The Bali Plastic Exchange is giving people rice in exchange for plastic trash that they bring in. The collected bottles, bags and other waste is shipped off and sold to a recycling company in Java.

Bali Plastic Exchange: One man's plastic trash is another man's meal | Trash for Rice

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every industry. However, among the worst hit was the Tourism industry.

The most deserted tourist destination in the world amid pandemic

An American woman deported from Indonesia after serving prison time for her role in her mother's 2014 "suitcase" murder was arrested on Wednesday on conspiracy charges when her plane arrived in Chicago, U.S. authorities said.

Heather Mack, 26, conspired with her boyfriend to kill her mother, Sheila Von Wiese-Mack, stuff her body in a suitcase and load it into the trunk of a taxi during a vacation on the Indonesian island of Bali, the US&nbsp;Justice Department said.

Mack was scheduled to appear in US&nbsp;District Court in Chicago, her home city, on Wednesday, it added in a statement.

Indonesian authorities arrested Mack and her boyfriend, Tommy Schaefer, 28, after the August 2014 killing. Schaefer was sentenced in 2015 to 18 years for premeditated murder, while Mack, then 19, received a 10-year sentence for being an accessory to murder.

A 2017 US&nbsp;grand jury indictment that was unsealed on Wednesday alleged that Mack and Schaefer came up with their plan to kill Von Wiese-Mack before they left the United States for Bali, and that Schaefer asked his cousin, Ryan Bibbs, about ways of killing her.

Mack asked Bibbs if he knew anyone who would kill her mother for money, and he pleaded guilty in December 2016 to one count of conspiracy to commit foreign murder of a U.S. national, the Justice Department said.

Under the department's contention that her plan was conceived in the United States, Mack faces two U.S. counts of murder conspiracy and one of obstruction, and a maximum statutory penalty of life imprisonment if convicted of the conspiracy charges, the department said.

Mack was deported following her release from prison on Oct. 29 as her permit had expired, an Indonesian immigration official said. Schaefer remains in jail.

Mack's lawyer, Yulius Benyamin Seran, said she was accompanied on the plane to Chicago by her daughter, to whom she had given birth before her sentencing.

An American woman deported from Indonesia after serving prison time for her role in her mother's 2014 "suitcase" murder was arrested on Wednesday on conspiracy charges when her plane arrived in Chicago, U.

An American woman deported from Indonesia after serving prison time for her role in her mother's 2014 "suitcase" murder was arrested on Wednesday on conspiracy charges when her plane arrived in Chicago, U.S. authorities said. Heather Mack, 26, conspired with her boyfriend to kill her mother, Sheila Von Wiese-Mack, stuff her body in a suitcase and load it into the trunk of a taxi during a vacation on the Indonesian island of Bali, the US Justice Department said. Mack was scheduled to appear in US District Court in Chicago, her home city, on Wednesday, it added in a statement. Indonesian authorities arrested Mack and her boyfriend, Tommy Schaefer, 28, after the August 2014 killing. Schaefer was sentenced in 2015 to 18 years for premeditated murder, while Mack, then 19, received a 10-year sentence for being an accessory to murder. A 2017 US grand jury indictment that was unsealed on Wednesday alleged that Mack and Schaefer came up with their plan to kill Von Wiese-Mack before they left the United States for Bali, and that Schaefer asked his cousin, Ryan Bibbs, about ways of killing her. Mack asked Bibbs if he knew anyone who would kill her mother for money, and he pleaded guilty in December 2016 to one count of conspiracy to commit foreign murder of a U.S. national, the Justice Department said. Under the department's contention that her plan was conceived in the United States, Mack faces two U.S. counts of murder conspiracy and one of obstruction, and a maximum statutory penalty of life imprisonment if convicted of the conspiracy charges, the department said. Mack was deported following her release from prison on Oct. 29 as her permit had expired, an Indonesian immigration official said. Schaefer remains in jail. Mack's lawyer, Yulius Benyamin Seran, said she was accompanied on the plane to Chicago by her daughter, to whom she had given birth before her sentencing.

US woman who aided Bali 'suitcase' murder arrested in Chicago

An American woman jailed in 2015 with her boyfriend for&nbsp;murdering her mother and stuffing the remains in a&nbsp;suitcase&nbsp;on the Indonesian island of Bali was released from prison on Friday after serving a chunk of her 10-year sentence.

Swarmed by reporters, Heather Mack left Bali's Kerobokan prison early on Friday. She did not say anything. Her lawyer, Yulius Benyamin Seran, who was not seen with Mack, declined to comment when contacted by Reuters.

Arrested in 2014 in a case that captured global attention due to its grisly nature, Tommy Schaefer was sentenced to 18 years for premeditated&nbsp;murder, while Mack received a 10-year sentence for being an accessory to&nbsp;murder.

Kerobokan prison chief for women inmates Lili said on Friday that Mack was given a 34-month remission. She said Mack was religious and participated in fashion and dance activities in prison.

Lawyer Yulius told AFP in August that Mack would be deported back to the U.S. upon her release.

Mack and Schaefer's case was investigated by Indonesian authorities for four months, along with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation.

In 2015, Schaefer, then 21, said in court he had killed Sheila von Wiese-Mack in self-defence in the St. Regis Hotel in Bali after she attacked him in anger because she objected to the couple's relationship.

Mack was 19 at the time of sentencing in 2015.

Von Wiese-Mack's body was found at the hotel with bruises on her arms and broken fingers. Evidence submitted to court included CCTV footage showing Schaefer and Heather Mack speaking to a taxi driver after dropping the bloodied&nbsp;suitcase.

Mack and her mother had a troubled relationship and von Wiese-Mack had frequently reported that her daughter punched and bit her, according to police reports cited by Chicago media.

An American woman jailed in 2015 with her boyfriend for murdering her mother and stuffing the remains in a suitcase on the Indonesian island of Bali was released from prison on Friday after serving a chunk of her 10-year sentence.

An American woman jailed in 2015 with her boyfriend for murdering her mother and stuffing the remains in a suitcase on the Indonesian island of Bali was released from prison on Friday after serving a chunk of her 10-year sentence. Swarmed by reporters, Heather Mack left Bali's Kerobokan prison early on Friday. She did not say anything. Her lawyer, Yulius Benyamin Seran, who was not seen with Mack, declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Arrested in 2014 in a case that captured global attention due to its grisly nature, Tommy Schaefer was sentenced to 18 years for premeditated murder, while Mack received a 10-year sentence for being an accessory to murder. Kerobokan prison chief for women inmates Lili said on Friday that Mack was given a 34-month remission. She said Mack was religious and participated in fashion and dance activities in prison. Lawyer Yulius told AFP in August that Mack would be deported back to the U.S. upon her release. Mack and Schaefer's case was investigated by Indonesian authorities for four months, along with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. In 2015, Schaefer, then 21, said in court he had killed Sheila von Wiese-Mack in self-defence in the St. Regis Hotel in Bali after she attacked him in anger because she objected to the couple's relationship. Mack was 19 at the time of sentencing in 2015. Von Wiese-Mack's body was found at the hotel with bruises on her arms and broken fingers. Evidence submitted to court included CCTV footage showing Schaefer and Heather Mack speaking to a taxi driver after dropping the bloodied suitcase. Mack and her mother had a troubled relationship and von Wiese-Mack had frequently reported that her daughter punched and bit her, according to police reports cited by Chicago media.

US woman who assisted Bali 'suitcase' murder released from jail

Three people were killed Saturday when an earthquake struck the Indonesian tourist island Bali, the disaster agency said.

The 4.8 magnitude quake struck at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometres (six miles) northeast of the town of Banjar Wanasari. Shallow quakes tend to do more damage than deep tremors.

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Two people died when the quake triggered a landslide that buried their house in Bangli regency while another person was killed in the port town of Karangasem, officials said.

The death toll was not expected to rise, they added.

"The quake was felt strongly for five seconds," said disaster agency spokesman Abdul Muhari.

"People were panicking and ran from their houses when the quake hit."

The tremor's epicentre was far from the main tourist hub in Bali, which is slowly reopening to international visitors after a pandemic shutdown.

Indonesia experiences frequent quakes due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity where tectonic plates collide that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.&nbsp;

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In January, more than 100 people were killed and thousands left homeless by a 6.2-magnitude quake that struck Sulawesi island, reducing buildings to a tangled mass of twisted metal and chunks of concrete in the seaside city of Mamuju.

A 7.5-magnitude quake and a subsequent tsunami in Palu three years ago left more than 4,300 people dead or missing.

Three people were killed Saturday when an earthquake struck the Indonesian tourist island Bali, the disaster agency said. The 4.8 magnitude quake struck at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometres (six miles) northeast of the town of Banjar Wanasari.

Three people were killed Saturday when an earthquake struck the Indonesian tourist island Bali, the disaster agency said. The 4.8 magnitude quake struck at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometres (six miles) northeast of the town of Banjar Wanasari. Shallow quakes tend to do more damage than deep tremors. Also Read | 6.1-magnitude earthquake shakes Tokyo area; no tsunami danger Two people died when the quake triggered a landslide that buried their house in Bangli regency while another person was killed in the port town of Karangasem, officials said. The death toll was not expected to rise, they added. "The quake was felt strongly for five seconds," said disaster agency spokesman Abdul Muhari. "People were panicking and ran from their houses when the quake hit." The tremor's epicentre was far from the main tourist hub in Bali, which is slowly reopening to international visitors after a pandemic shutdown. Indonesia experiences frequent quakes due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity where tectonic plates collide that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Also Read | Earthquake in southern Pakistan kills 24, hundreds injured In January, more than 100 people were killed and thousands left homeless by a 6.2-magnitude quake that struck Sulawesi island, reducing buildings to a tangled mass of twisted metal and chunks of concrete in the seaside city of Mamuju. A 7.5-magnitude quake and a subsequent tsunami in Palu three years ago left more than 4,300 people dead or missing.

Bali earthquake kills three, injures seven

Indonesia's top holiday destination Bali has reopened to foreign tourists after 18 months of pandemic hiatus. However the island is lacking one crucial ingredient: international flights.

Indonesia's top holiday destination Bali reopens to foreign tourists

Bali Elephant Camp (BEC) left more than a dozen elephants to starve, and staff without pay as COVID-19 affected the sales of tickets. BEC is a safari-style park, a half-hour drive north of Ubud, the Indonesian island’s cultural capital.&nbsp;

In 2005, BEC joined a wildlife conservation programme run by the Ministry of Forestry which delegates privately-owned zoos and safari parks in Indonesia with the care of critically endangered Sumatran elephants.&nbsp;

As per a 2007 study by the World Wildlife Fund, there were as few as 2,400 Sumatran elephants left in the wild.&nbsp;

Now, the number is believed to have halved as a result of poaching for ivory, human-elephant conflict, and deforestation.&nbsp;

The birth of three baby elephants over the past 15 years suggests BEC was exceeding its animal welfare requirements. "Our friends in conservation say we have some of the healthiest, happiest elephants they’ve ever seen!" read the official website.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-kenya-set-to-launch-wildlife-census-394781">Also read |&nbsp;In a first, Kenya set to launch wildlife census</a>

Femke Den Haas, a veterinarian from the Netherlands who has been working to protect wildlife in Indonesia for 20 years, while speaking to Al Jazeera said that a person cannot imagine a skinny elephant until you see one.

"They are big animals and you’re not meant to see their bones. But that’s what they were – just skin and bones," he was quoted by Al Jazeera.

Haas visited the camp as a partner of Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam Bali (BKSDA). This is the government body that supervises the safari parks and zoos that have adopted Sumatran elephants.

Three out of BEC’s 14 elephants were adopted by an unidentified zoo on the neighbouring island of Java. The remaining 11 were relocated to Tasta Wildlife Park, which is a new zoo that opened in June in Tabanan Regency.

When Al Jazeera visited Tasta Wildlife Park in September, all 11 animals had been successfully rehabilitated and regained weight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earths-wild-animal-population-plummets-60-per-cent-in-44-years-wwf-174289">Also read |&nbsp;In 44 years, humans have wiped out 60% of the world's animal population: WWF</a>

Agus Budi Santosa, director of BKSDA said that many industries in Bali have collapsed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Santosa was quoted by Al Jazeera saying, “But the impact on small companies like Bali Elephant Camp has been especially severe. (When tourism stopped)&nbsp;they were no longer able to cover operational costs, especially the cost of feeding elephants. The government had to assist them by paying for food and electricity.”

When confronted, BEC representatives were not available to answer Al Jazeera’s questions about the elephants. Also, their telephone numbers were disconnected.

Bali Elephant Camp (BEC) left more than a dozen elephants to starve, and staff without pay as COVID-19 affected the sales of tickets. BEC is a safari-style park, a half-hour drive north of Ubud, the Indonesian island’s cultural capital.

Bali Elephant Camp (BEC) left more than a dozen elephants to starve, and staff without pay as COVID-19 affected the sales of tickets. BEC is a safari-style park, a half-hour drive north of Ubud, the Indonesian island’s cultural capital. In 2005, BEC joined a wildlife conservation programme run by the Ministry of Forestry which delegates privately-owned zoos and safari parks in Indonesia with the care of critically endangered Sumatran elephants. As per a 2007 study by the World Wildlife Fund, there were as few as 2,400 Sumatran elephants left in the wild. Now, the number is believed to have halved as a result of poaching for ivory, human-elephant conflict, and deforestation. The birth of three baby elephants over the past 15 years suggests BEC was exceeding its animal welfare requirements. "Our friends in conservation say we have some of the healthiest, happiest elephants they’ve ever seen!" read the official website. Also read | In a first, Kenya set to launch wildlife census Femke Den Haas, a veterinarian from the Netherlands who has been working to protect wildlife in Indonesia for 20 years, while speaking to Al Jazeera said that a person cannot imagine a skinny elephant until you see one. "They are big animals and you’re not meant to see their bones. But that’s what they were – just skin and bones," he was quoted by Al Jazeera. Haas visited the camp as a partner of Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam Bali (BKSDA). This is the government body that supervises the safari parks and zoos that have adopted Sumatran elephants. Three out of BEC’s 14 elephants were adopted by an unidentified zoo on the neighbouring island of Java. The remaining 11 were relocated to Tasta Wildlife Park, which is a new zoo that opened in June in Tabanan Regency. When Al Jazeera visited Tasta Wildlife Park in September, all 11 animals had been successfully rehabilitated and regained weight. Also read | In 44 years, humans have wiped out 60% of the world's animal population: WWF Agus Budi Santosa, director of BKSDA said that many industries in Bali have collapsed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Santosa was quoted by Al Jazeera saying, “But the impact on small companies like Bali Elephant Camp has been especially severe. (When tourism stopped) they were no longer able to cover operational costs, especially the cost of feeding elephants. The government had to assist them by paying for food and electricity.” When confronted, BEC representatives were not available to answer Al Jazeera’s questions about the elephants. Also, their telephone numbers were disconnected.

Elephants in Bali left to starve as an impact of COVID-19

On being&nbsp;deprived of preferred food&nbsp;brought in by tourists now kept away by the COVID-19,&nbsp;hungry monkeys have started raiding villagers' homes in search for something tasty to eat&nbsp;on the resort island of Bali. The&nbsp;preferred food for the monkeys include bananas, peanuts and other goodies.

The gray long-tailed macaques nowadays have been venturing out from a sanctuary about 500 metres away to hang out on the&nbsp;roofs and await the opportune time to swoop down and snatch food, said&nbsp;villagers in Sangeh.

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Residents have been taking fruits and other food&nbsp;to the Sangeh Monkey Forest to try to avert&nbsp;an all-out monkey assault on the village in the future. The action comes as an attempt to placate the primates.&nbsp;

"We are afraid that the hungry monkeys will turn wild and vicious," Saskara Gustu Alit, a&nbsp;villager,&nbsp;said.

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Around 600 macaques, who&nbsp;are considered sacred,&nbsp;live in the forest sanctuary. They swing from the tall nutmeg trees and leap near the famous Pura Bukit Sari temple.

Usually, the Sangeh Monkey Forest used to have around 6,000 visitors a month, but due to the pandemic and curbs on international travel, the number has dropped to about 500. This has taken a toll on these monkeys.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On being deprived of preferred food brought in by tourists now kept away by the COVID-19, hungry monkeys have started raiding villagers' homes in search for something tasty to eat on the resort island of Bali.

On being deprived of preferred food brought in by tourists now kept away by the COVID-19, hungry monkeys have started raiding villagers' homes in search for something tasty to eat on the resort island of Bali. The preferred food for the monkeys include bananas, peanuts and other goodies. The gray long-tailed macaques nowadays have been venturing out from a sanctuary about 500 metres away to hang out on the roofs and await the opportune time to swoop down and snatch food, said villagers in Sangeh. Watch | Gravitas: Can long COVID be linked to dementia? × Residents have been taking fruits and other food to the Sangeh Monkey Forest to try to avert an all-out monkey assault on the village in the future. The action comes as an attempt to placate the primates. "We are afraid that the hungry monkeys will turn wild and vicious," Saskara Gustu Alit, a villager, said. Also Read | Queen Elizabeth II's death to follow social media blackouts, retweets' ban: Report Around 600 macaques, who are considered sacred, live in the forest sanctuary. They swing from the tall nutmeg trees and leap near the famous Pura Bukit Sari temple. Usually, the Sangeh Monkey Forest used to have around 6,000 visitors a month, but due to the pandemic and curbs on international travel, the number has dropped to about 500. This has taken a toll on these monkeys. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, hungry Bali monkeys raid homes after being deprived of food from tourists

As Indonesia is battling a Covid crisis and locals are struggling to find oxygen and hospital beds, Bali decided to impose strict <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> regulations on tourists.

Three tourists in Bali were deported from the country after they were found flouting Covid rules in the open while vacationing in the tourist-friendly place.

These visitors were from the US, Russia, and Ireland. When they were found without face masks in the public spaces, the three visitors were out on a flight back to their home country.

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"They broke minimum virus rules requiring face masks during the emergency restriction period," said Jamaruli Manihuruk, head of&nbsp;Bali's legal and justice office, which oversees immigration enforcement.

Not just these three, another woman from Russia was deported back to her home country for refusing to self-quarantine following a positive Covid test. She was allowed to stay in Bali till she recovered from the virus and was immediately put on a flight back to Russia as soon as she was declared virus-free.

These restrictions are now an important part of the country’s road to being virus-free. Indonesia has been struggling with the wide spread of the Delta variant, which has caused a record increase in coronavirus cases.

The government, last week, rolled out a set of fresh guidelines for people, to ensure the country is able to break the chain of Covid infections.

On Monday, Indonesia reported a record 40,427 new infections and 891 deaths in the last 24 hours.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Indonesia is battling a Covid crisis and locals are struggling to find oxygen and hospital beds, Bali decided to impose strict coronavirus regulations on tourists.

As Indonesia is battling a Covid crisis and locals are struggling to find oxygen and hospital beds, Bali decided to impose strict coronavirus regulations on tourists. Three tourists in Bali were deported from the country after they were found flouting Covid rules in the open while vacationing in the tourist-friendly place. These visitors were from the US, Russia, and Ireland. When they were found without face masks in the public spaces, the three visitors were out on a flight back to their home country. WATCH | "They broke minimum virus rules requiring face masks during the emergency restriction period," said Jamaruli Manihuruk, head of Bali's legal and justice office, which oversees immigration enforcement. Not just these three, another woman from Russia was deported back to her home country for refusing to self-quarantine following a positive Covid test. She was allowed to stay in Bali till she recovered from the virus and was immediately put on a flight back to Russia as soon as she was declared virus-free. These restrictions are now an important part of the country’s road to being virus-free. Indonesia has been struggling with the wide spread of the Delta variant, which has caused a record increase in coronavirus cases. The government, last week, rolled out a set of fresh guidelines for people, to ensure the country is able to break the chain of Covid infections. On Monday, Indonesia reported a record 40,427 new infections and 891 deaths in the last 24 hours. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia: Bali deports four tourists for flouting Covid regulations

Rescuers were looking for 11 passengers who went missing in strong waves overnight when a ferry sank near the Indonesian resort island of Bali on Wednesday.

Seven bodies have been found, and 39 people have been rescued, many of them were unconscious after drifting for hours in turbulent waters.&nbsp;

According to Bali Search and Rescue Agency chief Gede Darmada, the KMP Yunicee sank approximately half an hour after departing East Java's Ketapang port late Tuesday. 
 
It was on its way to the Gilimanuk port in Bali, a 50-kilometre&nbsp;(30-mile) journey.&nbsp;

It carried 41 passengers, 13 crew members and 3 canteen waiters, the National Search and Rescue Agency said Wednesday, revising earlier numbers.

The agency said 39 people were rescued and at least seven bodies were recovered.

Two tug boats and two inflatable boats have been searching for the missing people since Tuesday night, battling waves up to 4 meters (13 feet) high in the overnight darkness.

Ferry tragedies are common in Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, where ferries are often used as transport and safety regulations can lapse.

In 2018, an overcrowded ferry with about 200 people on board sank in a deep volcanic crater lake in North Sumatra province, killing 167 people.

In one of the country’s worst recorded disasters, an overcrowded passenger ship sank in February 1999 with 332 people aboard. There were only 20 survivors.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rescuers were looking for 11 passengers who went missing in strong waves overnight when a ferry sank near the Indonesian resort island of Bali on Wednesday. Seven bodies have been found, and 39 people have been rescued, many of them were unconscious after drifting for hours in turbulent waters.

Rescuers were looking for 11 passengers who went missing in strong waves overnight when a ferry sank near the Indonesian resort island of Bali on Wednesday. Seven bodies have been found, and 39 people have been rescued, many of them were unconscious after drifting for hours in turbulent waters. According to Bali Search and Rescue Agency chief Gede Darmada, the KMP Yunicee sank approximately half an hour after departing East Java's Ketapang port late Tuesday. It was on its way to the Gilimanuk port in Bali, a 50-kilometre (30-mile) journey. It carried 41 passengers, 13 crew members and 3 canteen waiters, the National Search and Rescue Agency said Wednesday, revising earlier numbers. The agency said 39 people were rescued and at least seven bodies were recovered. Two tug boats and two inflatable boats have been searching for the missing people since Tuesday night, battling waves up to 4 meters (13 feet) high in the overnight darkness. Ferry tragedies are common in Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, where ferries are often used as transport and safety regulations can lapse. In 2018, an overcrowded ferry with about 200 people on board sank in a deep volcanic crater lake in North Sumatra province, killing 167 people. In one of the country’s worst recorded disasters, an overcrowded passenger ship sank in February 1999 with 332 people aboard. There were only 20 survivors. (With inputs from agencies)

7 dead and 11 missing as ferry with 57 people on board sank in Bali waters

A passenger ferry&nbsp;with several people on board sank off Bali in Indonesia, reports said.

Rescue and evacuation is underway, Xinhua news agency reported. The ship was reportedly headed to Gilimanuk seaport in Bali when it sank.

Reports said at least six people have been killed.&nbsp;&nbsp;The KMP Yunice&nbsp;had at least 53&nbsp;passengers and 15 crew members when it sank, reports said.

At least 44 people have reportedly been rescued. The cause of the accident is still unknown.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A passenger ferry with several people on board sank off Bali in Indonesia, reports said. Rescue and evacuation is underway, Xinhua news agency reported. The ship was reportedly headed to Gilimanuk seaport in Bali when it sank.

A passenger ferry with several people on board sank off Bali in Indonesia, reports said. Rescue and evacuation is underway, Xinhua news agency reported. The ship was reportedly headed to Gilimanuk seaport in Bali when it sank. Reports said at least six people have been killed. The KMP Yunice had at least 53 passengers and 15 crew members when it sank, reports said. At least 44 people have reportedly been rescued. The cause of the accident is still unknown. (With inputs from Agencies)

Passenger ferry sinks off Indonesia's Bali island; six dead, several missing

A Canadian man who offered “orgasmic” yoga classes in the Indonesian territory of Bali has been deported by authorities. According to Indonesian authorities, Christopher Kyle Martin was disrespecting local values and traditions.

The man was promoting a “Tantric Full Body Orgasm” class online and was charging $24 (20 euros) for the same, news agency AFP reported.

The advertisement for the class went viral on social media, and was not received with kindness from conservatives. Bali’s governor referred to the class as potentially damaging to Bali.

"This activity potentially damages the reputation of Indonesia and Bali as a tourist destination, and is irrespectful [sic] of Bali's customs," I Wayan Koster, Bali’s governor said on Sunday during a press briefing.

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At this briefing, Martin was seen seated alongside immigration officers. The governor told the man to respect customs of the land if he intends to return. "If you want to come back here, you have to respect Balinese custom," the governor told him.

It was later confirmed by the Bali Immigration office that Martin had been deported for disrespecting Balinese traditions and culture. He had entered Indonesia in April on a tourist visa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/masks-face-covers-mandatory-in-yoga-institutes-and-gyms-health-ministry-317865" hreflang="en">Masks, face covers 'mandatory' in yoga institutes and gyms: Health ministry</a>

Martin, in his defence claims that the envisioned yoga class did not involve any sexual activity and would have focused on breathing techniques. Regardless, the class has been cancelled now.

Bali is a Hindu majority island and has expelled many foreigners who disrespect sites. In addition, the island has recently expelled multiple foreigners who did not follow COVID-19 guidelines.

In 2020, a Syrian yogic was expelled from Bali for undertaking a gathering which violated COVID-19 norms. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A Canadian man who offered “orgasmic” yoga classes in the Indonesian territory of Bali has been deported by authorities. According to Indonesian authorities, Christopher Kyle Martin was disrespecting local values and traditions.

A Canadian man who offered “orgasmic” yoga classes in the Indonesian territory of Bali has been deported by authorities. According to Indonesian authorities, Christopher Kyle Martin was disrespecting local values and traditions. The man was promoting a “Tantric Full Body Orgasm” class online and was charging $24 (20 euros) for the same, news agency AFP reported. The advertisement for the class went viral on social media, and was not received with kindness from conservatives. Bali’s governor referred to the class as potentially damaging to Bali. "This activity potentially damages the reputation of Indonesia and Bali as a tourist destination, and is irrespectful [sic] of Bali's customs," I Wayan Koster, Bali’s governor said on Sunday during a press briefing. Also read: Yoga will lead to guided imagery, Hinduism: Christian groups claim in Alabama At this briefing, Martin was seen seated alongside immigration officers. The governor told the man to respect customs of the land if he intends to return. "If you want to come back here, you have to respect Balinese custom," the governor told him. It was later confirmed by the Bali Immigration office that Martin had been deported for disrespecting Balinese traditions and culture. He had entered Indonesia in April on a tourist visa. Also read: Masks, face covers 'mandatory' in yoga institutes and gyms: Health ministry Martin, in his defence claims that the envisioned yoga class did not involve any sexual activity and would have focused on breathing techniques. Regardless, the class has been cancelled now. Bali is a Hindu majority island and has expelled many foreigners who disrespect sites. In addition, the island has recently expelled multiple foreigners who did not follow COVID-19 guidelines. In 2020, a Syrian yogic was expelled from Bali for undertaking a gathering which violated COVID-19 norms. (With inputs from agencies)

Bali deports Canadian man for offering 'orgasmic' yoga classes

A US-based YouTuber and a Russian influencer were ordered off Indonesia's resort island of Bali on Friday after recording themselves defying mandatory mask-wearing with some imaginative makeup.

Clips of the video created by Josh Paler Lin and Leia Se and posted two weeks ago show the two duping supermarket guards with a painted surgical mask after they were refused entry because Se was unmasked.

"Did you notice like no one's actually looking at you" Lin exclaimed. "I can't believe it worked,"&nbsp;he said in the video that appears to have been taken down from his social media accounts but has since been reposted elsewhere.

Lin is a Taiwanese passport holder whose YouTube channel specializes in prank videos and is followed by 3.4 million fans. Se has over 25,000 Instagram followers.

Although first-time violators of Bali's mask-wearing rule face fines of 1 million rupiahs (USD 70) for foreigners and deportation after a second offence, the police wanted them removed from the island immediately.

"It's only proper to sanction them more severely, not just with a fine but also deportation,"&nbsp;said Bali's civil service police unit head Dewa Nyoman Rai Dharmadi. "They are not only violating, but deliberately provoking in public to defy health guidelines."

The pair had shown remorse and apologised through Lin's Instagram video.

"I made this video to entertain people because I'm a content creator and it's my job to entertain people,"&nbsp;Lin said, "However, I did not realise that what I did could actually bring a lot of negative comments,"&nbsp;he said, advising people to always wear masks and invite everyone to help Bali regain its tourism.

Jamaruli Manihuruk, who heads the Bali regional office for the Justice and Human Rights Ministry, said that Lin and Se to be deported as soon as possible after they are tested for COVID-19.

"Foreigners who don't respect the laws and regulations in Indonesia are facing deportation sanctions,"&nbsp;Manihuruk said. He said Lin and Se will be placed in a detention cell at the immigration office while waiting for their flight.

In January, authorities in Bali deported Sergei Kosenko, a Russian social media celebrity, after he posted a video of himself driving a motorcycle with a female passenger on the back off a pier and into the sea. The stunt was condemned by many Indonesians as reckless and potentially hazardous to the environment.

A US-based YouTuber and a Russian influencer were ordered off Indonesia's resort island of Bali on Friday after recording themselves defying mandatory mask-wearing with some imaginative makeup.

A US-based YouTuber and a Russian influencer were ordered off Indonesia's resort island of Bali on Friday after recording themselves defying mandatory mask-wearing with some imaginative makeup. Clips of the video created by Josh Paler Lin and Leia Se and posted two weeks ago show the two duping supermarket guards with a painted surgical mask after they were refused entry because Se was unmasked. "Did you notice like no one's actually looking at you" Lin exclaimed. "I can't believe it worked," he said in the video that appears to have been taken down from his social media accounts but has since been reposted elsewhere. Lin is a Taiwanese passport holder whose YouTube channel specializes in prank videos and is followed by 3.4 million fans. Se has over 25,000 Instagram followers. Although first-time violators of Bali's mask-wearing rule face fines of 1 million rupiahs (USD 70) for foreigners and deportation after a second offence, the police wanted them removed from the island immediately. "It's only proper to sanction them more severely, not just with a fine but also deportation," said Bali's civil service police unit head Dewa Nyoman Rai Dharmadi. "They are not only violating, but deliberately provoking in public to defy health guidelines." The pair had shown remorse and apologised through Lin's Instagram video. "I made this video to entertain people because I'm a content creator and it's my job to entertain people," Lin said, "However, I did not realise that what I did could actually bring a lot of negative comments," he said, advising people to always wear masks and invite everyone to help Bali regain its tourism. Jamaruli Manihuruk, who heads the Bali regional office for the Justice and Human Rights Ministry, said that Lin and Se to be deported as soon as possible after they are tested for COVID-19. "Foreigners who don't respect the laws and regulations in Indonesia are facing deportation sanctions," Manihuruk said. He said Lin and Se will be placed in a detention cell at the immigration office while waiting for their flight. In January, authorities in Bali deported Sergei Kosenko, a Russian social media celebrity, after he posted a video of himself driving a motorcycle with a female passenger on the back off a pier and into the sea. The stunt was condemned by many Indonesians as reckless and potentially hazardous to the environment.

Two influencers ordered off Bali after fake mask video prank

An Indonesian navy submarine that disappeared off the island of Bali this week with crew members on board is believed to have sunk, the country’s military said after recovering debris from the vessel.

Debris of missing Indonesian submarine found, Navy says it sank with dozens onboard

The oxygen supply for the Indonesia's missing submarine is believed to have run out with no sign of the vessel. The Indonesian Navy's KRI Nanggala 402 submarine went missing on Wednesday, after it failed to re-emerge from its last reported dive in waters near Bali.

Oxygen believed to have run out in Indonesia's missing submarine

Dwarfed by a 21-storey-tall statue of the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythical eagle Garuda, a tour guide on the Indonesian resort island of Bali said he was staring at a bleak Lunar New Year season as the coronavirus wreaks havoc on tourism.

Bali tour guide hopes for coronavirus defeat in Lunar New Year

We have all heard tales about monkeys stealing food items and other expensive things from visitors in the famous Bali temple in Indonesia. Now, scientists have found out that the monkeys might be stealing these items while being aware of the value of these expensive belongings.

As per a paper published in the Royal Society science journal, the adult wild long-tailed macaque monkeys at the&nbsp;Uluwatu Temple in Bali, Indonesia are intelligent enought o realise which item is expensive enough to be raided as a ransom.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeys-in-a-finnish-zoo-preferred-noise-of-traffic-over-nature-ongoing-study-finds-342200">Monkeys in a Finnish zoo preferred noise of traffic over nature, ongoing study finds</a>

Scientists found out that the moneklys let go of expensive items such as electronic gadgets only after receiving food that they feel would be of its&nbsp;corresponding value.

"The token exchange paradigm shows that monkeys and great apes are able to use objects as symbolic tools to request specific food rewards," the study reads.

It was observed the interactions occurs in two phases, "after stealing inedible and more or less valuable objects (e.g. pairs of glasses, hats, empty bags) from temple visitors, the macaques appear to use them as tokens, by returning them to humans in exchange for a certain number/type of food rewards proffered by the temple staff."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-in-india-monkey-steals-covid-19-samples-from-lab-301953">Only in India: Monkey steals COVID-19 samples from lab</a>

The observation has been made after conducting a research for&nbsp;273 days between&nbsp;2015 to 2016, and a few days in 2019 too. During this time, the scientists filmed the monkeys in the area near the temple. These monkeys usually stared at a visitor, then silently approached them and stole the expensive object. They, then, waited at a side for the owner to approach them with a counteroffer of equal or higher value.

"Token-robbing and token/reward-bartering are cognitively challenging tasks for the Uluwatu macaques that revealed unprecedented economic decision-making processes," the study reads.

"This spontaneous, population-specific, prevalent, cross-generational, learned and socially influenced practice may be the first example of a culturally maintained token economy in free-ranging animals."

We have all heard tales about monkeys stealing food items and other expensive things from visitors in the famous Bali temple in Indonesia. Now, scientists have found out that the monkeys might be stealing these items while being aware of the value of these expensive belongings.

We have all heard tales about monkeys stealing food items and other expensive things from visitors in the famous Bali temple in Indonesia. Now, scientists have found out that the monkeys might be stealing these items while being aware of the value of these expensive belongings. As per a paper published in the Royal Society science journal, the adult wild long-tailed macaque monkeys at the Uluwatu Temple in Bali, Indonesia are intelligent enought o realise which item is expensive enough to be raided as a ransom. Also read| Monkeys in a Finnish zoo preferred noise of traffic over nature, ongoing study finds Scientists found out that the moneklys let go of expensive items such as electronic gadgets only after receiving food that they feel would be of its corresponding value. "The token exchange paradigm shows that monkeys and great apes are able to use objects as symbolic tools to request specific food rewards," the study reads. It was observed the interactions occurs in two phases, "after stealing inedible and more or less valuable objects (e.g. pairs of glasses, hats, empty bags) from temple visitors, the macaques appear to use them as tokens, by returning them to humans in exchange for a certain number/type of food rewards proffered by the temple staff." Also read| Only in India: Monkey steals COVID-19 samples from lab The observation has been made after conducting a research for 273 days between 2015 to 2016, and a few days in 2019 too. During this time, the scientists filmed the monkeys in the area near the temple. These monkeys usually stared at a visitor, then silently approached them and stole the expensive object. They, then, waited at a side for the owner to approach them with a counteroffer of equal or higher value. "Token-robbing and token/reward-bartering are cognitively challenging tasks for the Uluwatu macaques that revealed unprecedented economic decision-making processes," the study reads. "This spontaneous, population-specific, prevalent, cross-generational, learned and socially influenced practice may be the first example of a culturally maintained token economy in free-ranging animals."

Monkeys at Bali temple know which items to steal for ransom and food: Study

The island of Bali is famous the world over its turquoise beaches every year tourists around the world visit for their dreamy holiday. But Island is also facing non-biodegradable plastic waste brought in by strong waves ashore. How People of Bali deal with this chronic problem. Here's the report.

Massive Clean up begins on Bali's beach as army of local volunteers begin cleaning

Abu Bakar Bashir was the alleged mastermind of the 2002 Bali Bombings that killed 202 people. He was freed today amid concerns over his ongoing influence on extremists.

Gravitas:Bali Bombings: Radical Cleric linked to attack freed

In 2002, a terrorist attack had shaken the world. It was a bombing in Bali that had killed more than 200 people. Many of them --- were foreign tourists. Today, Abu Bakar Bashir, &nbsp;the mastermind behind the attack has been released.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitasbali-bombings-radical-cleric-linked-to-attack-freed-355487/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bashir was a radical cleric who led a local Al-Qaeda affiliate is now a free man. Many fear --- his release could make matters worse.&nbsp;

But, for the government of Indonesia Abu Bakar Bashir has suffered enough which is why-- he has now been released.

Bashir was escorted away by an elite anti-terrorism squad. Local officials say special measures were necessary. Due to Bashir's frail health and the pandemic. An explanation -- that's bound to anger the victims of the bombing. Abu Bakar Bashir is the former head of Jemaah Islamiyah. A group linked to the Al Qaeda. Accused of carrying out the Bali bombings in 2002.&nbsp;

An attack --- that had killed 22 British and 88 Australian citizens. Bashir has denied all links to the incident. While Indonesia --- struggled to prove his involvement. He was imprisoned in 2011 on completely different charges. A 15-year jail sentence for funding a training camp for terrorists.

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo wanted to release Bashir two years back. Just before the 2019 election, in a move that many saw as an attempt to appease the ultraconservatives.

But the decision was reversed after pushback from the Australian government. Now, Australia says Bashir's release was consistent with Indonesia's justice system.

Bashir has been released into the care of his family in central Java. Authorities say --- he will now enter a de-radicalisation program. While Bashir doesn't exercise the same kind influence over Jemaah Islamiyah as he used to. The victims are concerned --- about his ability to radicalise more people, as an ideologue.

In 2002, a terrorist attack had shaken the world. It was a bombing in Bali that had killed more than 200 people. Many of them --- were foreign tourists. Today, Abu Bakar Bashir, the mastermind behind the attack has been released.

In 2002, a terrorist attack had shaken the world. It was a bombing in Bali that had killed more than 200 people. Many of them --- were foreign tourists. Today, Abu Bakar Bashir, the mastermind behind the attack has been released. Bashir was a radical cleric who led a local Al-Qaeda affiliate is now a free man. Many fear --- his release could make matters worse. But, for the government of Indonesia Abu Bakar Bashir has suffered enough which is why-- he has now been released. Bashir was escorted away by an elite anti-terrorism squad. Local officials say special measures were necessary. Due to Bashir's frail health and the pandemic. An explanation -- that's bound to anger the victims of the bombing. Abu Bakar Bashir is the former head of Jemaah Islamiyah. A group linked to the Al Qaeda. Accused of carrying out the Bali bombings in 2002. An attack --- that had killed 22 British and 88 Australian citizens. Bashir has denied all links to the incident. While Indonesia --- struggled to prove his involvement. He was imprisoned in 2011 on completely different charges. A 15-year jail sentence for funding a training camp for terrorists. Indonesia's President Joko Widodo wanted to release Bashir two years back. Just before the 2019 election, in a move that many saw as an attempt to appease the ultraconservatives. But the decision was reversed after pushback from the Australian government. Now, Australia says Bashir's release was consistent with Indonesia's justice system. Bashir has been released into the care of his family in central Java. Authorities say --- he will now enter a de-radicalisation program. While Bashir doesn't exercise the same kind influence over Jemaah Islamiyah as he used to. The victims are concerned --- about his ability to radicalise more people, as an ideologue.

Explained: Why mastermind of 2002 Bali bombing is released

Two teenage sisters from Bali are leading an example. They are the part of a young generation global activists calling for urgent actions to protect the planet. Watch the report to know more.

WION Fineprint: Bali's teen sisters who dream of a plastic free world

A&nbsp;29-year-old was rescued from a well in Bali, Indonesia after six long days.&nbsp;Jacob Roberts, a British citizen, fell into the well in&nbsp;Pecatu village.

The visitor was in the&nbsp;Pecatu village when he was chased by a dog. While trying to save himself from the dog, he fell into a&nbsp;four-metre-deep concrete pit.

Alarms were raised after a local farmer heard his cries of help. After that,&nbsp;Jacob was rescued by a local and research team.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-witness-spike-in-coronavirus-records-686-cases-and-55-deaths-in-one-day-302990">Also read:&nbsp;Indonesia witness spike in coronavirus, records 686 cases and 55 deaths in one day</a>

“Jacob’s calls for help were heard by a local who was going to feed his cows,” local search and rescue chief Gede Darmada told reporters.

“He looked thin and injured,” South Kuta police chief Yusak Agustinus Sooai said after Jason’s rescue.

He has been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment.

More details are awaited.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 29-year-old was rescued from a well in Bali, Indonesia after six long days. Jacob Roberts, a British citizen, fell into the well in Pecatu village. The visitor was in the Pecatu village when he was chased by a dog.

A 29-year-old was rescued from a well in Bali, Indonesia after six long days. Jacob Roberts, a British citizen, fell into the well in Pecatu village. The visitor was in the Pecatu village when he was chased by a dog. While trying to save himself from the dog, he fell into a four-metre-deep concrete pit. Alarms were raised after a local farmer heard his cries of help. After that, Jacob was rescued by a local and research team. Also read: Indonesia witness spike in coronavirus, records 686 cases and 55 deaths in one day “Jacob’s calls for help were heard by a local who was going to feed his cows,” local search and rescue chief Gede Darmada told reporters. “He looked thin and injured,” South Kuta police chief Yusak Agustinus Sooai said after Jason’s rescue. He has been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. More details are awaited. (With inputs from agencies)

British man rescued from a Bali well after six days

Indonesia is facing a backlash over an online campaign backing palm oil at a time when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesians-choked-by-forest-fire-haze-pray-for-rain-249464">forest fires</a>, often linked to slash-and-burn land clearance, have spread choking smoke across the region, raising a growing concern about damage to health.

The Southeast Asian country is the world's biggest producer of the edible oil and is often vilified abroad for the destruction of forests to make way for plantations, and for the fires that are often started to clear the land.

While Indonesia's neighbours complain about the impact of the smoke drifting in, the criticism at home, where the smoke is usually much more severe, has been more muted.

But that might be changing if the reaction to a government campaign launched to support the palm oil industry is anything to go by.

"We plant palm to fulfil Indonesia's needs, including to develop biodiesel and to lift Indonesia's hopes," the cheery Good Palm campaign said on its Twitter account - @SawitBaikID.

But the campaign, launched by the government and the state Palm Crop Estate Fund agency, could not have come at a worse time.

Fires, at their most serious since 2015 because of an El Nino weather pattern causing an extended dry spell, have been sending clouds of acrid smoke up over Sumatra, parts of Borneo islands and beyond for more than a month.

The government, once again trying to deflect the anger of its neighbours, has sent in more than 9,000 workers to try to beat down and douse the flames.

The smoke, or haze as it is known, has forced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-airports-closed-as-indonesia-fires-spark-fears-for-singapore-f1-250388">schools and airports to shut</a>, while tens of thousands of people have suffered from respiratory problems.

In one widely reported case, a four-month-old girl from a haze-hit village on Sumatra island died this week.

Doctors said she bore signs of lung infection, though they have yet to give the official cause of death.

"The government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations," wrote one Twitter user - @agnarendra.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SawitBaik?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SawitBaik</a> is definitely a misplaced campaign amidst the forest fires in Indonesia and the government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations <a href="https://t.co/RUieFY0Z6M">https://t.co/RUieFY0Z6M</a>
— Ariq (@agnarendra) <a href="https://twitter.com/agnarendra/status/1173809736090652672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Put out the fire

Sheany, a journalist based in Bali, who uses only one name, said it was "bizarre" that the authorities were launching their campaign to make palm oil look good at this time.

"So many Indonesians living in those areas are choking," she said.

In another sign of changing attitudes towards palm oil, some supermarkets in the capital, Jakarta, have begun displaying products with "palm oil-free" labels, to the anger of government officials.

Dono Boestami, head of the Palm Crop Estate Fund, defended the campaign to support palm oil, noting the "huge contribution" it makes to the economy.

Authorities say the fire has scorched 328,000 hectares (810,000 acres) of land since January but it is not clear how much of that has been to make way for palm plantations.

Greenpeace Indonesia said 80% of cleared forests had been turned into becoming palm and pulpwood plantations.

Referring to the Good Palm campaign, Greenpeace called for tighter controls of the palm oil industry.

Environmentalists say poor farmers are often blamed for the fires when the plantation companies egg them on, knowing they can expand later into the land that has been cleared.

Police say many of the fires are started in the forest and scrub next to plantations, which are often untouched.

The chairman of Indonesia's palm oil association, Joko Supriyono, said the companies should not be blamed for fires they do not start.

"There are reports from our members that fires on their concessions were because of widespread fires outside of the concessions," he told foreign correspondents on Tuesday.

President Joko Widodo has not responded directly to the backlash. This week, he attended Islamic prayers for rain in an area shrouded in heavy haze.

"We have done everything we can, but the correct way is to prevent this from ever happening. Whenever there's a fire, it should be put out," Widodo said in a statement.

Indonesia is facing a backlash over an online campaign backing palm oil at a time when forest fires, often linked to slash-and-burn land clearance, have spread choking smoke across the region, raising a growing concern about damage to health.

Indonesia is facing a backlash over an online campaign backing palm oil at a time when forest fires, often linked to slash-and-burn land clearance, have spread choking smoke across the region, raising a growing concern about damage to health. The Southeast Asian country is the world's biggest producer of the edible oil and is often vilified abroad for the destruction of forests to make way for plantations, and for the fires that are often started to clear the land. While Indonesia's neighbours complain about the impact of the smoke drifting in, the criticism at home, where the smoke is usually much more severe, has been more muted. But that might be changing if the reaction to a government campaign launched to support the palm oil industry is anything to go by. "We plant palm to fulfil Indonesia's needs, including to develop biodiesel and to lift Indonesia's hopes," the cheery Good Palm campaign said on its Twitter account - @SawitBaikID. But the campaign, launched by the government and the state Palm Crop Estate Fund agency, could not have come at a worse time. Fires, at their most serious since 2015 because of an El Nino weather pattern causing an extended dry spell, have been sending clouds of acrid smoke up over Sumatra, parts of Borneo islands and beyond for more than a month. The government, once again trying to deflect the anger of its neighbours, has sent in more than 9,000 workers to try to beat down and douse the flames. The smoke, or haze as it is known, has forced schools and airports to shut, while tens of thousands of people have suffered from respiratory problems. In one widely reported case, a four-month-old girl from a haze-hit village on Sumatra island died this week. Doctors said she bore signs of lung infection, though they have yet to give the official cause of death. "The government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations," wrote one Twitter user - @agnarendra. #SawitBaik is definitely a misplaced campaign amidst the forest fires in Indonesia and the government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations https://t.co/RUieFY0Z6M — Ariq (@agnarendra) September 17, 2019 × Put out the fire Sheany, a journalist based in Bali, who uses only one name, said it was "bizarre" that the authorities were launching their campaign to make palm oil look good at this time. "So many Indonesians living in those areas are choking," she said. In another sign of changing attitudes towards palm oil, some supermarkets in the capital, Jakarta, have begun displaying products with "palm oil-free" labels, to the anger of government officials. Dono Boestami, head of the Palm Crop Estate Fund, defended the campaign to support palm oil, noting the "huge contribution" it makes to the economy. Authorities say the fire has scorched 328,000 hectares (810,000 acres) of land since January but it is not clear how much of that has been to make way for palm plantations. Greenpeace Indonesia said 80% of cleared forests had been turned into becoming palm and pulpwood plantations. Referring to the Good Palm campaign, Greenpeace called for tighter controls of the palm oil industry. Environmentalists say poor farmers are often blamed for the fires when the plantation companies egg them on, knowing they can expand later into the land that has been cleared. Police say many of the fires are started in the forest and scrub next to plantations, which are often untouched. The chairman of Indonesia's palm oil association, Joko Supriyono, said the companies should not be blamed for fires they do not start. "There are reports from our members that fires on their concessions were because of widespread fires outside of the concessions," he told foreign correspondents on Tuesday. President Joko Widodo has not responded directly to the backlash. This week, he attended Islamic prayers for rain in an area shrouded in heavy haze. "We have done everything we can, but the correct way is to prevent this from ever happening. Whenever there's a fire, it should be put out," Widodo said in a statement.

Indonesia's 'Good Palm' drive enflames anger as smoke clouds skies

Italian police on Monday seized a large arsenal of weapons, including an air-to-air missile, in raids on neo-Nazi sympathisers. Watch this video to know more.

Italy seizes air-to-air missile, guns in raids on neo-Nazis

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