Rare megamouth shark swims with diver off Komodo Island (VIDEO)

Rare megamouth shark swims with diver off Komodo Island (VIDEO)

pic. google.com

A diver in Indonesia was treated to a rare sight off Komodo Island, catching a glimpse of a giant megamouth shark. Despite its fearsome name, the shark, which has been sighted about 60 times since being discovered, isn’t considered dangerous.

Penny Bielich from the Isle of Man was diving off the coast when she encountered the rarely-seen shark. It swims right next to Bielich, giving a detailed view of its distinctive features.

Named megamouth due to its large mouth, the shark was first discovered in 1976, according to National Geographic.

Due to the wide distribution of sightings in the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans, its population is of “least concern” to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Growing up to 17ft long, the elusive shark is a filter-feeder, using its large mouth to filter water as it eats plankton and jellyfish.

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Wonderful Sail 2 Indonesia Rally 2017 travels across archipelago

Wonderful Sail 2 Indonesia Rally 2017 travels across archipelago

The annual Wonderful Sail 2 Indonesia Rally has finally kicked off. For three months, the participants will sail across the archipelago, exploring dozens of destinations in Indonesia from Langgur in Southeast Maluku to Batam in Riau Islands.

This year marks the 4th anniversary of the international rally and the first time it is conducted entirely in Indonesia.

The rally began on July 23 of which the yachters traveled to Langgur Maluku and will stay there until July 27.

“We’ve already prepared 65 tourist attractions. Currently, the one that’s been getting a lot of attention is the 100-meter cave in Wear Aur. The cave has rooms filled with beautiful stalactites. Welcome to Langgur,” said Southeast Maluku Tourism Agency head Roy Rahajaan.

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 Tourism Ministry’s deputy head of Marine Tourism Acceleration Team Asep Muhammad said the event could help promote marine tourism to foreign tourists, especially yacht communities around the world.

“Ambon in Maluku is included in 10 priority underwater destinations. There’s also Bali, Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara, Labuan Bajo and Alor in East Nusa Tenggara, Derawan in East Kalimantan, Bunaken in North Sulawesi, Togean in Central Sulawesi, Wakatobi in Southeast Sulawesi, and Raja Ampat in West Papua,” said Asep.

“Out of 68 participating yachts, there are at least 150 foreign tourists hailing from Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Belgium, Italia, Spain and France,” he added.

Tourism Minister Arief Yahya said that Wonderful Sail 2 Indonesia aimed to help to improve Indonesian tourism.

“From the in-and-out clearance, customs, immigration, quarantine, to harbormasters, all parties should go all out to support this if they wish Indonesia's yacht tourism to compete with other global players,” said Arief.

“It’s a lot better now with the availability of website https://yachters-indonesia.id where participants only need to fill in the available form to enter Indonesia. It’s easy and I encourage all parties to keep on improving their service,” he added.

Below is the schedule for Multihull Solutions – Wonderful Sail 2 Indonesia Rally 2017: (kes)

Southeast Maluku (July 23-27)
Banda Neira, Banda Islands (July 30 July - Aug. 2)
New South (Aug. 4 – 7)
Wakatobi (Aug. 10-13)
Maumere (Aug. 16-19)
Ende (Aug. 21-24)
Labuan Bajo (Aug. 26-29)
Sumbawa (Sept. 1-4)
Lombok (Sept. 7-11)
Bali (Sept. 14-17)
Kumai, West Kotawaringin (Sept. 27-30)
Bangka (Oct. 4 – 8)
Bidan (Oct. 11 – 14)
Tanjung Pinang (Oct. 15-18)
Batam (Oct. 20)


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Ubud listed among 'world's top 15 cities'

Ubud listed among 'world's top 15 cities'

Indonesia Travel Destinations

American travel publication Travel+Leisure recently made a list of the "World’s Top 15 Cities".

“Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines and more. Readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping and overall value,” as quoted from the article.

Taking the 9th spot with the score of 90.13 is Ubud in Bali, right after Cape Town in South Africa that has the score of 90.24. Meanwhile, topping the list is San Miguel de Allende in Mexico that scores 92.12.

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In a separate article from Travel+Leisure titled "The Top 10 Cities in Asia", Ubud takes the 4th spot with the same score, coming after Hoi An in Vietnam that takes the 3rd spot with the score of 90.31. The 1st winner is awarded to Chiang Mai, Thailand, with the score of 91.40.

“High up in the interior of the island of Bali, Ubud continues to draw those who favor the arts and reflection—rather than beaches and parties. ‘I loved everything about Ubud,’ said one reader. ‘I was spoiled by the kind and thoughtful people I met everywhere I went,’” the article wrote.

Ubud has arguably become more famous after being shown in the popular movie Eat Pray Love that featured Julia Roberts, where it showcases the beauty of Ubud Monkey Forest. These days however, Ubud is known as the best place for yoga.

Other attractions that you can visit while going to Ubud include Campuhan Hill, Nyuh Kuning Village, Tegalalang, Ubud Temple, Sarawati Temple and Apung river where you can do rafting.

Just like other Balinese, Ubud residents adopt the traditional philosophy of tri hita karana that epitomizes the balance and harmony between the three sources of life: humans, nature and God.

Below is the list of the World’s Top 15 Cities according to Travel+Leisure:

1. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

2. Charleston, United States

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

4. Kyoto, Japan

5. Florence, Italy

6. Oaxaca, Mexico

7. Hoi An, Vietnam

8. Cape Town, South Africa

9. Ubud, Indonesia

10. Luang Prabang, Laos

11. Santa Fe, United States

12. Roma, Italy

13. Siem Reap, Cambodia

14. Udaipur, India

15. Barcelona, Spain

Top 10 Cities in Asia according to Travel+Leisure:

1. Chiang Mai, Thailand

2. Kyoto, Japan

3. Hoi An, Vietnam

4. Ubud, Indonesia

5. Luang Prabang, Laos

6. Siem Reap, Cambodia

7. Udaipur, India

8. Bangkok, Thailand

9. Tokyo, Japan

10. Thimphu, Bhutan


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Indonesia Travel Destinations: Selayar Islands set to compete with Bali, Raja Ampat in tourism

Indonesia Travel Destinations : Selayar Islands set to compete with Bali, Raja Ampat in tourism

South Sulawesi's Selayar Islands regency administration is set to collaborate with the Sampoerna Consortium Group to develop Selayar Islands as a leading destination for marine tourism, a destination on par with Bali and Raja Ampat.

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A five-star hotel is planned for the regency in 2018 alongside a golf course and an international hospital.

“We hope the government can facilitate a meeting with global investors to support this program. What a shame it would be if this paradise is not developed to reach its maximum potential,” said Bambang Sulistyo of the Sampoerna Consortium Group.

Plans are also in store to revamp H. Aroeppala Airport in Selayar regency so that it can accommodate large aircraft by 2019.

“We have two things that we are focusing on for Selayar [Islands], namely [making it a] Special Economic Zone [KEK] and [holding] the Sail Takabonerate [event],” said Tourism Minister Arief Yahya.

The Selayar KEK area covers 500 hectares of land and is slated for development in 2018.

The administration has also prepared another 100 hectares to build a modern Islamic center called the Islamic Unity Center. The center will host a mosque, an Islamic boarding school and a library. (kes)

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Indonesia Travel Destinations: Four cities in Indonesia where you can travel by foot

Indonesia Travel Destinations: Four cities in Indonesia where you can travel by foot

Indonesia has been dubbed the country with the laziest walkers in the world. At least, that’s what a group of researchers at Stanford University have concluded. The study found that the average Indonesian only walks a total of 3,515 steps a day, significantly lower than the average person from Hong Kong, who typically reaches 6,880 steps a day.

Still, walking remains one of the best ways to travel, allowing you to explore the nooks and crannies of a city. While many Indonesians assume that walking is something that can only be conveniently done in other countries, here are four cities across Indonesia that are great for traveling by foot, as compiled by kompas.com:

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This laid-back city has a number of pedestrian-friendly areas. Many people will agree that it is far easier to truly experience the beauty of Yogyakarta’s rich culture by walking in the city, especially when exploring spots like Jl. Malioboro.

You’ll be able to walk on the sidewalk that runs along the entire street, as parking on Malioboro is now regulated, which ensures that the sidewalks are accessible for pedestrians.

Other than Jl. Malioboro, must see places where you can explore the local culture by foot include the areas around the Kraton (palace), Tamansari and Kotagede.

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Known for the popular Jam Gadang, a clock tower that acts as the city’s major landmark, this city in West Sumatra has a selection of unique destinations to visit on foot. The city itself is not too big and generally has a nice, cool air, making walking around very convenient.

After spending some time admiring Jam Gadang, you can also explore Ngarai Sianok, a spectacular canyon that boasts natural views and the local sights. From there, still on foot, you can also stop by Goa Jepang, or the Japanese Cave, where you can learn about World War II.

There is also a selection of walking tours that you can take. There is the Heritage Tour, where you can visit founding father Mohammad Hatta’s home, or the Culinary Tour in the Upper Market and the Lower Market, just to name a few.

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Unlike the other two destinations, this one is a metropolitan city, but who says that you can’t enjoy a metropolitan city on foot? Try walking around Surabaya, where you’ll be able to experience the hustle at the heart of the city without worrying about getting run over by a car.

Similar to some of the other cities on this list, Surabaya also has a number of interesting walking tours that you can fit into your schedule. You can try walking along Old Town Surabaya, from Jembatan Merah to Tugu Pahlawan, which is rich with the history of the City of Heroes.

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Surakarta’s personal tagline, the Spirit of Java, does not disappoint. A city with a friendly community and a plethora of cultural treasures, Surakarta has long been a magnet for tourists looking for adventure.

The streets throughout the city are organized and the sidewalks are well-cared for, allowing you to explore the city on foot with ease.

You can start by walking from Slamet Ryadi, the main road, and make stops at Mangkunegaran Palace, Loji Gandrung, Sriwedari Park, as well as Balekambang Park. Be sure that you also set some time aside to go shopping at Triwindu Market and the Solo Grand Mall.

Not far from there, there are many other fascinating historical destinations such as the Danar Hadi Museum and the Radyapustaka Museum. (tha/kes)


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Indonesia Travel Destinations: Jomblang Cave, Yogyakarta, a vertical cave with heaven-sent view

Indonesia Travel Destinations: Jomblang Cave, Yogyakarta, a vertical cave with heaven-sent view

Jomblang Cave located in Jetis Wetan village in Semanu, Gunung Kidul regency, is a deep vertical cave that is famous for the view of the sunlight coming through the hole that looks like heaven-sent.

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Situated 10 kilometers from the city of Wonosari and 40 kilometers from Yogyakarta, the destination provides only a kilometer of smooth asphalt road to the parking location; the rest of the trip is nothing but rocky grounds.

The cave that has a diameter area of 50 meters was first discovered in 1984 by Acintyacunyata Speleological Club (ASC), a group of cave explorers from Yogyakarta.

Many tourists have visited this tourist attraction, including those hailed from Europe, United States, China, Singapore and Malaysia.

Entering the cave requires a bit of an effort, as you will need to wear safety helmet and a rope. Using single rope technique (SRT), visitors take turns to go down to the cave; only a maximum of two people are allowed in a single batch.

“The going up and down the cave are very challenging, amazing,” said Jack from Singapore who came with his six friends.

Inside the cave, there are photographers who are ready to take your adventure photos. The photos will be printed and sold at the registration hut where lunch is also provided.

Inside the cave, visitors will see plenty of growing plants; even its limestone walls are covered with shrubs.

Done exploring the cave, you can continue the journey by walking through a 500-meter alley that will lead you to another vertical cave called Grubug Cave.

Arriving at Grubug Cave, your eyes will meet the view of two huge green-brownish stalagmites. If you can reach the cave by 1 p.m. you will get to see a stunning view of the sun shines through the darkness of Grubug Cave. (kes)

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Indonesia Travel Destinations: CNN Travel - List of Top 10 best dive sites in Asia

Indonesia Travel Destinations: CNN Travel - List of Top 10 best dive sites in Asia 

(CNN) — It's been said that we know more about the moon than we know about our own oceans.
That's probably total rubbish. In any case the moon is about as interesting as a cold, hard ball of rock floating around empty space.
The oceans on the other hand can captivate even the most cynical of aesthetes. But they are fragile things.
Human activities such as overfishing and pollution threaten an estimated 95% of Southeast Asia's coral reefs, says the World Resources Institute.
Climate change is also affecting them. Thailand's authorities have even been closing popular dive sites to allow them to recover from coral bleaching.
Here's a tour of 10 of Asia's most spectacular underwater dive sites, home to sharks, whales, sunfish and more -- and a glimpse at some of the threats they face.

1. Pulau Sipadan, Malaysia

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Pulau Sipadan is the only oceanic island in Malaysia, and before 2002 was the subject of an intense territorial dispute between Malaysia and Indonesia. It's rated by many dive journals as one of the top dive destinations in the world.
Recently, the Malaysian government has had to clamp down on coral thieves operating around the country's coastline.
Pulau Sipadan has also fallen victim to coral bleaching in the past, a process most commonly caused by a change in sea temperature that kills the coral on reefs leaving them looking white and "bleached."
One of the island's unique features is a turtle tomb, an underwater limestone cave that features many narrow tunnels and chambers containing the remains of green sea turtles that have become trapped and drowned.

2. Similan Islands, Thailand

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A clown fish, no stranger around the Similan Islands, is familiar to younger divers as "Nemo."
The white sandy beaches, dramatic boulders and sparkling waters of the Similan Islands in the Andaman Sea are perfect for relaxing. Their remote location and marine life -- including manta rays, whale sharks, turtles and a myriad of other fish species -- also makes them a world-class diving destination.
The 11 islands of the archipelago became a protected National Park of Thailand in 1982 and are protected by strict laws.
The islands are closed from mid-May to mid-October every year during the Monsoon season as weather conditions make it dangerous to visit.
Despite the protections, the government says that local fishermen illegally fish during the monsoon season damaging the fragile coral reefs.

3. Derawan Islands, East Kalimantan, Indonesia

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Stingless jellyfish are some of the more unusual creatures to be found in the seas around the Derawan Islands, which consist of four inhabited islands and two uninhabited islands off the east coast of Borneo.
The jellyfish pictured here are foraging for food in Kakaban Lake on Kakaban Island.
Free from natural predators, the jellyfish lost their defense systems over thousands of years of evolution.
Being an enclosed environment however, life within Kakaban Lake is at risk from excessive human activity, such as outboard motor use.

4. Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar

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Consisting of some 800 islands, the Mergui Archipelago is a largely desolate area, tucked away from the rest of the world. Popular with exploratory divers, it offers huge boulders, caverns, tunnels and drop-offs.
As well as sharks and manta rays, a diver might encounter red lionfish (pictured). Their spectacular frills conceal venomous spines on their backs. The spines are used for defense only.
When predating, lionfish rely on their quick reflexes to swallow prey whole.
Though the Andaman Sea has escaped much of the over-development, bleaching and nutrient loading that has affected other sites around the world, trawling, longline and blast fishing have impacted fish populations here.

5. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

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Off the northwestern tip of Indonesia's West Papua province, the Raja Ampat Islands have the highest recorded diversity of fish and coral on earth -- an amazing 537 coral species and 1,074 fish species can be found here, according to The Nature Conservancy.
To date, the islands have been relatively resistant to coral bleaching and disease. They are credited with replenishing other reefs with coral larvae.
But overfishing, pollution and urbanization of coastlines threaten the reefs. The local government is working with agencies to protect the marine ecology while also supporting local livelihoods.
Pictured are fusilier fish, a common sight around Raja Ampat. These slick fish move sweepingly in a zig-zag pattern at high speeds and apparently in perfect unison, making them a truly remarkable thing to encounter.

6. Andaman Islands, India

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The elusive ribboned sweetlips is one of the colorful inhabitants of the Andaman Islands. These fish can grow up to 50 centimeters in length. They live alone in deep water and feed on crabs, shrimps and sea snails.
Feeding is facilitated by their bright colors, which camouflages them against the corals.
To protect marine life that includes big game fish such as black marlin and sailfish, the Indian government has banned commercial fishing around the 572 islands that make up the Andaman Islands.

7. Komodo Island, Indonesia

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The variety of marine life around Komodo Island ranges from sunfish, mantas, dolphins and eagle rays to the fascinating pygmy seahorses, ornate ghost pipefish and blue-ringed octopus, making this one of the most diverse and vibrant dive spots on the planet.
In past years dynamite fishing and a crown of thorns infestation severely traumatized the reef system, and artificial electric reefs were introduced to help rebuild the coral.

8. Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia

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The small fishing village of Tulamben hosts one of the most popular dive sites on Bali. During World War II, a Japanese torpedo sank the USAT Liberty, a U.S. Army transport ship.
The 120-meter-long wreck is now home to a variety of fish species, such as batfish, angelfish, puffer fish and hawkfish.
Fishing is banned in the area around Tulamben and some resorts have undertaken voluntary eco-initiatives, but the number of visitors to the site -- up to 100 divers per day during peak periods -- is a potential threat.

9. Kerama Islands, Okinawa, Japan

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The Kerama Islands are host to 76 dive sites, and are relatively well protected thanks to a local community that has embraced both its natural oceanic ecosystems and tourism.
The Akajma Marine Science Laboratory on Akajima Island (population 300) was founded in 1988 and has provided data and guidance for the whole of Japan on the conditions and best protective practices for its reef systems.
Cuttlefish (pictured) are one of the many sea species that can be seen around the islands, along with larger creatures such as humpback whales and manta rays. Despite their name, cuttlefish are not fish but molluscs, and can change color rapidly to camouflage themselves when danger is near.

10. Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park, Philippines

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Declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1993, the Philippines' Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park is crawling with marine life. Sharks, turtles and reef fish can often be found congregating around the atoll.
The U.N. describes the area as "a pristine coral reef with a spectacular 100-meter perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons and two coral islands."
With shipping, marine pollution and oil exploration efforts disrupting the natural habitats, many species here are endangered.
It is hoped that a "buffer zone" around the most sensitive parts of the reef, as well as more effective enforcement of anti-littering marine laws, will enhance the longevity of many of these threatened species.

CNN Travel : http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/asia-best-dive-sites/index.html

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Four Indonesian destinations named best dive sites in Asia by CNN

Four Indonesian destinations named best dive sites in Asia by CNN

News website CNN recently ran a listicle article on the 10 Best Dive Sites in Asia.

See the complete list : CNN Travel - List of Top 10 best dive sites in Asia 

Four of the locations mentioned are from Indonesia, namely Derawan in East Kalimantan, Raja Ampat in West Papua, Komodo Island in East Nusa Tenggara and Tulamben in Bali.

The other six are Sipadan Island in Malaysia, Similan Islands in Thailand, the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar, the Andaman Islands in India, Kerama Islands in Japan and Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park in the Philippines.

“Off the northwestern tip of Indonesia's West Papua province, the Raja Ampat Islands have the highest recorded diversity of fish and coral on earth -- an amazing 537 coral species and 1,074 fish species can be found here, according to The Nature Conservancy,” CNN writes.

Tourism minister Arief Yahya appreciates the inclusion of the four Indonesian destinations in the article, “There are still more underwater destinations that haven’t yet covered by CNN,” he says.

He mentions other destinations such as Wakatobi in North Sulawesi, Morotai in North Maluku, Banda Maluku, Bunaken and Lembeh Strait in North Sulawesi, Gili in Lombok, Karimunjawa in Central Java, Anambas in Riau Islands, Mandeh in West Sumatra, Belitung in Bangka Belitung, Tanjung Lesung in Banten and much more.

“There are hundreds of diving spots in Indonesia, we’re confident that Indonesia is still the best when it comes to underwater tourism,” Yahya adds. (asw)

http://www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2017/07/20/four-indonesian-destinations-named-best-dive-sites-in-asia-by-cnn.html

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Indonesia Travel Destinations: Gunung Leuser National Park

Indonesia Travel Destinations: Gunung Leuser National Park

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Gunung Leuser National Park is a national park covering 7,927 km2 in northern Sumatra, Indonesia, straddling the border of North Sumatra and Aceh provinces, a fourth portion and three-fourths portion, respectively. The national park, settled in the Barisan mountain range, is named after Mount Leuser (3,119 m), and protects a wide range of ecosystems. An orangutan sanctuary at Bukit Lawang is located within the park. Together with Bukit Barisan Selatan and Kerinci Seblat National Parks, it forms a World Heritage Site, the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra.

Geography

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Gunung Leuser National Park is 150 km long, over 100 km wide, and mostly mountainous. About 40% of the park, mainly in the north-west, is steep, and over 1,500 m in elevation. This region is billed as the largest wilderness area in Southeast Asia, and offers wonderful trekking. Around 12% of the park, in the lower southern half, is below 600 m above sea level. Eleven peaks are over 2,700 m. Mount Leuser (3,119 m) is the third-highest peak on the Leuser Range. The highest peak is Mount Tanpa Nama (3,466 m), the second-highest peak in Sumatra after Mount Kerinci (3,805 m).

Ecology 

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Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the two remaining habitats for Sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii). In 1971, Herman Rijksen established the Ketambe Research Station, a specially designated research area for the orangutan. Other mammals found in the park are the Sumatran elephant, Sumatran tiger, Sumatran rhinoceros, siamang, Sumatran serow, sambar deer and leopard cat.

After researchers put 28 camera traps in July 2011, 6 months later the researchers found one male and six females, and predicted the population is not more than 27 Sumatran rhinos, of which the total population is predicted to be around 200 in Sumatra and Malaysia, half the population of 15 years ago.

Water supply

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The first signs of reduced water replenishment have already been seen in and around the Leuser Ecosystem. Groundwater reservoirs are rapidly being exhausted, and several rivers fall completely dry during part of the year. This has severe consequences for the local community. Both households and industries need to anticipate water shortages and higher costs for water.

Tourism

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Low-impact ecotourism can be one of the most important sustainable, nonconsumptive uses of Leuser, thereby giving local communities powerful incentives for conservation. Given the opportunities to view wildlife such as orangutans, some experts view ecotourism as a major potential source of revenue for communities living around Leuser.

Tangkahan trekking

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A 7- to 8-hour drive from Medan, Tangkahan is visited by 4,000 foreign tourists and 40,000 domestic/local tourists a year. Modest inns are available, but generation set electricity is limited. Many Tangkahan people nowadays work for tourism and avoid illegal logging, with education sometimes past the elementary school, but with training, they can serve the tourists well. All tourists should enter Tangkahan Visitor Center first, and choose the various packages, with up to 4 day and 3 night packages, the prices are fixed even for the porters. Trekking can be done by foot or using elephants.

Biodiversity

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People living in areas with a high biodiversity value tend to be relatively poor. Hence, the highest economic values for biodiversity are likely to be found within institutions and people in wealthy countries. Funds can come from several sources, including bioprospecting, the GEF, and grants from international NGOs (with donations possibly being proportional to biodiversity value).


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Indonesia Travel Destinations: Aceh Tsunami Museum

Indonesia Travel Destinations: Aceh Tsunami Museum

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The Aceh Tsunami Museum, located in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, is a museum designed as a symbolic reminder of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami disaster, as well as an educational center and an emergency disaster shelter in case the area is ever hit by a tsunami again.

Design

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The Aceh Tsunami Museum was designed by Indonesian architect (and future mayor of Bandung) Ridwan Kamil. The museum is a 2,500 m2 four-story structure; its long curving walls covered in geometric reliefs. Inside, visitors enter through a dark, narrow corridor between two high walls of water — meant to recreate the noise and panic of the tsunami itself. The museum walls are adorned with images of people performing the Saman dance, a symbolic gesture dedicated to the strength, discipline and religious beliefs of the Acehnese people.[2] From above, the roof resembles a tsunami. The ground floor is modelled on the kind of traditional raised Acehnese houses that were best equipped to survive the tsunami.

The building acknowledges both the victims, whose names are to be inscribed on the wall of one of the museum’s internal chambers, and the surviving members of the local community.

In addition to its role as a memorial for those who died, the museum also offers a place of refuge from future such events, including an "escape hill" for visitors to run to in the event of another tsunami.

Collection

Exhibitions at the museum include an electronic simulation of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, in addition to photographs of victims and exhibits featuring stories from survivors of the disaster.

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Indonesia Travel Destinations: Baiturrahman Grand Mosque

Indonesia Travel Destinations: Baiturrahman Grand Mosque

pic. wikipedia, google.com

Baiturrahman Grand Mosque is a Mosque located in the center of Banda Aceh city, Aceh Province, Indonesia. The Baiturrahman Grand Mosque is a symbol of religion, culture, spirit, strength, struggle and nationalism of Acehnese people. The mosque is a landmark of Banda Aceh and has survived the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

History

The original Masjid Raya ("Grand Mosque") was built in 1612 during the reign of Sultan Iskandar Muda. Some say the original mosque was built even earlier in 1292 by Sultan Alaidin Mahmudsyah. The original royal mosque featured a multi-tiered thatched roof, a typical feature of Acehnese architecture.[1]

When the Colonial administration of the Dutch East Indies attacked the Kraton During the First Aceh Expedition on 10 April 1873, the Acehnese attacked the KNIL from the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque. From some flares shot onto the thatched roof, the mosque caught fire. General van Swieten promised the local rulers he would rebuild the mosque and create a warm place for mercy. In 1879 the Dutch rebuilt the Mosque Baiturrahman as a gift to — and to reduce the anger of — the Acehnese. Construction only began in 1879, when the first stone was laid by Tengku Qadhi Malikul Adil, who became its first imam, and was completed on 27 December 1881 during the reign of Muhammad Daud Syah, the last sultan of Aceh. Many Acehnese initially refused to pray at Baiturrahman because it was built by the Dutch, whom they were warring against. Nowadays, however, it is a source of pride for Banda Aceh.[2]

pic. wikipedia, google.com

Before 1935, the new Baiturrahman Grand Mosque featured one dome and one minaret.
At first, the mosque featured only one dome and one minaret. More domes and minarets were added in 1935, 1958 and 1982. Today the mosque has seven domes and eight minarets, including the highest in Banda Aceh.

The mosque survived the 2004 earthquake and tsunami with minor damages such as wall cracks. The earthquake had slightly tilted and cracked the 35-meter minaret by the main gate. During the disaster, the mosque served as a temporary shelter for displaced persons and only reopened for prayers after two weeks.

Architecture and design

The mosque was originally designed by the Dutch architect Gerrit Bruins.[4][5] The design was subsequently adapted by L.P. Luijks, who also supervised the construction work done by contractor Lie A Sie.[4] The design chosen is Mughal revival style, characterized by grand domes and minarets. The unique black domes are constructed from hard wood shingles combined as tiles.

pic. wikipedia, google.com

The interior is decorated with relieved wall and pillars, marble staircase and floor from China, stained-glass windows from Belgium, well-decorated wooden doors, and ornate bronze chandeliers. The building stones are from the Netherlands. At the time of its completion, this new design presented a stark contrast compared with the original mosque that many Acehnese refused to pray in the mosque, because it was built by the Dutch "infidels". Today however, the mosque has become the pride of Banda Aceh.

Gunawan Tjahjono (1998). Indonesian Heritage-Architecture. Singapore: Archipelago Press. pp. 81–82. ISBN 981-3018-30-5.
http://www.travelmarker.nl/bestemmingen/azie/indonesie/bezienswaardigheden/banda_aceh.htm
http://lestariheritage.net/aceh/webpages/sites01.html Aceh Heritage
http://atjehpost.co/articles/read/4881/Amazing-Baiturrahman-Kisah-Awal-Mula-Masjid-Raya-Banda-Aceh Amazing Baiturrahman; Kisah Awal Mula Masjid Raya Banda Aceh
Van der Klaauw, C.J., ed. (24 December 1940). Geslachtslijst Bruins. p. 6.Oey, Eric M. Sumatra. Periplus Editions (HK) Ltd., 1996.

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