Trapt: The Metal World’s Equivalent of a Punching Bag

In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, People around the world must find some alternatives while isolating themselves at home. Whether working from home, playing online games, clean their houses, cook up a storm in the kitchen, or, if you are happened to be Chris Taylor Brown of the Nu Metal band Trapt, ranting on just about everything either on Twitter or Facebook, trying to offend someone to no avail. 

            You must be wondering why I write this relatively unknown, obscure band like Trapt in the first place. They might not be as big as other Nu Metal bands like Korn or Slipknot, but they are famous in their own right. For those who are wondering who the hell or what the hell is this band, they were formed in 1995 and hailing from Los Gatos, California. They released seven studio albums so far, and known for extensive line-up changes, mainly for drummer and guitarist. As of today, Trapt’s current formation consists of vocalist Chris Taylor Brown, guitarist Brendan Hengle, bassist Pete Charell, and drummer Mike Smith. If they are well known among the metal scene, then how come we only knew this band a little? Sadly, this band is known to be a “one-hit wonder”. This term is applied to artists or bands who have that one song that break out to the mainstream (and the ensuing explosive success). The song subsequently defied said artists, and other works (albums or other singles) are often overshadowed by that particular track. On more than one occasion, the track (and the artist) are quickly forgotten. On Trapt’s case, that particular song is Headstrong from their 2002 self-titled major label debut album. The song in question topped the Billboard Mainstream Rock charts and Modern Rock Charts, as well as charting at number 16 on Hot 100 between 2002-2003. The album itself could only reached 42^nd position on Billboard 200 on that same year span. It’s more than likely that you can compare them to bands like Nickelback, but on this case alone, we have to admit that Chad Kroeger and co. are the more well-known of the two. Just for the record, that same song once voted on Ultimate Guitar's Users Poll for Worst Guitar Riffs of all time, placing 4th out of 15.

            What happens if a band needs to keep themselves relevant? Usually (in the case of Metallica) they evolve their sound to stay competitive or offering new concepts and fresh images and ideas (Slipknot’s move). But in Trapt’s case, starting an online feud with other musicians on the metal realm or other celebrities on the entertainment spectrum, mainly done by Christ Taylor Brown, their vocalist who happens to run the band’s official accounts (This is the mother of terrible ideas). This feud started when the Coronavirus spreads to the US. And apparently, Brown himself is a full-fledged supporter of the sitting President Donald Trump (who is infamously known to be the most incompetent and racist sack of human being currently sitting on the presidential throne) as noted on his 48-hour rant on Twitter. He supported Trump’s “Chinese virus” rhetoric on how to name the virus. He also blasted Bishop Talbert Swan and actor Chris Evans on Trump’s take on mitigating the disease, calling the former “The authority of victim mentality”. On the recent feuds, Thrash Metal band Power Trip vocalist Riley Gale called them out to book a show at the same time on the same city with different venues, with the losing side has to donate all of their proceeds to the charity of the winner’s choosing. And how Brown respond to the challenge? In the most cowardly fashion, they suggested that they are rejecting the challenge, and instead blaming the ordeal to the COVID-19 pandemic when being confronted by a Power Trip fan. After being roasted by Gale and Power Trip, Brown had to deal with many other metal artists, like Tilian Pearson of the band Dance Gavin Dance, Dylan Bowman and Eric Vanlerberghe of I Prevail, The Acacia Strain’s Vincent Bennett, and most recently, Trivium bassist Paolo Gregoletto, calling him “this bass player from Metallica cover band” (Metallica is arguably one of the most influential bands contributing to Trivium’s overall sound). While boasting their Spotify streams as well as their total listeners on Pandora, we can’t help but notice that other bands mentioned above have significantly high numbers of stream counts and ticket sales. 

            Of course, this is done for attention (albeit in the wrong way). But even before the feuds, the band once came under fire for something called “click theft”. It’s essentially interpreted as someone stealing content from someone else and re-hosted it on their pages in order to be passable as their own. In this case, they ripped off Metal YouTuber Rob Scallon’s “00000” video and repost it on their Facebook page. And when they are being called out by Canadian Producer and Sound Engineer Glenn Fricker on his YouTube channel (I love that guy’s content by the way), Brown responded in a typical victimizing fashion, stating that by posting the video, Fricker violated Trapt’s copyright. I have to call bullshit on this one for two reasons. Number one, all Fricker did is only show the band logo and a sample of the music as part of an editorial, while focusing more about how Trapt ripped off Scallon off his YouTube views. Therefore, it’s classified under fair use. Number two, to call it as violating Trapt’s copyright claims is a bullshit on its own, considering that they stole a YouTuber’s content and refurbish it to be passable as their own content. If someone has to press charges for plagiarism, it should be Scallon himself. 

            I could have written many examples of Trapt being the “headstrong” of the metal world, but they are just too unknown to me, and their status as a “one-hit wonder” is not helping the case either. Their latest album was released in 2016, which to be honest, is far too long ago. Will they gain their fame and fortune again? With this kind of attitude, I highly doubt it. If they ever release another song or album, it will still be overshadowed by the success of Headstrong. I’ll just end this by saying that an idiot would always run his mouth with zero substance over what they say. Rationalized and educated person on the other hand, would rather stay silent and only chime in when it’s necessary. Stay safe, stay healthy, put some distance between you and other person, and keep washing your hands. 

COVID-19 Part 3: The time When Socializing Is a Terrible Idea

(Warning: Strong languages and rants ahead)

            Okay. I have to say something about the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) now being a massive pandemic infecting the whole wide world. This virus is now a total pain in the ass. Why would I say so, you might ask. It’s because of this little bastard, events being either postponed or cancelled, people are scared to even walk just 3 meters from their house doors, and in a particularly terrifying way, economics are disrupted. In the midst of lockdowns or isolation (whether self-imposed or in hospital beds), those who are working in a formal sector (either state-owned or private companies) are mostly working from their own homes. Students are also receiving the same treatment, mostly through online classes or special assignments. Those who don’t impose the “Work from Home” policies (WFH) are still required to check themselves in to their offices, wearing some kind of protection like surgical masks and gloves while doing so. But some of them are either stupid enough or losing a few brain cells to actually make unnecessary trips or just to please themselves. 

            Let me recap on how the world end up in this fiasco. The virus was discovered sometime between November and December of last year in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. It began to spread to outside of mainland China, with neighboring South Korea and Italy in Continental Europe recorded the most cases. How the virus spreads in both countries? It’s easy to figure out that in the event of mass gathering, one cough or sneeze would cause a domino effect. In South Korea, it was during a church service, whereas in Italy, it was caused by two Chinese tourists in the city of Rome. During the next two months, those two countries became the most impacted regions of the world because of someone who, either aware or not infecting their surroundings. As a result, Italy, along with several European countries like France, The Netherlands and Germany are now under complete lockdown in order to slow down the spread. Indonesia, meanwhile, as of today has 686 cases, with 55 deaths and 30 recovered cases. President Joko Widodo has instructed companies either state-owned or private companies to start working from home, same with the students. He also just recently announced the cancellation of the National Examinations on all school levels (Elementary, Middle School and High School). 

            But when it comes to obedience for this particular policy, Indonesian are unfortunately known to be stubborn. Just a few days after President Jokowi’s address to start the WFH policy, instead of actually working, those same people instead rushing to several key tourism sites, like when all Jakarta citizens flooded Bogor and its surrounding areas in a desperate search for any tourist attractions. In the early days of this policies, in some province, like in Manado, North Sulawesi, the authorities patrolled around shopping malls to reprimand students who are hanging out in those malls instead of studying at home. Worryingly, some events which can draw massive crowds like wedding parties are continued to be held despite all of the stakeholders suggesting otherwise. This policy, which acts like a partial lockdown in itself is also affecting religious activities like Friday prayers for Muslims, or Sunday services for Christians (Catholic and Protestant). But annoyingly, there are some “fanatics”, to say the least that instead encourage their fellow neighborhood to fill the mosques and churches, when in reality, forming a crowd increases the chance of infection. And this is the epitome of bad ideas. In Malaysia, around 20.000 people gathered in Jamek Mosque in Sri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur for a mass service from February 27 to March 1. By March 17, of the 673 confirmed cases at the time, it is believed that around two thirds of the number might have some correlation to the mass rally. And what about Italy, then? The main reason why is ironically, Italians’ habits of family gathering. Indonesians are also known to leave no spaces in public areas. The police have to stage ambushes in several cafes and restaurants, hoping that the customers (mostly youths) obeying the government’s recommendation. Even with the Social Distance Policies being enforced, there are some individuals who think that they are invincible. “I’m in good health. There is no way that I have the virus” yeah right, and when you are tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, you reacted like it’s the end of the world. Younger people like me (I’m 24 years old, by the way) might not display common symptoms, but can still carry the virus and has a slim chance of accidental coughing or sneezing. So, for your own sake, keep your smelly asses inside your house! Don’t fuck this up for those who are risking their lives and wellbeing (doctors and all medical staffs) to treat the sick. 

            But alas, some of these “supermen” are quite deluded, thinking that the virus won’t touch them, especially a certain Islamic cleric who once claimed that the coronavirus is “God’s army”. Some jackasses also claimed that they are not afraid of the disease, they only feared God. Let me tell you something. Being religious has nothing to do with your immunity. This virus could attack anyone, from celebrities to politicians to normal citizens. So, don’t spew the “fear God, not the virus” bullshit on my face. Some of you might see this partial lockdown as a chance to plan your vacation. Having fun for probably a week or two and ended up infected by the virus. What a turn of events! I guess the authorities need a harsher approach to this, like chasing away those guys with a machete every time they step away from their homes for absolutely no reason (Shopping for supplies, going to medical facilities and fetching food orders are not one of them). Hell, let’s armed those guys with flame throwers. Each time someone step out for no reason, scare them back to their houses with that thing. Luckily, the Indonesian government acted quick, by promising incarceration up to one year for forming a gathering or organizing events that would draw a large number of crowds. And to end this, I’m going to stress this again. Stay inside. Pull your head from your ass and assist those doctors, nurses and other medical staffs by locking your smelly ass inside the house. You’re not doing any favor by going outside for no apparent reason. You could either catch the virus or being incarcerated, especially if you form a crowd. This virus is no joke, but by doing those things, you are not only being a major pain in the ass, but also made you a sitting duck for infections, and making a fool out of yourself in the process. 

COVID-19 Part 2: Should we Put the Country on Lockdown?

Well, since the SARS-CoV-2, which in turn spread as COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) entered Indonesia, there are now roughly 117 cases spread nationwide, mostly still contained in Jakarta and its surrounding areas, as well as some in the Bali Island. And like I said in the previous article, even celebrities and politicians are not safe from this virus. Among the 117 who are infected, one of them is Indonesian Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi, who was previously diagnosed with typhus. As of today, President Joko Widodo offer a speech to encourage people to work and study at home. Schools are closed, public activities are limited, and social distancing is being encouraged as a prevention of the virus. Recently, there are opinions circulating today that in order to lock the virus from spreading further, the Jokowi administration must institute a lockdown policy like the ones currently placed in Italy, which has the most cases outside mainland China. 

            While in some countries this move could be the best decision ever made, but to implement it in an Island Nation like Indonesia is a tall order in itself. In order for a lockdown to be effective, it means that all activities, both socially, economically, and politically has to be shut down. Moreover, there must be enough food and other supplies that could last during a specific time frame, which means stockpiling all the essentials needed in a day-to-day basis. All trips, either by sea, land or air is suspended until further notice, and all public services are closed. But most importantly, the people are expected to comply with the policy, without causing any uproars or mass panics. So basically, the entire country is on a state of full quarantine just to contain a virus. So, should we put this 18.000+ island country on a lockdown? It’s not that simple.

            When we look at the current situation in Italy, the lockdown policy is currently being implemented because of the compliance of all residents, and their understanding on how the virus spreads. Indonesians are (ironically) known to have a non-compliance mindset. Just a few days ago when the Special Region of Jakarta officials decided to temporarily close all government-run tourist destinations, every single Jakarta citizens instantly flooding Bogor and surrounding areas, in a desperate search for tourist attractions. Not to mention that Indonesia is not a country that situated in an area inside larger continent, but a cluster of islands that has their own population density and characteristics. Another thing that almost certain would happen if a lockdown is in place, is mass panic buying. When the first two cases were announced, there were mass panic everywhere, as people are scrambling to buy protective masks and hand sanitizers, as well as other supplies like instant and ready to eat meals. If you are a middle to upper class citizens, this wouldn’t be a big problem, but to others with a relatively low income and those who has day-to-day payrolls, like online taxi drivers, this is the hardest thing they have to endure. The policy would result in a loss of income. Not to mention those petty cheapskates who stockpiles those same essential items and resells them with really expensive prices. For example, a box of surgical masks usually costs around IDR 35.000, but what they did is resell them with the price range around IDR 350.000 to IDR 500.000. This alone can escalate to riots and looting, as people are desperate to fulfill their daily needs. Let’s not talk about locking down a country. To put Jakarta alone in a lockdown would result in a hefty financial crisis, not just in the affected city, but also nationwide. As with the reasons stated above, inflation is a huge nightmare, all because of the fact that Jakarta contributes around 20% of total nationwide inflation rate. If this is happening right now, the total inflation rate could skyrocket as high as 4 to 6%. 

            So, if the lockdown policy is not an option, what should we do then? There is something called social distancing, which essentially means to distance an individual’s activities in a larger crowded area. This can take many forms, like avoiding unnecessary trips for leisure or tourism, limiting the use of public transports, avoiding human-to-human contact, or avoid going to crowded places like shopping malls, parks, or even public events. In Singapore, such policies are currently put in place, particularly for citizens of old age (as we all know, most fatalities of COVID-19 are from people with old age or complications of other medical conditions). Still related with the first reason above, limiting public events (even if it’s a religious event) is necessary to prevent the spread of this disease. We never know if some of us went to a convention or some sort, and among the visitors, there was one particular person who wasn’t aware that he/she contracted the virus, and dismissing the symptoms like that of a common flu, and ended up infecting all the population inside that event venue. Another means to stop the virus from running rampant is by self-isolation. This is done if someone experiences a flu-like symptoms like fever, coughing, sneezing, headache, or even minor respiratory problem. The duration of this is usually 14 days, or until further tests are conducted. During the time frame, the person who is isolating is expected to stay separate from their families, preferably in a separate room. He/she is also required to wear mask; and has to be approximately 1 meter away from the rest of the occupants. Appliances like plates, forks, spoons, glasses and other utensils are to be used separately during this time. When coughing or sneezing, use the inside of the forearm to cover the mouth, instead of the palm of the hand. Disinfecting everything and every surface in contact with the patient is also mandatory. 

            When it comes to preventive measures of COVID-19, the Indonesian government is doing the best, without compromising the welfare and security of the people. While ideally, the lockdown policy would be effective, but to put it on a country like Indonesia could cause a major mass hysteria. Not only that, but the country would suffer economically due to the restriction of income. So, for you who wants President Jokowi to lock the country down, consider this: Could we survive the economic implications of this policy? And Can you guarantee that all essential supplies are available and affordable? Do you have enough savings to support your family in the times like this? If your answer is yes, then start locking your house first, and wait for others to do the same. But if you answer no, then shut your gaping pieholes and let the President and his cabinet work to mitigate this disease. 

COVID-19: Now A Global Pandemic

Source: Google Images

Well, for the first time ever since I write the first article about this new virus, I am scared (genuinely) of the prospect of contracting this disease, even doing preventive measures sometimes is not good enough. No matter how we prepare ourselves to tackle this problem head-on, there will always be a tiny hole in which the virus might use to penetrate into our society.

            Since the discover of the Novel-Coronavirus (2019-nCoV, now renamed SARS-COV-2 by WHO) in Wuhan, China PR earlier this year, many speculated that the worldwide spread would be inevitable, and unfortunately, it has come to reality. There are now as many as 119 territories and areas, including the Diamond Princess Cruise ship where there at least one confirmed case of the Coronavirus disease, or COVID-19. At the moment, Italy is recorded to have the most confirmed cases not only in Europe, but also in the world, outside of mainland China. The first outbreak started when two Chinese tourists were tested positive of the virus in the capital city of Rome. In Continental Asia, the Islamic Republic of Iran has the most cases, followed by South Korea and Japan. Few of Iranian government authorities, like Vice President for Women and Family Affairs Masoumeh Ebtekhar and deputy Health Minister Iraj Harirchi are confirmed to have contracted the disease. Indonesia, once (jokingly) claimed to be immune to this new pandemic, now has 34 confirmed cases, all within the Jakarta and West Java area, with 3 patients successfully recovered, and one fatality due to complications with other medical conditions. And for continental America, the United States recorded the most cases with 1.725 patients, 30 recovered and 41 deaths. It’s now safe to say that the virus has effectively spread across the globe, with the exception of most of the Southern and Central regions of Africa (All the cases recorded in the continent are mostly from the northern parts, some of which has direct sea borders to infected countries in Europe and the Middle East, another case recorded in the West/Central part of the continent, this being the Ivory Coast). The total cases combined from all countries and territories are currently sitting at the staggering number of 134.521, with 68. 927 of them successfully recovered and 4.974 deaths. 

            Apparently, the way this virus affects each and every person is different, depending of the age and the strength of their immunity system. Someone could be the carrier of the coronavirus without showing any symptoms, and some of them also display the most basic symptoms of either dry coughing, fever or respiratory problems. Almost all public places have thermal scanner posts for early prevention of the virus, with customers showing unnatural body temperature are removed from the premises and placed into isolation until further testing is conducted. Usually the isolation could last for two weeks, as the incubation process of the virus usually lasts within that time range. One case even revealed the longest incubation period of the virus itself, recorded at 27 days. It usually spreads from droplets from someone sneezing or coughing. It might not last very long in the air, but the virus has shown to be viable if it sticks to everyday objects and various surfaces around our environments. To combat this, disinfection is carried out, with substances such as 62-71% of ethanol being applied to the surface for one full minute. The WHO has stated that the transmission from symptomless person or fecal transmission is “very low” and “low” respectively. The number of deaths due to COVID-19 is also has its own trend, with most of the fatalities are happening among the elderly within the age of 80+, as shown in three countries with the most cases, which are PR China, South Korea and Italy. 

            Consequently, all countries have enforced many restrictions on travels or public activities. During the first spread in the mainland China, all countries were quick to enforce travel bans for trips going from and to China, especially Wuhan, and all travelers and tourists coming back before the ban are placed under isolation. Countries repatriate their citizens and quickly placed in quarantine areas to prevent public spreading. With current situations, all public activities, including sporting events or music concerts are either postponed or cancelled. Events like the upcoming Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix are cancelled, as well as Formula E’s Rome ePrix. Other dates in Paris, Seoul and Jakarta are also postponed, pending the current situation on respective countries. the Major League Soccer (and practically almost all sporting leagues in the US, like NBA for Basketball and NHL for Ice Hockey) postponed their seasons, and the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games are in serious doubt due to the outbreak. Some events are held with the absence of spectators, like some UEFA Champions League and Europa League football (or soccer, as referred in the US) matches, the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race in Atlanta Motor Speedway in Atlanta, GA, and the follow-up race in Homestead-Miami Speedway in Homestead, FL. Some music festivals like Coachella are postponed, as well as the returning Hammersonic Metal Festival in Jakarta. Both festivals will be rescheduled on later dates. The current season of the English Premier League are also in jeopardy, now that it’s already towards the end of the season, with news of Arsenal’s Head Coach Mikel Arteta and Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi are both tested positive for COVID-19. Arteta’s news also affected Arsenal’s upcoming league fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion, slated to take place at the American Express Stadium in the city of Brighton. All members of both teams are currently on self-isolation in the wake of the announcement. Preventive measures have been enforced in other European leagues like Italy’s Serie A and Spain’s LaLiga by postponing the league until further notice, even the Italian Football Federation (Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio, FIGC in Italian) has a worst-case scenario of stopping the league if the situations worsen. As of today, 5 people, including the previous two names mentioned above are confirmed as the patient for COVID-19, with the other three being Hannover 96’s Timo Huebers, Juventus’ Daniele Rugani, and Sampdoria’s Manolo Gabbiadini. McLaren F1 team pulled out from the Australian Grand Prix weekend after one of the team members has confirmed to have contracting the virus, resulting to subsequent cancellation of the race. The MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix is also cancelled for the premier class as well, with only Moto2 and Moto3 class bikes started the race. Both races acted as season openers for respective series. On the entertainment side of the spectrum, veteran actor Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson has confirmed positive with the disease in Australia, and currently isolating themselves. Few Hollywood movies also postponed their release date due to the outbreak, like the latest installment of the Fast Saga, Fast & Furious 9 and the final James Bond Movie to feature actor Daniel Craig as the 007 titled No Time to Die. 

            The pandemic doesn’t take its toll on public activities either. In some countries, once a COVID-19 case is announced, panic and distress ensued, and resulting on shortage of essential items like surgical masks and hand sanitizers, which in turn, making the items rare and more expensive. In Indonesia, the Police arrested some irresponsible individuals for mask-hoarding, with the intention of reselling it with unnaturally expensive prices. This trend is also happening in countries with high numbers of COVID cases. 

            Now being a global pandemic, the spread of COVID-19 has prompted world leaders to enforce restrictions on their countries, Italy has now placed under lockdown, and travel bans entering and exiting the exiting the country has been enforced. The same measure is also applied to countries like South Korea, Iran, Japan and other countries affected. But not all leaders take this threat seriously. Despite various measures being done in the US, President Donald Trump’s speech from the Oval Office is viewed as blatant lies, especially the part where he banned all flights coming from and to continental Europe, with the exception of the UK (for some unexplainable reason. Probably because of Brexit). The lying point from this claim is while the travel ban is in place, all American citizens and permanent residents are allowed to travel back from Europe, possibly from countries affected from the pandemic. If one of those returning Americans contracted the virus, all hell would break loose. This prospect is not helped with the fact that many Americans who are suspected of the disease has never been tested before, despite Trump’s claim that the testing is rapidly expanding. He also decided to deal the pandemic in the most Trump-way possible: blaming the virus and labeled it as “foreign virus”. He mostly compares the disease to that of a common flu. While the symptoms are similar, the SARS-COV-2 is a lot more deadly, since one of the key symptoms is shortness of breath, implying respiratory problems to some extent, which can be a fatal factor if not treated properly. 

            As of today, while cases around the world are currently rising, the Chinese cases are slowly winding down, with number of recovering patients slowly climbing, as well as other countries recovering in a slow but steady pace. While some countries are expecting the numbers to rise, some of the patients are slowly battling the virus and recovering. Let’s hope that the COVID-19 pandemic would end sooner rather than later. The world as we know today is already messed up, and this disease is not helping the case either. 

Morality Police: Idiots or Attention Seekers?

(Warning: Strong languages, sexual references and rants ahead)

            Okay. Hear me out for a second. I believe human beings are born with different levels of intelligence and different ways of thinking. Therefore, everybody has their own opinions when it comes to specific issues or problems, that otherwise would require a full understanding in order to find a specific solution. We are also having different standards on some aspects, like hygiene and cleanliness, food preferences, or our way to conduct our daily activities. On the moral side of things, it depends on what ideology someone might have in their minds. If it’s someone living in a more predominately Muslim region, most of their moral standards are more likely based in Islamic customs, or if that same individual live in a more liberal setting, It would be like “as long as you are not walking around buck naked, it’s okay”. Same with someone’s sexual life, with both scenarios in play.  But some people just want to shove their standards to non-consenting society; or forcing everyone to follow certain things against their will. 

            Just yesterday we celebrated what would have been Australian wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin’s 57^th birthday. He passed away in 2006 after an accident involving a manta ray during a filming process. To celebrate the occasion, Google decided to post a doodle depicting Irwin holding a crocodile chewing the letter “L”. One organization in particular, PETA (acronym for People for Ethical Treatment of Animals) responded the doodle with tweets seemingly targeted to tarnish the Australian’s legacy and life. One of which even stated that he was killed while “harassing a ray”. They ended up getting roasted by the Internet. Hilariously, this same “animal rights” group is also known for blatant hypocrisy. While fighting for “animal’s rights”, they are also known for high euthanasia rates for animals, whether stray and wild animals, or “rescued” pets (PETA didn’t believe in pet ownership, stating it as “an abysmal situation”). One source even revealed that in total, from 1998 (second half only) to 2019, there are as many as 41.539 animals were killed from 49.737 received, that is 83,5% of total animals on PETA’s shelters. But what grinds me the most is they are also notorious to promote veganism to the point of actually unbearable to look. Few of their campaigns involving trying to turn the society into vegan diets, claiming that by eating meat, they support animal cruelty. Now listen here, you little shits! Yes, there are some type of birds, four-legged animals, fishes, or any types of animals that are not suitable for human diets for numbers of factors. Pork (or any pig-based ingredients for that matter) is strictly forbidden according to the Islamic Sharia diet, because of the fact that the pigs actually showered in their own fecal remains. Eagles are not suitable either, because of their sharp claws. Chickens, cows, certain types of fish (or any sea creatures) and goats or lambs are mostly raised in farms as kettles for eggs, milks, wool, and meat. And during the process, they are treated with utmost care and as humanly as possible. And it depends on someone’s personal taste to be a meat eater (I am one, and I’m fucking proud of it.) or a vegetarian. One more thing that makes me want to go on a manhunt for these PETA assholes is their dairy campaign, ignorantly linked the consumption of milk with autism, which is both a hilarity and a total bullshit on its own. From what I understand, autism (officially known as Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a mental/neurological condition that mainly affects someone on the social level. It means, it’s mainly a neurological matter, not something that can be easily triggered by outside factor (Same for those crazed anti-vax mobs, but that is for another story). I wonder what kind of weed they must be smoking when they made this campaign. Must be stronger than the ones Snoop Dogg used to smoke. 

            You think that’s the only case of morality police on patrol? Oh boy, I’m just getting started. There is one current uproar in Indonesia involving the Indonesian Commission for Child Protection (Komisi Perlindungan Anak Indonesia, KPAI in Indonesian) commissioner for health, narcotics and addictive substances Siti Hikmawatty. Her controversial statement claims that if women went to the same swimming pool as men, she would end up pregnant. If there is an award for the bullshit statement of the year, this would take the top prize. She even continued the otherwise head-scratching comment by stating that some men might get sexually excited and ejaculate on the pool, with some sperm that are said to be strong enough to actually impregnate a woman. She later apologized, claiming that the statement is not on behalf of the commission, but as a personal statement. But alas, the fire has started, and memes and roasts started to flood all social media channels. On a more serious note, the Indonesian Doctors Association executive Nazar stated as documented by The Jakarta Post that it is impossible for women to get pregnant in a swimming pool. I think what dr. Nazar said is consistent, unless you have the pool for yourself with your wife, and actually engaged in a full sexual contact (intercourse involving penile penetration into the vagina), there is no goddamn way in hell that a woman can get pregnant inside a swimming pool. For those of you who wonder who this woman is, this is the same woman who accused the renowned clove cigarette company Djarum for child exploitation over their badminton scholarship program, citing that the move actually promotes smoking among the youth (In opposite, the Djarum Badminton Club outlaws smoking inside their premises). Many of you might think that she is just some idiot with limited knowledge, but she actually has a master’s degree in early childhood education. So, either she did it for sensation, or blatant ignorance. There are many other cases like this that makes you laugh and embarrassed to be an Indonesian at the same time. One of which is the proposed Family Integration Bill, that is viewed as a possible intrusion of privacy and slight traces of misogynist views (the bill has a verse stated that the husband is the traditional breadwinner, and the wife as the more traditional “housewife”). Few “sketchy” bills including a move to outlaw sperm and ovum donors, a rehabilitation plans for LGBT community and outlawing whips and bondage (as well as rehabilitating those who are engaged with BDSM/Bondage, Domination, Sadism and Masochism). Let me stress one thing out. When it comes to sexual activities between a married couple (husband-wife), it should be their own business to handle. You perverts thought that this supposed “bill” would further enforce all families in Indonesia, but instead, it would only be viewed as a step back for women’s rights. The government should not dictate a happily married family on how they run their own household. And to make things worse, when it comes to proper sexual education, we are still stuck in the Neanderthal era (and by that, I mean whenever a sex-related topic is being brought up, it would be quickly dismissed as immoral and sinful). 

            Clearly, while everyone keeps their moral standards to themselves and not boasting too much about it, some deranged fuckers are more than happy to enforce their standards, shoving them to every non-consenting people’s throats, and complain and moaning if there are something that is not suit their approval. Whether animal treatment to someone’s sexual life and preferences, there is always one idiot that always nagging on little things. While some are highly educated and intelligent for their own right, they are willingly to drop some IQ points to that of a Neanderthal to post sketchy statements, questionable beliefs, confusing remarks, and rage-triggering opinions. Safe to say that morality police are doing nothing but being a total pain in the ass. 

The Jakarta Flooding: Who to Blame?

(Warning: Strong languages and Rants ahead)

            I know that I shouldn’t write this, but let’s face it. After several years, the phenomenon is back, and it’s even worse than ever. It has been a known fact that the Special Capital Region of Jakarta, which is known as the capital city of Indonesia and one of the busiest cities in the world, also known for its floods. But years prior to today, all flood cases are handled quickly and efficiently, without having to fear of another one every time the rain comes. During the first three months of a new year, the Jakarta flooding is almost certain will make the news on a daily basis. 

            I have to say, I’ve been to this situation where floods are everywhere in your surrounding areas (although my own neighborhood is located in fairy higher ground, which is a good thing on its own), and few of my friends have been struck with this type of natural disaster. Whether in Manado or Bogor (where I live now), I always cherish the fact that my home is free from the flood. I can vividly recall the 2014 Manado Great Flooding on January 15, 2014, which claimed 19 human lives and damaging over 1.000 houses, with estimated loss of around IDR 1,8 Trillion. And let me tell you, it was hailing nonstop from two days prior, and intensified with windstorms on the morning of the day. Communication broke down, road networks disrupted, flights being cancelled, and blackouts are the thing we have to endure during those treacherous days. The flood recorded the highest ever at over 4 meters high. That is twice more than the depth of an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Both the Indonesian Government and local authorities did their maximum to restore the city; and is now thriving with marine tourism and currently emerging as the new tourist destination. 

            The flooding in Jakarta is, quite frankly, not really a new issue, because the city is infamously known for it. But the way the current administration handling this matter is making my blood boil. The case can be traced back to December 31, 2019 during New Years Eve celebration. The next day, Jakarta is flooded in several key areas, including a taxi pool in Kramat Jati. Today, after an overnight rain, the city is once again flooded, with puddles reaching thigh level of an adult. Several key toll roads are also flooded, including the oldest toll road in service, the Jagorawi (Jakarta-Bogor-Ciawi) Toll Road. While some are worrying about evacuation, others took to social media to once again criticize the current Governor Anies Baswedan, who are deemed “incompetent” on running the government, especially on issues like this. Now bear in mind, this guy won the Jakarta Election by the means of racism, taking a complete advantage on the blasphemy case of Basuki Tjahja Purnama a.k.a. Ahok, the current governor at the time who happens to be of Chinese descent and of Christian faith. He was also backed by the FPI (yep, those dickheads. I heard that their leader is still on Saudi Arabia on a self-imposed exile, but I guess he is too scared to come back), that same hard-lined “Islamic” group who is responsible for the 212 Movement, referencing their protest on December 2, 2016. At the time, he was perceived as someone that has the highest amount of respect to the Islamic society and to true Indonesians/pribumi (or so they claimed), while Ahok was perceive as a Chinese dictator and a blasphemer. And the racism didn’t stop there. They are also willing to persecute fellow Muslims to an extent of abandoning one’s funeral who happened to support the incumbent governor, claiming by doing so, they justified the blasphemy. 

The way he run the capital is also a notorious one. He infamously slashed the flood mitigation funds in favor of the preparation of the FIA Formula E race slated to take place in the Monas Street Circuit in Central Jakarta on June 6, 2020. Despite being a fan of this series, and motorsport in general, this is a head-scratching move for me. Yes, Indonesia is slowly recognized on the international stage thanks to the 2018 Asian Games, but doing this while sacrificing the more important matter like environmental issues is straight up nuts. Earlier on the month of February, he instigated a revitalization project at the National Monument, WITHOUT consulting to the State Secretary. And the way he conducted the project? He cut all the trees situated on West Medan Merdeka Street. He is also not above making controversial statements either. He once stated in response of the New Year’s Day flood that water is supposed to flow and to be absorbed to the ground, not directing it to the sea because it will violate God’s will (now this is the most fucked up statement of the decade so far). The ones who supports him are even crazier, claiming that the flood is actually “God’s gift”. The Ciliwung River Normalization started during the Ahok Era is since discontinued under Baswedan, replacing it with the more weaker “Naturalization” Project. At the time, only 16 km (10 miles) of riverbed that are successfully dug and enforced with dams surrounding the riverside settlements.

            I have to say that although Baswedan deserves all the bashing due to his alleged incompetence and constant diversion on issues at hand, we have to consider our role as normal citizens. Blaming the flooding solely on someone’s incompetence is not really a wise decision, although it played the most part. We are also (partially) responsible for all these things, such as littering, logging, building settlements on riverbeds, and less attention on water irrigation. So, for those of you who wants to bully the governor, think about this: have you done enough to prevent the flooding on the small scale? And for Mr. Baswedan, quit joking around, pull your head from your ass, and actually, just for once, focus on the mitigation of the floods. Formula E can wait, it will still be held. Put all your efforts on all things necessary for either mitigation or future prevention of the floods. And for those of you who might ask if I want to vote for him on the next election? Nope. Not only because the fact that he is just another under-performed governor, but my ID is a North Sulawesi ID, therefore ruling me ineligible for the Jakarta Election, and not to mention that I currently live in West Java. And to close this, remember to always spread good vibes, even in a situation like this.

Valentine’s Day: A Day for Love with Bloody Past

The day of love and romance. Quite frankly, if you disregard this one day, every day can be a good time to show your love and affection to your loved ones. Everywhere around the world, February 14^th is known as the Valentine’s Day, where for this day alone, people celebrate the gift of love, either to their lifelong partners or closest family members. It is viewed as mainly a Christian holiday, but nevertheless, this particular day is celebrated around the world by all people of various backgrounds. This is also the only day where chocolates and flowers are being sold out, with the two are reviewed as the integral symbols of gifts of love. The name of this particular day is derived from Saint Valentine of Terni, an Italian priest who was martyred after refused to denounce his Christian faith.

            Despite the loving nature of the holiday itself, the history suggests that the origin of the Valentine’s Day is actually the exact polar opposite than our perspective over the years (it’s actually a lot bloodier than we think it is). According to several legends, The story revolved around a priest named Valentine of Terni, at the time in the 3^rd century AD, was the one who opposed Emperor Claudius II’ order to outlaw marriages for young men while citing that single men are made for better soldiers than the ones with family. Realizing the injustice nature of the decree, Saint Valentine performed Christian marriages in secret for young lovers. Other stories revealed that Valentine was an evangelist, spreading the words of Christianity. On one occasion, he was put to a test by a judge named Asterius to proof God’s existence by tasking him to restore his adopted daughter’s eyesight. He completed the task successfully, and thus converted the judge and his family to Christianity, and in turn, using his newfound faith, Arterius released all Christian inmates in his custody. He was taken to Rome to meet Emperor Claudius II, and after trying to convince the emperor to embrace Christianity (to which the emperor refused), He was executed by beheading on February 14, 269 outside the Flaminian Gate, for not denouncing his faith. Before his execution, he wrote a note to Asterius’s daughter signed “from your Valentine”, which is said to have “inspired today’s romantic missives”. 

            Although the namesake saint’s stories are anything but affectionate and caring, the Valentine’s day celebration is derived from a pagan festival in February, with main purpose to commemorate Saint Valentine’s death as a martyr. This is also done to “Christianize” a pagan festival called Lupercalia. The festival itself was an archaic rite connected to fertility. It was mainly consisted of sacrificial of goats (for fertility) and dogs (for purification) by the members of Luperci, an ancient order of Roman Priests. The rites then continued by stripping the goat’s hide to strips; and slapping them after being dipped into the sacrificial blood to women present in the festival, hoping for fertility. Later in the day, the women placed their names in a big urn, and would be draw each by city bachelors to be paired. These pairings often ended up married. It was later outlawed (deemed “Un-Christian”) by Pope Gelasius by declaring that the date of the festival, which is February 14 as the “Saint Valentine’s Day”. It was not until much later, that the day became definitively associated with love. 

            One more interesting legend tied to The Day of Love is the legend of Cupid. Known in the Greek mythology as The God of Love Eros, son of The Goddess of Love and Sex Aphrodite, He was depicted as a handsome man (or a naked and mischievous little boy in some depictions) armed with bow and arrow with a task of shooting golden arrows to unsuspecting lovers. It has been said that the ones who got struck with his arrow would be madly in love with one another. One Greek legend told the story on how he shot an arrow to the God of the Sun Apollo, who fell in love with a nymph named Daphne, but fired a leaden arrow to her, in hoping that she would be repulsed by him. Another allegory told us the tale of how Aphrodite’s jealousy on a mortal named Psyche, she tasked Eros to induce her to fall in love with a monster. In a surprise turn of events, he instead became so enamored by Psyche’s beauty, they actually married (with one condition. In under any circumstances, Psyche was not allowed to see his face). Eventually, Psyche’s curiosity cost her, by stealing a glance, earning the deity’s wrath and flee in anger. They were later reunited and granted the gift of immortality. 

            A typical Valentine’s Day gifts consist of greeting cards (known as Valentines) and various gifts, most commonly confectionary such as chocolates or candies and flowers, most commonly red roses. This practice developed as early as the 19^th century in early modern England, later spread through all English-speaking countries. In the later 20^th to early 21^st centuries, the practice spread to other countries, but with limited effects comparing to other holidays like Halloween or Christmas. In East Asian countries like China, Japan and South Korea, this norm instead being offered by women to men, rather than their western counterparts (Where men offer the gifts for women, either wife, girlfriend, or other female relatives), either as an obligatory gift or an expression of affection. There is also a favor-returning day called “White Day”, where the men are expected to return the favor started by their opposing gender, still with the two intentions mentioned above. It is celebrated exactly one month after the fateful day, on March 14. Hence the name, the men would offer either confectionaries made from white chocolate or other gifts bearing the color white. This is typically given to the same girl who gave him her Valentine gifts. 

            To be honest, after the red string of fate article, writing about the day of love can really make you appreciate all the love in the world, since Valentine’s Day is probably the most associated thing when it comes to feelings of mutual affection. And yet, some of them are doing it for the sake of obligation. And on this day, and hopefully the next and the rest of the year, love is in the air. And it started as a reminder of a priest’s sacrifice for the people. And to close this, share the love to your relatives and lifelong partners. You deserve to be loved and to love each other.