Harry at home in oriental costume

Harry Darsono, 50, is Indonesia's leading international couturier. Born with dyslexia, he went on to open Pantara, a school for children with learning difficulties. He is also the founder of the Harry Darsono School of Art and Design. The former dancer and pianist living in Cilandak, South Jakarta, shared his thoughts with The Jakarta Post's William Furney.

Question: If you had a choice, what would you be doing now?

Answer: Traveling to the U.K., especially to Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

What makes you tick?

My mind, mood and business intuition.

What traits do you most like about yourself?

Being cheerful, honest, friendly, warm and helpful.

And deplore?

Dishonesty and being moody.

Whom do you admire?

My parents, Jesus, Buddha and Sir Winston Churchill.

What kind of clothes do you like to wear?

Any oriental costumes.

What was the last book you read?

An Indonesian novel, Chabaukan (by Remy Silado). It's about the roots of Indonesian (Javanese) and Chinese culture.

Do you ever worry about your weight?

I worry so much about my weight.

What makes you angry?

Dirt, dust and impropriety.

When was the last time you were angry?

Two days ago.

What characteristics do you dislike in others?

Dishonesty, pushiness/aggressiveness, procrastinators, know-it-alls, deenergizers, con artists, badgers (hit and run experts) and whiners.

What makes you laugh?

Odd things, pretenders, illogical people and imitators.

And cry?

Poverty and violence.

If there were something you could change about your appearance, what would it be?

I wouldn't change anything.

What makes life worth living?

Being brave and playful.

Do you have a favorite song?

I wish you love, 1958.

And movie?

Doctor Zhivago

What is your favorite smell?

The bark of trees, fresh flowers, fruits and water.

Have you had, or would you ever consider, plastic surgery?

Yes, a bit! To remove the bags under my eyes.

What is the cost of popularity?

Privacy.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a brave, innovative and humanitarian person.

Are we alone in the universe?

No, we are not.

If the world were going to end in 24 hours, what would you do?

Create something beautiful, useful, playful and yet graceful.