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ACN Newswire

Indonesia highlights the need for democracy to face challenges at the 15th Bali Democracy Forum

9 12 月, 2022

BALI, INDONESIA, Dec 9, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, RetnoMarsudi, said that democracy is considered to be able to help not only Indonesia but also the world leaders, in facing the challenges in the coming year.Democratic leadership is urgently needed from leaders around the world to direct sustainable recovery by reaching out to the people most affected by the pandemic and other crises caused by geopolitical turmoil, Marsudi stated at the 15th Bali Democracy Forum (BDF) meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, Thursday (Dec 8).Marsudi officially opened the meeting, which was attended by 323 participants from 112 countries and five international organizations, with 52 of them attending virtually. "With democracy, freedom of expression and conveying aspirations is also guaranteed, and space for effective dialogue and decision-making is also possible because of checks and balances," Marsudi said.While citing data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) that show 4.15 million productive workers are still affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, she emphasized that the principle of solidarity is very much needed in promoting an inclusive recovery. In this recovery effort, she emphasized that no party should be left behind. Democracy is the choice of the Indonesian people and has proven to play an important role in advancing peace, stability, and prosperity.Additionally, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, acknowledged that democracy is currently experiencing a setback. Therefore, democracy needs to be defended and strengthened. "In a time of turmoil, tension, and chaos, divisions are widening, and people are hurting, democracy is declining, and civil society is shrinking," he said. Hence, the world community is obliged to act by defending and strengthening democracy. He highlighted the importance of promoting the rule of law and the universal nature of all types of basic human rights, including economic, social, political, civil and cultural aspects. Therefore, it is necessary to uphold the democratic principles of inclusivity and dialogue because they are the foundation of a renewed social contract and the key to lasting peace, as well as stability and sustainable development.Meanwhile, global solidarity is also needed to ensure that all people, wherever they are, can have the necessary resources and support to invest in society and their future, he added.Minister Marsudi again said in her speech that democracy is not a goal, but a way to achieve a goal. "Then, the future of democracy will really depend on us, whether we will continue to support or give up on democracy," she said. Minister then emphasized that Indonesia is sticking to efforts to maintain the spirit of democracy and strengthen the foundations of democracy.The Bali Democracy Forum is a cross-country forum in the Asia Pacific region that emphasizes democracy issues. The BDF 2022 has the theme 'Democracy in a Changing World: Leadership and Solidarity'. This theme underscores the importance of leadership and solidarity as part of the pillars of democracy in the midst of world turmoil due to geopolitical and economic crises. Since it was first held in 2008 until now, BDF has presented many diplomatic representatives from countries as well as experts.--Antara Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

ACN Newswire

Club Med Celebrates 11.11 with Amazing Family Travel Deals

8 11 月, 2022

SINGAPORE, Nov 8, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Make it a year to remember as Club Med, the leader of all-inclusive holidays, is offering its limited time 11.11 holiday packages, where children below 8 years old can stay for free at sought-after destinations - from Snow resorts such as Club Med Sahoro and Club Med Tomamu in Hokkaido, Japan; to Sun resorts in Club Med La Plantation d'Albion and Club Med The Albion Villas in Mauritius; in Club Med Bali and Club Med Bintan in Indonesia; or Club Med Phuket in Thailand.Happening from 7th November 2022 until 11th November 2022, the promotion applies for bookings with a minimum stay of 4-Days 3-Nights for any accommodation type (Superior, Deluxe or Suites) at Club Med La Plantation d'Albion, The Albion Villas, Phuket, Bintan or Bali, and for those booking a minimum stay of 5-Days 4-Nights in Deluxe rooms or Suites at Club Med Tomamu or Sahoro. The promotion will be valid for stays until 30th April 2023 - allowing the chance for families to not only plan for the upcoming year-end holidays, but also for future holidays too.Being a pioneer of Kids & Family experiences since 1967 with its initial introduction of Mini Club Med +, a space for children 4-10 year olds to learn and grow while on vacation, the promotion aligns with Club Med's long-standing commitment to deliver unparalleled and meaningful holiday experiences for families. Especially with children's time being ever more occupied by anonymous screens, Club Med is the ideal destination for them to reconnect with families in the real world as the array of outdoor adventures, family-friendly offerings, lifestyle ambience and shows available at their resorts provides the opportunity for children to rediscover the joys of doing things together.Parents will also be delighted as programmes and activities at Club Med are created to keep the children entertained throughout their stay. Recently, Club Med introduced Mini Club Med + [1] the evolution of its highly acclaimed Kids Club formerly known as Mini Club Med +, featuring a brand-new science-based framework inspired by Positive Education.Developed in partnership with Professor Ilona Boniwell, an Expert in Positive Psychology & Positive Education and a world leader in the field of Positive Psychology, the new framework helps boosts a child's well-being and self-development by enhancing essential soft skills such as emotional intelligence and adaptability, which will help them grow and flourish in any environment. Through Mini Club Med +, children can discover their unique character strengths while on vacation, revolving around the six Cs: creativity, co-operation, courage, connection, cheerfulness and confidence.Beyond the new Mini Club Med + enhancement, Club Med resorts also feature Kids' Clubs for children 4 months to 17 years, the award-winning Amazing Family! program that encourages family bonding in a unique way, services and facilities such as a baby corner with pureed food for infants, interconnecting rooms which make vacationing as a family a breeze and sports and activities for all ages, making it the perfect holiday spot for families.Families looking for an exhilarating ski escape with the family can look forward to a variety of unique experiences at a Club Med ski resort - where everything is taken care of in the all-inclusive package, including ski lift passes, group snow lessons and even apres ski activities. Guests seeking winter excitement to share with friends and family will find it at Club Med Tomamu, where one can expect action-packed snow adventures such as skiing, snowboarding, snow trekking, and even riding Japan's largest indoor wave pool at the nearby Mina Mina Beach. Meanwhile, those seeking a true immersion into authentic Japanese culture and heritage can look forward to reconnecting with loved ones at Club Med Sahoro. Aside from the wide range of winter activities offered at the exclusive snow domain, guests can also look forward to exciting discoveries - from exploring the native Ainu culture and the local culinary delights, to soaking in the natural wonders of the surrounding mountains - the possibilities for unforgettable experiences are endless.Those looking to experience fun under the sun will also be delighted with the destinations Club Med has to offer. Discover an authentic Mauritian experience with carefully curated explorative family experiences in our Exclusive Collection resorts, Club Med La Plantation d'Albion and The Albion Villas. Fall in love with a resort where abundant tropical nature meets supreme refinement and exceptional service as you uncover renewed passions at La Plantation d'Albion. If you are looking for an extra special getaway in ultimate luxury, the Albion Villas are perfect for you as you will enjoy the best of both worlds in your own private space yet have access to all the activities available in the resort - fun for whole family is guaranteed. Families seeking the cultural wonders that Thailand has to offer can look to Club Med Phuket, Thailand, and be immersed in a sensorial feast - from traditional Thai performances and culinary adventures to vibrant local sights and Tropical Nomad Lifestyle concept parties - there is something for everyone to enjoy. At Club Med Bali, which features an all-new repertoire of activities, programmes, and entertainment line-up, families can explore the resort together through a digital treasure hunt with Club Med Play app or celebrate the rich Balinese culture with a full-day Balinese themed workshops and experiences. Meanwhile, a holiday at Club Med Bintan Island is perfect for families seeking a holistic wellness experience, offering a variety of fitness activities, outdoor pursuits and healthy cuisines.With more than 70 years of experience perfecting the all-inclusive concept in 70 destinations located around the world, each Club Med property has its own personality and offers unique immersive experiences reflecting on the culture and customs of its host country. Coupled with the convivial spirit brought by Club Med's G.Os (Gentils Organisateurs), the destinations offered are bound to excite families who have been yearning for hassle-free international holidays since travel restrictions were lifted.Those looking to book their holiday during the 11.11 promotion can do so by visiting https://bit.ly/3SzvRWq.About Club MedClub Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world's leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities.Media ContactPRecious Communications for Club Medclubmed@preciouscomms.com+65 96303 0567[1] Mini Club Med+ programme is currently available in Club Med Bali, Club Med Bintan, Club Med Phuket, and Club Med Tomamu only. Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

ACN Newswire

Speedy immigration clearance for Australian visitors entering Indonesia with first-ever fast-track Visa on Arrival service

13 10 月, 2022

BALI, INDONESIA, Oct 13, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - It is holiday season all year round in Bali, where travellers make their yearly pilgrimage to the beautiful island in Indonesia, a travel hotspot. To aid the increase in travel demand to Indonesia and especially Bali, VFS Global has rolled out the first-of-its-kind Indonesia fast-track Visa on Arrival service. Visitors from 86 different countries, including Australia, can now enjoy a quicker and smoother visa application journey by completing the process online, pre-departure, offered by VFS Global.The service is provided in an exclusive agreement with TLP, the partner of the Immigration Department for Republic of Indonesia and Bank Mandiri. Apart from Bali, it is also available to Jakarta-bound travellers.Since the lifting of the travel restrictions brought about by the pandemic, the number of visitors to Bali in 2022 has been consistently hitting new highs, with Australians taking up a massive 32.2% of the total number to the sunny destination in July 2022, making them the top visitors to Bali. Following close behind were travellers from India, the United Kingdom, France and the United States of America, according to Bali Central Bureau of Statistics data released on 2 September.With the fast-track Visa on Arrival, immigration clearance for 86 nationalities, including India and France, can save up to three hours of waiting time. All they have to do is simply apply for their Indonesia Visa on Arrival through VFS Global on indonesiavoa.vfsevisa.id.The service will take visitors through an online pre-payment of fees, fast-track access and concierge services prior to their travel. With the confirmation sent to their registered email ID, the only step during arrival would be to get the visa stamped at the designated fast-track Visa on Arrival immigration lanes.Mr. Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer, VFS Global said, "Indonesia, especially Bali, is a popular destination for travellers across the globe. Unveiling a fuss-free, speedy service that will make travellers' visa application journey quicker and simpler will give these visitors less time on waiting and more time for their holiday. With tech-led Do It Yourself solutions becoming increasingly popular, this first-ever fast-track Visa on Arrival service is sure to offer applicants a more relaxed on-arrival experience."How to use the fast-track VOA serviceSTEP 1: Visit indonesiavoa.vfsevisa.idSTEP 2: Submit the required documents and pay the VOA fee onlineSTEP 3: Await the confirmation email that will be sent to the registered email IDSTEP 4: Upon landing in Jakarta and Bali, head to the dedicated fast-track lane with the confirmation email to get the visa stampedVFS Global will offer Standard and Fast track service (Express) options. Applicants opting for the Standard service will be able to submit their applications no less than 72 hours prior to the date of departure, and benefit from the fast-track immigration process. Those opting for the Fast track service (Express) service will be able to submit their applications no less than 24 hours prior to the date of departure. The Express service additionally provides end-to-end personalised assistance and guidance, right from the arrival gate through immigration, baggage claim, and customs.About VFS GlobalVFS Global is the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions. VFS Global is the trusted partner of 65 client governments, operating a global network with more than 3,500 Application Centres in 144 countries. The company has processed over 246 million applications since its inception in 2001. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, enabling them to focus entirely on the critical assessment task. VFS Global has its headquarters in Zurich/Switzerland and Dubai/United Arab Emirates.VFS Global is majority-owned by funds managed by Blackstone, the world's largest alternative asset manager. Blackstone seeks to create positive economic impact and long-term value for their investors, the companies in which they invest, and the communities in which they work. Blackstone's USD 915 billion in assets under management include investment vehicles focused on private equity, real estate, public debt and equity, infrastructure, life sciences, growth equity, opportunistic, non-investment grade credit, real assets, and secondary funds, all on a global basis.The Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, a global investment organisation, headquartered in Stockholm/Sweden, hold minority stakes in VFS Global. www.vfsglobal.comMedia ContactSoubhik MitraCorporate Communicationssoubhikm@vfsglobal.comcommunications@vfsglobal.comJacqualine ChanPRecious CommunicationsJacqualine.chan@preciouscomms.com Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

ACN Newswire

Club Med Redefines Vacation for Kids with a new framework inspired by Positive Education, Mini Club Med +

18 8 月, 2022

SINGAPORE, Aug 18, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Club Med, the pioneer of Premium All-Inclusive holidays and the number one vacation brand for families, launched the evolution of its highly-acclaimed Kids Club (previously known as Mini Club Med(R)) to Mini Club Med + in Bali. This brand-new science-based framework inspired by Positive Education offers a fun-filled experience where play, cooperation and kindness are celebrated to help develop their soft skills while on vacation.This much anticipated roll-out across Asia follows the successful test case in Club Med La Palmyre Atlantique, that has been specially formulated to address the changing needs of children and the rising expectations of parents, and directly responds to one of the major concerns, which is how to raise happy children? Holidays are very special moments in children's development, where we believe creativity, courage, appreciation, teamwork or self-expression can be kindled and fostered.Mini Club Med + is a Game ChangerClub Med has been a pioneer of Kids & Family experiences since 1967, with its initial introduction of Mini Club Med(R), a space for children 4-10 year olds to learn and grow while on vacation. Parents can leave their little ones under the watchful eyes of the Gentils Organisateurs (GOs(R)) in our Resorts, with the assurance that their kids will enjoy the most enriching experiences, while they enjoy their much needed me-time and we-time. With this enhancement to the program, it gives even more value to the time children spend at Mini Club Med + and the experiences that will empower them to be happy & confident.At Mini Club Med +, kids are being prepared for the future. They will discover and develop unique character strengths around Creativity, Confidence, Connection, Cheerfulness, Courage and Cooperation (the 6 Cs of Mini Club Med +); vital soft skills to being happy, staying connected and growing with confidence.One of such activities that the little ones can look forward at Mini Club Med + is the Ninja Bootcamp, where it requires them to design their own obstacle course and conquering it. The goal is to reveal a child's unique character strengths and to develop his or her ability to effectively engage those strengths leading to increased self-esteem, energy and happiness. This approach echoes Club Med's raison d'etre, perfectly matching the vision of Club Med's founder, Gerard Blitz: "The purpose of life is to be happy. The place to be happy is here. The time to be happy is now."The program was developed in partnership with Professor Ilona BONIWELL, an Expert in Positive Psychology & Positive Education and a world leader in the field of Positive Psychology, with over 20 years of experience. A wealth of exciting new activities was designed to help children discover and develop their strengths. All of the original Mini Club Med activities such as sports and the Mini Club Med Show have also been re-engineered and passed through the same framework, to help nurture children's soft skills, making them more than just fun activities, but truly enriching learning experiences."Families are at the core of our offering at Club Med and this new enhancement of Mini Club Med + truly redefines the enriching holiday experiences children will have at our resorts. Over 70% of our guests from Asia visiting Club Med are families, we see the value and opportunity to empower the next generation with the character strengths they need to thrive in this fast-changing world." said Rachael Harding, Chief Executive Officer, East and South Asia & Pacific markets, Club Med. "We are thrilled to be able to launch this enhancement across Asia (excluding China) and highlight our commitment to delivering unparalleled and meaningful experiences for families."The Media Launch at Club Med Bali, the #1 resort for familiesThe sneak peek into the Mini Club Med + program, held at Club Med Bali, presented the perfect space for family vacations. The Premium All-Inclusive Resort which recently reopened last month, features the ideal hassle-free infrastructure for families. Beyond the new Mini Club Med + enhancement, the Resort also has Kids' Clubs for children 4 months to 17 years, the award-winning Amazing Family! program that encourages family bonding in a unique way, services and facilities such as a baby corner with pureed food for infants, interconnecting rooms which make vacationing as a family a breeze and over 60 sports and activities for all ages, making it the resort with the largest number of in-resort sports and activities in Bali.Club Med's First Ever Immersive Art InstallationMaking waves during the event launch at Club Med Bali is the debut of Club Med's first ever immersive art installation in partnership with Art Wonderland Singapore. This exclusive art installation brings another dimension of creative play, allowing families to bond over imaginative play and expose them to the artful storytelling in an outdoor setting. It hopes to encourage the spirit of pretend play and wild imaginations in families and to allow children to hone their strengths and develop soft skills through this limited-time feature.About the artwork installation:Of Dreams and Adventures is an experience-based, immersive installation that aims to encourage family visitors to play in the spirit of adventure. On a journey across a monstrous ocean to an illuminating forest and musical cave, family visitors are invited to take part in imaginative play and adopt the role of brave explorers on a quest for the glowing crown. Filled with interactive elements and playful activities, Of Dreams and Adventures aims to allow families to practice teamwork and embrace their wildest imagination for the greatest adventure of all time.New Discoveries Await FamiliesIn addition to the art installation, Club Med Bali will feature brand-new robust entertainment for the whole family. When evening comes around, grab the kids and head to the theatre for energizing beats in the new digital shows 'Colours' & 'Magic Tribe' by our talented GOs in dazzling costumes are sure to mesmerize and are definitely Instagram-worthy.Connecting you to the soul of Bali, the resort also introduced a dedicated Balinese Day each week, where families can join in local cooking classes with striking flavours and relish in the rich, cultural performances. Another note-worthy event is the Nomad Festival themed day, where colourful bohemian-chic happenings and curated workshops such as eco-friendly glitter make-up, dreamcatcher-making and boho-chic festival party with a live DJ await. Watch as families of all ages doll up, bringing vibrancy of the island to life and with it, precious memories and maybe some new phone wallpapers.Competitive families may find picking up a new sport while on vacation a massive draw and the best chance to level out the playing field between parents and kids. With the newest addition, Padel Tennis to Club Med Bali's extensive list of all-inclusive activities in the Resort, families can seek to develop a new skill together.For more details on What's New at Club Med Bali, check out our press release on Bali Reignited.About Club MedClub Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world's leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities.About Art Wonderland:Based in Singapore, Art Wonderland is an art collective that consists of lead artists - Lena Lok, Jesse Chong and Stacy Huang - and their team of creatives. Grounded in education, the collective designs spaces and encounters that stimulate curiosity and enables discovery of the worlds around us. Through exploration of mediums and creative dialogue, Art Wonderland aims to empower children to be independent artists that can tell their own stories.About Ilona BoniwellIlona Boniwell is a professor of positive psychology at the University of East London and the original founder of the UEL's MSc in Applied Positive Psychology, the first ever degree of this type in Europe. She is one of the world leaders in positive psychology, working in the field for over 20 years, originally mentored by Martin Seligman. Professor Boniwell wrote or edited twelve books, delivered over 200 keynotes and a TEDx, founded the European Network of Positive Psychology, organised the first European Congress of Positive Psychology and was the first vice-chair of the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA). She is also a passionate practitioner of positive psychology. As a CEO of Positran she consulted the Governments of UAE and Bhutan and many major international companies, including Club Med, L'Oreal, Unilever, Nestle, EY, Microsoft and BNP Paribas. Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)