December 2016 | Vol. 3 NEW SCHEDULE SAVE THE DATE!
WOMEN: Torchbearers and Pillars of Hope Towards Achieving the Global Goals (SDGs) Date: August 23-25, 2017 Venue: Jakarta, Indonesia REGISTER NOW! (Limited seats available) www.wggathering.com December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Save The Date: WGG 2017 Message from the Patron 3 Message from the Patron Dear Friends and Readers, 4 From the Editor’s Desk hallenges in one’s existence come in 5 REWIN: Harnessed Spirit of the different forms and degrees. For Wadah Indonesian Youth Foundation, I could claim that this year C2016 is the most challenging year for us to date! 8 Effishent Indonesia: A Partnership of Enactus Mannheim with Wadah Yes, 2016 is challenging not in terms of the Foundation difficulty that we have faced in serving our communities but challenging in the sense 11 Wadah Malaysia: A Charity Gala that we have received a responsibility which is Dinner in Kuala Lumpur greater than what we have imagined. 15 SpotLight Ball in Berlin - Receiving the confirmation of a Special Indian Indonesian Experience Consultative status from the United Nation’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) last July 2016 is a huge responsibility - a responsibility that we 20 Education: Wadah Foundation’s owe to all the communities that we serve. We know that there will be much Focus in 2017 more challenges ahead of us but we completely believe there’s nothing that we can not overcome if the Almighty God is on our side. 23 Transforming Darkness into Light: How Wadah’s Partnership Last September 28, Wadah Malaysia participated in a successful fund Empowered the Resilient People raising campaign in Kuala Lumpur. To Raof and to all the Directors of Wadah of Koa to Shine Malaysia and their families, my heartfelt thanks to all of you for carrying the Wadah flag in Malaysia and for raising funds for our Wadah Global Gathering 28 Wadah Foundation - next year. Highlights of Activities in 2016 I would also like to take this wonderful opportunity to thank all of you, my 30 Sumatran Tiger “Gadih Liku” friends, as well as all the members of the Wadah International Committee for Released into the Wild the successful staging of our inaugural Spotlight Ball in Berlin last 8 October. A special thanks goes to Nathalie Bellosat and most especially to my dear 32 Make a Difference Neeru Singh who made the almost impossible possible. Her commitment, dedication and hard work paid-off bringing Wadah Foundation’s service and commitment to greater heights.
Wadah has entered a new phase in its existence, a new country and territory to flourish but bearing the same vision, objective, tenacity, and much more vigor and dedication to be able to better serve our communities, and the world.
Wadah’s way of caring in sharing and giving has once again achieved a new dimension… an empowering way for the good of all!
December 2016 | Vol. 3 May God’s love and protection continue to be upon as all in this coming About the cover: 2017 so that we may be able to carry on all our endeavors! Taken at the venue of the SpotLight Ball Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a bountiful 2017! in Berlin - Große Orangerie Schloss Charlottenburg
Anie Djojohadikusumo Patron Photos courtesy of:
Alfredo Torno III Margaret Connor Alodie Faye Torno Nikola Nikolov EDDB Retnaning Tyas Florencio Mario Vieira Robby Reppa Freepik.com Vector Open Stock Lim Choo Hin Zul Herman Linda Linsmayer 4 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
From the Editor’s Desk
efore we close this year, we are pleased to share with you the EDITORIAL highlights of our activities for the year. It has been a great and Publishing & Copyright WADAH Foundation blessed year indeed for Wadah Foundation. Editor Alfredo P. Torno III Graphic Design & Layout Alodie Faye Torno B Contributors WIC Members Amongst them was the successful staging of our second Remaja Wadah Wadah Philippines Indonesia (REWIN) or Youths of Wadah Indonesia Program held last 13 Wadah Communities July. This year’s REWIN program was inspired by the 2015 Wadah Global Gathering where youths from 10 countries were gathered to share their WADAH FOUNDATION experiences and learn from one another. Let’s listen to the stories of Patron Anie Djojohadikusumo the youths as they share with us their joys, aspirations and hopes in the Advisory Board Dewi Djarot future. Tuti Mashuri Justi Josopandojo Chairperson Retnaning Tyas We are also sharing with you the story behind the “Effishent” program Vice - Chairperson Yuliani Tri Astuti which was launched and implemented by the members of ENACTUS Secretary Paula Stella Landowero Treasurer J. Cecilia Parengkuan Mannheim last July 16 in one of Wadah’s communities in West Java, Lilik Djohan the PKMW Arjasari. These German students are from the prestigious Mannheim University in Germany. WADAH INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE (WIC) On 28 September, Wadah Malaysia showed their power and strength by Chairperson Neeru Singh successfully co-hosting and co-sponsoring a Charity Gala Dinner to raise Co-Chairperson Alfredo Torno III funds for women and children. They joined the Perak Ladies Club and Secretary Lim Choo Hin International Women Entrepreneurs Malaysia. Proceeds will be used to Nathalie Bellosat Treasurer Ian Rose send Malaysian women speakers to the 2017 Wadah Global Gathering. Joan Fulton Members Babli Kalha We are also releasing the second part of a series of articles written by Linda Linsmayer WIC member Linda Linsmayer about her visit to Wadah communities Margaret Connor Mary Beth Lopresti last May and June. It will truly inspire each and everyone of us. Let’s join Raof Shan Linda in her journey and savor her wonderful experiences. Timothy Stanton Tina Ferreros Read the highlights of the inaugural Spotlight Ball in Berlin last Oct 8. The awe-inspiring event as witnessed by almost 300 hundred souls foreign Like/Follow us on: to Wadah Foundation. The picturesque, beautifully adorned and well-lit venue, the Große Orangerie Schloss Charlottenburg in Berlin was just a facebook.com/Wadah.Foundation perfect venue for the event. Read more and get inspired.
@wadahfoundation Just a week after the Berlin event, Wadah held its year-end strategic and planning session for 2017. Let’s hear what we could expect from Wadah @wadahfoundation communities next year.
youtube.com/wadahfoundation The ARSARI Foundation shares with us the story behind the release of the Sumatran Tiger in Sumatra. Their number has diminished over the Donate through PayPal: years and saving them from extinction is just the best and most logical way to do. www.paypal.me/wadahfoundation Happy reading everyone!
Alfredo Torno III
Yayasan WADAH Titian Harapan (WADAH Foundation) Jl. Penjernihan II/7, Bendungan Hilir Jakarta 10210, Indonesia Phone : +62 21 5799 2162 Email : [email protected] Website : www.wadahfoundation.or.id December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 5
REWIN Harnessed Spirit of the Indonesian Youth By Robby Reppa & Zul Herman
arnessing the Fighting Spirit of the Indonesian Youths” was the theme of this year’s Remaja Wadah Indonesia (REWIN) or the Wadah Indonesia Youth HProgram. Wadah Chairperson, Retnaning Tyas graced the Opening Ceremonies at the Cisalak football field at Cigirang Hamlet, Arjasari Village last July 13, 2016. Retnaning Tyas read and delivered the message of Wadah Patron, Mrs. Anie Djojohadikusomo who was out of the country. In her written speech, Mrs. Anie said she hopes that all youths in Arjasari Village together with all the other youths in Wadah communities all over the archipelago would have the opportunity to participate in the REWIN program.
Arjasari Village Chief Mr. Rosiman, on his part expressed his hope for a sustainable partnership between Wadah Foundation and Arjasari village. Aligned with the REWIN theme, Mr. Rosiman also urged the youths and all Arjasari villagers to maintain the cleanliness of their village.
REWIN program which involved youths from different Wadah communities in the country, aims to prepare devout, steadfast and confident young people. This year’s REWIN Program had 47 youth participants compared to last year’s 31. There’s a 52% increase in the number of participants which shows greater interest from the youths. Youth participants came from Wadah communities in Jakarta, Bogor, Bekasi, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Kupang, Sikka, Ternate, Malifut and Ambon. Preceding the opening ceremony, participants had the opportunity to know more closely the Arjasari village by having a village tour and visited several cultural heritage places in the village.
Also present during the opening ceremonies were Mr. Rosiman, Arjasari Village Chief and his staff representing the local government side; religious and local leaders together 6 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
REW IN Remaja Wadah Indonesia 2016 December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 7 with some people from neighboring villages namely, Lebak Wangi Village and Padepokan Bumi Alit, Batu Karut Village. Everyone was enthused with the inclusion of local philosophy and wisdom in the program. The people from Bumi Alit gave the REWIN committee a book on the history of Bung Karno, Indonesia’s first President who historically held a meeting with Sundanese leader, Haji Ahmad Dahlan in Batu Karut Village where they discussed the basic philosophy of Indonesia, the Pancasila. The said meeting took place near the water well in Arjasari.
Arjasari Villagers both old and young attended the opening ceremony of REWIN 2 with gusto and exuberance. The opening ceremony was also enlivened with various traditional performing arts which include Sisingaan, Reog, Jaipongan dance, Angklung and Silat (a traditional martial arts).
Improvements from the previous REWIN program were the inclusion of new activities such as medical outreach by a doctor for the elderly run by PKMW Cibodas, Lembang and visits to historical sites in the locality. Aside from this, there was also heightened participation from the locals as they jointly took charge of the kitchen duties together with Wadah coordinators.
At the closing ceremonies, REWIN participants were treated to a field trip to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Beautiful Mini- Indonesia Park). Aside from enjoying the park, they also had the opportunity to listen to an inspirational talk by Mr. Aryo Djojohadikusumo, eldest child of Pak Hashim and Ibu Anie. Pak Aryo as he is popularly called, is one of the youngest members of the Indonesian Parliament. He belongs to Commission VII of the parliament which legislates laws on Energy, Research and Technology, and Environment. He is a youth leader/politician and Heads the Tunas Indonesia Raya Youth Movement of the Gerindra Party. Pak Aryo took a time off from his very busy schedule to share and inspire these budding youth leaders in dreaming big and doing the best for themselves, their families and their country. 8 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
Effishent Indonesia A Partnership of Enactus Mannheim with Wadah Foundation By Alex Pirkebner
The majority of the population in Indonesia makes a living through farming, but due to extremely dry climate, unfertile soil and inaccessible terrain, farming is barely possible, especially in the mountain villages located far from the sea. On the coast, large parts of the population therefore make a living through fishing while the mountain population has to make it on the low agricultural yields. This situation results in malnutrition, financial dependency as well as poor educational opportunities which considerably lowers the standard of living of the majority of the Indonesian population.
The goal of the project “Effishent Indonesia” is to fight poverty and malnutrition in Indonesia’s rural mountain regions by implementing an aquaponics farming system to help improve food supply sustainably. The term "aquaponics" generally describes an efficient farming method which combines conventional aquaculture (fish-farming) with hydroponics (vegetables in water without soil, planted within gravel).
Through this symbiosis, a stable and nutrient water cycle is created which does not require the use of pesticides and enables water-saving and environmentally compatible farming. Within the cycle, the produced fish waste is pumped through the vegetable patch. The plants in turn filter the water which subsequently is pumped back into the fish tank, thus closing the cycle. As the system is powered by a solar panel, the food production is completely self-sufficient and therefore an ideal solution for the offshore mountain villages. December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 9 10 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
By building the aquaponics system, we aim to create secure Until today, Enactus Mannheim e.V. and the Wadah employment and additional income as well as long-term Foundation are in close contact, involving the villagers on site supply of fresh fish and vegetables for the community. To to secure a high quality data and system monitoring. Should achieve this goal, Enactus Mannheim e. V. has made the any problem arises, a solution is immediately provided to the first move and has built an aquaponics system in close local people. cooperation with the Wadah Foundation in the community of Arjasari, located in the south of Bandung on the island of In the long run, it is expected that the operators of this Java. With a knowledge transfer concept, one local will be system to spread their knowledge using the train-the-trainer empowered to operate the system by himself in the long concept. In order to make the acquisition of a system even run. This villager will earn a regular income by selling the more appealing to the Indonesians, we are currently working harvest at the local marketplace and will then be able to on ways to lower the costs of the system even further. If this finance himself and his family. is achieved, it is expected that more Indonesians will adopt the system for themselves. Lowering the costs is a vital step The execution and implementation of project “effishent since we are planning to replicate the concept to Eastern Indonesia” was only made through the close partnership Indonesia, where the population has even less opportunities between Enactus Mannheim e.V. and the Wadah Foundation. for farming due to the hot and dry climate. During the work on site in Arjasari, the team from Enactus and the Wadah Foundation as well as the local people from Alex Pirkebner is the current Project Manager of Effishent, Arjasari worked hand in hand. This strong cooperation is the Enactus Mannheim key factor for the impact “effishent Indonesia” has on to the local people. December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 11
WADAH Malaysia A Charity Gala Dinner in Kuala Lumpur By Raof Shan
ertubuhan Wadah Kuala Lumpur dan Selangor or Wadah Malaysia (WM) together with Perak Ladies Club (PLC) and International Women Entrepreneur Malaysia P(IWEM) jointly organized a Charity Gala Dinner event on September 28, 2016 at the beautifully decorated and transformed Taming Sari Grand Ball Room, Royale Chulan Hotel, Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur.
The auspicious event was under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Raja Dato’ Seri Azureen binti Sultan Azlan Shah, held to raise funds to educate the marginalized community. We believe in educating less fortunate women and children to become self-sustaining in their socio-economic environment for their future. We are proud to achieve this inaugural milestone for PLC in jointly organizing the event with us and IWEM – three NGOs who share common objectives and aspirations and who have dedicated their services in empowering women and children to better themselves socially and economically.
We are extremely humbled by the happy faces of more than 550 guests who were elegantly dressed in Black and White attire - graced by our Guest of Honour, Her Royal Highness Raja Permaisuri Perak Darul Ridzuan Tuanku Zara Salim (the consort of the Sultan of Perak, His Royal Highness Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah).
The evening started with the arrival of HRH Tuanku Zara Salim at 8.30pm who was ushered to the Royal Function Room. She was received and welcomed by the Presidents of Meeting Her Royal Highness. Wadah Malaysia and Wadah Indonesia get an the three sponsoring organizations, Y.Bhg Dato Siti Hendon audience with Her Royal Highness Tuanku Zara Salim (PLC), Mr. Abdul Raof Shan (WF) and Ms Norazizah Borhan (IWEM) as well as the VVIP guests. 12 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
The event also brought our very own VVIP guests Mrs. Retnaning Tyas, Wadah Foundation Chairperson and Mrs. Paula Landowero, Wadah Foundation Secretary who came all the way from Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Royal entourage were then ushered to the main table where the dancers donning colourful costumes performed the traditional dance and followed by PLC member’s choir singing the ‘Menjujung Duli’ and ‘Malaysia Baru’. The three Presidents took turns in giving their short speeches to introduce their respective NGOs while the activities of theirs were shown on the two screens in the ball room. A cake cutting ceremony was graced by Her Royal Highness Tuanku Zara to commemorate the inaugural co-organizing of this event by the three NGOs.
Dinner was served at 9.00PM while one of Wadah director’s, A Warm Welcome. Welcoming Her Royal Highness Tuanku Zara Salim Zhariff Afandi sang two songs, ‘Kau Iham ku’ and ‘You Raised Me Up’ – he was heartily acknowledged by the guests.
The Royal entourage left at around 10.30PM but the evening continued with the guests truly enjoying the music and danced to the wee hours of the morning.
Malaysia & Indonesia. Raof Shan, Paula Landowero and Retnaning Tyas with some of the organizing committee.
A Successful Night. The men and women behind the successful event with HRH Tuanku Zara Salim December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 13
Speech delivered by Wadah Malaysia President, Raof Shan at the Gala Dinner
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, WADAH wishes to put on record our deepest gratitude to PLC’s President YG Bahagia Dato Siti Hendon Chek and her members for unselfishly inviting us to co- organize this beautiful charity gala dinner.
I believe this unselfish act - although unprecedented - is because we all share the same aspiration... to assist in educating the less fortunate in marginalized community.
We are also happy to warmly welcome Ibu Retnaning Tyas, Chairperson of WADAH Foundation Indonesia, who is representing the founder of WADAH Foundation, Ibu Anie Hashim Djojohadikusumo, who conveyed her apologies for her absence tonight. All of us here are fortunate to have had a good education. Therefore, education is key to a better and brighter tomorrow. I am very glad (this common aspiration) brings us together.
WADAH truly believes in this cause not only in Malaysia, but globally.
On a final note, I would like to express my hearty “THANK YOU” to all of you caring friends and families who worked hard to assist us in this event. Thank you again and enjoy the evening. ”
Raof Shan. Wadah Malaysia President addresses the attendees at the Gala Dinner 1414 || WadahWadah ChroniclesChronicles || DecemberDecember 20162016 DecemberDecember 20162016 || WadahWadah ChroniclesChronicles || 1515
rom a simple idea that was tossed to the group, a Now, allow us to transport you to Berlin, to the Große concept was then designed and eventually agreed at Orangerie Schloss Charlottenburg, a night of resplendent the inaugural Wadah International Committee meeting festivities. Fin London last February 2016, comes SPOTLIGHT BALL in Berlin. Based on an Asian saying, “A rainpour is such a blessing,” and on the night of the event, we were welcomed with drizzles On October 8, 2016, at the Große Orangerie Schloss and a bit of rain on our way to the main entrance of the Charlottenburg was the fruition of such idea. Almost 300 Schloss. It was a very good sign indeed! The parking area is new faces graced the Wadah Foundation event. It was quite distant from the entrance thus, guests who rode in a hosted by the Embassies of the Governments of India and bus had to walk few hundred meters to reach the entrance. Indonesia in Berlin, Germany. Those riding in smaller vehicles were able to alight closer to the entrance. The Orangerie Schloss is several hundred The original idea was to help raise funds to support the meters long and the entrance which is in the middle of the activities and communities of Wadah in Indonesia, Malaysia, building is called the Rotunde or a Round-about. On the Philippines and India. But after a careful retrospection right side of the schloss is a hall where the evening’s opening and evaluation, Wadah Founder decided to have it as an program was held, while the left side was where the guests awareness-building event and introduction of Wadah dined. But the rain did not hamper the attendees and guests Foundation to European countries. from coming, as they continued to arrive in droves jam packing the entrance venue.
The Venue. SpotLight Ball was held in Große Orangerie Schloss Charlottenburg. 16 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
People started arriving at the venue before 7 o’clock in the evening as the event was scheduled at 7:30 PM. While registration was on-going, a group of Indonesian musicians played the “Gamelan” music to entertain guests as they walk into the hall. The rotunde or roundabout area of the Orangerie were slowly filled with guests. Friends and new found friends gathered creating a feeling of oneness amongst everyone. Registration continued until around 7:45 PM.
The Ambassadors of India and Indonesia. H.E. Gurjit Singh and H.E. Fauzi Bowo opened the event and delivered their welcome speeches and offered their congratulatory messages to Wadah Foundation, most specifically to its Founder, Mrs. Anie Djojohjadikusumo. Thereafter, the AyuBulan Dance Group led by Dr. Bulantrisna Djelantik who came all the way from Bali, Indonesia together with some German dancers performed Indonesian and Indian dances. AyuBulan Dance Group performed the Balinese dance while the German dancers did the Indian dance. The third dance was a fusion of Indian/Indonesian dance. The dance performances were just fantastic. Everyone enjoyed and were truly entertained by the dances. After the short program, all guests were ushered to the left side of the Schloss for the dinner and continuation of the program. December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 17
Unlike any other events where tables are numbered, our event’s tables were identified using cities and villages in India and Indonesia. For Indonesia itself, we used the cities or communities where Wadah has presence. So one will find areas such as Jakarta, Bekasi, Parung, Bandung, Arjasari, Sikka, Maumere, Kupang, Yogyakarta, Tabanan, etc.
While guests were enjoying a scrumptious dinner, a symphony quartet played live music on stage.
After the first main course was served, Ibu Anie was introduced and asked to deliver her speech. As usual, Ibu Anie spoke from her heart thereby captivating everyone in attendance. She opened her speech by inviting everyone to watch the FULL version of the new WADAH Profile video. This was also the launching of Wadah’s new profile video. Everyone was in awe after the watching the video. But they were even more surprised to hear and listen to Ibu Anie’s story on how she got inspired and motivated to establish Wadah. She narrated how she found the first community that she helped until the time Wadah was established, and up to the present where Wadah continues to serve. At the end of her speech, she thanked all the sponsors and donors who has helped in making the Spotlight Ball a success. She also called up on stage and introduced all the members of the Wadah International Committee (WIC). 18 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
Magical Fusion. The Indian-Indonesian experience was felt even more with the beautiful fusion of the cultural dances.
On the part of the WIC, a surprise tribute was given to Ibu Only three items were auctioned the classical way while Anie led by Mrs Neeru. While on stage, Mrs. Neeru lit up a other items were done through the silent auction. candle signifying Ibu Anie as the light that started lighting everyone’s way and life. Thereafter, from one lit candle, each While all these things were happening, WIC member, Ian one of the WIC members and Ibu Anie’s family members Rose and some WIC members hopped from table to table went around the hall to light up all the other candles. It was offering bracelets to guests. The bracelet was brought by a solemn and moving sight to witness. Ian from London. It is a specially-designed bracelet made of sterling silver shaped like the Wadah flower with the Wadah Thereafter, few musical numbers were played by the quartet. logo engraved at the back. A pearl accentuated the flower Then, the German students from Enactus Mannheim were while the strap is made of genuine leather. asked to say a few words about their project and their experience in collaborating with Wadah Foundation. Their At around 12 midnight, all the guests were herded back to testimonies were well received by the audience as they the right side of the Schloss for the Bollywood night. Guests spoke in German language. and Wadah members danced their night away until past 2 o’clock in the morning. Mr. Olaf Brandenburg, owner of the Event Management company announced their satisfaction over their partnership It was indeed a memorable evening having put Wadah with Wadah. As they are celebrating their 10th anniversary, Foundation on spotlight. With its success, we hope to see they decided to donate Euro 10,000 to Wadah Foundation. you all at the next Spotlight Ball whichever country or city it may be hosted. While desserts were being served, the classic auction started.
Indian-Indonesian Experience. Indonesian Ambassador H.E. Fauzi Bowo and Indian L-R: Indonesian Ambassador to Germany H.E. Fauzi Bowo and wife, Mrs. Sri Ambassador H.E. Gurjit Singh welcomed everyone to the SpotLight Ball. Hartati Bowo, Indian Ambassador to Germany H.E. Gurjit Singh and wife Mrs. Neeru Singh December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 19 20 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
Our Focus EDUCATION: Wadah Foundation’s Focus In 2017 By Robby Reppa & Zul Herman
ayasan Wadah Titian Harapan (WADAH) held its second Annual Meeting on 18-21 October 2016 at the Golden Boutique Hotel, Jakarta. It was attended by Y37 participants from the head office, Wadah communities as well as Wadah international representatives. Wadah India representative was not able to attend due to an illness but nevertheless sent her report and plans for 2017.
A day before the actual opening of the Wadah Foundation Annual Meeting, all participants made a courtesy call to Mr. Prabowo Subianto, being one of Indonesia’s inspiring leaders, chairperson of Gerindra Party, and brother-in-law of Ibu Anie in his Padepokan Garuda Yaksa in Hambalang Hill in Bogor, West Java. It was also Mr. Prabowo Subianto’s birthday when the group visited him at this green Hambalang Hill. There, Wadah participants had the opportunity to hear the current state and latest information on Indonesia from Mr. Prabowo.
Mr. Prabowo stated that it is very important for Indonesians to know and understand clearly the current condition of the country, either politically, economically and culturally. His words of patriotism and selflessness were truly inspiring. He once again ignited hope to everyone’s heart and inspired everyone to continue doing their noble works whole-heartedly. After a two-hour sharing session with Mr. Prabowo, all participants were invited to join his birthday celebration. Political luminaries were also in attendance. IndONEsia. The nationalism and love for Indonesia was advocated and strengthened After a hefty lunch, all participants were also accorded a by Mr. Prabowo Subianto after Wadah Foundation . guided tour of the Padepokan Garuda Yaksa compound to see his agricultural nursery and animal breeding programs.
Early evening of the same day, upon everyone’s arrival at the venue, Ibu Anie Djojohadikusumo, the Wadah‘s Patron, officially opened the second Wadah annual meeting 2016. December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 21
Off to a great start. The RAKERNAS October 2016 was off to a great start with a very motivational first day.
In her opening and welcome speech, Ibu Anie reiterated that Germany with the objective of paving the way for Wadah Wadah will give priority and focus on education programs in Foundation and its activities to get known to the German 2017. and European community.
Armed with the guidelines set by the Wadah executives Alfredo also announced the new schedule of the 3rd Wadah prior to the Annual Meeting, each and every coordinator did Global Gathering (WGG) which will now be on 23 to 25 August their presentations effectively. Presentations about Wadah 2017 in Jakarta, Indonesia. WGG was originally scheduled on communities all over Indonesia were made by the Regional 22 to 24 February 2017. WGG will showcase amazing women Coordinators namely: Mr. Florencia Mario Vieira, for East from 10 countries as WGG Speakers. The countries which Nusa Tenggara and Bali; Zakiyah Samal for Maluku, North will be represented are as follows: Philippines, Malaysia, Maluku and Papua; Bambang P. Hediono for Yogyakarta, India, Nepal, Afghanistan, Haiti, Rwanda, Ghana, Kenya and Central Java and East Java; and Adi Hermawan for Jakarta, Indonesia. West Java and Banten.
Presentation about Wadah International operations was started by Wadah Malaysia President, Mr. Raof Shan. In his presentation, he reiterated their commitment in helping the indigenous people or Orang Asli of Malaysia as well as the rescued street people (men, women, children and infants) at Destiny’s Home. Wadah Philippines was represented by its Executive Director, Ms. Teresa Maniego. In her presentation, she stressed on the continued networking activities of Wadah Ph with both local and international organizations; government and non-goverment agencies to effectively deliver support and assistance to those in need. For the newly registered Wadah India, the presentation was made by WIC Co-Chairperson Alfredo Torno on behalf of Mrs. Babli Kalha who was ill at the time of the Annual Meeting. For 2017, Wadah India will continue assisting Saksham, Udayan Care and Maiti India.
After hearing all the presentations, Alfredo reported the recently concluded inaugural Spot Light Ball in Berlin, Germany held last 8th October. The event was jointly presented by the Embassies of India and Indonesia in Ibu Anie Djojohadikusumo 22 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
On the last day of the Annual Meeting, Wadah had the honor of having Indonesia Parliamentary Member, Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo, who belongs to the Commission VIII (Religion, Social, Women Empowerment) who shared her experiences both as a legislator and as head of Parinama Astha Foundation. Her sharing focused on the activities, system, decision-making processes made by the Indonesian parliament which gave everyone a clearer picture of how laws are being made, the hurdles and challenges each legislator faces before a law is passed. As Songs for the Nation. Moved by nationalistic zeal, everyone joined in the the Chairperson of Parinama Astha, Sara as popularly known singing of songs for Indonesia. to everyone, also talked about the possible collaboration of her NGO with Wadah Foundation. She believes that a synergy between Parinama Astha or Partha which focuses on advocating on anti-human trafficking and Wadah could result to better service to her constituents and at the same time expand Wadah’s reach.
Before the annual meeting was formally closed, Ibu Anie asked everyone to share their thoughts about the whole process and views about Wadah’s progress. Thereafter, the annual meeting ended on a very high note, giving everyone renewed spirit and inspiration to face all challenges in accomplishing their commitments in the years to come.
Mind-Opening. Mrs. Rahayu Saraswati, a Parliamentary member, discussed various government processes and what it takes to work for the betterment of the nation. December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 23
Transforming Darkness into Light: How Wadah’s Partnership Empowered the Resilient People of Koa to Shine
By Linda Linsmayer
t was Mario who faithfully came back to check on us and continually encourage us, even when the river was at its highest, and impassable to others.” Vincent reminded his Ifellow villagers in a commanding tone that inspired everyone to applaud. Wadah came! Wadah truly cared! Wadah stayed!
That is all one needs to know about Mario. And about Wadah. And about Anie Hashim Djojohadikusumo who according to villagers, was the first person to ever come to see and check on them since they were relocated and abandoned here more than 16 years ago.
The village chief of Koa, described Anie’s visit as “a sign from God”; a sign that God showed them and as a sign that they could rise up and shine again. And shine again they have! Crossing the river. Linda Linsmayer about to cross the river to get to Koa Village. There was so much more to know about and learn from the inspiring triumphant tales of transformation, from the villagers of Koa. Their stories demonstrated the miraculous ability to overcome insurmountable odds and not just to merely survive, but in their daring resilience, to thrive, to have hope and faith that the future will be brighter. “Thanks be to God”, they say, “and to Wadah”.
This story also depicts the power of the Wadah model; the power of caring enough to come; the power of truly seeing what someone is doing and can do that is working and then co-creating a plan to empower them so they can recover and gather momentum to go further, faster, and sustainably forever than they ever could have without Wadah.
The story of how the Koa-Wadah partnership empowered such a dramatic triumph of the human spirit is a modern All smiles. The loving people of Koa with Linda Linsmayer and Wadah Foundation day example ripe with Biblical metaphorical parallels and representatives. of Biblically epic proportions. The truth is, one had to be immersed to fully comprehend the depth of despair these 24 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
forgotten souls endured, to understand why they now speak As the rhythm and pitch of the music increased, I felt a with the highest regard for Wadah and what Wadah has hand nudging me from behind and someone saying what empowered them to do. I thought meant we were to join the young boy in dancing down the aisle. Not wanting to offend anyone, I joined in It was an approximately one and a half-hour four-wheel with all my might too, trying to imitate his every move. Only drive ride to Koa from El Tari airport in Kupang, on winding later, much to my horror was I told, I hadn’t been asked to road, that was until we reached the turn off where, before dance at all, I was being asked to scoot up to make room for Wadah, there was no road at all. For the next half hour our others! driver gingerly eased his car over the rough but discernible dirt road, across river rocks and through hub cap-deep water Within minutes Lilik and others from our Wadah entourage of a vast delta river. mercifully joined in. Within seconds, the place reached a fever pitch with esteemed village elders encircled us dancing We arrived 2 hours late due to flight delays, yet children while exuberantly shouting and hooting to the music. Such in their finest brightly-colored, hand-woven clothes and unleashed joy! Only later did I come to understand that the villagers anxiously awaited, ceremoniously greeting us group dance more accurately served to represent a release by placing a scarf, that takes three days to weave by hand, or breakthrough healing from the darkness and pain of around our necks. abandonment into the light of hope.
Children playing traditional music with all their might formed How ironic to discover this catalytic, symbolic moment was an aisle, in the center of which a small boy energetically sparked by accident, all because instead of simply scooting and artfully danced. Never before had I been received with forward to make room for others, I thought I had been such an exuberant heartfelt welcome. I was simultaneously asked to dance. Never had I felt so honored to receive such touched, humbled and elated to be welcomed as if I were a a generous welcome. After all, all I did was show up…and world leader. Which soon I found out, that as a member of commit the “faux pas” of my life; but one that proved to be Wadah, I am a world leader to them, for Wadah helped them most fortunate faux pas I may ever commit. to change their world. December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 25
Deep Despair, Deep Wounds of Betrayal Require Authentic Caring and Staying Power
What a grand and fortuitous opening for what proved to be an evening of dramatic, testimonies given by villager after villager proclaiming, with the sincerest conviction of how their lives have been transformed, how healing has begun from the nearly mortal, horrifically traumatizing deep wounds they received from being the forgotten, displaced victims of a civil war.
Yes, it was a full house, I’m guessing nearly everyone Getting Acquainted. Ibu Lilik Djohan and Linda Linsmayer mingle with the children of of some 300 families was there encircling the open air Koa Village. gathering center they built themselves with the help of Wadah. Various community members were asked by the village chief to share what Wadah’s commitment to partner with their community has meant to them. One by one these individuals, unaccustomed to having visitors, much less speaking publicly, stood up and told their emotionally raw, tear-filled stories of small triumphs that triggered transformation. Their stories were rife with struggle that reflected the unimaginable hardships endured by people who were in 1999 displaced from their former homeland, East Timor (what is now the country of Timor Leste).
Make no mistake about it. These individuals were plunked (vs. carefully placed) in Koa, where the government hastily fashioned temporary-looking floor-less, shelters they called Dancing with the Stars. Linda Linsmayer dancing with the children in Koa, the real homes and promptly abandoned and forgot about them. stars of the village. They were now trapped in this roadless, isolated, unforgiving land with no clean water, no electricity, no midwife (much Flexible, Adaptable Plans Co-Created less a doctor), no school or clergyman, and I dare say, with from the Inside Empowered Individuals very little or no hope. That was more than 16 years ago. Up
That is why, from the depth of this wounded-ness any glimmer of hope or small victory they share, takes on miraculously epic proportion. Understandably, because of the direness of despair in these seemingly inescapable circumstances, they humbly credit their faith in God for each and every triumph. Yet when seen rightly, their tiny little victories weren’t tiny at all: they demonstrated a level of tenacity, a resilience of the human spirit that dwarfs the accomplishments of any Olympian, for they literally had to rise from the ashes of a parched earth. Until Anie and Wadah came, there were no spectators clapping to urge them on. No one saw them. No one. Their job-like struggles went on for so long that when Anie did show up, when they did get solar light electricity, they felt it was a sign that God still sees them and cares for Warm Welcome. Visitors of Koa Village are welcomed gracefully. them tenderly. After all they have endured, the people of Koa possessed the capacity to be tender-hearted! The people of Koa are more than resilient, they are inextinguishable lights for all the world to see.
The raw depth and utter darkness of personal pain each person shared served to simultaneously provide perspective for their well of inner strength and resolve. A level of faith surpassed all understanding and that was, by the grace of God through Wadah, still capable of being fanned, tended and not just spark, but literally flame and glow. Yes, Koa and each soul there, glowed like a city on hill, a Biblical, metaphorical city on a hill whose light so shined forth that everyone around them could see all that was truly praiseworthy, excellent and amazing that God had done A Special Gift. It has been a custom for the villagers to present their visitors for them (through Wadah they would each thoughtfully say wth tenun, a cloth weaved with delicate care. in words carefully chosen intended to thank Wadah while recognizing God as their true provider.) 26 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
The village chief articulately proclaimed, “Today we have and so did we and that is why Koa has solar electricity today. solar power, not because Anie and Wadah wanted us to have Now everyone sees it is working so now everyone even in it, but because it was God’s will to empower us to do this.” surrounding villages wants join in today. “ Seeing these people aglow, figuratively and literally, defied The Power of Selfless Love. The Power of all odds. And on this day they gathered, joyfully gathered, to tell the story of how their roadless village, Koa, came to have Wadah. light, solar powered light and clean well water thanks to a The chief continued by sharing his remarkable motivation hydraulic powered pump, that they were able to install and for giving the land he once owned to the government are able to maintain for themselves. to provide housing for these East Timorese refugees. He humorously confessed to his now beloved neighbors that he But the installation of solar power wasn’t all sunshine and was initially reluctant to welcome them, because everyone roses. Not every one of the more than 300 families, only 220, had heard that these Timorese were nothing but thieves and were willing to make a sweat equity investment upfront, murderers. I decided I did not want refugees, but I would which required their commitment to donate time to build the welcome people who wanted to be permanent villagers open air community gathering center and solar workshop. with me, because the Bible says, “Whatever you do for the Similarly, not everyone was willing to commit to pay the least of these you do for me.” monthly fee of Rp 25,000 as decided by the community There was nothing ordinary in the words being spoken and members themselves (which was half of the amount they emotions being experienced. The words initially carried the were already spending on the dirty burning kerosene) even weight of the world then suddenly floated off like a feather though the amount was put into a community fund for caught in an updraft. Deep healing was happening. future repairs. Like doubting Thomas, I had to witness this depth love and Patience, Endurance Earned Trust. mutual admiration radiating from hearts that had been so Respect and Success, Healing. deeply wounded and had grown frighteningly cold, come back to life, to reclaim their joy and their right to have hope As the village chief reflected, “We were all like doubting for a better future, to believe it. Thomas in the Bible who had to see things in order to believe.” He went on to say, many of us were people with little faith in others, and for good reason. But “Wadah kept their word December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 27
Story After Story Provided Living Proof that Wadah is a Catalyst Transforming Lives.
Story after tearful passionate story, individuals gave their truth-filled testimonies, of how their lives with the help of Wadah and by grace of God, have been transformed. One young teacher shared, “Wadah is a beautiful place for learning. With Wadah, I learned I can change myself, my character. Wadah is an amazing gift from God.” Yet before this declaration she confessed how she struggled with self doubt, questioning of her teaching ability. But through those times Wadah lifted her up with tangible support and training.
Another village tutor explained, “Before Wadah, we were forgotten by the world. Everyone here was so shy because no one saw us and we would not get together to meet. I never dreamed that now people from all over the world come to see us and that other villages would want their children to come here to school and to have solar lights like we have.”
To hear that this once forgotten village was attracting others to join in their efforts to build a brighter future is just one more, albeit remarkable, example of how Wadah Foundation has served as a catalyst increasing momentum to positively impact social change even in the midst of extremely complex world circumstances.
With each person that rose and spoke, one could see and feel momentum rise accordingly, fueled by self perpetuating self empowerment. The collective energy in this open air room was like being at a revival, where once people who had died inside, were being reborn. Hope was rising. Dreams were being spoken out loud.
Wadah’s Powerful Network Would Be Brighter With You. Please Join Us.
Wadah is a catalyst empowering individuals and entire communities to transform darkness into light. Please join us. Be the one who helps transform someone’s despair into hope. You are the light of the world. Let your light so shine forth to help another. 28 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
Wadah Foundation Highlights of Activities in 2016
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January 2016 July 2016 July 25, 2016 Wadah Philippines REWIN II Program Wadah Foundation received the 2nd Air was granted Special Division Award given by Consultative Status at the Philippine Air Force UN ECOSOC
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February 2016 July 2016 August 2016 Formation of Wadah Effishent Program - Official registration of International Committee in collaboration with Wadah India (WIC) ENACTUS Mannheim December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 29
t the end of the year, it is rewarding for any organization to look back and see how they have fared and performed, and see how one can improve even further. It is on this same light that we wish to share with our friends, partners, Asupporters and readers as well as the communities that we serve the highlights of our activities this 2016. We hope that we will all the more be inspired to continue pursuing our battle to serve as the bridge of hope to those who are in need towards a brighter future.
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September 15, 2016 October 8, 2016 The article/blog “Solar Grand Mamas, Light Warriors Successful staging of the SpotLight from East Indonesia” which tells the story about our Ball in Berlin Solar electrification program in East Nusa Tenggara written by Vicharius Dian Jiwa Putra Pamungkas of Ahloo.com won the Grand Prize at the Indonesia Climate Change Trust Fund (ICCTF).
a) PKMW Tabanan (Bali) c) Maluku: Ambon KAHENA
b) Maluku Utara: Ternate d) Papua Barat, Manokwari 8 Gen-Part Mangga Dua 10 Kampung Kobrey
Newly added Wadah September 28, 2016 Community & Satellite Successful Fundraising Communities Gala Dinner in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 30 | Wadah Chronicles | December 2016
Sumatran Tiger, “Gadih Liku” Released into the wild By Floury Octaria & Catrini Kubontubuh
rom its own habitat in Sumatra, Indonesia the current population of the Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris sumatrae) has reportedly suffered a tremendous Fdecrease and is now believed to be only less than 400. From six of the world’s known species, the Sumatran Tiger is the only surviving tiger specie that still exists.
Due to its diminishing habitat and food scarcity, the Sumatran Tiger is now in the brink of extinction. Villagers of Pesisir Selatan District in West Sumatra feel very unsafe and terrified due to a young tigress that preys on their cattle and other sources of livelihood. Last June 10, 2016, these villagers made a trap and successfully caught the Sumatran Tiger. The tigress was then brought and rehabilitated at the Kinantan Wildlife and Cultural Park of Bukittinggi (Bukittinggi Zoo) for two months.
Prior to this incident, the Arsari Djojohadikusomo Foundation (YAD) in cooperation with the UK-based Aspinall Foundation, and the Conservation of Natural Resources Office (BKSDA) of West Sumatra have started preliminary studies leading to the creation of the Sumatran Tiger Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of Dharmasraya or Pusat Rehabilitasi Satwa Harimau Sumatera Dharmasraya (PRS HSD). They have invited and engaged several NGOs as well as local educational institutions to do the study. Part of the study done by the Faculty of Biology of the University of Andalas in Padang was a survey of of the Kerinci Seblat National Parks (TNKS) which proves to be a potential site to release the tiger.
After its rehabilitation in Bukittinggi Zoo, “Gadih Liku” the name given to the young tigress by the Head of BKSDA was ready for release into the wild on 31 August 2016. Prior to its release, the tigress was subjected to physical and health December 2016 | Wadah Chronicles | 31
examination which included blood test. The tiger was given a GPS-activated collar donated by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) for easy movement monitoring while in the wild. The GPS will remain active for two (2) years.
In the evening of August 30, 2016, Gadih Liku was transported through a steel cage to the Prof. Sumitro Djojohadikusomo’s conservation forest at the borders of TNKS. Prior to the release the said area had been inspected and cleared by the Indonesia Conservation Society (ICS) of meshes that were previously installed by the poachers.
The team reached the site in the early morning of August 31 after more or less 10 hours of travel from Bukittinggi Zoo to Dharmasraya. The team placed black plastic sheets from the cage’s entrance into the woods to guide Gadih Liku’s path Preparing for Release. A number of men carrying the cage to prepare for the release. into the forest.
After the successful release of Gadih Liku, a thanksgiving ceremony was held wishing the young tigress’ safety and be able to continue to breed for the next generations. On the same occasion, prayers were also said to mark the commencement of the construction of the Sumatran Tiger Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of Dharmasraya or Pusat Rehabilitasi Satwa Harimau Sumatra Damasraya (PRS-HSD).
All parties were hopeful that with the release of the Sumatran tiger to its normal habitat will help increase its population by 10% by the year 2019.
Gadih Liku. Released from the steel cage, the tigress carefully monitors the surroundings before carefully leaping out into the forest.
A New Home. This vast forest is now the new home of Gadih Liku. Making A Difference Through Life-changing Gifts
Transform Wadah Philippines communities by supporting our educational programs
US$ 30 Feeds a school child living under the bridge in Barangay Pusok, Mactan, Cebu, for one whole month, so the child doesn’t go to school hungry
US$ 50 BALIK ARAL (Back-to-School) SCHOLARSHIP Program Buys a year’s worth of school supplies, uniforms, vitamins, hygiene kits and a school bag for an elementary school student living off the Soong Dumpsite in Mactan, Cebu
US$ 100 Pays the student’s yearly subscription fees for the use of the E-Learning System developed for the new K-12 curriculum approved by the Philippine Department of Education
US$ 200 Buys a tablet that enables an out-of-school youth to obtain his high school diploma through the E-Learning System on Jao Island, Bohol
US$ 750 Underwrites the annual operations and maintenance expenses of the E-Learning System on Jao Island, Bohol
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Wadah International Offices: WADAH PHILIPPINES WADAH MALAYSIA WADAH INDIA Philippines Wanita Dan Harapan, Inc. Pertubuhan Wadah Wadah Foundation Trust Greater Heights, G/F JY I.T. Center 3 Kuala Lumpur & Selangor 101 Desh Bandhu Apt’s Kalkaji Salina Drive, Lahug, Cebu City 6000 183A Jalan Tembusu Sierramas New Delhi 110019 Philippines 47000 Sungai Buloh, India Selangor, Malaysia