Weapons

“Rencong”, like “keris” in Jawa, and “kujang” in West Jawa, is a traditional weapon. It is a combination of metallurgy, the skill of a master craftsman, and arts. Verses from Al Qur’an engraved on the blade of this small dagger, will increase one’s self-confidence. In the “siwah”-type rencong, the hilt is not curved, slightly longer, and generally used by the kings or district chiefs (“hulubalang”).

Certain swords are knows as ”pedang daun tebu”, ”oon ngom”, and “reudeuh”.

Fine Arts

The Acehnese are acquainted with the arts of decoration, handicraft, architecture, and weaving although their developments are virtually slow. ”Rumoh Aceh” (Aceh House), whose basic form is a square supported with four or more pillars, is essentially the end result of a final stage after centuries of undergoing changes.

The arts carving and writing are centered around calligraphy. No human nor animal forms in Acehnese painting and carving, since it is forbidden in Islam to draw, carve and sculpt human being and animal.

Traditional paintings and drama (theatre) did not exist.

Traditional Dances

The characteristic of Acehnese traditional dances:

- Islamic

- At early stages, it was intended for ritual purposes only, not for public

- A harmonious combination of dance, music and literature

- Performed in groups but within a limited space

- Repetitious and monotonous physical movements

- It takes a long time to perform.

Today Acehnese dances can be enjoyed by the public and have incorporated aesthetic elements as well.

Out of 52 traditional dances recorded in 1981, there are two most popular dances domestically and in foreign countries:”seudati” and “saman”(originated from Gayo Luwes). The former is also known as the”one thousand hand dance”. In addition to traditional and religious backgrounds there are also dances based on myths and legends of pre-Islam era, such as “Pho”dance in South Aceh, and “Bines” dances in Central Aceh.

Seudati, in which the influence of the Middle East cultre is strong. There are two kinds of “Seudati”: “seudati Agam” (performed by men), and Seudati Inong (performed by women).

Saman, a dance performed by a number of dancers while sitting a row. The verses recited contains messages on good deeds. It is originated from Southeast Aceh and bears similarities with”Didong” of Central Aceh. Ramphak describes the heroism of female fighters during the Dutch Colonial War. Rapa’I is always accompanied with the sound of a large tambourine and with “zikir” words or sentences praising Allah or the Prophet uttered repeatedly). The most well-known “rapa’I” is a combination between”rapa’I” and saman called “Rapa’I Geleng”.

GAMES

Natural environment and social-cultural conditions are factors establishing the types of the game played or performed by the people. But one thing is obvious: the absence of woman if the game or performance is shown in public.

Since Alas people live along Alas river, games are also played on the riversides, such as “sepangkal” and “king-kingan”. “Sepak raga” is a kind of football. Top spinning, known as “gasing”, is often contested. “Meukrueng krueng” is a popular martial art.

“Daboih”, originated from the Arabic word “dabbus” is a ritual display of physical invulnerability. While dancing, seemingly to be in trance, the performers stab theirs necks, thighs, hit their heads, etc. eith knives,”rencong”(small dagger), or any other sharp materials. Sometimes a burnt metal chain is also used. The dance is normally accompanied with the sound of “Rapa’I Daboih”, a sort of tambourine.

ELEMENTS IN GAYO ARTS

Song, declamations, and riddles are dominant in Gayo literature. Architecture, carvings, and decorations are not conspicuous.

As regards music, Gayo people have created some instruments. “Teganing” is made from piece of bamboo and the strings are made by prying its skins. The sound is produced by hitting the strings with a sliced bamboo. The opposite side of the musical instrument serves as a drum. “Canang” is a set of musical instruments played by one player. Wind instruments include “genggong”, “bensi”, “serune”, flute and “gamang” (or harmonica).

In literature there are riddles, proses, traditional poetry, and “sebuku”. “Sebuku” is the expression of one’s feelings in the form of poems sung by a woman in special occasions, such as before the burial of the deceased.

The most popular of all traditional form in poetry is “didong”. It is a combination of music, dance and literature (poem). A group of youngsters (originally only male youngsters were allowed) consisting of 30 people compete with other group. They sit in a circle with their legs crossed. Each group has to answer, or to react against, a poem sung by the opponent. The answer or reaction should also be in a poem. The verses recited contains any information the people are expected to know or a social criticism.

At a glance, “didong” looks like “seudati” clapping of the hands perfomed uniformly accompanied with verses recited by a “ceh” who maintains the dynamics of the performance. The rhyme and contents of the poems are composed then and there. “Didong” is classified into the art of music.

“Sa’er” is a poem delivered by one person. The theme is religious.

Languages and Writing System

Almost all Acehnese are bilingual, since they are able to communicate fluently in both Indonesian language and their own mother tongues which, from the linguistic point of view, are classified into the Austronesian family. Some of the most common local languages are Aceh language (majority), Aneuk Jamee language (Part of South Aceh), Gayo language (Central, Southeast, and East Aceh), Alas language (Southeast Aceh), Tamiang language ( east of East Aceh), Simeuleu language (Simeuleu island), and Klut language (Klu ethnic group in South Aceh).

Each local language can be further subdivided into dialects. Aceh language, for instance, is spoken with slight differences in Aceh Besar, in Pidie, and in North Aceh. Similarly, in Gayo language there are Gayo Lut, Gayo Deret, and Gayo Lues dialects.

Local languages had been written in Malay Arabic writing system since the introduction of Islam. Latin-based writing system is now getting more popular and widely used.

Tales and Stories in the History of Aceh

Tales and Stories are called”hikayat”. They are rhythmical verses describing historical events, factual or imaginary stories. Whatever they may be, one thing is obvious, that is they always contain religious messages or teachings from Alquran and Hadits (the behaviours and utterances or expressions of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w). The original texts of hikayats are written in Arabic and many did not mention the authors.

The most popular hikayat is “Hikayat Perang Sabih” (The Story of the Holy War). Aceh literature experts have made a comprehensive study on this particular Hikayat and come to the conclusion that the author was Teungku Cik Pante Kulu, a close friend of Tengku Cik Di Tiro. It had played an extremely significant part in inciting the people’s spirits to join the holy war againt the Dutch which took place for 7 decades. It also called a “war poem” recited to stimulate the people’s fighting spirits. It was so effective that the Dutch government banned its recitation in public and confiscated any documents related to the hikayat.

“Hikayat Perang Sabih” contains four stories, they are :

1. The Story of Ainul Mardliyah

2. The Story of the Elephant War

3. The Story of Sa’id Salmy, and

4. The Story of Muhammad Amin.

Some of the characters are fictious, like in The Story of Ainul Mardliyah. It describes an imaginary situation – but still based on Al Quran and Hadits –when the Prophet moved the center of his activities from Mekah to Medinah. The story carries a parable as can be seen in the final part :

All messages have been passed on,

And Allah Knows everything

The story contain examples,

To step up a holy war.

Understand the examples my dear brothers,

And to all youngsters: Listen

Do not be afraid to take part in the war

Oh, ye the noble, the umbrella of the land

ACEHNESE: the Seamen from the Archipelago

During the era of Alexandre the Great, Sumatera seamen had regularly visited Indian harbours. Also recorded was a certain man from Sumatera paid a visit to the Roman empire, Cladius. And according to the account of Idrisi, Acehnese seamen had landed and settled down in Madagascar in 10th century. Taking into considerations the ability of the highly skilled Acehnese seamen in sailing through the vast ocean and also the strategic location of Aceh, we may assume that at the earliest stages of’globalization’, Acehnese seamen did introduce Nusantara (i.e. Indonesia) to the world by visiting the Middle East,Africa, Asia Minor, and Italy.
In his book “Geographike Uplehesis” or “Golden Cherenoses” Ptolomeus noted in his world map that easternmost island was Yabadiou which sounds almost identical with Yawadwipa.
In volume 7, he pointed out that the port of Yabadiou, called Argyre or Kota Perak, was situated in the westernmost of the island of Yabadiou, the soil was fertile, and it produced gold… It definitely refered to Banda Aceh, because in those days this city harbour had become a crowded entrepot

The Origin of The Name “ACEH”

No one can tell exactly, let alone scientifically, the origin of the name “Aceh”;even Acehnese language lacks any word which sounds like nor bears any implication to the meaning of “Aceh”. Although not supported by evidence, there is a folk-lore which is quite popular among the people on the origin of “Aceh”.
…in search of her little sister, an Indian princess arrived in Sumatera island. She found her there and told the local people that the girl was her ACI or her little sister. Since the people were fond her and behaved well, they made her their queen, and the area where they lived was then called ACI…
Van Langen said the origin of the name Aceh is ACA or ATCA, an Indian word meaning “beautiful’.

Enchanting Cultures

Regional cultures are the source of national culture. Therefore, any measures to preserve and improve the regional cultures should be initiated from the supporting elements.

As the logical consequences of Aceh’s strategic location in Malaka Straits, inter-relations with foreign people and cultures are unavoidable. When Islam has been fully accepted in Acehnese life, however, the openness to foreign elements are selective and strictly conditioned by one prerequisite: “provided they (the foreign elements) are not in contradiction with the Devine laws and codes of Islam applicable to human life”. This is the basic foundation of Acehnese moral obligation and at the same time becomes the moral objectives in the development efforts of this region.

Folktales

Folktales have become parts of the Acehnese life. They play important roles in preserving the regional languages and literatures, and are frequently reflected in fine arts and dances. In general, Acehnese folktales are the manifestation of the teachings of Islam, such as in “Hikayat Perang Sabih”, “Hikayat Aceh Barulkarim”, “Hikayat Tungku Malam”. Themes and messages pertaining to character buildings and good conducts can be easily absorbed by Acehnese people through folktales and stories. Therefore, they should be well kept and studied at all times.

There are about 80 folktales in the local languages of Aceh, Gayo, Jamee, Tamiang, and Simeuleu. People of all ages are fond of the stories as told by story tellers. Unfortunately, the role of the story tellers is weakening as the result of the influx of radio, television and other electronic audio visual media. It does not mean, however, that folktales themselves are automatically disappearing following the incoming of modern means of communications.

They still survive and remain popular among the people. Stories originated from pre-Islam period when shaman was the central figure in the society, are still recited and attractive to many listeners. Examples: “Adoman”, a personification of ape similar to “Anoman” in the Indian story “Rama and Shinta”; “Periedende” or human-like tiger; “Imo” and “Sihitam Pekat” (Gayo folktale) on the importance of brotherhood and willingness to sacrifice; “Siterong Bungkuk”, on the obligation to honour parents,etc.

When Islam was accepted fully as the only religion, there had been, and still are nowadays, stories on moral obligations and conducts among others:”Paya Terbang”, “Sepatah Kata Sekati Emas”, “Putri Parakisan”,etc.

Aceh Women : The Pride of Aceh People

Aceh women have placed themselves in a special and honourable position in the history of Aceh. Dozens of them had earned great names and thousands died during the war against the Dutch. Admiral Malahayati, Teungku Fakinah, Cut Nyak Dhien, Cut Meutia, Pocut Meurah Intan, Pocut Baren, Teungku Fatimah are only a few of the heroines directly involved in the war. Their names have been eternally engraved in the history of Aceh and praised by friends and enemies. The courageous Admiral Malahayati and her “Inong Bale” Fleet have been immortalized by a Dutch writer,Marie Van Zuchtelen, in her book The Female Admiral: Malahayati.

Based on the historical data, in 17^th century Aceh was governed by four princesses consecutively. They were: Naqiatuddin, Zakiatuddin, Kamelat Syah and Naqiatuddin. Aceh women could play and indirect but decive role in government matters. Princess Lindung Bulan, for instance, was the assistant of her own father, Raja Muda Sedia in Negeri Benua Tamieng (part of Peureulak kingdom) in 14^th century. Another prominent figure was Putri Pahang, popularly known as Putrou Pohang, the wife of Sultan Iskandar Muda. She put forwad the idea of establishing a Conculative Council of the People, or a Parliament. Whe, aterialized 16 out of 73 members of the Council were women.

The role of Aceh women today, and in the future as well, is essentially a reflection of the past, since they have been equipped with and unwavering tradition and a solid religious conviction.

Fasting for Diabetes Patient

Glucose fluctuation always frightened by patient, during fasting period (on Ramadhan). To avoid hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia is with a good consumption strategy. So many people breakfast with huge meals that is could be a trigger increasing glucose. Before fasting, patient should control her/his glucose level, if in the hypoglycemia condition, fasting is not recommended.

Why Do Patient Should Take Care Their Meals in Fasting Period?

1. Prevent hypoglycemia

2. Avoid hyperglycemia

3. Dehydration handling

4. Keep the ideal weight

5. A barirrier free for daily activity

How The Schedule?

Non FASTING

07. 00 am : Breakfast

10.00 am : Snack

12.00 am : Lunch

04.00 pm : Snack

07.00 pm : Dinner

FASTING

03.00 am : Supper

06.00 pm : Breakfast

07.00 pm : Dinner

09.00 pm : Snack

Note :

1. Schedule for Dinner/Lunch ? Supper

2. Schedule for snack on he morning + afternoon ? Breakfast

3. Schedule for Dinner/Lunch ? Dinner

4. Schedule for Breakfast? Snack after dinner

Fasting Tips:

· Always have supper

· Complete Meals

· Breakfast On Time

· Variant Menus

· Consump more fresh water

· Less Chili

The Origin of Acehnese

About 3,00 BC a migration took place from the continent to the south. Destination: the western island of Indonesia. They settled down and had became the origins of Indonesian people. However, it is not impossible that the earliest migration took place long before 3,00 BC, say 300,000 years ago, when the archipelago was still part of the continent. The race migrated through the land was known as Pithecanthropus erectus.

During the Stone Age Period, a Malay race living in the continent migrated to the south. They Had been familiar with planting and cattle-farming methods. The first batch was known as Proto (Old) Malay and the second Detro (Young) Malay. When the Old Malay who refused to intergrate with new comers they were forced to live in hinterland and became the ancestors and the Bataks and Nias in North Sumatera, and Gayo and Alas in Aceh.

Based on artifacts found in North Aceh, we could deduce that a certain race had lived in Aceh, probably during the Mid Stone Age period, prior to the arrival of the Old Malay. No trace of nor descendants from this race to-day. It is most likely they have become extinct.

It has been assumed that the homelanmd of the ancestors of Acehnese, i.e. the Young Malay was in Indochina, particularly from the coastal areas of Cham and Khmer. The similarities of hundreds of words in Acehnese with those in Cham and Khmer languages have substantiated the assumption.

Ethnic Group in Aceh

There is quite a number of ethnic groups in Aceh:

Aceh, the largest, living from coastal areas to hinterland.

Gayo, in Central and Southeast Aceh.

Aneuk Jamee, in West Aceh, the southern part of South Aceh down to the coastal areas bordering with North Sumatera, and on the east coast of Banyak island.

Singkel: southeast of South Aceh.

Kluet: in the central area of South Aceh.

Alas: south of southeast Aceh.

Pulau: on Simeleu island.

Tamiang: South of Aceh.

LIST OF ACEHNESE GOVERNORS AND RESIDENTS

NO	NAME	POSITION	YEAR
1.	J.L.J.H.Pel	Militair En Civiele Bevelherber	1874-1876
2.	J.B.TH.Wiggers Van Kerchem	Militair En Civiele Bevelherber	1876
3.	A.J.E. Diamont	Militair En Civiele Bevelherber	1876 – 1877
4.	K.Van. Der Heyden	Wakil Militair En Civiele Bevelherber dan Civiele En Militair Gouverner	1877 -1881
5.	A.Prruys Van Der Hoeven	Vice Militair En Civiele Bevelherber dan Civiele En Militair Gouverner	1881 -1882
6.	P.H.F. Laging Tobias	Vice Militair En Civiele Bevelherber dan Civiele En Militair Gouverner	1882 -1884
7.	H.Demmeni	Vice Militair En Civiele Bevelherber dan Civiele En Militair Gouverner	1884 -1886
8.	M.K.F. Van Teyn	Vice Militair En Civiele Bevelherber dan Civiele En Militair Gouverner	1886 – 1891
9.	F.Pompe Van Meeder Voort	Vice Militair En Civiele Bevelherber dan Civiele En Militair Gouverner	1891 – 1892
10.	C.Deykenhoff	Civiele En Militair Gouverneur	1892 – 1896
11.	Letnan Jenderal. J.A..Vetter	Comandant Der Leger	1896 (April – Juli)
12.	J.J.K De Moulin	Civiele En Militair Gouverneur	1896 (Juli)
13.	C.V.J. Van Vliet	Civiele En Militair Gouverneur	1896 – 1898
14.	J.B.Van Heutsz	Civiele En Militair Gouverneur	1898 – 1904
15.	JHR.J.G.Van Der Wijck	Civiele En Militair Gouverneur	1904 -1905
16.	G.C.E. Van Daalen	Civiele En Militair Gouverneur	1905 -1908
17.	H.N.A.Swart	Civiele En Militair Gouverneur	1908 -1918
18.	A.G.H.Van Slutjs	Civiele Gouverneur	1918 -1923
19.	A.M. Hens	Civiele Gouverneur	1923 -1926
20.	Goedhart	Civiele Gouverneur	1926 -1930
21.	Philips	Civiele Gouverneur	1930 -1933
22.	A.PH.Van Aken	Civiele Gouverneur	1933 -1936
23.	J.Jenges Jans	Vice (fd) Gouverneu	1936 -1940
24	J.Pauw	Resident Atjeh	1940 -1942
25.	S.Tino	Atjeh Syu Tyokon	1942 -1945
26.	T.Nyak Arief	Resident Atjeh	1945 -1946
27.	T.P.P. Mohd. Ali	Vice Resident Atjeh	1946 -1956
28.	T.M.Daoed Syah	Resident Atjeh	1956
29.	Teungku Moehd.Daoed Beureuh	Governor Military Atjeh, Langkat dan Tanah Karo	1947 -1950
30.	Teungku Moehd.Daoed Beureuh	Governor of Atjeh	1950 -1951
31.	B.M.Danubroto	Resident Coordinator	1951 -1953
32.	Abdul Wahab	Resident caretaker	1953 -1954
33.	Abdul Razak	Resident Atjeh	1954 -1956
34.	Ali Hasjmy	Governor of Atjeh	1957 -1962
35.	Letkol.A.M.Namploh	Vice Governor of Daerah Istimewa Atjeh	1959 -1964
36.	Brigjen Nyak Adam Kamil	Governor of Daerah Istimewa Atjeh	1964 -1967
37.	Kolonel Hasbi Wahidy	Caretaker Governor of Daerah Istimewa Atjeh	1967 -1968
38.	A. Muzakkir Walad	Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	1968 -1978
39.	Prof.A.Majid Ibrahim	Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	1978 -1981
40.	H.Edi Sabara	Pj.Gubernur Kepala Daerah Istimewa Aceh	1981(April– Agustus)
41.	H.Hadi Thajeb	Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	1981 -1986
42.	Prof.DR.Ibrahim Hasan,MBA	Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	1986 – 26 Mei 1993
43.	Prof.DR. Syamsuddin Mahmud	Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	26 Mei 1993 -21 Juni 2000
44.	Ramli Ridwan, SH	Caretaker Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	21 Juni 2000 -25 Nop 2000
45.	Ir.H.Abdullah Puteh,M.Si		25 Nop 2000 – 2004
46.	Ir. H. Azwar Abubakar, MM	Caretaker Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	2004 – 2006
47.	DR. Mustafa Abubakar	Caretaker Governor of Daerah Istimewa Aceh	2006 – 2007
48	drh,Irwandi Yusuf, Msc	Governor Of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam	2007 – Now

The History of Aceh: A Synopsis

The exceptional geographical position of Aceh as the gateway to Malaka Strails is extremely important and influential in the making of its history. For centuries Indian and Arab traders procuring Indonesian spices had made Aceh an ideal place where business transactions, particularly barter trades, between the Arab-Indian traders and the Chinese were executed.

When Sriwijaya kingdom in Palembang was the only major enter port in Sumatera Island, Indian ships sailing to and from China always made a stop-over in Aceh. Consequently, this area had also served as a starting point before foreign cultures and religions expanded their influences in other part of Indonesia. Its strategic locations in the westernmost of the archipelago had facilitated the expansions. Indian traders, for example, introduced Hinduism and Buddhism in 7^th century. Six centuries later Arab traders started the teachings of Islam. In 17^th century the Portuguese stole a glance at Aceh.

The name”Aceh” originated from the native tongue. It has been use d to date. In the book”History of Melayu”, Aceh is called “Lam Muri” which happened to be the name of one of the eight kingdoms then existed in Aceh. The Venetian trader Marco Polo stopped over in Peureulak in 1292 and called Aceh ”Lambri”. Then the Portuguese called the Region ”Akhir” the Dutch “Akhin” and the Englishmen ”Achin”.

Marco Polo further noted that when he visited Giava, or Jawa Minor (Sumatera), there were eight large kingdoms, among others Lamuri, Peureulak, Samudera, Aru, and Tamiang.

Historical records have confirmed that Islam set foot on Aceh land before it made further expansions and that the first Islam kingdoms (Peureulak and Pasai around 13^th century) were founded here. The first Moslem king was Sultan Johan Syah in 601 Hijriah (1205 AD). The kingdom then became Aceh Darussalam kingdom in 1516 AD with Banda Aceh Darussalam (now Banda Aceh) as its capital.

Another kingdom was Samudera Pasei and the kings, Sultan Malik al Saleh, was converted into a Moslem in 1270 AD. Samudera grew rapidly and became an important kingdom in Malaka Straits in 14^th century.

Islam teachings and culture have been profoundly rooted in the spirits and way of life of Aceh people to such an extent that they are clearly reflected in their daily life and activities. For this reason from 17^th century onwards-when Aceh was under the king Sultan Iskandar Muda-Aceh has been widely known as”The Front Porch of Mekkah”. Unfortunately, the glory of the kingdom can not be maintained: the king’s successors failed to control his subordinates and ultimately the kingdom fell apart from within. The authority of the leaders was gradually deteriorating and outside influence was creeping to the kingdom.

The situation persisted until the Dutch – in their efforts to occupy the entire territorty of the country- declared a war in 1873. With a strong religious conviction, the people responded the challenge by declaring a holy war. The war lasted for 40 years and ended, at least formally, in 1903. In reality, however, the war had never come to an end completely: guerilla warfare was launched sporadically, undermining the Dutch government.

The presence of the Dutch in Aceh has, to a certain extent, affected Aceh cultures, notably in education. Modern western education has influenced the religion-based educational system “pesantren” through the indtroduction of a public school system, while at the same time incorporating general, and as such secular, knowledge and Dutch language in the curriculums. The pressure reached its peak in 1930 when some Dutch schools were set on fire. Uprisings in remote areas were taking place until the Japanese landed their army in1942.

When the real intention of the self-declared “old brother”(the Japanese) was unfailed-which was no different from the Dutch’s the war was diverted against the Japanese and ended when they capitulated in 1945.

The Japanese occupation did not influence Aceh much.

The contribution and participatrion of Aceh people during the Revolution Period were so great that the first President of the Republic of Indonesia praised Aceh by calling this area “a valuable asset of the nation”.

During this period Aceh people bought an aircraft anf handed it over to the Indonesian Government in Jawa. The aircraft was named “Seulawah”. This contribution was not only significant physically. Morally, it elevated the sense of pride of Aceh people for being able to take an active part in Revolution.

When the revolution was over, opportunities to establish contacts with other provinces, regions, and even outside world were widely open. New elements began penetrating into and mixing with local life and cultures, so that cultural transformations were unavoidable. Nevertheless, the originality and purity of Aceh are well preserved to date. The people welcome foreign elements provided they are not in contradiction with their religion, i.e. islam.

Economy and Development

Before 19^th century Aceh was one of the major producing areas of rice, pepper, rubber, and oil palm. In 17^thcentury, and later on 19^th century, Aceh produced to 50% of world pepper production.

By the end of 19^th century economic resource was discovered: crude oil and natural gas which were exploited by British Petroleum Matschapij and later on by Royal Dutch Shell. In 1971, the most substantial oil reserve in Indonesia was discovered in Aceh, and gigantic, sophisticated and integrated LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) plant was erected in Lhokseumawe. Its current production capacity is 18.8 million metric tons annually. Japan is the major export destination. Other Aceh’s reliable export commodities are rubber, coffee, copra, palm oil and timber.

Abundant coal reserve is available in West Aceh. Other mineral reserves are gold, silver, and gypsum. They have not been fully exploited to date.

An additional item that can be entered in the list of Aceh’s potentials to be developed in the future is tourism due to the fact that Aceh is rich of untouchable natural beauties and cultures. In view of its exceptional geographical location, Aceh could be made an attractive point of destination for foreign tourists in the future.

The majority of aceh people, or 80%, are farmers. Rice fields, unirrigated agricultural fields, and plantations have become their main sources of income. A great number of them also earn their living as fishermen. The most reliable sources of foreign exchange contributed by small holders are coffee and palm oil. In the past, rubber played a significant role. However, its contribution to the country’s economy is decreasing as the results of the declining world market prices of this commodity. The people are no longer interested in developing rubber plantations.

Three Instant Ways to Fight Insomnia

Many experts say that fighting insomnia successfully requires both long-term and short-term strategies. Some argue that the bed should be reserved only for sleeping and sex, while others advocate the idea of avoiding certain foods before bedtime. While such advice is definitely useful, there’s no arguing that it isn’t particularly helpful when tossing and turning under the covers at four in the morning. Chronic insomnia is something that should be dealt with professionally through a scheduled regimen, but for those sudden spells of sleeplessness, there are several things that can be done on the spot which will quickly ease the mind and body into a restful state.

Here are three instant ways to fight insomnia:

Take a Warm Shower

Since taking a cold shower in the morning can help wake mind and soul, a warm shower in the evening would logically help sedate the body and relax the mind. While this is certainly true on a superficial level, a warm shower goes much deeper when helping us fight insomnia. The science of nocturnal sleep cycles shows that people sleep deeper when their bodies are relatively cool, compared to their surrounding environment. By taking a warm shower before we head to bed, we are increasing the temperature difference between the environment surrounding us and our bodies, which leads to an overall faster cooling and deeper sleep. Also, a warm shower relaxes the muscles after a hard day’s work and gets us comfortably clean.

Eat a Banana

After showering but before brushing your teeth, eating a light snack that is high in tryptophan helps your body biologically gets ready for bed. Tryptophan is an amino acid found in bananas and dairy products, the chemical converts to melatonin and serotonin within the body, which in turn encourages sleep. Knowing this, some banana covered in yoghurt and topped with granola is an excellent bedtime treat which is loaded with tryptophan. Likewise, the classic glass of milk also shows some merit as a sleep inducer.

Clear the Mind

If your mind is still racing after you’ve gotten under the covers, try literally slowing it down. Start with the thought that’s already in your head and force yourself to repeat it over and over and over again, making it more drawn out each time. Also, try visualising whatever’s in your mind as being on a blackboard, and then mentally wipe your thoughts away. Finally, make sure to turn your alarm clock away from you so your mind is not preoccupied with trying to calculate how much sleep you’ve lost so far.

As stated before, these three instant techniques are not meant to replace proper professional help for chronic insomnia. However, for those of us who suffer occasional bouts of sleeplessness, and for those times when we simply cannot adhere to a regimen, performing all of these steps will almost always mean sweet dreams within moments. The faster you fall asleep today, the more time there is to spend on tomorrow!

Source: http://associatedcontent.com

People and Society

Before tsunami, 4.2 millions people live in aceh. After tsunami, Aceh population comes around 4.031.589 people.

In the course of Aceh history, interactions with foreigners, such as: Indians, Chinese, Arabs and European, have brought about lasting influences not only upon its culture but also on the physical appearances of the people. European type people, for example, are found in West Aceh, particularly in Lamno. Indian-type faces are common along the coasts, while Chinese are dominant in the north coasts.

The local language used in one area or by an ethnic group is frequently different from the others. But the most common one is Aceh language, the “lingua franca”. Other local languages are Aneuk Jame, Alas, Tamiang, Siumeule, and Klut. The language of the Gayo ethnic group bears no resemblance with other languages. Aceh has adopted and modified the Arabic writing system known as”Melayu Arabic”.

Almost all (over 97%) of Aceh people are devoted Moslems. Islam has been deeply rooted in their daily life as can be seen in the dress fashion of Aceh women. The influences of Islam are also clearly reflected in wedding ceremonies, inheritance law,etc. and Al Quran remains the principal reference. There are about 3,000 mosques, and more than 7,000 “meunasah” and “ mushalla” (Smaller size houses or place of worship). 3% of the people are Christians, Budhists, etc. However, they are all outsiders.

Before World War II, male youngsters were traditionally separated from female. Groups were formed on the basis of sex. They also played games separately. This situation has strongly affected Aceh cultures and arts as evidenced in one of the most popular dances called “seudati”. This dance used to be performed either by male or female dancers. The tempo, rhythms, and body movements are exclusively Aceh and definitely different from the traditional or local dances in any other areas of Indonesia. It is not unlikely that the dance has been strongly influenced by Turkish or Middle East dances.

The clothes put on by Aceh women are unusual ”black trousers” and “tukok”, a short-sleeve shirt. Unfortunately, this traditional dress is now rarely seen in public, except in certain ceremonial events. The oldest non-religious educational institute equivalent to university is Syiah Kuala, established on 2^ndSeptember 1979.

Round Two of Candidate Debate

In this round, the questions focused on economic policy. In investment regulation, unemployment and poverty, Megawati suggests that need revision on regulation; establish more infrastructures on Indonesia especially on the east. Susilo has another opinion, he would like to give easier chance for local investor, focus on agriculture and manufacture industries which could hire more employees, he also thinks that to difficult to change the outsourcing policy and optimize that could handled by local government, employer and employed which succeed in Batam . Jusuf Kalla prefer to improve the economic regulation on outsourcing policy, this policy not protect the workers at all.

When moderator ask about fuel subsidize, Susilo, Megawati and Kalla agreed that need to help people keep survive with more subsidize. The other side, government should use another technology like; gas, bio-ethanol, etc. So, where the money come from to implement this policy?? Mega thinks that if we can manage our natural resource like oil, gas mining and ocean in a good way, we will have enough money. SBY and JK have same opinion, efficiency on government, more entrepreneur, and more skilled worker.

In my opinion, Susilo always answer which safety mode. Not detailed in which side he will stand. Mega and Kalla has better program, revision in outsourcing in pretty well needed to give certainty and safety for workers. You can imagine if every one only works for years with a contract (not permanent) with short payment, a company could easily terminate them. And when there age increase, there is no more place for them. We need a leader who could conduct a new orchestra, new rule model, new improvement and effective result.

Round One Of Candidate Debate

Indonesian has begun the campaign for President this week; the first debate had given better opinion to choose who will be the next President of Indonesian. There are a few questions conduct by Mr. Anis Baswedan, to bring out the vision of each candidate. As we know that Indonesian has 3 couples candidate. Megawati Soekarno Putri – Prabowo Subianto, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono – Budiono and Jusuf Kalla – Wiranto. Each candidate are mixed from civil and military, Megawati, Budiono and Jusuf comes from civil and Prabowo, Susilo and Wiranto was great army general.

When Mr. Anis comes to question about lately condition of Indonesian ARMY, Megawati, Jusuf Kalla and Bambang Yudhoyono agree that military should have more funds to equip better troops. But only Bambang Yudhoyono describes the budget number (35 Billions Rupiahs for next years). In Lapindo disaster, illegal charge, Indonesian labor who works overseas and human right, all candidates has same vision. Upgrade discipline, character, supervision, reward and punishment, establish good relationship with others country, optimist, etc. are their solutions.

One thing had made me give more credit to Susilo Bambang that he would like to use IT (Information Technology) to reform the bureaucracy, its one great idea, make data goes faster, work in better way, great transparency and can develop clean government easily. Next leader should create a high standard for civil servant, high salary, high technology, less time to process, only a few staff in each department to let the computer help fully. If Indonesia could conduct professional civil servant, would give deep impact of investment climate. Private company wills growth certainly, and of course the leader also implements good law policy and better economic recovery.

Climate and Weather in Aceh

It rains throughout the year in Aceh. The rain comes down from Bukit Barisan mountain range and from other surrounding mountains of more than 2,000 – meter high; among others: Leuser mountain (3,145 meters ASL/above sea level), Anu mountain (2,750 meters ASL), Abongabong mountain (2,985 meters ASL), Tangga mountain (2,380 meters ASL), Bateemecica mountain (2,140 meters ASL).

Regardless of the incessant rains, seasonal changes are still clearly noticeable. Normally, dry season lasts from July until September preceded by a long dry spell from March. Wet season is from December until March. The temperatures generally range from 25^o C to 30^o C, and now and then could reach up to 32^o C in dry season. The temperatures in the plateau range from 19^oC to 20^oC.

As a whole, the relative humidity is high, particularly a long the west coast where it is extremely humid and wet. It rains almost everyday. In some areas the rainfall could reach 4, 00 mm/year.

In the east, however, the winter is dry although the rainfall is never less than 2, 00 mm per annum. The dry season is from March until end of July. From May to September, the soft North wind frequently changes in to hurricane. To the local people in Laut Tawar area the strong wind, called “Depik wind”, is considered a blessing in this disguise, since during this period the will be busy catching a specific fish called “Depik” which, due to the strong wind and current, is cast ashore and can be easily caught.

Forest

The tropical forests in Aceh are rich with various plant and animal species. The evergreen and dense forests provide wild creatures with ample vital elements to survive. Numerous wild animals such as rhinoceros, deers, elephants, monkeys, birds (notably large hornbills), tigers, etc. are still available, unharmed by human being. Also to be noted are beautiful and colorful butterflies.

Total forest area is 4,130,000 hectares or 74.56% of the land area of which 20.58% or 849,956 hectares are protected forest and 37.82% or 1,561,996 hectares preserve forest. The Leuser National Park (80,000 hectares) is the largest in Southeast Asia. It extends 100 kilometers from Aceh up to Sibayak volcano in North Sumatra Province and it’s closely preserved to maintain its purity as a tropical forest. It has become the pride of Aceh people.

The Land

Aceh is one of 33 provinces within the territory of the Republic Indonesia. The capital of the province is Banda Aceh which, in the past until 1962, used to be popularly known as Kutaraja.

In view of its extraordinary role in the history of the nation, Aceh is also commonly referred to “The Front Porch of Mekkah, ““The Land of Iskandar Muda, “and “The Land of Rencong”. Bung Karno, the first president of the Republic Indonesia, called Aceh the asset of Nation.

It was in Aceh that the first Islamic Kingdom was founded in 9 Century. From this kingdom Islam was spreading sequentially to other areas in Indonesia. Aceh has become “The Front Gate of Islam”.

The Land, Nature and Environment

Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam is located in the northernmost of Sumatera Island, or in the westernmost of archipelago of 17,000 islands of Indonesia. It extends from 2 to 6 degrees north latitude and from 95 degrees to 98 degrees longitude, covering an area of 57,365.57 square kilometers. Average altitude is 125 meters above sea level. Boundaries: Indonesia Ocean on the west, and Malaka Straits on the north and east. Two rivers border the northern parts of South Aceh, they are Simpang Kiri river on the east and Tamiang river on the west. These river also serve as the natural boundaries between Aceh and South Sumatra Province. The borders are based on a concensus and historical developments of the respective areas or provinces.

There are 119 islands, big and small, in Aceh waters. Weh Island is located on the westernmost. It is also frequently called “ Sabang Island”, named after Sabang, the capital scatter around Weh Island, such as Breuh Island, and Nasi Island.

Along the western part of Aceh, there are some bigger island, such as simeulue Island, Tuanku Island, Babi Island and Banyak Island.

The main-land of Aceh extends from north to south, or to be more accurate, from northwest to southwest. Bukit Barisan mountain range cuts across the province of Aceh southwards along Sumatera Island. The areas west of the mountain range are narrow and covered with dense forest. The hills are steep. There are some sheer cliffs facing the ocean. On the opposite side of the mountain range, there are vast low-lands with well irrigated wet rice fields; while along the shore of Malaka Strait, mangrove trees are densely and widely grown. Compared with the clear and transparent sea water in west beaches, the sea water in the east is somewhat brownish. This is due to the fact that a great deal of rivers flowing both in Sumatera and Malaysia empty into the Malaka Strait. Some big rivers in Aceh which empty into Malaka Strait are: Aceh River, Peusangan River and Jambo Ae River.