Sun, 19 Mar 2000

Guest What? Harry Darsono

Harry Darsono turned 50 last Wednesday. "I hope I will be happy, healthy and wealthy," Harry said as he made his wishes.

As a noted couturier and one of the members of the Darsono family, owners of the Wismilak cigarette company in Surabaya, East Java, Harry is, of course, not poor.

"My definition of a rich man is one who has a lot of friends and a fulfilling life," said Harry who is now occupied with art and social activities.

A high fashion designer, lecturer, social activist and a patron of the arts, he is also one of the founders of the Indonesian Symphonic Society which promotes classical music.

Harry said many rich people were now isolated in their own circles and were unhappy because they didn't dare show their faces in public, referring to those who are buoyed with "felonious" money.

"I feel great now. I have so many friends. Although I'm now 50, I really feel ten years younger," smiled the boyish-faced Harry. (raw)