By: Ciptanti Putri

The synergy of fundraising for WWF-Indonesia's nature conservation program and Mobiliari Group's annual ball in the "Indonesia Tatler-Panda Ball" Gala on Friday (29/11) last week gained the support and appreciation of a number of high-profile. In its first year, the event dedicated to the WWF Coral Triangle Program was themed "A Tribute to the Sea".

A little over 300 invited guests enjoyed the evening's well-organized and intimate program. They consisted of Indonesian government officials, ambassadors of friendly countries, leaders of social organizations, public figures, and other VVIP guests. They also looked solemn following every presentation about WWF-Indonesia's conservation programs, which were attractively packaged in the form of short films and inspirational messages from the duet Nadya Hutagalung and Dalton Tanonaka and the performers.

The event left a deep impression on Anisa Pohan, Martha Tilaar, and Mien Uno.

"This event opened our minds about the importance of preserving the coral for the continuity of the fish population in the sea and food security," said Anisa Pohan, model, advertising star, and daughter-in-law of Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. Anisa, who appeared in a glamorous golden gown that night, said that society events should not only be about networking, but also have added value to knowledge. "(The event) is a great initiative from Tatler Indonesia and also WWF-Indonesia to increase our (society members') awareness about nature conservation issues. Through this event, we got value added knowledge about coral, as well as coral rescue programs that we can support. We want to help, but we don't know how." Furthermore, he hopes that there will be awareness from the attendees of the gala dinner to follow the recommendations of an eco-friendly lifestyle for a better Earth for future generations.

A similar tone was expressed by Martha Tilaar. The tradition-based cosmetics entrepreneur came with her husband and daughter to the gala evening. "I am very happy that WWF is working together with Tatler Indonesia in this event. Especially to connect and build network as a bridge to promote its conservation programs," she said kindly. She feels that WWF-Indonesia needs to expand its network to spread its conservation messages. The event was also an opportunity for the audience to learn more about the potential of Indonesia's natural resources. "Tatler is a global media, associating with the international high-society. Perhaps there are nature conservation programs in Indonesia that can be channeled to a wider audience, why not?" he explained. Responding to the issue of saving the coral reef triangle zone that was raised in the gala, Martha said, "Tatler Magazine readers, who are mostly urban people, must understand that the impact of the lifestyle they lead also determines the fate of coral."

society members tonight, you have to make the most of it," replied the mother of entrepreneur Sandiaga Uno when asked for her comments on the event's excitement. According to her, this sweet collaboration will make people more aware of the existence of WWF-Indonesia as a non-profit organization for nature conservation in Indonesia. "People must support WWF programs," she concluded.