Celebrating the 2nd anniversary of the centre

19 February 2009 was a very special day at Taman Permata Hati as it marked the 2nd anniversary of the Yayasan. ( Co-operative)

Whilst Kadek Suambara began his orphan support program in 1995, it was not until 19/02/07 that he was able to centralise the administration in a permanent building. So much has happened since then. The total number of orphans and disadvantaged children has more than doubled to 80+ and we now have sponsors in many countries and throughout Australia.

Day at the beach

To celebrate the month-long school holiday, the children went to the seaside for the afternoon. They had a lot of fun. The school starts again at the end of June and we'll receive the school reports in the middle of the month.

Our visit to Puwakan

A message from Ngurah (8 June 2008):

Today our Taman Permata Hati’s children (20 children) went to Puwakan. We went there because Ibu Claire invited us. In there, we sing a song. We sing 3 songs together in front of audience.
We meet with Puwakan’s Children. After we sing a song, Puwakan’s children show a dance. Their dance was very beautiful.
We heard a story from Pak Made Taro. He is a children's book writer. We are happy.

Progress on the building project

The orphan centre is growing! A new room is being added, with a kitchen for cooking classes, a library, a courtyard and a washroom. The builders started as soon as enough funds were raised. Here are a few photos to show you the progress.

When the work is completed, there will be 2 large classrooms for classes to be held simultaneously. There will also be a quiet area in the library where children can read or do their homework. In the kitchen, the children can learn some basic cooking skills.

Fun Bike Day, 1 May 2008

On May 1st, the cildren took part in the Fun Bike Day. They had all been given a helmet to ride safely. At the end of the ride, everybody gathered at the Bale Banjar for a lucky draw. The prizes were lovely big bikes.

Ramayana Dance

On 30 May, the centre's children performed the Ramayana Dance.

This is a very popular dance in Bali, originating from the great Hindu epic danced in many episodes. One of the most famous parts tells the story of Prince Rama, his wife Sita and his brother Laksama who are banished from their kingdom and wander in the forest where they face many adventures.The younger boys, quite befittingly, danced the part of the monkeys. They roll around the stage, scratch each other and often interact playfully with the children in the audience.

At the centre, the children learn traditional Balinese dancing every week with two excellent teachers. Boys and girls take a lot of pride in learning this essential aspect of Balinese Arts.
Above is a photo of a lesson: the boys are practising with their teacher.

Arya's birthday

Today, June 14th, the centre celebrated Arya's birthday. Many people attended the party: Arya's sister, Angarini and his mum, Nuli and many children from the centre. The cake looks very good!

Tomorrow, the children are going on a day trip to the beach to celebrate the start of a month-long school holiday.