22 Feb Ary Purnami
Hi, my name is Ni Komang Ary Purnami, I go by Ary. I am from Badung Regency, especially Sibanggede Village. Compared to other areas in Badung that have tourist sites, Sibanggede is famous for its flowers, especially the champaka flower. Some people say “Sibang’s flowers are different.” It is also a very strategic location to go to many places, close to Ubud, Denpasar, and Canggu areas.
I first joined Bali Institute as a seasonal program assistant in 2022 while I was working on my own social enterprise. At the end of 2023, I started to join Bali Institute as a full-time staff member with responsibility for Impact Development and Program Leader. I am passionate about sustainability, social enterprise, and social psychology. Through my role here I can meet and support social entrepreneurs around Bali, learn new things by meeting new people, exploring new places and experiences.
What is your favorite food?
It’s really hard for me to choose one favorite food because I love food. I’d say pork satay would be my favorite. Grilled satay meat that has a smoky smell and taste dipped in a hot and spicy sauce with rice cake. Uhhh so yummy!
What is your favorite Balinese holiday?
The Balinese holiday that I love and am always excited for is Nyepi, often called “silent day”, the Balinese New Year. Balinese people will need to follow “Tapa Brata Penyepian” including not working, not lighting or fire, not entertaining one’s self, and not going out of one’s houses. On this day, the island will close down for a day, people will gather with their families, reflect on the past year, and look ahead to the future with hope and optimism. It is also the most beautiful evening of the year when I will be able to sleep under a million stars. Very beautiful.
The best piece of advice you want to give to someone traveling to Bali?
Being respectful to local people and the culture is a must when traveling, not only in Bali. Being open-minded means being open to something new.
What is your favorite word in Balinese, that has no direct translation to English?
I like the word “Astungkara”. The meaning is similar to Amen and Godspeed. For me personally, saying Astungkara makes things more hopeful. Another term I like is “Rwa Bhineda” similar to Chinese Yin&Yang. Balinese people believe in duality, good and bad, to balance the universe.