Planet Hollywood event to raise funds

JAKARTA (JP): Planet Hollywood Jakarta is holding a Charity Gala Dinner to celebrate its fourth anniversary on Thursday night.

The dinner is expected to raise Rp 45 million (US$6,400) for the purchase of 1,000 packages of sembako (basic necessities), to be distributed to poor families throughout Jakarta.

"With the deepening social problems resulting from the economic difficulties in Indonesia at present, the need for help and assistance for the needy is far greater than ever before," the general manager of Planet Hollywood Jakarta, Andy Ryan, said.

Mike Fitzpatrick from DHL Worldwide Express, a major sponsor of the event, said he hoped to inspire other organizations to plan similar charity events.

"During such a difficult time, any kind of charity program will mean a lot to those who have been hardest hit by the prolonged economic crisis", he said.

Entertainment for the gala charity night will include performances by local talents Vina Panduwinata, Ruth Sahanaya, Yana Julio and MC Indra Safera. A fashion show is also on the program and door prizes, including a return ticket to Singapore with Thai Airways, Planet Hollywood meal vouchers and hampers and hotel vouchers from the Nikko Bali Resort, will be offered. (48)