Women's club launches charity bazaar

The Jakarta Post

The Women's International Club (WIC) launched a two-day bazaar involving women from over 30 countries at the Jakarta Convention Center in Central Jakarta on Wednesday.

WIC president Purti M. Reksoprodjo said the annual bazaar, which has been held for 40 years, was primarily to raise money for charity projects.

"We have dozens of charity programs scheduled for the whole year and this is our biggest fund-raising event to finance those programs," she said.

Some 30 embassy stalls and more than 200 stalls operated by local businesses will be present at the bazaar, which is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Most stalls are selling unique types of food, clothing, accessories and household equipment, such as in Thailand's stall (see photo).

First Lady Ani Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who opened the bazaar, the vice president's wife Mufidah Jusuf Kalla and the wives of other high-ranking officials enjoyed shopping at the bazaar on its opening day.

The WIC has supported 14 public institutions including an orphanage, schools for disabled children, nursing homes for the elderly and a hospital with funds raised from such events. The organization also provides scholarships and donates food and other basic items to the needy during regular visits. (JP/LBT)