Guess What? Harry Darsono

Guess What? Harry Darsono

There will be no lavish birthday party for famous designer Harry Darsono who turns 49 on March 15.

"I am going to spend my birthday with several close friends, orphans and street children in Yogyakarta," said Harry, who left for Yogyakarta with a number of foreign diplomats, scholars and businessmen by train last Saturday.

"I read a book by Emanuel Subangun about the worst-off kids in Yogyakarta and I was deeply touched by his story," said Harry, who admitted that he could not finish reading Subangun's book.

He visited Yogyakarta to show his well-to-do friends and affluent clients that there are so many poor children who badly need their help.

While in Yogyakarta, Harry plans to meet with Sultan Hamengku Buwono X and a number of artists, including painter Kartika Affandi and batik designer Ardianto.

At present, Harry is involved with a number of foundations which deal with such issues as children's education, unemployed youth and the poor.

"I'm sort of amphibious, living in two different worlds. I take money from the rich and give it to the needy," Harry said. (raw)