to the US flag, yoga, meditation and kayaking -- all activities intended to foster a sense of security and camaraderie. Some 20 organizations also set up stands to offer assistance. “More needs to be done,” King said. Groups like the Dwyer Project “should have been done in World War I, World War II, Vietnam.”
He now leads a group of a dozen veterans for the project. They meet weekly. “We thought of AA, NA,” he said, referring to Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, but “it’s like you never really thought maybe this might help for veterans.” Now, King added, “the compassion and the caring is getting there.” Keyzer agreed. “If the proper resources were there when we came home, we would not be in this position ... We would not have turned to drugs, we would not have turned to alcoholism,” he said. But he added: “Things are slowly changing for the better every day. There are more and more veterans’ programs out there.” - Peer support -
Don Emmert / AFP
Roger King answers questions while attending the Joseph Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project June 1, 2019 in Center Moriches, New York.
Two tankers... From page 1
It said the vessel was about 70 nautical miles from the United Arab Emirates and just 14 from the coast of Iran. Japan’s
Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Hiroshige Seko told reporters in Tokyo: “A tanker carrying Japan-related goods was attacked. “There were no injuries among the crew members. They
got off the tanker. There were no Japanese members.” The incident came as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was on an unprecedented visit to Iran, seeking to defuse tensions between Toyko’s ally Washing-
ton and the Islamic Republic. Tehran said it has dispatched a helicopter from the port of Bandar-e-Jask to the ships’ location for “further investigation”. The US Fifth Fleet said: “We are aware of the reported
Psychological support groups like the Dwyer Project have indeed been multiplying across the United States, as the world’s leading superpower struggles to help its 20 million veterans -- nearly 10 percent of the adult population -- overcome their challenges and thoughts of suicide. Many recent veterans are at the opposite end of the spectrum from the proud and smiling men and women who assembled in Normandy last week to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion during World War II. More than 6,000 veterans -many of them gun owners -- killed themselves each year from 2008 to 2016, according to a report published late last year by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). By comparison, a total of 6,951 American troops died in major war zones between 2001 and 2018, according to an analysis from Brown University. Faced with those sobering statistics, the VA -- which administers some 1,200 hospitals and clinics -- has made suicide prevention a priority, establishing a hotline for troubled veterans that is among the most heavily used in the world. (afp)
attack on tankers in the Gulf of Oman. “US naval forces in the region received two separate distress calls at 6:12 am. local time and a second one at 7:00 am.” (afp)
International
Friday, June 14, 2019
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Police advise people against visiting Jakarta over election dispute
BANDUNG - West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudy Sufahriadi appealed to the province’s residents to not visit Jakarta over the presidential election dispute whose trial at the Constitutional Court (MK) will be held on June 14-28.
“We have urged them similar to what the governor had done. Hence, we will not conduct an operation to stop them. (We) are just urging,” he noted here on Thursday. Sufahriadi requested the people to stay put where they are and follow the legal process by the MK instead of visiting the MK building in Jakarta. He had given assurance that the MK would maintain a neutral stance and process the dispute in line with the existent laws. “Until today, we continue to make attempts (to urge them) to not go there. We are trying,” he stated. Earlier, West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil had called on the local residents to lay their trust on MK in processing the dispute. Ridwan Kamil urged them to stay at home while awaiting the MK’s verdict on the presidential election dispute filed by presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto, who alleged massive fraud in the election. “It would be better for us to wait at home. We will see the result. Everything is being handled by the MK since our country is a legal state. Hence, to maintain conducive situation, the people of West Java should not go too far. Leave it to the Constitutional Court,” the governor stated. Indonesia had held simultaneous legislative and presidential elections on April 17, 2019. The General Elections Commission (KPU), on May 22 at 1:28 a.m. local time, had declared the final results of the elections, detailing the victory of the Joko Widodo (Jokowi)-Ma’ruf Amin pair. The final tally indicated the Jokowi-Amin pair had won 85 million votes, or 55.5 percent of the national vote, as compared to contenders Prabowo SubiantoSandiaga Uno’s 68 million votes, or 44.5 percent. The Jokowi-Amin pair had declared victory, while the Subianto-Uno pair rejected the KPU’s official tabulation result and vowed to challenge it in the MK. On May 24, 2019, a lawyer team of the Subianto-Uno pair filed a lawsuit at the MK over the disputed election results. (ant)
AP Photo/Binsar Bakkara, File
In this Nov. 23, 2012, file photo, a Muslim protester of Islam Defenders Front (FPI) wears a mock-suicide bomb during a demonstration against Israel’s recent offensive against Palestinians in Gaza, outside the building that houses the U.S. consulate in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. The Islamic Defenders Front, better known for vigilante actions against gays, Christmas decorations and prostitution, has over the past decade and a half repurposed its militia into a force that’s as adept at searching for victims buried under earthquake rubble and distributing aid as it is at inspiring fear.
Police detain 34 terror suspects in Central Kalimantan PA L A N G K A R AYA Palangka Raya, C Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Police’s anti-terror squad (Densus 88) and the Central Kalimantan Police took into detention 34 suspected terrorists, including women and children, in Palangka Raya and Gunung Mas District. The police have named two of them, identified by their initials
as A and T, as suspects while the rest are yet under investigation, a spokesman of the Central Kalimantan Police Senior Commissioner Hendra Rochmawan stated here on Thursday. “The group’s existence in Central Kalimantan was facilitated by Ansyari, a resident of Palangka Raya, since early 2019,” he remarked.
The group, with alleged links to terrorist network Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), is viewed as a dangerous group, as all its members are trained in assembling high-explosive bombs. “They target the police in Jakarta, not in Central Kalimantan,” he noted. During the raid conducted at several locations in Palangka
Raya, the anti-terror squad had managed to confiscate materials for assembling bombs. “They have been in Central Kalimantan for six months to undergo training and start to move after receiving instruction to go to Jakarta,” Rochmawan explained. In 2018, the group, headquartered in Aceh, was dissolved af-
ter Densus 88 arrested its several members. One of them had fled to Central Kalimantan. “It is, in fact, a group of absconders. They are not in selfimposed exile while collecting fund and training,” he added. The group has planned to trigger unrest and terror in some regions in the country, Rochmawan stated. (ant)
Fishing boats ply in inundated Morowali to transport people, goods
MOROWALI - Several fishing boats have been deployed to facilitate the movement of people and goods in Morowali District, Central Sulawesi, reeling from the impact of flooding. “We have deployed two Inkamina boats and several other small speed boats owned by our members to facilitate the transportation of
goods and people in Bahodopi Subdistrict, Morowali District,” Syahrul, chairman of a local fishermen’s association, noted in Bungku, the capital of Morowali District, here on Thursday. Fishing boats are highly sought after for transporting goods and people since several bridges, including Dampala Bridge, located in Bahodopi, had
beeen destroyed by flooding. The 35 GT-Inkamina boats carried motorcycles, LPG tubes, sugar, rice, mineral water, eggs, vegetables, and other commodities. He revealed that the boat owners charged their clients lesser tariffs than regular days. The local authorities are currently building an iron bridge over
Dampala River in place of the old one that collapsed after being hit by flooding. The new bridge is expected to be ready in the next three days. Flooding has hit Morowali over the past six days, rendering two people missing and submerging hundreds of homes and public facilities, such as schools, markets,
and offices. At least four bridges, located along the Trans Central Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi highway, were destroyed by floods that also isolated several villages. The flooding was triggered by incessant heavy rains and environmental damages due to nickel mining activities. (ant)
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International
Friday, June 14, 2019
International
Froome has surgery, in intensive care after high-speed crash
Mohd RASFAN / AFP
Malaysia’s badminton player Lee Chong Wei (L) cries during a press conference to announce his retirement in Putrajaya on June 13, 2019.
Cucukan Beach GIANYAR - Cucukan Village is home to around 200 local Balinese who have lived for hundreds of years within the area, with not a great deal changing over the years. Its secluded proximity to the rest of the island has provided an opportunity for this tiny village to achieve its own special identity. These gentle Balinese farmers, who tend their rice paddies, geese, ducks and pigs, are also expert fishermen who launch in the early hours bringing back an array of fresh lobster and delectable seafood each day. The magical black sand beach serves as a dramatic backdrop to village life. Witness the most breathtaking sunrises as the day begins with rays illuminating the ocean horizon. A favourite with internationally titled surfers the beach is also frequented by locals col-
lecting the dazzling stones and shells that wash up on shore. Cucukan is located east side of Bali, north from Keramas. It is not crowded because it is far from Sanur, and it is good to go there when Keramas is crowded. Cucukan becomes popular as good wave recently. It takes about 40 min. from Kuta by bike, and it is not good road from By-pass to beach. The beach is in front of house of former president, Megawati. There are 3 peaks, right break in front of warung and left side of warung and right break in right side. Normally, long ride is possible in right break. There is left break but it is short riding. It tends to be good condition when it is going to high tide. The bottom is reef and shallow when its low tide. It is recommended to wear reef boots. (IBP/net)
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Tears as badminton star Lee quits after cancer battle
PUTRAJAYA - Cancer-hit badminton star Lee Chong Wei announced his retirement Thursday, ending a brilliant career in which he collected a swathe of honours but never won a world or Olympic title. Lee, who spent a total of 348 weeks as world number one but lost six world and Olympic finals, wept as he called it quits months after fighting off nose cancer. “My decision to retire is a heavy one. I really love this sport. But it is a demanding sport. I thank all Malaysians for the past 19 years,” Lee, 36, told a news conference. Lee, a father of two, was diagnosed with early-stage nose cancer last year and after intensive treatment in Taiwan he said he was keen to play again. But he hasn’t trained since April and after missing a series of selfimposed deadlines to return to competition, his hopes of being eligible for next year’s Tokyo Olympics were remote. The three-time Olympic silver medallist said he now wanted to rest and spend time with his family, and even take his wife on a “honeymoon”, a trip that has been delayed since their marriage in 2012. He finishes his career with 705 wins and 69 titles, including five Commonwealth Games gold medals, four All England victories and a record 47 Superseries triumphs. Lee’s unsuccessful attempts to capture Malaysia’s first ever Olympic
gold medal, reaching three consecutive finals, were followed avidly by his fans, as was his long-running rivalry with Chinese superstar Lin Dan. His last shot at the Olympic title at Rio 2016 ended in crushing disappointment when the Malaysian lost out to China’s Chen Long in a nail-biting final. Lin posted to his four million followers on China’s Twitter-like Weibo: “I will be alone on the (badminton) court and no one will accompany me.” He also posted a link to a Chinese ballad called “Friends Don’t Cry”. “Lin Dan and myself are rivals in the court but outside the court, we are close friends,” Lee said when asked about their rivalry. “I hope Lin Dan will play in the Tokyo Olympics. But he faces challenges from younger players.” - ‘Lee is a legend’ Cancer proved the career-ending blow but it wasn’t the only low for Lee, who was banned after testing positive for a banned antiinflammatory at the 2014 world championships. The long-time former world number one returned to the sport in 2015, after authorities accepted he took the
drug inadvertently. “I have no regrets. More important is my health, the decision to retire is very tough,” said Lee, adding that his cancer treatment was now over. “My plan to retire was originally after the Olympic Games. I made this decision due to my health. “You know I got married in 2012. But we (have) never gone for a honeymoon. I owe this promise (to my wife), now I have to please her.” Lee said that at his last check-up in Taiwan in April he was told by his doctor to rest as “badminton requires high-intensity training”. Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) president Norza Zakaria, who was at the news conference, described Lee as a “legend”. “It is a sad day. Lee is a legend and very dependable. We accept his decision,” Norza said. Malaysian sports minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman described Lee as “a hero to all Malaysians... someone like him comes once in a lifetime”. He said Lee will be the chief of mission for the Malaysian contingent to the Tokyo Games. As he began announcing his retirement, Lee paused for almost a minute as tears rolled down his cheeks. “I fought for my country all the way,” said Lee, now down at 191 in the rankings. “It’s my retirement day.” (afp)
SAINT-ETIENNE - Fourtime Tour de France winner Chris Froome has undergone surgery and was in intensive care Thursday a day after slamming into a wall at high speed and suffering multiple fractures. The force of the impact during practice ahead of the fourth stage of the Criterium du Dauphine race in central France fractured his pelvis, right femur, and left him with broken ribs and a broken right elbow. “He’s not in great shape. There are crashes and bad crashes and this was a bad crash,” said his Ineos team principal Dave Brailsford. He said the 34-year-old Briton had undergone initial surgery which had gone well and “will remain in hospital for at least two days in Saint-Etienne” before a decision on further treatment, possibly back home in Britain, is taken. Brailsford said Froome had no hope of competing in the Tour de France next month and his full focus was now on recovery after the horror crash which happened on a downhill stretch of road in the Loire region. Froome was riding with Dutch teammate Wout Poels when he lost control of his bike and slammed into the wall of a house at full speed. “We have had a look at his
data, he went from 54km/h to a dead stop,” Brailsford said. The accident happened in the village of Saint-Andre d’Apchon. Froome had taken his hands off the handlebars in order to blow his nose “and the wind’s taken his front wheel and he’s hit a wall,” Brailsford added. Following treatment on site Froome was airlifted to intensive care at Saint-Etienne hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. F r o o m e ’s w i f e M i c h e l l e Cound tweeted that she was on her way to join him there and asked fans to keep the rider “in your thoughts.” Brailsford said that Froome had worked “incredibly hard to get in fantastic shape and had been on track for the Tour” which starts on July 6 from Brussels. The Criterium du Dauphine represents a full dress rehearsal and Froome was doing well, in eighth spot before the crash. Late Wednesday, Brailsford said Froome had the mental force needed in the battle for recovery that lay ahead. “One of the things which sets Chris apart is his mental strength and resilience - and we will support him totally in his recovery, help him to recalibrate and assist him in pursuing his future goals and ambitions.” (afp)
Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP
Team Ineos rider Great Britain’s Christopher Froome rides during the third stage of the 71st edition of the Criterium du Dauphine cycling race, 177 km between Le Puy-en-Velay and Riom on June 11, 2019.
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic sets MLS salary record at $7.2 million
BETHESDA, Md. — LA Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic is earning a Major League Soccer-record $7.2 million salary this season. The 37-year-old Ibrahimovic, who earned a relatively modest $1.5 million last year, broke the previous mark of Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco, who had $7,115,556 in total compensation in both 2017 and 2018. The MLS Players Association said Wednesday the average base salary for all
players this year is $376,174 and the average guaranteed compensation is $417,643, including a prorated share of guaranteed money not attributable to a specific year. The average salary for senior roster nondesignated players increased 13.3% to $345,867 and is up from $138,140 in 2014. Striker Giovani dos Santos, released by the Galaxy in March, is second with a base salary of $4.75 million and total compensation of $6.5 million.
Toronto midfielder Michael Bradley ($6 million base, $6,428,571 total) is third, followed by Toronto striker Jozy Altidore ($4,891,250, $6,332,250), LAFC forward Carlos Vela ($4.5 million base, $6.3 million total), Chicago midfield Bastian Schweinsteiger ($5.6 million base and total), Montreal winger Ignacio Piatti ($530,000, $4,443,333), Toronto midfielder Alejandro Pozuelo ($3.8 million), DC United forward Wayne Rooney ($3.5 million, $3,507,500), Atlanta forward
Josef Martínez ($3 million, $3,058,333), Seattle forward Nicolás Lodeiro ($2 million, $2,502,500), Orlando midfielder Nani ($2,333333, $2,486,250) and Colorado goalkeeper Tim Howard ($2 million, $2,475,000). The minimum salary for each team’s 18-20 senior players rose to $70,250 this season and the minimum for its maximum eight reserve players increased to $56,250. This is the final season of a five-year labor contract.(ap)
FIFA withdraws claim of 1 million tickets sold at World Cup
AP Photo/Michel Spingler
Germany head coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, right, celebrates with her players at the end of the Women’s World Cup Group B soccer match between Spain and Germany at Stade du Hainau in Valenciennes, France, Wednesday, June 12, 2019. Germany won 1-0.
PARIS — FIFA has withdrawn a claim that 1 million tickets have been sold for the Women’s World Cup and now says the total includes people paying nothing to attend games, including VIPs and even medical staff. FIFA deleted a tweet posted on Tuesday that said: “One million tickets for the @FIFAWWC 2019 have now been sold!” The sport’s governing body told The Associated Press on Wednesday that 1 million tickets had been “allocated,” which includes those sold to fans and provided for free. FIFA says the 1 million total also includes “delegations of the teams
playing, commercial affiliates, observers, medical and technical staff.” FIFA has already pulled back from a claim that 20 of the 52 matches were sold out, saying Tuesday that only 14 matches had no availability. (ap) Young fans wearing Japanese flag hair ribbons sit on the stand prior the start of the Women’s World Cup Group D soccer match between Argentina and Japan at the Parc des Princes in Paris, Monday, June 10, 2019.
AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino
Pogba, De Ligt agent goes to CAS to overturn ban from soccer
Germany gets another 1-0 win at World Cup, beating Spain
VALENCIENNES — As Germany clung on for another 1-0 win at the Women’s World Cup, Martina Voss-Tecklenburg could sense the unease in her team. And considerable relief in edging past Spain. So when the final whistle blew in northern France on Wednesday the coach quickly gathered her players on the field. “There was some tension,” she said. “I told my players we pushed our limits.” The way her side lost possession of the ball still grated. But VossTecklenburg ultimately reminded the squad to be proud and united in the pursuit of a third world title.
The Germans are finding it far from easy going at the start of Group B, relying on Sara Däbritz’s goal in the 42nd minute against the run of play to prevail against the skillful Spanish. “In the last 15 minutes in the first half,” said defender Sara Doorsoun, “we came together and said, ‘OK be more self-confident.’” Däbritz had the confidence to be in the right place to pounce. After goalkeeper Sandra Paños couldn’t keep hold of Alexandra Popp’s header, Däbritz got on the
end of the loose ball and bundled it into the net. “We were playing some great football,” Spain coach Jorge Vilda said through a translator, “and in the end some mistakes cost us dearly against a strong side.” Until that point, the confident passing, the intensity and much of the verve had been coming from Spain in heavy rain. “When we got the ball they put a lot of pressure on our defense,” Doorsoun said. “It was definitely tough to get the ball.” Playing in only their second World Cup, the Spanish were more than just equals to a second-ranked
team that has made at least the quarterfinals in all eight editions of the FIFA tournament. What was missing was the ability to complete well-worked moves with a goal. When a high ball was sent to Nahikari Garcia in the 14th minute, the forward broke through the center backs. But with only goalkeeper Almuth Schult to beat, Garcia sent the ball wide. “We showed what Spain can do on the pitch and I think the team is strengthened by our performance,” said Vilda, whose side opened with a victory over South Africa. “We have to never been as close as we
are now ... and we need to use this as a basis for growth.” So does Germany, which opened with the 1-0 victory over China. “We know that we have to play better,” Doorsoun said. “But mentality of the team is good.” But Germany will still be without Dzsenifer Marozsan for the final group game against South Africa as the midfielder recovers from a broken toe. “In the difficult situations she helps out every player,” Voss-Tecklenburg said, “because she doesn’t lose many balls. It would have been great to have her with us. We tried to compensate her loss.” (ap)
LAUSANNE — The Court of Arbitration for Sport says soccer agent Mino Raiola, whose clients include Paul Pogba and Matthijs de Ligt, seeks an urgent verdict to overturn his three-month ban. CAS says it aims to give a verdict by early July in Raiola’s appeal against the ban imposed in Italy by the Italian soccer federation, then extended worldwide by FIFA. Raiola already can work in countries outside Italy after the court froze FIFA’s decision pending a final decision in his appeal. It is unclear how the limit on Raiola’s work could affect deals for his players. Manchester United is reportedly open to selling Pogba this offseason, while 19-year-old De Ligt is wanted by several top clubs after he impressed in Ajax’s run to the Champions League semifinals. (ap)
AP Photo/Martin Meissner
Netherlands’ Matthijs de Ligt, left, fights for the ball with England’s Marcus Rashford during the UEFA Nations League semifinal soccer match between Netherlands and England at the D. Afonso Henriques stadium in Guimaraes, Portugal, Thursday, June 6, 2019.
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic sets MLS salary record at $7.2 million
BETHESDA, Md. — LA Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic is earning a Major League Soccer-record $7.2 million salary this season. The 37-year-old Ibrahimovic, who earned a relatively modest $1.5 million last year, broke the previous mark of Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco, who had $7,115,556 in total compensation in both 2017 and 2018. The MLS Players Association said Wednesday the average base salary for all
players this year is $376,174 and the average guaranteed compensation is $417,643, including a prorated share of guaranteed money not attributable to a specific year. The average salary for senior roster nondesignated players increased 13.3% to $345,867 and is up from $138,140 in 2014. Striker Giovani dos Santos, released by the Galaxy in March, is second with a base salary of $4.75 million and total compensation of $6.5 million.
Toronto midfielder Michael Bradley ($6 million base, $6,428,571 total) is third, followed by Toronto striker Jozy Altidore ($4,891,250, $6,332,250), LAFC forward Carlos Vela ($4.5 million base, $6.3 million total), Chicago midfield Bastian Schweinsteiger ($5.6 million base and total), Montreal winger Ignacio Piatti ($530,000, $4,443,333), Toronto midfielder Alejandro Pozuelo ($3.8 million), DC United forward Wayne Rooney ($3.5 million, $3,507,500), Atlanta forward
Josef Martínez ($3 million, $3,058,333), Seattle forward Nicolás Lodeiro ($2 million, $2,502,500), Orlando midfielder Nani ($2,333333, $2,486,250) and Colorado goalkeeper Tim Howard ($2 million, $2,475,000). The minimum salary for each team’s 18-20 senior players rose to $70,250 this season and the minimum for its maximum eight reserve players increased to $56,250. This is the final season of a five-year labor contract.(ap)
FIFA withdraws claim of 1 million tickets sold at World Cup
AP Photo/Michel Spingler
Germany head coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, right, celebrates with her players at the end of the Women’s World Cup Group B soccer match between Spain and Germany at Stade du Hainau in Valenciennes, France, Wednesday, June 12, 2019. Germany won 1-0.
PARIS — FIFA has withdrawn a claim that 1 million tickets have been sold for the Women’s World Cup and now says the total includes people paying nothing to attend games, including VIPs and even medical staff. FIFA deleted a tweet posted on Tuesday that said: “One million tickets for the @FIFAWWC 2019 have now been sold!” The sport’s governing body told The Associated Press on Wednesday that 1 million tickets had been “allocated,” which includes those sold to fans and provided for free. FIFA says the 1 million total also includes “delegations of the teams
playing, commercial affiliates, observers, medical and technical staff.” FIFA has already pulled back from a claim that 20 of the 52 matches were sold out, saying Tuesday that only 14 matches had no availability. (ap) Young fans wearing Japanese flag hair ribbons sit on the stand prior the start of the Women’s World Cup Group D soccer match between Argentina and Japan at the Parc des Princes in Paris, Monday, June 10, 2019.
AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino
Pogba, De Ligt agent goes to CAS to overturn ban from soccer
Germany gets another 1-0 win at World Cup, beating Spain
VALENCIENNES — As Germany clung on for another 1-0 win at the Women’s World Cup, Martina Voss-Tecklenburg could sense the unease in her team. And considerable relief in edging past Spain. So when the final whistle blew in northern France on Wednesday the coach quickly gathered her players on the field. “There was some tension,” she said. “I told my players we pushed our limits.” The way her side lost possession of the ball still grated. But VossTecklenburg ultimately reminded the squad to be proud and united in the pursuit of a third world title.
The Germans are finding it far from easy going at the start of Group B, relying on Sara Däbritz’s goal in the 42nd minute against the run of play to prevail against the skillful Spanish. “In the last 15 minutes in the first half,” said defender Sara Doorsoun, “we came together and said, ‘OK be more self-confident.’” Däbritz had the confidence to be in the right place to pounce. After goalkeeper Sandra Paños couldn’t keep hold of Alexandra Popp’s header, Däbritz got on the
end of the loose ball and bundled it into the net. “We were playing some great football,” Spain coach Jorge Vilda said through a translator, “and in the end some mistakes cost us dearly against a strong side.” Until that point, the confident passing, the intensity and much of the verve had been coming from Spain in heavy rain. “When we got the ball they put a lot of pressure on our defense,” Doorsoun said. “It was definitely tough to get the ball.” Playing in only their second World Cup, the Spanish were more than just equals to a second-ranked
team that has made at least the quarterfinals in all eight editions of the FIFA tournament. What was missing was the ability to complete well-worked moves with a goal. When a high ball was sent to Nahikari Garcia in the 14th minute, the forward broke through the center backs. But with only goalkeeper Almuth Schult to beat, Garcia sent the ball wide. “We showed what Spain can do on the pitch and I think the team is strengthened by our performance,” said Vilda, whose side opened with a victory over South Africa. “We have to never been as close as we
are now ... and we need to use this as a basis for growth.” So does Germany, which opened with the 1-0 victory over China. “We know that we have to play better,” Doorsoun said. “But mentality of the team is good.” But Germany will still be without Dzsenifer Marozsan for the final group game against South Africa as the midfielder recovers from a broken toe. “In the difficult situations she helps out every player,” Voss-Tecklenburg said, “because she doesn’t lose many balls. It would have been great to have her with us. We tried to compensate her loss.” (ap)
LAUSANNE — The Court of Arbitration for Sport says soccer agent Mino Raiola, whose clients include Paul Pogba and Matthijs de Ligt, seeks an urgent verdict to overturn his three-month ban. CAS says it aims to give a verdict by early July in Raiola’s appeal against the ban imposed in Italy by the Italian soccer federation, then extended worldwide by FIFA. Raiola already can work in countries outside Italy after the court froze FIFA’s decision pending a final decision in his appeal. It is unclear how the limit on Raiola’s work could affect deals for his players. Manchester United is reportedly open to selling Pogba this offseason, while 19-year-old De Ligt is wanted by several top clubs after he impressed in Ajax’s run to the Champions League semifinals. (ap)
AP Photo/Martin Meissner
Netherlands’ Matthijs de Ligt, left, fights for the ball with England’s Marcus Rashford during the UEFA Nations League semifinal soccer match between Netherlands and England at the D. Afonso Henriques stadium in Guimaraes, Portugal, Thursday, June 6, 2019.
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Froome has surgery, in intensive care after high-speed crash
Mohd RASFAN / AFP
Malaysia’s badminton player Lee Chong Wei (L) cries during a press conference to announce his retirement in Putrajaya on June 13, 2019.
Cucukan Beach GIANYAR - Cucukan Village is home to around 200 local Balinese who have lived for hundreds of years within the area, with not a great deal changing over the years. Its secluded proximity to the rest of the island has provided an opportunity for this tiny village to achieve its own special identity. These gentle Balinese farmers, who tend their rice paddies, geese, ducks and pigs, are also expert fishermen who launch in the early hours bringing back an array of fresh lobster and delectable seafood each day. The magical black sand beach serves as a dramatic backdrop to village life. Witness the most breathtaking sunrises as the day begins with rays illuminating the ocean horizon. A favourite with internationally titled surfers the beach is also frequented by locals col-
lecting the dazzling stones and shells that wash up on shore. Cucukan is located east side of Bali, north from Keramas. It is not crowded because it is far from Sanur, and it is good to go there when Keramas is crowded. Cucukan becomes popular as good wave recently. It takes about 40 min. from Kuta by bike, and it is not good road from By-pass to beach. The beach is in front of house of former president, Megawati. There are 3 peaks, right break in front of warung and left side of warung and right break in right side. Normally, long ride is possible in right break. There is left break but it is short riding. It tends to be good condition when it is going to high tide. The bottom is reef and shallow when its low tide. It is recommended to wear reef boots. (IBP/net)
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Tears as badminton star Lee quits after cancer battle
PUTRAJAYA - Cancer-hit badminton star Lee Chong Wei announced his retirement Thursday, ending a brilliant career in which he collected a swathe of honours but never won a world or Olympic title. Lee, who spent a total of 348 weeks as world number one but lost six world and Olympic finals, wept as he called it quits months after fighting off nose cancer. “My decision to retire is a heavy one. I really love this sport. But it is a demanding sport. I thank all Malaysians for the past 19 years,” Lee, 36, told a news conference. Lee, a father of two, was diagnosed with early-stage nose cancer last year and after intensive treatment in Taiwan he said he was keen to play again. But he hasn’t trained since April and after missing a series of selfimposed deadlines to return to competition, his hopes of being eligible for next year’s Tokyo Olympics were remote. The three-time Olympic silver medallist said he now wanted to rest and spend time with his family, and even take his wife on a “honeymoon”, a trip that has been delayed since their marriage in 2012. He finishes his career with 705 wins and 69 titles, including five Commonwealth Games gold medals, four All England victories and a record 47 Superseries triumphs. Lee’s unsuccessful attempts to capture Malaysia’s first ever Olympic
gold medal, reaching three consecutive finals, were followed avidly by his fans, as was his long-running rivalry with Chinese superstar Lin Dan. His last shot at the Olympic title at Rio 2016 ended in crushing disappointment when the Malaysian lost out to China’s Chen Long in a nail-biting final. Lin posted to his four million followers on China’s Twitter-like Weibo: “I will be alone on the (badminton) court and no one will accompany me.” He also posted a link to a Chinese ballad called “Friends Don’t Cry”. “Lin Dan and myself are rivals in the court but outside the court, we are close friends,” Lee said when asked about their rivalry. “I hope Lin Dan will play in the Tokyo Olympics. But he faces challenges from younger players.” - ‘Lee is a legend’ Cancer proved the career-ending blow but it wasn’t the only low for Lee, who was banned after testing positive for a banned antiinflammatory at the 2014 world championships. The long-time former world number one returned to the sport in 2015, after authorities accepted he took the
drug inadvertently. “I have no regrets. More important is my health, the decision to retire is very tough,” said Lee, adding that his cancer treatment was now over. “My plan to retire was originally after the Olympic Games. I made this decision due to my health. “You know I got married in 2012. But we (have) never gone for a honeymoon. I owe this promise (to my wife), now I have to please her.” Lee said that at his last check-up in Taiwan in April he was told by his doctor to rest as “badminton requires high-intensity training”. Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) president Norza Zakaria, who was at the news conference, described Lee as a “legend”. “It is a sad day. Lee is a legend and very dependable. We accept his decision,” Norza said. Malaysian sports minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman described Lee as “a hero to all Malaysians... someone like him comes once in a lifetime”. He said Lee will be the chief of mission for the Malaysian contingent to the Tokyo Games. As he began announcing his retirement, Lee paused for almost a minute as tears rolled down his cheeks. “I fought for my country all the way,” said Lee, now down at 191 in the rankings. “It’s my retirement day.” (afp)
SAINT-ETIENNE - Fourtime Tour de France winner Chris Froome has undergone surgery and was in intensive care Thursday a day after slamming into a wall at high speed and suffering multiple fractures. The force of the impact during practice ahead of the fourth stage of the Criterium du Dauphine race in central France fractured his pelvis, right femur, and left him with broken ribs and a broken right elbow. “He’s not in great shape. There are crashes and bad crashes and this was a bad crash,” said his Ineos team principal Dave Brailsford. He said the 34-year-old Briton had undergone initial surgery which had gone well and “will remain in hospital for at least two days in Saint-Etienne” before a decision on further treatment, possibly back home in Britain, is taken. Brailsford said Froome had no hope of competing in the Tour de France next month and his full focus was now on recovery after the horror crash which happened on a downhill stretch of road in the Loire region. Froome was riding with Dutch teammate Wout Poels when he lost control of his bike and slammed into the wall of a house at full speed. “We have had a look at his
data, he went from 54km/h to a dead stop,” Brailsford said. The accident happened in the village of Saint-Andre d’Apchon. Froome had taken his hands off the handlebars in order to blow his nose “and the wind’s taken his front wheel and he’s hit a wall,” Brailsford added. Following treatment on site Froome was airlifted to intensive care at Saint-Etienne hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. F r o o m e ’s w i f e M i c h e l l e Cound tweeted that she was on her way to join him there and asked fans to keep the rider “in your thoughts.” Brailsford said that Froome had worked “incredibly hard to get in fantastic shape and had been on track for the Tour” which starts on July 6 from Brussels. The Criterium du Dauphine represents a full dress rehearsal and Froome was doing well, in eighth spot before the crash. Late Wednesday, Brailsford said Froome had the mental force needed in the battle for recovery that lay ahead. “One of the things which sets Chris apart is his mental strength and resilience - and we will support him totally in his recovery, help him to recalibrate and assist him in pursuing his future goals and ambitions.” (afp)
Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP
Team Ineos rider Great Britain’s Christopher Froome rides during the third stage of the 71st edition of the Criterium du Dauphine cycling race, 177 km between Le Puy-en-Velay and Riom on June 11, 2019.
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War, depression, suicide: American veterans are finding help CENTER MORICHES - Roger King was 19 when he enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 2005. He left four years later after two deployments in Iraq, where a sniper’s bullet nearly cost him his life. Once home, he faced a new set of problems in his return to civilian life on New York’s Long Island, including a suffocating sense of anxiety and difficulty being in group situations. King was suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a traumatic brain injury (TBI) -- two afflictions sadly common among veterans of the largest army in the world, bogged down in seemingly endless conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Increasingly depressed by the challenges of his new life, King began drinking. This solidly built 33-year-old man quietly confides that he attempted suicide -- twice. Russell Keyzer -- another New Yorker -- joined the National Guard shortly after the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. Now 42, he suffers from flashbacks, insomnia, panic attacks and other PTSD symptoms following two years with NATO’s
multinational force in Kosovo, where periods of relative stability alternated with violent outbursts. After returning home in 2008, Keyzer sank into a life of drinking and depression. His marriage came crashing down and he found himself homeless. On no fewer than seven occasions, he says, he attempted to kill himself. Today, King and Keyzer say they are doing much better, thanks in large part to an aid group for veterans, the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project, a non-profit organization created in 2012 in tribute to an army medic who killed himself in 2008 after returning home from Iraq.
- ‘More needs to be done’ -
King and Keyzer spoke about their darker times at a recent “Wellness Day” organized by the association at a park in the coastal village of Center Moriches. Veterans enjoyed a picnic, a salute to the US flag, yoga, meditation and kayaking -- all activities intended to foster a sense of security and camaraderie. Some 20 organizations also set up stands to offer assistance. “More needs to be done,” King said. Groups like the Dwyer Project “should have been done in World War I, World War II, Vietnam.”
He now leads a group of a dozen veterans for the project. They meet weekly. “We thought of AA, NA,” he said, referring to Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, but “it’s like you never really thought maybe this might help for veterans.” Now, King added, “the compassion and the caring is getting there.” Keyzer agreed. “If the proper resources were there when we came home, we would not be in this position ... We would not have turned to drugs, we would not have turned to alcoholism,” he said. But he added: “Things are slowly changing for the better every day. There are more and more veterans’ programs out there.” - Peer support -
Don Emmert / AFP
Roger King answers questions while attending the Joseph Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project June 1, 2019 in Center Moriches, New York.
Two tankers... From page 1
It said the vessel was about 70 nautical miles from the United Arab Emirates and just 14 from the coast of Iran. Japan’s
Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Hiroshige Seko told reporters in Tokyo: “A tanker carrying Japan-related goods was attacked. “There were no injuries among the crew members. They
got off the tanker. There were no Japanese members.” The incident came as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was on an unprecedented visit to Iran, seeking to defuse tensions between Toyko’s ally Washing-
ton and the Islamic Republic. Tehran said it has dispatched a helicopter from the port of Bandar-e-Jask to the ships’ location for “further investigation”. The US Fifth Fleet said: “We are aware of the reported
Psychological support groups like the Dwyer Project have indeed been multiplying across the United States, as the world’s leading superpower struggles to help its 20 million veterans -- nearly 10 percent of the adult population -- overcome their challenges and thoughts of suicide. Many recent veterans are at the opposite end of the spectrum from the proud and smiling men and women who assembled in Normandy last week to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion during World War II. More than 6,000 veterans -many of them gun owners -- killed themselves each year from 2008 to 2016, according to a report published late last year by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). By comparison, a total of 6,951 American troops died in major war zones between 2001 and 2018, according to an analysis from Brown University. Faced with those sobering statistics, the VA -- which administers some 1,200 hospitals and clinics -- has made suicide prevention a priority, establishing a hotline for troubled veterans that is among the most heavily used in the world. (afp)
attack on tankers in the Gulf of Oman. “US naval forces in the region received two separate distress calls at 6:12 am. local time and a second one at 7:00 am.” (afp)
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Police advise people against visiting Jakarta over election dispute
BANDUNG - West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudy Sufahriadi appealed to the province’s residents to not visit Jakarta over the presidential election dispute whose trial at the Constitutional Court (MK) will be held on June 14-28.
“We have urged them similar to what the governor had done. Hence, we will not conduct an operation to stop them. (We) are just urging,” he noted here on Thursday. Sufahriadi requested the people to stay put where they are and follow the legal process by the MK instead of visiting the MK building in Jakarta. He had given assurance that the MK would maintain a neutral stance and process the dispute in line with the existent laws. “Until today, we continue to make attempts (to urge them) to not go there. We are trying,” he stated. Earlier, West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil had called on the local residents to lay their trust on MK in processing the dispute. Ridwan Kamil urged them to stay at home while awaiting the MK’s verdict on the presidential election dispute filed by presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto, who alleged massive fraud in the election. “It would be better for us to wait at home. We will see the result. Everything is being handled by the MK since our country is a legal state. Hence, to maintain conducive situation, the people of West Java should not go too far. Leave it to the Constitutional Court,” the governor stated. Indonesia had held simultaneous legislative and presidential elections on April 17, 2019. The General Elections Commission (KPU), on May 22 at 1:28 a.m. local time, had declared the final results of the elections, detailing the victory of the Joko Widodo (Jokowi)-Ma’ruf Amin pair. The final tally indicated the Jokowi-Amin pair had won 85 million votes, or 55.5 percent of the national vote, as compared to contenders Prabowo SubiantoSandiaga Uno’s 68 million votes, or 44.5 percent. The Jokowi-Amin pair had declared victory, while the Subianto-Uno pair rejected the KPU’s official tabulation result and vowed to challenge it in the MK. On May 24, 2019, a lawyer team of the Subianto-Uno pair filed a lawsuit at the MK over the disputed election results. (ant)
AP Photo/Binsar Bakkara, File
In this Nov. 23, 2012, file photo, a Muslim protester of Islam Defenders Front (FPI) wears a mock-suicide bomb during a demonstration against Israel’s recent offensive against Palestinians in Gaza, outside the building that houses the U.S. consulate in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. The Islamic Defenders Front, better known for vigilante actions against gays, Christmas decorations and prostitution, has over the past decade and a half repurposed its militia into a force that’s as adept at searching for victims buried under earthquake rubble and distributing aid as it is at inspiring fear.
Police detain 34 terror suspects in Central Kalimantan PA L A N G K A R AYA Palangka Raya, C Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Police’s anti-terror squad (Densus 88) and the Central Kalimantan Police took into detention 34 suspected terrorists, including women and children, in Palangka Raya and Gunung Mas District. The police have named two of them, identified by their initials
as A and T, as suspects while the rest are yet under investigation, a spokesman of the Central Kalimantan Police Senior Commissioner Hendra Rochmawan stated here on Thursday. “The group’s existence in Central Kalimantan was facilitated by Ansyari, a resident of Palangka Raya, since early 2019,” he remarked.
The group, with alleged links to terrorist network Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), is viewed as a dangerous group, as all its members are trained in assembling high-explosive bombs. “They target the police in Jakarta, not in Central Kalimantan,” he noted. During the raid conducted at several locations in Palangka
Raya, the anti-terror squad had managed to confiscate materials for assembling bombs. “They have been in Central Kalimantan for six months to undergo training and start to move after receiving instruction to go to Jakarta,” Rochmawan explained. In 2018, the group, headquartered in Aceh, was dissolved af-
ter Densus 88 arrested its several members. One of them had fled to Central Kalimantan. “It is, in fact, a group of absconders. They are not in selfimposed exile while collecting fund and training,” he added. The group has planned to trigger unrest and terror in some regions in the country, Rochmawan stated. (ant)
Fishing boats ply in inundated Morowali to transport people, goods
MOROWALI - Several fishing boats have been deployed to facilitate the movement of people and goods in Morowali District, Central Sulawesi, reeling from the impact of flooding. “We have deployed two Inkamina boats and several other small speed boats owned by our members to facilitate the transportation of
goods and people in Bahodopi Subdistrict, Morowali District,” Syahrul, chairman of a local fishermen’s association, noted in Bungku, the capital of Morowali District, here on Thursday. Fishing boats are highly sought after for transporting goods and people since several bridges, including Dampala Bridge, located in Bahodopi, had
beeen destroyed by flooding. The 35 GT-Inkamina boats carried motorcycles, LPG tubes, sugar, rice, mineral water, eggs, vegetables, and other commodities. He revealed that the boat owners charged their clients lesser tariffs than regular days. The local authorities are currently building an iron bridge over
Dampala River in place of the old one that collapsed after being hit by flooding. The new bridge is expected to be ready in the next three days. Flooding has hit Morowali over the past six days, rendering two people missing and submerging hundreds of homes and public facilities, such as schools, markets,
and offices. At least four bridges, located along the Trans Central Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi highway, were destroyed by floods that also isolated several villages. The flooding was triggered by incessant heavy rains and environmental damages due to nickel mining activities. (ant)
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BUSINESS Trade tensions boosted euro’s global role in 2018: ECB
Fear of trade conflicts, sanctions and challenges to the multilateral order contributed to a rebound in worldwide use of the euro in 2018 from historic lows, the European Central Bank said Thursday. “It’s primarily the diversification out of the dollar which benefits the euro, because it is the second-most used currency and second-most liquid for investors,” ECB board member Benoit Coeure told reporters in Frankfurt. Aside from commercial tensions, internal reforms within the eurozone to deepen the economic and monetary union between the members also helped, the ECB found in its annual report on the euro’s global role. Euros made up some 20.7 percent of global foreign currency reserves in 2018, measured at constant exchange rates -- up 1.2 percentage points year-on-year. Meanwhile, the dollar remained top dog, but fell to its lowest share since the euro’s launch 20 years ago, at 61.7 percent. “Some central banks might have started to consider reducing their positions in financial assets exposed to the risks of unilateral actions,” the ECB said. Russia -- one of the world’s biggest holders of reserves -- sold $100 billion in 2018 after a new round of American sanctions, instead buying up $90 billion worth of euros and Chinese yuan. The central bank also found that the proportion of new euro-denominated debt from non-eurozone issuers grew 2.5 percentage points last year, to 22.7 percent, while the dollar’s share shrank by eight points to below 61 percent. And the proportion of international payments for goods and services in euros held steady. Looking ahead, “the international role of the euro should be decided by market forces,” Coeure said, although the ECB is able to support it “in the technical field”. “For instance by supporting the integration of European payments, that can make it easier, faster and cheaper for international investors to use euro denominated assets.” Meanwhile, strengthening the economic and monetary union between euro member countries should also provide the foundation for use of the currency to grow internationally. The European Commission prodded member states Wednesday to complete reforms to the single currency bloc, including an embryonic joint budget for the 19 member states -- on the agenda at a “Eurogroup” finance ministers’ meeting Thursday. (afp)
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Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA trajectories of Balinese Visual Arts Titillating title eclipses content
‘Masters of Bali’, the title of an exhibition which opened in Nusa Dua on May 25th, 2019, is indeed a bold and a clever way of attracting attention to the plethora of masterful Balinese artists -past and present. On the surface, the title appears to be presenting the greatest of Balinese artists and gives hope that some kind of timeline or framework for appreciating Bali’s greatest and most influential artists might be offered. While the relatively large exhibition does in many ways bear witness to the abundance, diversity and high quality of art being produced by Balinese artists, its promise of presenting the extent or means of understanding this diverse and high-quality lineage falls short of being fulfilled.
AP Photo/Thibault Camus
France’s Prime Minister Edouard Philippe delivers a speech at the National Assembly, in Paris, Wednesday, June 12, 2019. France’s prime minister vowed to keep reforming the country’s economy through changes to the unemployment benefits, the pension system and tax cuts for middle-class workers. Edouard Philippe laid down Wednesday the government’s upcoming priorities at the lower house of parliament, the National Assembly.
France pledges to reform economy, boost competitiveness PARIS - France’s prime minister said Wednesday that the government of President Emmanuel Macron plans to keep reforming the economy to boost its competitiveness, with changes to unemployment benefits and the pension system and plans to help out middle-class workers with tax cuts.
Addressing the lower house of parliament, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe laid out the government’s upcoming priorities after two years in office. Responding to often violent yellow vest protests against Macron’s policies that started in November, Philippe acknowledged it was “a mistake” that the government sometimes took decisions too quickly and without enough public consultation. “We want to change our manner of governing. We are and will remain reformers. But we must further involve the French in the decision-making,” he said. Critics say Macron’s economic policies tend to favor the wealthy and big businesses and are out of touch with everyday life. In what he called the “Act II” of Macron’s
term —which runs until 2022— Philippe listed a series of economic reforms which he said aimed to make France’s economy more competitive. Philippe said tax cuts will focus on middle-class workers, including 18 million French households who will see their annual incomes increase by about 180 to 350 euros ($204 to $396) next year on average. “With the President of the Republic, we received loud and clear the message of exasperation against taxes that the French people sent us. They no longer want words but acts,” he said. A reform of France’s generous unemployment benefits system will be presented next week — notably reducing benefits that
wealthier workers are entitled to. France’s unemployment rate has decreased, falling to 8.4 percent at the beginning of the year, its lowest in 10 years, Philippe said. Moves to reform the pension system will keep the legal retirement age at 62 — but benefits for those who do so will decrease, to encourage people to work longer. Details are expected to be unveiled in July. Another bill later this year will grant single women and lesbian couples access to medically assisted reproduction, a campaign promise from Macron. The procedures are currently restricted to heterosexual couples. Philippe confirmed France will remain militarily involved in the fight against the Islamic State group and in Africa’s Sahel region. At home “we will maintain constant vigilance against the terrorist threat”, he said. A debate followed the prime minister’s speech at the National Assembly, where Macron’s party has a strong majority. (ap)
While the title appears to pay homage to the tremendous creativity of Balinese artists and the ancestral lineage of art production on the island, it also runs the risk of eclipsing the truly astounding amount and quality of art created by Balinese artists, the roots of their inspiration and the directions or trajectories taken by them, by implying that the exhibition represents some kind of distinct albeit widely encompassing narrative of Balinese art. The word ‘master’ is indeed an ambiguous term, however, it generally implies talent and influence and often some kind of important innovation or contributions to a particular aesthetic or conceptual narrative. Although most of the artists presented in the show certainly qualify as masters of one kind or another, wherein their mastery lies is certainly not clear given that the aesthetic narrative of which they might represent a kind of peek was absent from the exhibition as a whole. Without such a framing it is hard to ascribe mastery to the works presented and many distinctly masterful artists were conspicuously missing too. Of course, it is impossible to trace all the lines of the diverse lineages that inform art on the island, and perhaps this fact was part of the perhaps intended ambiguity of the exhibition. However, it is hard to deny that certain clear lines are easily demonstrable and those who show mastery precisely for their creative divergence or commentary on these lines are also clear. So, an exhibition which pretends to present the masters of Bali, but which does not present the context or lineage of the particular divergence from, expansion of, or creative innovation of the artistic being presented, is poised for criticism and perhaps intentionally so. What constitutes a masterful artist, to what extent the mastery of Balinese artists can be represented in a single show and who determines such criteria and for what purpose may be questions of little importance to the ultimate purpose of showcasing Balinese talent in general – especially in this particular context. Perhaps the title was deliberately chosen to trigger dialogue or what might more aptly be called free advertising, as most of the major influences, roots, and departures from established artistic norms are well documented and could have been brought to light in a relatively clear or even controversial manner. Instead of presenting either an established narrative or a distinctly alternative one, Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA Trajectories of Balinese Visual Art presents a more fluid or one might say ambiguous framing of the show. This is not to say that the works presented in the exhibition or even that the loose narrative is without value. Many of the artworks in the
exhibition are indeed worthy of note for a variety of reason, including for their diverse examples of technical mastery, creativity, unique beauty, influence as well as for clearly referencing cultural, social and economic contexts. Also –despite the rather unclear manner in which the narrative of the show as a whole is presented, this ambiguity -it could be argued, in fact speaks to the difficulty of placing a square peg in a round hole, a way of showing that the DNA of Balinese aesthetics yields creativity in a general way that is beyond strict categorization. Given the fact that Bali’s socio-religious context plays such a massive role in the lived aesthetic experience of Balinese people, that unlike most of the world, here art plays a very strong non-economically driven yet nonetheless utilitarian role and that the depth of the associated aesthetic lexicon is widely understood by the general public, art in Bali can clearly not be evaluated in the same way as art from elsewhere can be. Despite the introductory description of the exhibition stating that the purpose of the show was indeed to present works within the particular context of Bali described as “art is…. integral part of society for rituals or customs”, as opposed to how Balinese art fits into narratives from abroad, and more particularly to show works that draw on the lexicon of traditional Balinese aesthetics in innovative ways, described as: ”attempts to examine the aesthetic achievements of art in Bali and reconsider artistic practice as a search of form or visual within the context of: religious, ritual, culture or social and economic activity in Bali by escaping from the canonical point of view which dichotomizes, breaching other paradigm boundaries”. Not all of the works on display, however, were speaking of or to Balinese canonical points of view and if it is other paradigm boundaries that are being breached then what is it that holds the show together? Is not all art either speaking to, from or about one paradigm or another? Is the implication that this exhibition is paying homage to masters who breach different paradigms that are related to Balinese aesthetics in one way or another? The description seems strange at best and at worst suspicious. Most people would agree that it is highly unlikely that any Balinese artist could be entirely free of the cultural or aesthetic influences of traditional Balinese religio-cultural practices. This is not to say that all Balinese artists are directly responding to or speaking about it, only that the lineage of art practices on the island is rooted in these traditions and when speaking of masters, there is an implied reference to lineage, a kind of peek in a given narrative, so that even artists who are not speaking to or about tradition, are
also part of a lineage with peeks in achievements by distinct masters. So, the question that the title Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA trajectories of Balinese visual Arts poses is: what narrative is guiding the selection process and presentation? While the verbal description says it is the development of visual arts rooted in the aesthetic traditions of Bali but which seek to question the ideas behind it, the works do not bear this out. Showing that Balinese artists have a particularly rich set of visual aesthetic references to draw on and that their manipulation of them can be used either to support their underlying meanings, question or even to subvert would perhaps have been more accurate in describing the exhibition as a whole, as the works on display indeed fall into all three categories and then some. Instead, the exhibition allowed itself carte blanche to show what appears to be a kind of random bunch of artworks by Balinese artists of note with a few references to established branches of “classic Balinese art” and an oddly out of place reference to a student art movement revolting against the art market establishment of the turn of this millennia with no indication of how this movement referenced Balinese aesthetics at all. In terms of a general display of Balinese artistic talent, this question may not be important, particularly given that art is after all meant to be appreciated as a non-verbal means of communication and always open to personal interpretation of color, line, and composition and to a certain extent context (though again here some framing of context would have been appreciated for this show). Regardless there is clearly a long history of remarkable art production in Bali, which has clearly been passed down through the generations in one form or another and maybe that is all we need to know. In this respect, ‘Master of Bali’ does indeed offer the viewer many interesting, beautiful and noteworthy works of interest including: the detailed, humorous and beautiful 6-meter long
work based on the traditional Batuan style of painting, the impressive power of pure line and color demonstrated with great expression in exaggerated abstract style, fragments of Balinese decorative elements reconstructed into stark new visually disruptive yet somehow harmonious compositions, spontaneous pointillism rendered in color-rich swatches of cosmic proportions, deep psychological quandaries presented with deceptively refined characters, the unending unfolding of creation presented through the honest placement of line and color unhindered by personal calculations, the intricate and subtle construction of spatial dimensions that seem impossibly complex yet distinctly simple, and other works that have indeed influenced many artists, that have merit by any standards and others that have questionable aesthetic merit though perhaps have hidden value elsewhere. The clever title of the exhibition leaves a fair amount of leeway for both its presentation and interpretations of the works and, whether this ambiguity was intended or not, it does carve out a space for the audience to consider that the wealth of art that has been and continues to be produced in Bali is so wide in breadth, deep in meanings, expansive in all directions, incredibly focused in particular minutia, distinctly rooted in tradition and entirely beyond such notions, that attempting to measure its value by any previously established norms for evaluating art are simply ill-suited. A kind of invitation to put aside all such measures for evaluation and to simply enjoy the power and beauty of art -as all art is essentially intended to be, felt and appreciated as an example of the endless expressions of the human soul. For this, Masters of Bali: Aesthetic DNA trajectories of Balinese Visual Aesthetics is certainly worth viewing, though a few days spent visiting the many art galleries, artists studios, and museums of Ubud, Denpasar, Sanur and a trip to Kamasan and Batuan would perhaps yield a greater appreciation for the general context out of which such artworks emerge and to which they speak. (kmb)
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Bali News
Friday, June 14, 2019
International
Friday, June 14, 2019
International
Abandoned for long time
Back to the Hanfu-ture: Young Chinese revive ancient fashion
Pool area wants to be managed by village authority BANGLI - The existence of swimming pool in the Kubu education center, Bangli, posing an asset of the Bangli district, has been abandoned for years. Kubu village authority has the desire to manage the asset after it has changed the status into a village. Headman of Kubu, Arya Wibowo, when contacted on Wednesday (Jun. 12) revealed that the abandonment of the swimming pool had been going on for a long time. The swimming pool near the Gurukula School was last managed and taken advantage by residents eight years ago. After that, it was closed by the district government. He could not say for sure when the swimming pool was built by the government and why the pool was not used any longer and left abandoned until now. According to him, if only the swimming pool can be managed and opened to the public, many people will come and use it. Certainly it will bring in income. Arya admitted that he truly had the desire to manage the assets of the district government. However, there is limited authority because Kubu has the status as kelurahan (urban administrative village) where it cannot receive the grants in the form of asset from district government. “If later the Kubu has changed the status to a village, we can propose to get the grant, while urban administrative village cannot,” he said.
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Having been granted, he is going to utilize and arrange the swimming pool to become a water tourism spot. He is confident the swimming pool will be crowded. Moreover, the location is quite strategic. As is known, the existence of the swimming pool in the Kubu education center remains abandoned. Around 2015, the utilization plan was discussed at a working meeting between the Bangli Education Agency and the House of Representatives. But until now, there are no indications if the swimming pool will soon be utilized As the monitoring made some time ago in the area, there are two units of large size swimming pool. Other than the swimming pool, there are also two buildings as dressing rooms and toilets and two units of gazebo on the south and north sides of the pool. Unfortunately, even though the condition of swimming pool and gazebo is still quite sturdy and good, the pool area looks very dirty and neglected. Water of the swimming pool that should be clear now looks dirty brown. Wild grasses and shrubs are seen to be allowed to grow high around the pool even to get to the point where they creep into buildings in the southern part of the pool. Not only that, the gate having been locked with padlock has also begun to break down so that people can easily come in. By some residents, the pool is used as a fishing ground. (kmb40)
IBP/kmb
The appeal is also meant to secure fishing gear and keep the jukung or boat off the coast because ahead of full moon there will be tidal waves as usual.
Huge waves
Fishermen and people asked not to do beach activities
TABANAN - Actually huge waves have been predicted by a number of fishermen armed with weather satellite predictions because this phenomenon often occurs every year. However, the height of this year’s waves cannot be predicted.
IBP/kmb
The existence of swimming pool in the Kubu education center, Bangli, posing an asset of the Bangli district, has been abandoned for years.
Chairperson of the Indonesia Fishermen Association (HNSI) of Tabanan Chapter, Arsana Yasa or familiarly addressed Sadam, stated that his organization had given a good appeal through a short and verbal message so that until Friday (Jun. 14) all fishermen in the southern sea of Bali and Java not to go to sea. The appeal is also meant to secure fishing gear and keep the jukung or boat off the coast because ahead of full moon there will be tidal waves as usual. Likewise to the general public, Arsana Yasa advised not to play or bathe on the South Coast. “A danger of huge waves with strong currents will come at any time and yesterday was the peak reaching 4 to 5.5 meters. This Wednesday drops to 4 meters while on Friday drops again to 3 meters,” he explained on Wednesday (Jun. 12). Sadam also asked the public
to be more vigilant in reading natural conditions that are less friendly lately. “Considering the weather and climate on the coast of the South Bali return to go unfriendly, it is advisable for people not to visit places on the beach,” he hoped. Vigilance against huge waves is also a concern of security officers at Tanah Lot tourist attraction considering the wave height at Tanah Lot reaches 4 meters. Tourists are also limited to be on the beach. The management has posted signpost and red flags to forbid crossing. One of Tanah Lot’s lifeguards, I Wayan Buda Kertiasa, said the wave conditions at Tanah Lot are quite high, but now it has started to go down because before Tuesday (Jun. 11) the height reached 6 meters. “Nevertheless, we must be aware, too, because currently the waves are still relatively high,”
he said. For security of visitors, a number of warning signposts and red flags have been installed at some points so that tourists are not too close on the beach. Meanwhile, Operations Manager of Tanah Lot, Ketut Toya Adnyana, stated the high waves do not affect tourist visits. Nevertheless, his management together with police officers must remain alert. “It doesn’t affect because the waves aren’t very high,” he explained. According to Toya, his management is not only aware of the high waves by tightening security of visitors to the beach, but also the tidal waves that may happen. Management will close the road access to the shoreline. “We do this to prevent undesirable things from happening. In short, the access will be closed when high tides occur,” he affirmed. (kmb28)
PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA / AFP
Brides and grooms pose after celebrating multiple wedding ceremonies at the city hall and the cathedral during Saint Anthony’s day in Lisbon on June 12, 2019.
Lisbon fetes ‘saint of love’ with free deluxe weddings
LISBON - It is Lisbon’s wedding of the year. Crowds gather at the cathedral, hoping to catch a glimpse of the newlyweds as cameras lie in wait. Suddenly, the organ music grows louder and photographers get into position in front of the imposing entrance. Then not one, but 11 couples walk out, fresh from tying the knot Wednesday in an allexpenses-paid ceremony, the beneficiaries of a decades-long annual tradition that fetes the Portuguese capital’s beloved patron Saint Anthony, matchmaker extraordinaire. Financed by sponsors and TV rights, broadcast live on television, couples who would not otherwise have the means are gifted a deluxe wedding worth 400,000 euros ($450,000). Couples like fishmongers Tania Silva and Orlando Antunes, who are getting a one-off taste of mega fame on the eve of Saint Anthony day on June 13, the high point of days-long street-dancing, sardine-grilling festivities in Lisbon.
“We’ve been together for nearly 15 years,” said Tania, 30. “We always joked that we would one day get married for Saint Anthony. It’s a sumptuous ceremony which we could never afford.” - Interviews, selfies For Tania and her sister brides, the day begins early at city hall. For hours, they sit in front of identical mirrors in a room normally used for town hall meetings, Lisbon’s trademark trams passing in the street outside. Hairdressers and makeup artists who competed nationwide for the honour of styling them busy themselves around the brides, a television presenter diving in for the odd interview, an anxious parent taking a quick selfie. Tania’s slightly nervous. “I’m trying to keep calm but it’s difficult,” she says, laughing, as her hairdresser fixes her blond locks into an updo.
In the room next door hang the white wedding dresses, all donated by different designers. “Breathe,” jokes one bride as a helper tightens her lacy corset. All in all, 16 couples are getting married, five of them in a civil ceremony. They go first, appearing on the balcony of city hall after the event, waving down to a cheering crowd as a band from Lisbon University plays a serenade and a television drone films the moment. The 11 other couples are destined for the cathedral, some 650 metres (2,100 feet) away up a steep hill at the entrance of Lisbon’s famed Alfama old quarter. The brides are driven up the cobbled street in convertible vintage cars, getting out one by one and forming an orderly line as they wait to enter. Two hours later, the couples walk out, married, smiling. There is still more to come. Group photos, the first dance, interviews, and another public appearance in a giant parade in the evening. (afp)
BEIJING - Dressed in a flowing long robe adorned with beaded floral embroidery from a bygone era, stylist Xiao Hang looks like she surfaced from a time machine as she strides across the bustling Beijing metro, attracting curious glances and inquisitive questions. China has embraced Western fashion and futuristic technology as its economy boomed in recent decades, but a growing number of young people like Xiao are looking to the past for their sartorial choices and donning traditional “hanfu”, or “Han clothing”. These historic costumes of the Han ethnic majority are enjoying a renaissance in part because the government is promoting traditional culture in a bid to boost patriotism and national identity. Period dramas have also contributed to the surge in interest for traditional Chinese garb -- “The Story of Minglan”, a TV series set in the Song Dynasty, garnered more than 400 million viewers in three days when it debuted earlier this year. There is no uniform definition of what counts as hanfu since each Han-dominated dynasty had its own style, but the outfits are characterised by loose, flowing robes that drape around the body, with sleeves that hang down to the knees. “When we were little, we would also drape sheets and duvets around ourselves to pretend we were wearing beautiful clothes,” Xiao told AFP. Xiao, who used to work at a state-owned machine manufacturing company, now runs her own hanfu business, where she dresses customers for photo shoots and even plans hanfu-style weddings.
- Ancient style, new fashion In modern China, the hanfu community spans the gamut: from history enthusiasts to anime fans, to students and even young professionals. Yang Jiaming, a high school student in Beijing, wears his outfit under his school uniform. “Two-thirds of my wardrobe is hanfu,” he said, decked out in a Tang-style beige gown and black boots at a hanfu gathering, adding that his classmates and teachers have been supportive of his style. A government-supported revival in Chinese culture has given the hanfu community a boost: since he entered office in 2012, President Xi Jinping has supported the idea of promoting a Han-centric version of heritage. In April, the Communist Youth League of China launched a twoday conference for traditional Chinese garb, including hanfu. A live broadcast of the event drew some 20 million viewers, alongside a visceral outpouring of emotions. “Chinese people have abandoned their own culture and chosen Western culture. The red marriage gown has now become a wedding dress,” wrote on user on Bilibili, a video streaming platform popular among young anime, comic and gaming fans in China. Clothes are the “foundation of culture,” said Jiang Xue, who is part of Beijing-based hanfu club Mowutianxia, which has received funding from the Communist Youth League. “If we as a people and as a country do not even understand our traditional clothing or don’t wear them, how can we talk about other essential parts of our culture?” she said. (afp)
GREG BAKER / AFP
This photo taken on April 5, 2019 shows women wearing “hanfu” - traditional Chinese clothing - rehearsing for a performance at a gathering of hanfu devotees at a park in Beijing.
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Friday, June 14, 2019
Fashion
International
Rihanna breaks from Fenty Fashion to introduce Chinese brand Quetsche
Bali News
International
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Tourism development of Nusa Penida goes uncontrollable SEMARAPURA — Nusa Penida Island has become a favorite tourist destination in Bali. Its natural and cultural potential is very diverse making tourists name it an attractive iconic object. However, the explosion of tourism in Nusa Penida is considered not yet accompanied with a mature development concept. This makes Nusa Penida look to be developing uncontrollably because it does not focus on its identity.
NEW YORK - Rihanna has been hard at work, work, work promoting her new Fenty fashion brand, but this weekend she proved she’s still got her finger on the pulse regarding under-the-radar designers. For her goddaughter Majesty’s fifth birthday party, the musician-turned-mogul wore Quetsche’s £255 “Hidden Dress” – a white T-shirt with black and lilac deconstructed tulle slip stitched onto it – over jeans. Embellished Amina Muaddi heels and stacked jewellery complementing her lavender jade nails by Jenny Longworth – the beautician behind Harry Styles’s pastel Met Gala nails – finished the playful look befitting the children’s gathering. “Happy 5th birthday to my real-life princess, Her #Majesty,” Rihanna captioned an Instagram post of her holding Majesty some years ago wearing a Gucci cap. “Aunty loves everything about you. My lil oxtail!” The singer journeyed to New York to celebrate with her extended family after holidaying with Hassan Jameel on the Amalfi Coast, where paparazzi photographed her boarding a boat in Nerano wearing Zimmermann. RiRi’s penchant for emerging labels has been bolstered by her stylist and collaborator Jahleel Weaver, who took over the role from Mel Ottenberg when her Fenty empire began expanding. Now a bona fide member of Rihanna’s inner circle dubbed #TheCorp, Weaver is also junior creative director across all Fenty brands. Back to Quetsche, the brainchild of Chinese designer Li Yang, who cut his teeth at Dior, Maison Margiela and Lanvin. He founded his label in September 2014 with a mission to manipulate materials in a way fashion hadn’t seen before. All his layered, distorted pieces are created in his family’s atelier in China, and are currently stocked on Selfridges and Farfetch. Upon seeing the popstar wearing his wares, Yang reposted @badgalriri’s Instagram post with the message “queen knows best” across it. Expect his near 2,000 follower count to start growing as the latest buzzy addition to Rihanna’s wardrobe blows up. After a single outing, Quetsche has become a name to watch. (net)
Friday, June 14, 2019
IBP/kmb31
Nusa Penida Island has become a favorite tourist destination in Bali. Its natural and cultural potential is very diverse making tourists name it an attractive iconic object.
According to a legislator of the Klungkung House of Representatives, AA Gde Sayang Suparta, the reality currently occurred has shown the fact of the assumption such as congestion, the absence of impact of income to the region and local residents as well as the focus on developing the object because everything moves sporadically. “Come on, now we focus on what makes tourists come to Nusa Penida. If the concept is natural and cultural attraction, can tourists come to see Baris Jangkang Dance at any time?” asked this Gerindra politician on Wednesday (Jun. 12). If the nature becomes an attraction, then the development concept according to him must be clear. So far this former tourism player sees strong potential on the cliffs and underwater nature. According to him, it is time for the executive and legislative to jointly encourage the realization of a clear development concept, so the purpose of tourism is also clear and the government also focuses on the direction of developing its tourism identity. Besides, the focus of this development will also have an impact on the next policy measure on many aspects affected by the rapid tourism development like the impact on agriculture as a supporting element. The real example occurred is the fate of seaweed farmers that were slowly running out. How about preparing the cultures of Nusa Penida so that there are always available when tourists come to Nusa Penida to see the culture they want? “All of us want to get the benefits. Visiting tourists feel satisfied, while local residents are affected when tourists stay for a few days. At the same time, the local government also gets income,” he affirmed. Head of the Klungkung Tourism Office, Nengah Sukasta, said that regarding the concept, since the beginning the Klungkung district government had brought cultural tourism supported by its natural potential. He realized what happens today is a truly positive development process for Nusa Penida. Sukasta reiterated that Tourism Office is finalizing plans to implement levies that will take effect on July 1. Regarding this collection plan, the Klungkung district government has also gathered tourism entrepreneurs in Nusa Penida, especially travel guides and entrepreneurs as well as fast boat entrepreneurs. To them, he emphasized that tourists will be charged a levy of IDR 25,000 per person (adult) and IDR 15,000 per person (child) in accordance with the provisions of the stipulated law. This refers to Regional Regulation No. 5/2018 concerning Amendment to Regional Regulation No. 3/2013 concerning Levies on Recreation and Sports Destination. “We are preparing the human resources and facilities like the officer, location of the collection post and complete regulations. We have to be careful. Regarding the levy collection plan, we hope travel agencies and tourist guide inform their guests to bring along rupiah in cash so that the process will accelerate,” he said. (kmb31)
Admission ticket price to Uluwatu Temple outdoors increases next July MANGUPURA — Starting on July 1, the operator of Uluwatu Temple Outdoors will impose a new admission ticket price to the region. The increase in tariffs will be applied, namely, for foreign visitors that used to be IDR 30,000 then increases to IDR 50,000 for adult, while for domestic visitors, increases from IDR 20,000 to IDR 30,000 for adult. Meanwhile, for domestic child is IDR 20,000 per person while foreign child at IDR 30,000 per person. According to Operations Manager of Uluwatu Temple Outdoors, Wayan Wijana, the tariff increase refers to the regulation of Badung
Regent Number 17/2019 concerning Review of Levy Rates for Recreation and Sport Attraction. He said it has been announced, informed and disseminated to travel agencies. “Even though there is an increase in ticket prices, we will continue to improve services for visitors. In addition, from the infrastructure side it will also continue to be developed,” he said on Wednesday (Jun. 12). In the future, aside from revamping infrastructure, it also rents a land owned by residents for the needs of parking space considering that the Uluwatu region always crowded with visitors is
constrained by parking problems. Besides, the toilets will also be added at a number of points. For health services, as operator of the tourist area it will alert ambulance to anticipate visitors’ health. Other than Uluwatu Temple Outdoors, the increase in admission ticket price will also apply to Labuan Sait Beach which remains under the same management. For Labuan Sait tourist objects, the admission ticket will cost IDR 10,000 per domestic adult; IDR 15,000 per person (foreign adult); IDR 5,000 per person (domestic child) and IDR 10,000 per person (foreign child). (kmb23)
IBP/kmb
Starting on July 1, the operator of Uluwatu Temple Outdoors will impose a new admission ticket price to the region.
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Friday, June 14, 2019
Bali News
International
IB Wiryawan stated the number of room occupancy in this week’s holiday is not too high. Moreover, the occupancy until the middle of this June remains normal, but not too high, “The average occupancy reaches 60-70 percent, not up to 80 percent,” he explained.
He admitted the density of tourist visit to Ubud during the Eid holidays turned out to be just enlivening. “Ubud indeed experienced traffic jam at that time, but most guests just made a visit,” he explained. Tourists come just for passing or making a visit for a while, and then return to their accommodation around Kuta. Besides, there are few domestic tourists staying in Ubud. “Domestic is more inclined to stay in the Kuta area (Badung district—Ed),” he explained. According to IB Wiryawan, it is required a breakthrough regarding this condition. Unfortunately, the measures to that purpose have not yet reached a meeting point. “There is no further discussion,” he explained. Of course, the stagnant homestay occupancy, he said, definitely becomes the tasks of various elements, not only tour operators. “This becomes homework for all stakeholders,” he said. (kmb35)
IBP/Manik Astajaya
Friday, June 14, 2019
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Sushil Kumar Solanki, Indian Freestyle Wrestler visited the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, Bali
Domestic tourists throng Ubud, but homestay occupancy still stagnant
GIANYAR - Crowded domestic tourist visits to Ubud area do not have an impact on the management of homestay services in the tourism village. Moreover, the room occupancy of homestay can be said to be fairly stagnant during this week’s holiday. This was revealed by the Chairperson of the Ubud Home Stay Association (UHSA), Ida Bagus Wiryawan, when contacted by telephone on Wednesday (Jun. 12).
Activities
International
IBP/eka Adhyasa
Environment Agency designs underground disposal sites for all
DENPASAR - One of the urban problems is the less optimal waste handling. Responding to this, the Denpasar Environment and Sanitation Agency (DLHK) continues to make innovation in realizing the look of clean and beautiful city. One of the strategic programs in 2019 is designing all temporary waste disposal sites (TPS) spreading across several points, so that everything is built underground as carried out on disposal site on Jalan Pulau Kawe. This was revealed by the Head of DLHK Denpasar, I Ketut Wisada, in front of members of the Commission I and III of Denpasar House of Representatives on Wednesday (Jun. 12). In a working meeting led by Chairperson of Commission III Eko Supriadi accompanied by Chairperson of Commission I Ketut Suteja Kumara, other than DLHK it was also attended by several agencies within the Denpasar city government. According to Wisada, during 2019 his agency has 10 programs with 23 activities. Until May 2019, the realized program reaches 42 percent of the target of 52 percent. It means there is 10 percent deviation due to several obstacles, namely some programs remain in tender process while others are in the process such as the procurement of several cleaning tools that are now in the process of being delivered from Jakarta, so that they
cannot be realized. One of the strategic programs designed by DLHK at the end of 2019 is arranging all the disposal sites in Denpasar. At least, it has 17 disposal sites scattered in several locations. In the future, all the disposal sites will be arranged so that the garbage usually piling up on the surface of land will be no longer visible like that. “Hopefully, all legislators in the House can guard and provide funds to carry out the disposal site arrangement,” said Wisada last Wednesday. According to Wisada, every disposal site requires at least IDR 3.5 billion to IDR 4 billion. On that account, it needs support from the legislators so that the programs can make the environment cleaner and more beautiful. Meanwhile, in 2018, the DLHK also had 10 programs with 23 activities. Of the 10 programs, the budget managed by DLHK reached IDR 79 billion. The amount of such funds could be realized 84.47 percent. The drawback of around 15 percent happened due to several programs that failed to tender. The failed program is the arrangement of the Karang depot. As scheduled, the disposal site was going to be revitalized into underground one. Unfortunately, the businessman broke down, so the program with a budget of IDR 2.5 billion failed to tender. (kmb12)
Founder : K.Nadha, General Manager :Palgunadi Chief Editor: Gugiek Savindra Editors:Agus Toni, Daniel Fajry, Mawa, Sueca, Denpasar: Dira Arsana, Giriana Saputra, Subrata, Sumatika, Asmara Putra. 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
Sushil Kumar SolankivisitedBali, Indonesia and stayed at the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, with his family as part of their vacation. Sushil Kumar Solankiis an Indian freestyle wrestler. Competing in the 66 kg weight division, he won the 2010 world title, a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics and a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, making him the only Indian national to win two individual Olympic medals. His 2008 Olympic medal was second for India in wrestling, and the first since KhashabaDadasahebJadhav’s bronze medal at the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics. In July 2009, he received the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award – India’s highest honour for sportspersons.On
3 October 2010, Kumar handed the Queen’s Baton to Prince Charles in the Queen’s Baton Relay for the 2010 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony. Sushil also won the gold medal in the 74 kg division at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. During his holiday, Mr. Sushil and his family stayed in a Palace Club room. His room offered spectacular garden views and luxurious accommodation in a spacious guest room with marble en-suite bathrooms. Mr. Sushil enjoyed some of the exclusive Palace Club Lounge privileges that included Daily Breakfast, Daily Afternoon Tea and Daily Evening Cocktails with assorted snacks and canapésattended by personal butlers. The Nusa Dua Beach Hotel &
Spa is the pioneer of luxury accommodation within the Nusa Dua area. This 5-star diamond resort, has been welcoming kings, queens, presidents and other dignitaries since its grand opening. Nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, the resort, with its 382 guestrooms and suites, features all the elegance of a Balinese palace, while offering modern amenities. The Nusa Dua Spa is designed to highlight its rich Balinese tradition with a variety of indigenous treatments. Dining at Nusa Dua Hotel & Spa is an epicurean journey with a choice of five restaurants and four bars under the close watch of an award-winning culinary team. For more information, please visit www.nusaduahotel. com.
I N T E R N A T I O N A L
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Friday, June 14, 2019
World’s most costly painting on Saudi prince’s yacht: report WASHINGTON - Since its sale for a record $450 million, the whereabouts of the “Salvator Mundi,” said to be painted by Leonardo da Vinci, has become one of the art world’s greatest mysteries. On Monday, London-based art dealer Kenny Schachter, writing for the website Artnews, offered answers: the painting now resides on the gargantuan yacht owned by powerful Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Since its record-setting sale at Christie’s in 2017, the painting, in which Jesus Christ is depicted emerging from darkness blessing the world with one hand while holding a transparent globe in the other, has never been exhibited in public, triggering doubts about its ownership, whereabouts and authenticity. Many art experts are split over whether the painting is genuine, saying it was not painted by the Italian master personally but instead by his workshop. The Wall Street Journal first reported that the painting was bought
by Saudi prince Badr bin Abdullah, who acted in the name of the Saudi crown prince, known by his initials MBS. Riyadh never confirmed or denied that report. AFP could not corroborate Schachter’s column, and in a nod to the opaque nature of international art sales, he wrote, “In the murky Middle Eastern waters nothing is quite crystal clear.” But citing several sources including two involved in the sale, Schachter claims the painting “was whisked away in the middle of the night on MBS’s plane and relocated to his yacht, the Serene.” After saying the painting was originally found in shards and had to be reconstructed before its auction, he asks, “what harm could the occasional splash of seawater do?” Schachter later wrote that the painting will remain onboard the massive yacht until it is relocated to the Al-Ula governorate, which Saudi Arabia is aiming to transform into a culture and tourism destination. (afp)
Friday, June 14, 2019
In this April 14, 2012 file photo, Thom Yorke (left) and Guitarist Jonny Greenwood.
IBP/net
Radiohead defies hackers, releases trove of stolen music
LONDON - Alternative rock legends Radiohead on Tuesday released an 18-hour trove of private recordings from their 1997 album “OK Computer” after getting hacked by someone seeking a ransom of $150,000 for the music.
Tolga Akmen / AFP
In this file photo taken on October 22, 2017 Christie’s employees pose in front of a painting entitled “Salvator Mundi” by Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci at a photocall at Christie’s auction house in central London ahead of its sale at Christie’s New York on November 15, 2017.
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The genre-banding English musicians uploaded the 1.8-gigabyte collection of recording session outtakes and rare live performances on their radiohead.bandcamp.com website. The songs can be accessed online for free. The group is also selling downloads of an album of the 18 hacked MiniDiscs for £18 ($22.90, 20.20 euros) and donating the proceeds to the Extinction Rebellion environmental campaign group. “We’ve been hacked,” frontman Thom Yorke’s wrote on the
website. “It’s not v interesting,” he added. “As it’s out there it may as well be out there, until we all get bored and move on.” Guitarist Jonny Greenwood later tweeted a statement saying the hack occurred last week. “Someone stole Thom’s minidisk archive from around the time of OK Computer, and reportedly demanded $150,000 on threat of releasing it,” Greenwood wrote. “So instead of complaining -much -- or ignoring it, we’re releasing all 18 hours on Bandcamp in aid
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of Extinction Rebellion,” he wrote. News of the hack first emerged on a Radiohead discussion page of the Reddit website last week. “This is a bit of a doozy,” a user identified only as u/santicol wrote. The user described how someone claiming to have the archive came in contact with a “well known leaker” and offered them previews of the tracks. “They were asking upwards of $150,000 for the entire set, at $800 per studio track and $50 per live track,” the Reddit user wrote. (afp)
IBP/afp
A picture obtained by AFP from Iranian State TV IRIB on June 13, 2019 reportedly shows smoke billowing from a tanker said to have been attacked off the coast of Oman, at un undisclosed location. The crews of two oil tankers were evacuated off the coast of Iran today after they were reportedly attacked and caught fire in the Gulf of Oman, sending world oil prices soaring.
Two tankers catch fire after suspected Gulf of Oman attacks
Suspected attacks left two tankers in flames in the waters of the Gulf of Oman Thursday, sending world oil prices soaring as Iran helped rescue stricken crew members. The mystery incident, the second involving shipping in the strategic sea lane in only a few weeks, came amid spiralling tensions between Tehran and Washington, which has pointed the finger at Iran over earlier tanker attacks in May. The Norwegian Maritime Authority said three explosions were Thursday reported on board the Norwegian-owned tanker Front Altair after it was “attacked” along with the Singapore-owned ship Kokuka Courageous. Iran said its navy had rescued 44
crew members after the two vessels, which were carrying highly inflammable material, caught fire. TV images showed huge, thick plumes of smoke and fire billowing from one of the tankers as it lay out to sea. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif spoke of “reported attacks” as Japan’s prime minister held talks in Tehran. “Suspicious doesn’t begin to describe what likely transpired this morning,” Zarif tweeted. The US Fifth Fleet said its warships had received distress calls from both
vessels in a “reported attack”. Iranian state media said the first incident occurred on board the Front Altair at 8:50 am (0420 GMT) 25 nautical miles off Bandar-e-Jask in southern Iran. The Marshall Islandsflagged tanker, a 111,000-tonne vessel, was carrying a cargo of ethanol from Qatar to Taiwan, official news agency IRNA reported. “As the ship caught fire, 23 of the crew jumped into the water and were saved by a passing ship and handed over to the Iranian rescue unit,” it said. “An hour after the first accident the second ship caught fire at 9:50 am 28 nautical miles off the port.” “I can confirm that the vessel
has NOT sunk,” Robert Hvide Macleo, chief executive for the ship’s owner Frontline, wrote in a text message to AFP. No injuries were reported. The Panama-flagged Kokuka Courageous was headed to Singapore from Saudi Arabia with a cargo of methanol, and 21 of its crew jumped and were rescued, IRNA said.
“The 21 crew of the vessel abandoned ship after the incident on board which resulted in damage to the ship’s hull starboard side,” it said. “One crew man from the Kokuka Courageous was slightly injured in the incident and is receiving first aid.”
- ‘Security incident’ Singapore-based BSM Ship Management said it had “launched a full-scale emergency response following a security incident” involving the Kokuka Courageous which is owned by Japanese company Kokuka Sangyo Ltd.
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