Tag : curahanhati, Keseharian - Asep Haryono | Forest Honey: I Started My very first online business - Powered by Blogger

Starting something from scratch is never easy but that’s exactly what I’m doing. With nothing but an idea and a bit of courage, I’ve decided to start my own online business. The first product I’m focusing on? Forest honey.

Why forest honey? Well, it’s not only natural and delicious, but it’s also great for health and cooking. Even though many people are already selling the same product, I believe I can make mine different not by changing the honey itself, but through my service.

I want to build my reputation on being fast, responsive, and helpful. If a customer places an order, I’ll deliver it as soon as I can. I want them to feel special, like they’re getting something more than just honey they’re getting care, trust, and great service.

Right now, I’m working in partnership with a friend who owns the production he has the labels, the packaging system, and the product itself. His name is Eddy Setiawan. He was alumni of Gadjah Mada University in Jogjakarta. His other core business was sending Kratom to international customers

Forst Honey of Kalimantan

I’m working as a reseller or dropshipper at first until One day he offered me to stock the product of forest honey at my house so that I can focus on finding new way of promoting and getting customers for the product. The commission he offered was competitive and interesting. Ok I am down

Wow. Its cool. For me, it’s a big step.

My short-term plan is to promote the honey in my own neighborhood first. Real connections, face-to-face offers, and even casual chats with neighbors can go a long way. Once the stock is in my hands, I’ll start delivering it locally while also promoting through social media Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, maybe even TikTok. I am not really good at the TikTok by the way

Of course, my dreams don’t stop there. If this small effort works, I hope to expand to different cities, islands, and maybe even internationally. But for now, I’m focusing on one thing at a time. And while I do have access to other potential products like kratom, lempok durian, and crispy crackers I’ve decided to focus only on honey for now. One step at a time.

Ready to send to customers with cute packaging

Kalimantan Forest Honey 0.5 kg packaging

Kalimantan Forest Honey Packaged 1 kg

Wild Honey Packaging READY to Ship

1 US Dollar =

16.355 Indonesian Rupiah

Last updated · August 6th,  at 9:00 PM UTC

To support this business, I’ve already designed banners, brochures, and leaflets. I plan to combine ground promotion with digital marketing, because I believe both are powerful. A standing banner near my home, flyers for neighbors, and business cards are just as important as an Instagram post or WhatsApp story. It’s all about showing people I’m here, I’m ready, and I’m serious.

Yes, I still have a lot to learn marketing systems, advanced strategies, and maybe even creating my own brand in the future. But I’m not in a rush. Every big journey starts with a single step. This is mine.

---

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 : curahanhati, Keseharian - Asep Haryono | Why Do Westerners Kiss So Much? A Cultural Perspective from My Eyes - Powered by Blogger

I’ve watched countless Western movies romantic comedies, family dramas, even light-hearted sitcoms and one thing keeps catching my attention: kissing everywhere. Not just between lovers, but sometimes between friends, neighbors, or even family members. And I’m not just talking about a polite kiss on the cheek sometimes it’s a real kiss on the lips! As someone from Indonesia, I couldn't help but wonder, "Is this really how they live in real life?"

I try to find out and dive into this fascinating part of Western culture and see what’s really going on.

Minimal illustration of people kissing in different relationships on a beige background

First, Not All Kisses Mean Romance
In many Western cultures, kissing isn’t always romantic. Shocking, I know. In places like France, Italy, or Spain, greeting someone with a kiss on the cheek is totally normal even between men. It’s kind of like our handshake, but more personal. It says, “Hey, we’re close. We’re comfortable.” You’ll see this mostly between friends or family.

But here’s the twist: in the U.S. or U.K., cheek kissing isn’t as common. People usually greet with hugs, waves, or just “Hey!” Still, in some families, a quick kiss on the lips between a parent and child might happen. It’s not romantic—it’s just their way of expressing love.

Friends and Neighbors? Not So Fast…
Movies can exaggerate things. In real life, Westerners don’t usually kiss their friends or neighbors on the lips. If you see that in a film, it’s likely for drama or comedy. While friends might hug, cheek kiss, or do a “kiss on the air” (where their cheeks touch but lips don’t), lip kissing is rare outside romantic relationships or certain family dynamics.

So no your average American or Brit isn't kissing their neighbor on the lips after borrowing some sugar.

"Just like hugs. Hugs in Western culture can mean many things depending on the context. They’re often used to show support, gratitude, comfort, or friendship. In emotional situations like helping someone in need a hug can express what words can’t. It’s a deep, human connection. 

Not all hugs are romantic; many are just gestures of kindness and empathy. I saw in this video how a pregnant homeless woman hugged her helpers it really touched me. That kind of hug is called a gratitude hug, and it’s very common in the West. It's beautiful how a simple hug can mean so much.

In Indonesia, public displays of affection like hugging and kissing even between husband and wife are generally considered inappropriate, offensive, and disturbing to many. Such acts are usually kept private due to cultural and religious values that prioritize modesty and public decency..


You may read - Why Do Foreigners Speak So Many Languages?

Public Displays of Affection
One thing that’s definitely different from Indonesian culture is how public displays of affection (PDA) are viewed. In Western countries, it’s quite normal to see couples holding hands, hugging, or even kissing in public. Most people won’t stare or make a big deal out of it. But in more conservative or traditional societies (like ours), public affection might be seen as disrespectful or inappropriate.

A Cultural Reminder.What’s “normal” in one culture can be “shocking” in another. In Indonesia, physical touch is often reserved for close family or romantic partners—and even then, it’s mostly private. Meanwhile, in the West, showing affection physically is often a sign of openness, honesty, or comfort, not necessarily intimacy.

Kissing on the cheek or lips doesn't always carry the same meaning everywhere.

As someone who grew up in a culture where even holding hands can be controversial, watching these cultural differences play out on screen has been eye-opening. At first, I was confused. Then a bit shocked. But now I understand it’s not about being “too open” or “too loose.” It’s just a different way of expressing love and connection.

Culture shapes how we act, love, and even kiss.
Understanding those differences helps us see the world with more respect and less judgment.

---

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 : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Accused of Stealing Bread Because of a Lookalike - Powered by Blogger

I just watched a video from Indonesia titled “Emosi Food Vlogger Dituduh Curi Lapis Legit Gegara Mukanya Mirip, Kesal Banyak Komentar Maling” (Food Vlogger Accused of Stealing Layer Cake Because of Her Similar Face, Upset About Many Thief Comments) by Tribun Sumsel.

The point is: a lady is angry because many people accused her of being a thief not because there’s proof, but simply because she looks like the person suspected of stealing in the video.

Imagine you’re a food vlogger your world revolves around good eats, trying out new restaurants, sharing recipes, and snapping drool-worthy food pics. Life is good, right? But then, out of nowhere, you're being called a thief. Not because anyone caught you in the act. Not because there’s any real \evidence. But because someone who kind of looks like you was seen in a blurry CCTV clip… stealing bread.

Yep, that actually happened. And honestly?
That’s not just frustrating it’s totally unfair.


Mistaken Identity: A Real Problem
We’ve all heard stories about people getting mistaken for someone else. It happens. People can share similar features, wear the same hairstyle, or dress alike. That doesn’t mean they’re guilty of a crime. But in this case, a female food vlogger got caught in a whirlwind of accusations just because her face resembled someone caught on grainy security footage.

This kind of mistaken identity is more than just awkward it can be dangerous. Especially in today’s online world where judgment happens fast and facts come way later.

As soon as the clip started making the rounds, the internet did what it always does people went wild. Commenters flooded the vlogger’s pages, calling her names, accusing her of being a thief, and basically trashing her character. No trial. No context. \Just instant judgment based on shaky footage and a hunch. Let’s be real here: social media isn’t the place to decide who’s guilty or innocent. Yet people treat it like it’s the ultimate courtroom. That rush to judge? It’s reckless. And it can ruin someone’s life.

Now think about what that must feel like. You’re minding your business, maybe editing a cute food video, when you open your phone and find a storm of hate comments. You’re being called dishonest and shady all for something you didn’t do.

That kind of public attack can seriously mess with someone’s mental health. Anxiety. Shame. Fear. It’s enough to make anyone want to disappear from the internet completely. And for what? A case of mistaken identity?

We’ve Gotta Do Better
Before we slam someone with accusations or hit “send” on that angry comment, let’s take a step back and ask ourselves: Do I actually know what happened? Could this be a misunderstanding? What if this person isn’t the one in the video?

Because if we’re wrong and there’s a good chance we might be we could be contributing to the destruction of someone’s peace, reputation, and career. All because we acted too fast. The food vlogger didn’t steal bread. She just happens to resemble someone who might have. That’s not a crime that’s just an unlucky coincidence.

So instead of jumping on the hate train, how about offering some support? Or, at the very least, giving her the benefit of the doubt until there’s actual proof?

Let’s choose kindness over chaos.
The internet has enough trolls already. 

---

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 : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Why Do Foreigners Speak So Many Languages? - Powered by Blogger

I’ve always found this both funny and fascinating. I’ve watched many enutertaining YouTube videos like Just for Laughs: Gags, What Would You Do (WWYD), and Australian Border Force. These videos not only entertain me but also help me practice my English listening skills because I’m still on my English journey, by the way.

One hilarious video I recently watched was from BigDawsTV, titled “GOOGLE TRANSLATE GONE WRONG PRANK!!” It really made me laugh out loud. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend searching for it on YouTube. Just type the title in the search bar you won’t miss it!

This image taken from BigDawsTV Youtube Channel

But while watching it, something interesting popped into my head as an English learner: “Why are these foreigners able to speak so many different languages besides English?” They already speak English fluently so what motivates or enables them to speak French, Spanish, Arabic, or Chinese as well? That curiosity pushed me to dig deeper into the topic.

Why Foreigners Speak Multiple Languages
The more I researched and reflected, the more I realized that being multilingual isn’t just about being “smart.” There are actual reasons why some people learn foreign languages easily. It mostly comes down to environment, early exposure, necessity, and motivation.

In many countries especially in Europe and parts of Africa it’s normal for people to grow up speaking two or three languages. In places like Switzerland or Belgium, you’ll find children speaking French, German, Dutch, and English from a very young age. Their schools teach multiple languages, their neighbors speak different dialects, and crossing the border often means switching languages. It becomes a natural part of life.

Many of them also start early as kids which gives them a head start. Their brains absorb different sounds and structures more easily than adults do. And let’s not forget that many people are naturally curious and love learning languages just for fun, culture, or travel


You may also read - "Things Foreign Tourists Always Ask About Indonesia".


The Difference: Foreign Language vs. Second Language
This brings me to the terms “second language” and “foreign language”, which are often misunderstood. So what’s the difference?

• Learning English as a Second Language (ESL) means I am learning English in a country where it is spoken daily like the U.S., UK, Canada, or Australia. People in that situation are surrounded by English, so they need to use it to work, study, shop, or socialize. It becomes part of their daily survival.

• On the other hand, learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL) means I am learning English in a country where it is not used every day like my country,Indonesia. That’s my case. I don’t use English at the market, at school, or while talking with neighbors. I have to actively seek out English by watching YouTube, reading, or writing blog posts like this one.

That’s what makes my journey different. I’m learning English as a foreign language, and I need to create opportunities to practice. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely rewarding.

This is me with the Collins COBUILD English Dictionary. I’ll share the background story of this dictionary in my next blog post. This photo was taken a few years ago at my home

My Language Learning Journey
So no, I didn’t grow up speaking five languages. But that’s okay. I’m proud to say I’m learning English step by step from Indonesia, on my own terms. Watching videos, reading articles, blogging, and engaging online all help me make progress.

Every new word I learn is a small victory. I might not be fluent in several languages (yet), but I enjoy the process. And for me, that’s what really matters.


Are you learning English like me where it’s not spoken around you every day?

Or are you living in a place where English is part of daily life?

I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment below, and feel free to share this post with fellow learners!

---

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 : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Human Trafficking Still at Large — Be Aware - Powered by Blogger

When we talk about human trafficking, especially cases involving organ harvesting, we’re entering one of the darkest and most disturbing realities in the modern world. While sex trafficking and forced labor are sadly common topics in the news, organ trafficking remains largely underground but it’s happening.

Several recent reports including those featured on YouTube and major online news platforms have exposed shocking stories where victims were not only trafficked for work but ended up being threatened with death or organ removal if they couldn’t pay ransoms. It sounds like a horror movie, but it's real.

You may also read - A Promising Job Offer That Turned Into a Trap : A Real Story of Human Trafficking

This form of transnational trafficking usually begins with fake job offers. Victims are recruited online promised high-paying jobs in Thailand or Malaysia. But once they arrive, their passports are taken, and they’re sent to Cambodia instead, where they are locked in scam compounds and forced to work under threat. Most are made to commit cybercrimes, like online fraud or phishing scams, targeting people from around the world.

Here’s the darkest part: if they fail to meet quotas or their families can’t pay to rescue them, they are told to sell an organ often a kidney to pay their so-called "debt." Some survivors have spoken out, sharing that they received only a fraction of the money while the traffickers kept the rest. In several tragic cases, victims returned home dead and mutilated, their bodies missing vital organs.

One of the most heartbreaking cases is the story of Azwar (32), victim of Human Trafficking go viral on social media in Indonesia ,

Indonesia Study Case
One of the most heartbreaking cases is the story of Azwar (32), a resident of Dusun II, Bunut Village, Asahan Regency, North Sumatra. He dreamed of becoming a singer in Malaysia. In April 2025, he was recruited by a man named Hasan from Medan, who promised him a singing job with a salary of $800 USD. But instead of arriving in Malaysia, Azwar was trafficked to Cambodia and allegedly sold to a scam syndicate.

Trapped in one of these criminal centers, Azwar managed to send video messages and calls to his family, possibly hinting at the abuse he was enduring. Not long after, his family received the devastating news: Azwar had fallen from the third floor of a building. He died in terrible condition, and his death remains suspicious. Was it an accident? Suicide? Or was he killed?

Unfortunately, Azwar is not alone. His story echoes many others. Victims from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are being funneled into underground scam networks run by syndicates based in China, Taiwan, or Myanmar, using Southeast Asia as their operations base.

While authorities from Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia have begun working with Interpol and ASEAN, these criminal networks move fast and many victims are still unaccounted for. We must stay alert, educate others, and expose these stories. Let Azwar’s tragedy be more than just a headline let it be a wake-up call for stronger protection, harsher punishment for traffickers, and more support for the victims.

What Can You Do?
If someone offers you or someone you know a job overseas that seems "too good to be true," double-check the details. Always go through official government channels and registered agencies. If you suspect a trafficking case whether in your neighborhood or online report it immediately to local authorities or trusted organizations like BP2MI, Komnas Perempuan, or your local police.

Share stories like Azwar’s. Many victims fall into traps simply because they didn’t know the risks. One post, one conversation, can make a difference.

Support the victims. If you can, donate or volunteer with NGOs helping survivors of trafficking. Every bit helps in their recovery. Let Azwar's story open our eyes. Let’s stop pretending this isn’t happening. Together, we can raise awareness, demand justice, and stop the cycle of modern slavery. \

---

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 : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Dr. Marwan al‑Sultan, a Director of Gaza’s Indonesian Hospital along with his wife were killed by Israel Airstrike on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. - Powered by Blogger

As an Indonesian, my heart is heavy with grief today.

News has broken that Dr. Marwan al-Sultan, the Director of the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza, has been killed alongside his wife and family in an Israeli airstrike on July 2nd. The apartment where he lived was reduced to rubble. The man who helped save thousands of lives has now lost his own in a cruel and senseless act of violence.

Let that sink in for a moment.

 This isn’t just another name in the news. Dr. Marwan was the head of a hospital that bears our country’s name a symbol of Indonesian generosity, unity, and commitment to humanity. The Indonesian Hospital in Gaza is one of the few functioning medical centers in the war-torn strip, and for years, it has stood as a beacon of hope. Built with the contributions of Indonesian people and organizations, it is deeply tied to our nation's spirit of solidarity.

\

Images from DawnNewsEnglish

To hear that its director was killed in his home while his family was by his side is absolutely heartbreaking.

And I have to say this clearly:

I condemn this brutal act by Israel.

How can a country that claims self-defense justify the murder of doctors, nurses, and civilians in their own homes? What threat did Dr. Marwan pose? What danger did his wife and children represent?

Gaza has been under siege for months, and while headlines often focus on political figures or military strikes, we forget about the real people the doctors, the children, the teachers, the journalists who are living, suffering, and dying through all of this.

This is personal for us Indonesians. We have always stood beside the Palestinian people in their struggle for freedom and dignity. Our founding principles, Pancasila, call for justice, humanity, and independence for all. When an attack like this happens, it is not just a strike on Gaza it feels like an attack on something we, as a nation, helped build.

To the people of Gaza: We are with you. To the family of Dr. Marwan al-Sultan: We grieve with you. And to the government of Israel: You now have a problem with the people of Indonesia.

We will not be silent.

Let this tragedy strengthen our resolve to speak louder, act bolder, and support justice wherever it is being denied. From Jakarta to Jayapura, our hearts are with Gaza. From the mosques of Aceh to the cafes of Surabaya, we cry out: This is not okay.

Rest in peace, Dr. Marwan.

You were a hero in life and remain a symbol of hope in death.

---

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 : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Why is 1 Muharram Called the Islamic New Year? - Powered by Blogger

=Hey there!

If you’ve been seeing posts or greetings like “Happy Islamic New Year” or “1 Muharram Mubarak!” pop up on your social feed lately, you might be wondering: What exactly is 1 Muharram? And why do Muslims call it the Islamic New Year?

Well, let’s break it down together casually, of course.

What Is Muharram Anyway?

Muharram is the first month in the Islamic calendar, which is a lunar calendar. That means it follows the cycles of the moon, unlike the Gregorian calendar most of the world uses, which is based on the sun. Because of this, Islamic months move slightly earlier each year about 10 to 11 days.

So, 1 Muharram is like the 1st of January in the Islamic calendar. It marks the beginning of a brand-new Islamic year

So Why Is It a Big Deal?

1 Muharram is significant not just because it’s the first day of the year, but also because it’s part of one of the four sacred months in Islam. These months are considered especially blessed, and Muslims are encouraged to increase their good deeds and avoid conflicts.

But what really gives 1 Muharram its New Year title is history.
The Story Behind It

The Islamic calendar also called the Hijri calendar started during the time of Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), the second caliph after Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). A major event was chosen to mark the beginning of this new calendar: the Hijrah (the migration) of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.

This migration wasn’t just a physical journey. It marked the start of a new phase in Islamic history the foundation of a Muslim community and government in Medina. That’s why it’s such a powerful moment to start the Islamic year from.

Why Do Muslims Celebrate It Differently?

Unlike January 1st, the Islamic New Year isn’t typically celebrated with fireworks or parties. In fact, in many Muslim-majority countries, 1 Muharram is observed quietly with reflection, prayer, and remembrance. Some use the day to set spiritual goals for the year ahead, seek forgiveness, or simply thank Allah for the gift of time.

Some communities may gather for religious talks or meals, but it’s generally more solemn especially since the month of Muharram also includes the day of Ashura (the 10th of Muharram), which is a deeply meaningful and emotional day for Muslims.

The Islamic New Year, starting on 1 Muharram, is way different from the usual January 1st New Year. While the world celebrates with fireworks, parties, and countdowns,

Muslims mark their new year with quiet reflection and prayer. It’s a time to remember the Prophet Muhammad’s migration (Hijrah), which stands for sacrifice and starting fresh with faith.

There are no big parties just spiritual goals and gratitude. So, while the general New Year is about fun and resolutions, the Islamic New Year is more about the heart, the soul, and getting closer to Allah in a peaceful, meaningful way.



In Short…
1 Muharram is called the Islamic New Year because it kicks off the Hijri calendar, which began with one of the most pivotal events in Islamic history the Hijrah. It's a time for quiet reflection, a fresh start, and spiritual growth.

So, whether you’re a Muslim or just curious about Islamic culture, now you know the story behind this special day. Happy Islamic New Year 1447 AH may it be a year full of peace, blessings, and meaningful moments for us all!

Let’s start this new year with positive intentions!

If you found this article helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family.
Leave a comment below with your thoughts or how you plan to welcome 1 Muharram this year!

Happy Islamic New Year 1447 AH! 

---

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 : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | The Day Elon Musk Thanked Me: A Personal Glimpse into a Visionary’s World - Powered by Blogger

Elon Musk isn’t just another tech billionaire he’s a relentless innovator who blends bold risks with world-changing ideas. From leading Tesla’s electric car revolution to launching rockets with SpaceX, Musk dares to go where others hesitate. But recently, something unexpected happened: Elon Musk personally reached out to me.

It all started a few months ago when I frequently left thoughtful, supportive comments on his posts on X (formerly Twitter). I admired his courage, vision, and unconventional thinking not as a fanboy, but as someone looking for real-life inspiration to grow in business and life. Then, out of the blue, one of his team members contacted me. They said Elon wanted to express his gratitude directly and he did.

Through a personal message, Elon Musk thanked me for my support. It was a short exchange, but it felt powerful. He even invited me to consider joining a membership program he’s preparing ahead of his birthday on June 28, with options ranging from Regular to VIP levels. While I’m not financially in a position to join, the moment itself was meaningful.

What makes Musk unique isn’t just his businesses it’s his mindset. He taught himself rocket science by reading books. He dreams of making humans a multiplanetary species. He works tirelessly often 80–100 hours a week to bring his visions to life. He’s not waiting for the future; he’s building it.

Whether you admire him or not, one thing’s clear: Elon Musk is living proof that big dreams and persistent effort can lead to extraordinary things. For me, his simple thank-you wasn’t just a message it was a spark of inspiration.

Elon Musk and His Growing Interest in Indonesia
Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, has been showing serious interest in Indonesia and not without reason. With the world’s largest nickel reserves, Indonesia plays a key role in the global electric vehicle (EV) supply chain, especially when it comes to battery production. And guess what? Elon is paying attention.

A few years ago, Musk held a virtual meeting with President Joko Widodo to talk about potential partnerships, especially in EV development and energy sustainability. Even though he hasn’t visited in person yet, he did make a virtual appearance at the 2022 B20 Summit in Bali. There, he shared thoughts on innovation, future technology, and sustainable energy.

There’s also talk about SpaceX teaming up with Indonesia to expand Starlink satellite internet to rural and remote areas something that could be a game-changer for connectivity in the archipelago.

With Tesla eyeing nickel, and Starlink looking to connect more people, Elon Musk’s ties to Indonesia are only getting stronger. Whether or not he sets foot in Jakarta soon, one thing’s for sure Indonesia is already on his radar.

What do you think about my encounter with Elon Musk?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below—and don’t forget to share this post if it inspired you!

---

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 : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Thank You Caitlin, Megan, and Ellie As My First Follower from Abroad - Powered by Blogger

With heartfelt appreciation,

I thank you for being the very first supporters of Simply Asep Blog – https://simplyasep.blogspot.com.

Your blogs – elliencompany.blogspot.com and caitlinnmegan.blogspot.com 

 have been an inspiration.

Your early encouragement meant the world and helped spark this blogging journey.

Thank you for believing in me from the very beginning.

Presented by:

Asep Haryono

Indonesia

Date: June 3, 2025

Tag : curahanhati, Keseharian - Asep Haryono | When Blogging Feels One-Sided: My Thoughts on Comments, Connections, and Being Ignored - Powered by Blogger

As someone who loves blogging and making connections with people from all over the world, it really hurts when I put in the effort to engage with other bloggers especially from the US, Australia, and Europe  and get little to no response in return.

I’ve visited many blogs, left thoughtful comments, followed their content, and even added them to my blog list. But unfortunately, many of them never return the favor. Not even a single follow back or a quick “thank you” comment.

It makes me wonder: why?

At times, I can’t help but feel invisible or even worse, like I don’t belong. And yes, there’s a part of me that wonders if it's related to where I’m from or how I write. Is it racism? Or is there more to it?

After thinking long and hard about this, here are a few possible reasons why some foreign bloggers don’t return visits or interact with blogs like mine:

A young man with medium brown skin sits at a desk looking disappointed while using a laptop. A large speech bubble above him says "NO COMMENTS" surrounded by smaller empty speech bubbles and icons for LinkedIn and Twitter, symbolizing a lack of interaction on his blog

1. Cultural and Language Differences
Let’s face it not everyone feels comfortable interacting with people from different cultures or writing styles. Even if you’re writing in English, sometimes cultural nuances, phrasing, or even blog layout can feel “unfamiliar” to readers from Western countries. So instead of reaching out, they might just stay silent. It doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike you  maybe they just don’t know how to engage properly.

2. Busy Lives and Different Priorities A lot of bloggers in the West treat blogging more as a side hobby than a community. Many have full-time jobs, families, or packed schedules. That means they might not read or reply to comments regularly, or even check who follows them. It’s not personal  they might just be juggling too much at once.

3. Different Blogging Cultures
In my part of the world, it’s common to return comments, follow back, and build friendships through blogging. But in many Western blogging circles, the focus is often on SEO, monetization, or niche-specific growth. Some bloggers simply don’t pay attention to interaction  especially from outside their target audience.

4. You Might Be Getting Overlooked, Not Rejected
Let’s not forget: algorithms and platforms don’t always make things easy. Some bloggers use automated tools, and your comment might just be sitting in a spam folder or overlooked in a flood of other notifications. It doesn’t mean you were intentionally ignored.

5. Yes, Bias Can Be Real
Still, we have to be honest bias and racism do exist. Some people may not take bloggers from developing countries seriously. They may assume we have nothing valuable to offer, or they might just prefer to stay in their comfort zone. And yes, that hurts.

6. But Don’t Give Upc
Even when it feels like no one’s listening, I remind myself: I blog because I love it. I write to express myself, to connect, and to leave something meaningful behind. Not every blogger will respond, but that doesn’t mean your voice isn’t important. Keep writing. Keep showing up. The right audience will find you.

If you’ve felt this way too  ignored, left out, or disappointed  just know you're not alone. Let’s continue supporting each other and building real connections that go beyond borders and backgrounds.

Let’s keep blogging with heart.

---

Tag : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | When Kindness Feels One-Sided: My Journey into Global Blogging - Powered by Blogger

Over the past week, I made a major shift in the direction of my blog, Simply Asep. I transitioned from writing in Bahasa Indonesia to English — aiming to reach out and connect with a broader, international blogging community. The response was beyond what I expected. My blog has received between 600 to 2,000 daily visitors in just one week, with readers coming from various parts of the world. I felt seen. I felt hopeful.

But along with that excitement came an unexpected wave of sadness and disappointment.

Like many bloggers, I believed in the spirit of community. I took time to visit fellow bloggers’ sites, read their posts carefully, and left meaningful comments. I followed their blogs, not just for the sake of following, but because I genuinely enjoyed connecting with their stories and perspectives.

What hurt was this: many of them didn’t follow me back.

Now, I didn’t expect instant fame or a flood of compliments. But I thought maybe  just maybe  the kindness I extended would be reciprocated. It made me question things. Was it something about me? Was it because I’m from Indonesia, a Southeast Asian country not often in the global spotlight?

The thought crossed my mind: Could this be racism?

After sitting with that painful feeling for a while and observing more closely, I realized something important: it's probably not that personal. In fact, it’s likely not racism at all.

In the global blogging world, people engage in different ways. Many Western bloggers no longer use the “Follow” button on Blogger. They may read your blog through RSS feeds, bookmarks, or social media, without formally “following” you. Some are just more selective, while others simply don’t have the habit of following back.

And yes, many people are just busy. Distracted. Focused on their own lives. Online engagement can be inconsistent, and silence doesn’t always mean rejection.

My friends,

Here’s what I’ve learned — and what I want to share with others who may feel the same way:

• Focus on those who respond. When you’re growing your blog, it’s easy to feel discouraged by those who don’t reply, comment, or follow you back. But instead of focusing on who didn’t respond, shift your attention to those who did.
  
  Even one loyal reader is the start of a real community. These are the people who take the time to read, comment, and engage with your posts. Visit their blogs, build friendships, and show appreciation. Over time, these authentic connections will matter more than hundreds of silent views. Quality engagement fosters trust, and trust is the foundation of long-term blogging success.
  
  

• Keep commenting with purpose. Generic comments like “Nice post” are easy to ignore. If you want to build real connections, leave thoughtful, meaningful comments that reflect what you actually enjoyed about the post.
  
  Mention something specific a sentence, a story, a personal insight. Ask a follow-up question or share your own perspective in return. Bloggers notice genuine engagement, and they’re much more likely to visit your blog when you show that you’ve read theirs with care. It’s not about flattery — it’s about real human connection. Purposeful comments open doors to deeper blogging friendships and encourage reciprocal support over time.
  
  

• Invite engagement openly. Many bloggers hesitate to ask for support, fearing they’ll come across as needy. But a polite, warm invitation goes a long way. If someone enjoys your post, there’s nothing wrong with gently saying,
  
  “If you liked this post, feel free to follow my blog or leave a comment  I’d love to hear your thoughts!” This creates an open, welcoming environment and reminds readers that their interaction is appreciated. Some readers may enjoy your content but need a small nudge to engage more actively. Don’t be afraid to ask  you're inviting a connection, not demanding one.
  
  

• Don’t give up. It’s easy to feel invisible when you put your heart into a blog post and hear nothing back. But trust that your voice is being heard even if it’s quiet at first. Many readers don’t comment, but they are still reading and coming back. Keep going. Consistency builds visibility.
  
  Every post you write adds to your presence online. Over time, the right audience  people who truly connect with your message will find you. Stay passionate. Stay present. Don’t give up, because your journey is just beginning, and someone out there is waiting for your next post.
  
  

Blogging is about more than numbers. It’s about connection, growth, and sharing your voice. And sometimes, it takes a little longer for the world to truly listen.

So, to all my readers thank you. And to fellow bloggers, especially those just starting to reach out internationally: don’t let silence steal your spirit.

You belong here.

---

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"

---