TKA English

Exploring Bali’s Natural Wonders

Bali, a beautiful island in Indonesia, is known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. While many come for the beaches and temples, the island also offers natural attractions that amaze nature lovers from around the world. From national parks and waterfalls to terraced rice fields, Bali is full of natural beauty.

In the west lies West Bali National Park, a peaceful area filled with green forests, calm mangrove swamps, and colorful coral reefs along the sea. The air is fresh, and the scenery feels untouched. One of the park’s most special sights is the Bali Starling—a rare white bird with bright blue around its eyes. Its soft song adds magic to the quiet forest. Visitors can walk along clear paths and enjoy the rich variety of plants and animals in this protected area.

Heading north, travelers find the scenic Munduk Waterfall, surrounded by green hills and forests. Water flows gently over rocky cliffs into a cool clear pool. Mist rises into the air, mixing with the calming sound of falling water. The walk to the waterfall passes through narrow paths lined with coffee and clove trees. Their fresh scent fills the air, offering a pleasant and peaceful experience. Munduk is the perfect place to relax and enjoy Bali’s natural charm.

Near the cultural center Ubud, the famous Tegalalang rice terraces stretch across the hills in green steps. These terraces are shaped by generations of farmers who work the land by hand. In the morning, mist rises above the fields, and sunlight reflects off the water in the paddies. Farmers in wide-brimmed hats plant rice carefully, their feet sinking into the soft earth. Water flows gently through small canals, keeping the fields healthy and green. The quiet surroundings and slow rhythm of farm life create a peaceful and inspiring scene.

These natural wonders highlight Bali’s dedication in preserving its environmental and cultural treasures. By exploring these sites, tourists not only experience the island’s scenic beauty but also support ongoing conservation efforts, helping to ensure that Bali’s wonders last for future generations.

Which parts of the text are not support the description of Bali as “Bali is full of natural beauty“?

• • A peaceful area filled with green forests, calm mangrove swamps, and colorful coral reefs along the sea.

• • These terraces are shaped by generations of farmers who work the land by hand.

• • Water flows gently over rocky cliffs into a cool, clear pool. Mist rises into the air, mixing with the calming sound of falling water.

• • In the morning, mist rises above the fields, and sunlight reflects off the water in the paddies.

• • Farmers in wide-brimmed hats plant rice carefully, their feet sinking into the soft earth.

In recent years, the world has seen a big change in how people pay for things. More and more people, especially young ones, prefer using digital payment methods like e-wallets, mobile banking, and contactless cards. This new trend has given rise to what many call the “cashless generation.”

One main reason for this shift is convenience. Paying with a phone or card is faster and easier than carrying coins and bills. People can now buy food, shop online, or even pay for public transport with just a tap. It also helps reduce the risk of theft since there is no physical money to lose.

Another reason is the growth of technology. With smartphones becoming common and the internet being more available, digital payments have become part of daily life. Many schools and cafes now even refuse to accept cash, encouraging young people to adapt to this modern lifestyle.

However, there are some concerns. Some people argue that going cashless can exclude older generations or those who do not have access to smartphones or bank accounts. Others worry about privacy and security, as digital payments can be tracked and hacked.

Despite these issues, the cashless trend continues to grow. Governments and businesses are working to make digital payments more secure and more available to everyone. It seems likely that the future will be even more digital.

In conclusion, the cashless generation represents a big change in how we handle money. While there are both advantages and disadvantages, it is clear that cashless payments offer many benefits in terms of speed and convenience. As long as we ensure that everyone can join this movement, the cashless future could be a smart and inclusive one.

How does the writer present different viewpoints about the topic?

• 1. By showing only negative effects of a cashless society

• 1. By clearly supporting the idea of going fully digital

• 1. By including statistics from international research

• 1. By giving emotional opinions from young people

• 1. By mentioning pros and cons of going cashless

   

Malin’s Big City Life: A Modern Tale

Malin had always dreamed of leaving his small coastal village. After graduating from high school, he moved to Jakarta with hopes of building a better life. He worked part-time jobs during the day and studied digital marketing at night. It wasn’t easy, but he slowly gained skills, built a client list, and eventually launched a successful online clothing brand.

Within four years, Malin’s name became known among young entrepreneurs. He started attending influencer events, sharing productivity tips, and talking about “humble beginnings”—though he rarely mentioned where he came from. At some point, he stopped returning his mother’s calls. He thought she wouldn’t understand his lifestyle now: brand deals, curated social media posts, and talk shows.

One day, Malin was invited to speak at a business seminar, streamed live across Indonesia. In the audience was a quiet woman in a simple kebaya—his mother, who had taken the long trip to Jakarta without telling him. She waited outside the venue, holding a basket of banana chips she used to make for him when he was little.

When she finally approached him near the stage, Malin stepped back. Cameras were everywhere, and the last thing he wanted was to be seen with someone who didn’t match the image he had built. He gave her a quick nod and turned away, pretending not to recognize her.

Later that night, a short video went viral: a young CEO ignoring an old woman who claimed to be his mother. Comments exploded with criticism, and people began to question the authenticity of his “humble” background. Sponsorships were paused. Interview requests stopped coming. Alone in his apartment, Malin stared at the screen—his face frozen in the moment he turned away.

What is the main message of the story?

• 1. Staying true to your goals is more important than pleasing others

• 1. Sometimes, ambition can push you to make difficult personal choices

• 1. Building your image is part of surviving in a competitive world

• 1. Success means little if it leads you to ignore those who supported you

• 1. Being proud of your background can be hard when your life changes

Which of the following best describe Malin’s character based on the passage? (Select all that apply)

• 1. Hardworking and determined

• 1. Humble and proud of his roots

• 1. Ambitious and goal-oriented

• 1. Ashamed of his past and image-focused

• 1. Disrespectful and quick-tempered

What would likely happen if Malin didn’t ignore his mother, but treated her with respect in front of the public?

• 1. People would question whether he was faking the moment for attention

• 1. His mother would ask him to leave his business and return to the village

• 1. He would lose brand deals for being too focused on family

• 1. Netizens would mock him for having an uneducated parent

• 1. It would strengthen his image as someone who truly came from humble beginnings

What is the main idea of the passage?

• Bali is famous only for its beaches.

• Bali has many natural attractions besides beaches

• Bali is a place with only rice fields.

• Bali is popular only for temples.

Which rare bird can be found in West Bali National Park?

• Bali Eagle

• Bali Parrot

• Bali Starling

• Bali Owl

The word “untouched” in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to…

• damaged

• natural

• crowded

• polluted

What can we infer about the farmers in Tegalalang Rice Terraces?

• They work with modern machines.

• They still use traditional farming methods.

• They grow coffee and clove trees.

• They are tourists exploring the land.

What fills the air along the path to Munduk Waterfall?

• Smoke

• Coffee and clove scent

• Rice fragrance

• Fresh air from the mountain