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Monday, March 19, 2018

At 55, ‘French spiderman’ keeps climbing world’s skyscrapers

Adult-film actress Stephanie Clifford, also known as Stormy Daniels.

REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz/File Photo

Trump lawyer seeks $20 million damages from Stormy Daniels -filing

WASHINGTON - A law firm representing U.S. President Donald Trump and the corporation that paid porn actress Stormy Daniels $130,000 in what she called hush money over an alleged affair with Trump said in a court filing that it was seeking at least $20 million in damages for multiple violations of a nondisclosure agreement.

In a filing with the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California made public on Friday, the Blakely Law Group also asked for a lawsuit by Daniels that seeks to nullify the agreement to be moved to a federal district court from a county court.

Brent Blakely, who filed the action on behalf of Essential Consultants LLC and Trump, did not reply to a request for comment.

Under the nondisclosure agreement, Daniels, whose legal name is Stephanie Clifford, could be subjected to

a $1 million penalty each time the deal was broken.

Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Trump that began in 2006 and lasted several months.

Michael Cohen, a private lawyer for Trump, has said he paid Daniels $130,000 of his own money during the 2016 presidential election campaign. Cohen has not explained why he made the payment and has not said if Trump was aware of it.

Attorney Michael Avenatti, who represents Daniels, said on Friday, “This is simply more of the same bullying tactics from the president and Mr. Cohen. They are now attempting to remove this case in order to increase their chances that the matter will ultimately be decided in private arbitration, behind closed doors, outside of public view and scrutiny.

“To put it simply - they want to hide the truth from the American people. We will oppose this effort at every turn.” (rtr)

PARIS - Alain Robert, sometimes known as the “French Spiderman” for climbing skyscrapers world worldwide, is still defying gravity at the age of 55.

He scaled the summit of the fourth-tallest building in Paris’ modern business district on Wednesday after evading security officers who had thwarted an earlier attempt.

A hobby that started at 11 years old has taken Robert to more than 150 skyscrapers around the world, including Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the Eiffel Tower, and the Sydney Opera House.

“For me, climbing is a passion, it’s a way of life,” he said.

It took Robert just over an hour to scale to the top of the 187-metre

(614-feet) high Tour Total, which houses some of the offices of the French energy group of the same name.

He has accomplished the feat twice in the past.

Using only climbing shoes and chalk, he clung to the window ledges to lift himself up past the tower’s 48 floors, cheered on by office workers-turned-spectators in La Defense.

Robert had first tried to climb the Engie building on Wednesday morning, but security guards quickly came to remove him.

He often climbs without permission and has been arrested several times. In 2008, he scaled the New York Times building to unfurl a banner on global warming, and was arrested by police. (rtr)

REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File photo

President of South Africa Jacob Zuma gestures to his supporters at the 54th National Conference of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa December 16, 2017.

South Africa hits fallen Zuma with arms deal corruption charges

PRETORIA - Former South African president Jacob Zuma is to face corruption charges over a $2.5 billion arms deal, prosecutors said, as a years-old scandal returned to haunt him within weeks of his fall from power. It was a stunning judicial development on a continent where political “Big Men” rarely have to face their accusers in court.

Alain Robert

IBP/net

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Zuma, who was forced to resign by his ruling African National Congress (ANC) last month, was at the centre of a 1990s deal to buy European military kit that has cast a shadow over politics in South Africa for years. Chief state prosecutor Shaun Abrahams told a media conference on Friday that Zuma’s attempts to head off the charges hanging over him for more than a decade had failed.

The 75-year-old denied all the allegations against him, Abrahams added. “After consideration of the matter, I am of the view that there are reasonable prospects of successful prosecution of Mr Zuma on the charges listed in the indictment,”

Abrahams said. “I am of the view that a trial court would be the most appropriate forum for these issues to be ventilated and to be decided upon.” Zuma will face 16 charges relating to 783 instances of alleged wrongdoing, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesman Luvuyo Mfaku said. Twelve are of fraud, one of racketeering, two of corruption and one of money laundering. There was no immediate comment from Zuma and it was not immediately clear when the former leader might go to trial.

Zuma was deputy president at the time of the arms deal. Schabir Shaikh, his former financial adviser, was found guilty and jailed

in 2005 for trying to solicit bribes for Zuma from a French arms company. The 16 counts were filed against Zuma but then dropped by the NPA shortly before he successfully ran for president in 2009.

Since his election nine years ago, his opponents have fought a lengthy legal battle to have the charges reinstated. Zuma countered with his own legal challenges.The ANC said it had confidence in the country’s criminal justice system and the independence of the judiciary.

“We continue to assert the inalienable right of all in our country, including Comrade Jacob Zuma, to be presumed innocent until and if proven guilty,” the party said in a statement.

“A VICTORY,” SAYS OPPOSITION

Mmusi Maimane, the official opposition leader and head of the Democratic Alliance party, said:

“This is a victory for all who have fought for years for Jacob Zuma to face accountability for his crimes.

That accountability starts now.”

Pierre de Vos, a law professor at the University of Cape Town, said Zuma could seek a court order to block the case against him by asking for “a permanent stay of prosecution so that the court decides whether he is capable of getting a fair trial. That could be done of course, that is a possibility”.

In 2016, Zuma said a fouryear investigation he set up while president had found no evidence of widespread bribery, corruption or fraud in the selection of bidders to supply the arms. Nor had it found evidence that officials were bribed in an attempt to influence the deal.

The former South African leader was beset by scandal during his tenure as president.

He survived several motions of no-confidence in parliament

and the Constitutional Court said he breached the law by ignoring an order to repay some of the $16 million in state funds spent on renovating his home. Zuma has since repaid some of the money, as ordered by the court.

The former president has also been implicated by South Africa’s anti-corruption watchdog in a 2016 report that alleges the Gupta family, billionaire friends of Zuma, used links with him to win state contracts. An inquiry on the influencepeddling allegations is due to start soon. The Guptas and Zuma have denied any wrongdoing. (rtr) 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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Monday, March 19, 2018

Bali News

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Monday, March 19, 2018

15

Ngembak Gni and Banyupinaruh

Mass Pawintenan Dasa Bayu held at Watu Klotok Temple

SEMARAPURA —

REUTERS/David Gray

Laos’ Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith, Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo, Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen, Brunei’s Prime Minister and Sultan Hassanal Bokliah, Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, Australia’s Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Vietnam’s Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Philippines’ Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alan Peter Cayetano, Myanmar’s State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and Malaysia’s Prime Minister Najib Razak wave as they stand together during the Leaders Welcome and Family Photo at the one-off summit of 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Sydney, Australia, March 17, 2018.

Australia holds first ASEAN Summit Meeting in Sydney SYDNEY —

Australia held the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit at the International Convention Center, Sydney, Australia on March 16-18, 2018. This multilateral meeting brought together the leaders of the10 ASEAN member countries for the first time outside the ASEAN region.

“This meeting demonstrates Australia’s strong commitment to ASEAN and its good relations with Southeast Asian countries,” said Australian Ambassador to ASEAN, Jane Duke, on Thursday (Mar. 15) in Darling Harbor area, Australia.

Leaders of the ASEAN countries were scheduled to attend the Special Summit Meeting namely, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. Meanwhile, the Philippine President, Rodrigo Duterte, was ascertained not to attend.

Australia which has become first external partner of the ASEAN group of countries since 40 years ago wanted to make this meeting a moment to strengthen relations considering that Australia is geographically close to the ASEAN region. Geographically,

Australia feels the need to work together in facing similar challenges and threats with ASEAN countries.

The event was scheduled to be opened on Friday (Mar. 16) by Australian Prime Minister, Malcom Turnbull. The ASEAN Summit will mark a new era in economic cooperation, political dialogue and public relations between Australia and ASEAN countries to build a fastgrowing contemporary and insightful partnership.

ASEAN as one of the Australia’s largest trading partners is expected to achieve mutual commitments

and agreements on two main topics, namely business-economy and counter-terrorism.

According to Duke, Australia and the ASEAN region face the threats that cannot be denied by one country. Protecting citizens from incoming hazards of criminals and terrorists should be done by sharing intelligence, expertise and knowledge. “This will be a valuable forum for private sector and governments to work together in addressing key challenges and fostering the prosperity of each country,” she explained.(kmb)

Ngembak Gni and Banyupinaruh Day on Sunday (Mar. 18) in a series of Nyepi and Sarawasti Day are filled with Pawintenan Dasa Bayu at Watu Klotok Temple, Tojan village, Klungkung district. The ceremony held by Griya Jero Taman Harum, Payangan, Gianyar, can be followed by all Hindus as well as pleading for the safety and welfare of life.

Chairman of the Committee, Ida Mangku I Dewa Gede Ambara Putra Manacita, revealed on Thursday (Mar. 15) that Nyepi and Saraswati Day this year falling coincidently is a rare phenomenon every 153 years. Nyepi has timing based on lunar calendar while Saraswati based on pawukon.

This encounter symbolizes Purusha and Pradhana. “Nyepi day is meditation time of Ida Sang Hyang Brahma Prajapati, while Saraswati Day of Goddess

Saraswati. Therefore, the Hindus need to interpret this and we organize pawintenan dasa bayu en masse,” he explained.

In this ceremony, 33 higher priests will perform puja amerta starting at 06:00 local time. This is opened to general public.

The attendance is enough to bring along canang or daksina pejati oblation. Donation can be made pursuant to sincerity. “We hope the Hindus can promote together the sradha and bhakti (faith and devotion) as well as plead for salvation,” he said.

He further submitted that other than relating to self-purification, this first ceremony is also implemented as a way to ease the burden of people. If carrying out individually, the cost is quite large. “This ceremony is the highest level. By this way, many followers can participate. Hopefully, this kind of ritual can be implemented elsewhere to provide sacred vibration,” he said. (kmb45)

Bali becomes the center for international arbitration and mediation

DENPASAR —

Bali is not only known as the Island of the Gods or international tourist destination.

However, it has also become a center for international arbitration and mediation following the establishment of the Bali International Mediation and Arbitration Center (BIMAC) born from the idea of a number of international arbitrators.

“The selection of Bali as a venue to resolve the problem of arbitration and mediation is an agreement from the founders coming from various countries,” said BIMAC’s President, Naz Juman Gulinazaer, when meeting the governor of Bali on Thursday (Mar. 15).

Naz Juman Gulinazaer expected the government especially in Bali to support the existence of the organization.

BIMAC is said to have the tagline ‘Find Resolution and Paradise.’ “There are many international arbitrators getting interested to join us but we have to do the selection to get the

best,” he added.

One of the BIMAC founders, Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Rahmadi Supancana, said the birth of the BIMAC is the idea of several international arbitrators based in Germany, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Indonesia. According to him, BIMAC will focus on resolving international law disputes.

Governor of Bali, Made Mangku Pastika, said that Bali had gained a lot of trust to host international conferences and be the home to international organizations. When considered as the right place to resolve the problem and reach an agreement, it is a form of international trust to Bali.

“Based on the experience, vibration, comfort and security, the Island of Bali is perfect for resolving problems and making decisions,” he said while hoping the center for arbitration and international mediation will make the image of Bali in the international eye increasingly better. (kmb32)

 Founder : K.Nadha,  General Manager :Palgunadi Chief Editor: Gugiek Savindra  Editors:Agus Toni, Daniel Fajry, Mawa, Sueca, Sugiartha, Yudi Winanto Denpasar: Dira Arsana, Giriana Saputra, Subrata, Sumatika, Asmara Putra. Bangli: Suasrina, Buleleng: Dewa kusuma, Gianyar: Manik Astajaya, Karangasem: Budana, Klungkung: Dewa Farendra. 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

Dim Sum Galore on Sundays at Happy Chappy Any plans after Nyepi Day? If you’re craving for Chinese food, then head over to Happy Chappy Chinese for a sumptuous Sunday Brunch with your loved ones. Be prepared to devour delectable Cantonese-style Chinese Food such as Salted Prawns in Egg Yolk and Kung Pao Chicken with Cashew Nuts. Every Sunday, enjoy delicious and extensive Dim Sum menu including Prawn Har Gow, Xiaolongbao and Fried Wontons, available from 11am - 3pm.

Accompany your meal with fresh and delicious Bloody Marys and your day is complete!

Happy Chappy is a convivial family-style Chinese restaurant inspired

by a blend of traditional Chinese culture with a hip, modern influence.

Make no mistake: Happy Chappy’s whimsical take on upscale Chinese dining is tempered by one of the finest, state-of-the-art kitchens serving the most delicious traditional Cantonesestyle Chinese food in Bali. Guests are delighted by Happy Chappy’s inviting and contemporary environment with moderately priced, yet thoughtfully plated dishes.

Our Chefs, have worked tirelessly recreate favorite Cantonesestyle dishes that westerners know and love. The food is simple and uncomplicated, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients – each of

which evokes a nostalgia for childhood Chinese food delights. Family style servings make sharing part of the Happy Chappy experience – from the classic Honey Prawns to a spectacular Peking Duck. Drive-up take-away is also available so that guests may enjoy a delicious meal at their hotel or villa.

With a total seating capacity for 160 diners, Happy Chappy features a large and inviting dining area perfect for groups, families or couples.

The old-shanghai inspired décor is contrasted by pops of modernity and elegance. Areas of the dining room can be configured to create additional privacy for large parties

celebrating life’s special events.

The Fortune Pond, overseen by a life-sized statue of Happy Chappy, invites guests to drop in a coin and make a joyful wish to accompany their incredible meal.

The Dragon’s Den bar is a chic lounge dripping in deep reds, evoking a feeling of mysterious decadence. This Chinese undergroundinspired bar features one of Bali’s largest live fish tanks to add an element of mystique to this mischievous side of Happy Chappy. Guests can indulge in an intimate conversation while sipping on a hand-crafted cocktail. The large outdoor patio area is perfect for enjoying Bali’s

gorgeous evenings under the stars.

Its warm and upscale ambiance is the perfect place to enjoy a signature dim sum platter with group of friends.

Unique weekly specials and promotions keep guests returning multiple times during their visit to Bali and the quality and consistency of the food ensure that Happy Chappy is a must on any future trip.

At Happy Chappy, we don’t just offer Chinese food. We provide memorable moments of Happiness.

Happy Chappy Express Berawa | Jl. Pantai Berawa No. 888, Bali | Ph: +62 361 934 5811 | www.happychappychinese.com.

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Monday, March 19, 2018

Soybean coffee of Kubu resident goes viral

Help overcome diabetes, searched by customers from Kalimantan

INSPIRED by difficult situation due to diabetes, there was an idea of dispensing a medicine in the form of soybean coffee. Unexpectedly, the results are beyond expectations. The soybean coffee is able to cure diabetes in an instant. Nowadays, soybean coffee blend made by the resident of Tianyar Tengah village, Kubu Sub-district, becomes viral after being uploaded in social media. Many customers from outside the region such as Lombok, Java and Kalimantan also get interested. What’s about the story?

24 hours in Valencia, Spain WITH around 300 days of glorious sunshine, a spectacular blend of traditional and avantgarde architecture, plus fabulous local cuisine, Valencia is fast becoming the capital of the weekend break.

Despite being Spain’s third largest city, Valencia has traditionally lagged behind Madrid and Barcelona for visitor appeal.

Not anymore. With around 300 days of glorious sunshine, a spectacular blend of traditional and avant-garde architecture, plus fabulous local cuisine and a vast number of direct flights from the UK, Valencia is fast becoming

the capital of the weekend break.

Must explore

One of the advantages of a trip to Valencia is being able to experience both city and beach. A wander around the streets of the old town, taking in the Gothic churches, grand palaces and shady squares such as Plaza de Virgen is a good place to start.

Don’t miss the Cathedral, which is home to the Holy Grail (allegedly) and the nearby silk exchange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A quick stroll from the main tourist drag, Ruzafa is Valencia’s hippest barrio (district). It is full

of art galleries, café bookshops and designer restaurants and it reveals a different side of the city; especially at night. Also great for night-time drinks and dinner is the neighbourhood of El Carmen. Jazz club, Jimmy Glass (Calle Baja, 28), is a city institution and Radio City (Calle Santa Teresa, 19) has an eclectic offering of films, gigs and exhibitions.

The beach isn’t just for sunworshippers. Las Arenas, La Malvarrosa and Patacona beaches are easily accessible from the city centre and a wander along the sands is the perfect pre-lunch appetiser. The restaurants that line the front are

some of the best places to sample paella or the local seafood. Do check they are open out of season and always book for a weekend lunchtime.

Must visit

2018 marks the 20th anniversary of The City of Arts and Sciences – a visually dramatic multi-complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava, comprising an aquarium, digital 3D cinema, science museum, opera house and sculpture garden.

It covers two kilometres at one end of the Turia Gardens – created on what was the riverbed of the Turia – so once you’ve finished

visiting take a walk through the gardens (mind the joggers!) back to the centre of the city.

Not for those with vertigo, arguably the best view of the city is from the lofty perspective of Mirador Ataneo, 50 metres above ground level. On the sixth floor of the same building, the Sky Bar and Restaurant is the ideal spot for a cocktail with your view.

Art lovers should head to IVAM, Valencia’s Museum of Modern Art. The gallery has a strong permanent collection, as well as some high profile temporary exhibitions, such as the Miro retrospective in 2018. (net)

The soybean coffee is made by I Gede Budi Widana, 47, a resident of Penginyahan hamlet who has been suffering from diabetes for many years. His condition is already very bad. Due to irregular life as a tourist transportation driver, his weight had reached 108 kg. He finally fell ill with very poor condition. All his teeth almost fell out with gums continuing to swell.

His eyesight also began to be myopic. Since he no longer holds it, he finally checked up to a doctor. “My doctor was surprised because at that time my blood sugar has reached 600. I was convicted of diabetes,” said Widana when met on Wednesday (Mar. 14).

He was given medicine by the doctor, but it was drunk for three days but did not give any changes.

Widana then admitted to resign.

Due to his sickness, he could not work and finally went home. One day while sleeping, he received a whisper that medicine for his illness is soybean coffee. Immediately he prepared it by himself, and drank it regularly. After two months

of regularly drinking soybean coffee, he gradually healed. Now, his life is back to normal.

After experiencing the efficacy of his coffee blend, he ventured to produce it manually at his home.

Then, he uploaded on social media.

Apparently the responses were beyond expectation. After tasting its own properties, the soybean coffee product was hunted by diabetics in Bali. The number of customer testimony about the usefulness made more and more people curious. In the past few weeks, the product was even sought after by customers from Lombok, Java to Kalimantan.

Widana said that in two days he processed about 50 kg of soybeans to be made into powder of soybean coffee. The soybeans selected for the making processes are kept secret to avoid product counterfeiting. Of the total 50 kg of soybeans, he gets 40 packs of processed soybean powder with a weight of 500 grams each. Many customers make him overwhelmed in meeting customer demand because the raw material in use is a special soybean

and it is not easily obtained. At his own village, there are indeed farmers cultivating it but the results are not enough. He has to find raw materials to Gianyar. “Now, I want to focus on developing this soybean coffee while opening job opportunities at his village,” he said.

The viral information on the soybean coffee product seems to be heard by the Karangasem Industry and Trade Agency. Head of the Agency, I Gusti Ngurah Suarta, with his staff even came down directly to the location of soybean coffee manufacturing.

He is deeply impressed by the finding of Widana. Ngurah Suarta encouraged him to continuously develop his invention and business. However, before the product gets more customers, he suggested submitting product permit first, including patent right of the product. “It’s also better to be examined by National Agency for Drug and Food Control (BPOM) to ensure the feasibility of consumption,” said Gusti Ngurah Suarta.

A legislator from the local village, I Nyoman Musna Antara, when accompanying the Karangasem Industry and Trade Agency Head at the location was also very enthusiastic with the results of the nutritious preparation. Such Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) must be supported and developed. He asked Karangasem Industry and Trade Agency could help facilitate the efforts of its residents, especially

those related to business license, patent right and BPOM feasibility test. It also includes the marketing process so that it can be widely known as the original and native product to Karangasem.

“This product of the native resident to Penginyahan is really amazing. Hopefully, in the future it can continuously grow and affect other communities in our region,” said this young politician of Golkar Party. (gik)

GIANYAR — The ogoh-ogoh (papier mache demon) parade in Gianyar district is ready to be held on Friday (Mar. 16). There is something unique in the ogoh-ogoh parade at Tengah hamlet, Blahbatuh village where the ogoh-ogoh will be carried

by dozens of Family Empowerment and Welfare (PKK) housewives. After parading the ogoh-ogoh at local hamlet, it will be resumed with joint ballet entitled Kala Ludra Somia.

Tengah hamlet chief, Ketut Ambara, explained on Wednesday (Mar.

14) that since several years ago the ogoh-ogoh at Tengah hamlet, Blahbatuh, is regularly paraded by women. “Last year, the ogoh-ogoh was paraded by female youngsters, while the male still keep accompanying with gamelan music,” he said.

Meanwhile, for this year the ogoh-ogoh will be paraded by PKK housewives. In total, there are 32 PKK housewives prepared to bear the ogoh-ogoh during the parade at the intersection of Blahbatuh village.

The weight of ogoh-ogoh is already arranged in such a way, so that it can certainly be carried by PKK housewives at local hamlet. “We have calculated the weight, so that it is made a set of carrying pole that fits for 32 bearers,” he explained.

When asked about the reason to mobilize women, he described it is for the sake of emancipation and minimizing the friction that can trigger public order and security disruption when parading ogoh-ogoh. “If paraded by women, they surely can

control it. Besides, women will also be cool, so every time seeing the ogoh-ogoh paraded people would be happy,” he said.

Ketut Umbara added that after parading ogoh-ogoh at the intersection of Blahbatuh village, it will be directly followed by a dance performance at T-junction of Tengah hamlet at local village. “Of totally 12 hamlets at Blahbatuh village, we get serial number 2. After the parade at the intersection, we will go directly eastward for the ballet in the central intersection,” he said.

He revealed that Kala Ludra Somia ballet will involve more than a hundred PKK housewives. The ballet is held on Friday night around 20:00. “In short, this ballet tells about the story of Goddess Uma after transforming into Durga followed by the change of Lord Shiva into Kala Rudra. Well, the romance of this couple is triggering a disaster in the world, so the gods ask Kala Rudra to return to the manifestation as Lord Shiva,” he said.

Nowadays, the making of ogohogoh at Tengah hamlet led by the Chief of sekaa taruna Bhina Karya (customary village youth club), I Nyoman Kurniawan Saputra, has completed, following the workmanship for approximately 1.5 months.

“The ogoh-ogoh is made by way of braiding, and it is ascertained to be eco-friendly because it does not use Styrofoam,” he explained.

Ketut Umbara with a number of community leaders of Tengah hamlet also intended to invite the Chairman of the House of Representatives to witness the ogoh-ogoh parade and the ballet at Tengah hamlet.

Unfortunately, their arrival to the parliament office on Wednesday was in vain because the people’s representatives based at Jalan Ngurah Rai, Gianyar, were in official visit out of the region. “Were were going to invite and ask for blessing to attend the ballet, but they (legislators of Gianyar—Ed) were not in the office,” he said. (kmb35)

IBP/gik

Soybean coffee blend made by the resident of Tianyar Tengah village, Kubu Sub-district, becomes viral after being uploaded in social media.

Ogoh-ogoh of Tengah hamlet paraded by PKK housewives

IBP/kmb35

The ogoh-ogoh (papier mache demon) parade in Gianyar district.

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Bali News

Monday, March 19, 2018

International

Ketut Purnawan often trusted to make beauty contest crown

BANGLI — Ketut Purnawan is one of the silversmiths in Bangli whose works have been recognized and known by many people. His handicraft products are often used in various arenas of beauty contests.

In 2011, for example, crown of his work was once contested in the selection of the Putri Pariwisata Indonesia (Miss Tourism of Indonesia).

When met at his home at Pande hamlet, Cempaga, on Thursday (Mar. 15), Purnawan said he has started to pursue silverwork business since 2004. At that time, the products he made were in the form of brooches and other silver jewelry in accordance with the market demand. His silverworks were not only sold in the local market but also in the markets outside the region and even overseas. To produce handicrafts, this owner of Prize Perak Bali at that time employed 54 workers.

However, since the emergence of alpaca jewelry, the market demand for homemade handicraft products continues to decline. Finally, Purnawan also must switch. He chose to make Balinese bridal jewelry targeting the market of bridal salons in Bali. “So far, my products do not only sell well in the local market but also attracted many people from transmigration areas such as Lampung, Sulawesi and Lombok,” he said. To promote his jewelry products, in addition to actively participating in exhibition, Purnawan also utilizes social media currently becoming a trend.

From his promotional results, around 2011 he got a trust

to make the crown of Putri Pariwisata Indonesia. The crown decorated with a variety of gemstones was made long enough up to two months. Besides, in the event of Jegeg-Bagus beauty pageant at the provincial and district level, he was also often believed to make the crown. “My last work was the making of crown for Miss Tabo (a beauty contest in the Sumatra region) around February,” he explained.

Purnawan admitted to be quite proud of the trust given to

him for the making of the crown. He also hoped to have the honor for the making of crown for other prestigious events at national and even international level.

Meanwhile, when asked about his efforts to maintain his work so as to still exist in the market, especially following the coming of Alpaca, Purnawan said he must always make innovation. According to him, if crafters do not continuously innovate they will quickly lose out in the business competition. (kmb40)

IBP/kmb40

Ketut Purnawan is one of the silversmiths in Bangli whose works have been recognized and known by many people.

About North Bali Airport

NGO hopes investors to be serious, not take people to ‘dream’ SINGARAJA — The discourse on the construction of the North Bali International Airport remains uncertain. It had faded but lately there was an interesting conversation in the community. The airport discourse is ‘at issue’ again amid the stages of gubernatorial election 2018 political event after there was an issue on the cancellation plan of central government to build the North Bali International Airport.

Since the government recommended conducting feasibility study of the North Bali Airport, there are two investors conducting the feasibility study. Both investors are PT Bandara Internasional Bali Utara (BIBU) Panji Sakti and PT Pembangunan Bali Mandiri (Pembari). BIBU itself has done feasibility study and touted to have proposed location determination permit to central government. From that study, BIBU designed the airport to be in the middle of the sea, while Pembari is touted more inclined to build airport on mainland. Amid the competition to seize the location certainty from central government, suddenly there are rumors if the airport project is canceled under the pretext that central government is more concerned with the development of toll

I Wayan Purnamek

IBP/kmb38

roads, shortcuts and Java-Bali ro-ro ship harbor.

Following the issue of cancellation, the officials and community leaders responded. Non-governmental organization (NGO) finally spoke out. In essence, the NGO activists in Buleleng reminded the government or companies to seriously review the airport project plan. If there is company having sufficient capital capability supported by complete studies, the location determination permit should be issued, not to make the situation similar to jokes associated with political interests.

Regional Coordinator of Jari Bali Simpul Buleleng, I Wayan Purnamek, recently stated that legally the airport development has been regulated in the national program and Bali Regional Regulation on Spatial Layout Planning (RTRW). Based on the regulation, the international airport will be built in Kubutambahan subdistrict. Based on this regulation, policy makers must be consistent to comply with the mandate of the regulation. However, if indeed the execution is not possible in the near future, he argued the government can delay the plan. In this delay, he encouraged the preparation of infrastructure development such as toll roads or shortcuts. With on this effort, the investors may be more prepared and serious to build the airport because the supporting infrastructure has been built earlier.

“I think the regulatory mandate is clear both in the central and provincial level including the district level that has agreed to develop the airport in Kubutambahan. This should be secured and policy makers must be consistent. Otherwise, it can be delayed first and poised with the preparation of infrastructure such as roads and shortcut,” he said.

On the other hand, Purnamek added the efforts of the two companies touted to get the location determination permit are natural. The permit can be given as long as the results of feasibility study are feasible. Similarly, the financial support of the company is necessary. To that end, the seriousness chiefly capital support is especially important to anyone who will invest in the airport development. He is worried if the company only grabbed the location determination permit and

Monday, March 19, 2018

International

after getting it the company does not start to build but ‘sell’ the permit to make a profit. If this happens, there is possibility that people are continuously taken to ‘dream’ that an airport will be built in their region.

“In our opinion, if the study is feasible and the company has capital, and these have been clear, I think the location determination should not fall into uncertainty, but must be started. What we do not want is now fighting over to get the location determination and then sold the permit to and fro.

So, people are taken to have a dream and made into political jokes, let alone ahead of gubernatorial election, legislative election as well as presidential election,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the Regent of Buleleng, Putu Agus Suradnyana (PAS), said the airport development plan in the region is not good to be done in terms of the discourse of government policy accompanied with political approach. On the contrary, he considered the airport development must be based on studies of technical data, calculations related to airport reliability and projected utilization. “If based on projection of tourism growth, the level of tourist visit to Bali is extraordinary. The government even sets a target of 20 million and this needs a new airport. If the Ngurah Rai Airport is not sufficient, it means that when I strive for something not based on policy and political perspective, but on the needs and projection of foreign and domestic tourists visit growth, so that it needs new airport in North Bali,” he said.

In addition, this regent having business background said the companies that will build the airport do not need to claim each other to get location determination permission from central government. Necessarily, the readiness of the company in terms of management, capital and capacity of the airport to be built must be well prepared. On that account, if the issue of cancellation is true, the regent assessed there is a new opportunity in the future after the political event that gives birth to a new leader. On that occasion, he will be fighting so the airport that has been long awaited by people of Buleleng can be realized. (kmb38)

13

China propaganda kicks into overdrive as “helmsman” Xi re-anointed president

BEIJING - With pictures of ecstatic citizens standing in applause, happily tearful legislators and even a social media game, China’s propaganda drive has kicked into high gear following Xi Jinping’s unanimous reappointment as president.

Xi’s face dominated the front pages of major Sunday newspapers, many carrying the same editorial from the ruling Communist Party’s official People’s Daily using language once more associated with Mao Zedong to say he was a “leader loved and respected by the people” and “helmsman of the country”.

“The voyage of a great country cannot do without a helmsman,” the paper wrote.

The military’s official People’s Liberation Army Daily pledged its loyalty to Xi in its editorial, saying his election would ensure the country’s long-term peace and stability.

Xi is also head of the armed forces, the world’s largest.

There was never any doubt that the largely rubber-stamp parliament would not have re-elected Xi as president on Saturday, especially following a constitutional amendment a week earlier which lifts presidential term limits, meaning Xi can stay on indefinitely.

While the amendment was passed with just six dissenters two no votes, three abstentions and one invalidated ballot - none of the roughly 3,000 legislators voted against Xi, a point made repeatedly in state media coverage.

State television showed images

from the floor in the Great Hall of the People of some legislators in tears after Xi swore an oath to the constitution following his re-election, a vote it described as a “solemn and sacred historic moment”.

In a moment of high political theatre, a copy of the constitution was carried onto the main stage by three members of the armed forces.

Other pictures on state media showed ordinary people standing in applause in front of television screens around the country at Xi’s re-appointment.

The government has presented this month’s parliament session and its controversial removal of presidential term limits as widely welcomed despite criticism that has evaded the censors and seeped onto Chinese social media at times.

Social media accounts of state media have leapt into action to offer their support, even as the comments sections have either been disabled or only show supportive remarks from users.

Late on Saturday, the People’s Daily WeChat account went live with a game where players have 20 seconds to press the screen as many times as they can to register a “like” for all the government’s achievements of the past five years, Xi’s first term in office.

The top-rated comment on Sunday morning was one user proudly saying he had pressed “like” 181 times. (rtr)

REUTERS/Mukesh Gupta

People shift a woman, who according to local media was injured in what they say was a ceasefire violation by the Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LOC) in Poonch district, towards a government hospital in Jammu, March 18, 2018.

Five Indians killed in cross-border shelling by Pakistani troops

SRINAGAR - Five members of an Indian family were killed and two injured by shelling from Pakistani troops on Sunday along the Line of Control, the de facto border between India and Pakistan, according to army and police officials.

REUTERS/Jason Lee TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (R) shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping, after he is voted as the premier for another term, at the sixth plenary session of the National People’s Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China March 18, 2018.

Both sides were engaging in heavy shelling despite a 15-year-old ceasefire between the nuclear-armed rivals in the area, the officials said.

Nine people were also wounded across the border in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir due to the shelling from India that began late Saturday night, Pakistani officials said on Sunday.

Tension has been running high since an attack on an Indian army camp in India-controlled Kashmir last month in which six soldiers were killed. India blamed Pakistan for the attack and said it would make its rival pay for the “misadventure”.

The South Asian neighbours have fought two of

their three wars since independence in 1947 over Muslim-majority Kashmir, which they both claim in full but rule in part.

Indian Defence spokesman Lt Col Devender Anand said on Sunday that Pakistani troops started the shelling around 7:45 in the morning.

“They are specifically targeting civilian areas,” Anand said. “Army troops retaliated strongly and effectively to silence Pakistani guns.”

Director General of Indian Police in Kashmir, S P Vaid said the five people were killed in the village of Devta Dhar when a shell hit the house of Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan.

Ramzan, 45, his wife Malka Bi, 45, and three sons - Muhammad Rehman, 19, Muhammad Rizwan, 18, and Muhammad Razaq, 8 all died, Vaid said.

Two of Ramzan’s daughters - Nooren Akhtar, 14, and Marin Akhtar, 7, were critically injured in the incident and were airlifted to a hospital in Jammu, Vaid said. (rtr)

12

International

Monday, March 19, 2018

BUSINESS Portugal’s flourishing tourism becomes economic mainstay

LISBON - Portugal’s tourism boom has made the industry one of the biggest contributors to the national economy and the largest employer, with almost 1 million direct and indirect jobs, the head of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) said. Portugal has long been popular for its beaches, historic sites and golf courses, but tourism has broken records in the past few years after government and businesses looked to the sector as an engine of growth after the 2011-14 debt crisis.

flights by low-cost carriers.

“It’s (Portugal) competitive. Do I see it as a cheap destination? No I don’t, but I think price is good, they need to maintain the quality,” said Guevara, who is from Mexico.

She added that “if they (Portugal) continue doing what they are doing, another 100,000 jobs will be created,” expanding what has become the country’s largest economic sector.

Unemployment in Portugal is around 8 percent but the

figure is much higher for younger people. The jobs total should reach 1.15 million by 2028, according to new WTTC estimates provided by Guevara.

The data showed that the total contribution of travel and tourism to Portugal’s GDP reached 17.3 percent, or 33.5 billion euros ($41.1 billion), last year. It is forecast to reach 20.5 percent of GDP in 2018. Other main sectors of the economy include construction, textiles and car production. (rtr)

Gloria Guevara, the president of the WTTC, told Reuters Portugal was already in the top five most-visited countries in Europe, and now “they should make sure that they continue as one of the top five”.

Portugal has been spared the bloody attacks seen in neighbouring European countries and benefited as violence and political unrest deter visitors from parts of the eastern Mediterranean and north Africa. With Portugal starting to muscle into the ranks of Europe’s most popular destinations, Guevara urged the country to adopt measures to avoid problems of so-called overtourism seen in cities including Barcelona.

That includes investment on infrastructure such as potentially a new Lisbon airport. Portugal’s tourism sector was set to grow further, thanks to a “very rich culture, amazing gastronomy,” and its geographic position with a long coastline and sunny climate.

PRICE AND QUALITY BALANCE

Portugal won the top destination spot in the 2017 World Travel Awards after the number of foreign tourists jumped 12 percent to 12.7 million. Including domestic tourists, the total is about 21 million. Guevara said Portugal’s focus on tourism had ensured that travellers and holiday companies had turned to the country, with many new hotels and frequent

Bali News

International

Wall Street nevertheless posted losses for the week, as shares struggled to weather a growing sense of turmoil in U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration and signs that protectionist policies could spur a trade war. Those fears took a back seat on Friday to economic data showing U.S. factory output jumped 1.1 percent in February.

“Today, there are not a lot of headlines out of Washington, so the focus is more on the economy,” said Keith Lerner, chief market strategist at SunTrust Advisory Services in Atlanta. Energy led the S&P with a 0.9 percent gain amid the spike in oil prices.

Retailer Walmart Inc added 1.9 percent, and Home Depot Inc half a percent, after the University of Michigan’s preliminary reading of consumer sentiment index rose more than expected to 102.0. Both of those gains were down, however, from higher climbs earlier in the day.

European shares lost ground for the week, despite a modest gain on Friday, driven by exchange operator NEX Group Plc’s 30-percent jump after a takeover offer from U.S.-based peer CME Group Inc. The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index rose 0.29 percent and MSCI’s gauge of stocks across the globe was about

flat. U.S. Treasury yields rose on the industrial data, and in anticipation of next week’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting, at which the U.S. central bank is expected to raise interest rates for the first time this year.

Benchmark 10-year notes last fell 6/32 in price to yield 2.8445 percent, from 2.824 percent late on Thursday. The 30-year bond last fell 10/32 in price to yield 3.077 percent, from 3.061 percent Thursday. The economic data, which bolstered the consensus expectation of a rate hike, also pushed the dollar up slightly against a basket of six currencies, with the dollar index rising 0.08 percent. The euro fell 0.15 percent to $1.2286.

But fears of political tensions did not disappear entirely, boosting the safe-haven Japanese yen, which strengthened 0.29 percent versus the greenback at 106.05 per dollar. The dollar had earlier fallen as low as 105.61 against the yen, the lowest since March 7. Sterling was last trading at $1.3944, up 0.06 percent on the day.1.3944rising 0.08 percent Euro zone bond yields kept falling after another European Central Bank policymaker warned that inflation in the bloc remained sluggish, a potential hurdle to the withdrawal of monetary stimulus. (rtr)

5

Tugun Karang, a Psychical Gateway to House Compound

According to Balinese people, especially the Hindus, every sacred building or shrine placed in the yard of a house or family temple must be respectively functioned according to its location and name. In addition, the sacred buildings are not only functioned, but also believed to be the abode of deities, ancestral spirits and other psychical beings. Moreover, the Tugun Karang shrine or often called as Pengijeng Karang is very often associated with the psychical and haunted thing.

Tugun Karang comes from the word tuhu meaning ‘to know’ or ‘have knowledge.’ Karang means ‘yard’ or house yard or human body.

Who can understand and know about one’s body well, and then he or she is the one who reaches the balance of physical and psychical realm. In the Hindu mysticism and philosophy, Tugun Karang is the ultimate mantra. Tugun is Tang, Ang and Ung; summarized into Karang, namely Ang and Ah. Ang and Ah are double syllables symbolizing the life and death.

Tugun Karang made by the elders of Balinese people is not just a sacred and simple building. It is a sanctified building made and put at a special location through magical and mystical calculation. Thus, the Tugun Karang serves as a pecalang or guardian in a house compound that keeps safety psychically.

Each sikut satak of home yard must have two kinds of shrine, namely the Pangulun Karang in the form of kemulan or three-

chambered shrine and Panunggun Karang functioned as mentioned before. According to I Gusti Ketut Dalem, a permanent lecturer at the Dharma Duta Faculty of the IHDN Denpasar, Tugun Karang shrine is the abode of Ida Ratu Sedahan Panunggun Karang, in charge of security guard in the house compound.

“Actually, he has existed before there are people taking advantage of the land area either intended for housing or moors. According to the elders, they have diverse manifestations according to the place and position. There is manifestation as Jero Dukuh or elder figure, elephant, horse, tiger and other forms,” he said.

Many people do not know that Tugun Karang is the gateway of psychical beings coming from psychical world to physical world.

Moreover, if a human is willing to enter the psychical dimension must seek permission and pass through this gateway. The deity abiding in the Tungun Karang shrine also plays an important role to protect residents from psychical attacks, such as witch.

However, lately many people are ignorant and do not believe in the power of psychical beings in Tugun Karang. The Kala Tattwa palm-leaf manuscript carries that Ida Bhatara Kala changes its form into Sedahan Karang / Sawah / Abian with the function as Pecalang, having the same function as Pangerurah, Penganggit Lawang or Patih in family temple or public temple. (kmb)

Kamasan Painting Comes with a Message of Life

IBP/kmb

Kamasan painting has been familiar in the ears of Balinese people. This artwork has long been a wealth of Klungkung district.

Apart from its classical appearance, this painting is rich in puppet and animal stories. It is really meaningful. At Kamasan village can be found many centers of the painting activities.

There are also galleries where a number of works created by the artists have been displayed since several years ago. It applies classic colors of red and brownish perfectly combined.

Some paintings offer a jungle feel following a pre-established pattern. They look very lively and beautiful to look at.

Oil rallies for weekly gain as S&P ends losing skid

NEW YORK - Oil prices finished the week at a gain after a big Friday rally, and U.S. stock indices ended flat-to-higher, to close a bumpy week on a high note. Crude prices had been on track for a weekly loss, but spiked on Friday as energy investors looked to cover short bets ahead of a televised interview Sunday by the U.S. news program “60 Minutes” with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The prince will be “comparing Iran’s Ayatollah to Hitler, and the battle in Ghouta, Syria, is ramping up,” said John Kilduff, partner at investment manager Again Capital in New York. “You can’t be short oil over the weekend with all that going on in the region.”

U.S. crude rose 1.72 percent to $62.24 per barrel and Brent was last at $66.12, up 1.54 percent on the day. During the session, Brent hit $66.42, its highest since Feb. 28. Gains on Wall Street also supported crude futures, which have recently been moving in tandem with U.S. stock indices.

The S&P 500, which was down 1.5 percent on the week through Thursday, avoided its first five-day losing streak of 2018, gaining 4.68 points, or 0.17 percent, to 2,752.01. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 72.85 points, or 0.29 percent, to 24,946.51, while the Nasdaq Composite added 0.25 points, or 0 percent, to 7,481.99.

Monday, March 19, 2018

IBP/kmb

The work is not just an expression of the art but there is a message of life. What is scratched is not a common thing. It presents a series of pictures depicting a number of characters contained in the story. One of the themes is heroic attractions on the battlefield. It’s like giving a moral message. It is adopted from various stories, such as Mahabharata and Ramayana epic.

Occasionally, the artists also express his idea inspired by animal or tantric tales.

The painter Mangku Muriati Mura said that in the midst of the art development, the appearance of other paintings is very possible. Nevertheless, he does not get

dissolved in that situation. His great desire to maintain the art is believed to have emerged since the kingdom era that will not fade over the times. The norms are not neglected. Everything is still followed. “We still preserve them all,” he said, not long ago.

This painting is not solely concerned with aesthetics but more than it, where it also offers strong philosophical values. His work is combined with religious elements or teachings quoted from the palm-leaf manuscripts. “We must understand the meaning, not just some scratches,” he said.

Another painter, Kadek Natha, explained that in harmony with the development of times, Kamasan paint coloring began to use acrylic because natural materials are increasingly difficult to obtain. However, the classic impression never fades. It remains to looks sharp and has divine inspiration. “Pere is one of natural dyes, a kind of stone obtained from Sakenan. Its color is yellowish brown, but now many painters have switched from this color,” he explained.

Profession as painter has been pursued since he was in elementary school. His works have been widely sold.

The price is fantastic and comparable to the complexity.

“There is a painting sold for IDR 9 million, even more.

The cheaper is also available,” he said. His paintings are no longer just scratched on canvas, but many of them have been used as hotel room ornaments. “Many hotels ask me to paint in classical style,” said Natha. (kmb)

6

Monday, March 19, 2018

W

RLD

Yuri Kadobnov/POOL via Reuters TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Russian President and Presidential candidate Vladimir Putin at a polling station during the presidential election in Moscow, Russia March 18, 2018.

Putin on track for commanding win as Russians head to polls

International

tin,” said Alexander Kiryukhin, a 79-year-old in the city of Simferopol, Crimea. Russia’s annexation of the region from Ukraine in 2014 earned Putin condemnation from Western governments and admiration from many Russians.

“He sorted our lives out, he’s irreplaceable for the state,” said Kiryukhin.

Putin’s opponents alleged officials were trying to inflate the turnout, by opening up stalls selling discounted goods at polling stations, and instructing state employees to report back to their bosses that they had voted.

Reuters reporters witnessed multiple people in different locations voting in groups, and then

taking photos of themselves in front of the ballot boxes on their mobile phones.

In polling station 1515 in Zelenodolsk, 800 km (500 miles) east of Moscow, five people photographed themselves voting. Asked by a Reuters reporter why, one of the group, a young woman, said: “What do you mean why? It’s a photographic report for our bosses.”

At polling station number 216 in Ust-Djeguta, in the Karachayevo-Cherkessia region of southern Russia, Marina Kostina was marshalling groups of voters to be photographed. Asked why one woman was photographed, Kostina said: “Her work asked her to report in.” (rtr)

Monday, March 19, 2018

Florida school aware of bridge crack before collapse that killed six MIAMI - Engineers and state and university officials met hours before a new pedestrian bridge collapsed in southern Florida, killing six people, but concluded a crack in the structure was not a safety concern, Florida International University said on Saturday.

The meeting on Thursday involved FIGG, which is the private contractor for the overall bridge design, the school, Florida Department of Transportation officials and Munilla Construction Management, which installed the $14.2 million bridge.

A FIGG engineer “concluded there were no safety concerns and the crack did not compromise the structural integrity of the bridge,” the university said in a statement.

About three hours after the meeting ended, the 950-ton bridge collapsed, crushing vehicles stopped at a traffic light on the eight-lane roadway below.

Six people died, including five whose bodies were recovered on Saturday as workers pulled out vehicles from the rubble, officials said.

Police had feared the death toll could rise above six. But authorities found what they believe to be the last body on Saturday, Miami-Dade Police Department director Juan Perez told a news conference.

“We’re going to go once again and make sure that there’s nobody else down there, but we’re pretty confident that no one’s left,” he said.

Three of the victims found on Saturday were identified by police as Rolando Fraga Hernandez, Oswald Gonzalez and Alberto Arias. The names of two others whose bodies were removed from the rubble on Saturday were not immediately released.

Another victim, who died in a hospital after the collapse, was identified by police as Navarro Brown.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the reasons for the bridge’s collapse.

News of the meeting between engineers and officials followed a revelation late on Friday that the engineer overseeing the bridge, which linked the university campus with the city of Sweetwater, had called a state official two days before the collapse to report cracks.

However, the voicemail message from FIGG’s lead engineer Denney Pate, including his assertion the cracking posed no safety issue, was not retrieved until Friday, a day after the tragedy, according to the state transportation agency.

Pate did not immediately respond to email queries. (rtr)

UST-DJEGUTA - Russians vote in a presidential election on Sunday expected to give Vladimir Putin an easy victory, though the Kremlin could miss out on the resounding mandate it wants if large numbers, bored by a one-sided contest, do not bother to vote.

Opinion polls give Putin, the incumbent, support of around 70 percent, or nearly 10 times the backing of his nearest challenger.

Another term will take him to nearly a quarter century in power — a longevity among Kremlin leaders second only to Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.

Many voters credit Putin, a 65-year-old former KGB spy, with standing up for Russia’s interests in what they view as a hostile outside world.

A row with Britain over allegations the Kremlin used a nerve toxin to poison a Russian double agent in a sleepy English town — denied by Moscow — has not dented his standing.

“I voted for our liberator, Pu-

International

REUTERS/Joe Skipper/File Photo

Aerial view shows a pedestrian bridge collapsed at Florida International University in Miami, Florida, U.S., March 15, 2018.

11

Infested Chinese garlic imports kick up a stink in Indonesia

Picture taken March 10, 2018. Antara Foto/Mohammad Ayudha/via REUTERS

The youngest son of former Indonesian president Suharto, Hutomo “Tommy” Mandala Putra, (C) hits the gong at the opening of the Berkarya (Working) Party national meeting where he was voted chairman, in Solo, Central Java, Indonesia March 10, 2018 in this photo taken by Antara Foto.

Suharto’s youngest son in new push to get into Indonesian politics

JAKARTA - The youngest son of former Indonesian president Suharto, Hutomo “Tommy” Mandala Putra, is making a new push to launch a career in politics at the helm of a party that believes it can cash in on his late father’s legacy. Suharto, who ruled Indonesia with an iron fist for 32 years, was brought down by protests in 1998, amid accusations of vast corruption and nepotism benefiting his family and cronies.

Nonetheless, family members have made repeated attempts to get into politics, often seeking to tap into nostalgia about the unity and security under Suharto’s government, which was backed by a military that crushed any sign of revolt.

“The vision and mission of this party is to prepare an alternative option for the 2019 elections,” Badaruddin Andi Picunang, acting sectary general of the Berkarya Party, said in an interview at its Jakarta headquarters. Many people still yearned for the stability and the robust economic growth and development, at least in the earlier decades, of the Suharto era, said Picunang.

“But now we see killings everywhere, pickpockets and religious leaders attacked,” he said. Hutomo echoed this theme in a news conference after being elected chairman of Berkarya, which means “working” in Indonesian, at a party meeting last weekend in the city of Solo. “It is impossible for us to return to the New Order, it has become part of the history,” said Hutomo, who is widely known as Tommy, referring to his

father’s government.

“But what we want to develop and continue are the good things that were carried out by the New Order,” he said, highlighting Suharto’s rolling five-year development plans.

Berkarya has an ambitious target of winning 80 seats, or about 14 percent of the 575 seats in parliament. It is mostly being funded by Tommy and associates, according to Picunang.

POLITICAL MACHINE

A former racing driver with a playboy reputation, Tommy, 55, made a fortune under his father’s powerful patronage. His Humpuss Group of companies held the national monopoly on clove distribution, the key ingredient in Indonesia’s favourite sweet-smelling kretek cigarettes. He was sentenced in 2002 to 15 years in jail for paying a hitman to gun down and kill a supreme court judge, who had convicted him in a graft case. His term was later reduced on appeal and by remissions and he was released in 2007.

In his speech in Solo, Tommy said those who had been convicted and

served their sentence, like himself, had the same rights as anyone else.

Many of the members of Berkarya are former members of Golkar, his father’s old political machine and still the second-biggest party in parliament. Tommy failed in an attempt to win the top job at Golkar and also to get backing from other parties for a bid at the presidency.

His sister, Siti Hediati, popularly known as Titiek, has stuck by Golkar and is a member of parliament. Tobias Basuki, a political analyst at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, was sceptical about Tommy and other family members getting much traction from a link to the Suharto legacy.

The nationalist Gerindra party, led by a former son-in-law of Suharto, Prabowo Subianto, had been able to successfully target many of the voters who might support them, he said.

“I think this is one of their last attempts. They have been trying to stay in the mainstream but none could take control of Golkar and if they don’t move fast they will be irrelevant,” said Basuki.(rtr)

JAKARTA - Indonesia has impounded more than 200 tonnes of garlic imported from China, warning that a microscopic worm infestation found in the shipment could put at risk plans by the Southeast Asian country to boost its own garlic crop. Since coming to power in 2014, Indonesian President Joko Widodo has pursued self-sufficiency policies to protect farmers, but efforts to rely on domestic supplies of everything from beef to rice have at times caused shortages and price spikes.

Chinese food imports have previously proved sensitive in Indonesia.

In 2016, Beijing’s embassy in Jakarta expressed alarm at media reports accusing China of using a “biological weapon” against Indonesia, after four Chinese nationals were arrested for planting imported chilli seeds contaminated with a bacteria. The 232 tonnes of garlic were imported from China in mid-February and after arriving at Jakarta’s port were shipped to the island of Sumatra, the country’s Agriculture Ministry said.

This could be “very damaging to our garlic farming when we are trying to achieve self-sufficiency,” the ministry said in a statement on March 12. Despite being certified as free of pests in China, samples of the shipment contained ditylenchus dipsaci, a microscopic worm that infects onions and garlic, the ministry said.

The nematology department at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln describes the worm as “one of the most devastating plant parasitic nematodes.” When quarantine officials reported the discovery to the importer, the garlic had already been sent to North Sumatra, the agriculture ministry said. The controversy even stirred a heated debate in parliament this week when a member of President Widodo’s ruling party called for a police investigation.

Soetrisno, the chief executive officer of PT Tunas Sumber Rejeki, the company that imported the garlic, could not immediately be reached for comment. The Chinese embassy in Jakarta declined to comment.

The garlic is currently being stored at a warehouse in Belawan Port, Sumatra, that has been sealed by police and the quarantine agency.

Banun Harpini, the head of quarantine at the agriculture ministry, said on Wednesday the importer would be blacklisted. It was not immediately clear what other penalties would be levied.

Indonesia plans to be self sufficient in garlic in 2019 by increasing the growing area for the crop by more than 70,000 hectares (173,000 acres), but this may be an ambitious target since last year the country imported 434,000 tonnes of garlic, more than ten times the amount grown domestically. This year, the agriculture ministry expects 392,000 tonnes will be imported, mostly from China and India.(rtr)

Moch. Arief Cahyono/Courtesy of Badan Karantina Pertanian/Handout via REUTERS

Police tape is seen around confiscated garlic from China at a warehouse in Belawan, Indonesia, March 13, 2018. Picture taken March 13, 2018.

10

Destination

Monday, March 19, 2018

SINGARAJA - Bali Bike Park is a large purpose-built arena in the village of Pancasari in North Bali, which features a variety of trails for mountain bikers. Available trails include Cross-country, Downhill and Enduro, which are suitable for both adults and

International

Bali Bike Park

children. You can choose a trail of your choice and cycle around while enjoying great views, meet locals, exercise, and end your day with some local food and a swim in the ocean.

Bali Bike Park provides all of the necessary equipment and

information to give you a thrilling experience. They rent you professional mountain bikes that are maintained daily by mechanics, together with safety gear and maps of the trails. They will even join you as your guide, if you want. To enter the park, you pay

an entrance fee of IDR 775,000 (US$ 58), to rent a bike and gear, it’s IDR IDR 225,000 (USD 18) for children and 450,000 (USD 34) for grown-ups. You can choose from three different trail levels in the park: beginner, intermediate and advanced. These are

designated into coloured categories, so you have two blue lines suitable for introduction lessons and training; four red lines with berms, roots and jumps of all kinds; and two black lines with steep downhill sections, big roots and big jumps. (net)

Monday, March 19, 2018

International

Durant out at least two weeks after MRI on ribs

THE Golden State Warriors will be without Kevin Durant for the next two weeks as he recovers from an incomplete rib-cartilage fracture on his right side.

Durant had been ruled out for Friday night’s loss to the Sacramento Kings, but announced before the game that an MRI had shown his injury to be more serious than he thought.

“It hurts when I laugh,” he said, per ESPN. “Right now, since it’s so new, getting up and out of bed and getting up and out of my seat -- normal movements throughout the day, not even basketball movements, that irritates it just a bit. And then obviously on the court.

“Hopefully this feels better over the next week or so, and I’ll be out there.”

Durant said he suffered the injury last Sunday in a collision with Minnesota’s Karl-Anthion Towns, then aggravated it against the Lakers a couple nights later.

“Late in the game, I was driving to the rim and I kind of rammed into Karl-Anthony Towns, and that’s when I felt it,” Durant said Friday. “That’s when it happened, for sure, and they told me it got inflamed over the last couple days between games.”

Durant is averaging 26.6 points,

6.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists in his second season with the Warriors.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr weighed in the potential long-term impact of his latest star player to be sidelined with an injury. “(My concern is) not too high because we’re probably looking at a week or two and evaluate him, but it doesn’t appear to be anything longer than that,” Kerr said. “All these injuries seem to be temporary.

A couple weeks, a week, two weeks -- whatever. We’re in good shape.

We’ve just got to survive this next slate of games and hopefully start getting guys back and get rolling again for the playoffs.”

Klay Thompson (fractured thumb) and Steph Curry (sprained ankle) are also out for Golden State.

Curry and Thompson will have their injuries re-evaluated next week and both could potentially be back to oppose the Atlanta Hawks on March 23 in the opener of a fourgame Warriors homestand.

Thompson is averaging 19.7 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game, all slightly above his career averages.

Curry, 29, is averaging 26.3 points, 6.2 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game this season. (rtr)

Yohan Blake

Jamaica’s Blake sees Comm Games as step to build on Bolt’s legacy

MELBOURNE - Next month’s Commonwealth Games will be Yohan Blake’s chance to build on Usain Bolt’s “legacy” and step out of the track great’s shadow, the former 100 metres world champion said on Sunday.

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Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) looks to pass the ball over Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jeff Teague (0) in the second half at Target Center.

IBP/net

Bolt retired last year with eight Olympic and 11 world championship gold medals to his name, leaving his former training partner Blake to carry the flame for Jamaica.

“Usain Bolt has left his legacy for us to carry on and that’s what we want to do,” Blake told local media after landing in Australia for the April 4-15 Games on the Gold Coast.

“That’s what I want, to start with the Commonwealths, to take over the dominance of the sprinting world.”

The 28-year-old Blake won his only individual global title in the 100m at the 2011 world championships when Bolt was disqualified in the final, but has three other gold medals as a member of the Jamaican 4x100m relay team.

He has yet to win any kind of medal at the Commonwealth Games but Bolt, who ran the relay at his only Commonwealths appearance in Glasgow four years ago,

joked there would be trouble if Blake did not succeed when the athletics programme begins April 8.

“Usain Bolt was at the track in Jamaica before I left,” said Blake. “He said, ‘if you don’t win there is going to be problems’.

“I don’t have a Commonwealth medal. It’s very important for me to have one in my trophy case.”

Blake, who finished fourth in the 100m at the Rio Olympics, was in top form last year heading into the world championships in London and qualified third fastest for the final.

However, he was shut out of the medals by Bolt, who took bronze behind winner Justin Gatlin and Christian Coleman. Blake also failed to make the 200m final in a surprise.

The absence of Canada’s Andre De Grasse makes Blake a leading contender in both the sprints, though he will have stiff competition in the 100 from Adam Gemili, the Glasgow silver medallist, and another Englishman in Zharnel Hughes in the 200.

“It will be a better year this one and I want the Commonwealth Games to set the year up for me,” Blake said.

“We are ready to go. My body is great. Australia is where it all begins.” (rtr)

8

Monday, March 19, 2018

Monday, March 19, 2018

Sp rt Mourinho slams United’s “lack of personality and desire”

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah celebrates scoring their fourth goal

REUTERS/Phil Noble

Liverpool’s Salah ‘on his way’ to Messi comparisons, says Klopp

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is on his way to reaching the elite level of Lionel Messi but has no interest in being compared to the prodigious Barcelona striker, manager Juergen Klopp has said. Salah, 25, struck four goals in Liverpool’s 5-0 thrashing of Watford that lifted them back into third place in the Premier League on Saturday.

The Egypt international moved to 28 league goals, four goals clear of Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane in the race for the Golden Boot. He has 36 in all competitions this season, the most by a Liverpool player in a debut campaign for the club.

Asked about the similarities in Salah and Messi’s style of play, Klopp said: “Mo is on the way, that’s good. I don’t think that Mo or anybody else wants to be compared

with Lionel Messi.

“He (Messi) has been doing what he’s been doing for what feels like 20 years or so... the last player I know who had the same influence on a team performance was Diego Maradona.” The last player to score four goals in a Liverpool shirt was Messi’s current strike partner at Barcelona Luis Suarez.

The Uruguay international netted a first-half hat-trick before adding another after the break in

a 5-1 league victory over Norwich City in 2013. “Mo is on a fantastic way... but how it always is in life, if you have the skills then you have to show it constantly,” Klopp added.

“His consistency is good for us.

He helps us a lot, the boys love playing with him, he loves playing with them, so it’s good.” Liverpool moved to 63 points from 31 games, two behind second-placed Manchester United who have a game in hand.(rtr)

Felipe Gutierrez’s 68th-minute goal proved to be the winner as Sporting Kansas City held on for a 3-2 victory against the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday night at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan. Gutierrez collected his third goal of the season, as he had a pair in Sporting K.C.’s 4-3 comeback victory against the Chicago Fire last weekend.

Ilie Sanchez and Graham Zusi each had one goal apiece for Sporting K.C. (2-1-0), which has earned back-to-back wins after being blanked 2-0 by New York City FC in its MLS season opener

on March 4.

Valeri Qazaishvili and Chris Wondolowski had the goals for San Jose (1-1-0), which slipped following a 3-2 season-opening win on the road against Minnesota United. Sporting K.C. goalkeeper Tim Melia had two saves while San Jose keeper Andrew Tarbell logged just one save. Sanchez put SKC on the board in the 25th minute on a penalty kick, marking the first goal of his MLS career.

Just nine minutes later, the Earthquakes had the game knotted up at 1 after Qazaishvili’s strike.

After the game headed into the break

with the score tied, Zusi struck in the 56th minute off an assist from Roger Espinoza to put SKC back up 2-1.

Gutierrez’s goal off assists from Daniel Salloi and Johnny Russell provided Sporting K.C. with some important insurance, as Wondolowski made things interesting with his goal in the first minute of stoppage time off an assist from Magnus Eriksson.

Sporting K.C. heads back out on the road for a match against the Colorado Rapids next Saturday.

San Jose resumes its MLS schedule on March 31 at home against New York City FC.(rtr)

MANCHESTER - A day after he took on his critics in a news conference diatribe, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho took aim at his players after a lacklustre performance in their 2-0 FA Cup win over Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Mourinho had made little direct criticism of his team after Tuesday’s poor display in the Champions League defeat by Sevilla or on Friday when he defended his work and questioned assumptions about United’s heritage.

But this time his anger was firmly directed at the majority of his players. “I didn’t like the game. I think we deserved to win because I think the game was in control for the majority, we scored two and they didn’t score, but we didn’t play as I prepared the team to play,” he told BT Sport. Mourinho singled out midfielder Nemanja Matic, who created the first goal for Romelu Lukaku and added the second himself with a late header, as one of the few players he was satisfied with.

“Many, many times Matic was an island of personality and desire and control, surrounded, not by water but by a lack of personality, class and desire,” said the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager.

Asked whether he had seen a positive reaction from his players after the Sevilla loss, he said: “I didn’t have the reaction from all of them.

I had the reaction from some of them. And because some of them were mentally strong enough and with the football quality to play,

was the reason why we won.”

Mourinho showed particular anger that his demand in training for a quicker and more incisive transition game had not been carried out in practice. “When I spend two days working on this and then I arrive here, attacking players hiding behind defenders, not wanting the ball between the lines, defenders playing just square passes and taking 10 to 12 passes to get from one line to another line I have to feel frustrated,” he said.

“Because I think as a coach the biggest frustration is not the result because sometimes a bad result can happen,” Mourinho added.

“We prepared the team to be more aggressive, to attack the last line much more and that connection between defenders in possession and attacking players didn’t work.

I want more personality in the team,” he said.

As well as Matic, Mourinho praised young midfielder Scott McTominay, although even those words were peppered with criticism of others. “McTominay lost more passes today than in all the matches he played together but he was a Manchester United player. And for me a Manchester United player is a player that, when he plays bad, he gives to the team,” he said.

“The perfect Manchester United player is the one that has quality and personality and is consistent on that. But when you play bad you must have that personality that a kid of 20 years old has and some of the others didn’t have.”(rtr)

Sporting K.C. edges Earthquakes, 3-2

REUTERS/Andrew Yates

Manchester United’s Nemanja Matic celebrates scoring their second goal

9

Juve’s winning run ended by lowly SPAL MILAN - Leaders Juventus saw their 12-match winning run in Serie A ended by lowly SPAL on Saturday when they were held to a 0-0 draw by opponents who began the day in the relegation zone. It was the first time since Dec. 9 that the Turin side had failed to win a league game and the result breathed new life into the Serie A title race just as Juventus had threatened to break clear.

Although Juventus moved five points ahead at the top, second-placed Napoli’s fate is back in their own hands as they host Genoa on Sunday, when they can cut the lead to two points, and still have to meet Juve in mid-April. Juventus, who completed their 10th league game without conceding a goal, dominated possession but were unable to find a way past SPAL’s resolute defence.

SPAL’s Filippo Costa did well to block Alex Sandro after he was sent through by Douglas Costa and Paulo Dybala curled a Juventus free kick on to the roof of the net just before halftime. Mario Mandzukic had Juve’s best second-half chance when he met Costa’s cross with a diving header but his effort went wide.

SPAL, who are back in Serie A after a 49-year absence, moved one point and one place clear of the relegation zone. A

capacity 13,000 crowd at their modest stadium celebrated the final whistle as if they had won a title.

“I’m not angry or disappointed, we were up against a SPAL side who fought hard and believed in themselves,” Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said.

“They were very aggressive and they committed a lot of fouls, but these aren’t excuses.”

Allegri warned that Juve would face similar tough matches against other relegation candidates. “This match should be a lesson for when we play Benevento and Crotone, who are fighting for survival and will make things difficult,” he said.

SPAL captain Mirco Antenucci said the result was “something to be proud of, it’s very satisfying”. Sassuolo ended a ninematch winless run by beating Udinese 2-1 in Saturday’s other game and handed their opponents a fifth successive loss. Sassuolo went ahead thanks to an own goal when Stefano Sensi’s corner ricocheted off Ali Adnan and into the net in the 42nd minute Seko Fofana equalised two minutes later by curling an exquisite effort into the top corner, a goal which was confirmed after a review by the video assistant referee (VAR). Sensi turned in Matteo Politano’s cross for the winner in the 74th minute.(rtr)

Spal players celebrate after the match

Derby County’s Championship clash with Cardiff postponed due to snow

The only game in the Championship on Sunday is no more due to adverse weather conditions. Play-off chasing Derby County had been due to face fellow promotion hopefuls Cardiff City in an exciting midday Championship kick-off. However, just before 9am Derby confirmed that the match was postponed due to heavy snowfall overnight.

Following persistent heavy snowfall in Derby overnight, the surrounding areas at Pride Park Stadium have been left in an unsafe condition for supporters, staff and officials,’ they announced in a short statement. ‘A new match date will be communicated to supporters in due course on dcfc. co.uk.’The news won’t have pleased those Cardiff fans who would have begun the 156-mile journey to the east Midlands.

Fifth-placed Derby would have been severely hamstrung going into

the match with only 10 players having trained on Friday while Tom Huddlestone is also currently banned.

Meanwhile high-flying Cardiff sit second and are unbeaten in their last 11 Championship matches - winning nine and drawing two.

Derby boss Gary Rowett was facing a selection headache going into the game due to injuries and suspensions Cardiff boss Neil Warnock has steered his side to nine wins and two draws in their last 11 league games Elsewhere, the Anglo-Welsh Cup final between Bath and Exeter Chiefs at Kingsholm has also fallen victim to the weather. Heavy snowfall in Gloucester overnight made conditions treacherous. With the safety of supporters, players and officials in mind, Premiership Rugby took the decision to call the game off.

In the Super League, Castleford’s home clash with Wigan was called off.

The club held a 10am pitch inspection but were unable to guarantee player or spectator safety. Exeter Chiefs will have to wait to play their AngloWelsh Cup final against Bath due to the snow. The club’s safety officer Ian Crawford said: ‘Postponing a game is never an option we take lightly and I must give praise to our groundsman Stuart Vause who really has worked so hard over the past week.

‘The sheer volume of rainfall we had before the snow and sub zero temperatures overnight have left us with a frozen pitch and frozen terraces.’

In racing, Sunday’s fixture list was wiped out as both Carlisle and Ffos Las were forced to abandon.

Carlisle’s meeting had been in some doubt with an 8am inspection called due to forecast snow but as soon as officials arrived at the Cumbrian venue shortly after 6am, they were able to take an early decision.(rtr)

REUTERS/Alberto Lingria

8

Monday, March 19, 2018

Monday, March 19, 2018

Sp rt Mourinho slams United’s “lack of personality and desire”

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah celebrates scoring their fourth goal

REUTERS/Phil Noble

Liverpool’s Salah ‘on his way’ to Messi comparisons, says Klopp

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is on his way to reaching the elite level of Lionel Messi but has no interest in being compared to the prodigious Barcelona striker, manager Juergen Klopp has said. Salah, 25, struck four goals in Liverpool’s 5-0 thrashing of Watford that lifted them back into third place in the Premier League on Saturday.

The Egypt international moved to 28 league goals, four goals clear of Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane in the race for the Golden Boot. He has 36 in all competitions this season, the most by a Liverpool player in a debut campaign for the club.

Asked about the similarities in Salah and Messi’s style of play, Klopp said: “Mo is on the way, that’s good. I don’t think that Mo or anybody else wants to be compared

with Lionel Messi.

“He (Messi) has been doing what he’s been doing for what feels like 20 years or so... the last player I know who had the same influence on a team performance was Diego Maradona.” The last player to score four goals in a Liverpool shirt was Messi’s current strike partner at Barcelona Luis Suarez.

The Uruguay international netted a first-half hat-trick before adding another after the break in

a 5-1 league victory over Norwich City in 2013. “Mo is on a fantastic way... but how it always is in life, if you have the skills then you have to show it constantly,” Klopp added.

“His consistency is good for us.

He helps us a lot, the boys love playing with him, he loves playing with them, so it’s good.” Liverpool moved to 63 points from 31 games, two behind second-placed Manchester United who have a game in hand.(rtr)

Felipe Gutierrez’s 68th-minute goal proved to be the winner as Sporting Kansas City held on for a 3-2 victory against the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday night at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan. Gutierrez collected his third goal of the season, as he had a pair in Sporting K.C.’s 4-3 comeback victory against the Chicago Fire last weekend.

Ilie Sanchez and Graham Zusi each had one goal apiece for Sporting K.C. (2-1-0), which has earned back-to-back wins after being blanked 2-0 by New York City FC in its MLS season opener

on March 4.

Valeri Qazaishvili and Chris Wondolowski had the goals for San Jose (1-1-0), which slipped following a 3-2 season-opening win on the road against Minnesota United. Sporting K.C. goalkeeper Tim Melia had two saves while San Jose keeper Andrew Tarbell logged just one save. Sanchez put SKC on the board in the 25th minute on a penalty kick, marking the first goal of his MLS career.

Just nine minutes later, the Earthquakes had the game knotted up at 1 after Qazaishvili’s strike.

After the game headed into the break

with the score tied, Zusi struck in the 56th minute off an assist from Roger Espinoza to put SKC back up 2-1.

Gutierrez’s goal off assists from Daniel Salloi and Johnny Russell provided Sporting K.C. with some important insurance, as Wondolowski made things interesting with his goal in the first minute of stoppage time off an assist from Magnus Eriksson.

Sporting K.C. heads back out on the road for a match against the Colorado Rapids next Saturday.

San Jose resumes its MLS schedule on March 31 at home against New York City FC.(rtr)

MANCHESTER - A day after he took on his critics in a news conference diatribe, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho took aim at his players after a lacklustre performance in their 2-0 FA Cup win over Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Mourinho had made little direct criticism of his team after Tuesday’s poor display in the Champions League defeat by Sevilla or on Friday when he defended his work and questioned assumptions about United’s heritage.

But this time his anger was firmly directed at the majority of his players. “I didn’t like the game. I think we deserved to win because I think the game was in control for the majority, we scored two and they didn’t score, but we didn’t play as I prepared the team to play,” he told BT Sport. Mourinho singled out midfielder Nemanja Matic, who created the first goal for Romelu Lukaku and added the second himself with a late header, as one of the few players he was satisfied with.

“Many, many times Matic was an island of personality and desire and control, surrounded, not by water but by a lack of personality, class and desire,” said the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager.

Asked whether he had seen a positive reaction from his players after the Sevilla loss, he said: “I didn’t have the reaction from all of them.

I had the reaction from some of them. And because some of them were mentally strong enough and with the football quality to play,

was the reason why we won.”

Mourinho showed particular anger that his demand in training for a quicker and more incisive transition game had not been carried out in practice. “When I spend two days working on this and then I arrive here, attacking players hiding behind defenders, not wanting the ball between the lines, defenders playing just square passes and taking 10 to 12 passes to get from one line to another line I have to feel frustrated,” he said.

“Because I think as a coach the biggest frustration is not the result because sometimes a bad result can happen,” Mourinho added.

“We prepared the team to be more aggressive, to attack the last line much more and that connection between defenders in possession and attacking players didn’t work.

I want more personality in the team,” he said.

As well as Matic, Mourinho praised young midfielder Scott McTominay, although even those words were peppered with criticism of others. “McTominay lost more passes today than in all the matches he played together but he was a Manchester United player. And for me a Manchester United player is a player that, when he plays bad, he gives to the team,” he said.

“The perfect Manchester United player is the one that has quality and personality and is consistent on that. But when you play bad you must have that personality that a kid of 20 years old has and some of the others didn’t have.”(rtr)

Sporting K.C. edges Earthquakes, 3-2

REUTERS/Andrew Yates

Manchester United’s Nemanja Matic celebrates scoring their second goal

9

Juve’s winning run ended by lowly SPAL MILAN - Leaders Juventus saw their 12-match winning run in Serie A ended by lowly SPAL on Saturday when they were held to a 0-0 draw by opponents who began the day in the relegation zone. It was the first time since Dec. 9 that the Turin side had failed to win a league game and the result breathed new life into the Serie A title race just as Juventus had threatened to break clear.

Although Juventus moved five points ahead at the top, second-placed Napoli’s fate is back in their own hands as they host Genoa on Sunday, when they can cut the lead to two points, and still have to meet Juve in mid-April. Juventus, who completed their 10th league game without conceding a goal, dominated possession but were unable to find a way past SPAL’s resolute defence.

SPAL’s Filippo Costa did well to block Alex Sandro after he was sent through by Douglas Costa and Paulo Dybala curled a Juventus free kick on to the roof of the net just before halftime. Mario Mandzukic had Juve’s best second-half chance when he met Costa’s cross with a diving header but his effort went wide.

SPAL, who are back in Serie A after a 49-year absence, moved one point and one place clear of the relegation zone. A

capacity 13,000 crowd at their modest stadium celebrated the final whistle as if they had won a title.

“I’m not angry or disappointed, we were up against a SPAL side who fought hard and believed in themselves,” Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said.

“They were very aggressive and they committed a lot of fouls, but these aren’t excuses.”

Allegri warned that Juve would face similar tough matches against other relegation candidates. “This match should be a lesson for when we play Benevento and Crotone, who are fighting for survival and will make things difficult,” he said.

SPAL captain Mirco Antenucci said the result was “something to be proud of, it’s very satisfying”. Sassuolo ended a ninematch winless run by beating Udinese 2-1 in Saturday’s other game and handed their opponents a fifth successive loss. Sassuolo went ahead thanks to an own goal when Stefano Sensi’s corner ricocheted off Ali Adnan and into the net in the 42nd minute Seko Fofana equalised two minutes later by curling an exquisite effort into the top corner, a goal which was confirmed after a review by the video assistant referee (VAR). Sensi turned in Matteo Politano’s cross for the winner in the 74th minute.(rtr)

Spal players celebrate after the match

Derby County’s Championship clash with Cardiff postponed due to snow

The only game in the Championship on Sunday is no more due to adverse weather conditions. Play-off chasing Derby County had been due to face fellow promotion hopefuls Cardiff City in an exciting midday Championship kick-off. However, just before 9am Derby confirmed that the match was postponed due to heavy snowfall overnight.

Following persistent heavy snowfall in Derby overnight, the surrounding areas at Pride Park Stadium have been left in an unsafe condition for supporters, staff and officials,’ they announced in a short statement. ‘A new match date will be communicated to supporters in due course on dcfc. co.uk.’The news won’t have pleased those Cardiff fans who would have begun the 156-mile journey to the east Midlands.

Fifth-placed Derby would have been severely hamstrung going into

the match with only 10 players having trained on Friday while Tom Huddlestone is also currently banned.

Meanwhile high-flying Cardiff sit second and are unbeaten in their last 11 Championship matches - winning nine and drawing two.

Derby boss Gary Rowett was facing a selection headache going into the game due to injuries and suspensions Cardiff boss Neil Warnock has steered his side to nine wins and two draws in their last 11 league games Elsewhere, the Anglo-Welsh Cup final between Bath and Exeter Chiefs at Kingsholm has also fallen victim to the weather. Heavy snowfall in Gloucester overnight made conditions treacherous. With the safety of supporters, players and officials in mind, Premiership Rugby took the decision to call the game off.

In the Super League, Castleford’s home clash with Wigan was called off.

The club held a 10am pitch inspection but were unable to guarantee player or spectator safety. Exeter Chiefs will have to wait to play their AngloWelsh Cup final against Bath due to the snow. The club’s safety officer Ian Crawford said: ‘Postponing a game is never an option we take lightly and I must give praise to our groundsman Stuart Vause who really has worked so hard over the past week.

‘The sheer volume of rainfall we had before the snow and sub zero temperatures overnight have left us with a frozen pitch and frozen terraces.’

In racing, Sunday’s fixture list was wiped out as both Carlisle and Ffos Las were forced to abandon.

Carlisle’s meeting had been in some doubt with an 8am inspection called due to forecast snow but as soon as officials arrived at the Cumbrian venue shortly after 6am, they were able to take an early decision.(rtr)

REUTERS/Alberto Lingria

10

Destination

Monday, March 19, 2018

SINGARAJA - Bali Bike Park is a large purpose-built arena in the village of Pancasari in North Bali, which features a variety of trails for mountain bikers. Available trails include Cross-country, Downhill and Enduro, which are suitable for both adults and

International

Bali Bike Park

children. You can choose a trail of your choice and cycle around while enjoying great views, meet locals, exercise, and end your day with some local food and a swim in the ocean.

Bali Bike Park provides all of the necessary equipment and

information to give you a thrilling experience. They rent you professional mountain bikes that are maintained daily by mechanics, together with safety gear and maps of the trails. They will even join you as your guide, if you want. To enter the park, you pay

an entrance fee of IDR 775,000 (US$ 58), to rent a bike and gear, it’s IDR IDR 225,000 (USD 18) for children and 450,000 (USD 34) for grown-ups. You can choose from three different trail levels in the park: beginner, intermediate and advanced. These are

designated into coloured categories, so you have two blue lines suitable for introduction lessons and training; four red lines with berms, roots and jumps of all kinds; and two black lines with steep downhill sections, big roots and big jumps. (net)

Monday, March 19, 2018

International

Durant out at least two weeks after MRI on ribs

THE Golden State Warriors will be without Kevin Durant for the next two weeks as he recovers from an incomplete rib-cartilage fracture on his right side.

Durant had been ruled out for Friday night’s loss to the Sacramento Kings, but announced before the game that an MRI had shown his injury to be more serious than he thought.

“It hurts when I laugh,” he said, per ESPN. “Right now, since it’s so new, getting up and out of bed and getting up and out of my seat -- normal movements throughout the day, not even basketball movements, that irritates it just a bit. And then obviously on the court.

“Hopefully this feels better over the next week or so, and I’ll be out there.”

Durant said he suffered the injury last Sunday in a collision with Minnesota’s Karl-Anthion Towns, then aggravated it against the Lakers a couple nights later.

“Late in the game, I was driving to the rim and I kind of rammed into Karl-Anthony Towns, and that’s when I felt it,” Durant said Friday. “That’s when it happened, for sure, and they told me it got inflamed over the last couple days between games.”

Durant is averaging 26.6 points,

6.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists in his second season with the Warriors.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr weighed in the potential long-term impact of his latest star player to be sidelined with an injury. “(My concern is) not too high because we’re probably looking at a week or two and evaluate him, but it doesn’t appear to be anything longer than that,” Kerr said. “All these injuries seem to be temporary.

A couple weeks, a week, two weeks -- whatever. We’re in good shape.

We’ve just got to survive this next slate of games and hopefully start getting guys back and get rolling again for the playoffs.”

Klay Thompson (fractured thumb) and Steph Curry (sprained ankle) are also out for Golden State.

Curry and Thompson will have their injuries re-evaluated next week and both could potentially be back to oppose the Atlanta Hawks on March 23 in the opener of a fourgame Warriors homestand.

Thompson is averaging 19.7 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game, all slightly above his career averages.

Curry, 29, is averaging 26.3 points, 6.2 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game this season. (rtr)

Yohan Blake

Jamaica’s Blake sees Comm Games as step to build on Bolt’s legacy

MELBOURNE - Next month’s Commonwealth Games will be Yohan Blake’s chance to build on Usain Bolt’s “legacy” and step out of the track great’s shadow, the former 100 metres world champion said on Sunday.

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Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) looks to pass the ball over Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jeff Teague (0) in the second half at Target Center.

IBP/net

Bolt retired last year with eight Olympic and 11 world championship gold medals to his name, leaving his former training partner Blake to carry the flame for Jamaica.

“Usain Bolt has left his legacy for us to carry on and that’s what we want to do,” Blake told local media after landing in Australia for the April 4-15 Games on the Gold Coast.

“That’s what I want, to start with the Commonwealths, to take over the dominance of the sprinting world.”

The 28-year-old Blake won his only individual global title in the 100m at the 2011 world championships when Bolt was disqualified in the final, but has three other gold medals as a member of the Jamaican 4x100m relay team.

He has yet to win any kind of medal at the Commonwealth Games but Bolt, who ran the relay at his only Commonwealths appearance in Glasgow four years ago,

joked there would be trouble if Blake did not succeed when the athletics programme begins April 8.

“Usain Bolt was at the track in Jamaica before I left,” said Blake. “He said, ‘if you don’t win there is going to be problems’.

“I don’t have a Commonwealth medal. It’s very important for me to have one in my trophy case.”

Blake, who finished fourth in the 100m at the Rio Olympics, was in top form last year heading into the world championships in London and qualified third fastest for the final.

However, he was shut out of the medals by Bolt, who took bronze behind winner Justin Gatlin and Christian Coleman. Blake also failed to make the 200m final in a surprise.

The absence of Canada’s Andre De Grasse makes Blake a leading contender in both the sprints, though he will have stiff competition in the 100 from Adam Gemili, the Glasgow silver medallist, and another Englishman in Zharnel Hughes in the 200.

“It will be a better year this one and I want the Commonwealth Games to set the year up for me,” Blake said.

“We are ready to go. My body is great. Australia is where it all begins.” (rtr)

6

Monday, March 19, 2018

W

RLD

Yuri Kadobnov/POOL via Reuters TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Russian President and Presidential candidate Vladimir Putin at a polling station during the presidential election in Moscow, Russia March 18, 2018.

Putin on track for commanding win as Russians head to polls

International

tin,” said Alexander Kiryukhin, a 79-year-old in the city of Simferopol, Crimea. Russia’s annexation of the region from Ukraine in 2014 earned Putin condemnation from Western governments and admiration from many Russians.

“He sorted our lives out, he’s irreplaceable for the state,” said Kiryukhin.

Putin’s opponents alleged officials were trying to inflate the turnout, by opening up stalls selling discounted goods at polling stations, and instructing state employees to report back to their bosses that they had voted.

Reuters reporters witnessed multiple people in different locations voting in groups, and then

taking photos of themselves in front of the ballot boxes on their mobile phones.

In polling station 1515 in Zelenodolsk, 800 km (500 miles) east of Moscow, five people photographed themselves voting. Asked by a Reuters reporter why, one of the group, a young woman, said: “What do you mean why? It’s a photographic report for our bosses.”

At polling station number 216 in Ust-Djeguta, in the Karachayevo-Cherkessia region of southern Russia, Marina Kostina was marshalling groups of voters to be photographed. Asked why one woman was photographed, Kostina said: “Her work asked her to report in.” (rtr)

Monday, March 19, 2018

Florida school aware of bridge crack before collapse that killed six MIAMI - Engineers and state and university officials met hours before a new pedestrian bridge collapsed in southern Florida, killing six people, but concluded a crack in the structure was not a safety concern, Florida International University said on Saturday.

The meeting on Thursday involved FIGG, which is the private contractor for the overall bridge design, the school, Florida Department of Transportation officials and Munilla Construction Management, which installed the $14.2 million bridge.

A FIGG engineer “concluded there were no safety concerns and the crack did not compromise the structural integrity of the bridge,” the university said in a statement.

About three hours after the meeting ended, the 950-ton bridge collapsed, crushing vehicles stopped at a traffic light on the eight-lane roadway below.

Six people died, including five whose bodies were recovered on Saturday as workers pulled out vehicles from the rubble, officials said.

Police had feared the death toll could rise above six. But authorities found what they believe to be the last body on Saturday, Miami-Dade Police Department director Juan Perez told a news conference.

“We’re going to go once again and make sure that there’s nobody else down there, but we’re pretty confident that no one’s left,” he said.

Three of the victims found on Saturday were identified by police as Rolando Fraga Hernandez, Oswald Gonzalez and Alberto Arias. The names of two others whose bodies were removed from the rubble on Saturday were not immediately released.

Another victim, who died in a hospital after the collapse, was identified by police as Navarro Brown.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the reasons for the bridge’s collapse.

News of the meeting between engineers and officials followed a revelation late on Friday that the engineer overseeing the bridge, which linked the university campus with the city of Sweetwater, had called a state official two days before the collapse to report cracks.

However, the voicemail message from FIGG’s lead engineer Denney Pate, including his assertion the cracking posed no safety issue, was not retrieved until Friday, a day after the tragedy, according to the state transportation agency.

Pate did not immediately respond to email queries. (rtr)

UST-DJEGUTA - Russians vote in a presidential election on Sunday expected to give Vladimir Putin an easy victory, though the Kremlin could miss out on the resounding mandate it wants if large numbers, bored by a one-sided contest, do not bother to vote.

Opinion polls give Putin, the incumbent, support of around 70 percent, or nearly 10 times the backing of his nearest challenger.

Another term will take him to nearly a quarter century in power — a longevity among Kremlin leaders second only to Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.

Many voters credit Putin, a 65-year-old former KGB spy, with standing up for Russia’s interests in what they view as a hostile outside world.

A row with Britain over allegations the Kremlin used a nerve toxin to poison a Russian double agent in a sleepy English town — denied by Moscow — has not dented his standing.

“I voted for our liberator, Pu-

International

REUTERS/Joe Skipper/File Photo

Aerial view shows a pedestrian bridge collapsed at Florida International University in Miami, Florida, U.S., March 15, 2018.

11

Infested Chinese garlic imports kick up a stink in Indonesia

Picture taken March 10, 2018. Antara Foto/Mohammad Ayudha/via REUTERS

The youngest son of former Indonesian president Suharto, Hutomo “Tommy” Mandala Putra, (C) hits the gong at the opening of the Berkarya (Working) Party national meeting where he was voted chairman, in Solo, Central Java, Indonesia March 10, 2018 in this photo taken by Antara Foto.

Suharto’s youngest son in new push to get into Indonesian politics

JAKARTA - The youngest son of former Indonesian president Suharto, Hutomo “Tommy” Mandala Putra, is making a new push to launch a career in politics at the helm of a party that believes it can cash in on his late father’s legacy. Suharto, who ruled Indonesia with an iron fist for 32 years, was brought down by protests in 1998, amid accusations of vast corruption and nepotism benefiting his family and cronies.

Nonetheless, family members have made repeated attempts to get into politics, often seeking to tap into nostalgia about the unity and security under Suharto’s government, which was backed by a military that crushed any sign of revolt.

“The vision and mission of this party is to prepare an alternative option for the 2019 elections,” Badaruddin Andi Picunang, acting sectary general of the Berkarya Party, said in an interview at its Jakarta headquarters. Many people still yearned for the stability and the robust economic growth and development, at least in the earlier decades, of the Suharto era, said Picunang.

“But now we see killings everywhere, pickpockets and religious leaders attacked,” he said. Hutomo echoed this theme in a news conference after being elected chairman of Berkarya, which means “working” in Indonesian, at a party meeting last weekend in the city of Solo. “It is impossible for us to return to the New Order, it has become part of the history,” said Hutomo, who is widely known as Tommy, referring to his

father’s government.

“But what we want to develop and continue are the good things that were carried out by the New Order,” he said, highlighting Suharto’s rolling five-year development plans.

Berkarya has an ambitious target of winning 80 seats, or about 14 percent of the 575 seats in parliament. It is mostly being funded by Tommy and associates, according to Picunang.

POLITICAL MACHINE

A former racing driver with a playboy reputation, Tommy, 55, made a fortune under his father’s powerful patronage. His Humpuss Group of companies held the national monopoly on clove distribution, the key ingredient in Indonesia’s favourite sweet-smelling kretek cigarettes. He was sentenced in 2002 to 15 years in jail for paying a hitman to gun down and kill a supreme court judge, who had convicted him in a graft case. His term was later reduced on appeal and by remissions and he was released in 2007.

In his speech in Solo, Tommy said those who had been convicted and

served their sentence, like himself, had the same rights as anyone else.

Many of the members of Berkarya are former members of Golkar, his father’s old political machine and still the second-biggest party in parliament. Tommy failed in an attempt to win the top job at Golkar and also to get backing from other parties for a bid at the presidency.

His sister, Siti Hediati, popularly known as Titiek, has stuck by Golkar and is a member of parliament. Tobias Basuki, a political analyst at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, was sceptical about Tommy and other family members getting much traction from a link to the Suharto legacy.

The nationalist Gerindra party, led by a former son-in-law of Suharto, Prabowo Subianto, had been able to successfully target many of the voters who might support them, he said.

“I think this is one of their last attempts. They have been trying to stay in the mainstream but none could take control of Golkar and if they don’t move fast they will be irrelevant,” said Basuki.(rtr)

JAKARTA - Indonesia has impounded more than 200 tonnes of garlic imported from China, warning that a microscopic worm infestation found in the shipment could put at risk plans by the Southeast Asian country to boost its own garlic crop. Since coming to power in 2014, Indonesian President Joko Widodo has pursued self-sufficiency policies to protect farmers, but efforts to rely on domestic supplies of everything from beef to rice have at times caused shortages and price spikes.

Chinese food imports have previously proved sensitive in Indonesia.

In 2016, Beijing’s embassy in Jakarta expressed alarm at media reports accusing China of using a “biological weapon” against Indonesia, after four Chinese nationals were arrested for planting imported chilli seeds contaminated with a bacteria. The 232 tonnes of garlic were imported from China in mid-February and after arriving at Jakarta’s port were shipped to the island of Sumatra, the country’s Agriculture Ministry said.

This could be “very damaging to our garlic farming when we are trying to achieve self-sufficiency,” the ministry said in a statement on March 12. Despite being certified as free of pests in China, samples of the shipment contained ditylenchus dipsaci, a microscopic worm that infects onions and garlic, the ministry said.

The nematology department at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln describes the worm as “one of the most devastating plant parasitic nematodes.” When quarantine officials reported the discovery to the importer, the garlic had already been sent to North Sumatra, the agriculture ministry said. The controversy even stirred a heated debate in parliament this week when a member of President Widodo’s ruling party called for a police investigation.

Soetrisno, the chief executive officer of PT Tunas Sumber Rejeki, the company that imported the garlic, could not immediately be reached for comment. The Chinese embassy in Jakarta declined to comment.

The garlic is currently being stored at a warehouse in Belawan Port, Sumatra, that has been sealed by police and the quarantine agency.

Banun Harpini, the head of quarantine at the agriculture ministry, said on Wednesday the importer would be blacklisted. It was not immediately clear what other penalties would be levied.

Indonesia plans to be self sufficient in garlic in 2019 by increasing the growing area for the crop by more than 70,000 hectares (173,000 acres), but this may be an ambitious target since last year the country imported 434,000 tonnes of garlic, more than ten times the amount grown domestically. This year, the agriculture ministry expects 392,000 tonnes will be imported, mostly from China and India.(rtr)

Moch. Arief Cahyono/Courtesy of Badan Karantina Pertanian/Handout via REUTERS

Police tape is seen around confiscated garlic from China at a warehouse in Belawan, Indonesia, March 13, 2018. Picture taken March 13, 2018.

12

International

Monday, March 19, 2018

BUSINESS Portugal’s flourishing tourism becomes economic mainstay

LISBON - Portugal’s tourism boom has made the industry one of the biggest contributors to the national economy and the largest employer, with almost 1 million direct and indirect jobs, the head of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) said. Portugal has long been popular for its beaches, historic sites and golf courses, but tourism has broken records in the past few years after government and businesses looked to the sector as an engine of growth after the 2011-14 debt crisis.

flights by low-cost carriers.

“It’s (Portugal) competitive. Do I see it as a cheap destination? No I don’t, but I think price is good, they need to maintain the quality,” said Guevara, who is from Mexico.

She added that “if they (Portugal) continue doing what they are doing, another 100,000 jobs will be created,” expanding what has become the country’s largest economic sector.

Unemployment in Portugal is around 8 percent but the

figure is much higher for younger people. The jobs total should reach 1.15 million by 2028, according to new WTTC estimates provided by Guevara.

The data showed that the total contribution of travel and tourism to Portugal’s GDP reached 17.3 percent, or 33.5 billion euros ($41.1 billion), last year. It is forecast to reach 20.5 percent of GDP in 2018. Other main sectors of the economy include construction, textiles and car production. (rtr)

Gloria Guevara, the president of the WTTC, told Reuters Portugal was already in the top five most-visited countries in Europe, and now “they should make sure that they continue as one of the top five”.

Portugal has been spared the bloody attacks seen in neighbouring European countries and benefited as violence and political unrest deter visitors from parts of the eastern Mediterranean and north Africa. With Portugal starting to muscle into the ranks of Europe’s most popular destinations, Guevara urged the country to adopt measures to avoid problems of so-called overtourism seen in cities including Barcelona.

That includes investment on infrastructure such as potentially a new Lisbon airport. Portugal’s tourism sector was set to grow further, thanks to a “very rich culture, amazing gastronomy,” and its geographic position with a long coastline and sunny climate.

PRICE AND QUALITY BALANCE

Portugal won the top destination spot in the 2017 World Travel Awards after the number of foreign tourists jumped 12 percent to 12.7 million. Including domestic tourists, the total is about 21 million. Guevara said Portugal’s focus on tourism had ensured that travellers and holiday companies had turned to the country, with many new hotels and frequent

Bali News

International

Wall Street nevertheless posted losses for the week, as shares struggled to weather a growing sense of turmoil in U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration and signs that protectionist policies could spur a trade war. Those fears took a back seat on Friday to economic data showing U.S. factory output jumped 1.1 percent in February.

“Today, there are not a lot of headlines out of Washington, so the focus is more on the economy,” said Keith Lerner, chief market strategist at SunTrust Advisory Services in Atlanta. Energy led the S&P with a 0.9 percent gain amid the spike in oil prices.

Retailer Walmart Inc added 1.9 percent, and Home Depot Inc half a percent, after the University of Michigan’s preliminary reading of consumer sentiment index rose more than expected to 102.0. Both of those gains were down, however, from higher climbs earlier in the day.

European shares lost ground for the week, despite a modest gain on Friday, driven by exchange operator NEX Group Plc’s 30-percent jump after a takeover offer from U.S.-based peer CME Group Inc. The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index rose 0.29 percent and MSCI’s gauge of stocks across the globe was about

flat. U.S. Treasury yields rose on the industrial data, and in anticipation of next week’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting, at which the U.S. central bank is expected to raise interest rates for the first time this year.

Benchmark 10-year notes last fell 6/32 in price to yield 2.8445 percent, from 2.824 percent late on Thursday. The 30-year bond last fell 10/32 in price to yield 3.077 percent, from 3.061 percent Thursday. The economic data, which bolstered the consensus expectation of a rate hike, also pushed the dollar up slightly against a basket of six currencies, with the dollar index rising 0.08 percent. The euro fell 0.15 percent to $1.2286.

But fears of political tensions did not disappear entirely, boosting the safe-haven Japanese yen, which strengthened 0.29 percent versus the greenback at 106.05 per dollar. The dollar had earlier fallen as low as 105.61 against the yen, the lowest since March 7. Sterling was last trading at $1.3944, up 0.06 percent on the day.1.3944rising 0.08 percent Euro zone bond yields kept falling after another European Central Bank policymaker warned that inflation in the bloc remained sluggish, a potential hurdle to the withdrawal of monetary stimulus. (rtr)

5

Tugun Karang, a Psychical Gateway to House Compound

According to Balinese people, especially the Hindus, every sacred building or shrine placed in the yard of a house or family temple must be respectively functioned according to its location and name. In addition, the sacred buildings are not only functioned, but also believed to be the abode of deities, ancestral spirits and other psychical beings. Moreover, the Tugun Karang shrine or often called as Pengijeng Karang is very often associated with the psychical and haunted thing.

Tugun Karang comes from the word tuhu meaning ‘to know’ or ‘have knowledge.’ Karang means ‘yard’ or house yard or human body.

Who can understand and know about one’s body well, and then he or she is the one who reaches the balance of physical and psychical realm. In the Hindu mysticism and philosophy, Tugun Karang is the ultimate mantra. Tugun is Tang, Ang and Ung; summarized into Karang, namely Ang and Ah. Ang and Ah are double syllables symbolizing the life and death.

Tugun Karang made by the elders of Balinese people is not just a sacred and simple building. It is a sanctified building made and put at a special location through magical and mystical calculation. Thus, the Tugun Karang serves as a pecalang or guardian in a house compound that keeps safety psychically.

Each sikut satak of home yard must have two kinds of shrine, namely the Pangulun Karang in the form of kemulan or three-

chambered shrine and Panunggun Karang functioned as mentioned before. According to I Gusti Ketut Dalem, a permanent lecturer at the Dharma Duta Faculty of the IHDN Denpasar, Tugun Karang shrine is the abode of Ida Ratu Sedahan Panunggun Karang, in charge of security guard in the house compound.

“Actually, he has existed before there are people taking advantage of the land area either intended for housing or moors. According to the elders, they have diverse manifestations according to the place and position. There is manifestation as Jero Dukuh or elder figure, elephant, horse, tiger and other forms,” he said.

Many people do not know that Tugun Karang is the gateway of psychical beings coming from psychical world to physical world.

Moreover, if a human is willing to enter the psychical dimension must seek permission and pass through this gateway. The deity abiding in the Tungun Karang shrine also plays an important role to protect residents from psychical attacks, such as witch.

However, lately many people are ignorant and do not believe in the power of psychical beings in Tugun Karang. The Kala Tattwa palm-leaf manuscript carries that Ida Bhatara Kala changes its form into Sedahan Karang / Sawah / Abian with the function as Pecalang, having the same function as Pangerurah, Penganggit Lawang or Patih in family temple or public temple. (kmb)

Kamasan Painting Comes with a Message of Life

IBP/kmb

Kamasan painting has been familiar in the ears of Balinese people. This artwork has long been a wealth of Klungkung district.

Apart from its classical appearance, this painting is rich in puppet and animal stories. It is really meaningful. At Kamasan village can be found many centers of the painting activities.

There are also galleries where a number of works created by the artists have been displayed since several years ago. It applies classic colors of red and brownish perfectly combined.

Some paintings offer a jungle feel following a pre-established pattern. They look very lively and beautiful to look at.

Oil rallies for weekly gain as S&P ends losing skid

NEW YORK - Oil prices finished the week at a gain after a big Friday rally, and U.S. stock indices ended flat-to-higher, to close a bumpy week on a high note. Crude prices had been on track for a weekly loss, but spiked on Friday as energy investors looked to cover short bets ahead of a televised interview Sunday by the U.S. news program “60 Minutes” with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The prince will be “comparing Iran’s Ayatollah to Hitler, and the battle in Ghouta, Syria, is ramping up,” said John Kilduff, partner at investment manager Again Capital in New York. “You can’t be short oil over the weekend with all that going on in the region.”

U.S. crude rose 1.72 percent to $62.24 per barrel and Brent was last at $66.12, up 1.54 percent on the day. During the session, Brent hit $66.42, its highest since Feb. 28. Gains on Wall Street also supported crude futures, which have recently been moving in tandem with U.S. stock indices.

The S&P 500, which was down 1.5 percent on the week through Thursday, avoided its first five-day losing streak of 2018, gaining 4.68 points, or 0.17 percent, to 2,752.01. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 72.85 points, or 0.29 percent, to 24,946.51, while the Nasdaq Composite added 0.25 points, or 0 percent, to 7,481.99.

Monday, March 19, 2018

IBP/kmb

The work is not just an expression of the art but there is a message of life. What is scratched is not a common thing. It presents a series of pictures depicting a number of characters contained in the story. One of the themes is heroic attractions on the battlefield. It’s like giving a moral message. It is adopted from various stories, such as Mahabharata and Ramayana epic.

Occasionally, the artists also express his idea inspired by animal or tantric tales.

The painter Mangku Muriati Mura said that in the midst of the art development, the appearance of other paintings is very possible. Nevertheless, he does not get

dissolved in that situation. His great desire to maintain the art is believed to have emerged since the kingdom era that will not fade over the times. The norms are not neglected. Everything is still followed. “We still preserve them all,” he said, not long ago.

This painting is not solely concerned with aesthetics but more than it, where it also offers strong philosophical values. His work is combined with religious elements or teachings quoted from the palm-leaf manuscripts. “We must understand the meaning, not just some scratches,” he said.

Another painter, Kadek Natha, explained that in harmony with the development of times, Kamasan paint coloring began to use acrylic because natural materials are increasingly difficult to obtain. However, the classic impression never fades. It remains to looks sharp and has divine inspiration. “Pere is one of natural dyes, a kind of stone obtained from Sakenan. Its color is yellowish brown, but now many painters have switched from this color,” he explained.

Profession as painter has been pursued since he was in elementary school. His works have been widely sold.

The price is fantastic and comparable to the complexity.

“There is a painting sold for IDR 9 million, even more.

The cheaper is also available,” he said. His paintings are no longer just scratched on canvas, but many of them have been used as hotel room ornaments. “Many hotels ask me to paint in classical style,” said Natha. (kmb)

4

Bali News

Monday, March 19, 2018

International

Ketut Purnawan often trusted to make beauty contest crown

BANGLI — Ketut Purnawan is one of the silversmiths in Bangli whose works have been recognized and known by many people. His handicraft products are often used in various arenas of beauty contests.

In 2011, for example, crown of his work was once contested in the selection of the Putri Pariwisata Indonesia (Miss Tourism of Indonesia).

When met at his home at Pande hamlet, Cempaga, on Thursday (Mar. 15), Purnawan said he has started to pursue silverwork business since 2004. At that time, the products he made were in the form of brooches and other silver jewelry in accordance with the market demand. His silverworks were not only sold in the local market but also in the markets outside the region and even overseas. To produce handicrafts, this owner of Prize Perak Bali at that time employed 54 workers.

However, since the emergence of alpaca jewelry, the market demand for homemade handicraft products continues to decline. Finally, Purnawan also must switch. He chose to make Balinese bridal jewelry targeting the market of bridal salons in Bali. “So far, my products do not only sell well in the local market but also attracted many people from transmigration areas such as Lampung, Sulawesi and Lombok,” he said. To promote his jewelry products, in addition to actively participating in exhibition, Purnawan also utilizes social media currently becoming a trend.

From his promotional results, around 2011 he got a trust

to make the crown of Putri Pariwisata Indonesia. The crown decorated with a variety of gemstones was made long enough up to two months. Besides, in the event of Jegeg-Bagus beauty pageant at the provincial and district level, he was also often believed to make the crown. “My last work was the making of crown for Miss Tabo (a beauty contest in the Sumatra region) around February,” he explained.

Purnawan admitted to be quite proud of the trust given to

him for the making of the crown. He also hoped to have the honor for the making of crown for other prestigious events at national and even international level.

Meanwhile, when asked about his efforts to maintain his work so as to still exist in the market, especially following the coming of Alpaca, Purnawan said he must always make innovation. According to him, if crafters do not continuously innovate they will quickly lose out in the business competition. (kmb40)

IBP/kmb40

Ketut Purnawan is one of the silversmiths in Bangli whose works have been recognized and known by many people.

About North Bali Airport

NGO hopes investors to be serious, not take people to ‘dream’ SINGARAJA — The discourse on the construction of the North Bali International Airport remains uncertain. It had faded but lately there was an interesting conversation in the community. The airport discourse is ‘at issue’ again amid the stages of gubernatorial election 2018 political event after there was an issue on the cancellation plan of central government to build the North Bali International Airport.

Since the government recommended conducting feasibility study of the North Bali Airport, there are two investors conducting the feasibility study. Both investors are PT Bandara Internasional Bali Utara (BIBU) Panji Sakti and PT Pembangunan Bali Mandiri (Pembari). BIBU itself has done feasibility study and touted to have proposed location determination permit to central government. From that study, BIBU designed the airport to be in the middle of the sea, while Pembari is touted more inclined to build airport on mainland. Amid the competition to seize the location certainty from central government, suddenly there are rumors if the airport project is canceled under the pretext that central government is more concerned with the development of toll

I Wayan Purnamek

IBP/kmb38

roads, shortcuts and Java-Bali ro-ro ship harbor.

Following the issue of cancellation, the officials and community leaders responded. Non-governmental organization (NGO) finally spoke out. In essence, the NGO activists in Buleleng reminded the government or companies to seriously review the airport project plan. If there is company having sufficient capital capability supported by complete studies, the location determination permit should be issued, not to make the situation similar to jokes associated with political interests.

Regional Coordinator of Jari Bali Simpul Buleleng, I Wayan Purnamek, recently stated that legally the airport development has been regulated in the national program and Bali Regional Regulation on Spatial Layout Planning (RTRW). Based on the regulation, the international airport will be built in Kubutambahan subdistrict. Based on this regulation, policy makers must be consistent to comply with the mandate of the regulation. However, if indeed the execution is not possible in the near future, he argued the government can delay the plan. In this delay, he encouraged the preparation of infrastructure development such as toll roads or shortcuts. With on this effort, the investors may be more prepared and serious to build the airport because the supporting infrastructure has been built earlier.

“I think the regulatory mandate is clear both in the central and provincial level including the district level that has agreed to develop the airport in Kubutambahan. This should be secured and policy makers must be consistent. Otherwise, it can be delayed first and poised with the preparation of infrastructure such as roads and shortcut,” he said.

On the other hand, Purnamek added the efforts of the two companies touted to get the location determination permit are natural. The permit can be given as long as the results of feasibility study are feasible. Similarly, the financial support of the company is necessary. To that end, the seriousness chiefly capital support is especially important to anyone who will invest in the airport development. He is worried if the company only grabbed the location determination permit and

Monday, March 19, 2018

International

after getting it the company does not start to build but ‘sell’ the permit to make a profit. If this happens, there is possibility that people are continuously taken to ‘dream’ that an airport will be built in their region.

“In our opinion, if the study is feasible and the company has capital, and these have been clear, I think the location determination should not fall into uncertainty, but must be started. What we do not want is now fighting over to get the location determination and then sold the permit to and fro.

So, people are taken to have a dream and made into political jokes, let alone ahead of gubernatorial election, legislative election as well as presidential election,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the Regent of Buleleng, Putu Agus Suradnyana (PAS), said the airport development plan in the region is not good to be done in terms of the discourse of government policy accompanied with political approach. On the contrary, he considered the airport development must be based on studies of technical data, calculations related to airport reliability and projected utilization. “If based on projection of tourism growth, the level of tourist visit to Bali is extraordinary. The government even sets a target of 20 million and this needs a new airport. If the Ngurah Rai Airport is not sufficient, it means that when I strive for something not based on policy and political perspective, but on the needs and projection of foreign and domestic tourists visit growth, so that it needs new airport in North Bali,” he said.

In addition, this regent having business background said the companies that will build the airport do not need to claim each other to get location determination permission from central government. Necessarily, the readiness of the company in terms of management, capital and capacity of the airport to be built must be well prepared. On that account, if the issue of cancellation is true, the regent assessed there is a new opportunity in the future after the political event that gives birth to a new leader. On that occasion, he will be fighting so the airport that has been long awaited by people of Buleleng can be realized. (kmb38)

13

China propaganda kicks into overdrive as “helmsman” Xi re-anointed president

BEIJING - With pictures of ecstatic citizens standing in applause, happily tearful legislators and even a social media game, China’s propaganda drive has kicked into high gear following Xi Jinping’s unanimous reappointment as president.

Xi’s face dominated the front pages of major Sunday newspapers, many carrying the same editorial from the ruling Communist Party’s official People’s Daily using language once more associated with Mao Zedong to say he was a “leader loved and respected by the people” and “helmsman of the country”.

“The voyage of a great country cannot do without a helmsman,” the paper wrote.

The military’s official People’s Liberation Army Daily pledged its loyalty to Xi in its editorial, saying his election would ensure the country’s long-term peace and stability.

Xi is also head of the armed forces, the world’s largest.

There was never any doubt that the largely rubber-stamp parliament would not have re-elected Xi as president on Saturday, especially following a constitutional amendment a week earlier which lifts presidential term limits, meaning Xi can stay on indefinitely.

While the amendment was passed with just six dissenters two no votes, three abstentions and one invalidated ballot - none of the roughly 3,000 legislators voted against Xi, a point made repeatedly in state media coverage.

State television showed images

from the floor in the Great Hall of the People of some legislators in tears after Xi swore an oath to the constitution following his re-election, a vote it described as a “solemn and sacred historic moment”.

In a moment of high political theatre, a copy of the constitution was carried onto the main stage by three members of the armed forces.

Other pictures on state media showed ordinary people standing in applause in front of television screens around the country at Xi’s re-appointment.

The government has presented this month’s parliament session and its controversial removal of presidential term limits as widely welcomed despite criticism that has evaded the censors and seeped onto Chinese social media at times.

Social media accounts of state media have leapt into action to offer their support, even as the comments sections have either been disabled or only show supportive remarks from users.

Late on Saturday, the People’s Daily WeChat account went live with a game where players have 20 seconds to press the screen as many times as they can to register a “like” for all the government’s achievements of the past five years, Xi’s first term in office.

The top-rated comment on Sunday morning was one user proudly saying he had pressed “like” 181 times. (rtr)

REUTERS/Mukesh Gupta

People shift a woman, who according to local media was injured in what they say was a ceasefire violation by the Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LOC) in Poonch district, towards a government hospital in Jammu, March 18, 2018.

Five Indians killed in cross-border shelling by Pakistani troops

SRINAGAR - Five members of an Indian family were killed and two injured by shelling from Pakistani troops on Sunday along the Line of Control, the de facto border between India and Pakistan, according to army and police officials.

REUTERS/Jason Lee TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (R) shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping, after he is voted as the premier for another term, at the sixth plenary session of the National People’s Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China March 18, 2018.

Both sides were engaging in heavy shelling despite a 15-year-old ceasefire between the nuclear-armed rivals in the area, the officials said.

Nine people were also wounded across the border in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir due to the shelling from India that began late Saturday night, Pakistani officials said on Sunday.

Tension has been running high since an attack on an Indian army camp in India-controlled Kashmir last month in which six soldiers were killed. India blamed Pakistan for the attack and said it would make its rival pay for the “misadventure”.

The South Asian neighbours have fought two of

their three wars since independence in 1947 over Muslim-majority Kashmir, which they both claim in full but rule in part.

Indian Defence spokesman Lt Col Devender Anand said on Sunday that Pakistani troops started the shelling around 7:45 in the morning.

“They are specifically targeting civilian areas,” Anand said. “Army troops retaliated strongly and effectively to silence Pakistani guns.”

Director General of Indian Police in Kashmir, S P Vaid said the five people were killed in the village of Devta Dhar when a shell hit the house of Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan.

Ramzan, 45, his wife Malka Bi, 45, and three sons - Muhammad Rehman, 19, Muhammad Rizwan, 18, and Muhammad Razaq, 8 all died, Vaid said.

Two of Ramzan’s daughters - Nooren Akhtar, 14, and Marin Akhtar, 7, were critically injured in the incident and were airlifted to a hospital in Jammu, Vaid said. (rtr)

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Monday, March 19, 2018

Soybean coffee of Kubu resident goes viral

Help overcome diabetes, searched by customers from Kalimantan

INSPIRED by difficult situation due to diabetes, there was an idea of dispensing a medicine in the form of soybean coffee. Unexpectedly, the results are beyond expectations. The soybean coffee is able to cure diabetes in an instant. Nowadays, soybean coffee blend made by the resident of Tianyar Tengah village, Kubu Sub-district, becomes viral after being uploaded in social media. Many customers from outside the region such as Lombok, Java and Kalimantan also get interested. What’s about the story?

24 hours in Valencia, Spain WITH around 300 days of glorious sunshine, a spectacular blend of traditional and avantgarde architecture, plus fabulous local cuisine, Valencia is fast becoming the capital of the weekend break.

Despite being Spain’s third largest city, Valencia has traditionally lagged behind Madrid and Barcelona for visitor appeal.

Not anymore. With around 300 days of glorious sunshine, a spectacular blend of traditional and avant-garde architecture, plus fabulous local cuisine and a vast number of direct flights from the UK, Valencia is fast becoming

the capital of the weekend break.

Must explore

One of the advantages of a trip to Valencia is being able to experience both city and beach. A wander around the streets of the old town, taking in the Gothic churches, grand palaces and shady squares such as Plaza de Virgen is a good place to start.

Don’t miss the Cathedral, which is home to the Holy Grail (allegedly) and the nearby silk exchange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A quick stroll from the main tourist drag, Ruzafa is Valencia’s hippest barrio (district). It is full

of art galleries, café bookshops and designer restaurants and it reveals a different side of the city; especially at night. Also great for night-time drinks and dinner is the neighbourhood of El Carmen. Jazz club, Jimmy Glass (Calle Baja, 28), is a city institution and Radio City (Calle Santa Teresa, 19) has an eclectic offering of films, gigs and exhibitions.

The beach isn’t just for sunworshippers. Las Arenas, La Malvarrosa and Patacona beaches are easily accessible from the city centre and a wander along the sands is the perfect pre-lunch appetiser. The restaurants that line the front are

some of the best places to sample paella or the local seafood. Do check they are open out of season and always book for a weekend lunchtime.

Must visit

2018 marks the 20th anniversary of The City of Arts and Sciences – a visually dramatic multi-complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava, comprising an aquarium, digital 3D cinema, science museum, opera house and sculpture garden.

It covers two kilometres at one end of the Turia Gardens – created on what was the riverbed of the Turia – so once you’ve finished

visiting take a walk through the gardens (mind the joggers!) back to the centre of the city.

Not for those with vertigo, arguably the best view of the city is from the lofty perspective of Mirador Ataneo, 50 metres above ground level. On the sixth floor of the same building, the Sky Bar and Restaurant is the ideal spot for a cocktail with your view.

Art lovers should head to IVAM, Valencia’s Museum of Modern Art. The gallery has a strong permanent collection, as well as some high profile temporary exhibitions, such as the Miro retrospective in 2018. (net)

The soybean coffee is made by I Gede Budi Widana, 47, a resident of Penginyahan hamlet who has been suffering from diabetes for many years. His condition is already very bad. Due to irregular life as a tourist transportation driver, his weight had reached 108 kg. He finally fell ill with very poor condition. All his teeth almost fell out with gums continuing to swell.

His eyesight also began to be myopic. Since he no longer holds it, he finally checked up to a doctor. “My doctor was surprised because at that time my blood sugar has reached 600. I was convicted of diabetes,” said Widana when met on Wednesday (Mar. 14).

He was given medicine by the doctor, but it was drunk for three days but did not give any changes.

Widana then admitted to resign.

Due to his sickness, he could not work and finally went home. One day while sleeping, he received a whisper that medicine for his illness is soybean coffee. Immediately he prepared it by himself, and drank it regularly. After two months

of regularly drinking soybean coffee, he gradually healed. Now, his life is back to normal.

After experiencing the efficacy of his coffee blend, he ventured to produce it manually at his home.

Then, he uploaded on social media.

Apparently the responses were beyond expectation. After tasting its own properties, the soybean coffee product was hunted by diabetics in Bali. The number of customer testimony about the usefulness made more and more people curious. In the past few weeks, the product was even sought after by customers from Lombok, Java to Kalimantan.

Widana said that in two days he processed about 50 kg of soybeans to be made into powder of soybean coffee. The soybeans selected for the making processes are kept secret to avoid product counterfeiting. Of the total 50 kg of soybeans, he gets 40 packs of processed soybean powder with a weight of 500 grams each. Many customers make him overwhelmed in meeting customer demand because the raw material in use is a special soybean

and it is not easily obtained. At his own village, there are indeed farmers cultivating it but the results are not enough. He has to find raw materials to Gianyar. “Now, I want to focus on developing this soybean coffee while opening job opportunities at his village,” he said.

The viral information on the soybean coffee product seems to be heard by the Karangasem Industry and Trade Agency. Head of the Agency, I Gusti Ngurah Suarta, with his staff even came down directly to the location of soybean coffee manufacturing.

He is deeply impressed by the finding of Widana. Ngurah Suarta encouraged him to continuously develop his invention and business. However, before the product gets more customers, he suggested submitting product permit first, including patent right of the product. “It’s also better to be examined by National Agency for Drug and Food Control (BPOM) to ensure the feasibility of consumption,” said Gusti Ngurah Suarta.

A legislator from the local village, I Nyoman Musna Antara, when accompanying the Karangasem Industry and Trade Agency Head at the location was also very enthusiastic with the results of the nutritious preparation. Such Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) must be supported and developed. He asked Karangasem Industry and Trade Agency could help facilitate the efforts of its residents, especially

those related to business license, patent right and BPOM feasibility test. It also includes the marketing process so that it can be widely known as the original and native product to Karangasem.

“This product of the native resident to Penginyahan is really amazing. Hopefully, in the future it can continuously grow and affect other communities in our region,” said this young politician of Golkar Party. (gik)

GIANYAR — The ogoh-ogoh (papier mache demon) parade in Gianyar district is ready to be held on Friday (Mar. 16). There is something unique in the ogoh-ogoh parade at Tengah hamlet, Blahbatuh village where the ogoh-ogoh will be carried

by dozens of Family Empowerment and Welfare (PKK) housewives. After parading the ogoh-ogoh at local hamlet, it will be resumed with joint ballet entitled Kala Ludra Somia.

Tengah hamlet chief, Ketut Ambara, explained on Wednesday (Mar.

14) that since several years ago the ogoh-ogoh at Tengah hamlet, Blahbatuh, is regularly paraded by women. “Last year, the ogoh-ogoh was paraded by female youngsters, while the male still keep accompanying with gamelan music,” he said.

Meanwhile, for this year the ogoh-ogoh will be paraded by PKK housewives. In total, there are 32 PKK housewives prepared to bear the ogoh-ogoh during the parade at the intersection of Blahbatuh village.

The weight of ogoh-ogoh is already arranged in such a way, so that it can certainly be carried by PKK housewives at local hamlet. “We have calculated the weight, so that it is made a set of carrying pole that fits for 32 bearers,” he explained.

When asked about the reason to mobilize women, he described it is for the sake of emancipation and minimizing the friction that can trigger public order and security disruption when parading ogoh-ogoh. “If paraded by women, they surely can

control it. Besides, women will also be cool, so every time seeing the ogoh-ogoh paraded people would be happy,” he said.

Ketut Umbara added that after parading ogoh-ogoh at the intersection of Blahbatuh village, it will be directly followed by a dance performance at T-junction of Tengah hamlet at local village. “Of totally 12 hamlets at Blahbatuh village, we get serial number 2. After the parade at the intersection, we will go directly eastward for the ballet in the central intersection,” he said.

He revealed that Kala Ludra Somia ballet will involve more than a hundred PKK housewives. The ballet is held on Friday night around 20:00. “In short, this ballet tells about the story of Goddess Uma after transforming into Durga followed by the change of Lord Shiva into Kala Rudra. Well, the romance of this couple is triggering a disaster in the world, so the gods ask Kala Rudra to return to the manifestation as Lord Shiva,” he said.

Nowadays, the making of ogohogoh at Tengah hamlet led by the Chief of sekaa taruna Bhina Karya (customary village youth club), I Nyoman Kurniawan Saputra, has completed, following the workmanship for approximately 1.5 months.

“The ogoh-ogoh is made by way of braiding, and it is ascertained to be eco-friendly because it does not use Styrofoam,” he explained.

Ketut Umbara with a number of community leaders of Tengah hamlet also intended to invite the Chairman of the House of Representatives to witness the ogoh-ogoh parade and the ballet at Tengah hamlet.

Unfortunately, their arrival to the parliament office on Wednesday was in vain because the people’s representatives based at Jalan Ngurah Rai, Gianyar, were in official visit out of the region. “Were were going to invite and ask for blessing to attend the ballet, but they (legislators of Gianyar—Ed) were not in the office,” he said. (kmb35)

IBP/gik

Soybean coffee blend made by the resident of Tianyar Tengah village, Kubu Sub-district, becomes viral after being uploaded in social media.

Ogoh-ogoh of Tengah hamlet paraded by PKK housewives

IBP/kmb35

The ogoh-ogoh (papier mache demon) parade in Gianyar district.

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Monday, March 19, 2018

15

Ngembak Gni and Banyupinaruh

Mass Pawintenan Dasa Bayu held at Watu Klotok Temple

SEMARAPURA —

REUTERS/David Gray

Laos’ Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith, Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo, Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen, Brunei’s Prime Minister and Sultan Hassanal Bokliah, Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, Australia’s Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Vietnam’s Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Philippines’ Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alan Peter Cayetano, Myanmar’s State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and Malaysia’s Prime Minister Najib Razak wave as they stand together during the Leaders Welcome and Family Photo at the one-off summit of 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Sydney, Australia, March 17, 2018.

Australia holds first ASEAN Summit Meeting in Sydney SYDNEY —

Australia held the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit at the International Convention Center, Sydney, Australia on March 16-18, 2018. This multilateral meeting brought together the leaders of the10 ASEAN member countries for the first time outside the ASEAN region.

“This meeting demonstrates Australia’s strong commitment to ASEAN and its good relations with Southeast Asian countries,” said Australian Ambassador to ASEAN, Jane Duke, on Thursday (Mar. 15) in Darling Harbor area, Australia.

Leaders of the ASEAN countries were scheduled to attend the Special Summit Meeting namely, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. Meanwhile, the Philippine President, Rodrigo Duterte, was ascertained not to attend.

Australia which has become first external partner of the ASEAN group of countries since 40 years ago wanted to make this meeting a moment to strengthen relations considering that Australia is geographically close to the ASEAN region. Geographically,

Australia feels the need to work together in facing similar challenges and threats with ASEAN countries.

The event was scheduled to be opened on Friday (Mar. 16) by Australian Prime Minister, Malcom Turnbull. The ASEAN Summit will mark a new era in economic cooperation, political dialogue and public relations between Australia and ASEAN countries to build a fastgrowing contemporary and insightful partnership.

ASEAN as one of the Australia’s largest trading partners is expected to achieve mutual commitments

and agreements on two main topics, namely business-economy and counter-terrorism.

According to Duke, Australia and the ASEAN region face the threats that cannot be denied by one country. Protecting citizens from incoming hazards of criminals and terrorists should be done by sharing intelligence, expertise and knowledge. “This will be a valuable forum for private sector and governments to work together in addressing key challenges and fostering the prosperity of each country,” she explained.(kmb)

Ngembak Gni and Banyupinaruh Day on Sunday (Mar. 18) in a series of Nyepi and Sarawasti Day are filled with Pawintenan Dasa Bayu at Watu Klotok Temple, Tojan village, Klungkung district. The ceremony held by Griya Jero Taman Harum, Payangan, Gianyar, can be followed by all Hindus as well as pleading for the safety and welfare of life.

Chairman of the Committee, Ida Mangku I Dewa Gede Ambara Putra Manacita, revealed on Thursday (Mar. 15) that Nyepi and Saraswati Day this year falling coincidently is a rare phenomenon every 153 years. Nyepi has timing based on lunar calendar while Saraswati based on pawukon.

This encounter symbolizes Purusha and Pradhana. “Nyepi day is meditation time of Ida Sang Hyang Brahma Prajapati, while Saraswati Day of Goddess

Saraswati. Therefore, the Hindus need to interpret this and we organize pawintenan dasa bayu en masse,” he explained.

In this ceremony, 33 higher priests will perform puja amerta starting at 06:00 local time. This is opened to general public.

The attendance is enough to bring along canang or daksina pejati oblation. Donation can be made pursuant to sincerity. “We hope the Hindus can promote together the sradha and bhakti (faith and devotion) as well as plead for salvation,” he said.

He further submitted that other than relating to self-purification, this first ceremony is also implemented as a way to ease the burden of people. If carrying out individually, the cost is quite large. “This ceremony is the highest level. By this way, many followers can participate. Hopefully, this kind of ritual can be implemented elsewhere to provide sacred vibration,” he said. (kmb45)

Bali becomes the center for international arbitration and mediation

DENPASAR —

Bali is not only known as the Island of the Gods or international tourist destination.

However, it has also become a center for international arbitration and mediation following the establishment of the Bali International Mediation and Arbitration Center (BIMAC) born from the idea of a number of international arbitrators.

“The selection of Bali as a venue to resolve the problem of arbitration and mediation is an agreement from the founders coming from various countries,” said BIMAC’s President, Naz Juman Gulinazaer, when meeting the governor of Bali on Thursday (Mar. 15).

Naz Juman Gulinazaer expected the government especially in Bali to support the existence of the organization.

BIMAC is said to have the tagline ‘Find Resolution and Paradise.’ “There are many international arbitrators getting interested to join us but we have to do the selection to get the

best,” he added.

One of the BIMAC founders, Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Rahmadi Supancana, said the birth of the BIMAC is the idea of several international arbitrators based in Germany, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Indonesia. According to him, BIMAC will focus on resolving international law disputes.

Governor of Bali, Made Mangku Pastika, said that Bali had gained a lot of trust to host international conferences and be the home to international organizations. When considered as the right place to resolve the problem and reach an agreement, it is a form of international trust to Bali.

“Based on the experience, vibration, comfort and security, the Island of Bali is perfect for resolving problems and making decisions,” he said while hoping the center for arbitration and international mediation will make the image of Bali in the international eye increasingly better. (kmb32)

 Founder : K.Nadha,  General Manager :Palgunadi Chief Editor: Gugiek Savindra  Editors:Agus Toni, Daniel Fajry, Mawa, Sueca, Sugiartha, Yudi Winanto Denpasar: Dira Arsana, Giriana Saputra, Subrata, Sumatika, Asmara Putra. Bangli: Suasrina, Buleleng: Dewa kusuma, Gianyar: Manik Astajaya, Karangasem: Budana, Klungkung: Dewa Farendra. 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

Dim Sum Galore on Sundays at Happy Chappy Any plans after Nyepi Day? If you’re craving for Chinese food, then head over to Happy Chappy Chinese for a sumptuous Sunday Brunch with your loved ones. Be prepared to devour delectable Cantonese-style Chinese Food such as Salted Prawns in Egg Yolk and Kung Pao Chicken with Cashew Nuts. Every Sunday, enjoy delicious and extensive Dim Sum menu including Prawn Har Gow, Xiaolongbao and Fried Wontons, available from 11am - 3pm.

Accompany your meal with fresh and delicious Bloody Marys and your day is complete!

Happy Chappy is a convivial family-style Chinese restaurant inspired

by a blend of traditional Chinese culture with a hip, modern influence.

Make no mistake: Happy Chappy’s whimsical take on upscale Chinese dining is tempered by one of the finest, state-of-the-art kitchens serving the most delicious traditional Cantonesestyle Chinese food in Bali. Guests are delighted by Happy Chappy’s inviting and contemporary environment with moderately priced, yet thoughtfully plated dishes.

Our Chefs, have worked tirelessly recreate favorite Cantonesestyle dishes that westerners know and love. The food is simple and uncomplicated, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients – each of

which evokes a nostalgia for childhood Chinese food delights. Family style servings make sharing part of the Happy Chappy experience – from the classic Honey Prawns to a spectacular Peking Duck. Drive-up take-away is also available so that guests may enjoy a delicious meal at their hotel or villa.

With a total seating capacity for 160 diners, Happy Chappy features a large and inviting dining area perfect for groups, families or couples.

The old-shanghai inspired décor is contrasted by pops of modernity and elegance. Areas of the dining room can be configured to create additional privacy for large parties

celebrating life’s special events.

The Fortune Pond, overseen by a life-sized statue of Happy Chappy, invites guests to drop in a coin and make a joyful wish to accompany their incredible meal.

The Dragon’s Den bar is a chic lounge dripping in deep reds, evoking a feeling of mysterious decadence. This Chinese undergroundinspired bar features one of Bali’s largest live fish tanks to add an element of mystique to this mischievous side of Happy Chappy. Guests can indulge in an intimate conversation while sipping on a hand-crafted cocktail. The large outdoor patio area is perfect for enjoying Bali’s

gorgeous evenings under the stars.

Its warm and upscale ambiance is the perfect place to enjoy a signature dim sum platter with group of friends.

Unique weekly specials and promotions keep guests returning multiple times during their visit to Bali and the quality and consistency of the food ensure that Happy Chappy is a must on any future trip.

At Happy Chappy, we don’t just offer Chinese food. We provide memorable moments of Happiness.

Happy Chappy Express Berawa | Jl. Pantai Berawa No. 888, Bali | Ph: +62 361 934 5811 | www.happychappychinese.com.

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16 Pages Number 73 10th year

Price: Rp 3.000,-

Monday, March 19, 2018

At 55, ‘French spiderman’ keeps climbing world’s skyscrapers

Adult-film actress Stephanie Clifford, also known as Stormy Daniels.

REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz/File Photo

Trump lawyer seeks $20 million damages from Stormy Daniels -filing

WASHINGTON - A law firm representing U.S. President Donald Trump and the corporation that paid porn actress Stormy Daniels $130,000 in what she called hush money over an alleged affair with Trump said in a court filing that it was seeking at least $20 million in damages for multiple violations of a nondisclosure agreement.

In a filing with the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California made public on Friday, the Blakely Law Group also asked for a lawsuit by Daniels that seeks to nullify the agreement to be moved to a federal district court from a county court.

Brent Blakely, who filed the action on behalf of Essential Consultants LLC and Trump, did not reply to a request for comment.

Under the nondisclosure agreement, Daniels, whose legal name is Stephanie Clifford, could be subjected to

a $1 million penalty each time the deal was broken.

Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Trump that began in 2006 and lasted several months.

Michael Cohen, a private lawyer for Trump, has said he paid Daniels $130,000 of his own money during the 2016 presidential election campaign. Cohen has not explained why he made the payment and has not said if Trump was aware of it.

Attorney Michael Avenatti, who represents Daniels, said on Friday, “This is simply more of the same bullying tactics from the president and Mr. Cohen. They are now attempting to remove this case in order to increase their chances that the matter will ultimately be decided in private arbitration, behind closed doors, outside of public view and scrutiny.

“To put it simply - they want to hide the truth from the American people. We will oppose this effort at every turn.” (rtr)

PARIS - Alain Robert, sometimes known as the “French Spiderman” for climbing skyscrapers world worldwide, is still defying gravity at the age of 55.

He scaled the summit of the fourth-tallest building in Paris’ modern business district on Wednesday after evading security officers who had thwarted an earlier attempt.

A hobby that started at 11 years old has taken Robert to more than 150 skyscrapers around the world, including Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the Eiffel Tower, and the Sydney Opera House.

“For me, climbing is a passion, it’s a way of life,” he said.

It took Robert just over an hour to scale to the top of the 187-metre

(614-feet) high Tour Total, which houses some of the offices of the French energy group of the same name.

He has accomplished the feat twice in the past.

Using only climbing shoes and chalk, he clung to the window ledges to lift himself up past the tower’s 48 floors, cheered on by office workers-turned-spectators in La Defense.

Robert had first tried to climb the Engie building on Wednesday morning, but security guards quickly came to remove him.

He often climbs without permission and has been arrested several times. In 2008, he scaled the New York Times building to unfurl a banner on global warming, and was arrested by police. (rtr)

REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File photo

President of South Africa Jacob Zuma gestures to his supporters at the 54th National Conference of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa December 16, 2017.

South Africa hits fallen Zuma with arms deal corruption charges

PRETORIA - Former South African president Jacob Zuma is to face corruption charges over a $2.5 billion arms deal, prosecutors said, as a years-old scandal returned to haunt him within weeks of his fall from power. It was a stunning judicial development on a continent where political “Big Men” rarely have to face their accusers in court.

Alain Robert

IBP/net

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Monday, March 19, 2018

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Zuma, who was forced to resign by his ruling African National Congress (ANC) last month, was at the centre of a 1990s deal to buy European military kit that has cast a shadow over politics in South Africa for years. Chief state prosecutor Shaun Abrahams told a media conference on Friday that Zuma’s attempts to head off the charges hanging over him for more than a decade had failed.

The 75-year-old denied all the allegations against him, Abrahams added. “After consideration of the matter, I am of the view that there are reasonable prospects of successful prosecution of Mr Zuma on the charges listed in the indictment,”

Abrahams said. “I am of the view that a trial court would be the most appropriate forum for these issues to be ventilated and to be decided upon.” Zuma will face 16 charges relating to 783 instances of alleged wrongdoing, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesman Luvuyo Mfaku said. Twelve are of fraud, one of racketeering, two of corruption and one of money laundering. There was no immediate comment from Zuma and it was not immediately clear when the former leader might go to trial.

Zuma was deputy president at the time of the arms deal. Schabir Shaikh, his former financial adviser, was found guilty and jailed

in 2005 for trying to solicit bribes for Zuma from a French arms company. The 16 counts were filed against Zuma but then dropped by the NPA shortly before he successfully ran for president in 2009.

Since his election nine years ago, his opponents have fought a lengthy legal battle to have the charges reinstated. Zuma countered with his own legal challenges.The ANC said it had confidence in the country’s criminal justice system and the independence of the judiciary.

“We continue to assert the inalienable right of all in our country, including Comrade Jacob Zuma, to be presumed innocent until and if proven guilty,” the party said in a statement.

“A VICTORY,” SAYS OPPOSITION

Mmusi Maimane, the official opposition leader and head of the Democratic Alliance party, said:

“This is a victory for all who have fought for years for Jacob Zuma to face accountability for his crimes.

That accountability starts now.”

Pierre de Vos, a law professor at the University of Cape Town, said Zuma could seek a court order to block the case against him by asking for “a permanent stay of prosecution so that the court decides whether he is capable of getting a fair trial. That could be done of course, that is a possibility”.

In 2016, Zuma said a fouryear investigation he set up while president had found no evidence of widespread bribery, corruption or fraud in the selection of bidders to supply the arms. Nor had it found evidence that officials were bribed in an attempt to influence the deal.

The former South African leader was beset by scandal during his tenure as president.

He survived several motions of no-confidence in parliament

and the Constitutional Court said he breached the law by ignoring an order to repay some of the $16 million in state funds spent on renovating his home. Zuma has since repaid some of the money, as ordered by the court.

The former president has also been implicated by South Africa’s anti-corruption watchdog in a 2016 report that alleges the Gupta family, billionaire friends of Zuma, used links with him to win state contracts. An inquiry on the influencepeddling allegations is due to start soon. The Guptas and Zuma have denied any wrongdoing. (rtr) 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.