Mejuah-juah, Enjoy 10 Favorite Places in Tanah Karo

Hot Spring Debuk-debuk

Karo Regency is a regency of North Sumatra, Indonesia, situated in the Barisan Mountains. The regency covers an area of 2,127.25 square kilometres and according to the 2010 census it had a population of 350,479. 60.99% of the regency is forested.

Mejuah-juah is a special expression of the Karo community, a kind of Halo greeting when it first met. However, Mejuah-juah, also spoken on various occasions, in the mood or sorrow.

Tanah Karo is in the highlands, so the air is cool enough. If you want to travel to Tanah Karo, there are many worthy destinations to try. Here are 10 tourist attractions in Tanah Karo:

1. Lau Debuk-debuk Hot Spring
This tourism object is a hot spring bath that springs from the belly of the earth, containing sulfur elements, can treat itchy itch and it is usually made as a substitute for a sauna bath.

2. Hot Mountain Spirit Mountain
This tourism object is a professionally managed hot water bath in the form of a pool of different temperatures in accordance with the wishes of tourists. This springs are sourced from the stomach of the earth and contain sulfur elements that can treat itchy itchy diseases.

3. Sikulikap Waterfall
This Waterfall has a fall height of 30 m and distance from the Berastagi monument to this tourist attraction is about 11 km. Surrounded by a tropical jungle where Gibon hangs occasionally shouting around and around this location there are squirrels, crows, phytones and colorful butterflies. Along the streets of this tourist attraction can be enjoyed grilled and boiled corn. To reach this place can use large or small buses to Medan or Berastagi and down the stairs from the road on the Karo-Deli Serdang border.

4. Sipiso-piso Waterfall
The waterfall has an altitude of 120 m and is located on the beautiful panorama of Lake Toba, the hills, the blue Samosir island, the paddy field and the fields. Distance from the city of Berastagi to this tourist attraction is 35 Km and can use the bus size small and large. These attractions are located in the District of Merek, located close to other attractions (such as Tongging and Lake Toba), thus potentially being developed as a tourist area (especially nature tourism).

6. Bukit Gundaling
These attractions are located in Berastagi and Merdeka Subdistrict, this area can be developed into the first stop for tourists visiting the Karo District, as it can be seen from the hill we can see the panoramic view of Berastagi City as a whole, Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung.

7. Lake Lau Kawar
This lake has an area of about 200 Ha enclosed by the mountainous nature of tropical rainforest and the lakeside of 3 Ha as a camping site. For tourists who are adventurous, this object can perform rock climbing and climb to the summit of Mount Sinabung through the wilderness. Distance from Berastagi City to this tourist attraction is 27 Km and can use four-wheeled vehicles through several villages and agricultural land (Agro Wisata).

8. Mount Sibayak
Sibayak volcano is active in its location above the altitude of 2.172 m above sea level. The climbs pass through tropical jungles and challenging cliffs and on the summit of the mountain there is an expanse of camping grounds. From the top of the mountain it is seen that the craters are still actively releasing magma and beautiful and charming scenery. Distance from Berastagi City to the starting point of the climb from Jaranguda Village 1.5 Km from King Berneh Village 15 Km. The length of the climb is estimated to be about 2 to 3 hours.

9. Mount Sipiso-piso
Sipiso-piso mountain tourism area can be used for water sports, the location for parachuting, where the start location starts from the peak of Sipiso-piso mountain and the location to land on the edge of Lake Toba Tongging. This location has long been known as a paragliding water sports location. The location is 34 km from Berastagi. The view on this site is very interesting.

10. Doulu tackle
This Doulu observation is located not far from Berastagi city. From this place we can see the beautiful scenery of Bandar Baru and Medan at night while enjoying the corn and boiled corn. We can also see monkeys around this place. To get to this place can use two and four wheeled vehicles.

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Mr Dedi Mulyadi, The Jokowi’s Incarnation

Mr Dedi Mulyadi between marhaens (Liputan6.com)

It's been a while since I've watched Dedi Mulyadi's movements, the Purwakarta Regent who is now preparing for a political battle for West Java 1. Of course, I must assert first that I have never met or known Kang Dedi. This assertion is important so that what I want to convey remains objective, so as to escape allegations of multiple interpretations. But obviously, as a citizen of West Java, I am concerned to participate in determining the next West Java leader, in the Governor and Vice Governor Election in June 2018.

Yes, his name is Dedi Mulyadi, a very typical Sundanese called Kang Dedi. His political career as the Regent of Purwakarta, in my observation, has been quite successful so far. The indicator of success can be seen from various aspects. Such as sectors of education, infrastructure, health, and other sectors that all received appreciation from many parties.

Even so, Kang Dedi is not without obstacles or protests when he tries to bring a sense of diversity in the Land of Sunda. However, therein lies the strength of Kang Dedi's principle, which always holds the local wisdom but does not forget the contributions of figures outside of Sunda.

But what I admire most about Kang Dedi is how he treats his society. Look, on various occasions, he mingles with the people by visiting the pockets of the population he considers to require special attention. This style is certainly familiar to us, just like what was done by Joko Widodo, from since Mayor of Solo, Governor of DKI Jakarta, even to become a President.

Not surprisingly, Dedi Mulyadi was also awarded as the Democratic Leader of The Soekarno Center, given by the Board of Trustees of The Soekarno Center, Sukmawati Soekarnoputri, July 2016. Interestingly, this award was only given twice, which was first awarded to President Joko Widodo when he served as Governor of DKI Jakarta.

As an adherent to the teachings of Soeharno-style marhaenism, I judge Kang Dedi's diligent acts of visiting marhaen, very touching. Such a form of concern is an act that only a Marhaenis can afford. He does not care about his status as an important official, because his job is only a way to smooth the aspirations he wants to achieve. Not the other way around, that is persuading the little people to smooth his personal ambition.

Dedi is more interesting as the Chairman of Golkar Party at DPD West Java. Although he is a Golkar cadre, but understanding the development he made, is a sense of PDIP. However, as he once said, marhaenism does not belong to one class only, but belongs to the Indonesian nation. "Although I am the Chairman of Golkar of West Java, I am a Marhaen, I run Marhaenisme in the applicative pattern, both as Chairman of Golkar and as Regent of Purwakarta," Kang Dedi said firmly when giving a mandate in the Regional Golkar Party Congress of Indramayu Regency, September 2016 .

I totally agree with Kang Dedi's opinion. The marhaenismic teachings that Soekarno sparked were the assets of the nation that should be guided without having to pay attention to the background of his political party. Moreover, as it is known, the name marhaen was first called Soekarno after a visit to South Bandung. Marhaen is the name of a Sundanese farmer who owns farmland and cultivates the land for his benefit. In other words, the marhaen is a figure that capable by standing on his own feet.

The more perfect when the PDIP finally decided to support Kang Dedi as the Candidate of West Java Governor, by establishing a coalition with Golkar. Although in fact, PDIP is the percentage of seats in the West Java Legislative Assembly, eligible to submit its own candidate, as in the last election of the Governor of DKI Jakarta. However, PDIP I think has made the right decision. Although Kang Dedi is a cadre of Golkar, but what he has done so far as the Regent of Purwakarta has in fact fulfilled the principles in the teachings of marhaenism.

In conclusion, allow me to mention Kang Dedi as Jokowi's incarnation.

Greetings Marhaen

This article also published in my Bahasa Indonesia blog

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Silangit Airport Changed Name: Sisingamangaraja or Nommensen?

Jokowi at Silangit Airport

Silangit Airport, located in Siborong-borong, North Tapanuli, North Sumatra Province is proposed to be renamed Sisingamangaraja Airport. The change of name is an effort of appreciation to Sisingamangaraja XII, a national hero from North Tapanuli.

Silangit Airport has so far contributed much to the ease of flight of Tapanuli and surrounding communities, as it no longer has to go through Kuala Namu Airport in Deli Serdang. More specifically, Silangit Airport is projected as an airport that directly supports Lake Toba tourism. With the Silangit Airport, tourists only need an hour to get to Lake Toba. Different when landing at Kuala Namu, which must travel overland 4-5 more hours.

Silangit Airport whose name changes have been submitted to President Jokowi, in the near future will be decided. Whether the proposed Sisingamangaraja Airport will be accepted or choose another name such as Nommensen Airport. Nommensen Airport refers to the German missionary DR IL Nommensen who has contributed a lot to human development in Tapanuli.

Now, the decision is in the hands of President Jokowi.

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Feel The Night Market, Marhaens

Night Market at Indonesia (Private)

At the end of the week like this, it's easy to talk about how the marhaens (lower class society) fill the day. Malls and other shopping centers let monopolized the pockets of thick pockets. Marhaen may only enjoy suburban entertainment. What is that?

The Night Market, wherever it comes from is still one of the prima donna of the middle to bottom to spend the night. No need to bother because they have to bring a lot of money, just enough satisfied kok. The Night Market, in addition to offering children's games as a main attraction, also presents other complementary merchandise such as selling children's clothing, hats, shoes, and various typical snacks of the marhaen.

In the Night Market, many children's games arena is also a top class dream. The difference, the atmosphere offered of course different. For the lower classes, there is no music that softly softens and adapted to the latest child's songs. There, there is only a child's song bang that is entirely old. That's all that's played every night.

Then, what about the tariff? As usual, just spend less than 10 thousand rupiah for one game arena. Compare with high class like Dufan, which can reach 40-100 thousand rupiah per round arena game. Of course there are many more convenience obtained by the marhaen if you want a small vacation in the Night Market.

The Night Market, though looks simple, still offers entertainment for the lower classes. Their presence is always anticipated, at least as antidote to enter the bourgeoisie. Happy holiday, marhaen.

This article also published on my Bahasa Indonesia blog

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This Is Why Batak Admires German

The arrival of DR IL Nommensen to Tanah Batak at 1862 has changed the paradigm of the Batak people frontally. From the previously closed to education, it turns into being very concerned about the importance of education. That is the reason why Batak people are always synonymous with educated society.

Nommensen, a Protestant missionary from Germany indeed succeeded in replacing the Batak people's point of view while still animist. HKBP Church is a milestone in the establishment of a new history for Batak people who until now have entered the age of more than 150 years. As a church institution, HKBP plays a significant role in changing the Batak people's awareness of the importance of education and health. That means, the church really does not only play a role in mere spirituality, between man and his God. But more than that, the church is also open to the importance of self-development through education.

Closely related education with HKBP church was already proven when the Batak people have many successful to become officials, businessmen, military, and influential politicians in Indonesia. This is where the early rise of Batak fanaticism of the Germans, Nommensen's birthplace. For the Batak people, Nommensen is a very phenomenal and very important figure.

Nommensen died in 1918 and was buried in Sigumpar, Tobasa Region, North Sumatra Province. The Batak tribe as a whole accepted the gospel through its ministry, so Nommensen was nicknamed "the apostle of the Batak".

The love for Nommensen eventually spread to all Germans. So if you are a German want to visit the Land of Batak, almost certainly you will be warmly welcomed by the people there. In fact, Batak people in general always idolized the German National Football Team in the European Cup or World Cup.

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Enjoy, Top Five Favorite Places in Jakarta

Gold Snail Cube (Keong Mas) at TMII

Jakarta as the capital of Indonesia is not only a business and government center. Jakarta also presents a variety of sights that are highly recommended to visit. From a number of tourist attractions, here are five attractions that you should try.

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII)

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is a wealth of miniature culture of Indonesia from Sabang to Merauke. This is an area of cultural diversity and tribal charms that live in the archipelago of Indonesia. You can see a variety of custom home platforms, custom clothes, sacred objects specific tribes, for art and cultural dance from 34 provinces in Indonesia.

TMII is among the attractions in Jakarta with the widest place. TMII has as many art and cultural museums for students. For example, handicrafts and engineering museums, reptile museums, bird museums, and “gold snail” theater. At specific times in TMII, a national cultural arts festival is held with a specific theme.

Taman Impian Jaya Ancol

Ancol is a popular tourist spot in North Jakarta since its establishment in at 1966. Ancol bay city or also known as the dreaming park of Ancol Jaya, is the largest and very interesting of recreational park in Jakarta. Ancol consists of a golf course, an amusement park, a hotel, a nightclub, as well as a swimming pool. Visiting Ancol can provide laughter and happiness in unison with friends and family with various recreation areas that can be visited.

Tourist attractions in Ancol Dreamland:

1. World Fantasy (Dufan). Tourist attractions with over 40 rides games and attractions.
2. Atlantis Water Adventure. Five hectares of large waterfront theme parks of Atlantis mythology with wave pool, waterfall pool, slides, children's pool and restaurant.
3. Ancol Bay City.
4. Sea World. One of Southeast Asia's largest aquariums displays a pool for crocodiles and sharks, and a game pool for companions of the ocean.
5. Art Market. An art market in its 25-year journey has become a center for crafts and other art products, as well as a center for artists to directly create and sell their products.
6. Executive Golf Fun, 18 holes of Ancol's international beach golf course.
7. Beach. In the resort you can find Carnival beach and Beach Festival.

Monas (National Monument)

Monas is among the city's entertainment centers. National monument is an icon city of Jakarta, located at front of Presidential Place. The top of the Monas is gold-plated and bright-lit at night. So it is often to be a gathering area of people of varying social status. Often used as an art center and cultural festival events that can be enjoyed by the general public for free.

Inside the monument complex, there is a museum of Gajah Mada. This museum has a wealth of art and culture from the historic properties of Indonesia. Ancient objects found in Indonesia, many of which are stored in Monas. Monas is also often used to host national and international sporting events.

Ragunan Zoo

Ragunan Zoo is the first zoo in Indonesia. The zoo was founded in 1864. Jakarta provincial government donated 30 hectares of place called house to zoo. Governor Jakarta, Mr Ali Sadikin officially inaugurated the wildlife park of Ragunan on 22 June 1966. The 140-hectare zoo, with a diverse collection of 295 species and 4040 specimens.

Old Town

The old town is also known as Old Batavia. It is a small place which has an area of 1,3 km. The old city is an area that remains strong with the history and culture of the Dutch and China. The old city features an antique situation typical of the old city with many buildings and historic museums. You can also enjoy marine tourism, shopping, historic and cultural tourism, recreation and entertainment, as well as tours with special interests.

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The Other Side of The Solo City

Solo Batik Carnival 2017 (Private)

This is actually not planned journey. We was apparently greeted by Solo Batik Carnival (SBC) 2017, which lasted for three days (July 14-16) 2017. From the name, we are still first set foot to Solo of course think SBC will present the most complete batik exhibition at an affordable price as well. In fact, the court of Vastenburg Castle (just called Benteng), Solo as the location of the event center, only two merchants peddling batik clothes. The rest, dominated by culinary traders who line neatly on both sides of the stage. Uniquely, although the theme of batik, court Benteng also enlivened by booths that offer residential homes. That's the atmosphere of the first day SBC.

Well, the long-awaited arrived, according to the announcement that we heard on the first day. On the second day, precisely on Saturday, a number of streets in Solo were diverted, to provide road access to the entourage from various regions in Java featuring the best batik. Interestingly, batik is displayed not just batik but modified by displaying a number of puppet figures. Actually I do not know exactly whether the model of men and women dressed in batik wear like a puppet character or not. What is clear, they look dashing and beautiful wearing batik, complete with additional accessories. More than half an hour for the Solo march to arrive and end the convoy in the Benteng grounds.

As for the third day, we no longer attend the event. However, from the announcement we received, the last day's event will be filled with a number of band performances or dance studio which is dominated by students in Solo City, West Java. In addition, SBC 2017 is the tenth event, routinely held annually. But that was, SBC is not a batik exhibition, but more to the cultural carnival featuring batik as one of the characteristics of Solo. Meanwhile, if you want to batik shopping, available in many Klewer Market and other batik centers not far from the Citadel/The empire of Surakarta.

Chicken Soup Mixed Rice

Do not think chicken soup (soto ayam) in Solo just like in Jakarta and surrounding areas. Not a matter of taste but how to serve it. In Solo, chicken soup that is served already at once mixed with rice. In other words, tasting chicken soup in Solo is only served in a bowl, without a plate as a place of rice. This is different from chicken soup in Jakarta and surrounding areas which usually separates chicken and rice soup. Unfortunately, I do not have a collection of photos from this chicken soup.

Solo Without Urban Transportation

Traveling around Solo still feels good because it is still far from the traffic jam. Even if stuck, still in the stage can be understood, especially in the morning and evening. However, it could also congestion in Solo is almost nonexistent because urban transportation (angkot) is not there. Instead, we can enjoy a taxi with xenia or avanza type vehicles, which can now be ordered online. Taxis in Solo have teamed up with the two most current online taxi providers.

In addition, it is from Adi Soemarmo Airport, Damri buses are also available for a long route. The difference, the Damri stop in Solo is similar to TransJakarta bus stop. However, the halt is small. In fact, at some bus stops, there are only small stairs to make it easier for passengers to board a bus.

King Jokowi's Hat

From the taxi driver we were traveling to, I asked, the building on the street resembles the dome what's its name? "It's a royal hat as a substitute for the Welcome Monument, built by Mr. Jokowi when he was still Mayor, so now he became King (President of Indonesia)," he said. Jokowi King's hat is unique, because the umbrella of the street below.

That was a glimpse of our three days of observation and experience in Solo. Of course there are still many locations that have not been explored yet. A side other than Solo City, the village of H.E Mister Jokowi.

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