Many people know him simply as Joko, but his legal name is Niki Denes Andriyanto. For decades, Joko has been a treasured friend whom we consider family.

Anyone who has ever used Joko as a driver in Bali will know that he goes far beyond what is expected. He has spent years helping visitors navigate not only Bali’s roads, but also life’s unexpected challenges. Countless people can share stories of Joko stepping in during sickness, emergencies, travel mishaps, and difficult situations, always putting the wellbeing of others before himself.

Above all else, Joko is a devoted single father to his two children: 13-year-old Airlingga, affectionately known as “AhAh”, and his younger daughter Elouise. Joko works tirelessly as both a driver and farmer to provide for his children and give them every opportunity possible. His children adore him, and anyone who meets them can see the love and bond they share as a family.

AhAh is a bright, intelligent and kind-hearted young boy. He is known for his selflessness, often putting others before himself, even giving his little sister the last bite of his meal. He has a gentle heart and a caring nature far beyond his years.

On Sunday, 7 June 2026, at approximately 5:00pm, AhAh and two friends were playing soccer on Kuta Beach, just as many children do every day.

Several times during the game, the ball was kicked into the shallow water and one of the boys would retrieve it. Then, as the ball entered the water again, one of the boys ran in after it and quickly began struggling against the powerful conditions.

Without hesitation, AhAh and another young friend rushed into the water to help.

In an act of courage and selflessness, this 13-year-old boy put another person’s safety ahead of his own.

Tragically, a powerful wave caught the boys. One child managed to make it back to shore and raise the alarm, but AhAh and his friend were swept out to sea.

Search and Rescue teams were deployed that evening between approximately 6:00pm and 7:00pm and have been conducting an extensive search by land, sea and air ever since.

As of Tuesday, 9 June 2026, there have been no confirmed sightings of either boy, and the search continues.

Since that terrible evening, Joko has been unable to work. Together with Elouise, he has remained near the tsunami shelter at Kuta Beach, refusing to leave until their son and brother is brought home. They have spent nights in the cold, holding onto hope while waiting for news.

Friends and family have been providing food, water, blankets and immediate support, but the reality is that this beautiful family will need ongoing financial assistance in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Funds raised will help support:

• Daily living expenses while Joko is unable to work

• Food, accommodation and transport costs during the search

• Ongoing support for Elouise

• Future expenses associated with the outcome of the search and the family’s healing journey

• Financial relief that allows Joko to focus on his family during this unimaginably difficult time

Every dollar raised will be transferred directly to Joko via his BCA bank account or Wise transfer.

We will continue to provide updates regarding the search for our beloved AhAh as information becomes available.

Thank you for supporting Joko, Elouise, and their family during this heartbreaking time. Your generosity, kindness and prayers mean more than words can express.

Please keep AhAh and everyone involved in the search in your thoughts.