The World Harmony Run 2008 started today in Jakarta, Indonesia! We were especially looking forward to running in Indonesia, as the nation is famous as a home for the peaceful and respectful co-existence of all beliefs and cultures.

Our international team arrived in the Indonesian capital last night, for its 3-week journey through 6 Asian countries.

On our arrival at the airport, the Indonesian WHR team, with runners from all parts of the country welcomed us.

We went by bus to an unexpected dinner at the Jakarta residence of the Royal Family of Solo, Prince Dipo Kusumo and Princess Febri Kusumo, long-term friends of our World Harmony Run. We spent a wonderful evening there before enjoying a good night's rest in anticipation of a long first day!

Our first event took place at Springfield School, an international school with kids from many countries. The kids were already waiting for us when we ran in, dripping from the heat!

The principal of the Junior School, Mrs. Kerry Paterson and the principal of the Secondary School, Mr. Andrew Paterson welcomed us.

We presented the WHR to the kids and sang the World Harmony Run Song for them! It was really encouraging to see all the smiling faces and the enthusiasm when we passed the torch around! All the kids offered a wish for peace and friendship!

Afterwards the children were quite happy when the teachers ran a lap for harmony!

They were even more delighted, when they themselves were allowed to run!

Around noon we arrived at the Islamic Organisation N.U. (Nahdlatul Ulama).

The secretary general of the Central Board, Dr. Endang Turmudi, MA and Chairman of Student's Organisation for the N.U., Mr. Idy Muzayyad received the torch. We shared our mutual ideals and goals, such as harmony, friendship and understanding among all people in the world.

The WHR team was treated to a delicious lunch by the owner of the "Body and Fitness Studio", Mr. KRTH. Tedjodiningrat Brotoasmoro.

A short workout by our team members increased appetite dramatically. Thanks for the great and very healthy food!

In the afternoon we were invited to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, where the Deputy of Youth Empowerment, Dr. H. Sakhyan Asmara, M.SP and the Secretary General of the Indonesian National Youth Council Central Board, Mr. Munawar Fuad warmly received us on behalf of the Minister.

Together with some Indonesian World and National Champions, like Mrs. Nunung Selowati (Swimming), Mr. Niko Tumas (Boxing), Mr. Budiarto (Wrestling) and Mr. Haoi Wihardja (Taekwondo), and staff members of the Ministry, we presented the World Harmony Run in a hearty conference-like meeting.

The Deputy presented us with a special gift of appreciation, and a final group picture ended the meeting. Special thanks to Mr. Munawar Fuad, who made this nice meeting possible!

A good dinner concluded the first day of a new year of running!

Indonesian team members: Abhishek, Jyoti, Farah, Yayuk, Ayu, Masmirah, Masmanik, Artini, Adi Arini, Manik Darsini, Wayan Purna, Dayu Aryati

---

Team Members:
Dipavajan and Apaga Renner, Michael Amaranta (Austria), Marjan Jauk (Slovenia), Angela Muhs (Germany), Sandro Zincarini (Italy) and Michaela Pokorna (Czech Republic).

Gallery: See more images!

Indonesia 1 February >