Mass Customization is the new paradigm that replaces mass production, which is no longer suitable for today’s turbulent markets, growing product variety, and opportunities for e-commerce. Mass customization proactively manages product variety in the environment of rapidly evolving markets and products, many niche markets, and individually customized products sold through stores or over the internet e-commerce system.
Mass customizes can customize products quickly for individual customers or for niche markets at better than mass production efficiency and speed. Using the same principles, mass customizes can build to order both customized products and standard products without forecasts, inventory, or purchasing delays.
Mass customization is the new paradigm in manufacturing whereby companies personalize or customize products or services for individuals at a mass production price. (Davis, 1987) (Cited in Pines, 1993). It is a flexible process and structure of the organization to mass produce variety of products designed specifically to meet customers’ requirements.
Today, advance technology in production enables a firm to produce products customized based on the demand of the customers in bulk. The advance of technology changed customer standards of living by the increase demand of personalized products that that suits their own preference, taste and style. Hence, customers can only be satisfied when the products are customized to meet their requirements. The living standards of the customers will only improve when their requirements are met. (Zhan, 2009)
In recent years, enterprises gained tremendous competition advantages by implementing large-scale customization. Some experts predicted that large-scale customization would gradually replace traditional mass production and become the manufacturing mainstream mode. (Zhan, 2009) Thus, making companies not only having a cost reduction avenue and achieve economic of scale. With that, companies can also increase wages of their staffs which will eventually increase the standard of living of the staffs and put a lid on inflation.
Interactive technologies such as internet, allows customers to interact with the producers and specify the unique requirements which are then manufactured by the automated system. (Bapna et all, 2000) Companies such as Dell utilize e-commerce system from which their website enables customers to customize their own laptops to their preferences then order and make payment online. The system will then list down the specific requirements of the customer and assemble the laptop, then deliver to the respective customer (Kepczyk, 2008)
E-commerce system will benefit both the customer and Dell as the manufacturer. Customers will advantage from buying a products that meets their requirement efficiently, while Dell achieve not only economic of scale through mass customization, but also operational cost reduction in distribution system. Therefore, e-commerce plays a big role in distributing customized products to the end customers directly.
Moreover, mass customization can also become a competitive edge in manufacturing technique. Mass customization allows producers to reduce waste and cost of production that does not meet the customers demand. One would argue that market forecasting can reduce the risk. But as the society demand and preferences changes, mass customization is the solution to produce in large volume at the same time meeting the customers demand. (Blecker and Friedrich, 2006) This manufacturing technique is proven the most efficient approach for manufacturers such as Toyota and Dell.
Mass customization is the new paradigm in manufacturing whereby companies personalize or customize products or services for individuals at a mass production price. (Davis, 1987) (Cited in Pines, 1993). It is a flexible process and structure of the organization to mass produce variety of products designed specifically to meet customers’ requirements.
Today, advance technology in production enables a firm to produce products customized based on the demand of the customers in bulk. The advance of technology changed customer standards of living by the increase demand of personalized products that that suits their own preference, taste and style. Hence, customers can only be satisfied when the products are customized to meet their requirements. The living standards of the customers will only improve when their requirements are met. (Zhan, 2009)
In recent years, enterprises gained tremendous competition advantages by implementing large-scale customization. Some experts predicted that large-scale customization would gradually replace traditional mass production and become the manufacturing mainstream mode. (Zhan, 2009) Thus, making companies not only having a cost reduction avenue and achieve economic of scale. With that, companies can also increase wages of their staffs which will eventually increase the standard of living of the staffs and put a lid on inflation.
Interactive technologies such as internet, allows customers to interact with the producers and specify the unique requirements which are then manufactured by the automated system. (Bapna et all, 2000) Companies such as Dell utilize e-commerce system from which their website enables customers to customize their own laptops to their preferences then order and make payment online. The system will then list down the specific requirements of the customer and assemble the laptop, then deliver to the respective customer (Kepczyk, 2008)
E-commerce system will benefit both the customer and Dell as the manufacturer. Customers will advantage from buying a products that meets their requirement efficiently, while Dell achieve not only economic of scale through mass customization, but also operational cost reduction in distribution system. Therefore, e-commerce plays a big role in distributing customized products to the end customers directly.
Moreover, mass customization can also become a competitive edge in manufacturing technique. Mass customization allows producers to reduce waste and cost of production that does not meet the customers demand. One would argue that market forecasting can reduce the risk. But as the society demand and preferences changes, mass customization is the solution to produce in large volume at the same time meeting the customers demand. (Blecker and Friedrich, 2006) This manufacturing technique is proven the most efficient approach for manufacturers such as Toyota and Dell.
In aircraft manufacturing industry, mass customization is also practiced. Aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing manifest different types of variety and customization in producing their finish goods. Hence, these manufacturers encounter challenges in producing customized products.
Gilmore and Pine (1997) identify four product perspective customization strategies; collaborative, cosmetic, adaptive and transparent. (Appendix 2) Hence, aircraft manufacturing falls under the collaborative customization category. In collaborative customization, the firm conducts a dialogue with individual customers to help them articulate their needs, to identify the precise offering that fulfills those needs, and to make customized products for them. (Gilmore and Pine, 1997) A customer defines the needs, wants, requirements and specification of the aircraft, only then the manufacturer assembles the products.
For instant, when Malaysia Airlines orders a new Airbus A380, the Airbus Company will ask the specifications, advance features, additional needs and preferences as well as the painting of the aircraft exterior. Thus, making the production of the aircraft is collaborative between the customer’s specific request and the company.
Some challenges of the product perspective are the miscommunication and misdirection from the respective customer, making the producer to mistakenly customize the product. Hence, a challenge for the manufacturer is to match the product customized exactly with the specification required.
While the product perspective oversees the manifestations of variety and customized product, the process perspective looks at where in the production value chain the company implements the customization (Comstock et al, 2004).
Generally, the process perspective is either to make to stock or (push system) or make to order (pull system). Make to stock (MTS) is when manufacture products for stock based on demand forecasts, which can be regarded as push-type production. MTS has been required to prevent opportunity loss due to stock out. While Make to order (MTO) is when manufactures starts production once the customer places the order (Anderson, 2004).
Aircraft industry as mentioned above only manufactures the aircrafts once an order of a specific aircraft is accepted from the customers. Thus, making the aircraft manufacturers practice MTO or make to order.
A big challenge in make to order or pull manufacturing system is the time gap between the order and the actual delivery of the finished good. It is a huge challenge for aircraft manufacturers to meet the promised time of delivery to the airline industry.
Lastly, mass customization must also follow the system perspective whereby it select enablers that makes customized product variety and customization possible are the focus. Zipkin (2001) outlined three main elements of mass customization that are connected by powerful communication links. They are; customer elicitation, process flexibility and logistics.
These communication links are the system perspective that aids makes mass customization possible. Some to mention are systems such as computer aided design (CAD), supply chain management system (SCM) and even customer relationship management system (CRM). These systems, including the e-commerce system acts as intermediary that links the customers to producers are those that enable mass customization to work at a specific point.
Yet, system perspective also having the challenge of system failures that might occur to the automated system they used in providing the customized product. Thus, making companies to always enhance and upgrade their system in order to avoid system failures.
Anderson (2004) argued that there are three ways to customize products: modular, adjustable, and dimensional customization. Modular customization usually modules are literally building blocks that can customize a product by assembling various combinations of modules. Examples of modules would include many components in automobiles such as engines, transmissions, audio equipment and tire.
Adjustable customization on the other hand is a reversible way to customize products. Adjustments could be infinitely variable. Discrete adjustments, or configurations, would represent few choices, such as those provided by electronic switches, jumpers, cables, or discrete software.
While dimensional customization, involves a permanent cutting-to-fit, mixing, or tailoring. Dimensional customization could be infinite or have a selection of discrete choices. Examples of infinite dimensional customization would include the tailoring of clothing and grinding eyeglasses.
Overseeing that there are many methods of product customization, this shows that mass customization has the potential to create or develop new products to be offered to the market. Hence, through mass customization, more varieties and featured product evolves and are created by manufacturers.
A good example is the giant A380 Airbus aircraft that was designed after customization of aircrafts to accommodate more passengers. Airbus A380 is right now the largest passenger plane ever made in the world to accommodate long haul flights that enables airlines to save on petroleum cost. The invention of the new airbus is a process of customization both modular and adjustable.Therefore, it can be concluded that mass customization has drive new product development and product creation to exist and enhance the creation of new products that will accommodate the changing needs and preferences of the customers.
In conclusion, mass customization has become a new paradigm in the manufacturing industry which will shift mass production as it is proven more efficient and effective in both reducing cost and ensuring profitability of certain product.
Hence, with the aid of e-commerce and advance technology, a complex and specified customization can easily be done by producers by enhancing the information flow in the supply chain management. Through disintermediation, producers not only saves cost of product distribution, but also able to meet the exact demand and interact with their respective customers.
Furthermore, mass customization not only beneficial to the producers extends, but also to the customers as they achieve a higher degree of satisfaction through the products that are customized to meet their personal requirements. Thus, it will also drive the creation of new products as the demand of customers’ changes.
18 Oct 2010
Kiprah Mahasiswa Indonesia sebagai Duta Bangsa
Kongres Persatuan Pelajar Indonesia di Malaysia (PPIM) dengan sukses dilaksanakan di University College of Technology and Innovations (UCTI) Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia mulai 12 - 13 Juni 2010. Acara tahunan ini tidak hanya menyatukan mahasiswa – mahasiswi Indonesia yang sedang belajar di Malaysia namun menjadi sebuah wadah pembelajaran demokrasi dengan memilih presiden PPIM periode 2010 -2011.
Kongres tahun ini menangkat tema Peran Mahasiswa Indonesia dalam Persaingan Global. Diharapkan muncul pemimpin – pemimpin yang tidak hanya memiliki intelektualitas tinggi, namun dapat pula berperan aktif di persaingan global jelas Danial Hamzah Abdat, ketua pelaksana acara ini.
Dalam sambutannya, Widyarka Ryananta – menteri konselor penerangan Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia (KBRI) Kuala Lumpur mengingatkan bahwa seluruh delegasi yang hadir dalam kongres ini mewakili 10.000 mahasiswa Indonesia di Malaysia. Tugas utama mahasiswa adalah belajar dengan giat, namun Mahasiswa Indonesia di Malaysia juga dapat menjadi duta bangsa yang menjadi agen - agen peredam konflik bilateral yang kerap terjadi antara Indonesia dan Malaysia.
Hal yang sama juga diutarakan oleh Gurpardeep Singh, wakil presiden bagian operasional UCTI yang memaparkan di UCTI terdapat lebih dari 400 mahasiswa Indonesia. Mahasiswa Indonesia tidak hanya cerdas secara akademis, namun selalu menonjol diantara berbagai mahasiswa UCTI yang berasal dari 62 negara yang berbeda. Hal ini membuat UCTI sangat bangga menjadi tuan rumah kongres PPIM 2010 ke-12.
Kongres PPIM ini di ikuti oleh lebih dari 120 perwakilan mahasiswa Indonesia dari 25 institusi pendidikan di Malaysia. Dalam acara ini, terpilih saudara Mohammad Hamidi dari University Malaya (UM) sebagai presiden PPIM periode 2010 – 2011 secara aklamasi.
Selain dari pada itu, kongres ke-12 ini juga meresmikan 4 cabang PPIM baru, yaitu; Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMap), University Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Universiti Teknikal Malaysia (UTEM) dan University College Sedaya International (UCSI) serta 1 cabang persiapan dari Selangor International Islamic University College (SIIUC).
Acara peresmian serta serah terima jabatan disaksikan oleh Drs. Muhammad Imran Hanafi, atase pendidikan KBRI Kuala Lumpur yang memberikan pengarahan serta menutup resmi kongres yang akan kembali digelar di Kolej Univeristi Insaniyah, Alor Setar tahun depan.
UCTI, Kuala Lumpur : 13 Juni 2010
Kongres tahun ini menangkat tema Peran Mahasiswa Indonesia dalam Persaingan Global. Diharapkan muncul pemimpin – pemimpin yang tidak hanya memiliki intelektualitas tinggi, namun dapat pula berperan aktif di persaingan global jelas Danial Hamzah Abdat, ketua pelaksana acara ini.
Dalam sambutannya, Widyarka Ryananta – menteri konselor penerangan Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia (KBRI) Kuala Lumpur mengingatkan bahwa seluruh delegasi yang hadir dalam kongres ini mewakili 10.000 mahasiswa Indonesia di Malaysia. Tugas utama mahasiswa adalah belajar dengan giat, namun Mahasiswa Indonesia di Malaysia juga dapat menjadi duta bangsa yang menjadi agen - agen peredam konflik bilateral yang kerap terjadi antara Indonesia dan Malaysia.
Hal yang sama juga diutarakan oleh Gurpardeep Singh, wakil presiden bagian operasional UCTI yang memaparkan di UCTI terdapat lebih dari 400 mahasiswa Indonesia. Mahasiswa Indonesia tidak hanya cerdas secara akademis, namun selalu menonjol diantara berbagai mahasiswa UCTI yang berasal dari 62 negara yang berbeda. Hal ini membuat UCTI sangat bangga menjadi tuan rumah kongres PPIM 2010 ke-12.
Kongres PPIM ini di ikuti oleh lebih dari 120 perwakilan mahasiswa Indonesia dari 25 institusi pendidikan di Malaysia. Dalam acara ini, terpilih saudara Mohammad Hamidi dari University Malaya (UM) sebagai presiden PPIM periode 2010 – 2011 secara aklamasi.
Selain dari pada itu, kongres ke-12 ini juga meresmikan 4 cabang PPIM baru, yaitu; Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMap), University Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Universiti Teknikal Malaysia (UTEM) dan University College Sedaya International (UCSI) serta 1 cabang persiapan dari Selangor International Islamic University College (SIIUC).
Acara peresmian serta serah terima jabatan disaksikan oleh Drs. Muhammad Imran Hanafi, atase pendidikan KBRI Kuala Lumpur yang memberikan pengarahan serta menutup resmi kongres yang akan kembali digelar di Kolej Univeristi Insaniyah, Alor Setar tahun depan.
UCTI, Kuala Lumpur : 13 Juni 2010
Analyzing the Malaysian Business Environment
Prior to setting up a business or expanding a business to a new environment, it is essential that businesses take note of the environment factors effecting the business operations. Living and studying in Malaysia made me to analyze the environment factors as below.
Political-Legal Environment
Political stability is an important consideration in making investment decisions. Jürgen (2000) in Smith (2005) outlined factors leading to political instability, namely corruption, collusion and nepotism, non-democratic systems of government, inadequate electoral systems, lack of separation of powers and dependency of the judiciary.
Moreover, political risk can be measured in terms of internal strive to conflict between neighboring countries, and other unforeseen dangers such as conflicts, war and terrorism. Thus all generates compiling effects to the businesses invested in the country.
Malaysia as a federal constitution monarchy state which also adopts parliamentary democracy can be considered to have a very stable government. Malaysian government known as National Front consists of UMNO (United Malays National Organization) and parties from other communities such as MCA (Malaysian Chinese Association) and MIC (Malaysian Indian Congress) can work towards common benefits peacefully resulting in democratic elections in the country (Trade Chakra, 2009).
However, internal conflicts due to ethno-religious differences often occur in a complex society like Malaysia, resulting to political unrest in the country. For instant, controversy over use of the word ‘Allah’ resulting in tensions between different beliefs in the society and even the parliament (Mydans, 2010). Hence, a number of high – profile corruption cases involving bribes has made doing business in Malaysia inconvenience (BACP, 2010).
In addition, Malaysian government has numerous legislations in favor of the indigenous people and the Malaysian citizens in form of trade law and investment policies intended to protect the local economy. (Trade Charaka, 2009) Despite having these tensions, Malaysia is still considered politically stabile remained intact for foreign investors to expand their businesses.
Economic Environment
A stable political environment, effective bureaucracy, flexible economic policies, export-oriented industrialization and inflow of foreign direct investments (FDIs) has benefit Malaysia’s economy over the past decade. (Davies, 2009) This brought prosperity and a high level of confidence to the majority of the population in form of their purchasing power.
Malaysia has a healthy rapidly growing economy with a low inflation rate and currency exchange tightly regulated and pegged to the US dollar (Mohamed, 2001). Regardless the government has been criticized for state intervention over economic development and the imposition of capital and currency exchange controls in 1998, (Mohamed, 2001) the government is now reconsidering to liberalize the economy.
In 2008, Malaysia also suffers from the global economic crisis. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth significantly drops to 0.1%, compared with an average of 6.3% in the first 9 months of the year (Abdul Razak, 2009).The decline mainly due to contraction in export value of 13.4%. The fall in exports has adversely affected economic growth of the country (Abdul Razak, 2009). Hence, the government promises higher economic development, through stimulus packages offered to aid the local economy in 2010.
Despite the global economical crisis and the increase of taxes and tariffs, Malaysia still remains among top 10 competitive economies in the region benefiting from strong demand in Asia and efficient economical policies the businesses in to invest (Mohamed, 2010). Thus investors are encouraged to devote in businesses to the Malaysian market.
Social Environment
Malaysia is indeed complex having a high level of heterogeneity of cultures, races, religions and beliefs domestically. Islam being the majority constitutes many teachings that affect the socio-cultural perspective of the people (Davies, 2009). For instants, norms and ethical issues in the society are aligned to the Islamic law such as having Halal certifications for all public consumed products in the society. Thus businesses are obliged to follow these norms as well as being socially responsible to the community.
Moreover, with the constantly changing demographics, Malaysia’s socio-cultural factors implies on the trends and buying behaviour of the people, thus purchasing power are also affected due to the nations’ unstable income rate (Davies, 2009). Trends such as technology procurement, healthier lifestyle and more women in the workforce derive Malaysia’s economy to grow rapidly. Therefore, being socially cautious and responsible with aid of the media is the best approach in entering the Malaysian business market.
Technological Environment
Malaysia has the every opportunity to advance the technological development of the country. Technologies for production, transportation and communication have been established as the nation infrastructure after the rise of Petronas and Malaysia’s economy in 2001. (Lai and Yap, 2004) Thus innovations and advancement of technologies are encouraged over research and development as well as through higher education all over the country.
Innovations on green technologies have shown the excellence and the capabilities of Malaysia in producing better methods to answer the global climate change (Matrade, 2010). While advancement in nuclear technology secures Malaysia from shortage of electricity in the long run (Associated Press, 2010) Hence, the nations’ quality of internet connection services has been upgraded to cater the growing population demand for internet (Bernama, 2010)
Although advancement of technologies in Malaysia has rapidly been endorse by the government to cater to the needs of the people as well as the businesses, intellectual property rights and patents would need strengthening to avoid misuse of technologies available. Yet, businesses to operate in Malaysia shall have nothing to worry about the technological development of the country both as infrastructure and procurement.
Political-Legal Environment
Political stability is an important consideration in making investment decisions. Jürgen (2000) in Smith (2005) outlined factors leading to political instability, namely corruption, collusion and nepotism, non-democratic systems of government, inadequate electoral systems, lack of separation of powers and dependency of the judiciary.
Moreover, political risk can be measured in terms of internal strive to conflict between neighboring countries, and other unforeseen dangers such as conflicts, war and terrorism. Thus all generates compiling effects to the businesses invested in the country.
Malaysia as a federal constitution monarchy state which also adopts parliamentary democracy can be considered to have a very stable government. Malaysian government known as National Front consists of UMNO (United Malays National Organization) and parties from other communities such as MCA (Malaysian Chinese Association) and MIC (Malaysian Indian Congress) can work towards common benefits peacefully resulting in democratic elections in the country (Trade Chakra, 2009).
However, internal conflicts due to ethno-religious differences often occur in a complex society like Malaysia, resulting to political unrest in the country. For instant, controversy over use of the word ‘Allah’ resulting in tensions between different beliefs in the society and even the parliament (Mydans, 2010). Hence, a number of high – profile corruption cases involving bribes has made doing business in Malaysia inconvenience (BACP, 2010).
In addition, Malaysian government has numerous legislations in favor of the indigenous people and the Malaysian citizens in form of trade law and investment policies intended to protect the local economy. (Trade Charaka, 2009) Despite having these tensions, Malaysia is still considered politically stabile remained intact for foreign investors to expand their businesses.
Economic Environment
A stable political environment, effective bureaucracy, flexible economic policies, export-oriented industrialization and inflow of foreign direct investments (FDIs) has benefit Malaysia’s economy over the past decade. (Davies, 2009) This brought prosperity and a high level of confidence to the majority of the population in form of their purchasing power.
Malaysia has a healthy rapidly growing economy with a low inflation rate and currency exchange tightly regulated and pegged to the US dollar (Mohamed, 2001). Regardless the government has been criticized for state intervention over economic development and the imposition of capital and currency exchange controls in 1998, (Mohamed, 2001) the government is now reconsidering to liberalize the economy.
In 2008, Malaysia also suffers from the global economic crisis. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth significantly drops to 0.1%, compared with an average of 6.3% in the first 9 months of the year (Abdul Razak, 2009).The decline mainly due to contraction in export value of 13.4%. The fall in exports has adversely affected economic growth of the country (Abdul Razak, 2009). Hence, the government promises higher economic development, through stimulus packages offered to aid the local economy in 2010.
Despite the global economical crisis and the increase of taxes and tariffs, Malaysia still remains among top 10 competitive economies in the region benefiting from strong demand in Asia and efficient economical policies the businesses in to invest (Mohamed, 2010). Thus investors are encouraged to devote in businesses to the Malaysian market.
Social Environment
Malaysia is indeed complex having a high level of heterogeneity of cultures, races, religions and beliefs domestically. Islam being the majority constitutes many teachings that affect the socio-cultural perspective of the people (Davies, 2009). For instants, norms and ethical issues in the society are aligned to the Islamic law such as having Halal certifications for all public consumed products in the society. Thus businesses are obliged to follow these norms as well as being socially responsible to the community.
Moreover, with the constantly changing demographics, Malaysia’s socio-cultural factors implies on the trends and buying behaviour of the people, thus purchasing power are also affected due to the nations’ unstable income rate (Davies, 2009). Trends such as technology procurement, healthier lifestyle and more women in the workforce derive Malaysia’s economy to grow rapidly. Therefore, being socially cautious and responsible with aid of the media is the best approach in entering the Malaysian business market.
Technological Environment
Malaysia has the every opportunity to advance the technological development of the country. Technologies for production, transportation and communication have been established as the nation infrastructure after the rise of Petronas and Malaysia’s economy in 2001. (Lai and Yap, 2004) Thus innovations and advancement of technologies are encouraged over research and development as well as through higher education all over the country.
Innovations on green technologies have shown the excellence and the capabilities of Malaysia in producing better methods to answer the global climate change (Matrade, 2010). While advancement in nuclear technology secures Malaysia from shortage of electricity in the long run (Associated Press, 2010) Hence, the nations’ quality of internet connection services has been upgraded to cater the growing population demand for internet (Bernama, 2010)
Although advancement of technologies in Malaysia has rapidly been endorse by the government to cater to the needs of the people as well as the businesses, intellectual property rights and patents would need strengthening to avoid misuse of technologies available. Yet, businesses to operate in Malaysia shall have nothing to worry about the technological development of the country both as infrastructure and procurement.
15 Jan 2010
BALI : a heaven to visit
Bali is an island in Indonesia, and became one of the provinces of Indonesia. Bali lies between Java and Lombok Island. The provincial capital is Denpasar, located on the southern island. Bali is a majority of the population embraces Hinduism. Famous as a tourism destination with a unique variety of art-culture, wonderful beaches and awsome holiday activities destination. Bali is also called the Island of Gods and Goddesses.
Some major great places you should visit is Ubud, Bedugul, Pasar Sukawati, Tanah Lot, Tanjung Benoa and Nusa Dua,Uluwatu, Dreamland beach, Kuta, Lovina, Sanur, Batubulan, Jimbaran & Seminyak and of course Denpasar the main city.
Whether you want to throw yourself from high altitudes, hurtle down frothing rapids, explore the wonders of the deep or just lie back and take it easy, Bali is the place. The beach is a major factor in any island holiday and Bali has a coastline which offers every possible water activity, including surfing some of the best waves in the world, swimming with dolphins, cruises, snorkeling, diving, sailing, and parasailing.
Although not everybody knows it, Bali is also the perfect spot to do, safely, a lot of outdoor activities such as rafting, mountain cycling, hiking, and many others, including some extreme activities like bungee jumping and paragliding. Being an island is natural that most of the outdoor activities are related to the sea and indeed Bali is one of the best known place all over the pacific rim to do surfing.
Bali offers travelers of all ages numerous and various leisure activities to enjoy in this paradise island. Do not worry about your interests and budget, you can always find activities to satisfy your needs and pocket.
Some major great places you should visit is Ubud, Bedugul, Pasar Sukawati, Tanah Lot, Tanjung Benoa and Nusa Dua,Uluwatu, Dreamland beach, Kuta, Lovina, Sanur, Batubulan, Jimbaran & Seminyak and of course Denpasar the main city.
Whether you want to throw yourself from high altitudes, hurtle down frothing rapids, explore the wonders of the deep or just lie back and take it easy, Bali is the place. The beach is a major factor in any island holiday and Bali has a coastline which offers every possible water activity, including surfing some of the best waves in the world, swimming with dolphins, cruises, snorkeling, diving, sailing, and parasailing.
Although not everybody knows it, Bali is also the perfect spot to do, safely, a lot of outdoor activities such as rafting, mountain cycling, hiking, and many others, including some extreme activities like bungee jumping and paragliding. Being an island is natural that most of the outdoor activities are related to the sea and indeed Bali is one of the best known place all over the pacific rim to do surfing.
Bali offers travelers of all ages numerous and various leisure activities to enjoy in this paradise island. Do not worry about your interests and budget, you can always find activities to satisfy your needs and pocket.
2 Dec 2009
Life is so short
Saya pertama kali bertemu dengan Charles dan Linda Graham saat pasangan asal Amerika itu ikut serta dalam rombongan tur ke Eropa Barat yang saya pimpin, kira-kira 12 tahun yang lalu. Ketika itu mereka mengadakan perjalanan dalam rangka memperingati ulangtahun emas perkawinan mereka. Saya banyak berkomunikasi dengan mereka sebab mereka duduk di baris pertama pada bus yang kami kendarai sepanjang perjalanan, tepat di belakang bangku tempat duduk saya.
Selama 14 hari perjalanan mengunjungi 9 kota di 5 negara, pasangan yang sudah berusia lebih dari 70 tahun itu kerap menjadi perhatian saya. Bukan karena saya mengkhawatirkan kondisi fisik mereka yang mungkin kelelahan akibat perjalanan panjang, karena untuk ukuran kebanyakan orang seusianya, mereka tergolong cukup sehat dan lincah. Yang saya perhatikan justru bagaimana mereka tampak begitu menikmati setiap momen dalam perjalanan tersebut.
‘Pengamatan’ yang saya lakukan secara sembunyi-sembunyi terhadap mereka –entah dengan mencuri pandang melalui kaca spion bus yang kebetulan mengarah langsung pada mereka, atau memperhatikan bagaimana mereka berunding untuk menentukan mau pergi ke mana ketika acara bebas—membuat saya melihat ada sesuatu yang ‘berbeda’ diantara keduanya dibandingkan para peserta lain. Keduanya tampak sangat ceria, yang terpancar jelas dari raut wajah mereka yang sudah dipenuhi keriput.
Rasa penasaran saya atas pasangan Charles dan Linda belum sempat terjawab ketika perjalanan yang kami lakukan sudah harus berakhir. Seluruh rombongan berpisah untuk kembali ke tempat tinggal masing-masing, sementara saya melanjutkan hidup saya seperti biasa.
Setahun berikutnya, ketika ditugaskan untuk memimpin sebuah rombongan tur ke Eropa Timur, secara tak sengaja saya bertemu lagi dengan Charles dan Linda yang ternyata juga ikut serta dalam rombongan tur yang saya pimpin saat itu. Kali ini mereka melakukan perjalanan untuk merayakan ulangtahun perkawinan yang ke-51.
Lantaran sudah saling kenal sebelumnya, kami menjadi cepat akrab. Sebenarnya, saat itu saya hanyalah seorang tur leader pengganti lantaran tur leader yang seharusnya memimpin perjalanan tersebut mendadak jatuh sakit. Di awal perjalanan, saya berterus terang kepada para peserta tur bahwa saya kurang familiar dengan rute perjalanan kali ini.
Di luar dugaan, Charles secara diam-diam berbicara banyak tentang saya kepada para peserta tur lainnya berdasarkan pengalaman yang dialaminya saat ikut serta dalam rombongan tur yang saya pimpin setahun sebelumnya. Tentang bagaimana saya sudah menjadi tur leader yang menurut dia sangat baik dan caring serta berbagai hal-hal positif lainnya.
Berkat dia pulalah, sebagian besar peserta tur jadi memiliki penilaian positif terhadap saya. Konsekuensinya, saya jadi lebih tertantang untuk berbuat semaksimal mungkin, memberikan kualitas layanan yang terbaik dan memuaskan.
Pengalaman memimpin grup tur ke Eropa Timur saat itu adalah awal perjalanan karir saya sebagai seorang tur leader, namun justru di saat saya merasa banyak kemungkinan untuk melakukan kesalahan karena minimnya ‘jam terbang’ dan penguasaan medan, hampir seluruh peserta tur malah memberikan dukungan positif atas apa yang saya lakukan saat itu sehingga saya merasakan situasi yang nyaman sepanjang perjalanan tersebut. Dan semua itu disebabkan karena berbagai pernyataan positif yang disampaikan oleh Charles.
“Hidup ini terlalu singkat untuk dijalani, kalau bisa membuatnya lebih indah, kenapa harus dijalani dengan airmata. Kalau bisa memotivasi orang lain dengan pujian, mengapa kita harus menyampaikannya dengan celaan?” demikian kata Linda saat saya menyampaikan terimakasih atas ‘promosi’ yang dilakukan suaminya untuk saya.
Prinsip life is too short yang dianut oleh Charles dan Linda itu membuat saya merenung tentang makna hidup yang sudah saya jalani saat ini. Usia pernikahan yang mereka jalani hingga sanggup mencapai angka di atas 50 tahun adalah suatu hal yang langka, dan menurut saya perjalanan hidup mengarungi kehidupan selama 70 tahun lebih bukanlah waktu yang singkat pula.
“Kita tidak pernah tahu kapan hidup ini bakal berakhir, kapan saat terakhir kita bakal bertemu dengan orang yang kita kasihi. Bisa saja besok saya atau kamu dipanggil Tuhan, dan alangkah menyesalnya kita ketika menyadari betapa banyak hal yang sebenarnya ingin kita capai, ternyata tidak pernah terwujudkan.
Jika setiap saat kita berpikir bahwa hidup ini terlalu singkat untuk dijalani, maka kita akan termotivasi untuk memberikan makna terbaik pada hari-hari yang kita jalani saat ini,” demikian ungkap Charles panjang lebar. “Dan jika pada kenyataannya kita diberi anugerah untuk menjalani hidup ini lebih lama, bukankah hari-hari yang sudah kita lalui bakal menjadi rangkaian kenangan nan indah?
Selama kehidupan pernikahan kami, rasanya kami tidak sempat meributkan hal-hal kecil karena waktu kami telah tersita dengan pemikiran bagaimana mengisi hari-hari ‘pendek’ kami dengan sebaik mungkin.”
Perkataan Charles dan Linda itu terus melekat di benak saya hingga kini. Prinsip hidup yang mereka anut telah berhasil mempengaruhi jalan pemikiran saya, sehingga sejak saat itu saya menjalani kehidupan dengan lebih bersemangat.
Ketika menikah beberapa tahun yang lalu, saya bersama istri juga telah bersepakat untuk menjalani kehidupan ini dengan prinsip ‘life is so short’. Setiap saat kami selalu berpikir bagaimana caranya agar mengisi hari-hari kami dengan sebaik mungkin. Peringatan hari ulang tahun saya dan istri, maupun ulangtahun pernikahan, kami menjadi ajang untuk introspeksi tentang hari-hari yang telah kami lewati bersama, sekaligus merencanakan apa yang akan kami lakukan untuk kurun waktu setahun ke depan.
Kami menjadi lebih ekspresif dalam mengungkapkan isi hati dan perasaan masing-masing dan tidak ragu-ragu untuk saling mempersembahkan yang terbaik dan berupaya untuk saling membahagiakan satu sama lain. Setiap kali ada konflik yang terjadi, kami berupaya untuk menyelesaikannya dengan sesegera mungkin.
Banyak orang yang mengatakan bahwa kehidupan rumah tangga yang kami jalani barulah ‘seumur jagung’, sehingga saat ini kami baru menikmati yang manis-manis saja. Memang benar, selama hampir dua tahun kehidupan pernikahan kami, hampir bisa dipastikan kami jarang bertengkar. Perselisihan memang ada, namun kami berdua senantiasa mengupayakannya agar persoalan yang kami hadapi tidak melebar dan meluas ke mana-mana. “If you can make it simple, why make it hard?”, begitu kata Linda.
Apabila setiap saat kami mempertahankan prinsip yang sama dalam menjalani hidup ini, dan ketika nantinya kami dikaruniakan umur panjang untuk bisa merayakan ulangtahun pernikahan yang ke-10, 20, 30 atau bahkan yang ke-50 seperti Charles dan Linda, wow.... betapa bernilainya hari-hari yang telah kami jalani selama ini, dan betapa banyak kenangan indah yang telah terukir sepanjang kehidupan ini.
Dan kalaupun toh kami tidak dikaruniakan usia yang panjang, setidaknya kami berdua sudah pernah melewati hari-hari yang indah bersama-sama.
Beberapa bulan yang lalu, saya mendapat kiriman surat dari Linda (kami memang sering saling berkirim surat semenjak pertemuan kami di Eropa bertahun-tahun lalu). Di suratnya Linda menceritakan bahwa Charles telah meninggal dunia, beberapa saat setelah peringatan ulangtahun pernikahan mereka yang ke-62. Herannya, saya tidak menangkap kesan kesedihan di dalam suratnya tersebut.
Bahkan dia mengatakan bahwa mereka berdua sudah sejak lama bersiap menghadapi momen perpisahan yang tak mungkin terelakkan oleh manusia manapun di dunia ini. Linda mengungkapkan bagaimana beruntungnya mereka bisa melewati saat kebersamaan yang panjang, dan bersyukur atas begitu banyak peristiwa yang boleh mereka jalani berdua. Dan ketika memang ‘saat’ itu tiba, yang terungkap justru rasa syukur karena telah diberi banyak kesempatan untuk menjalani hari demi hari bersama dengan orang yang dicintainya.
When you think your life is so short and when you always keep trying to fill up your days with cheers and laughter; someday you’ll be amazed, how many great moments you’ve been through in your lifetime. Itulah kalimat penutup yang ditulis Linda Graham dalam surat terakhir yang dikirimkannya pada saya.
Ditulis oleh: Agung Basuki - www.travelhemat.com
( Traveller, writer and my friend)
Selama 14 hari perjalanan mengunjungi 9 kota di 5 negara, pasangan yang sudah berusia lebih dari 70 tahun itu kerap menjadi perhatian saya. Bukan karena saya mengkhawatirkan kondisi fisik mereka yang mungkin kelelahan akibat perjalanan panjang, karena untuk ukuran kebanyakan orang seusianya, mereka tergolong cukup sehat dan lincah. Yang saya perhatikan justru bagaimana mereka tampak begitu menikmati setiap momen dalam perjalanan tersebut.
‘Pengamatan’ yang saya lakukan secara sembunyi-sembunyi terhadap mereka –entah dengan mencuri pandang melalui kaca spion bus yang kebetulan mengarah langsung pada mereka, atau memperhatikan bagaimana mereka berunding untuk menentukan mau pergi ke mana ketika acara bebas—membuat saya melihat ada sesuatu yang ‘berbeda’ diantara keduanya dibandingkan para peserta lain. Keduanya tampak sangat ceria, yang terpancar jelas dari raut wajah mereka yang sudah dipenuhi keriput.
Rasa penasaran saya atas pasangan Charles dan Linda belum sempat terjawab ketika perjalanan yang kami lakukan sudah harus berakhir. Seluruh rombongan berpisah untuk kembali ke tempat tinggal masing-masing, sementara saya melanjutkan hidup saya seperti biasa.
Setahun berikutnya, ketika ditugaskan untuk memimpin sebuah rombongan tur ke Eropa Timur, secara tak sengaja saya bertemu lagi dengan Charles dan Linda yang ternyata juga ikut serta dalam rombongan tur yang saya pimpin saat itu. Kali ini mereka melakukan perjalanan untuk merayakan ulangtahun perkawinan yang ke-51.
Lantaran sudah saling kenal sebelumnya, kami menjadi cepat akrab. Sebenarnya, saat itu saya hanyalah seorang tur leader pengganti lantaran tur leader yang seharusnya memimpin perjalanan tersebut mendadak jatuh sakit. Di awal perjalanan, saya berterus terang kepada para peserta tur bahwa saya kurang familiar dengan rute perjalanan kali ini.
Di luar dugaan, Charles secara diam-diam berbicara banyak tentang saya kepada para peserta tur lainnya berdasarkan pengalaman yang dialaminya saat ikut serta dalam rombongan tur yang saya pimpin setahun sebelumnya. Tentang bagaimana saya sudah menjadi tur leader yang menurut dia sangat baik dan caring serta berbagai hal-hal positif lainnya.
Berkat dia pulalah, sebagian besar peserta tur jadi memiliki penilaian positif terhadap saya. Konsekuensinya, saya jadi lebih tertantang untuk berbuat semaksimal mungkin, memberikan kualitas layanan yang terbaik dan memuaskan.
Pengalaman memimpin grup tur ke Eropa Timur saat itu adalah awal perjalanan karir saya sebagai seorang tur leader, namun justru di saat saya merasa banyak kemungkinan untuk melakukan kesalahan karena minimnya ‘jam terbang’ dan penguasaan medan, hampir seluruh peserta tur malah memberikan dukungan positif atas apa yang saya lakukan saat itu sehingga saya merasakan situasi yang nyaman sepanjang perjalanan tersebut. Dan semua itu disebabkan karena berbagai pernyataan positif yang disampaikan oleh Charles.
“Hidup ini terlalu singkat untuk dijalani, kalau bisa membuatnya lebih indah, kenapa harus dijalani dengan airmata. Kalau bisa memotivasi orang lain dengan pujian, mengapa kita harus menyampaikannya dengan celaan?” demikian kata Linda saat saya menyampaikan terimakasih atas ‘promosi’ yang dilakukan suaminya untuk saya.
Prinsip life is too short yang dianut oleh Charles dan Linda itu membuat saya merenung tentang makna hidup yang sudah saya jalani saat ini. Usia pernikahan yang mereka jalani hingga sanggup mencapai angka di atas 50 tahun adalah suatu hal yang langka, dan menurut saya perjalanan hidup mengarungi kehidupan selama 70 tahun lebih bukanlah waktu yang singkat pula.
“Kita tidak pernah tahu kapan hidup ini bakal berakhir, kapan saat terakhir kita bakal bertemu dengan orang yang kita kasihi. Bisa saja besok saya atau kamu dipanggil Tuhan, dan alangkah menyesalnya kita ketika menyadari betapa banyak hal yang sebenarnya ingin kita capai, ternyata tidak pernah terwujudkan.
Jika setiap saat kita berpikir bahwa hidup ini terlalu singkat untuk dijalani, maka kita akan termotivasi untuk memberikan makna terbaik pada hari-hari yang kita jalani saat ini,” demikian ungkap Charles panjang lebar. “Dan jika pada kenyataannya kita diberi anugerah untuk menjalani hidup ini lebih lama, bukankah hari-hari yang sudah kita lalui bakal menjadi rangkaian kenangan nan indah?
Selama kehidupan pernikahan kami, rasanya kami tidak sempat meributkan hal-hal kecil karena waktu kami telah tersita dengan pemikiran bagaimana mengisi hari-hari ‘pendek’ kami dengan sebaik mungkin.”
Perkataan Charles dan Linda itu terus melekat di benak saya hingga kini. Prinsip hidup yang mereka anut telah berhasil mempengaruhi jalan pemikiran saya, sehingga sejak saat itu saya menjalani kehidupan dengan lebih bersemangat.
Ketika menikah beberapa tahun yang lalu, saya bersama istri juga telah bersepakat untuk menjalani kehidupan ini dengan prinsip ‘life is so short’. Setiap saat kami selalu berpikir bagaimana caranya agar mengisi hari-hari kami dengan sebaik mungkin. Peringatan hari ulang tahun saya dan istri, maupun ulangtahun pernikahan, kami menjadi ajang untuk introspeksi tentang hari-hari yang telah kami lewati bersama, sekaligus merencanakan apa yang akan kami lakukan untuk kurun waktu setahun ke depan.
Kami menjadi lebih ekspresif dalam mengungkapkan isi hati dan perasaan masing-masing dan tidak ragu-ragu untuk saling mempersembahkan yang terbaik dan berupaya untuk saling membahagiakan satu sama lain. Setiap kali ada konflik yang terjadi, kami berupaya untuk menyelesaikannya dengan sesegera mungkin.
Banyak orang yang mengatakan bahwa kehidupan rumah tangga yang kami jalani barulah ‘seumur jagung’, sehingga saat ini kami baru menikmati yang manis-manis saja. Memang benar, selama hampir dua tahun kehidupan pernikahan kami, hampir bisa dipastikan kami jarang bertengkar. Perselisihan memang ada, namun kami berdua senantiasa mengupayakannya agar persoalan yang kami hadapi tidak melebar dan meluas ke mana-mana. “If you can make it simple, why make it hard?”, begitu kata Linda.
Apabila setiap saat kami mempertahankan prinsip yang sama dalam menjalani hidup ini, dan ketika nantinya kami dikaruniakan umur panjang untuk bisa merayakan ulangtahun pernikahan yang ke-10, 20, 30 atau bahkan yang ke-50 seperti Charles dan Linda, wow.... betapa bernilainya hari-hari yang telah kami jalani selama ini, dan betapa banyak kenangan indah yang telah terukir sepanjang kehidupan ini.
Dan kalaupun toh kami tidak dikaruniakan usia yang panjang, setidaknya kami berdua sudah pernah melewati hari-hari yang indah bersama-sama.
Beberapa bulan yang lalu, saya mendapat kiriman surat dari Linda (kami memang sering saling berkirim surat semenjak pertemuan kami di Eropa bertahun-tahun lalu). Di suratnya Linda menceritakan bahwa Charles telah meninggal dunia, beberapa saat setelah peringatan ulangtahun pernikahan mereka yang ke-62. Herannya, saya tidak menangkap kesan kesedihan di dalam suratnya tersebut.
Bahkan dia mengatakan bahwa mereka berdua sudah sejak lama bersiap menghadapi momen perpisahan yang tak mungkin terelakkan oleh manusia manapun di dunia ini. Linda mengungkapkan bagaimana beruntungnya mereka bisa melewati saat kebersamaan yang panjang, dan bersyukur atas begitu banyak peristiwa yang boleh mereka jalani berdua. Dan ketika memang ‘saat’ itu tiba, yang terungkap justru rasa syukur karena telah diberi banyak kesempatan untuk menjalani hari demi hari bersama dengan orang yang dicintainya.
When you think your life is so short and when you always keep trying to fill up your days with cheers and laughter; someday you’ll be amazed, how many great moments you’ve been through in your lifetime. Itulah kalimat penutup yang ditulis Linda Graham dalam surat terakhir yang dikirimkannya pada saya.
Ditulis oleh: Agung Basuki - www.travelhemat.com
( Traveller, writer and my friend)
31 Oct 2009
Making The Perfect Pitch
Although many business owners operate retail shops that focus on providing products for customers, some owners face the task of selling their services to prospective clients. While these services are needed, customers often shop around due to the fact they are not purchasing a tangible product they can see before they buy. This is why it is important that business owners are able to deliver the perfect pitch and close the sale.
Determine why your service is needed
Understanding the reasons behind the purchase is one of the key ways to ensure you make the perfect pitch as a business owner. For some business owners this will be obvious as clients purchase or inquire about their services due to something that has happened in their life or something they need. Lawyers are a great example of this as people seek them out when they are in trouble with the law or are forced to go to court. However, other business owners may not have it this easy with their potential customers. For example, advertising companies must often ask a lot of questions before they get to the truth behind why the business they are working with needs their help.
Know your target audience
As more information is provided about why a purchase is being made, you can begin to get to know your customers. This too is important in making the perfect pitch since many customers will purchase services or products based on a personal connection. While it may not be necessary to know the fine details of your customer's business, you should know them by name and treat them as though they are the most important customer in the world. Not only will this help to develop a pleasant and solid working relationship with the customer, but it could also potentially lead to additional business through word-of-mouth referrals.
Back up your words with print
Of course when making the pitch to the customer about why your services are better than your competitors it is important to use printed materials to back up what you are saying and even provide additional information. Most people don't pay companies and businesses for non-tangible services right away unless they are something they are going to use only one time. Instead they want time to think it over, and printed materials can be a great resource to use in these situations. Poster printing, flyers, brochures and more are excellent ways to keep your name and information in front of your customers even when they are in the comfort of their own home.
The perfect pitch is obtainable, and it something you must achieve if you offer services rather than products. Following the suggestions discussed here, you can ensure that your potential customers convert into actual clients that make your business profitable and allow it to grow.
21 Oct 2009
Asian Parliamentary Debate Guidelines
Asian Parliamentary Debate is a debate format, similar to American Parliamentary Debate, in which two teams of three compete in each match.
Overview
In Asian Parliamentary Style, there are 2 teams - Government and Opposition. Each team has 3 members and each team gives 4 speeches. The format is a limited preparation format, meaning that the topic is announced, depending on the tournament, roughly 30 minutes before the debate.
The 3 members of the Government should defend the motion. The 3 members of the team, each of which gives a 7 minute speech, are:
* 1) Prime Minister
* 2) Deputy Prime Minister
* 3) Government Whip
One speaker from the Government team - either the Prime Minister or Deputy Prime Minister - is charged with giving a 4 minute reply speech that clarifies the debate from the Government perspective without bringing forth new arguments.
The 3 members of the Opposition team should negate the motion and refute arguments brought forth by the Government. The 3 members of the team, each of which gives a 7 minute speech, are:
* 1) Leader of Opposition
* 2) Deputy Leader of Opposition
* 3) Opposition Whip
Like the Government team, one speaker from the Opposition team - either the Leader of Opposition or Deputy Leader of Opposition - is charged with giving a 4 minute reply speech that clarifies the debate from the Opposition perspective without bringing forth new arguments.
In the 7 minute speeches, the opposing team can stand up and ask for Points of Information (POI) after the first minute and until the sixth minute. A POI should be a brief question or comment and not a long-winded monologue or back and forth cross examination session.
Roles of Speakers
Government:
Prime Minister (PM)
* Define context and parameters of debate. For example, in an open motion like "This House Would Support Musicians", the debate could be contextualized into whether music should be a commodity for trade, or it should be available free (i.e. free music download and transfer)
* Provide concise background or history leading to the issue
* Give framework of government bench's case. I.e. mechanisms (if any), argumentation flow (what the government's first argument is and what the Deputy Prime Minister will talk about)
* Introduce 1st argument
* Assert Government stand
Deputy Prime Minister (DPM)
* Rebut first argument from Leader of Opposition
* Rebut rebuttals to PM's argument
* Introduce 2nd and 3rd argument
* Reassert Government stand and case
Government Whip
* Rebut Deputy Leader of Opposition, and Leader of Opposition
* Rebut rebuttals to DPM and PM arguments
* Provide a deeper level of analysis for previous arguments and rebuttals
* No new arguments, but new angles of arguments should be given
* Brief summary of entire case of Government
* Reassert Government stand and case
Opposition:
Leader of Opposition
* Agree or disagree with context/ parameters of debate (any definitional challenges, accusations of squirreling, or unfair set up should be made from the LO speech and no later)
* Rebut Prime Minister's argument
* Give framework for Opposition case (if Opp agrees to problem, then their case should provide solution, or at least effectively highlight how Government proposal will worsen the situation)
* Introduce first Opposition argument
* Assert Opposition stand
1.jpg)
Deputy Leader of Opposition
* Rebut DPM and PM arguments
* Rebut rebuttals to LO arguments
* Introduce 1st and 2nd (if any) argument
* Reassert Opposition stand and case
Opposition Whip
* Rebut DPM and PM arguments
* Rebut rebuttals to LO & DLO arguments
* Provide a deeper level of analysis for previous arguments and rebuttals
* No new arguments, but new angles of arguments should be given
* Reassert Opposition stand and case
Reply Speech:
* Can only be done by either 1st or 2nd speaker from each bench
* Provide a biased 'oral adjudication' of why the debate should go to own bench
* Highlight issues you think your side won, carefully tiptoe around issues you think you lost
* New examples to expand on discussed examples is usually allowed and makes the reply speech sound fresh as opposed to verbal regurgitation
* Reassert stand
-----
Most importantly, try to have fun while you're doing all this. ;)
Overview
In Asian Parliamentary Style, there are 2 teams - Government and Opposition. Each team has 3 members and each team gives 4 speeches. The format is a limited preparation format, meaning that the topic is announced, depending on the tournament, roughly 30 minutes before the debate.
The 3 members of the Government should defend the motion. The 3 members of the team, each of which gives a 7 minute speech, are:
* 1) Prime Minister
* 2) Deputy Prime Minister
* 3) Government Whip
One speaker from the Government team - either the Prime Minister or Deputy Prime Minister - is charged with giving a 4 minute reply speech that clarifies the debate from the Government perspective without bringing forth new arguments.
The 3 members of the Opposition team should negate the motion and refute arguments brought forth by the Government. The 3 members of the team, each of which gives a 7 minute speech, are:
* 1) Leader of Opposition
* 2) Deputy Leader of Opposition
* 3) Opposition Whip
Like the Government team, one speaker from the Opposition team - either the Leader of Opposition or Deputy Leader of Opposition - is charged with giving a 4 minute reply speech that clarifies the debate from the Opposition perspective without bringing forth new arguments.
In the 7 minute speeches, the opposing team can stand up and ask for Points of Information (POI) after the first minute and until the sixth minute. A POI should be a brief question or comment and not a long-winded monologue or back and forth cross examination session.
Roles of Speakers
Government:
Prime Minister (PM)
* Define context and parameters of debate. For example, in an open motion like "This House Would Support Musicians", the debate could be contextualized into whether music should be a commodity for trade, or it should be available free (i.e. free music download and transfer)
* Provide concise background or history leading to the issue
* Give framework of government bench's case. I.e. mechanisms (if any), argumentation flow (what the government's first argument is and what the Deputy Prime Minister will talk about)
* Introduce 1st argument
* Assert Government stand
Deputy Prime Minister (DPM)
* Rebut first argument from Leader of Opposition
* Rebut rebuttals to PM's argument
* Introduce 2nd and 3rd argument
* Reassert Government stand and case
Government Whip
* Rebut Deputy Leader of Opposition, and Leader of Opposition
* Rebut rebuttals to DPM and PM arguments
* Provide a deeper level of analysis for previous arguments and rebuttals
* No new arguments, but new angles of arguments should be given
* Brief summary of entire case of Government
* Reassert Government stand and case
Opposition:
Leader of Opposition
* Agree or disagree with context/ parameters of debate (any definitional challenges, accusations of squirreling, or unfair set up should be made from the LO speech and no later)
* Rebut Prime Minister's argument
* Give framework for Opposition case (if Opp agrees to problem, then their case should provide solution, or at least effectively highlight how Government proposal will worsen the situation)
* Introduce first Opposition argument
* Assert Opposition stand
1.jpg)
Deputy Leader of Opposition
* Rebut DPM and PM arguments
* Rebut rebuttals to LO arguments
* Introduce 1st and 2nd (if any) argument
* Reassert Opposition stand and case
Opposition Whip
* Rebut DPM and PM arguments
* Rebut rebuttals to LO & DLO arguments
* Provide a deeper level of analysis for previous arguments and rebuttals
* No new arguments, but new angles of arguments should be given
* Reassert Opposition stand and case
Reply Speech:
* Can only be done by either 1st or 2nd speaker from each bench
* Provide a biased 'oral adjudication' of why the debate should go to own bench
* Highlight issues you think your side won, carefully tiptoe around issues you think you lost
* New examples to expand on discussed examples is usually allowed and makes the reply speech sound fresh as opposed to verbal regurgitation
* Reassert stand
-----
Most importantly, try to have fun while you're doing all this. ;)
1 Aug 2009
Journey to Bromo - Tengger Crater
If Mount Semeru is well known with the highest peak in Java Island and Mount Merapi as the world's most active volcanic mountain, Mount Bromo is uniquely known because of its volcano inside a volcano. The Base of the Mountain rises from an ancient Tengger caldera.
Mount Bromo is one of the five mountains within the the Tengger caldera in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park located in East Java, Indonesia. With height 2,329 meters (7,641 feet) Mt. Bromo has a unique natural phenomena in from of a crater on the crater covered by sand sea.
Major access point to the National park is from Cemoro Lawang (northeast) of village Ngadisari 5.5 km from Probolinggo. Another trail is from Tosari (northwest) which is around 35 km from a town called Pasuruan through steep mountain road and spectacular scenery.
In Tosari, there are many cottages providing accommodations for travelers and hikers, as well as other services including small restaurants, shops and 4 wheel drive car rents.
From Tosari, we head to the Sea of Sands, forms the floor of the massive Tengger Caldera. The sandy region measures to 10 kilometers in diameter. Eruptions from the surrounding mountains spewing tonnes of volcanic rock which eventually became fine black sands as we see it today.
There are 5 volcanoes inside the caldera of black sands, Mt Bromo (2,329m), Mt Batok (2,470m), Mt Kursi (2,581m), Mt Watangan (2,661m) and Widodaren (2,650m) and of course the great Mt. Semeru or known as Mahameru at (3,676m) which ironically not within the black sea of sands.
Deep by the sea of sand lies Pura Luhur Poten, a Hinduism temple that holds a
significant importance to the Tenggerese tribe scattered across the nearby villages.
Apart from rituals, the temple host the annual Yadnya Kasada ceremony. The event lasts for about 1 month, which on the 14th day, the Tenggerese will congregate at Pura Luhur Poten to ask for blessings from Ida Sang Hyang Widi Wasa and God of Mahameru (Mt Semeru).
Then the mass will proceed along the crater edges of Mt Bromo where offerings of rice, fruit, vegetables, flowers, livestock and other local produce will be thrown into the deep gully. The offering service dates back to the time of Roro Anteng and Joko Seger who performed a sacrificial ritual of animals and plants in replacement of their 25th child who initially was supposed to be thrown into the crater.
To get to the peak of Mount Bromo itself, you can either walk or take a horse ride to the staircase of the mountain. Horse rides are operated by local Tenggerese youngsters that will cost you Rp. 30.000 at the most.
Then we use the concrete stairs up to the edge of the crater where you will see a large caving crater with smokes coming out of the bottom showing the active volcano.
From there you could enjoy one of the world's greatest volcanic mountain and the outstanding natural panorama they have surrounding the national park.
Trekking Mount Penanjakan (2.770m) is something you should not miss out on your visit. It is a popular vista or look out platform which enables us to view the massive Tengger Caldera. Before the viewing platform, there are plenty of shops selling gifts, foods and jacket rental for those who feels they may need extra layer of protection since weather there is cold enough to keep your fingers froze.
The vista viewing platform is indeed spectacular. To the south, you will see the massive Tengger Caldera, inside which the Sea of Sands stretches as far as your eyes could see. Also within this ancient crater you can see Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, Mount Kursi and the majestic Mount Semeru in the far horizon.
The view to the east is landscaped by Mount Argopuro (3,088m) and Mount Raung (3,332m), and if the weather is clear enough, you can see the western tip of Bali island. And try to look to the west where you can catch the glimpse of the twin peaks of Mount Arjuno (3,339m) and Welirang (3,156m) as the sun rising above the morning mist over the city of Malang.
Be sure to capture many pictures and videos as the journey ends. A last minute tips is always bring adequate clothing to keep you warm and enough food supply if you are camping out. Have a great journey!
Mount Bromo is one of the five mountains within the the Tengger caldera in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park located in East Java, Indonesia. With height 2,329 meters (7,641 feet) Mt. Bromo has a unique natural phenomena in from of a crater on the crater covered by sand sea.
Major access point to the National park is from Cemoro Lawang (northeast) of village Ngadisari 5.5 km from Probolinggo. Another trail is from Tosari (northwest) which is around 35 km from a town called Pasuruan through steep mountain road and spectacular scenery.
In Tosari, there are many cottages providing accommodations for travelers and hikers, as well as other services including small restaurants, shops and 4 wheel drive car rents.
From Tosari, we head to the Sea of Sands, forms the floor of the massive Tengger Caldera. The sandy region measures to 10 kilometers in diameter. Eruptions from the surrounding mountains spewing tonnes of volcanic rock which eventually became fine black sands as we see it today.
There are 5 volcanoes inside the caldera of black sands, Mt Bromo (2,329m), Mt Batok (2,470m), Mt Kursi (2,581m), Mt Watangan (2,661m) and Widodaren (2,650m) and of course the great Mt. Semeru or known as Mahameru at (3,676m) which ironically not within the black sea of sands.
Deep by the sea of sand lies Pura Luhur Poten, a Hinduism temple that holds a
significant importance to the Tenggerese tribe scattered across the nearby villages.Apart from rituals, the temple host the annual Yadnya Kasada ceremony. The event lasts for about 1 month, which on the 14th day, the Tenggerese will congregate at Pura Luhur Poten to ask for blessings from Ida Sang Hyang Widi Wasa and God of Mahameru (Mt Semeru).
Then the mass will proceed along the crater edges of Mt Bromo where offerings of rice, fruit, vegetables, flowers, livestock and other local produce will be thrown into the deep gully. The offering service dates back to the time of Roro Anteng and Joko Seger who performed a sacrificial ritual of animals and plants in replacement of their 25th child who initially was supposed to be thrown into the crater.
To get to the peak of Mount Bromo itself, you can either walk or take a horse ride to the staircase of the mountain. Horse rides are operated by local Tenggerese youngsters that will cost you Rp. 30.000 at the most.
Then we use the concrete stairs up to the edge of the crater where you will see a large caving crater with smokes coming out of the bottom showing the active volcano.
From there you could enjoy one of the world's greatest volcanic mountain and the outstanding natural panorama they have surrounding the national park.
Trekking Mount Penanjakan (2.770m) is something you should not miss out on your visit. It is a popular vista or look out platform which enables us to view the massive Tengger Caldera. Before the viewing platform, there are plenty of shops selling gifts, foods and jacket rental for those who feels they may need extra layer of protection since weather there is cold enough to keep your fingers froze.
The vista viewing platform is indeed spectacular. To the south, you will see the massive Tengger Caldera, inside which the Sea of Sands stretches as far as your eyes could see. Also within this ancient crater you can see Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, Mount Kursi and the majestic Mount Semeru in the far horizon.
The view to the east is landscaped by Mount Argopuro (3,088m) and Mount Raung (3,332m), and if the weather is clear enough, you can see the western tip of Bali island. And try to look to the west where you can catch the glimpse of the twin peaks of Mount Arjuno (3,339m) and Welirang (3,156m) as the sun rising above the morning mist over the city of Malang.
Be sure to capture many pictures and videos as the journey ends. A last minute tips is always bring adequate clothing to keep you warm and enough food supply if you are camping out. Have a great journey!
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