Tag : Keseharian, tips - Asep Haryono | Beginner’s Guide to Personal Finance: How to Save, Budget, and Grow Your Money - Powered by Blogger

Managing money often feels intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Think of personal finance as a set of simple habits that give you more control over your life. It’s not about being super strict or cutting out everything fun it’s about finding balance so you can enjoy today while preparing for tomorrow. The earlier you start, the easier it gets, because small steps today grow into big results over time. Whether you’re earning your first paycheck or just want to feel more secure, here are six essential steps to start building financial confidence.

A Stack of Indonesian's bill notes. Photo Asep Haryono

1. Understand Where Your Money Goes
Think of tracking your expenses like detective workyou’re solving the mystery of “where did my money go?” When you start writing down or using an app to record every purchase, you’ll notice patterns. Maybe your daily iced coffee is costing you $60 a month, or those late-night online orders are stacking up. Once you see the numbers, it’s easier to decide what’s really worth it. Awareness is power: when you know your habits, you can cut back on what doesn’t matter and redirect that money toward what does like savings, trips, or goals that truly excite you.

2. Create a Budget That Works
A budget isn’t a punishment it’s your financial roadmap. The 50/30/20 rule is a great starting point, but you can adjust it to fit your lifestyle. For example, if you live in a big city with high rent, maybe your “needs” take 60%. That’s okay! The goal is to plan, not restrict. Think of it like meal-prepping for your money you decide in advance where it goes, so you don’t overspend on impulse. And don’t forget to leave room for fun! A budget that allows little joys is easier to stick to than one that feels like torture.

3. Build an Emergency Fund
Imagine your phone suddenly breaks, or your car needs urgent repairs what do you do? An emergency fund is your safety net, protecting you from panic when life throws curveballs. Experts suggest 3–6 months of expenses, but don’t let that number scare you. Start with baby steps: even $5–$10 a week adds up. Put it in a separate savings account so you’re not tempted to touch it. Over time, you’ll feel this quiet confidence knowing you can handle surprises without borrowing money or stressing out. It’s like giving your future self a gift of peace of mind.


You may also read - "3 Mistakes to Avoid While Paying Off Debts"


4. Avoid Bad Debt
Debt itself isn’t evil it depends on how you use it. A student loan or mortgage can be considered “good debt” because they help you grow. But high interest credit card debt? That’s the tricky one. If you carry a balance, the interest piles up fast, making it hard to escape. The best rule: if you can’t pay it off in full each month, think twice before swiping. Use credit cards for convenience or rewards, not to fund a lifestyle you can’t afford. Remember: every time you avoid unnecessary debt, you’re giving yourself freedom and less stress in the future.

5. Start Investing Early
Investing isn’t only for Wall Street people in suits it’s for anyone who wants their money to grow. Thanks to compound interest, the earlier you start, the more time your money has to multiply. Even investing $20 a month can make a difference over years. Think of it like planting a tree: the sooner you put the seed in the ground, the bigger it’ll grow. Today’s apps make investing beginner-friendly, so you don’t need thousands of dollars or deep knowledge. Start small, stay consistent, and let time do the heavy lifting. Your future self will be grateful you started now.

6. Learn Continuously
Money rules keep changing, and there’s always something new to discover. The good news is, learning about personal finance can actually be fun if you find sources that match your style. Prefer videos? Check out YouTube creators who explain things simply. Love reading? Blogs and beginner-friendly books can be gold. Even following finance accounts on social media can sneak in quick lessons. The more you learn, the more confident you’ll feel making decisions whether it’s about saving, investing, or spending wisely. Think of it as leveling up in a video game: each new skill makes you financially stronger.

Ready to take charge of your money?
Start with these six simple steps today track your spending, budget smartly, and build habits that last. Don’t wait for “someday” the best time to begin is now! Share this guide with your friends and let’s grow financially strong together.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Keseharian, tips - Asep Haryono | 10 Simple Habits for a Healthier and Happier Life - Powered by Blogger

When we think about health and happiness, we often imagine big changes like running a marathon or adopting a whole new diet. But the truth is, lasting happiness and good health usually come from the little things we do every day. Small habits add up, shaping the way we feel, think, and live.

The best part?

You don’t have to spend a lot of money or time to make your life better. Here are ten simple habits you can start today to improve both your health and happiness.

Happy face of mine with happy face of children

1. Start Your Day with Gratitude
Starting your morning with gratitude sets the tone for a positive day. Instead of diving into emails or social media, pause and reflect on three things you’re thankful for. They can be as simple as a good night’s sleep, a supportive friend, or the smell of your morning coffee. Gratitude rewires your brain to focus on abundance rather than lack, helping you reduce stress and improve mental health. You can keep a gratitude journal, write sticky notes, or just reflect silently. With time, this practice builds resilience, increases optimism, and makes you more mindful of life’s everyday blessings.

2. Drink More Water
Hydration is often overlooked, yet it’s one of the simplest ways to boost your health. Water regulates body temperature, supports digestion, cushions joints, and delivers nutrients to your cells. Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and poor concentration. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 6–8 glasses daily, but your needs may vary depending on activity level and climate. If plain water feels boring, infuse it with lemon, cucumber, or mint for extra flavor. Carrying a reusable water bottle can serve as a reminder to sip regularly. Staying hydrated keeps you energized and focused throughout the day.

3. Move Your Body Every Day
Exercise doesn’t need to be intense to be effective. Regular movement keeps your heart healthy, strengthens muscles, and improves mental health by releasing endorphins. Aim for at least 20–30 minutes daily this could be brisk walking, cycling, yoga, or even dancing to your favorite songs. If you sit at a desk for long periods, stretch or take short walks to reduce stiffness. Consistency matters more than intensity, so find an activity you enjoy and make it part of your routine. Even small efforts, like taking the stairs or parking farther away, count. Movement keeps your body energized and your mood uplifted.

4. Get Enough Sleep
Quality sleep is as important as nutrition and exercise. Adults need 7–9 hours of restorative sleep each night, yet many people struggle due to stress, late-night screen use, or irregular schedules. Poor sleep affects mood, memory, immunity, and even weight management. To improve sleep hygiene, establish a calming bedtime routine, dim lights an hour before bed, and keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and dark. Avoid caffeine in the evening and limit phone or laptop use, since blue light disrupts melatonin production. Prioritizing sleep helps you wake refreshed, improves productivity, and supports long-term health. Think of it as nightly self-care.

5. Eat More Whole Foods
Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains provide essential nutrients your body needs to thrive. Unlike processed foods, they are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support digestion, heart health, and energy levels. You don’t need to follow strict diets simply add more colorful produce to your plate and choose minimally processed ingredients when possible. Try replacing sugary snacks with fresh fruit, or swap refined grains for brown rice or oats. Eating whole foods not only fuels your body but also stabilizes blood sugar and boosts mood. Over time, this habit builds lasting health benefits.

6. Spend Time Outdoors
Nature has a powerful impact on mental and physical well-being. Spending just 20 minutes outside can lower stress hormones, improve mood, and increase vitamin D levels, which support bone health and immunity. You don’t have to plan long hikes even a short walk around your neighborhood, sitting in a park, or enjoying fresh air on your balcony can make a difference. Outdoor time helps you feel grounded, more present, and connected to your surroundings. It’s also a natural way to break away from digital distractions. Make it a habit to step outside daily, breathe deeply, and soak in the world’s beauty.

7. Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen time can lead to digital fatigue, disrupted sleep, and reduced productivity. Constant scrolling exposes you to information overload and comparisons that affect mental health. Setting healthy boundaries helps restore balance. Try implementing rules such as no phones at meals, turning off notifications, or having a tech-free hour before bed. Replace screen time with reading, journaling, or physical activities. Even small breaks like looking away from your screen every 20 minutes help reduce eye strain. By consciously limiting digital use, you reclaim time for meaningful interactions and self-care. Your mind feels clearer, and your days become more intentional.

8. Connect with People You Care About
Strong relationships are one of the biggest predictors of happiness and long-term well-being. Human connection reduces stress, boosts self-esteem, and even supports physical health. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures regular check-ins with friends, family dinners, or short chats with coworkers can make you feel supported and valued. Prioritize quality over quantity; a heartfelt conversation is more meaningful than endless small talk. In a busy world, it’s easy to feel isolated, but staying connected reminds you that you’re not alone. Building and nurturing relationships creates a sense of belonging and brings joy to everyday life.

9. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment. Meditation, even for a few minutes daily, can reduce stress, increase focus, and improve emotional balance. Start by finding a quiet spot, sitting comfortably, and paying attention to your breath. When thoughts wander, gently bring your focus back. You don’t need special tools just awareness and patience. Apps or guided sessions can help if you’re a beginner. Over time, mindfulness makes you less reactive to stress, more compassionate, and better able to enjoy life’s simple moments. It’s like giving your mind a reset button each day.

10. Do Something You Love Daily
Joy doesn’t always come from big achievements it often hides in the small things you love. Carving out time for hobbies or passions, whether it’s cooking, reading, gardening, or music, nurtures your soul and brings balance to life. These activities spark creativity, reduce stress, and give you something to look forward to each day. Even 15 minutes of doing something you enjoy can shift your mood and recharge your energy. Life can feel overwhelming with responsibilities, but dedicating time to personal joy helps you stay grounded. When you make space for what you love, you create a happier, healthier you.


How was it
Living a healthier and happier life doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small. Choose one or two habits from this list and practice them daily. Over time, these little changes will build up, creating a positive ripple effect in your health, energy, and overall happiness.Remember: progress is progress, no matter how small. Be patient, be kind to yourself, and enjoy the journey toward a better you.

Which of these habits do you already practice, and which ones would you like to try? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to share this article with friends who want to live healthier and happier too


Ready to start your journey toward a healthier and happier life?

 Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” begin with one small habit today Share this article with your friends and family to inspire them too, and let’s build a community that values simple, joyful living.

Together we can do more

By the way, which habit will you start with today? Drop your answer in the comments below I’d love to hear from you. See you soon my friends

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : tips - Asep Haryono | Essential Tips for Improving Self-Confidence in Public Speaking - Powered by Blogger

A few weeks ago, I was given the opportunity to deliver a short presentation on a project I had completed, in front of more than 200 people. At first, everything went smoothly my words flowed, and I felt confident. But as the minutes passed, nerves began to creep in. My voice started to shake, my hands trembled, and I struggled to hold the microphone properly. Anxiety took over, and those six minutes felt like the longest and toughest moments of my life.

Yes, I felt embarrassed, but I also realized something important: every great speaker has moments like this. It’s part of the learning journey. What matters most is that I stood there, faced the crowd, and delivered my message despite the fear. Next time, I’ll be stronger, more prepared, and one step closer to becoming the confident speaker I want to be.d.

A photo of a microphone

Public speaking can feel scary to me. Many of us get nervous when standing in front of a group even if it’s just a few people. Sweaty palms, shaky voice, and a racing heart are pretty common. But here’s the good news: confidence in public speaking is something you can build step by step. With practice, patience, and a few simple strategies, you can speak in front of others with ease.

In this article, let’s explore some practical tips that will help you improve your self-confidence and make public speaking a little less intimidating.


1. Accept the Nerves.They’re Normal
First things first: being nervous is completely normal. Even professional speakers feel some butterflies before stepping onto the stage. Instead of fighting the nerves, try to accept them. Think of nervous energy as fuel. It can actually sharpen your focus and keep you alert. The trick is not to let it overwhelm you.

Pro tip: Take a few deep breaths before you speak. Slow breathing calms your body and gives your mind a moment to reset.

2. Know Your Material Well
Confidence grows when you know your stuff. If you’re giving a presentation or speech, prepare thoroughly. Don’t just memorize words understand the main ideas. That way, if you forget a sentence, you can still explain the point in your own words.

Pro tip: Write down bullet points instead of full scripts. This keeps you sounding natural and prevents the “robot reading mode.”

3. Practice, but Make It Fun
Practice really does make perfect but it doesn’t have to be boring. Try rehearsing in front of a mirror, recording yourself on your phone, or presenting to a friend. You’ll notice small habits, like saying “um” too much or avoiding eye contact, that you can work on.

Pro tip: Smile while practicing. It might feel silly at first, but smiling changes your tone of voice and makes you sound more confident.

4. Focus on the Message, Not Yourself
A big reason people feel nervous is that they worry about how they look or sound. Instead, shift your focus to your audience. Ask yourself: What do I want them to learn or feel? When you focus on delivering value, your nerves naturally shrink.

Pro tip: Before speaking, imagine that your audience is made up of supportive friends. It helps you feel more relaxed and connected.

5. Start Small and Build Up
You don’t have to begin your journey by giving a TED Talk. Start with small opportunities: speak up in meetings, join discussions, or give a short toast at family gatherings. Each small win builds your confidence for bigger moments.

Pro tip: Track your progress. After every speech or presentation, jot down what went well and one thing you’d like to improve next time.

6. Embrace Mistakes as Part of Learning
Nobody is perfect, and every speaker makes mistakes. Forgetting a line, stumbling over words, or even losing your place happens to everyone. What matters is how you recover. Smile, take a breath, and move on. Most of the time, the audience won’t even notice.

Pro tip: If you do slip, use humor. A quick laugh at yourself can instantly lighten the mood and make you more relatable.

7. Keep Practicing. Confidence Is a Skill
Public speaking confidence isn’t something you’re born with it’s a skill you develop over time. The more you practice, the easier it becomes. Be patient with yourself. Every time you speak, you’re one step closer to mastering it.


Summarize
Building self-confidence in public speaking takes time, but it’s absolutely possible for anyone. Remember: nervousness is normal, preparation is key, and mistakes are part of the journey. The more you speak, the more natural it feels

Have you ever struggled with nervousness when speaking in public?
Share your experience in the comments
I’d love to hear your story! And if you found these tips useful, don’t forget to share this article with friends who might need a little confidence boost.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Indonesia, Keseharian - Asep Haryono | Today We Celebrate Our 80th Independence Day on August 17, 2025 - Powered by Blogger

Before you read this article, did you notice a new banner on my blog today? The one with a red and white background  a reflection of how happy I am as an Indonesian. Yes, that's what I mean! I’m so excited that my country, the Republic of Indonesia, will celebrate its 80th Anniversary of Independence. This is our joyful 80th August celebration!

At the national level, the Commemoration Ceremony of the Moments of the Proclamation of the Independence of the Indonesian Nation and the Hoisting of the Red and White Flag at the national/central level is held at the Merdeka Palace, led by the President of the Republic of Indonesia as the Inspector of the Ceremony. Photo from Mavink

Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day celebration today on August 17, 2025, is set to be filled with cultural performances showcasing the rich and diverse heritage of the nation from Sabang to Merauke. These events highlight the revival and preservation of Indonesia’s cultural legacy.

Indonesia’s Independence Day is a national holiday that commemorates the country’s declaration of independence on August 17, 1945. Every year on this date, Indonesians come together to celebrate their freedom with flag ceremonies and various fun competitions like tug-of-war, greased pole climbing, marble races, sack races, and many others.

A day before the official celebration, the President of Indonesia delivers a national address at the Parliament Complex to mark the occasion.


Flag Raising is a Must
According to Indonesian Law No. 24 of 2009 about the National Flag, Language, Emblem, and Anthem, Article 7 Paragraph 3 states that every citizen who owns or uses a house, office, school, public or private transportation within Indonesia, as well as Indonesian embassies abroad, must raise the red and white flag on August 17.

During August, the people of the Republic of Indonesia from Sabang to Merauke are required to display the national flag in front of their homes. This tradition is also followed by both government and private sectors across the country. It is a simple yet powerful expression of how proud we are as Indonesians to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of our Independence Day

Today, the government also encourages everyone to fly the flag throughout the entire month of August from the 1st to the 31st to honor Independence Day. Besides flying the red-and-white flag, people also decorate streets, villages, cities, and provinces with red-and-white banners and ornaments. This red-and-white theme represents our national colors and shows our love for the country during this special time.

At the national level, the official Independence Day ceremony takes place at the State Palace in Jakarta, led by the President of Indonesia, who currently is Prabowo Subiakto, serving as the ceremonial leader.


Festive Activities that Boost National Spirit
August 17 traditions in various parts of Indonesia reflect our cultural diversity and strengthen our shared identity. Some popular activities include: • Flag-raising ceremonies that honor patriotism • Traditional games like greased pole climbing, sack races, tug-of-war, and the ever-popular cracker-eating contest • Community clean-up events and group activities (gotong royong) • Cultural performances celebrating Indonesia’s local traditions and unity in diversity

The cracker-eating contest for children is one of the most popular competitions held by people all across Indonesia to celebrate the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia. Besides enjoying the fun and getting full, children also have the chance to win exciting prizes and gifts.Photo from Tribun Style

These activities not only bring joy but also strengthen the sense of unity and social connection among people of all ages and backgrounds. The games and teamwork teach values like togetherness and healthy competition while passing on the love for our country to younger generations.

Youth play a key role in keeping the spirit of nationalism alive. By joining in on the ceremonies and competitions, they learn about the nation’s struggle for independence and develop a deeper appreciation for it. Independence Day is also a great chance for young people to grow a sense of social responsibility and love for their homeland.

Core values like unity, teamwork, and hard work highlighted in these annual celebrationsare vital to building a strong and patriotic national character. That’s why families, schools, and communities all have an important role to play in guiding and inspiring young people to keep that national spirit burning bright

Happy 80th of  August

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : entertainment - Asep Haryono | Remembering Tommy Page. Before he died, He Used To Meet his fans in Indonesia in 2013 - Powered by Blogger

 If you grew up in the late ‘80s or early ‘90s, you probably know the name Tommy Page. He was the guy with the soft voice, sweet smile, and touching love songs that made many people feel special. For a lot of fans, his song “A Shoulder To Cry On” was the background music of their teenage years. But Tommy Page was more than just a singer he was a kind soul, a music lover, and a person with a deep connection to his fans, especially in Indonesia.

Tommy Page was born on May 24, 1970, in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, USA. His full name was Thomas Alden Page. He started singing in clubs in New York when he was still very young, and it didn’t take long before he got noticed. He became famous after releasing “I’ll Be Your Everything” in 1990, a song he co-wrote with members of New Kids on the Block (NKOTB). That song reached number 1 on the Billboard chart!

Some people thought he was part of NKOTB, but that’s not true. He worked closely with them and even opened for their concerts, but he was always a solo singer.

A Star With A Big Heart
Tommy wasn’t just a one-hit wonder. He had other beautiful songs like “A Shoulder to Cry On”, “Paintings in My Mind”, and “When I Dream of You”. His songs were soft, romantic, and full of emotions and fans loved him for that.

What made Tommy extra special was his connection to fans. He wasn’t a superstar with a big ego. He stayed humble and often met his fans in person. In fact, he said many times that Indonesia was like his second home.

A memorable moment was when the singer of A Shoulder to Cry On, Tommy Page, was warmly welcomed at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Tangerang, Banten, on Wednesday, November 13th, 2013, at 14:00 WIB. His concert in Indonesia was clearly something his fans had been eagerly waiting for.

All photos taken from BeritaSatu Youtube Channel

His Visits to Indonesia
Tommy visited Indonesia many times, even before he became super famous. He said he had been to the country about 20 times in the early 1990s! Later, in 2013, he returned for a special concert in Jakarta and Surabaya. Fans were thrilled! He also did meet-and-greet events in 2015 and performed again in Solo and Jakarta in 2016. He always said Indonesian fans were loyal and respectful.

"Some well-known international singers (other than Tommy Page) who came to Indonesia and left unforgettable memories include Selena Gomez (2016), Katy Perry (2012), Shawn Mendes (2019), Ed Sheeran (2024), Coldplay (2023), and Lenka Kripac the singer of “Trouble Is a Friend” who visited in 2009, 2011, and 2013.

And of course, Tommy Page will always have a special place in the hearts of Indonesian fans. But as this list shows, many international artists have also felt the love and warmth of performing here". 

His Personal Life
Tommy Page was openly gay and lived a happy life with his partner, Charlie, and their three children. He was proud of his family and often shared how much he loved them. Later in life, he worked behind the scenes in the music industry, helping young artists and even becoming a music executive at Billboard and Pandora.

His Sad Goodbye
On March 3, 2017, Tommy Page passed away at the age of 46. His death was ruled as suicide, and it was reported that he had been dealing with depression. His passing shocked many people around the world, especially his fans in Asia.

Even though he is no longer with us, Tommy Page’s voice and music still live on. His songs continue to comfort, inspire, and bring back sweet memories. He may be gone, but he will always be remembered not just as a singer, but as a gentle soul who touched many hearts.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Opinion - Asep Haryono | National Lottery Revenue: Voluntary Tax or Moral Dilemma - Powered by Blogger

If a country runs a national lottery, do you think the revenue from it can be considered a form of tax and used to support national development of the country themselves?

The idea of treating national lottery revenue as a form of tax is interesting, but it’s not quite the same as traditional taxation. Taxes are mandatory payments imposed by the government, while lottery participation is voluntary you choose whether to buy a ticket or not.

That said, in practice, lottery revenue often acts like a “voluntary tax,” especially because many participants may not realize how much they contribute over time.Many governments channel lottery proceeds into public projects, such as education, sports programs, cultural initiatives, or infrastructure development.

Stack of Money of Indonesia

This can help supplement national budgets without directly raising taxes. However, the fairness of this approach is sometimes debated. Critics argue that lotteries can disproportionately affect lower-income individuals, who may spend a larger share of their income on tickets, effectively creating a regressive funding source.

If managed transparently and responsibly, lottery funds can indeed support national development building schools, funding healthcare, or improving public services. The key is accountability: ensuring that the money is used for clear, beneficial purposes and not lost to inefficiency or corruption. So, while it’s not technically a tax, it can function similarly in raising government funds for the country’s growth

"There are over 100 countries globally possibly between 100 and 180 that conduct national (state-run or state-sanctioned) lotteries used as a source of revenue by governments to support national development, public services, or charitable causes.

In the 1980s, PORKAS and SDSB were both National lottery programs conducted by The Republic of Indonesia that became quite famous (and controversial). Sumbangan Dana Sosial Berhadiah (Social Contribution with Prizes) and Kupon Porkas Sepakbola (Porkas Football Coupon). PORKAS was Criticized by religious groups and anti-gambling advocates, leading to its closure in 1987. SDSB Officially banned in 1993 by President Suharto"


You may read - Indonesia's Lottery Of The Past.


The morality aspect of a national lottery
This is where things get more complicated . For many religions, including Islam and some branches of Christianity, gambling is considered morally wrong because it’s seen as earning money from chance rather than productive work. In Islam, for example, maysir (gambling) is explicitly prohibited, and lotteries fall into that category. For believers, buying a lottery ticket could be viewed as violating religious principles, no matter how the revenue is used.

From a moral standpoint, even in secular societies, critics argue that state-run lotteries can exploit human vulnerability. They often market the dream of instant wealth, which can be particularly tempting for those struggling financially sometimes leading to addiction or poor financial decisions. This raises the question: is it ethical for a government to profit from its citizens’ hopes and risks, even if the money funds public projects?

On the other hand, supporters claim that since participation is voluntary, it respects personal choice. They argue that as long as the lottery is regulated, transparent, and its revenue is used for the public good, it can be morally defensible in a pluralistic society. Ultimately, morality here depends on one’s worldview religious, cultural, and personal beliefs heavily shape whether lotteries are seen as acceptable or not.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Indonesia, Keseharian - Asep Haryono | Indonesia’s Lottery of the Past - Powered by Blogger

Now, let’s travel back to Indonesia in the 1980s. In 1985, the Indonesian government launched Porkas (Pekan Olahraga dan Kesenian), an official lottery meant to raise funds for sports and arts events like Pekan Olahraga Nasional (PON). Tickets were sold openly through post offices and authorized agents, and the draws were even televised.

In 1989, Porkas was replaced with Sumbangan Dana Sosial Berhadiah (SDSB) which means “social donations with prizes.” The idea was still the same: buy a ticket, support national projects, and maybe win big.

But this didn’t last long. By the early 1990s, religious groups and community leaders criticized the scheme, saying it promoted gambling addiction and moral decline. In 1993, SDSB was banned, and since then, Indonesia has kept a very strict stance against most forms of gambling.

When we compare the Wisconsin Lottery in the US with Indonesia’s Porkas/SDSB, we see a similar concept but very different outcomes.

In terms of legality, Wisconsin’s lottery is still alive and well, backed by strict state regulations. Indonesia’s, on the other hand, started off legal but was permanently banned in 1993 after public and religious backlash.

 

This lottery ticket called "SDSB" which very famous in the era of 1980's which might be the first national recognized lottery in Indonesia. 
Photo taken from Boombastis

PORKAS TICKET. Image from DETIK

The public image also took different turns. Wisconsin frames its lottery as “fun for a cause” buy a ticket, help fund the community. Indonesia once promoted its lottery as a way to “support sports and development”, but over time it became a moral controversy. The end result? Wisconsin’s lottery survives with regular oversight and fraud crackdowns, while Indonesia’s was shut down entirely in the name of public morality

A stack of Indonesian banknotes with a total value of over 50,000,000 Rupiahs (IDR).
Photo by Asep Haryono.

"..If you’re referring to Indonesia in the 1980s, PORKAS and SDSB were both state run lottery programs that became quite famous (and controversial). Sumbangan Dana Sosial Berhadiah (Social Contribution with Prizes) and Kupon Porkas Sepakbola (Porkas Football Coupon). PORKAS was Criticized by religious groups and anti-gambling advocates, leading to its closure in 1987. SDSB Officially banned in 1993 by President Suharto after mounting criticism and fatwas declaring it haram"

You may also read ".National Lottery Revenue : Voluntary Tax or Moral Dilemma:


The Moral Lesson for Kids
This brings us to a bigger question: what do children learn when they see their parents love gambling? If parents gamble often without setting boundaries, kids might think it’s a normal or reliable way to make money. That can lead to unrealistic expectations about luck and success. On the flip side, if parents treat it as occasional entertainment and explain the risks, it can become a teaching moment about chance, responsibility, and the value of hard-earned money.

The safest message? Gambling should never replace earning through effort, and winning should be seen as luck, not a plan. Lotteries may look like simple games, but they live at the crossroads of economics, entertainment, and ethics. Whether they continue like in Wisconsin or vanish like in Indonesia depends on how each society balances money-making with moral values.

I'd love to hear more about this topic!

Are there any lotteries or gambling activities that are officially regulated or run by the government in your country? If your country runs a national lottery, do you think the revenue from it can be considered a form of tax and used to support national development?

Please feel free to share your knowledge here.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Keseharian, Teknik Blogging - Asep Haryono | Updating Your Blogger Favicon for Better Branding?Its optional. Your call - Powered by Blogger

I have seen many of my fellow American bloggers let their favicon remain as the default “B.” I’m talking about blogs (often on Blogger/Blogspot) that still display the default orange “B” favicon the little icon that appears in the browser tab next to the site title.

That “B” is the standard Blogger logo favicon, and many bloggers never bother to replace it with their own custom one. This usually means they haven’t customized that part of their site settings, so the platform just uses the default branding.

I will not explain how to change that favicon to make a blog look more professional and branded you can easily find plenty of tutorials online on how to change the Blogger favicon (replace the default orange “B” logo with your own).

When It’s Fine to Keep the Default “B”. If your blog is purely personal, casual, or temporary.If you don’t care much about branding or standing out visually.If your audience already knows your site well and the “B” doesn’t bother them.

Updating your favicon is not mandatory, but it’s a small change that can make a big difference in branding and perceived quality like wearing a nice name tag at an event instead of the one they gave you at the door.

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When choosing a favicon for your blog, keep in mind that it appears very small usually 16×16 or 32×32 pixels so clarity is everything. The ideal favicon is simple, iconic, and instantly recognizable. Instead of using a full personal photo, which will blur and lose detail at tiny sizes, opt for a clean, minimal design that represents your brand.

Good options include:
1. A simplified version of your logo remove small text and keep the main shape or symbol.

2. Your initials or monogram bold, clear lettering like “AH” for Asep Haryono.

3. A symbol tied to your niche such as a pen for a writing blog or a camera for photography.

4. A flat icon in your brand colors adds personality while staying sharp.


 Avoid detailed images, fine lines, and generic stock icons. Always design your favicon in a larger size first (SVG or high-res PNG), then scale it down for maximum sharpness.

A custom favicon isn’t mandatory, but it adds a professional touch, strengthens branding, and makes your site easier to recognize among many open tabs. Small detail, big impact and worth the few minutes to update.

Updating Your Blogger Favicon for Better Branding?

Its optional. 

Your call

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