Mission to Empower Female Weavers Across Indonesia

Toraja Melo has established a variety of programs to work with women who participate. (Photo courtesy of Toraja Melo)

Jakarta. A 2007 trip to her husband's hometown, Toraja in South Sulawesi, saw entrepreneur and women's rights activist Dinny Jusuf become fascinated by traditional weavers living in the region.

Using back-strap loom to slowly weave colorful fabrics bearing sacred Torajanese motifs, these economically disadvantaged craftswomen relied on their creations as a main source of income, while having to navigate dual roles as a weaver and a housewife. It was a situation only worsened by fluctuating tourist numbers and an insecure market to sell their crafts.

West Papua Declares Itself 'First Conservation Province' in Indonesia, World

Jayapura, Papua. West Papua has declared itself as the world's "first conservation province" in a signed declaration on Monday, in an bid to formally dedicate its efforts to conservation purposes.

West Papua, a region famous for having a rich marine ecosystem and diverse flora and fauna, has declared itself as Indonesia's and the world's 'first conservation province.' (Photo courtesy of Burufly).

The signing of a declaration by West Papua governor Abraham Ataruri took place at the gubernatorial office in the provincial capital of Manokwari, and was attended by Home Affairs Minister Tjahjo Kumolo and West Papua district heads.

Govt Seeks to Develop Low-Income Rural Communities With New Village Index

The Indonesian government has devised the Developing Villages Index as part of its effort to lift underdeveloped rural communities out of poverty. (JG Photo/Safir Makki)

Jakarta. Indonesia's Ministry for Villages, Underdeveloped Regions and Transmigration has launched the Developing Villages Index, or IDM, in a wider effort to lift the country's underdeveloped rural communities out of poverty.

Police Officers Jailed for Bribery in E. Java Illegal Mining Case

Residents and students protest the murder of farmer and activist Salim in Central Java demanding that the police bring the perpetrators to justice. (Antara/Pradita Utama)

Jakarta. Police in East Java sentenced three of its officers to 21 days in prison after finding them guilty of accepting bribes to protect an illegal mining operation, which sparked nationwide attention after a farmer was murdered for protesting against its activities.

Yep, You May Be Addicted to Sugar. But I'll Tell You Why You Should Quit Sugar

You are sitting in your office and you are getting that all too familiar craving. You don’t smoke, you are not an alcoholic and you don’t take drugs. You may not even drink coffee. However, you do eat a lot of chocolate and cookies. Basically, anything sweet and delicious. Yep, that’s right, you may be addicted to sugar.

Many people realize they are addicted to sugar when throughout the day, they would often find themselves craving something sweet and comforting that would give them a little lift. This surge in energy would soon drop, however, and then they would crave something sweet once again – vicious cycle. Sound familiar?

5 Hacks For Foodie : To Make Fried Food Healthier

There isn’t any doubt that fried foods are one of the most popular kinds of food in America. Whether it’s fried chicken, or french fries, we have all one or more guilty fried pleasure.

Although frying foods can simply cause them to taste much better, it also has the potential to make the nutritional value decrease, if not prepared correctly. If you’re seeking to eat healthier, without having to sacrifice eating fried foods, make sure to follow these hacks.

Inspired Ways to Decorate With Empty Wine Bottles

It's great fun opening a new bottle of wine, but the good times don't have to end when you've polished off what's inside. There are tons of inspiring ways to reuse that glass bottle, from lighting solutions to outdoor accessories. Wine bottles are one of the amazing materials that can be used in countless ways if you're into upcycling, but we're partial to using them as decor. Brush up on your glass-cutting skills, and see 15 ways to use gorgeous glass bottles into your home! 

1. Très Chic Tiki Torches

Give your wine bottles a second life by making them into tiki torches! Julie Blanner has the step-by-step guide on how to make them.

This Tree Houses That Would Make Tarzan Jealous

Trust us — these aren't the tree houses of your childhood. Thanks to fully-stocked rooms, lofted interiors, and striking architectural details, these tree house rentals on Airbnb are jaw-dropping properties with plenty of character. Whether you're hoping to plan an exciting vacation or simply enjoy some travel eye candy, we're highlighting the most design-savvy tree retreats across the world. From California to Australia to Italy, here are eight stunning tree house rentals that are sure to inspire your inner child.

1. Atlanta, Georgia

Comprised of three separate rooms connected by string-lit rope bridges, this Atlanta escape is truly a fantasy come to life. The romantic, secluded tree house even boasts its own chandelier!