Fridus Steijlen, motorcycling in Ambon, has observed a vibrant culture where riders navigate with unwritten rules, offering a social and fun experience beyond transport, incorporating family, work, and technology (e.g., ojek apps). Despite varied riding styles and decorator support for Dutch soccer, following non-verbal cues ensures safety and enjoyment, transforming night rides into a colorful, musical ‘disco’ adventure.
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By Hannan van Rooij – In 2022, with a group of friends I was planning to participate in the Mongol Rally. This is a contest where people drive from Londen to Ulaanbaatar in the most…
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By Fridus Steijlen – In Ambon, Fridus Steijlen observed Taman Paskah, public religious displays commemorating Easter, with symbolic crosses and caves. These were contrasted with secular Christmas decorations, subtly blending Christian and local traditions. As Easter approaches, religious symbols replace Christmas ones, reflecting the community’s deep Christian faith and the social significance of these holidays.
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By Maaike Matelski – Ten years ago I published an article on my research with civil society actors from Myanmar, in which I described the sudden changes in ideological and physical positioning as the country…
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By Maaike Matelski – On 8 December 2022, Nickey Diamond visited the VU for two lectures. Nickey is an activist from Myanmar who recently started a PhD in Anthropology at the University of Konstanz, where…
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By Freek Colombijn – “Football is the most important thing of unimportant things”. The truth of this quote, which I often give in my classes, but which –if I am correct– originates from a pope,…
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By Jop Koopman On the 6th of December 2021, a massive flood happened in the area of Gunungsari in West Lombok. Floods are not rare in the rainy season in this region, but due to…
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by Rachma L Putri “I think, as long as I remember, I never felt happy about my life. There is always too much burden in my life” said Darminah with teary eyes when I asked…
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By Maaike Matelski – In this picture, anthropology students from Yangon University show the ‘three fingers salute’ for democracy. Students and university staff across Myanmar have been protesting against the recent military takeover. Since the…
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