Ni Arpah, 60, from Gianyar, is the owner of a souvenir shop near Lake Beratan, in Bedugul. She has six children and seven grandchildren.

What’s the greatest lesson life has taught you?
To take care of each other.

What’s most important?
My family.

What advice would you give the younger generations?
Learn and do what’s most important for you in life. Also try to be a good person.

Are you worried about dying?
I’m worried but I know God will look after me. I’m Muslim so I don’t believe in reincarnation.

When was the happiest time of your life?
I’m happiest when my family meets and we’re all together.

And the worst?
When I didn’t have any money. I almost couldn’t afford to buy food.

What’s humanity all about?
It’s about following God.

Why are there so many conflicts in the world?
Because people are greedy.

Is a peaceful world possible?
Not with the people there are in the world.

How old do you feel?
Less than 60 – in my 50s.

Is one lifetime enough?
Yes, it is.

How has Bali changed?
The people have changed. Now, they don’t use their knowledge well.

Has tourism been good for Bali?
Yes. It has brought money to the local people.

What’s the major difference between the East and the West?
They are the same.

Have you ever doubted your religion?
No, I haven’t.

What makes you so sure about it?
I know my God.

BT/PCAR