KENNY SANTANA HAS THE HIGHLIGHTS OF A PACKED YEAR-END CALENDAR ACROSS INDONESIA

17-18 October
Semarang Dog Show, Semarang

Brush up your cutest puppies for this lively occasion. Even if you don’t own one, dog lovers will enjoy these two days of competition to find Semarang’s top dog. www.semarangdogshow.com

&30-31 October
Soulnation Festival, Jakarta

Book this weekend in October for a celebration of sweet soul music. Confirmed artists so far include legends Arrested Development, plus Laura Izibor and Musiq Soulchild, playing to this festival dedicated to R&B, soul and hip-hop music. www.javasoulnationfestival.com

4-8 November
Commonwealth Bank Tournament of Champions 2009, Bali

In its first year under a new championship format, this tournament will draw more tennis fans than ever, as the year’s top 12 female players compete for US$600,000. www.2009.commbanktennis.com

4-12 December
Jakarta International Film Festival, Jakarta

For the first time, Indonesia’s biggest film festival will open with a local film. Sang Pemimpi, the sequel to the nation-wide hit Laskar Pelangi is set to take up the honor on the evening of 4th December. Also on the bill is Max & Co from Switzerland, and the Jake Gyllenhall film, Brothers. www.jiffest.org

20 November
Anggun Live, Medan

Indonesia’s favorite musical export returns home for a muchanticipated road show. After dates in Bali, Surabaya and Bandung, catch this final leg in Medan, and crowd-pleasing hits like ‘Snow on the Sahara’ and ‘Tua-Tua Keladi’. Local heartthrob Ello will make a guest appearance for some hot duets. www.anggunroadshow2009.com

5-12 December
Children Art Festival, Jogjakarta

Spread over a week, catch this colorful festival showcasing a variety of art styles from Indonesian children. Held in Taman Budaya Jogjakarta, the event’s painting exhibitions and live performances are all free of charge. Call (0)274 523512.

10-12 December
Kenduri Seni Melayu, Batam

Visit the historic Riau Islands for this annual event celebrating Malay culture, featuring evenings of dance, song and poetry. Spectators gathered in the Nagoya area will include Batam locals, plus visitors from Medan, Malaysia and Singapore.