NEVER SAY NEVER TO QUALITY

INTERNAL AUDIT AND GAP ANALYSIS, TOOLS FOR MOVING FORWARD

2012-01-28T12:52:00.003+07:00

Internal Audit and Gap Analysis are common tools used by many organizations for moving forward in achieving its goal. In many areas, both are used as activities to determining which requirements are being met and which are not. Both are used to determining the steps to be taken in moving from the present condition to a desired condition. Both are used to identify “where are we now” and “where should we go later”. The problem now is, how to distinguish internal audit and gap analysis in order to achieve the goal effectively?

Internal Audit

Definition and Purpose

Internal audit is an independent, objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve an organization’s operations. It is used to determining the steps to be taken in moving from a current state to a desired future-state and helps an organization accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic approach to evaluate and improve the processes. It also seeks to determine the degree to which your organization conforms to the requirements of a standard or specification, or to your own organizational requirements which was set up before. This audit is performed in more than one dimension, through review of documentation evidence and also by questioning employees.

From the standpoint of time, an internal audit is usually conducted after development of processes (e.g., a quality management system) has been completed and some implementation has occurred. The reason is that internal auditors will be questioning the auditees to assess their compliance with the system. If implementation is not underway, it may be hard to prove that employees are actually using the system and are knowledgeable of their roles in meeting the standard or specification or of the organization’s own requirements. Within this term, an internal audit is used for having an assessment or evaluation on the organization and its personnel, and also conducted periodically by the internal personnel of the organization to ensure a continual improvement within the organization operation.

Internal Audit Report

Internal audit reports usually present the lead internal auditor’s summary on the overall impression of the organization’s degree of conformance and a list of findings. Good reports include not just nonconformities, but also observations, noteworthy efforts, and even opportunities for improvement. I always like to point out at least one noteworthy effort to my clients because it gives the report a positive note. I also believe that if there are no specific efforts to praise, the organization should at least be lauded for committing the resources and time to meet the requirements of the standard or specification. There is not much advice in an internal audit report; however, “opportunities for improvement” and observations, when presented correctly, should give the organization enough fuel for action and follow up.

Gap analysis

Definition and Purpose

Gap analysis is one of the techniques for determining the steps to be taken in moving from a present situation/condition to a desired situation/condition. It also called need-gap analysis, need analysis and need assessment. From another point of view, a gap analysis is used to determining the degree of conformance of the organization to the requirements of an agreed standard or specification. A gap analysis usually consists of : 1.Listing of characteristic factors (such as attributes, competencies, performance levels) of the present situation ("what is"); 2. Cross listing factors required to achieve the future objectives ("what should be"), and then 3. Highlighting the gaps that exist and need to be filled. Main activity in a gap analysis is document review, or a “show me the evidence” activity, evidence which usually will come in the form of a record or document. During a gap analysis, only very minor auditing is done; rather, key process owner or project stakeholders provide evidence that they have met the requirements set forth in the specification or standard.

From the standpoint of time, gap analysis is often conducted at the early stage while an organization seeking compliance to a chosen standard or specification. The main reason why gap analysis is conducted at the beginning of the development phase is because the organization wants to know where it stands in regard to meeting the desired standard, and it wants to know specifically what it must do to close the gaps. The organization wants to know where the holes are—whether few or many—and what it needs to do to close those holes and get closer to fully meeting the requirements. So, a gap analysis is “a forward looking”, and usually performed by external personnel of the organization.

Gap Analysis Report

Gap analysis report should present a clear summary of where the major gaps exist between the company’s documentation and the chosen requirements. It should also show a detailed account of each requirement and the degree of compliance, with corresponding actions that should be taken to close these gaps. This is the major difference between a gap analysis report and an audit report : the gap analysis report has some inherent advice to it, which makes it suitable to be accomplished by consultants or experts in the chosen standard or specification.

TOP 10 MISTAKES MADE BY QUALITY PROFESSIONAL

2012-01-12T20:56:00.001+07:00

Masih suasana tahun baru, mumpung masih segar, baik semangat maupun komitmen untuk melakukan yang lebih baik dan bahkan terbaik di tahun ini, bila Anda seorang professional di bidang Quality Management, atau seorang Quality Engineer, atau apapun itu posisi anda seputar Quality, dan bila tahun ini Anda bertekad ingin menjadi lebih professional di bidang Quality, 10 (sepuluh) kesalahan berikut ini kudu dihindari, dijauhi dan dibuang dari diri Anda sedini mungkin. Maaf bila uraian di bawah ini harus dalam bahasa Inggris dengan maksud agar “the whole massage” dapat sampai secara utuh (namun bila tetap ingin dalam bahasa yang dapat Anda mengerti, silakan menggunakan fasilitas Google Translate yang tersedia pada bagian kiri atas halaman blog ini) :

1) Frightening people into compliance. "I think my biggest mistake was in using the Warning Letters as a beat stick, to frighten people into compliance. I was also a gunfighter, not a team builder. It worked well for a short time, but when I needed help everyone was afraid that I would 'shoot' them"

2) Not getting a concrete auditee agreement before submitting audit findings. "We had a practice of sending the draft audit report first to the auditees, then gave them some time to raise concerns - if any - due to differences in the findings briefed during the audit closure and those documented in the draft report. After this report, findings would be logged in an internal audit management tool for formal tracking - but in one instance, I logged the findings directly and an auditee reported high dissatisfaction, claiming that such a finding was not conveyed during the Audit at all. It took many rounds of discussion to ascertain the validity of the finding. Though the auditee was convinced, too much energy was spent that could have been averted."

3) Spending too much time at one company. "My biggest mistake was working for my first employer for 18 years! Staying with a company too long can limit your rate of growth and breadth of experience. Set a time limit after which you can review the pros and cons of staying a little longer vs. moving on to gain more experience from other organizations."

4) Working in organizations in which top management was not engaged in quality and really valued it. "Quality was 'necessary because customers expect a quality function'. If top management does not understand the total business value of the quality/reliability function you as a quality professional will be marginalized just as the function is."

5) Not taking any Quality Certification courses early enough in my quality career.

6) Wanting to achieve perfection in my first attempt.

7) Emphasis on putting out fires rather than finding competent staff to prevent problems. "Putting out fires tends to overwhelm a truly comprehensive QMS in many cases. Finding competent staff and showing trust in their skill sets and experience is key to the lean quality management system (QMS) staffing available at many project builds. Staff knows when it is well led."

8) Looking for errors, and finding fault with the person who had performed the work. "I found that no person deliberately commits a mistake. There must be faults and loose ends in the system in which they are working. I started looking for those instead, and very soon found knowledge gaps in persons due to incomplete Work Instructions (W.Is), an unhealthy production quality control process, and work allocation mistakes as inexperienced persons were allocated difficult projects, inadequate training, etc."

9) Trying to "boil the ocean". "Start small with focus on a pilot area or project. A quick sustained win is good for both your career and a stepping stone for the future."

10) Don't make excuses, do the hard thing and make it right. "My biggest quality mistake was as a new production supervisor one of our 'minor' pieces of equipment was not fully completing the cinch of a cable connector to the cable. It mostly held unless you pulled on the wire, but since the wire harness was covered that 'shouldn't' have happened; of course, many of the connections came open but only after shipping. It's the little things that don't look all that bad but still matter in a big way."

Have a happy and prosperous new year!

MEMAKNAI DATANGNYA TAHUN BARU

2011-12-31T13:42:00.002+07:00

Oleh: Musni Umar

Sudah menjadi tradisi, menjelang datangnya tahun baru atau yang sering disebut "pergantian tahun" selalu diisi dengan berbagai kegiatan untuk melepas tahun yang sedang dijalani dan menyongsong datangnya tahun baru. Dalam menyambut datangnya tahun baru, pada umumnya dimeriahkan dengan berbagai macam hiburan dan pesta di tempat-tempat umum, hotel serta tempat paling istimewa dan eksklusif.

Masyarakat Jakarta dan kota-kota besar lainnya di Indonesia, menjelang akhir tahun, banyak yang melancong keluar negeri untuk berlibur. Sebagian lainnya pergi ke pusat-pusat wisata di dalam negeri untuk menghabiskan liburan akhir tahun dan awal tahun. Dan yang lebih banyak lagi, menjelang pergantian tahun, banyak warga keluar rumah untuk pesta pora di jalan-jalan sambil meniup terompet. Akibatnya semua ruas jalan protokol dipadati manusia dan kendaraan, sehingga macet di mana-mana. Di malam pergantian tahun pun banyak terjadi kecelakaan sehingga warga mengalami luka-luka dan bahkan kehilangan nyawa.

Introspeksi dengan SWOT
Setiap individu, keluarga, dan kelompok masyarakat, sebaiknya melakukan introspeksi (muhasabah) menjelang tutup tahun dan menyongsong tahun baru. Bertanya pada diri sendiri apa yang sudah dilakukan pada tahun yang akan ditinggalkan dan program apa yang akan dilakukan pada tahun mendatang.

Introspeksi sangat penting dilakukan. Setidaknya terdapat 3 (tiga) alasan mengapa introspeksi perlu dilakukan. Pertama, supaya mengetahui perjalanan selama satu tahun, kesuksesan atau kegagalan. Kalau sukses, maka dapat ditingkatkan pada tahun mendatang. Sebaliknya, kalau gagal dan kurang berhasil dapat diketahui penyebab kegagalan, sehingga bisa diperbaiki pada tahun mendatang.

Kedua, ada progress report (laporan kemajuan) setiap individu, keluarga, dan kelompok. Dengan begitu, ada dorongan yang kuat untuk melakukan peningkatan dan perbaikan pada tahun mendatang. Oleh karena, siapa yang hari ini lebih baik dari hari kemarin, maka sesungguhnya dia telah beruntung, barang siapa hari ini sama dengan hari kemarin, maka dia telah merugi. Dan barang siapa yang hari ini lebih buruk dari hari kemarin, maka sesungguhnya dia terlaknat.

Ketiga, bisa membuat program yang lebih realistik dan dapat dilaksanakan. Untuk bisa membuat program yang diperlukan untuk memacu kemajuan, bisa dilakukukan introspeksi dengan menggunakan analisis SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunities, dan threats) menjelang akhir tahun dan menyongsong tahun baru. Setiap pribadi, keluarga, dan kelompok masyarakat, paling tidak diingatkan dan disadarkan kembali bahwa masing-masing mempunyai kekuatan (strength), yang jika dioptimalkan dapat membawa kebangkitan, kemajuan dan kejayaan di masa depan.

Di samping itu, kita mempunyai kelemahan (weakness), yang harus terus-menerus diperbaiki dan ditingkatkan kualitasnya supaya tidak menjadi penyebab timbulnya kemunduran. Pada saat yang sama harus pula disadari bahwa ada banyak peluang (opportunities), yang dapat diisi dan dimanfaatkan untuk membawa kebangkitan dan kemajuan. Juga jangan dilupakan, ada dan bahkan banyak ancaman (threats) yang dihadapi dan harus dieliminir sekecil mungkin yang bakal timbul agar terhindar dari kerugian dan kemunduran.

Maknai Pergantian Tahun

Selama ini pergantian tahun selalu diisi pesta pora untuk pemuasan hawa nafsu dengan menghabiskan uang, energi dan menimbulkan kerugian harta benda dan nyawa. Berjalannya waktu dan semakin bertambahnya usia, seharusnya menyadarkan kita bahwa pergantian tahun harus dimaknai dengan melakukan introspeksi seperti dikemukakan di atas.

Selain itu, pergantian tahun harus pula dimaknai dengan pemahaman dan penghayatan, sebagai berkurangnya dan bertambahnya usia (umur). Bertambahnya usia, berarti bertambah kematangan dan kearifan. Diharapkan bertambahnya umur, semakin memacu semangat dan etos kerja untuk mengisi hidup dengan banyak berbuat kebaikan, karena sebaik-baik manusia ialah yang panjang umurnya dan banyak perbuatan baiknya.

Di samping itu, pergantian tahun harus pula dimaknai bahwa Tuhan masih memberi kesempatan untuk hidup. Maka sudah sepantasnya dipergunakan untuk meningkatkan partisipasi membangun bangsa Indonesia yang sebagian masih terpuruk dalam kemiskinan, kebodohan dan keterbelakangan.

Terakhir, pergantian tahun, berarti munculnya tahun baru, dan diharapkan membawa semangat baru dan harapan baru untuk menghela kebangkitan dan kemajuan Indonesia.

Selamat Tahun Baru 2012 semoga Tuhan selalu menyertai dan menunjuki seluruh bangsa Indonesia.

Musni Umar, Ph.D adalah sosiolog, Direktur Institute for Social Empowerment and Democracy (INSED)

SENTUHAN 'INDONESIAN ENGINEER' DALAM BOEING 787 DREAMLINER

2011-10-06T09:51:00.007+07:00

Boeing 787 Dreamliner yang super keren itu ternyata lahir dengan sentuhan beberapa engineer asal Indonesia yang terlibat sebagai tim yang ikut mendesain dan membuat burung besi mutakhir keluaran Boeing Company yang berkantor pusat di Chicago Illinois, Amerika Serikat itu. Menurut Bram Djermani, engineer asal Indonesia yang tergabung dalam tim produksi, di Boieng saat ini ada setidaknya 32 orang Indonesia yang bekerja, termasuk 4 orang Indonesia di antaranya yang terlibat langsung dalam pembuatan pesawat Boeing 787 Dreamliner ini. Bram sendiri terlibat dalam tim produksi pesawat baru ini, sedangkan 3 engineer Indonesia lainnya tergabung dalam tim Planning Engineer, Liaison Engineer dan Stress Engineer. Mereka bersama dengan sekitar 500 orang karyawan Boeing lainnya terlibat dalam desain dan produksi hingga pengiriman pesawat terbaru tersebut.

Pesawat Boeing ini didesain dan dibuat dengan beberapa keunggulan kualitas dibanding dengan pesawat-pesawat Boeing terdahulu. Keunggulan pertama adalah dari segi kualitas materialnya, dimana pesawat Dreamliner 787 ini terbuat dari bahan komposit (kombinasi beberapa jenis material) pada hampr 50% dari bahan dasar pesawat tersebut, sehingga lebih ringan dari pesawat biasa. Pesawat ini juga diklaim hemat bahan bakar sampai 20%, selain karena ringan, juga karena menggunakan mesin terbaru buatan General Electric dan Rolls Royce, yang juga mampu mengurangi emisi sampai 20%. Beberapa keunggulan tersebut mendorong pesawat ini dapat melaju dengan lebih cepat rata-rata dari tipe sebelumnya, sebagai perbandingan, jarak Dubai - Jakarta yang biasa ditempuh sekitar 8-9 jam, dengan Dreamliner 787 dapat ditempuh hanya dengan 7 jam saja! Jendela Dreamliner 787 ini terdapat lapisan gel yang dapat bereaksi secara kimiawi untuk membuat jendela tampak bening atau gelap sesuai kebutuhan, dan dapat dikendalikan secara elektronik untuk menyesuaikan cahaya yang masuk, sehingga penumpang tidak perlu lagi menutup jendela akibat silau oleh cahaya matahari pada waktu siang hari. Para penumpang juga dimanjakan dengan televisi layar sentuh yang berbasis Android, yang membuat penumpang dapat terhibur dan tidak bosan dalam penerbangan yang panjang. Langit-langit pesawat pun mengalami perubahan desain, dimana warna langit bisa berubah sesuai keadaan langit di luar pesawat. Sebagai contoh, pada waktu matahari baru terbit, warna langit-langit pesawat akan berubah warna dari oranye menjadi biru.

Bram mengatakan, "Di Boeing ada banyak orang yang berasal dari berbagai negara. Kami bangga bisa terlibat di sini, mampu bersaing dengan orang-orang dari luar lainnya. Tapi kami tidak kehilangan nasionalisme," Bram yang bergabung sejak 4 tahun lalu ini berharap agar industri pesawat di tanah air dapat segera bangkit dan mampu bersaing dengan negara-negara lainnya.

Salut untuk Bram dan kawan-kawan! Kiranya jerih-payah Anda dan rekan-rekan yang berjuang membela nama bangsa di luar negeri menjadi sumber inspirasi dan motivasi bagi rekan-rekan sebangsa lainnya untuk berkiprah dan berperan menjadikan bangsa kita bangsa yang bermartabat dan menjadi berkat bagi dunia.

DEFINING LEVEL OF INSPECTION IN ITP (INSPECTION AND TEST PLAN)

2011-09-25T14:58:00.000+07:00

As we know, Inspection and Test Plan (known as ITP) is an inspection tool on how to ensure and control whether the product is fit to the requirement and whether the inspection activity has carried out with the agreed specification, standard and procedure. ITP plays an important role in the project quality assurance (see post: INSPECTION AND TEST PLAN (ITP) ROLE IN PROJECT QUALITY ASSURANCE). One common issue in generating or reviewing ITP is how to define the level of inspections in the ITP. Moreover if the product that we will be checking are in big quantities within a short term of inspection, it is not practical to inspect 100% of them. It will take a long time; it is expensive, and inspectors are less effective as they get tired.

In all conscience, a 100% check does not yield that much more information than inspecting a statistically representative sample. The question becomes: how many products should be checked? More samples to check means more chances to reject bad products when they are bad, but it also means more days (and certainly: budget) spent in the inspection. But should the number of samples only depend on the order quantity? What if the manufacturer had a lot of quality problems recently, and you suspect there are many rejected product? In this case, inevitably you want more quantities to be checked. But, on the other hand, if an inspection requires destruction tests, shouldn't the sample size be drastically reduced? And if the quality issues are always present on all the products of a given batch (for reasons inherent to processes at work), why not check only a few samples?

For these reasons, different levels of inspection should be considered to resolve this issue, which will let the purchaser to choose the suitable inspection level which fit to their purpose or quality standard.

There are 3 (three) general levels of inspection commonly utilized:

Level 1

In this level, less samples are inspected. This inspection level is appropriate when the client is confident that the quality of the products is acceptable. You have to review: has the supplier passed most previous inspections? Do you feel confident in their products quality? Instead of doing no quality control, buyers can check less samples by opting for a level-I inspection.

However, settling on this level by default, in order to spend less time/money on inspections, is very risky. The likelihood of finding quality problems is lower than generally recommended.

Level 2

It is the most widely used inspection level, to be used by default, and it is chosen for 90%+ of inspections carried out at the supplier's premises.

ISO 2859 definition for normal inspection:“Normal inspection is used when there is no reason to suspect that the [quality level] differs from an acceptable level.” Unless otherwise specified, level 2 shall be used. Level 1 may be used when less discrimination is needed or level III when greater discrimination is required.

Level 3

In this level, more samples are checked. This inspection level is used for suppliers that recently had severe quality problems, or for high-value products. If a supplier recently had quality problems, this level is appropriate. More samples are inspected, and a batch of products will (most probably) be rejected if it is below the quality criteria defined by the purchaser. Some purchasers opt for level-III inspections for high-value products. It can also be interesting for small quantities, where the inspection would take only one day whatever the level chosen.

ISO 2859 definition for this tightened inspection :“Use of a sampling plan with an acceptance criterion that is tighter than that for the corresponding plan for normal inspection.”

And also, there are 4 (four) special inspection level can be used, which are in the group of Special Inspection Level. This Special Inspection level is used instead of the general inspection level when the production has to be operationally inspected. The special inspection level can range from S1, S2, S3 or S4 and may be used where relatively small sample sizes are necessary or large sampling risks can be taken. Examples of this are inspections involving destructive or costly (time consuming) type inspection, or where large lots are involved, small sample sizes are desired and large risks can be tolerated such as repetitive processes (screw machine, stamping, bolting operations, etc.) performed by a quality supplier. Larger sample sizes are for inspection levels increasing from S-1 to S-4.

TIPS FOR CONDUCTING AN EFFECTIVE AUDIT CLOSING MEETING

2011-08-26T18:16:00.000+07:00

Last but not least. In an audit cycle, a closing meeting shall be held so that everyone can discuss the audit report and review the management responses. This is an opportunity to discuss how the audit went and any remaining issues. It also represents the final chance for internal auditing to display its professionalism and presentation skills, as well as an opportunity to maintain a positive relationship with the client. Auditors usually hold the closing meeting at the end of fieldwork and approach it as a "nonevent." In other words, there should be no surprises during the closing meeting, and all issues should be resolved before the meeting begins. To ensure the closing meeting runs smoothly, auditors may need to conduct a series of pre-closing meetings to tie up any loose ends. Then, closing meeting which normally attended by senior managers who did not directly participate in the audit, can be confined to a presentation and discussion of the audit process and results, rather than serving as a working meeting.

Lead Auditor shall prepare a closing meeting agenda which will be consist of:

1. Introduction (particularly if anybody not present at the opening meeting)

2. Thank company (by Lead Auditor)

3. Reconfirm scope of audit (by Lead Auditor)

4. Comment on good points (by Lead Auditor)

5. Summary of individual findings from each auditor

6. Summary of overall findings and recommendation (by Lead Auditor)

7. Submitting plan for corrective action, if any.

8. Follow-up action (hint: "where do we go from here?")

9. Confirm confidentially (secure all company's data only for authorized person)

10. Invite questions from company (clarification, etc)

11. Disclaimer - other non-conformities may exist

12. Obtain company representative's signature on report to acknowledge receipt.

KADAL SENEWEN DI NEGERI MAKIN SENEWEN

2011-08-17T08:01:00.002+07:00

Renungan 17 Agustusan.
The 66th Anniversary of Indonesia Independence Day

Satu tahun lagi usia kemerdekaan negeri ini bertambah. Bila tahun silam saya mengangkat tulisan seorang budayawan Djoko Suud dari situs Detikcom berjudul KADAL DI NEGERI SENEWEN ke dalam blog ini, kali ini saya mencoba mengangkat perenungan yang berangkat dari tulisan beliau, sekedar titik refleksi dari waktu ke waktu, bulan ke bulan semenjak tulisan KADAL DI NEGERI SENEWEN itu lahir sampai berusia setahun saat ini. Barangkali bila bung Djoko Suud menjadi presiden, saya akan mengusulkan agar renungan/refleksi bertajuk KADAL DI NEGERI SENEWEN itu selalu menjadi pidato kenegaraan beliau di puncak peringatan hari kemerdekaan republik ini. Dari situ kita dapat bercermin dan berevaluasi diri: adakah sedikit saja perbaikan dan kemajuan positif yang terjadi? Atau sebaliknya, bertambah burukkah diri kita/bangsa kita? Jadi, justru pidato bung Djoko itu akan lebih menarik dan menantang ketimbang pidato pemimpin saat ini yang isinya cuma koleksi hal-hal usang, klise dan rongsokan yang dipoles sebagai bagian dari usaha meninggikan - atau setidaknya - memperbaiki citranya sebagai pemimpin.

Negeri ini memang semakin senewen saja. Para pemimpin tak bosan-bosan memberikan janji, padahal rakyat sudah muak dengan janji. Ini memang negeri sejuta janji. Dasar negaranya adalah slogan. Kebijakan pemerintahnya bak pamflet. Pejabatnya pemalas dan kemaruk harta. Wakil rakyatnya ber-otak mesum, tukang selingkuh dan suka cari sensasi. Rakyatnya hobi nge-gosip dan tawuran. Semakin lengkaplah sudah! Dari atas sampai bawah, dari petinggi sampai rakyat jelata semua sudah terinfeksi virus-virus amoralitas. Semua virus-virus moral itu sudah merasuk dan merusak ke seluruh pembuluh darah dan sel-sel syaraf. Barangkali cuma bisa dibasmi dengan cuci darah dan cuci otak!

Kadal ‘meng-kadali’ kadal lainnya. Kadal makin senewen hidup di negeri yang tambah senewen. Ini negeri memang semakin senewen. Di negeri ini semua orang bicara ‘kebaikan’, tapi nyaris tidak ada orang berbuat baik yang keluar dari hati yang tulus, jujur dan bermoral. Di negeri ini, antara mulut dan hati sudah lama sekali tidak bersahabat. Egoisme merajalela. Tiap orang mau jadi raja terhadap sesamanya. Toleransi dan sikap ‘mendahulukan kepentingan yang lain’ sudah jadi kenangan kita-kita yang dulu belajar PMP (Pendidikan Moral Pancasila) di sekolah. Lihat saja contoh sederhana di jalanan. Pengendara mobil dan motor rebutan saling mendahului dan menyalip dan saling serobot di persimpangan. Enggan untuk antri, "yang penting saya selalu yang terdahulu!" Sungguh kontras dengan kondisi 25 tahun lalu saat saya masih baru mendapat SIM dan masih "bau kencur" sebagai pengendara mobil, dan juga sangat beda dengan apa yang saya temui di sebagian negara-negara tempat saya bekerja selama ini (yang nota bene tidak mengenal Pancasila), dimana ketertiban dan saling hormat-menghormati sesama pengendara begitu mengagumkan!

Sementara di barisan pemimpin, pemerintah dan elit politik kondisinya jauh lebih kronis. Bukan saja antara mulut dan hati sudah tidak lagi bersahabat, tetapi juga saling memperalat. Kemunafikan merajalela. Masing-masing berlomba-lomba dalam kemunafikan yang makin lama makin canggih cara dan gayanya. Tiap pejabat maunya nampak elok dan bersih. Padahal mereka seperti kuburan yang luarnya putih bersih dilabur dengan indah, tapi dalamnya adalah bangkai busuk dan bau menyengat! Janji-janji manis dan optimisme murahan menjadi penghias pidato pejabat. Tapi semua hanya menambah deretan omong kosong saja. Lihat saja bagaimana mereka berjanji bahwa harga bahan pokok akan dikendalikan, padahal rakyat terus menjerit tercekik harga pangan yang kian meningkat. Bahkan di negara yang menurut salah satu lagu Koes Plus “tongkat kayu dan batu jadi tanaman” ini, kini singkong dan garam pun harus di-impor! Lihat saja lelucon tak lucu pemimpin yang mengatakan dia optimis bahwa Indonesia bisa menjadi salah satu negara dengan skala ekonomi 10 terbesar di dunia dalam waktu 20-30 tahun ke depan. Bukankah itu sudah pernah di’nubuat’kan oleh pemimpin lain 20-30 tahun lalu? Dan bukankah lelucon ini juga tidak akan bisa dipertanggungjawabkan oleh dia sendiri pada 20-30 tahun yang akan datang? Belum terhitung lagi aparat penegak hukum (baca: polisi, jaksa, hakim) yang bagai serigala berbulu domba, yang tidak lagi suka menegakkan kebenaran malah suka membengkokkan kebenaran. Saya sangat geram bila mengingat pengalaman seorang bapak yang pernah mempertanyakan kepada seorang hakim mengapa praktek suap-menyuap tidak kunjung bisa dihapus dari lembaga peradilan, dan dijawab dengan enteng oleh hakim itu: “Memang tidak akan bisa, selama perut masih di depan…….” Prof Sahetapy menilai, fenomena korupsi di negeri ini sudah seperti kepala ikan busuk. Kalau kepalanya saja sudah busuk, ekor pun jadi ikut membusuk. Kalau pemimpinnya korupsi, jangan heran bawahan pun pasti ikut korupsi. Sementara, hidung kita ini sudah seperti hidung tukang ikan di pasar. Kita tahu baunya amis, tapi kita tidak melakukan apa-apa terhadap hal itu karena sudah menjadi hal yang biasa. Konon bahkan, Trias Politica versi Montesquieu, di negeri ini telah ber-metamorfosa menjadi Trias Corruptica. Doktrin yang memisahkan kekuasaan eksekutif, legislatif dan yudikatif ini, kini berubah mengerikan menjadi sebuah kondisi dimana ketiga pilar kekuasaan tersebut, yaitu eksekutif, legislatif dan yudikatif ramai-ramai dan secara "ber-jemaah" menjadi sarang korupsi....

Lalu kalau sudah begitu, siapa yang akan menyelamatkan negeri yang semakin senewen ini? Saya yakin pasti ada, dan selalu ada orang-orang yang masih lurus di tengah zaman yang sudah bengkok ini untuk dipakai mencegah kebusukan dan mengenyahkan kegelapan, walau barangkali mereka cuma segelintir. Segelintir orang ini wajib bekerja keras. Tragedi Niniwe/Niniveh (bhs Arab: Nainuwa) kota terbesar dan terkaya Asiria purba di timur sungai Tigris di zaman sejarah kuno 2600 tahun lalu, hendaknya menjadi pelajaran, ketika di hadapan nabi Yunus Niniwe bertobat (mulai dari raja sampai rakyat jelata). Niniwe merdeka dari dosa dan kebejatannya. Tetapi malang, kemerdekaan mereka itu tidak mereka jaga dengan baik, karena sejarah mencatat di kemudian hari negeri itu kembali takluk di bawah penjajahan dosa dan amoralitas. Kali ini hukuman tidak bisa ditunda. Sehingga 150 tahun setelah pertobatannya itu, Niniwe dikepung 3 bulan lamanya oleh Neo-Babylonia sebelum ditumpas habis tak berbekas pada bulan Juli tahun 612 SM (Sebelum Masehi). Bahkan namanya pun tak pernah terdengar lagi sampai sekarang. Tidak ada kesempatan kedua….

Akankah negeri yang sedang semakin senewen ini mengikuti jejak Niniwe? Ataukah akan mau rela dengan rendah hati mengakui segala kebejatan dan kemunafikan diri, dan bertobat, sehingga tragedi Niniwe adalah yang terakhir? Semoga.

WANNA WORKING ABROAD? - PART 2

2011-07-26T11:38:00.018+07:00

Tulisan ini dibuat karena didorong oleh banyaknya respon dari rekan pembaca (khususnya Indonesian) dalam bentuk pertanyaan dan konsultasi, baik melalui email kepada penulis maupun melalui YM (Yahoo Messenger) dan telepon/SMS. Secara pribadi, penulis ingin menyampaikan terimakasih kepada para pembaca yang merespon dengan positif mengenai tulisan WANNA WORKING ABROAD? terdahulu, karena sejujurnya apa yang disampaikan dalam tulisan tersebut adalah sekedar sharing / berbagi pengalaman yang bertolak dari kerinduan agar lebih banyak rekan-rekan Indonesian dapat berkiprah secara positif dalam profesinya masing-masing di luar negeri.

Dalam tulisan kali ini, penulis menyajikan beberapa hal penting yang kerapkali ditanyakan oleh pembaca, yang sebagian besar seputar hal melamar pekerjaan di luar negeri, yang di dalamnya termasuk: ketrampilan/skill yang dibutuhkan, cara membuat CV yang efektif, bagaimana berespon terhadap “head hunter” sampai soal gaya hidup di luar negeri. Berharap kembali tulisan ini dapat menjadi sedikit pendorong dan bekal buat rekan-rekan yang ingin berkiprah di kancah persaingan yang dahsyat di luar negeri.

Ketrampilan/skill yang dibutuhkan.

So pasti, bila ingin bersaing, kita mesti memiliki “sesuatu” dalam bentuk keahlian dan ketrampilan tertentu. Kualitas dari keahlian dan ketrampilan yang disukai oleh para Employer dan Head Hunter adalah keahlian dan ketrampilan yang sudah teruji dengan waktu dan “terjamin/tergaransi” dengan sertifikat-sertifikat standar internasional. Keahlian dan ketrampilan yang sudah teruji dengan waktu maksudnya adalah bahwa kita sudah cukup berpengalaman di bidang yang sama secara konsisten selama bertahun-tahun, biasanya minimal 10 tahun. Keahlian dan ketrampilan yang “terjamin/tergaransi” maksudnya adalah berupa pengakuan formal/resmi dari badan-badan sertifikasi internasional (ingat ya, bukan oleh perorangan) terhadap keahlian dan ketrampilan yang kita miliki. Biasanya hal ini didapat dengan mengikuti training atau course standar internasional, dengan examination/ujian di akhir training tsb, yang akan menentukan layak atau tidaknya kita menyandang keahlian tersebut. Jadi melalui sertifikasi yang kita terima tersebut, keahlian/ketrampilan kita dijamin oleh badan sertifikasi internasional bahwa kita benar-benar kompeten di bidang tertentu (bukan mengada-ada dan menganggap diri sendiri mampu). Catatan lagi, jangan coba memalsukan sertifikat yang sebenarnya anda tidak miliki (ada beberapa orang nekad melakukan hal ini), karena biasanya Employer akan melakukan pengecekan keabsahan sertifikat tersebut. Bahkan di beberapa institusi yang mengeluarkan sertifikat internasional, pengecekan dapat dilakukan secara online.

CV yang Efektif

Yang paling penting dalam menulis CV adalah kejujuran. Banyak para pencari pekerjaan memanipulasi CV nya demi memenuhi persyaratan dari lowongan pekerjaan yang diinginkan. Hal ini bukan saja tidak etis (bahasa mutakhirnya: kebohongan publik) tetapi juga justru akan menjadi boomerang bagi si pencari kerja sendiri. Ada pengalaman seseorang yang mencoba memanipulasi CV nya dengan membuat seolah-olah ia memiliki pengalaman tertentu selama bertahun-tahun, padahal sesungguhnya dia tidak memiliki itu semua. Celakanya, pada waktu interview pengalaman-pengalaman tersebut dipertanyakan oleh sang interviewer, dan lebih celaka lagi, sang interviewer melakukan cross-check! Jadi, jujurlah dalam menulis CV anda. Hal lain, Employer dan Head Hunter biasanya menyukai CV/resume yang formatnya sistematis, mudah dimengerti dan tidak “njlimet” (ingat: CV adalah representasi dari diri pribadi anda). Ada pengalaman seorang rekan (bukan orang Indonesia), Senior Welding Engineer, lulusan Amerika dengan segudang pengalaman dan sertifikat yang “wah”, tetapi pada suatu saat dia mengalami kesulitan untuk mendapatkan pekerjaan yang baru setelah kontrak kerjanya berakhir, dan bahkan sampai 9 bulan lamanya dia terombang-ambing dalam kesulitan tersebut. Setelah ditelusuri, ternyata CV nya sangat berantakan! Ia memerinci dengan sangat mendetail tiap job yang pernah dia lakukan, tanpa kejelasan apa sebenarnya kemampuan yang dia miliki secara spesifik. Di sisi lain, ada juga yang menulis CV secara terlalu “miskin” akan informasi, tanpa cukup memerinci job yang dilakukannya sepanjang pengalaman kerjanya. Orang tipe ini biasanya memang tipe orang yang “belum mengenal diri” nya sendiri, dan sekalipun dia sudah bekerja bertahun-tahun, sesungguhnya dia sendiri tidak tahu kemampuan dan keahliannya di bidang apa…

CV yang efektif paling tidak terdiri dari:

- Personal Details (nama, tempat tgl lahir, nomor paspor/ID, domisili tetap, nomor telpon, email, dsb)

- Education (pendidikan formal: jenjang pendidikan, nama universitas/akademi, fakultas, jurusan)

- Training (training/course yang diselenggarakan oleh badan resmi dan tersertifikasi/diakui luas)

- Skill (keahlian dan ketrampilan yang menonjol yang kita miliki)

- Professional Experience (urutan pengalaman anda bekerja, dimulai dari posisi terakhir/terbaru)

- Reference (nama orang yang dapat dimintai keterangan mengenai reputasi dan prestasi anda, beserta jabatannya sekarang, nomor telpon dan alamat email). Ingat, jangan mencatut nama orang sebagai referensi, jadi orang tsb harus diberitahu terlebih dahulu!

Berespon terhadap “Head-Hunter”

Bagi kita Indonesian, ada 2 macam Head Hunter. Pertama adalah head hunter atau agen pencari tenaga kerja lokal, yang berada di Indonesia sendiri, dan yang kedua adalah head hunter dari luar negeri (terbanyak adalah Inggris, India, Singapura dan beberapa Negara Arab). Head hunter/agen pada umumnya sama sekali tidak memungut fee, karena mereka sudah mendapatkan fee dari Employer, tetapi pada kenyataannya, ada beberapa agen lokal yang masih memungut fee dari pekerja. Dalam deal with agen lokal ini, mohon anda rajin berkonsultasi pada senior atau rekan yang berpengalaman. Pada umumnya, lowongan yang ditawarkan oleh Head hunter memakan waktu cukup panjang untuk sampai pada waktu mobilisasi/join ke perusahaan yang kita lamar, biasanya berkisar 1-3 bulan. Hal lain yang perlu diperhatikan, ada Head hunter yang juga merangkap sebagai perusahaan Outsourcing, dimana setelah aplikasi kita disetujui oleh Employer dan kita diminta untuk bergabung, kita akan bekerja buat Employer, tetapi gaji kita akan dibayar oleh perusahaan Outsourcing tsb. Mengenai hal ini, harap perlu berhati-hati karena dari pengalaman penulis dan juga beberapa rekan, ternyata ada perusahaan Outsourcing (khususnya dari luar negeri) yang melakukan praktek “ali baba” (maksudnya: kecurangan). Bila ada pembaca ingin berdiskusi lebih jauh mengenai hal ini, silakan melakukan kontak secara japri kepada penulis (email/YM: phlpar@yahoo.com). Terakhir, penulis kembali mengingatkan agar waspada terhadap tawaran kerja palsu yang umumnya para penipu tersebut mengaku sebagai Employer (jarang sebagai agen atau head hunter). Tips2 menghadapinya telah dijelaskan dalam post terdahulu: WANNA WORKING ABROAD?

Hidup dan Bekerja di Luar Negeri

Untuk bekerja di luar negeri, biasanya terdapat 2 opsi utama yang ditawarkan para Employer, yaitu Single Status dan Family Status. Single Status maksudnya adalah bahwa Employer hanya akan memberikan fasilitas untuk karyawan seorang diri saja, yang biasanya meliputi akomodasi, makan, transportasi, dsb. Untuk Family Status, Employer bisa saja menyediakan akomodasi dan berbagai fasilitas lainnya bagi karyawan, pasangan (istri/suami) dan anak-anak (biasanya yang ditanggung sampai usia 18 tahun saja). Family Status ini cukup menarik apabila Employer menyediakan berbagai fasilitas dari perumahan sampai sekolah anak. Jadi praktis pengeluaran kita hanya untuk makan dan pengeluaran pribadi lainnya. Pengalaman penulis, Single Status lebih menarik, karena selain tidak perlu repot-repot membawa keluarga apabila kita berpindah tempat, tetapi juga karena biaya hidup di luar negeri umumnya jauh lebih besar dibanding biaya hidup di Indonesia (khusus untuk daerah Timur Tengah/Middle East lihat posting: WORKING AND LIVING IN GULF COUNTRIES). Jadi untuk program menabung, pilihan Single Status akan lebih menguntungkan, karena kita “mencangkul” di luar negeri, tapi “belanja” di dalam negeri. Perlu diingat, untuk yang sudah berkeluarga dengan anak bersekolah, kalau memungkingkan pilihlah Single Status dengan system rotasi, maksudnya kita mendapatkan hak libur dan pul-kam ke tanah air secara rutin beberapa kali dalam setahun, ada yang 2 kali setahun (tiap 6 bulan), 3 kali setahun (tiap 4 bulan), 4 kali setahun (tiap 3 bulan). Pengalaman penulis, system rotasi 2 bulan ON (maksudnya: On Duty, alias periode bekerja) dan 1 bulan OFF (Off Duty, alias cuti), serta biaya tiket pesawat PP ditanggung Employer rasanya sangat acceptable. Maksudnya, dengan 2 bulan bekerja dan 1 bulan libur di tanah air sudah cukup untuk membunuh rasa rindu pada sanak family di tanah air. Tentu saja, system rotasi yang ada di tiap perusahaan tidak selalu sama, jadi hal ini memang sangat tergantung dari system yang ada di perusahaan tersebut. Pada akhirnya, kita perlu menyadari bahwa apa pun fasilitas yang diberikan oleh Employer semata-mata bertujuan agar kita dapat bekerja dengan efektif dan berkontribusi secara optimal terhadap kemajuan dan pencapaian dari perusahaan tempat kita bekerja nantinya, dengan tetap memperhatikan keseimbangannya dalam kehidupan pribadi/keluarga.

Bekerja di luar negeri, perjuangannya mula-mula memang sangat sangat berat, tapi ingat kata bijak: "Orang yang menabur dengan mencucurkan air mata akan menuai dengan bersorak sorai". Pada mulanya anda orang yang "mencari" pekerjaan, lama kelamaan menjadi orang yang "dicari" oleh para Employer or Head hunter. Jadi rebutan malah.
Akhirul kata, jadilah duta bangsa yang berkualitas dengan bekerja di luar negeri, mari kita tunjukkan bahwa masih ada harapan bagi bangsa kita yang sedang terpuruk ini untuk menjadi bangsa yang jaya...

SAFETY CONCERN IN ARC WELDING

2011-07-12T18:18:00.006+07:00

Working with Arc Welding is one of a few things that should be look out of the potential hazard whereas the major hazard is due to fire/heat. Therefore, welding is categorized as hot work process, at which required special attention to the health and safety management. Hot work process is defined as working with ignition sources near flammable. Welding and cutting are examples of hot work. Fires are often the result of the "quick five minute" job in areas not intended for welding or cutting. Getting a hot work permit before performing hot work is just one of steps involved in a hot work management program that helps to reduce the risk of starting a fire by welding or cutting in areas where there are flammable or combustible materials. NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) Standard 51B "Fire Prevention in the Use of Cutting and Welding Processes give us the standard for the fire codes and many fire prevention practices adopted by industry.

But the danger of fire is not the only danger in arc welding process. Generally, there are 4 (four) aspects of hazard in welding process those should be considered:

- Fire/Heat

- Electric Shock

- Fumes and Gases

- Light

Fire/Heat

In arc welding, electrical energy is converted into heat energy with temperature can be greater than 10,000 degrees F. The welding arc creates spark, which have the potential to cause flammable materials near the welding area to ignite and cause fires. The welding area should be clear of all combustible materials and the welder’ body should be protected with coveralls. The coveralls should be fire retardant, cuffless and pocketless with ho holes, tears and worn spots. Also must be equipped with welding gloves and skull caps to protect his head and hair.

Electric Shock

The hazard of electric shock is one of the most serious and immediate risks facing personnel involved in the welding operation. Contact with metal parts, which are “electrically hot” can cause injury or death. The electric shock hazard associated with arc welding is divided into 2 categories:

- Primary voltage shock (230-460 V)

- Secondary voltage shock (60-100 V)

To avoid electric shock from arc welding, use an insulating mat when you weld steel or other conductive materials. If you are welding in a wet or damp area or perspiring heavily, wear rubber gloves underneath your leather gloves. Keep welding cables clean and intact and position them so they do not get sparks or hot metal on them.

Fumes and Gases

Fume and gases are the result from an arc welding process, and also present a potential hazard. To reduce the risk of hazardous fumes and gases, keep the head out of the fume plume, because the concentration of fumes and gases is greatest in the plume. In addition, provide good ventilation with local exhaust system. As a rule of thumb, if the air is visibly clear and the welder is comfortable, the ventilation is probably adequate.

Light

Light radiation is emitted by the welding arc in three principal ranges:

- Infrared (wavelength: >700 nm). The main hazard to the eyes is that prolonged exposure (over a matter of years) causes a gradual but irreversible opacity of the lens. Fortunately, the infrared radiation emitted by normal welding arc causes damage only within a comparatively short distance from the arc.

- Visible light (wavelength: 400-700 nm). Intensively visible light approaching UV or ‘blue light’ wavelengths passes through the cornea and lens and can dazzle and in extreme cases, damage the network of optically sensitive nerves on the retina.

- Ultraviolet (wavelength: <400 nm). Excess exposure to UV causes skin inflammation and possibly even skin cancer or permanent eye damage. However the main risk amongst welders is for inflammation of the cornea and conjunctive, which commonly known as ‘arc eye’ or ‘flash’. This causes intense pain, usually described as ‘sand in the eye’ symptom and pain usually lasts for 12-24 hours. Wearing safety glasses with side shields will considerably reduce the risk of this condition.

The best way to manage the risks associated with welding is by implementing risk management program, which is the responsibility of the site management team. However, a safety practice will obtain good quality of the result.

REASONS AND ADVANTAGES IN IMPLEMENTING ISO 9001

2011-07-10T21:09:00.000+07:00

'Top 10' reasons why organizations implementing ISO 9001

To obtain "display" on the office wall
To be comply to the project bid requirement
To let the client/customer know that we try to fulfill customer satisfaction
To run the business efficiently and effectively
To control the business
To ensure continuous improvement
To be a 'world-class' business
To be the leader in the business competition
To fulfill international consensus in 'good business practice'
To ensure that quality management system is established

Typical Advantages:

Useful objectives to measure/design the business against
Good opportunity to stand back from running business - 'Is there a better way?'
Good opportunity to remove unnecessary paperwork
Forces you to look at interfaces & process
Helps put control in the business
Helps manage change
Should reduce wastage and problems
Should motivate staff/management
Working to 'world-class' requirement
More competitive
Shorter development time
Competent staff
Clear business vision

Customer has confidence that:

The product/service is sound
Problems will be swiftly resolved
More reliability and consistency
Supplier is customer focused

Staff/Management have:

Increase pride in work
More flexibility
Standardized best practice
Ease of picking up other-tasks
Clear performance/effectiveness goals
More job security
Clear route for resolving problems

HOW TO DEFINE NON-CONFORMITY IN AN AUDIT?

2011-07-01T14:56:00.000+07:00

A lot of auditors always think that an audit should be ended with a non-conformity. This is a misunderstanding to the goal of an audit (see posting: TIPS FOR PERFORMING QUALITY AUDITS). However, an auditor shall have a good knowledge and skill to define whereas a finding found, it is a Non-Conformity (either minor or major) or just an observation.

Non-conformity must:

- be factual/objective

- be clear and concise

- associates to the clause number of the standard (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, etc)

- be locatable by other Auditors

- defines the exact instance - objective evidence

- be given a unique identifier

- be categorized (e.g. minor/major) if third party audit

- be acknowledged, signed by Company/Client.

Then, how to categorize a finding as Observation or Minor or Major Non-Conformity?

Observation: must be a finding which there is a possibility moving towards a non-conformity. This normally followed by a recommendation.

Minor Non-Conformity: either a failure to meet one requirement of a clause of the reference standard (ISO 9001/OHSAS 18001/ISO 14001), or a single observed lapse in following one item of a Company procedure.

Note, with minor non-conformities, the auditor should take care to make sure that the auditee understands that:

- the non-conformity is minor

- a number of minors could demonstrate a system breakdown and perhaps contribute to a major.

Major Non-Conformity: the absence or the total breakdown of a system to meet the requirements of a clause of the reference standard (ISO 9001/OHSAS 18001/ISO 14001), or a number of minor non-conformities listed against one clause can represent total breakdown of a system and thus be considered a major non-conformity.

Note, with third party audits one major non-conformity normally results in a "non-certification" recommendation, hence the more carefully decision to upgrade a collection of minors to a major must be taken by the Lead Auditor, who should review all the team members findings in the subject area.

OPENING MEETING: KEY FOR AN EFFECTIVE QUALITY AUDIT

2011-06-20T09:27:00.000+07:00

When performing a Quality Audit, one step must be well prepared by the Auditor is an Opening Meeting. The Opening Meeting usually represents the first chance to meet the audit clients (the auditees) in a formal setting, but it is not just a meeting which held as a formality to say “hello” to the auditees and their organization. The Opening Meeting is very important to be held particularly for the Auditors, as they can establish good audit environment between auditors and auditees, which will facilitate the smooth running of the audit. If clients feel apprehensive about the audit, this meeting can serve as an opportunity to put them at ease and clear up any misconceptions.

The purposes of Opening Meeting are:

- Establishes authority from top management for the audit

- Should help to obtain top management “buy in”

- Shows openness

- Auditor can:

o Explain process

o Set expectations

o Confirm plan

o Answer questions

o Get co-operation

The Lead Auditor must control this meeting if the audit is to go to plan and be effective. This is best achieved by issuing an agenda, explaining the audit plan and trying to get “buy-in” to the audit from the management team.

Remember, relationships may be very formal at this point and the initial meeting may well be held in the chief executive’s office or the board room. A key objective is, therefore, to project a business-like approach whilst putting the auditee at ease.

Some tips for conducting meetings:

- Prepare properly

- Ensure meeting is held in a suitable place

- Have an agenda (to give structure to meeting)

- Use time carefully (be punctual)

- Explain exactly what is to happen (or has happened)

- Be objective, calm and professional

- Create a positive impression (here to ‘add value’ not nit-picking).

AUTO UT : AN IMPROVEMENT FOR QUALITY AND PROGRESS IN PIPELINE PROJECT

2011-06-17T17:35:00.001+07:00

In most welding inspection of long pipeline work, Auto Ultrasonic Test has been more popular than Radiographic Test. Some reasons why AUT makes sense:

-Improved sensitivity to planar flaws and ability to assess vertical extent of indications.

-Fewer repairs due to new ECA.

-Hard copy reporting.

-Feedback provided closer to real time.

-Lack of radiation hazards.

-High productivity

Comparison of RT vs AUT in pipeline:

Detection of Planar Flaws – RT

n Radiographic testing (RT) is based on the projection of volumetric flaws onto a two-dimensional image.

n Planar indications are detected only when the orientation is favorable.

n The detection of fusion problems is far more probable using ultrasonic (UT) methods as the beam entry angle can be designed based on the bevel

Detection of Planar Flaws – AUT

n Pipeline AUT methods were originally designed to be complementary to RT.

n The emphasis was on detection of side wall fusion problems.

n Lack of fusion is the most common defect associated with mechanized GMAW systems. The short circuiting mode of metal transfer has poor penetration.

n The multi-angle weld bevel prevented detection by RT for two zones.

With the inception of automated ultrasonics in the early 1980’s, an ECA was developed thereby allowing longer defects to be accepted. The repair percentage dropped immediately to 5 to 6%.

Today, repair rates of less than 3% are common on large diameter pipeline construction jobs.

Ability to Size

n Radiographic images present three dimensional flaws onto film. Through thickness sizing is accomplished with minimal success using contrast.

Fitness For Service

n RT acceptance criteria is based on a workmanship standard.

n “poor” weld means repair

n mostly volumetric flaws

n Sizing by UT allowed the introduction of acceptance criteria based on fracture mechanics

n Indications allowed to remain in service with greater confidence

n Far less repairs

Feedback

n UT inspection results are available 5 welds behind the welding crew compared to 30, or more, with RT.

n With mechanized welding, flaws are often repeated, so the timely feedback of results is critical.

n The inspection speed is approximately 3 minutes, weld to weld.

n The results detail the weld zone of the flaw which allows the contractor to make the necessary adjustments.

n An additional benefit of pipeline AUT is the ability of all contractors to work in close proximity to the inspectors and the elimination of radiation safety concerns.

Quality & Construction Cost Savings

n Quality of inspection is obtained through improved ability to detect the most severe indications (planar)

n Companies using pipeline AUT are realizing considerable savings over RT as the repair rates are considerably less

n ECA acceptance criteria

n Feedback

WHY DO WE CARE MORE ON CORRECTIVE ACTION THAN PREVENTIVE ACTION

2011-05-20T22:05:00.006+07:00

Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster has been cost billions of US Dollar.
How costly a price to pay for a corrective action........

Most organizations are well aware of taking action to eliminate the causes of non-conformity when it was found either during audit or customer complains. They expect that the audit report will only address an observation and not a non-conformity. Or, during the process of production, they just want the product get out of the door immediately and expect there is none of the product returned by their costumer……. On the other hand, just a few organizations care on how to optimize their process in the organizations as a preventive way to reduce or eliminate the non-conformity before it is occurred.

These are some of the reasons why an organization care more on Corrective Action than Preventive Action:

- The organization thinks that more concern to Corrective Action is more to save cost than
Preventive Action

- The organization thinks that Preventive Action is just wasting time

- The organization actually doesn't aware to the level of customer satisfaction

- The organization doesn't know what Preventive Action is, and also doesn't know how to do it.

DEFINITION

Preventive Action is an action to eliminate the causes of potential non-conformities in order to prevent their occurrence. It is a Pro-Active action which is triggered by potential problem. It is dealing with a problem before it happens.

Corrective Action is an action to eliminate the causes of non-conformities in order to prevent recurrence. It is a Reactive action which is triggered by problem. It is dealing with a problem after it happens.

WHAT TO DO

1. Develop Preventive Action procedure, which should clearly consist of analyzing data and setting objectives, clarifying customer and statutory requirements, applying a proven corrective action to other areas of the organization, being aware of any single change in the process and disaster recovery plan (note: this is the hot issue nowadays)

2. Perform a ‘future-peeking’ tools. All these 3 tools: KPI (Key Performance Indicator), Management Review and Audit result (observations and risks identified from audit) will help management to identify the potential problems in the organization. In addition, a FEMA (potential failure mode and effect analysis) also needed as a technical process used in the context of product and process risk analysis.

Organizations are never short of processes to trigger for preventive action, the difference lies in our mindset and perception. Have a look at the high risk industry such as aviation, nuclear and oil/gas, we will quickly realize how much effort they tried to “foresee” the potential problems and potential failure. So, let’s start giving more attention to Prevention Action, then undoubtedly we will no more busy to take care Corrective Action!

WHY 'QUALITY ASSURANCE' DIFFERENT WITH 'QUALITY CONTROL'?

2011-05-13T22:12:00.005+07:00

Quality is critically important, whatever is your business. It is how organizations and communities improve themselves and the products or services we rely upon for our safety, health and daily lives. In Quality, there are 2 (two) terms which are always associated with quality: Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC). Both are quality, but have different mission and role. So, why QA different with QC? This is an old and classic question, but apparently, there are still some confusions, particularly among junior professionals upon the understanding of QA and QC, whereas the terms are often used interchangeably to refer to ways of ensuring the quality of a product or service.

However, the terms obviously have different meanings as well as different role, although, on the other hand, both implemented simultaneously in a quality management system. Majority of quality professionals agree with the terms defined by ASQ (American Society for Quality), which defines Quality Assurance (QA) as a planned and systematic activities implemented in a quality system so that quality requirements for a product or service will be fulfilled; and Quality Control (QC) as the observation techniques and activities used to fulfill requirements for quality.

4 Pillars of Quality: Say What You Do -
Do What You Say - Prove It - Improve It

There are many articles and thesis discussed about the difference between QA and QC. Those are useful and each complement each other. In this article I would like to have a look to some opinions from some practitioners just to add our understanding more comprehensively about the differences between QA and QC. These comments are taken from our interesting discussion in LinkedIn Quality Management Professional Group regarding the primary difference between Quality Assurance and Quality Control, there are various approach of definitions and understanding which obviously based on their own backgrounds:

1. Vitaliy Kupchynskyy (SaaS Community Member of SoftServe, Ukraina): QA - processes, QC - products

2. Asare Opong (Computer Software Professional, UK): QC is an operation process. It is about checking that things meet requirements. QA is a holistic approach to software development. It is about ensuring that software is designed, developed, tested and documented in the correct way. A good analogy is to compare the software development process with the operations procedures within a company. Operations ensure that applications are run on time and that any errors are reported. Output is checked and compared with expected results and differences are reported as faults or errors. The software development life cycle (SDLC) is a comprehensive approach to developing software. It is about how and why we do things (QA) whilst QC is about following and running a set of instructions.

3. Simhachalam Mamidi (Sr QA Engineer, India): QA is evaluating the process, identifying the defects and suggesting improvements for the same. It is oriented towards "Prevention" eg: Audits, Reviews. Quality Control: QC is evaluating the product, identifying the defects and suggesting improvements for the same. It is oriented towards "Detection" eg: Testing

4. Jim York (Professional Instructor in IT, Boston-USA): Unfortunately, in today's world there doesn't seem to be a difference. Many companies want the Tester (QC) to also do process management (QA), fix defects (programmer), learn Java, change code, remove traceability, and do it without understanding what impact those changes could have on the product. I agree with the above comments, but what do I know I have only been in the industry for more than 20 years. It is constantly evolving and the needs of some of today's companies are digging themselves a big hole and it is going to come back to bite them. They seem to only care about profit and not customer satisfaction. "GET IT OUT THE DOOR! WE WILL FIX IT WHEN IT COMES BACK!' Trouble is no one is going to know what to fix or ow to fix it. There will be little or no documentation and I don't know how anyone is going to fix it without re-writing it. There goes regression testing.

5. Thomas Van Etten, MBA, CSSGB (Creative, articulate, detail-oriented leader with multi-tasking in fast-paced environments, North Carolina-USA): QA is the proactive approach to quality. We ensure materials going into the process are acceptable and follow the process using the 4M philosophy. Basically, you assure the customer that the product meets specs because you started with everything in spec, and you assume the outcome will be in spec as a result. QC is a reactive check. When we check Quality, it is after the fact. The products have been produced and cannot be changed. Here we are more concerned with verifying that product met specifications and if not, notifying the production arena to remedy the situation. As a result, we can conclude that a QA program is more efficient and less costly than a QC program, however, Quality of any kind must be viewed as a "necessary evil". While we don't want products rejected internally, it is less costly than the customer rejecting the products.

6. Eric Standifer (Quality Assurance Engineer in pharmaceuticals & food industry, Washington DC-USA): There seems to be varying thoughts depending on the industry. To put it simply for any industry would be: QA: 'Assures' procedures and systems are in place and valid (adherence to anything: company/industry standards and policies, regulatory, guidance, etc.). QC: Verifies that execution of procedures and systems are in 'Control' as outlined by Quality Assurance, these are often considered 'real time' checks. My personal belief is that ideally the two should be separate, but not necessary. As long as there is not a conflict of interest (like production and quality by same person) then the practice is acceptable.

7. Karthigeyan R.J (Quality Engineer, India): In simple words, QA is proactive measure and QC is reactive measure.

8. Ali Ghazimirsaeid (Quality Control at Oil & Gas industry, Canada): QA manages process and QC only controls product.

9. Ralph Perry (SQA Delivery Manager @ Professional Quality Assurance, Canada): QC is much more about inspection and validation of function and performance against requirements. QA is the end to end process of modeling, requirements, prototyping, design, development, integration and acceptance with test integrated into each step.

10. Sherif Khalil (Service Level Management Specialist, Egypt): QA:Process - QC: Product

11. Shivanshu Singh (Quality Engineer, India): QC is corrective action and QA is preventive action. QA assure that the right thing is done at the right time....QC detect the defects...!!!!!!

12. Greg Zimmerman, (CSQE Owner, Applied Quality Solutions LLC; Chair, ASQ Software Division Columbus, Ohio – USA): QC is asking the question, "Did we do this thing right?" QC is about inspection and measurement against documented specifications. QA is asking the question, "Did we do the right thing?" QA is about making sure the process both delivers the intended result, efficiently and effectively, and that result actually meets the desired goal or customer need.

So various opinions! Someone may agree or disagree. I just hope these will enrich and more helping us in implementing quality assurance and quality control in its place properly. Now we caught that QA is different with QC. Both are different but have only one goal. Therefore, whatever your role, whether as QA, as QC or both (QA/QC), we have the same mission to raise the voice of quality worldwide.

(For the above mentioned names of my colleagues, I thank you for your opinion and apologize if any mistake in writing the name, degree or profession.)

TIPS FOR PERFORMING QUALITY AUDITS

2011-05-09T12:50:00.004+07:00

Performing a quality audit is not just an activity to make interviews to the auditees, finding information or finding non-conformance. Also, a quality audit is not just to find “what’s wrong” and “who’s wrong”. A good quality audit shall be a learning process on how to understand the organization’s commitment in the quality improvement in achieving the goal. Therefore, an experienced quality auditor shall create and drive the audit activity as an opportunity to make a step ahead in the quality achievement of the organization.

Before an Audit:

Define the purpose of the quality audit (benchmarking? Continual improvement? Certification? Etc)
Identify the scope of the quality audit (the whole organization? Project? Which area/department? Etc)
Develop an audit plan (time schedule, auditors, tools required). Give the auditees enough information about your audit plan.
Develop Audit Checklist. Note, the checklist is to be used just as an evocation to the issues you want to check during the audit.
Perform document review which relevant to the audit. This also called: Desktop Audit.
Hold a meeting with auditors to discuss the audit purpose, scope and plan.

During an Audit:

Conduct an opening meeting. This meeting shall be attended by the key person in the organization who concerns about all quality matter (Director, QMR, Project Manager, Quality Manager, etc). In this meeting, explain the audit plan, time schedule and introduce the auditor team.
If required, conduct tour of site
Conduct Process Base Audit. Note, this is the best approach while performing an audit.
Be flexible, encourage honesty with the auditees, be objective and be a good listener but steer the interview with your questions. You may use ‘open question’ either ‘closed question’.
Always treat the auditees with respect.

After an Audit:

Identify all findings in the auditors meeting
Define observations, recommendations, non-conformity.
Prepare Audit Report. Note, in the report shall be clearly mentioned the conclusion which related to the purpose of the audit.
Conduct Closing Meeting. Note, auditors should encourage auditees to decide on the corrective actions. Allowing auditees to have input will give them ownership in implementing changes. On the other hand, ask for feedback on how the auditors were perceived and adjust your approach if necessary.

Useful tips:

An audit is not for a judgment to someone, but for helping others
An audit is an opportunity to train others
An audit is to involve people creates a feeling that everyone is an important contributor in the quality improvement of the organization
An audit is to reinforce the quality system and can only be effective if auditees feel ready to come under scrutiny. This doesn’t happen however, when auditors feel that they have failed to audit properly if no non-conformity are found. Just as you must be prepared to request evidence of auditee’s statements, you must never say: GOTCHA! when they fail to present it.

PIPELINE DRYING - A CONCERN OF QUALITY AT POST-HYDROTEST OF PIPELINES

2011-04-28T19:38:00.023+07:00

One problem that frequently found and shall be put as a concern of a project quality team after the hydrotesting of a pipeline is that it leaves the pipeline wet after the test although the de-watering process had done. The wetness of the pipeline has two effects: the corrosion of the inner wall of the pipeline will be accelerated and the occurrence of hydrates formation while reacts with the product transported in the pipeline (natural gas, ethylene, carbon dioxide, ethane, etc). Many transported products in the pipeline react with water to form acids and other corrosive compounds which would very quickly corrode the inner wall of the steel pipeline. This is the case with the pipelines carrying chlorine, carbon dioxide, and with 'sour' natural gas which contains traces of carbon dioxide or hydrogen sulphide. So it is common practice for the pipeline to be dried after the pressure test before it is put into operation.

The most common methods for drying pipelines are as mentioned below, whereas all of these methods may be applied to pipeline drying depending on the particular line and amount of dryness required. No single method can be considered ideal for all situations. In many cases, a combination of two or more methods will be used to achieve a dry pipeline at the least cost. One important thing should be considered is the acceptance criteria of each method, which will be defined and agreed prior to the activity for the fitness for purpose of the pipeline to get the client's satisfaction.

The first three methods are probably the most economical and technically feasible for most pipeline drying applications.

· SUPER DRY AIR DRYING

In this method, series of pigs are run along the pipeline; the first one will be soft foam pigs pushed by a super dry air (with a dew point of -90 deg.F) are used to absorb any free water remaining after dewatering. Then wire brush pigs are run to remove any water bearing debris from the inner wall of the pipeline, and then followed by soft foam pigs to absorb the loosened debris. The acceptance criteria shall be defined based upon the evaluation of the pigs’ weight (prior vs after run), the pig color-which will give some indication of how the debris removal is proceeding, and the dew-point readings to determine when the pipeline has been dried to the specified dew point.

· METHANOL DRYING

In this method, any remaining moisture in the pipeline will be absorbed by batches of methanol (which has hygroscopic effect) pushed through the line with gas or dry air. Pigs are used to separate the methanol batches from the displacing medium. The length of pipeline that can be dried by this method is only limited by the capabilities of the pigs. So far, one of the longest pipelines in the world was dried using this method. The acceptance criteria shall be defined based upon the weight of methanol in the last slug.

· INERT GAS/NITROGEN DRYING

This method is performed in much the same manner as when using Super Dry Air method with the using of nitrogen as an inert purge gas. Two advantages of using this method are that it will be very dry and therefore have a high capacity for water adsorption and also that it is inert and can be used to prepare pipelines which will later contain explosive or flammable gases. The acceptance criteria shall be defined based upon the indication of the significant reduction of the outlet air dew point from its starting value.

· DRYING WITH THE MEDIUM TO BE TRANSPORTED

This method will only be used for a natural gas (which is also the gas to be transported during operation) and requires large volume of gas. This method is slow and not very effective unless the line is thoroughly cleaned by proper cleaning processes. If, however, the gas being used to dry with can be blended with another dry gas stream and sold or used, then this is an economical practice. The acceptance criteria shall be defined based upon the indication of the significant reduction of the outlet air dew point from its starting value.

· VACUUM DRYING

This method is relies on the fact that the boiling point of water varies with pressure, so by reducing the pressure down to the saturated vapor pressure (svp) for the ambient temperature, we can cause the water to ‘boil’ and remove it from the pipeline as a gas with a vacuum pump. This is a slow process and all free water should be removed from the pipeline before drying begins. This method will usually produce a pipeline dry enough for natural gas operations. The acceptance criteria shall be defined based upon the humidity level in the outlet that will reduce rapidly as a stable vacuum level is formed. There will be a period where the dew point level stabilizes as residual liquid water is evaporated and extracted. When all the water has been removed, the dew point will drop again and this signals the end of the vacuum drying process.

References:
1. Pipeline Pigging Technology - 2nd Edition - JNH Tiratso (Editor), 1992
2. Evaluation of Pipeline Drying Techniques - Andrew J. Barden & co. - Pipeline Pigging Conference, Jakarta 1996
3. Pipe Line Rules of Thumbs Handbook - 4th Edition - E.W. McAllister (Editor), 1998
4. Blogger's field experience.

QUALITY OF PIPING TIE-INS

2011-04-01T17:18:00.007+07:00

Introduction from Blogger:

In piping system works, tie-in is one of the most important activity which should be tightly controlled by the Quality team. This activity should be controlled with an appropriate Inspection and Test Plan that clearly defines the method, proecedure, standard and the role of each party involved in the activity. This article was written based on the experience of Onny Hendra, Senior Piping & Welding Engineer with CSWIP 3.1 and ASNT Level II qualification and has worked for more than 3 years at Saudi Aramco project at Saudi Arabia out of his 11 years working experience in oil and gas industry.

General information for piping Tie-ins

Piping tie-in is an activity to associate to separate piping system altogether becomes an integrated system. Since this activity is one of critical stages in a piping or pipelines project. In other perspective, piping tie-in is making a new connection between existing line to new line during plant expansion. The location where the new connection will be built on an existing plant is called a tie-in point. Tie in point could be either a valve and or a pipe spool.

Piping tie-ins are unavoidable in plants where expansion is a current or future factor. Steam, condensate, compressed air, fuel gas, vacuum and others process lines are just a few types of plant piping likely to be modified by tie-ins to increase capacity.

The types of connection of tie in are normally with flange connection or threaded connection or Welding connection or combination of them.

Type of Tie-in

There are some types of tie-in.

1. Existing point type.

These are only installing the new piping spool on the existing point that has already provided. Type of connection is normally by flanges or threaded connection. (Easiest type)

Advantages: easiest connection because only flange joint connection so need less material, cost, time, method, worker for installation and not necessary to do hydrotest or RT on field.

Disadvantages: This tie in location is fixed so cannot be changed or moved.

2. Line Isolation Type.

This type is used to install a new piping spool and isolation valve on the existing line. But before the installation, isolation activity shall be performed using existing isolation valve on an existing line where tie in point will be built. Type of connection is normally by flange connection or threaded connection and welding connection or combination of them.

Advantages: 1) The tie in location can be installed as per our desired, 2) Existing Plan no need to be shutdown.

Disadvantages: Need more material, time, worker, safety, equipment, method and inspection/test to be provided on field, UT thickness measurement before cut the existing line.

3. Shut Down type.

This type is used to install a new piping spool and isolation valve or others on the existing line when the plant was shutdown. Type of connection is normally by flange connection or threaded connection and welding connection or combination of them.

Advantages: The tie in location can be installed as per our desired.

Disadvantages: 1) Need more material, time, worker, safety, equipment, method and inspection/test to be provided on field. 2) Working time is limited to counter the shutdown time.

4. Hot Tapping Type.

This type is used to install a new piping spool and isolation valve on the existing line when the line still lives (running). Type of connection is normally by flange connection and welding connection (branch/sticker connection). (Most difficult and dangerous type)

Advantages: 1) Tie in location can be installed as per our desired, 2) Existing Plan no need to be shutdown and no need to be isolated.

Disadvantages: 1) Need more material, time, worker, safety, equipment, method and inspection/test to be provided on field more than other tie-in type. 2) Most dangerous type because of there is welding activity on lives line, UT thickness measurement before cut the existing line.

On Tie in Activity, Tie in joint also called as Golden joint, which means that we need to give more attention or more care about this joint regarding the quality of joints. That’s why the joint shall be 100 % NDT, RT for Butt joint and PT or MT for other than butt joint (depend on material used), and then to be tested by performing pressure test according to the relevant/applicable code/requirement.

QUALITY LIFE WITH QUALITY MINDSET

2011-03-24T16:38:00.009+07:00

March 24th Dawn in Sanaa City - Yemen

Amid the raging of conflicts and wars in the Middle East countries, finally I left Middle East to return to my home country. Flew by Emirates Airlines from Sana’a, Yemen (which since last couple days was told on the verge of Civil War) to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and then after stay overnight will be leaving Middle East toward Jakarta….... A quite long journey, but it is quite short when I again reflect on the present conflicts, and realize what an infirm and frail world we live in……. Started from a small country such as Tunisia, the "wind of change" or “reformation spirit” has been so fast infected to other neighboring Middle East and Arab countries, and it has been rolling bigger and bigger like a snow ball, Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Libya, Bahrain, Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Syria, and… where else….
Regardless of “who is wrong and who is right: and “who oppresses whom”, every conflict should be reviewed with clarity in mind. I remembered what C.S Lewis says: “Of all tyrannies, a tyranny exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It may be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end, for they do so with the approval of their own conscience”, and then also the legendary Russian writer/novelist, Leo Tolstoy: “War is so unjust and ugly that all who wage it must try to stifle the voice of conscience within themselves”. These two quotes referred a same word: “conscience”. And I think, maybe those present conflicts and tensions occurred due to conscience problems. Should every conflicted party again tries to let the purest consciences speak to their own heart, and acknowledges the shortcomings and weaknesses of themselves and others, without demanding each other. And again, Leo Tolstoy is true, while he said: “Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself”. Pondering all these things, ultimately I have been illuminated by Tolstoy’s wisdom says:”Joy can be real only if people look upon their life as a service, and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness”. What a quality life we'll have with such mindset!

METHOD STATEMENT IN QUALITY PERSPECTIVE

2011-03-18T02:05:00.010+07:00

Method Statement is one of the most important document required in a construction phase of a project. Contractors or Construction teams are being instructed by the clients to produce Method Statements as part of the contractual agreement requirements requiring submission to the client for approval prior to the commencement of the work. Most of the client’s reasons to get the contractors providing their Method Statements are due to Health and Safety reason. By utilizing Method Statement, mostly Clients will be focusing to control and monitor the health and safety issue, such as working at heights, working in a trench, hot work area (welding, cutting, etc) and other potential hazardous environment.

DEFINITION

A Method Statement is a document detailing how a particular process will be carried out. Such as statement is commonly used to describe how construction works can be carried out safely, with the detail possible dangers/risks associated with the project and the control method of the work. Method Statements are always site specific, at which the statement shall be compatible to the work, the workers (executors), tools and equipments, materials to be installed and work environment, to ensure that all concerned are aware of the hazards associated with the work and the safety precautions that need to be taken. Therefore, a Risk Assessment or Job Safety Analysis shall be provided as a part of a method statement.

METHOD STATEMENT IN QUALITY PERSPECTIVE

With Onny Hendra, one of my
Welding Inspectors in Saudi Arabia

As described in the above definition, Method Statements are usually utilized for Health and Safety purpose in the construction process. On the other hand, my experience as well as my observation says that Method Statement also could be utilized for Quality purpose, at which a quality controller will be able to control the conformance of the process in his quality perspective. Apparently, very few people in project team are aware of this. Together with the Inspection and Test Plan (ITP), the Method Statement will be hand in hand to achieve a qualified work and qualified product.

These are some aspects which normally as parts of a Method Statement could be utilized to control the quality during construction:

1. Working system to be used; quality controller will be able to check whether the working system comply with the acceptable and approved working standard or not.

2. Materials required; quality controller will be able to check whether the materials are the correct one or not. Furthermore, the material should comply with the other common quality requirements such as: material certificate availability and traceability.

3. Equipments or tools to be used; some equipments and tools need to be inspected prior and during the work execution. An equipment or tool that working properly will guarantee a good result.

4. Training requirement; all worker/executor/operator shall be suitably competent and hold the relevant training skill. For example, in all welding activities, one of a duty of a welding inspector is to control the welder’s competency by checking his Welder Identification Card (which is the evidence that he is well trained and passed the Welder Qualification). In quality perspective, the welder competency is the part of quality assurance system to get qualified welds.

5. Fall Protection; in quality control perspective, a worker will not be able to working properly to get a good quality, if he has to work in a risky and dangerous environment (in this case is working at height). A proper scaffolding, railings and full body harness will let him feel comfortable to work, and in turn will provide a good work quality.

6. Health Protection arrangements; similar to no.4, an unfit worker will not be able to provide a good work quality.

Normally, Method Statements must be written or prepared by a competent person familiar with the work process, health and safety control measures and the requirements of a method statement. In this case, the QA/QC team has to play its role during development stage of a method statement, so the Method Statement will be ensuring a good quality as well as a healthy and safe work.

We all want progress, but if you're on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive (C. S. Lewis)

INSPECTION AND TEST PLAN (ITP) ROLE IN PROJECT QUALITY ASSURANCE

2011-02-26T18:58:00.009+07:00

Inspection and Test Plan (hereafter called as: ITP) is one of the tool of Quality Assurance program in which the detail description of the Quality Control activities are performed (by the field/site quality person such as field engineers and inspectors) in accordance with the planned and defined quality standard and requirements. In other words, ITP functions as “a bridge” between the Quality Assurance and Quality Control. The inspection and test activity described in the ITP will cover the activities before, during and after the process of the product realization (i.e.: manufacturing, fabrication, construction, installation), to ensure that the quality level of the product is within the acceptable design standards and requirements.

Main elements shall be defined and stated in ITP (as a minimum requirement):

PROCESS DESCRIPTION - to describe the process to be inspected/tested;

Example: - Material Receiving

- Welding

ACTIVITY – to describe the more detail activity under the process described;

Example:

- under Material Receiving: Check material certificate

- under Material Receiving: Visual & Dimensional Check

- under Welding: Check welding electrode

- under Welding: Check Fit-Up Joint

PROCEDURE – applicable procedure to perform the activity. It would be a common standard/code or project/company’s procedure.
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA - Specified indicators or measures at which the product has to meet.
FREQUENCY – the oftenest, or the rate of repetition of a cyclical or regular event of inspection. It will be in Percentage (%) or per Heat/Batch or any numbers of inspection/check required as per standard.

INSPECTION INVOLVEMENT LEVEL – defines the level of inspection shall be performed by all parties involved in the project. The parties maybe consist of: SUPPLIER, CONTRACTOR, THIRD PARTY and CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY.

The Inspection Level in the ITP :

o Spot Witness: an activity during manufacturing, fabrication or construction where witnessing of work or inspection normally takes places without any formal written notification, although oral or informal memo will normally be given. If the inspector does not inspect the work at this point, the work may continue. However the inspection result must be recorded. In any cases, the CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY or his/her designate or the appointed THIRD PARTY shall have the right to inspect any works done by SUPPLIER/CONTRACTOR at any time.

o Witness: an activity during manufacturing, fabrication or construction, where the inspection and measurement or tests must be done in place and documented. Prior to the inspection, measurement or test; SUPPLIER/CONTRACTOR is required to notify the CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY or his/her designate or the appointed THIRD PARTY who normally will attend the inspection. In case the CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY could not attend the inspection/test, the inspection may proceed; however the inspection result must be recorded and submitted for review and approval.

o Hold point: an activity during manufacturing, fabrication or construction, where the inspection, measurement, or test must be done in place with mandatory attendance by CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY or his/her designate or the appointed THIRD PARTY. SUPPLIER/CONTRACTOR cannot proceed with the next work step activity until the inspection, measurement or test has been witnessed and approved by all attending parties. Prior to the inspection, measurement or test; SUPPLIER/CONTRACTOR is required to notify the CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY or his/her designate or the appointed THIRD PARTY who normally will attend the inspection. After the inspection/test, the inspection result must be recorded and submitted for review and approval.

o Review or Approval: review or approval to the documentation or record of the inspection/test/measurement had performed.

Sample of ITP
(click at the picture to magnify)

In common practice, Inspection and Test Plan has to be submitted by SUPPLIER and/or CONTRACTOR to the CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY which will review and approve it prior to the commencement of the work. The approval from the CUSTOMER/CLIENT/COMPANY is mandatory to ensure that the product will be performed in accordance with the project standard, specification and requirements. This is the main role of Inspection and Test Plan in the quality assurance management of the product realization.

WORKING AND LIVING IN GULF COUNTRIES

2011-02-18T20:14:00.019+07:00

Working and living in Gulf countries, for some people, is something that highly coveted - even though currently, the political situation is heating up - working in Gulf countries remains one of the most favorite choice. For many western citizens, working in Gulf countries bring many benefits, mainly due to income tax issues, whereas the worker income is not taxable and the living expenses are much cheaper than western countries. For Asian citizen, working in Gulf countries bring many benefits, not only due to income tax issues, but also due to the high standard salary that goes far beyond the standard salary in their home-country. But, how is the living expenses standard for Asian citizens (i.e. Indonesian, Indian, Pakistan, Filipino, etc. ?)

Firstly, let us review the latest salary scheme in Gulf countries and then we step forward to the review of the living expenses.

SALARY SCHEME IN GULF COUNTRIES

Salary increases in the Persian Gulf region were higher than the rates of inflation in 2010, resulting in improving living standards for many, according to Employment and Salary Trends in the Gulf 2010-2011 (by GulfTalent). The survey of 32,000 professionals and 1,400 companies across the six Persian Gulf states by recruitment firm GulfTalent.com found private sector salaries increased by an average of 6.1 % in 2010 and are projected to increase by 6.6 % in 2011.Among countries, Qatar and Saudi Arabia had the highest pay rises in 2010 at 6.8 % and 6.7 % respectively. Oman was in third place with 6.4 %, followed by Kuwait at 5.7 %. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain saw the smallest increases at 5.2 % and 4.9 % respectively, according to the survey of. The Gulf's employment market is expected to continue growing at a moderate pace, aided by global economic recovery, rising oil prices and continued government spending on infrastructure projects.

Mobility and the rise of Qatar

According to GulfTalent’s study, there is a rising prominence of Qatar as a destination for professionals. The trend has been driven by fast-rising salaries, falling cost of living, growing employment opportunities and an improving international brand, which came to a grand finale with the country’s surprise qualification to host the 2022 Football World Cup. Based on an analysis of vacancies advertised by employers and recruitment agencies on GulfTalent's website, job opportunities in Qatar have grown from 8% of all GCC vacancies in 2008 to 16% in 2010!

GulfTalent's survey of mobility intentions found that, while the UAE remains the most attractive destination for professionals, favoured by 49% of GCC-based expatriates, Qatar is closing in fast, with a 44% following. Based on current trends, Qatar could become the Gulf’s most popular destination for expatriates. Meanwhile, employers across the region continued to tap into the talent pool in Dubai, the study said. In addition to professionals who had relocated from Dubai since the onset of the crisis, an estimated 5% of Dubai’s residents now commute daily to their jobs in Abu Dhabi, a five-fold increase since 2008.

A similar trend was found in Bahrain, where 2% of residents cross the border each day to Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, the home to the country’s oil and petrochemical industries, up from 1% in 2008. Despite outflows resulting from job cuts, the UAE remained far ahead of all other Gulf countries in terms of popularity with its current residents, thanks to its superior infrastructure. 72% of UAE residents prefer to remain there, compared to 59% in Kuwait and 50% in Qatar.

Impact of Middle East turmoil

Potential turmoil and unrest situation in the wider Middle East region, most recently in Tunisia and Egypt, and then, it could be in Bahrain, Yemen and Libya (which is a North Africa country, but sometime considered as Arab country) could have a mixed impact on the availability of talent in the Gulf during 2011.

Any sustained upheavals could increase the supply of Arab professionals from regional hotspots who will seek careers in the Gulf, putting downward pressure on salaries, a study said, citing the experience of the 2006 conflict in Lebanon which resulted in a mass migration of Lebanese professionals to the Gulf.

The report adds that “the resulting coverage of the region in international media may deter some Western professionals from relocating to the Gulf”, similar to the trend seen in 2003 in the immediate aftermath of the Iraq war.

LIVING EXPENSES IN GULF COUNTRIES

Overall, Abu Dhabi is the most expensive city in the Gulf region, mainly due to its high residential rents, and some cities in Saudi Arabia (i.e. Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam) are the lowest ones, together with Sana’a and Aden in Yemen.

I got some inquiries, asked about a rough description of living cost / expenses in gulf countries. Here are some information were collected from some sources, which assume:

Family status, with 2 children (under 18 years old)
Lifestyle : normal lifestyle, as one who has good faith
Applicable to Abu Dhabi. For Dubai, Doha (Qatar) Manama (Bahrain), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Muscat (Oman), Sana’a (Yemen), etc, are normally below than the first mentioned city.
Note : 1 AED (UAE Dirhams) = 0.9922 QAR (Qatari Riyal) = 1.022 SAR (Saudi Riyal) = 0.2722 USD (US Dollar) – APPROX.
This below list is describing the average amount

House Rent (2 Bed Rooms)	AED 100,000 – 140,000/year
House furnishing	AED 35,000 (standard facility such as: kitchen, spring beds, 32”LCD TV + Satellite Dish, Sofas and other amenities)
Education *(For more detail click this link: School in Dubai & Abu Dhabi)*	AED 14,500(Grade 1) ~ AED 25,600 (Grade 12) per Year in tuition (period 2009-2010 of International School standard) Bus transport fees within Abu Dhabi city AED 1500 one way, or AED 3000 return
Food	AED 3000/month
Car Rental	AED 3,500/month (1.8L, fully automatic, Toyota)
Petrol	AED 800/month
Telephone / mobile	AED 500/month
Internet	AED 200/month
Electricity + Water	AED 800/month (summer); AED 450/month (winter)
House maid (2hrs a day)	AED 800/month

GulfTalent describes the Apartment rental and Fuel cost in this region as below:

All these things have to be considered carefully, while an employer give an offer. Some employers provide family status, and some other provide single status. Both options have to be reviewed carefully which one is suitable for ourself and family.

Finally: money, richness and well being are not something that should be our highest achievement; the ultimate achievement is not on what's in this world, because our life in this world is only the preparation for eternity...

DEVELOPING QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN

2011-01-21T16:25:00.003+07:00

Quality Assurance Plan is one of the most important aspect in the successful implementation of any quality system within the organization. Hence, it is very essential that this plan be chalked out properly. The development of quality plan begins with the formation of a team that will work on developing it. A number of key professional persons from various departments work along with the quality department lead in order to develop this plan.

Here are the steps:

1. Decide the objective of the project for which the Project Quality Plan is being chalked out. This includes the results of the project that is anticipated, the quality goals to be achieved while executing the project and other goals and objectives that are specific to the nature of the project or the organization. All plans for assuring quality should be developed in such a way so that all the legal, technical and other regulatory requirements of the Client are met.

2. Determine all the processes required for accomplishing the project successfully. There are various methods, techniques, and tools used by the team to anticipate the various problems that can occur during the project which can affect its performance. The previous experience also aids the professionals in identifying the problems that can possibly occur.

3. Involves planning the quality assurance activities in order to assure the good quality of the deliverables. This step encompasses planning for a wide range of activities. The quality assurance plan should clearly explain all the kinds of inspections and testing that should be conducted at the various stages of the project. The frequency of these inspections and testing and when they should be performed is also stated in the plan. The detailed timetable for all audits i.e. internal and external audits should be prepared. The standards that should be followed for the various quality control activities are also given in this plan. The plan should include the minutest details like how to select samples, what should be the sample size and which actions should be taken depending on the results of the inspections, testing and audits. The personnel and teams who will be responsible for the different quality planning and quality control activities are decided and this too is included in the plan.

4. Plan for the resources required in successfully implementing the quality assurance plan . The resource requirement should include any new test equipment required to conduct some tests as per customer requirements or to help in reducing the testing time or to reduce the manpower efforts. The human resources required should also be planned. This is an important step since any plan cannot be successfully implemented without the availability of adequate resources.

Once the Quality Assurance Plan has been developed, it is necessary to circulate it to the management and the other concerned personals for review. After receiving the feedback, the team members should discuss the amendments to be made to the plan, if any. After discussions, the final decision is taken. The final plan is thus developed after incorporating the decided changes. Before releasing this plan, it is necessary to take the approval of the top management. It is then published and released to all the concerned people like key personnel, quality monitoring and quality control department, customers etc. It is the responsibility of the head of quality department to check that the Quality Assurance Plan is followed by the organization.

RE-INTERPRET THE MEANING OF NEW YEAR

2010-12-31T16:41:00.010+07:00

From Article By: Abdul Munir Sara - his Article in Detikcom: Menafsir Ulang Arti Tahun Baru.

Jakarta - One day again we enter the new year. Years not only signifies the turn of the time but also requires some hope. Whereas, later entered the year 2011 we can feel the changes that mean in our country called Indonesia. Hope of change will struggling among the list of moments which has been draining either pumping our emotion.

Two or three months before entering in year 2011, this country was made to cry. Disaster has been arriving. Disaster came like a rain, swallow up people's life and properties. Starting from the natural disasters of floods, tsunamis, eruptions trim, abuse of migrant workers (TKI) that would not go over, and a number of legal cases that never completely disclosed.

Almost every time we've been made angry and upset in the front of the screen (TV).Whereas, how this country screwed up by behavior and morality muddy. In fact, we have so many leaders, religious leader and clerics, and the intellectuals. But, long lines so their presence did not mean loosening its stuffy and stifling the people against the government officials behaviour who has been increasingly dark eyes and dark hearts.

Corruption become an endemic. Tak satu pun celah birokrasi yang hampa perilaku koruptif. Mereka bertaburan. Bak semut mengerubungi gula. Dari meja sekolah dasar (SD) hingga perguruan tinggi (PT) orang bertanya. Apa gerangan yang menyebabkan pemerintah kita sedemikian korup? Meski ada tersisah sekelompok orang baik-baik. Tapi, lebur kebegalan laku itu telah merata di setiap ruang sosial dan birokrasi pemerintahan. Nalar korupsi mencekoki kita. Dari RT (Rukun Tetangga) hingga di sekitar lingkungan Istana Presiden.

Tak kunjung usai membanjirnya perilaku amoral koruptif serasa Tuhan menegur kita dengan setumpuk bencana. Kita begitu tersentak bahwa tanpa tanggung-tanggung Tuhan langsung menegur kita secara vulgar.

Hal itu berasa. Bahwa belum usai sekian ragam kenistaan bencana langsung menyergap. Ibarat musibah yang menimpa kaum-kaum terdahulu yang ingkar pada guru moralnya (nabi). Lalu apa kita pernah sadar akan hal ini?

Bahwa perilaku dosa dan gejolak alam adalah dua hal yang saling menandai (designate). Atau sederhananya teguran dan peringatan. Inilah refleksi tahun baru.

Arti Baru

Yang membuat pergantian tahun baru itu menarik adalah ada kata "baru". Sesiapa pun menggandrungi hal ini. Anak kecil, orang dewasa, kakek atau nenek jompo, hingga orang gila. Bila dikasih sesuatu yang baru semuanya senang. Begitulah hakekat dasar manusia. Bila disuruh memilih hal yang lama dan yang baru pasti langsung memilih yang baru. Namun, soalnya adalah terkadang kita kabur-air mensubstansiasikan "arti baru".

Karena tahun baru itu semua orang bersuka cita. Turun ke jalan, karnaval, dan membuat komitmen akan perubahan di tahun yang baru dengan cara yang ragam dan aneh-aneh. Mulai dari muhasabah (evaluasi diri) hingga ekspresi kesenangan dengan pesta dan mabuk-mabukan. Yang menarik adalah jika semua orang menafsirkan arti baru itu serupa dengan perubahan. Bahwa perubahan waktu bukanlah pergantian waktu secara material an sich. Tapi, pergantian waktu sebenarnya berporos pada aspek mikro kosmik manusia.

Jalaludin Rumi mengartikan rotasi atau siklus waktu sesngguhnya berporos pada inti kesadaran manusia. Maka di sini perubahan bermakna transformasi kesadaran sifat dan laku manusia. Dari sifat lama yang buruk ke sikap baru yang lebih hanif. Meminjam istilah Dr Abdul Munir Mulkan disebutnya sebagai proses trans-human. Atau gerak kesadaran dari manusia lama yang bobrok ke manusia baru yang lebih ilahi.

Jika perubahan itu adalah suatu yang berpindah dari titik 0 ke titik n maka demikian pun manusia, dalam kaitannya dengan perubahan mikro kosmis, perubahan mengandung arti perubahan sikap lama (yang buruk) menuju sikap baru (yang hanif) dan seterusnya menuju kearifan puncak manusia. Di sinilah kita semestinya membenam dan mencelupkan diri dalam arti baru yang sesungguhnya.

Yang terjadi selama ini kita cenderung menjadikan waktu sebagai objek yang disukuri. Padahal, waktu cumalah tanda (sign). Rasa sukur mestinya ditujukan pada realitas puncak dari waktu atau yang menciptakan waktu. Akibat persepsi yang keliru inilah terkadang kesukuran terhadap waktu atau semisal "tahun baru" diisi dengan perilaku yang hedon dan terkadang berlebihan.

Dengan pengertian di atas maka sejatinya kita tidak pantas mengisi tahun baru dengan berhura-hura dan perilaku reaktif yang hedon. Bagi seorang yang religius dia semestinya sadar. Bahwa, pergantian waktu membuat jaraknya dengan kematian semakin dekat. Dengan demikian amalan akhiratnya perlu diperpadat sejak dini. Demikian pun bagi seorang pengusaha, pelajar, pejabat, dan kelompok manusia lainnya. Meski bertambah peka bahwa ke depan banyak tantangan yang terbentang di depan mata. Yang bisa kita lakukan adalah pemperkuat perubahan dengan vitalitas yang baru.

Abdul Munir Sara

Social & Education Observer - Jakarta

QUALITY MOMENTS WITH FAMILY

2010-12-28T19:03:00.021+07:00

Valuable moments and Quality moments for a wanderer....
after separated by time and distance,
the moments has come again,
bury all nostalgia while separated one another
really, this is a blessing from God
for having quality moments with family

SHARPEN THE SAW

2010-12-10T15:20:00.018+07:00

Colder days in Sana'a in the beginning of December. Even it reached 0 degree in the morning. This will be the sign that the winter has come. And for me, this is the sign for taking my leave and come back to my home-country, Indonesia, to meet my family, having vacation and recreation. Stephen Covey is truly right in one of his best seller book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, point No-7 about Sharpen the Saw: the balancing and renewal of your resources, energy, and health to create a sustainable long-term effective lifestyle..... Like a lumberjack, how busy is he, he has to spare his time to sharpen his saw, to get more effective job.
Moreover, when my white hair has more and more in the over 40 years old........and then I remember this wisdom :

Menjadi tua adalah kepastian, tetapi menjadi dewasa adalah pilihan.

(growing old is a certainty but to be mature is a choice)

Sediakanlah waktu untuk….
(provide yourself to....)
Berpikir, karena itulah sumber kekuatan
(think, because it is the source of power)

Bermain, itulah rahasia awet muda
(play, that is the secret to be ageless)

Membaca, menjadi landasan kebijaksanaan
(read, that is the basis of wisdom)

Berteman, jalan menuju kebahagiaan
(make friend, way to happiness)

Bermimpi, itulah yang akan membawa anda ke bintang
(dream, which brings you to the star)

Mencintai dan dicintai, itulah hak istimewa dari Tuhan
(love and beloved, privilege from God)
Dan sediakan waktu untuk tertawa, karena itulah musik jiwa.

(and provide your time for laughing, because it is the music of the soul)

CHECKING PROCEDURE AND QUALITY ASSURANCE

2010-11-12T13:44:00.008+07:00

In engineering and design activity, one of the main roles for a Quality Engineer is to ensure that all the engineering, design and drafting processes are performed properly to obtain comprehensive design products which comply with the Client requirement. To be fit for the purpose of the Client is the "core business" for the Quality man, and this shold be ensured by the correct management system during the engineering activities. The first thing to do is to ensure that all drawings and documents have been checked prior to issue. Each person shall check their own work before passing it on to a person of higher level or seniority and experience.

Drafting Check

Have the drawing standards been followed?
Are the drawing title, revisions, references, scales etc correct?
Are key plan and north arrow shown? (note: whenever applicable)
Is the drawing dimensionally correct? (note: whenever applicable)
Are math lines or sheet continuation numbers shown?
Are mark ups properly applied?

Design Check

· Does the design meet the project design criteria as specified in the Project Design Basis or similar documents?

· Is the design suitable and practical for the use intended?

· Does the design permit construction within the allocated budget?

· Does the design comply with all specific Client requirements?

· Does the design meet applicable codes and regulations?

· Does the design meet “constructability”, i.e.: can be fabricated/constructed/installed/serviced as shown on drawing?

Discipline Check

Have the formal specific design criteria or terms of reference for the particular job been prepared?
Is the design suitable and practical for the use intended?
Does the design permit construction with reasonable budget/economy?
Does the design comply with all specific Client requirements?

Inter Discipline Review/Check (IDC)

Inter-discipline check/review is performed to ensure the comprehensiveness, completeness and accuracy of technical content of a document/deliverable. The IDC shall be performed while the other disciplines provide their comments for correcting any anomalies and/or enhancing the quality of the document. All related Lead Discipline Engineer (or Senior Engineer) shall be involved in the IDC, and if required, may give their comment(s) which related to their discipline-view. The QA/QC Manager will be responsible to monitor and control the IDC processes are performed adequately. The Project Document Controller will be responsible to ensure that all the IDC sheets are properly recorded. All original IDC records shall be kept by Document Controller and documented properly in the project documentation system.

These items shall be checked as a minimum requirements:

Have the drawings or documents been checked one against the other to eliminate conflicts?
Have the systems or equipment being furnished for the project meet the design criteria set for the project (as defined in the Design Basis) and are they in conformance with the project requirements and standards?
Has proper provision been made on the drawings to receive the work of other design sections, such as the required holes in the floor for piping, framed openings for cable tray, curb openings for panels, etc.?
Have the materials of construction been properly reviewed for prevailing site conditions?

YEMEN, THE SLEEPING TOURISM COUNTRY

2010-10-22T19:07:00.020+07:00

Yemen ternyata merupakan negeri yang bukan saja memiliki kekayaan oil and gas yang belum dimanfaatkan secara optimal, tetapi juga memiliki banyak kekayaan alam yang merupakan obyek pariwisata/turisme yang menarik dan menakjubkan. Salah satu contoh adalah Dar al-Hajar, suatu bangunan ber-arsitektur khas Yemen yang berdiri di atas batu cadas yang menjulang, membuat bangunan itu sendiri pun tampak semakin menjulang pula (gambar di samping). Di lokasi Old City (Old Sana'a) dan juga di beberapa bangunan di kota Sana'a pada umumnya, ciri bangunan seperti itu pun tampak begitu semarak dengan desain khas kusen/list jendela dan lubang anginnya yang disebut: Qamariya. Keindahan Qamariya ini begitu unik, karena terdiri dari kepingan-kepingan kaca warna-warni yang geometris bentuknya.

Qamariya ini mengingatkan ku akan kaca patri yang banyak juga ditemui di negara kita, tetapi Qamariya ini beda, karena bukan saja terdiri dari kepingan-kepingan kaca warna-warni, tetapi juga dipadu dengan ukiran kayu yang biasanya berwarna putih, yang membuat Qamariya ini begitu indah ketika terpasang di gedung atau bangunan. Apalagi apabila sinar matahari menembus kepingan-kepingan kaca warna-warni tersebut, wow betapa indahnya. Foto di samping adalah Qamariya yang terpasang di bagian kubah tengah gedung kantor tempat aku bekerja. Ada lagi obyek wisata yang sebenarnya tidak ada bandingannya di dunia, tapi belum banyak di kenal orang, yaitu Socotra Island. Socotra tempat paling aneh sekaligus paling unik di dunia. Nyaris semua yang ada di sana terlihat aneh, mulai dari bentuk pohon maupun lingkungannya, tak heran banyak yang menyebut Socotra yang berada di Republik Yemen sebagai salah satu sarang alien di dunia.

Tempatnya sangat terisolir, iklim sangat kering, lain daripada yang lain. Keanehan ini bisa jadi menyebabkan kehidupan tanaman maupun benda apapun di sana tumbuh dengan aneh. Sebut saja tanaman terkenal seperti Dragon's Blood Tree yang aneh, bentuknya sangat tidak umum, terlihat mirip payung. Pohon ini memproduksi getah berwarna merah.

Di sana juga ada binatang binatang asli yang sangat unik, seperti kadal, laba-laba, burung dan binatang asli lainnya. Belum lagi bebatuan juga karang, yang bentuknya tidak umum dan hanya ada di pulau itu. Dengan segala keanehan isi pulau itu, tak heran kalau Socotra, pulau yang berada di Arabian Sea, masuk dalam Warisan Peninggalan Dunia. Masih banyak keunikan-keunikan negri Yemen ini yang sebenarnya dapat menjadi daya tarik turisme, tetapi memang pemerintah dan bangsa Yemen masih bergulat dengan banyak masalah dan konflik yang melanda negeri yang baru saja bersatu/ber-unifikasi dari Yemen Utara dan Yemen Selatan pada tahun 1990 ini. Yang pertama adalah masalah terorisme, dimana beberapa wilayah Yemen menjadi tempat "sarang" jaringan Al-Qaeda (sekarang dikenal sebagai AQAP: Al-Qaeda in Arab Peninsula) sejak peristiwa 911 WTC lalu (catatan: konon nenek moyang Osama bin Laden, sang bos Al-Qaeda adalah orang Yemen), juga isu pemberontakan di utara maupun di selatan, masalah korupsi, serta kekuasaan penguasa (presiden) yang sudah terlalu lama (lebih dari 30 tahun) yang membuat isu korupsi-kolusi-nepotisme begitu kental di kalangan rakyat Yemen sementara separuh lebih rakyat hidup di bawah garis kemiskinan. Yang aneh, Yemen yang populasi penduduknya sekitar 23 juta jiwa saja, separuh dari jumlah tersebut memiliki senjata api! Ngeri juga ya! Namun, bila setumpuk masalah dan konflik itu dapat segera teratasi, niscaya Yemen dapat menjadi salah satu daya tarik para turis yang ingin berlibur ke Middle East selain yang sudah dikenal sekarang seperti Dubai.

Selain karena kekayaan obyek turisme nya, Yemen juga memang cocok sebagai tempat berlibur karena penduduknya yang ramah, sangat ramah jika dibandingkan dengan penduduk Arab Saudi, Qatar atau Abu Dhabi misalnya, yang biasanya tertutup terhadap pendatang luar dan segan berkomunikasi.

Berpose bersama Ahmed, supir saya yang
juga merupakan anggota tentara Yemen

Walaupun kebanyakan pria-pria Yemen selalu membawa Jambiya (semacam golok khas Yemen) yang diselipkan di perutnya, tetapi mereka tidak nampak seram atau angker, macam preman-preman di Jakarta. Dan memang Jambiya itu bukan untuk digunakan melakukan kejahatan, tetapi memang merupakan "traditional fashion" para Yemeni tersebut. Tetapi sayang, keramah-tamahan para Yemeni ini masih kurang diimbangi dengan kemampuan mereka dalam berkomunikasi dalam bahasa Inggris sebagai bahasa internasional, yang sangat dibutuhkan untuk dapat berkomunikasi dengan para turis mancanegara ataupun para expatriate yang bekerja di Yemen.

Ada kisah menarik yang sangat masyur di legenda rakyat Yemen, tentang Ratu Negeri Syeba yang kisahnya juga terdapat di Alkitab Perjanjian Lama, Al-Quran, bahkan kisah sejarah tradisi Ethiopia dan Habeshan. Negeri Syeba ini, menurut sejarah, berdiri sejak akhir tahun 2000 BC (Sebelum Masehi) sampai abad ke-3 Masehi. Kerajaan ini meliputi Yemen (di Arab Peninsula), Ethiopia dan Eretreia (di benua Afrika). Kisah yang terkenal dari Ratu Syeba ini adalah ketika ia mengunjungi Raja Salomo (Sulaiman) dengan membawa banyak benda-benda berharga yang dihadiahkan kepada Raja Salomo. Konon, Ratu Syeba ini membawa 4,5 ton emas, rempah-rempah, batu-batu berharga, wangi-wangian (perfumes) dan juga 30 keping perak.
Pada pertemuannya dengan Raja Salomo, Ratu Syeba ini begitu takjub dengan hikmat bijaksana Salomo dalam memecahkan perkara-perkara sulit di tengah-tengah rakyat Israel pada zaman itu (Ah, seandainya ada seorang Salomo saja di KPK atau Kejaksaan Agung atau Mahkamah Agung negeri kita.....). Suatu saat Ratu Syeba membawa ke hadapan Salomo, 20 orang anak-anak, laki-laki dan perempuan dengan pakaian yang sama persis, dan meminta Raja Salomo untuk memisahkan mana anak laki-laki dan mana perempuan. Salomo kemudian menyuruh semua anak-anak itu membasuh/mencuci tangan mereka. Anak laki-laki mencuci/membasuh tangan mereka dengan cepat, tetapi anak perempuan mencuci tangan lebih lama daripada anak laki-laki............! Pertanyaan Ratu Syeba berikutnya adalah: "What comes from the ground, is fed by the ground, flows like water, and makes light?" Dengan tangkas dan tepat Salomo menjawab: "Oil".

Begitu banyak hal dalam kebijaksanaan Salomo yang membuat Ratu Syeba, yang juga memiliki nama lain sesuai tradisi Arab yaitu Bilqis, begitu takjub dan membuatnya mau menyembah Allah nya Salomo, sebagai satu-satunya Tuhan daripada segala yang ada. Ratu Syeba akhirnya mengakui, mengapa Raja Salomo begitu pandai dan memiliki kualitas hikmat yang luar biasa, semua itu karena anugerah dari Allahnya Salomo.

(Kisah Ratu Syeba ini disadur dari majalah YEMEN TODAY, edisi Oktober 2010)

YEMEN, A DIFFERENT SENSATION OF A GULF COUNTRY

2010-09-03T20:28:00.056+07:00

Sana'a Airport, similar with Kemayoran
Airport-Jakarta around 1980

While landed at Sana'a International Airport, at Sana'a-capital city of Republic of Yemen, I was full with impression. But it was not caused by the beauty or splendor of the city (includes the airport as a "main gate" of a country), but impressed with its under-developed atmosphere if compared with other cities in Gulf Countries where I had visited, with their modern airports, sky-scrapers, wide & neat highways complete with luxury vehicles passing on it. Yemen, with Sana'a as the capital city - is really really different. Arrival hall at the airport really reminds me of the old Kemayoran Airport at Jakarta in year 1970 - 19880.
Jauh dari kecanggihan selayaknya bandara modern, kumuh dan....... sepi. Bandingkan saja dengan Dubai International Airport yang begitu modern, bersih, mewah dan ramai 24 jam dengan Dubai Duty Free-nya. Di gedung Arrival, aku cuma menemui sebuah counter Money Exchange, beberapa deret kursi, counter Visa, dan pintu imigrasi yang kadang dijaga petugas tapi kadang pula tidak dijaga!

Setelah menukar uang dollar yang kubawa dengan mata uang Yemeni Riyal, aku menjumpai supir kantor yang menjemputku. Toyota Land Cruiser yang kutumpangi langsung meluncur menuju hotel, menyusuri kota Sana'a di pagi masih menjelang siang, udara terasa begitu sejuk mengingatkanku dengan kota Bandung. Memang Sana'a persis Bandung, dikelilingi oleh pegunungan di sekitarnya, serta memiliki ketinggian lebih dari 2000 meter dari permukaan laut, membuat udara di musim panas pun terasa sejuk. Inilah sensasi kedua yang kutemui berbeda dengan kota-kota besar di negara teluk lainnya yang panasnya bisa mencapai 50 derajat Celcius di musim panas. Jalanan terasa begitu sepi, hanya ada beberapa mobil yang kebanyakan mobil 'butut' berlalu lalang, mungkin karena ini bulan Ramadhan. Di beberapa titik kulihat ada beberapa kelompok tentara berjaga-jaga. Konon memang saat ini Yemen masih merupakan negara yang diwarnai konflik, dimana terdapat dua kelompok pemberontak, yang satu dari utara (perbatasan dengan wilayah Saudi Arabia) dan yang satu dari selatan (tepi teluk Aden). Pemberontak-pemberontak ini mungkin mirip dengan GPK Aceh (ujung barat Indonesia) atau GPM Papua (ujung timur Indonesia). Kondisi ini ditambah lagi dengan kehadiran kelompok Al-Qaeda (AQAP-Al Qaeda in Arab Peninsula) pimpinan Osama bin Laden yang menjadikan Yemen menjadi pusat operasinya setelah peristiwa 911 (WTC). Cerita yang cukup ngeri yang kudengar adalah suatu peristiwa penculikan seorang warga negara asing oleh kaum pemberontak, dimana warga asing tersebut kemudian dijual ke kelompok Al-Qaeda! Kondisi yang tidak kondusif inilah yang membuat perusahaan Canada tempat aku bekerja menerapkan peraturan ketat, bahwa tiap expatriate tidak boleh pergi keluar dari kantor atau hotel tempat kami tinggal kalau tidak diantar oleh supir yang telah disediakan khusus untuk kami.

Mencoba membandingkan dengan Indonesia, Yemen ternyata lebih banyak kemiripannya dengan Indonesia ketimbang dengan negara-negara teluk lainnya. Sebutlah beberapa hal:

Bentuk pemerintahan sama-sama Republik. Bandingkan dengan bentuk pemerintahan di negara-negara teluk lainnya yaitu: Kerajaan (Saudi Arabia), Emirate (Qatar, Bahrain dan Uni Arab Emirate, yg lebih terkenal dengan Abu Dhabi dan Dubai nya) dan Kesultanan.(Oman).
Sama-sama negara dengan mayoritas beragama Islam, dengan minoritas penduduk lainnya beragama Kristen, Yahudi dan Hindu.
Sama-sama kaya dengan minyak dan gas, tetapi karena kegiatan eksplorasi nya tidak mandiri, artinya perusahaan minyak nasional nya melakukan eksplorasi dan pengolahan minyak dengan bekerjasama dengan perusahaan minyak asing. Persis Indonesia yang begitu kaya dengan minyak dan gas tetapi eksplorasi serta pengolahannya sebagian besar "dipercayakan" pada perusahaan minyak asing. Bandingkan dengan negara-teluk lain yang perusahaan minyak nasional nya sudah mandiri, dalam arti kata, bisa mengeksplorasi dan mengolahnya sendiri, seperti Saudi Aramco (Saudi Arabia), Qatar Petroleum dan QatarGas (Qatar), serta ADCO dan ADNOC (Abu Dhabi).

Yemen memang sangat bergantung pada hasil migas, dimana sekitar 80% pendapatannya adalah dari hasil migas ini. Pertanyaanya, mengapa kok tidak kaya seperti Saudi, Qatar or UAE (Abu Dhabi)? Jawaban pertama mungkin seperti yang disebut di atas tadi, hasil minyaknya tidak sepenuhnya dinikmati oleh rakyatnya. Tidak heran, karena dari eksplorasi minyak yang ada, sekitar 85% menjadi "jatah" oil company asing, sedangkan untuk pemerintah Yemen sendiri hanya sekitar 15% saja. Inilah pula yang membuat rakyatnya menjadi miskin dan terbelakang, dimana menurut statistik terakhir, 40% rakyat "harus" hidup dengan di bawah US $ 2 per hari (sekitar Rp. 18.000). Bandingkan dengan rakyat Saudi yang tidak perlu bekerja pun sudah mendapat tunjangan hidup ribuan Saudi Riyal per bulan dari pemerintahnya, karena memang kocek pemerintahnya yang sangat tebal.

Kondisi kesenjangan ekonomi inilah yang mungkin juga menjadi penyebab banyak terjadi ketidak-puasan di kalangan masyarakat Yemen, sehingga terjadi pemberontakan-pemberontakan. Kembali, ini mengingatkan dengan GPK di Aceh dan GPM di Papua.

Satu lagi, salah satu ciri penduduk Yemen adalah kegemaran mereka mengunyah Qat, yaitu sejenis daun-daunan yang sebenarnya masih tergolong narkotika ringan. Ke mana pun anda pergi, baik ke pasar, supermarket, toko, pinggir jalan, pasti akan menemui orang-orang yang tampak sebelah pipi nya "gembung" karena sedang "chewing qat".

Menurut statistik pemerintah, 70 % laki-laki dewasa mengkonsumsi qat, dan 35% wanita dewasa juga merupakan penggemarnya.

Waktu kutanya, apa sih enaknya "chewing qat"? Jawab mereka adalah: perasaan lebih fresh, lebih bertenaga, energik, lebih aktif dan bahkan tahan tidak tidur semalaman! OMG! Pengaruh Qat itu rupanya mirip dengan pil Extasi, and they have been addicted! Pemerintah Yemen sendiri memang sudah cukup lama menyadari bahwa qat lebih banyak memiliki efek negatif ketimbang positifnya, tetapi rupanya mereka belum berdaya untuk mengarahkan rakyatnya untuk mulai mengurangi konsumsi qat.

Begitu banyak masalah yang membelit negara yang konon tempat bermukimnya salah seorang anak Nabi Nuh setelah air bah surut ini (karena memang termasuk dataran yang tertinggi di timur tengah). Pemberontakan (separatis), gangguan teroris, qat, kemiskinan, kebodohan, korupsi, dan lemahnya wibawa pemerintah membuat negara ini sulit untuk meningkatkan kualitas sumber daya manusia, yang menjadi titik awal untuk kemajuan sebuah negara.

10 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN "BOSS" AND "LEADER"

2010-08-24T14:06:00.007+07:00

There is a lot of difference between "Boss" and "Leader"

Here are only 10 out of those:

Seorang BOSS menciptakan rasa takut dalam diri anak buahnya

Seorang PEMIMPIN membangun kepercayaan
(A BOSS creates a fear in his staff, a LEADER builds trust)

Seorang BOSS mengatakan "saya".
Seorang PEMIMPIN mengatakan "kita"
(A BOSS says: "I", a LEADER says "We")

Seorang BOSS tahu bagaimana pekerjaan harus dilakukan.
Seorang PEMIMPIN tahu bagaimana suatu karier harus ditempa
(A BOSS knows how to do a job, a LEADER knows how to build a career)

Seorang BOSS mengandalkan kekuasaan.
Seorang PEMIMPIN mengandalkan kerjasama.
(A BOSS relies on power, a LEADER relies on cooperation)

Seorang BOSS menyetir
Seorang PEMIMPIN memimpin
(A BOSS drives, a LEADER leads)

Seorang BOSS menyalahkan
Seorang PEMIMPIN menyelesaikan masalah dan memperbaiki kesalahan
(A BOSS blames, a LEADER solves the problem and rectifies wrongness)

Seorang BOSS menguasai 10% tenaga kerja bermasalah.
Seorang PEMIMPIN menguasai 90% tenaga kerja yang kooperatif.
(A BOSS commands 10% of troubled workers, a LEADER commands 90% cooperative workers)

Seorang BOSS menyebabkan dendam bertumbuh.
Seorang PEMIMPIN memupuk antusiasme yang bertumbuh
(A BOSS causes the growth of grudge, a LEADER makes the growth of enthusiasm)

Seorang BOSS menyebabkan pekerjaan menjemukan
Seorang PEMIMPIN menyebabkan pekerjaan menyenangkan/menarik
(A BOSS causes a bored job, a LEADER makes an interesting job)

Seorang BOSS melihat masalah sebagai musibah yang akan menghancurkan perusahaan
Seorang PEMIMPIN melihat masalah sebagai kesempatan untuk berubah menjadi pertumbuhan.
(A BOSS looks a problem as a calamity which will jeopardize the company, a LEADER looks a problem as an opportunity to growth)

INGAT. SEORANG BOSS BERKATA, "PERGI!"
SEORANG PEMIMPIN BERKATA, "AYO PERGI"

(REMEMBER. A BOSS SAYS: "GO!", A LEADER SAYS: "LET'S GO!")

A BOSS MAYBE NOT A QUALIFIED LEADER,

BUT A LEADER MUST BE A QUALIFIED BOSS

KADAL DI NEGERI SENEWEN

2010-08-17T14:08:00.017+07:00

By Djoko Suud Sukahar - from article in : detikNews

(A self reflection for Indonesian Peoples in the Independence Day, August 17th)

Jakarta - Detikcom Ini negeri sejuta janji. Dasarnya slogan. Kebijakannya pamflet. Pejabatnya pemalas dan tukang buat alasan. Ditambah rakyatnya ngegosip dan ‘ngerumor’, lengkap satu paket sebagai negara ‘halusinasi’. Nyaman di tengah kebisingan kalimat-kalimat liris. Massal terjangkit megalomania. Nikmat berkelana dalam impian di tengah kekacauan hidup nyata. Dari Orde Lama sampai Orde Reformasi tak banyak berubah paket itu. Sejak dulu saya selalu mendengar rakyat akan sejahtera, pendidikan murah, pengangguran nihil, pekerjaan gampang, hidup ayem tentrem karta raharja. Persis gambaran zaman Kalasuba yang disuratkan Jangka Jayabaya.

Kata-kata klise itu diulang-ulang keluar dari mulut para pemimpin negeri. Pemerintahan bersih, jabatan yang amanah, anti korupsi janji aksioma. Kata-kata indah itu meluncur ringan dari bibir berbeda-beda, tapi nada, diksi dan aksentuasinya sama. Mulut itu membeo. Robot terprogram, programernya jabatan dan kekuasaan.

Tapi apa tindakan di balik keluhuran kata itu? Hampir semuanya korupsi. Baik yang tertangkap atau yang belum tertangkap. Baik yang bagian menangkap koruptor maupun yang tampilannya santun, dermawan, dan agamis. Negeri ini memang sudah terjangkit virus korupsi paling akut.

Lihat kabar yang tersebar saban hari. Korupsi terjadi di mana-mana. Pejabat atau wakil rakyat sama saja. Penegak hukum atau korban hukum melakukan langkah serupa. Menyogok atau disogok. Mereka pakar penilep uang rakyat, yang membuat kita sering memakai idiom mereka, uang dengar, uang tutup mulut, uang kerohiman, yang konotasinya adalah komisi atau dana kutip.

Virus ini merambah seluruh sektor. Tak terasa kita jadi piawai. Menjadi jagoan ngadali dan ngakali. Kadal bertemu kadal beranak kadal, dan entah berapa generasi lagi negeri ini bisa sama kata dan tindak, bisa beriman sebetul-betul iman pada Tuhan. Sebab semuanya ramai-ramai mencari kesempatan untuk melakukan kebobrokan itu.

Pembentukan Komisi Pemberantasan Korupsi (KPK) dan Satgas Mafia Hukum ternyata tidak mematikan virus itu. Malah virus ini kian cerdas untuk jadi kadal sejati. Tidak mau lagi pegang pimpinan proyek atau bagian pembelian yang selama ini ‘ladang kutip’, tetapi negosiasi siluman korupsi yang aman. Sosialisasi program digalakkan, dan dari sini istilah belah durian diberdayakan. Gol, hasilnya dibagi dua.

Virus itu sudah memasuki aliran darah. Otak dan rasa terkontaminasi. Kemanusiaan dan keyakinan tak mampu mencegahnya untuk berhenti. Malah mayoritas berasumsi ibadah pada Tuhan wajib, tetapi maksiat jalan terus.Tindakan jelek dianggap maqom manusia. Dan kejelekan itu seluruh atau sebagian ditimpakan pada setan yang pekerjaannya memang menggoda.

Makin tahun warga yang waras makin sedikit. Penjara penuh sesak dihuni mantan warga terhormat. Ada gagasan penjara akan direnovasi agar sejuk, indah dan nyaman. Gagasan itu naga-naganya bukan ide yang didasarkan atas nama kemanusiaan, tetapi karena banyaknya para ‘mantan terhormat’yang komplain hidup di penjara tidak enak.

Kalau ingin memanusiakan manusia, rakyat papa yang mayoritas menghuni negeri ini adalah prioritas yang layak diberdayakan. Bukan koruptor, perampok, maling yang menipu, memeras dan menista rakyat jelata. Memiskinkan dan membodohkan rakyat adalah tindakan barbar. Manusiawikah memanusiakan ‘mantan barbarik’ ketimbang memanusiakan rakyat yang kelaparan?

Ini memang negeri senewen. Di negeri ini semua orang bicara kebaikan, tetapi semua orang berbuat tidak baik.

Djoko Suud, budayawan tinggal di Jakarta.

Komentarku: Beginilah gambaran kualitas negeri ku ini...

DATES SEASON IN ABU DHABI (MUSIM KURMA DI ABU DHABI)

2010-07-22T16:16:00.008+07:00

One of the most interesting thing during the summer season in Abu Dhabi is: dates season. The peak of dates season is really in summer. (dates, in Arabic: nakhla). Almost along the highway palm trees lined up very neatly, and anyone is allowed to pick the dates up for free! At first I hesitant to pick it, afraid of police will immediately come and arrest us! Even my fellow, Sayeed Aziz told that is free, we can take the dates for free...
Tapi setelah melihat di beberapa lokasi dimana ada orang2 yang sedang asyik memetik kurma di pinggir jalan, barulah aku yakin bahwa itu memang diperbolehkan untuk memetiknya oleh pemerintah setempat, of course it should be taken as needed, and not for trade! It is really free! Kemudian aku mulai memperlambat laju mobilku, dan menepikannya. Sebenarnya aku tidak begitu suka buah kurma, tetapi ketika mencoba memetik langsung dari pohonnya, apalagi memetiknya begitu mudahnya karena rata-rata pohon kurma di sana hanya memiliki ketinggian 1,5 sampai 2,5 meter saja, dan mencoba mencicipi buah kurma yang segar itu, ternyata aku bisa menikmatinya! Dan itu membuatku dapat melupakan ketidak-gemaranku memakan kurma sebelumnya.

Buah kurma konon memang banyak manfaatnya buat kesehatan. Selain bermanfaat bagi pencernaan, juga membantu memperlancar saluran kemih, bermanfaat bagi ibu hamil karena mengandung kalsium dan zat besi, bahkan dapat mencegah stroke!

According to Sayeed, buah kurma segar zaman sekarang jauh menurun kualitasnya dibanding 10-15 tahun lalu. The dates' quality nowadays is much lower than 10-15 years ago. Barangkali karena kondisi tanah sekarang juga sudah menurun kualitasnya, ditambah dengan kondisi polusi udara yang semakin parah sekarang ini. Apparently, the soil quality and the air pollution are some of the cause of the quality degradation of dates. Well, I think, our world, our environment quality is descending less and less.... Aku makin sadar, bahwa dunia ini makin hari bukan semakin baik, tetapi its going worst and worst.....

WANNA WORKING ABROAD?

2010-06-04T22:28:00.018+07:00

(My apology as this particular article is only in Bahasa Indonesia, due to has dedicated only for Indonesian)
Mau kerja di luar negeri? Bagus! Apalagi jika kita memiliki keahlian tertentu dengan standar internasional yang diakui secara worldwide, merupakan kelebihan dan keuntungan tersendiri untuk dapat bersaing dengan bangsa-bangsa lain yang "hobi"nya kerja di luar negeri mereka, seperti India, Filipina, Pakistan, dsb. Bangsa kita memang masih boleh dikatakan tertinggal dalam kancah dunia pekerjaan di luar negeri yang biasanya melibatkan multi bangsa dan multi kultur.
Ini pengamatan saya dan juga sekaligus pengalaman dimana saya sering ditanya oleh bangsa lain, mengapa orang Indonesia jarang berkiprah dalam perusahaan-perusahaan multinasional dan raksasa dunia. Di sisi lain, bangsa Indonesia lebih dikenal sebagai bangsa yang bila di luar (terutama middle east dan beberapa negara Asia Tenggara) bekerja di sektor informal, seperti pembantu dan supir. Menurut saya, ada beberapa hal yang menyebabkan fenomena tadi:

1. Basis bahasa kita sehari2 bukan bahasa Inggris, sangat beda dengan India misalnya, yang basis bahasanya, bahkan boleh dikatakan bahasa "pemersatu"nya (walaupun sebenarnya mereka tidak memiliki bahasa pemersatu) adalah bahasa Inggris. Jadi, orang Indonesia biasanya lemah dalam bahasa Inggris, apalagi kalau berdebat dalam bahasa Inggris, kebanyakan sudah kalah duluan dari India....

2. Lapangan pekerjaan di sektor formal di negara kita masih tergolong cukup, jika dibanding dengan lapangan pekerjaan di negara seperti India dan Filipina. Terutama India, dengan populasi penduduk yang no. 2 di dunia setelah China, dan tingkat kesenjangan ekonomi yang sangat tinggi. Barack Obama (Presiden AS) boleh saja berkomentar bahwa India adalah salah satu negara yang sedang mengalami Economic Booming, tapi kenyataannya, di sana jurang yang kaya dengan yang miskin sangat dalam, dan mereka cukup pandai dalam menutupi hal ini, serta ditambah pula dengan praktek korupsi yang merajalela. Demikian juga Filipina, yang miskin akan lapangan pekerjaan, sehingga jutaan warganya bermigrasi ke berbagai penjuru dunia untuk menjadi pekerja baik sektor formal maupun non-formal. Jadi, faktor "pemaksa" (bukannya "pendorong") orang Indonesia untuk bekerja di luar negeri relatif kecil karena lapangan pekerjaan di dalam negeri masih ada.

3. Orang Indonesia kebanyakan masih puas dengan "kualifikasi lokal" yang dimiliki. Ini pengalaman saya, dan bisa saja subyektif memang. Tetapi untuk bersaing di luar negeri, modal bahasa Inggris dan tekad kuat untuk bekerja di negeri orang saja tidak cukup, harus dibekali dengan kualifikasi-kualifikasi internasional di bidang masing-masing. Memang tidak mudah, terutama karena untuk mendapatkan kualifikasi internasional tersebut membutuhkan biaya cukup besar.

Padahal, dengan kita bekerja di luar negeri, bukan saja kita akan mendapatkan gaji yang jauh lebih besar (bisa sampai 5 - 10 kali lipat, dengan posisi yang sama), tetapi pada hemat saya, bukan melulu perkara gaji besar bila bekerja di luar negeri, karena ada banyak hal yang dapat kita lakukan sebagai orang Indonesia di negeri orang. Pengalaman saya, dengan kita berada di luar negeri, justru kita dapat membuktikan bahwa bangsa Indonesia adalah bangsa yang sudah maju dan tidak terbelakang. Masih banyak bangsa lain mengira bahwa bangsa kita adalah bangsa yang belum berkembang, miskin dan "tidak jelas". Bahkan sering sekali dalam obrolan-obrolan ringan di kantor, selain saya selalu berusaha meyakinkan bangsa lain bahwa bangsa Indonesia bukan bangsa yang terbelakang, seringkali saya menjadi "agen pariwisata" bagi orang-orang luar, dan dengan semangat saya menjelaskan bahwa Indonesia memiliki sangat banyak obyek pariwisata yang sudah dikelola dengan cukup baik (mestinya pemerintah, cq Menteri Pariwisata berterima kasih dong sama saya....he he he). Dan respon kebanyakan mereka adalah cukup baik dan penuh antusias! Tambahan lagi, dengan bekerja di luar negeri, kita sebenarnya telah menjadi pahlawan devisa buat negara kita, karena setiap bulannya ribuan dollar atau belasan ribu dollar masuk ke rekening kita (atau istri kita) di Indonesia. Kalau rata-rata gaji perbulan kita terima misalnya saja 10,000 US Dollar, bila ada 1000 orang Indonesia saja bekerja di luar, berarti sudah 10,000.000 US Dollar (setara dengan 90 Milyar Rupiah) masuk ke rekening bank di Indonesia per bulannnya! Konon, pendapatan Indonesia dari para pekerja di luar negeri (termasuk dari TKI dan TKW di sektor non-formal) adalah nomor 2 setelah pendapatan Migas.
Jadi, manfaat kerja di luar negeri minimal ada 3 (tiga): pertama: memberikan "keteladanan" bagi bangsa-bangsa lain bagaimana bangsa kita adalah bangsa yang bermoral dan ber-etika unggul dalam bekerja (ingat kebanyakan kita masih menganut: "kerja adalah ibadah"); kedua: menjadi "saksi" bagi dunia bahwa kita adalah bangsa yang besar dan maju; dan ketiga: menjadi penyumbang pendapatan negara yang signifikan.

Terakhir, buat anda yang belum pernah bekerja di luar negeri, dan mau mencobanya, ada beberapa tips yang perlu diperhatikan:

1. Perlengkapi diri dengan ketrampilan atau kualifikasi yang cukup memadai, dan ketrampilan tsb sebaiknya yang worldwide accepted. Jadi kalau mau ikut training atau course, pilihlah yang tersertifikasi oleh badan-badan internasional yang diakui di seluruh dunia. Perusahaan luar nyaris tidak mungkin meng-hire anda, tanpa yakin bahwa anda kompeten dan punya skill yang bisa mereka manfaatkan.

2. Perlengkapi diri dengan bahasa Inggris yang memadai, baik kemampuan menulis dalam bahasa Inggris maupun dalam berkomunikasi lisan. Dalam hal ini TOEFL tidak mutlak, walaupun boleh saja untuk sekedar mengukur kemampuan berbahasa Inggris anda; karena kebanyakan perusahaan asing di luar tidak akan meminta atau menanyakan score TOEFL anda. Dalam wawancara lisan (lewat telpon maupun ketemu langsung) saja mereka akan tahu kemampuan anda dalam berbahasa Inggris.

3. Buat CV anda "powerful", dalam arti, sungguh-sungguh mampu untuk menjelaskan potensi, keahlian dan kemampuan anda. Perhatikan pula struktur CV anda, jangan "acak-acakan", harus ter-plot dengan rapi dengan bagian2 yang jelas di dalamnya. Biasanya CV yang baik terdiri dari Personal Data, Qualification, Education, Training/Course Attended, dan terakhir Work Experience.

4. Posting CV anda di situs2 yang top. Untuk bidang Oil and Gas seperti yang saya geluti, situs-situs seperti Rigzone, Oilcareers, Naukrigulf, MonsterGulf, Jobmail Expat, GulfTalent, dsb sangat berguna dan selalu menjadi tempat para "head hunter" dalam mencari kandidat mereka. Situs-situs tsb adalah semacam "showroom" profil anda bagi calon-calon employer luar. Anda juga bisa mem-posting CV anda di situs-situs perusahaan yang anda minati dan juga situs-situs agency penyuplai tenaga kerja kelas dunia seperti: MPH Consulting, Huxley, Air Energy, Link Oil & Gas, Soul Recources, TSI, MPS, RHL, dsb.

5. Terakhir, waspada terhadap tawaran-tawaran kerja palsu (scam, fraud) yang sekarang banyak dikirimkan oleh orang-orang luar yang tidak bertanggung jawab. Biasanya tawaran2 kerja palsu tsb punya motivasi hanya uang, dan kebanyakan dikirim dari Nigeria dan terakhir ini juga dari Malaysia. Beberapa ciri mereka yang perlu dikenali adalah:

- alamat email si pengirim bukan email company, biasanya mereka menggunakan yahoo, gmail atau webmail2 lain yang gratisan

- dalam email mereka yang pertama sekali anda terima, biasanya mereka tidak menyebut nama anda (ini menuntut ketelitian anda), karena memang mereka tidak mengenal anda (apalagi kualifikasi anda!) dan email itu dikirim secara acak. Lalu selanjutnya mereka akan minta data-data anda. Lucunya, seperti contoh di bawah, si Pengirim email dengan yakinnya mengatakan bahwa dia menemukan CV saya di www.pakpositions.com (situs lowongan kerja untuk orang Pakistan)....... padahal saya tidak pernah mem-posting CV saya disitu!

- posisi yang ditawarkan pun seringsekali begitu beragam dan banyak, mulai dari direktur, manager, staf sampai supir (lihat contoh di bawah). Hal ini juga karena mereka kan tidak tahu kualifikasi anda.
- mereka tidak pernah melakukan interview, baik via telephone maupun langsung. Biasanya dalam emailnya mereka akan melampirkan semacam Online Interview yang perlu anda isi dan di kirim balik ke mereka.

- mereka tidak punya alamat website. Namanya juga perusahaan fiktif. Kalaupun ada, bila di cek ke website tsb, nama dan jabatan orang yang tertera di email tsb tidak eksis. Jadi mereka bisa saja "meminjam" website company yg eksis.
- apabila anda merespon email anda, dan pada akhirnya "anda terpilih", mereka akan mengirimkan draft kontrak/perjanjian kerja kepada anda. Biasanya mereka akan memberikan Offer yang fantastis, seperti gaji yang sangat tinggi (terlalu tinggi untuk kualifikasi setara anda), fasilitas yang wah, dsb. Tujuannya jelas, yaitu supaya anda benar2 interest dan kemudian mengikuti petunjuk mereka berikutnya hingga akhirnya anda dapat masuk "perangkap" mereka.

- ujung-ujung dari proses rekrutmen tsb biasanya adalah mereka akan minta anda mengirimkan sejumlah uang tertentu, dengan alasan untuk mengurus administrasi, visa, dsb. Padahal employer atau agency yang asli tidak akan pernah meminta pungutan seperak pun. Employer atau agency yang asli akan menanggung seluruh biaya administrasi keperluan anda untuk berangkat, seperti visa, work permit, tiket pesawat, dsb.
- Saran saya, banyaklah berkonsultasi dengan rekan anda yang sudah berpengalaman bekerja di luar negeri, dan sudah tahu seluk beluk recruitment di kancah internasional.

Contoh Penipuan lewat Email Lowongan Kerja
(klik pada gambar untuk memperbesar)

Selamat berkiprah melalui pekerjaan yang berkualitas dan menunjukkan kualitas bangsa Indonesia di kancah dunia! Buktikan kita bukan bangsa budak, kita adalah bangsa yang berkualitas!
(Baca juga: WANNA WORKING ABROAD - Part 2)

SUMMER IN ABU DHABI

2010-05-01T15:46:00.007+07:00

Abu Dhabi in the beginning of summer. As usually happened in most gulf countries, sand-storm indicates the change from winter to summer, and it will be happening for 2-3 days, particularly at the desert area. The most dangerous one for me about the sand-storm is while I am travelling with car/vehicle, whereas the sand will be hampering the visibility, the vehicle's body will be shaken hit by the very strong wind, and also the risk to be buried in the middle of the desert!

Fortunately I drove Mitsubishi Pajero V6, the very powerful 4 Wheel Drive vehicle (you can imagine this vehicle had been the winner in Paris-Dakkar rally in 80-90 era), it could swim on the fines sand, without afraid to be sink in the "sea" of sand. The above picture had taken while I was on the way from the job site back to camp, while I met worker's bus trapped in the sand under the very strong sand storm, you can see all the bus passenger had been pushing the bus to let it out from the sand.

While summer, the day temperature at Abu Dhabi will reach 50 degC with 15-30 % of humidity (it means sangat kering sekali!). Sungguh menyiksa bagi kita yang berasal dari wilayah tropis seperti Indonesia, dimana suhu maksimal maybe cuma 35 degC dengan kelembaban sampai 75%. Perlengkapan wajib selama musim panas adalah: topi, face cover, baju lengan panjang, serta sarung tangan dan juga jangan lupa: sunblock cream. Those are must, except you want to get your skin darker, alias jadi "item". Well, this the cost should be paid to be a qualified engineer maybe.... because we have to be able to survive within any kind of bad weather....

TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT - A Brief Theory

2010-04-21T22:08:00.012+07:00

GENERAL

Total Quality Management is composed of three paradigms:

Total: Involving the entire organization, supply chain, and/or product life cycle
Quality: The literal definition of quality
Management: The system of managing with steps like : plan, organize, control, lead, staff, provisioning and organizing

As defined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO):

"TQM is a management approaches for an organization, centered on quality, based on the participation of all its members and aiming at long-term success through customer satisfaction, and benefits to all members of the organization and to society." ISO 8402:1994

One major aim is to reduce variation from every process so that greater consistency of effort is obtained. (Royse, D., Thyer, B., Padgett D., & Logan T., 2006)

Meanwhile, in

Japan

, TQM comprises four process steps, namely:

Kaizen – Focuses on "Continuous Process Improvement", to make processes visible, repeatable and measurable.
Atarimae Hinshitsu – The idea that "things will work as they are supposed to" (for example, a pen will write).
Kansei – Examinating the way the user applies the product leads to improvement in the product itself.
Miryokuteki Hinshitsu – The idea that "things should have an aesthetic quality" (for example, a pen will write in a way that is pleasing to the writer).

Total Quality Managemnt requires that the company maintain this quality standard in all aspects of the business. This requires ensuring that things are done right the first time and that defects and waste are eliminated from the operations as minimum as possible

DEFINITION

Total Quality Management is the organization wide management of quality. Management consists of planning, organizing, directing, control, and assurance. Total quality is called total because it consists of two qualities: quality of return to satisfy the needs of the shareholders, and quality of products.

ORIGIN OF TQM

The origin of the expression Total Quality Management is unclear.

"Total Quality Control" was the key concept of Armand Feigenbaum's book, Quality Control: Principles, Practice, and Administration. In a chapter titled "Total Quality Control" Feigenbaum grabs on to an idea that sparked many scholars' interest in the following decades. The expression Total Quality Control existed together with the Japanese expression "Company Wide Quality Control" (CWQC) and the differences between the two expression was unclear. Major influencers for both expressions were W. Edwards Deming, Joseph Juran, Philip B. Crosby, and Kaoru Ishikawa, known as the big four.

Apparently, the expression Total Quality Management started to appear in the 1980 era and there are two theories of its origin:

1. One theory is that Total Quality Management was created as an misinterpretation from Japanese to English since no difference exist between the words "control" and "management" in Japanese. According to William Golomski (an American scholar and consultant in Quality) was TQM first mentioned by Koji Kobayashi at NEC (Nippon Electrical Company) in his speech when he received the Deming Prize in 1974.

2. The American Society for Quality says that the term Total Quality Management was used by the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command in 1984 to describe its Japanese-style management approach to quality improvement since they did not like the word control in Total Quality Control. The word management should then have been suggested by one of the employees, Nancy Warren. This is consistent with the story that the United States Navy Personnel Research and Development Center began researching the use of statistical process control (SPC), the work of Juran, Crosby, and Ishikawa, and the philosophy of W. Edwards Deming to make performance improvements in 1984. This approach was first tested at the North Island Naval Aviation Depot.

TQM AND CONTINGENCY-BASED RESEARCH

Total Quality Management has not been independent of its environment. In the context of Management Accounting Systems (MCSs), Sim and Killough, show that incentive pay enhanced the positive effects of TQM on customer and quality performance. Then, Ittner and Larcker (1995) demonstrated that product focused TQM was linked to timely problem solving information and flexible revisions to reward systems. Chendall (2003) summarizes the findings from contingency-based research concerning management control systems and TQM by noting that “TQM is associated with broadly based MCSs including timely, flexible, externally focused information; close interactions between advanced technologies and strategy; and non-financial performance measurement.” (p.143)

POSSIBLE LIFECYCLE

Abrahamson, in "Managerial Fashion", Academy of Management Review (1996) argued that fashionable management discourse such as Quality Circles tends to follow a life-cycle in the form of a bell shape pattern (bell-curve), possibly indicating a management fad.

The lifecycle of quality circles

Furthermore, we also observed that Quality Circles' momentum peaked in five years and we wanted to know if this time period was consistent in other management fashions. To test this proposition, we developed lifecycles with an accepted management fad and a management fashion, namely, Total Quality Management and Business Process Reengineering.

References

Abrahamson, E (1996). "Managerial Fasion", Academy of Management Review
Bergman B. & Klefsjö B. (2007) Kvalitet från behov till använding
Xu , Q. (1994) The making of TQM: History and margins of the hi(gh) story

WHAT QUALITY IS?

2010-03-11T13:53:00.003+07:00

Quality is defined as : "fit for purpose", and when correlated to the customer, quality means: "customer satisfaction".