This media release was written in Indonesian. Click here for the Indonesian version.

The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.

In a formal letter addressed to the UTAS Vice-Chancellor, AIYA National President Claudia Wijaya outlines the program’s strategic importance to Australia’s regional engagement, citing its alignment with national policy directions and its impact on youth diplomacy, community connection, and educational partnerships. She presents several key arguments:

1. Proven Strategic Partnership through the UniGo Program

AIYA has maintained a strong partnership with UTAS through programs like UniGo, which offer UTAS students immersive educational and cultural experiences in Indonesia. These programs have fostered long-lasting friendships, cultural understanding, and people-to-people ties that extend beyond the classroom. A particularly successful example occurred in January 2024, when AIYA South Sulawesi partnered with UTAS and Australian Volunteers International to host the CulturalVerse program in Makassar, where UTAS students engaged in Bugis-Makassar culture through performances, cuisine, and cultural activities supported by the Australian Consulate.

2. Strategic Misalignment with National Policy

The proposal to close the Indonesian program directly contradicts the Australian Government’s policy direction. Specifically, the Plan of Action for the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2025–2029) emphasises the importance of educational and cultural connections. Pillar 2 of the plan explicitly highlights the role of youth organizations like AIYA in strengthening bilateral ties.

3. Critical Infrastructure for Regional Engagement

The Indonesian program is more than an academic course, it is part of Australia’s critical national infrastructure for meaningful engagement with Southeast Asia. As noted by the Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country’ Indonesian Studies (ACICIS), only 13 universities in Australia still offer Indonesian, a steep decline from 22 in the 1990s. Closing the program at UTAS would further weaken national capacity for regional literacy.

4. Meaningful Youth Engagement and Community Impact

AIYA’s own programs continue to attract strong participation from young Australians interested in Indonesia. UTAS students have actively engaged in Indonesian language and cultural initiatives, showing a clear appetite for deeper bilateral understanding where an untapped potential could be expanded with better support.

Claudia concludes that this closure represents more than the loss of an academic offering, it symbolises a retreat from Australia’s regional engagement at a time when that engagement should be growing. AIYA stands ready to collaborate with UTAS to explore alternative solutions that preserve this vital program while responding to the university’s structural challenges.

This article was written in Indonesian. Click here for Indonesian version.

Article by Dinda Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor
Translated by Thomas Shears – AIYA National Translation Team

For the last few months, the hashtag #KaburAjaDulu (roughly translating to ‘just run away/escape first’) has gone viral on Indonesian social media. The trend has become a symbol of frustration, aspirations and even humour for Indonesians – particularly among younger generations. On platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, users have openly shared personal stories and aspirational content depicting their desire to escape from their current situations. The popularity of the trend reflects deeper social issues and a collective desire for change among Indonesian youth.

#KaburAjaDulu has emerged in response to various domestic challenges, including limited job opportunities, low wages and mass layoffs, which have contributed to economic frustration among Indonesian society. As a result, many young Indonesians are increasingly interested in working or studying overseas. This moment has also created an opportunity for migration agencies to promote work and study programs in various countries, such as Australia’s Work and Holiday Visa (WHV), Germany’s Ausbildung program and Japan’s Tokutei Ginou or Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa. These programs attract Indonesian youth with promises of higher wages, global experience, better quality of life and access to world-class education. Countries like Australia, Malaysia, the United States, Japan and the United Kingdom are among the most popular destinations for those wishing to undertake further study.

While #KaburAjaDulu offers various benefits, it also comes with significant challenges. On the positive side, those who go overseas gain exposure to new cultures, opportunities to improve their language skills and the potential for skill development. This experience broadens the perspectives of the Indonesian diaspora and expands their global networks. 

They can also earn higher salaries and access better career opportunities. Indonesian migrant workers typically earn 4–6 times more than they would in Indonesia. Additionally, money sent from Indonesian workers overseas play a crucial role in Indonesia’s national economy. Bank Indonesia (BI) reported that in 2023, remittances from Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) reached IDR 227.52 trillion (AU$21.71 billion) – equivalent to 1% of Indonesia’s total GDP. It is therefore no surprise that migrant workers are often referred to as ‘Foreign Exchange Heroes’.

However, migration overseas also raises concerns, ranging from individual impacts to national consequences. First, there are financial risks associated with migration, including high relocation and living costs. Second, family separation and cultural isolation can take an emotional toll on individuals. Further, there is a risk of exploitation, particularly for those entering low-skilled labour markets in other countries. On a national scale, the long-term impact of this migration phenomenon raises concerns about ‘brain drain’ – the loss of skilled talent, which could hinder Indonesia’s development potential.

As someone who has lived in Australia for two years on a WHV, I have personally experienced both the benefits and challenges of this journey. Some of the advantages include adequate income, good air quality, an efficient public transportation system and well-functioning governance. Life in Australia also highly values work-life balance, allowing me to spend free time enjoying music performances, exercising or relaxing in parks with friends. Australia’s diverse society has introduced me not only to locals but also to many friends from countries such as South Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, India and beyond. As an Indonesian, the experience of living in the Land Down Under has been incredibly valuable!

Despite its many benefits, living in a foreign country comes with its own set of challenges. I often feel lonely due to living away from my family and close friends in Indonesia. While technology enables us to stay connected through phone calls and messages, the lack of direct interaction with loved ones remains difficult. Additionally, the high cost of living, particularly for accommodation and ready-to-eat meals, poses a financial challenge that requires careful budgeting and financial management.

The #KaburAjaDulu experience highlights both the positive and negative aspects of life overseas. While it offers better living standards and personal growth opportunities, living in another country requires adaptability and strong management skills.

At its core, the #KaburAjaDulu trend is a call for systemic change and a temporary escape. It challenges Indonesians to weigh the pros and cons of seeking opportunities overseas versus staying in Indonesia. This phenomenon also serves as a wake-up call for the Indonesian Government to improve quality of life, support youth initiatives and create more job opportunities.

Ultimately, Indonesians want their country to be a more conducive place for growth while also having the option to explore opportunities overseas. Achieving this balance would allow personal growth and national development to go hand in hand, creating a stronger and more prosperous Indonesia – one where young people feel inspired to stay and contribute, rather than merely seeking an escape. The government and private sector must work together to create more job opportunities, enhance education and training programs, as well as foster an environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.

So, before deciding to ‘escape’, it’s crucial to carefully consider and prepare for the journey ahead.

Artikel ini ditulis dalam Bahasa Inggris. Klik di sini untuk versi Bahasa Inggris.

Artikel oleh Dinda Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor

Dalam beberapa bulan terakhir, media sosial Indonesia diramaikan dengan tagar #KaburAjaDulu. Tren ini telah menjadi simbol dari rasa frustasi, aspirasi, dan bahkan humor di kalangan masyarakat Indonesia, khususnya kaum muda. Di berbagai platform seperti X (sebelumnya Twitter) dan Instagram, pengguna tidak segan berbagi kisah pribadi dan konten aspiratif yang menggambarkan keinginan untuk melarikan diri dari situasi terkini. Popularitas #KaburAjaDulu mencerminkan masalah sosial yang lebih dalam dan keinginan kolektif akan perubahan di kalangan generasi muda Indonesia.

Tren #KaburAjaDulu muncul sebagai respon terhadap berbagai tantangan di dalam negeri, seperti kurangnya peluang kerja, gaji yang rendah, dan badai PHK berkontribusi terhadap frustasi ekonomi di kalangan masyarakat Indonesia. Akibatnya, banyak anak muda Indonesia tertarik untuk bekerja dan studi di luar negeri. Momen ini juga menjadi peluang bagi agen-agen migrasi untuk mempromosikan program kerja dan kuliah di berbagai negara, seperti Work and Holiday Visa Australia, program Ausbildung Jerman, dan visa Tokutei Ginou atau Pekerja Terampil Spesifik (SSW) Jepang. Program-program ini menarik minat anak muda Indonesia dengan janji upah yang lebih tinggi, pengalaman global, kualitas hidup yang lebih baik, dan akses ke sistem pendidikan kelas dunia. Negara-negara seperti Australia, Malaysia, Amerika Serikat, Jepang, dan Inggris adalah tujuan populer bagi mereka yang ingin melanjutkan studi.

Meskipun tren #KaburAjaDulu menawarkan berbagai manfaat, tren ini juga disertai dengan tantangan yang signifikan. Di sisi positifnya, mereka yang pergi ke luar negeri memiliki paparan terhadap budaya baru, kesempatan meningkatkan kemampuan bahasa, dan juga potensi pengembangan keterampilan. Pengalaman ini membuat diaspora Indonesia memiliki pandangan lebih luas dan koneksi global. Mereka juga bisa dapat gaji lebih besar dan peluang karir yang lebih baik. Pekerja migran Indonesia biasanya memperoleh penghasilan 4-6 kali lebih banyak daripada yang mereka peroleh di Indonesia. Selain itu, uang yang dikirim pekerja Indonesia di luar negeri turut berperan dalam perekonomian negara. Bank Indonesia (BI) mengungkapkan sumbangan devisa dari Pekerja Migran Indonesia (PMI) pada tahun 2023 mencapai Rp227,52 triliun (US$14,22 miliar), setara dengan 1% dari total PDB Indonesia. Maka, tak heran apabila istilah “Pahlawan Devisa” disematkan kepada para pekerja imigran.

Namun, tren migrasi ke luar negeri ini juga memicu berbagai keresahan, mulai dari dampak terhadap individu hingga konsekuensi bagi negara secara keseluruhan. Pertama, risiko finansial yang terkait dengan migrasi, termasuk tingginya biaya relokasi dan biaya hidup di luar negeri. Kedua, perpisahan keluarga dan keterasingan budaya juga merupakan biaya emosional yang dapat berdampak buruk pada individu. Lebih jauh lagi, terdapat risiko eksploitasi terutama bagi mereka yang memasuki pasar tenaga kerja berketerampilan rendah di luar negeri. Selain itu, di skala nasional, dampak jangka panjang dari fenomena perpindahan ini dikhawatirkan akan menciptakan brain drain, di mana hilangnya bakat terampil yang akan mempengaruhi potensi berkembangnya Indonesia.

Sebagai seseorang yang telah menjalani kehidupan di Australia selama dua tahun menggunakan Working Holiday Visa (WHV), penulis merasakan langsung manfaat dan tantangan dari pengalaman ini.Beberapa keuntungan yang dirasakan penulis meliputi pendapatan yang memadai, lingkungan dengan kualitas udara yang baik, sistem transportasi publik yang efisien, dan pemerintahan yang berjalan dengan baik. Kehidupan di Australia juga sangat menghargai konsep keseimbangan antara pekerjaan dan kehidupan pribadi. Waktu luang penulis dapat dimanfaatkan untuk berbagai aktivitas, seperti menikmati pertunjukan musik, berolahraga, atau bersantai di taman bersama teman-teman. Australia yang secara sosial sangat beragam, tidak hanya mempertemukan penulis dengan masyarakat lokal, namun juga banyak teman dari berbagai negara, seperti Korea Selatan, Vietnam, Filipina, India, dan lainnya. Sebagai seorang warga negara Indonesia, pengalaman tinggal di negeri kanguru ini sangat berharga!

Di samping berbagai manfaatnya, hidup di negara asing tidak lepas dari berbagai tantangan. Penulis kerap dilanda perasaan sepi akibat jarak yang memisahkan dari keluarga dan sahabat di Indonesia. Walaupun teknologi komunikasi modern memungkinkan untuk tetap terhubung melalui panggilan telepon dan pesan singkat, tidak adanya interaksi langsung dengan orang-orang terdekat tetap terasa berat. Kemudian, tingginya biaya hidup, khususnya untuk akomodasi dan makanan siap saji, menjadi hambatan yang harus dihadapi. Kondisi ini mengharuskan penulis untuk lebih cermat dalam mengatur pengeluaran dan mengelola kebutuhan pribadinya secara mandiri.

Pengalaman #KaburAjaDulu penulis mencerminkan realitas hidup di Australia yang memiliki sisi positif dan negatif. Meskipun menawarkan kualitas hidup yang lebih baik dan peluang pengembangan diri, tinggal di luar negeri juga memerlukan penyesuaian dan keterampilan manajemen yang baik. 

Tren #KaburAjaDulu merupakan seruan untuk perubahan sistemik dan pencarian pelarian sementara. Tren ini menantang masyarakat Indonesia untuk mempertimbangkan pro dan kontra mencari peluang di luar negeri dibandingkan tetap tinggal di Indonesia. Fenomena ini juga menjadi peringatan bagi pemerintah Indonesia untuk meningkatkan kualitas hidup, mendukung inisiatif pemuda, dan menciptakan lapangan kerja. 

Pada akhirnya, masyarakat Indonesia menginginkan negara menjadi tempat yang lebih nyaman untuk berkembang, sekaligus dapat memperluas kesempatan pergi ke luar negeri. Keseimbangan ini akan memungkinkan pertumbuhan pribadi dan pembangunan nasional berjalan beriringan, menciptakan Indonesia yang lebih kuat dan lebih sejahtera, tempat kaum muda merasa terinspirasi untuk bertahan dan berkontribusi, daripada sekadar mencari pelarian. Pemerintah dan sektor swasta harus bekerja sama untuk menciptakan lebih banyak peluang kerja, meningkatkan program pendidikan dan pelatihan, serta menumbuhkan lingkungan yang mendorong inovasi dan kewirausahaan di semua kalangan. Jadi, sebelum memutuskan untuk ‘kabur’, penting bagi kita untuk memikirkan matang-matang dan mempersiapkan semuanya dengan baik.

Ditulis oleh Argi Afriandi – AIYA Victoria

Disunting oleh Dinda Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor

Klik di sini untuk versi Bahasa Inggris.

Salah satu program menarik dari AIYA adalah Language Exchange (LX) yang merupakan program semi-formal pembelajaran bahasa Indonesia dan bahasa Inggris terhadap pemuda-pemudi Australia dan Indonesia. Program ini dilaksanakan di banyak cabang AIYA di Australia dan Indonesia termasuk di AIYA Victoria yang dilakukan hampir di setiap hari Rabu pukul 6 sore di Kathleen Syme Library and Community Centre. 

LX membuka pengetahuan baru tentang Australia dan Indonesia

“Bagi saya pribadi, LX banyak membuka pengetahuan-pengetahuan baru mengenai Indonesia dan Australia. Yang paling saya ingat adalah penjelasan mengenai perbedaan sistem hukum Australia dan Indonesia di mana di Australia, hakim lebih menjadi sebagai seorang pengamat dan pengacara sangat aktif berargumen satu sama lain. Sedangkan di Indonesia, hakim dan jaksa lebih dominan di persidangan dengan memberikan banyak pertanyaan.”, ungkap Argi, salah satu fasilitator dan peserta LX.

Menurutnya, pembahasan perbedaan sistem hukum itu sangat menarik. Ditambah dengan adanya film dokumenter Netflix: Ice Cold yang sedikit membahas hukum di Indonesia. Saat tayangan ini sedang tren di Indonesia pada akhir bulan September, LX juga mengangkat pembahasan film ini dengan berdiskusi tentang bagaimana bingkai media Indonesia dalam kasus ini. Dalam diskusi ini juga dibahas tentang proses hukum di Indonesia, opini masyarakat Indonesia terutama di sosial media, dan teori-teori konspirasi yang banyak beredar. 

LX juga membahas topik-topik menarik lainnya, termasuk tentang Suku Pedalaman. Topik ini membahas mengenai suku-suku pedalaman di Indonesia termasuk sejarah dan program-program televisi Indonesia yang berhubungan dengan suku pedalaman. Salah satu hal yang mengejutkan dalam pembahasan ini adalah fakta bahwa salah satu suku pedalaman yaitu Suku Anak Dalam di Jambi menghadapi ancaman penyakit malaria dan kehilangan hutan sebagai tempat tinggal. Pembahasan mengenai suku pedalaman ini membuat sedih peserta LX dan merasa khawatir mengenai isu ini. 

Topik menarik lainnya adalah pembahasan mengenai “hantu” yang terdapat di Indonesia. Pembahasan tentang hantu ini menarik banyak perhatian peserta LX. Pada topik ini, peserta LX mempelajari nama-nama hantu, mitos dan fakta di balik cerita horor dalam masyarakat. Salah satu contohnya adalah pembahasan sebuah penelitian yang menjelaskan bahwa munculnya cerita hantu perempuan dalam masyarakat seperti Sundel Bolong merupakan upaya untuk mengurangi kejahatan pada malam hari terutama terhadap perempuan. 

Selain itu, banyak sekali topik-topik menarik lainnya di LX AIYA Victoria seperti menonton film pendek, membuat “Pantun”, membahas makanan tradisional, mempelajari pemilihan umum di Indonesia, belajar bahasa daerah, penampilan multilingual poetry oleh Ibu Yacinta Kurniasih, penampilan Monologue Topeng DAM oleh Wawan Sofwan, dan lainnya. 

LX mempererat hubungan antara pemuda Australia dan Indonesia

Selain menyajikan pembahasan tentang berbagai topik menarik tentang kedua negara, LX juga menjadi tempat untuk bersosialisasi antara pemuda. Salah satu topik LX adalah “pasar malam” di mana peserta LX belajar tentang pasar malam yang ada di Indonesia, kemudian berkunjung dan jalan-jalan menikmati pasar malam di Queen Victoria Market. Selain itu, biasanya setelah pertemuan LX, para peserta akan makan malam bersama di restoran Indonesia di Melbourne. Annabelle, salah seorang fasilitator dan peserta LX tahun 2023 mengungkapkan bahwa LX memperkuat hubungan pertemanannya dengan pemuda Indonesia. LX juga membuat dirinya banyak mencoba makanan-makanan Indonesia. 

“Saat saya bergabung dengan AIYA, saya tidak tahu apa yang diharapkan dari LX selain peningkatan kemampuan bahasa. Setelah setahun di LX, saya menjalin banyak persahabatan yang kuat dan mendapatkan apresiasi yang lebih mendalam terhadap Indonesia. LX adalah tempat yang bersahabat dan nyaman di mana saya menjadi lebih melek budaya Indonesia dan Australia. Saya senang belajar tentang budaya pop Indonesia, identitas dan stereotip daerah serta mencoba makanan baru di restoran Indonesia dekat LX.”, kata Annabelle.

LX juga merupakan tempat bersosialisasi pemuda Australia dan Indonesia dengan melakukan kerjasama program antar chapter AIYA. Di tahun 2023, AIYA Victoria bersama dengan AIYA NTT menyelenggarakan LX dengan tema pariwisata. AIYA Victoria menjelaskan mengenai pariwisata populer yang terdapat di Victoria dan AIYA NTT menjelaskan mengenai berbagai tempat pariwisata terbaik di Nusa Tenggara Timur.

Pada akhirnya, LX tidak hanya menjadi wadah untuk pemuda pemudi belajar bahasa Indonesia, namun juga belajar mengenai budaya, hukum, politik, lingkungan dan isu-isu menarik lainnya. LX juga menjadi tempat untuk membentuk pertemanan antar pemuda Australia dan Indonesia. Jadi untuk kamu yang berada di Melbourne dan sekitarnya, jangan lupa untuk datang ke acara LX. Acara LX tahun 2024 juga akan dilaksanakan secara hybrid untuk anggota AIYA yang berada di Victoria namun jauh dari Melbourne supaya semua anggota AIYA Victoria bisa bergabung LX. Untuk info lebih lengkapnya, follow Instagram AIYA_Victoria dan Facebook Australia-Indonesia Youth Association – AIYA Victoria.

Written by Argi Afriandi – AIYA Victoria

Edited by Dinda Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor

Click here for Bahasa Indonesia version.

One of the most interesting programs from AIYA is Language Exchange (LX) which is the semi-formal learning of Indonesian and English language for the youth of Australia and Indonesia. This program is implemented in many chapters of AIYA in Australia and Indonesia including in AIYA Victoria which is conducted almost every Wednesday at 6 pm in Kathleen Syme Library and Community Centre. 

LX opens up new knowledge about Australia and Indonesia

“For me personally, LX has opened up a lot of new knowledge about Indonesia and Australia. What I remember most was the explanation about the differences between the Australian and Indonesian legal systems, where in Australia, judges are more observers and lawyers are very active in arguing with each other. Meanwhile in Indonesia, judges and prosecutors are more dominant in court by asking lots of questions.”, said Argi, one of the LX facilitators and participants.

According to him, the discussion of differences in legal systems was very interesting. Plus, there is the Netflix documentary film: Ice Cold which discusses the law in Indonesia a little. When this documentary became trending in Indonesia at the end of September, LX also discussed this film by discussing how the Indonesian media framed this case, the legal process in Indonesia, the opinions of Indonesian people, especially on social media and the conspiracy theories that were widely circulating.

LX also discusses other interesting topics. One of them is the topic of Inland Tribes. This topic discusses inland tribes in Indonesia, including history and Indonesian television programs related to inland tribes. One of the surprising things is the fact that one of the interior tribes, namely the Suku Anak Dalam in Jambi, is facing the threat of malaria and loss of forests as a place to live. The discussion about inland tribes made LX participants sad and worried about this issue.

Another interesting topic is the discussion about “ghosts” in Indonesia. The discussion about ghosts attracted a lot of attention from LX participants. On this topic, LX participants learn the names of ghosts, myths and facts behind horror stories in society. One example is a discussion of a study which explains that the emergence of female ghost stories in society such as Sundel Bolong is an effort to reduce crime at night, especially against women.

Apart from that, there are lots of other interesting topics at LX’s AIYA Victoria such as watching short films, making “Pantun”, discussing traditional food, learning about general elections in Indonesia, practising regional languages, multilingual poetry performances by Mrs. Yacinta Kurniasih, Mask Monologue DAM performances by Wawan Sofwan, and others.

LX strengthens relations between Australian and Indonesian youth

Apart from having conversations on interesting topics about the two countries, LX is also a place for socialising between young people. One of the LX topics is “night markets” where LX participants learn about night markets in Indonesia. Participants then visit and enjoy the night market at Queen Victoria Market. Apart from that, usually after the LX meeting, the participants will have dinner together at an Indonesian restaurant in Melbourne. Annabelle, one of the facilitators and LX participants in 2023, revealed that LX strengthened its friendship with Indonesian. LX also made himself try a lot of Indonesian food.

“When I joined AIYA, I didn’t know what to expect from LX other than improving language skills. After a year of LX, I have made many strong friendships and gained a deeper appreciation for Indonesia. LX is a friendly and comfortable space where I have become more literate in both Indonesian and Australian cultures. I have loved learning about Indonesian pop culture, regional identities and stereotypes and trying new foods at Indonesian restaurants near LX.”, said Annabelle.

LX is also a place for Australian and Indonesian youth to socialize by collaborating on joint programs with AIYA chapters. In 2023, AIYA Victoria with AIYA NTT conducted LX with a tourism theme. On this topic, AIYA Victoria explained the popular tourist attractions in Victoria and AIYA NTT explained the best tourism spots in East Nusa Tenggara.

In the end, LX becomes a forum for young people not only to learn Indonesian but also to learn about culture, law, politics, the environment and other interesting issues. LX is also a place to form friendships between Australian and Indonesian youth. So for those of you who are in Melbourne and the surrounding area, don’t forget to come to the LX event. The 2024 LX event will also be held in hybrid for AIYA members who are in Victoria but far from Melbourne so that all AIYA Victoria members can join LX. For more information, follow Instagram AIYA_Victoria and Facebook Australia-Indonesia Youth Association – AIYA Victoria.

Indonesian version, click here.

AIYA Webinar Series Report by AIYA Queensland

Recycling, using keep-cups and limiting our personal water usage, are all examples of things that we can do to be more sustainable as individuals. However, if we are truly to manage the environmental sustainability crisis, our efforts must transcend our personal lives and we must learn to be equally sustainable in our careers. 

In late April, AIYA Queensland held a webinar in partnership with the Indonesian Students Association (PPIA) Queensland and Universitas Indonesia’s Society of Renewable Energy. The webinar, titled, ‘Integrating Sustainability: Career and Day-to-day’, examined how students and young professionals can be more sustainable, both in their careers and their everyday lives. We heard from two industry experts, Yuriz Mayolie and Adenanthera Fatma. Yuriz works as a process control graduate at South32, a global mining and resource company, while Adenanthera is the directorate of OISAA and a regional focal point Asia-Pacific SDG 7 UN Youth envoy. 

We heard from Yuriz, who graduated from the University of Queensland with a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, how it is possible to have a sustainable career in an industry such as mining. Yuriz began by explaining that sustainability in her workplace, means integrating processes that reduce environmental footprints. This includes processes that are carbon-neutral, waterless, low cost and processes that positively contribute to host communities and environments. Adenanthera taught us about the importance of the United Nations seventh Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) – which is to, “ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.”

Source: Motion Talks: AIYA QLD Instagram

With over 40 attendees, this event was a success and only proved that young professionals – from both Australia and Indonesia – are equally passionate about safeguarding their future from climate change and the adverse effects of industrial pollution.  

Event Participants. Source: Motion Talks: AIYA QLD Instagram

Ditulis oleh Dinda Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor

Citra saat ini menjabat sebagai AIYA Jakarta Chapter President. Ia berasal dari Tangerang, namun telah lama tinggal di Yogyakarta untuk bekerja dengan Australian Consortium In-Country Indonesian Studies (ACICIS). Citra memulai perjalannya di AIYA sebagai Treasurer di AIYA Jakarta Chapter pada akhir tahun 2018, dan menjadi Chapter President di tahun berikutnya. Di tahun 2020, ia kemudian terpilih kembali menjadi presiden untuk yang kedua kalinya.

Bagaimana Anda pertama kali mengetahui AIYA?

Pertama kali saya tau AIYA itu dari pekerjaan, saya bekerja untuk ACICIS yang memfasilitasi mahasiswa Australia dan mahasiswa internasional untuk belajar di Indonesia. Di tahun pertama saya bekerja, ada kolega dan alumni ACICIS yang sedang merintis AIYA Yogyakarta Chapter. Saya tau AIYA saat AIYA Yogyakarta Chapter baru awal mulai diadakan. Dari sana, saya jadi sering datang ke berbagai acara AIYA di Jogja. 

Mengapa Anda ingin bergabung dan berkontribusi di AIYA?

Hal yang membuat saya ingin menjadi AIYA member adalah ketika saya pindah ke Jakarta. Saat itu saya sendirian dan hanya punya beberapa kolega, kemudian saya tertarik ikut AIYA karena mau memperbanyak teman dan network di Jakarta. Kebetulan, saat itu sedang ada posisi kosong untuk Treasurer, dan untungnya saya diterima. Kemudian di 2019, saya mendaftar sebagai Chapter President dengan tujuan untuk berkontribusi lebih ke AIYA karena saya melihat bahwa AIYA Jakarta Chapter punya banyak potensi, dan supaya chapternya bisa lebih baik. 

Dinner with AIYA Jakarta (sebelum pandemi COVID-19)

AIYA JKT 2019-2020 Committee

Bagaimana perjalanan Anda di AIYA?

Tantangan yang awalnya saya hadapi di AIYA Jakarta Chapter adalah sulit untuk mengatur waktu dan menyesuaikan jadwal dengan semua pengurus dalam satu waktu saat ada pertemuan atau acara. Ini karena kebanyakan dari mereka merupakan profesional muda dan mahasiswa yang punya kegiatan dan pekerjaan masing-masing. 

Tapi senang saya juga karena di AIYA kita bisa bertemu dengan banyak orang yang dapat menginspirasi. Saya senang bekerja sama dengan semua pengurus karena semua orang punya cara-masing-masing untuk menginspirasi yang lainnya. Selalu ada hal yang bisa saya pelajari dari seseorang di AIYA Jakarta. Mereka punya banyak potensi, mereka professional, beragam dan kepribadiannya membuat kita merasa nyaman untuk kerja dan hangout dengan mereka.

AIYA JKT 2020-2021 Committee

Apa yang Anda pelajari dari keterlibatan Anda di AIYA?

Banyak skill yang saya pelajari dari AIYA, antara lain kepemimpinan dan networking karena kita dituntut untuk percaya diri dan bisa memimpin tim. Dengan kondisi pandemi sekarang, kita juga dituntut untuk bisa beradaptasi, misalnya terkait event planning di mana kita harus melakukan shifting program dari offline ke online. Selain itu, dengan bergabung di AIYA, kita juga meningkatkan kesadaran budaya karena kita ketemu sama orang dari berbagai negara dan berbagai latar belakang, itu juga membuat kita jadi orang yang berpikiran terbuka.

AIYA JKT End of Year Nongkrong and Networking

Terkait kemampuan adaptasi dan strategi tim, AIYA Jakarta juga menerapkan roster atau melakukan pergantian peran utama. Misalnya untuk acara pertama akan dipegang oleh X, acara kedua oleh Y, dan seterusnya. Strategi ini dilakukan agar tanggung jawab utama tidak hanya ditimpakan pada satu orang saja. Karena mottonya adalah team effort, gak ada yang bekerja sendirian.

Mengapa Anda merekomendasikan untuk bergabung dengan AIYA?

AIYA adalah platform yang mengumpulkan inspirator-inspirator muda dalam satu kelompok. Dalam AIYA, kamu dapat menemukan orang-orang yang membantu dan ingin saling berkontribusi. Mereka itu luar biasa. Karena ketika kamu melihat orang lain, kamu bakal terpacu dan termotivasi untuk jadi orang yang lebih baik lagi.

Kamu harus join AIYA karena di sini adalah tempat untuk memperbanyak teman, dan itu bisa membawa kita ke hal baik lainnya. Bergabung di AIYA juga meningkatkan kepercayaan diri, meningkatkan kepemimpinan, bahkan memulai ceritamu di lingkup Australia-Indonesia, bisa dalam karir, pertemanan, pendidikan, dan lainnya.

Selain itu, AIYA juga menginspirasi saya untuk berkontribusi tidak hanya dalam lingkup Australia-Indonesia, namun dalam cakupan lebih besar yaitu Australia-ASEAN, di mana saya bergabung menjadi salah satu board director di sana.

Like what you read? Join applications are now open for the Board of Directors & Special Projects, please visit our recruitment page for more information.

Indonesian (original) version, click here.

Written by Meylisa Sahan – AIYA Member
Translated by Lotte Troost – AIYA National Content Translator 
Edited by Dinda Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor

Cover illustration adapted by Indonesian short film “Turut Berduka Cita”. (credits: Candra – AIYA National Graphic Designer)

Click here to watch the film.

At least once in our lives, we have all visited the home of a relative who is grieving the loss of a family member. A crowd of people express their condolences and come with dark clothing as a symbol of mourning. At each corner outside the funeral home, one can find multiple bouquets with various phrases, and it feels like direct communication is incomplete without flowers. This situation depicts the ideal version of visiting a funeral home.

Turut Berduka Cita is one of the simply arranged films but has a strong moral message concerning the loss of someone. So far, when watching a film that tells the story of being “left behind,” it will depict the main character bursting into tears, locking him/herself up, being depressed and passive. Meanwhile in this film, Maria, who feels a deep sorrow because of the loss of her father, is portrayed differently. She is portrayed as a strong, tough, and sincere person in this situation as if Maria were prepared for it. The calm way she tells each visitor the same story about the seconds before her father died, proves this. It is always the same story, starting from his cough and shortness of breath, being given medicine that was put under the tongue, brought to the hospital, still asking whether Maria had taken a shower or not, eating chicken noodles from Mr. Agus’ restaurant until the moment he died at midnight. It looks like Maria is giving a press briefing.

What can we learn from Maria’s story? The answer is empathy. We do not see the sense of empathy in this film, not even after the first second of the beginning of the film. The reactions of each griever further reinforced this. They compared the first treatment with one another, accusing that the medications given by the doctor are not good enough because of the numerous chemicals, as if the efforts made by Maria’s family had been in vain, and then they discussed the matter of the deceased’s diet. The most annoying was a woman who came to mourn and said “he already suffered too much, perhaps this is all for the best”- which doesn’t need to be said to people who have just lost someone. 

As reported by klikdokter.com, the phrase “It’s God’s Way” (Sudah Jalan Tuhan) is one of several phrases that are not very appropriate to pass on in the funeral home. Well, simply everyone wants to continue being with their family, and if possible, they ask for God’s way to be made easier to stay together, right? From this article, I concluded that there are still many people out there who need to be explained and informed about what to do and what not to do when going to a funeral home. We must still remember mourning as if death does not guarantee that one will escape the sight of others. Whenever a mourning event occurs, I always inwardly shout “be sensitive!”- taking a picture with someone who is grieving is the most disrespectful thing I can think of; what is the essence? 

 This film carries a simple mission, on the habits of our society in coming to funeral homes, from the past until today. It portrays a habit that persists and is practiced without being aware of it. People who grieve just want to grieve; they don’t want to tell the story of death over and over again because it’s painful, not to mention the responses they receive instead seem to be belittling. Because she was questioned so often, Maria was even confused when facing a man who came and told her about the kindness of her father while broke out in tears. This is what people should have done earlier, other than crying, at least focus on discussing the kindness of the deceased or at best ask nothing. 

 I genuinely enjoyed this short film; even forever, it will become my criterion for taking care of my words and my behaviour when visiting a funeral home. The strength of the dialogue has again become the essential thing in this film, not exploring the camera angles that much, but the changing actors and the ever-changing responses are the key points from the whole story in this film.

 One day, if you are grieving, make sure you come, express your sorrow, and go home.

Indonesian (original) version, click here.

Written by Dinda Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor
Translated by Lotte Troost – AIYA National Content Translator

Bubur (porridge) is one of the well-known traditional foods amongst Indonesian people, and it is often eaten for breakfast. Due to its popularity, this food can be found easily and is sold in almost any location, including restaurants, street vendors and mobile porridge makers. The most common types of Indonesian porridge are bubur ayam, bubur sumsum, and bubur kacang hijau. However, due to Indonesia’s culinary richness, it won’t be surprising if you have not yet tasted or even heard of bubur bassang, bubur barobbo, bubur gunting and other types of porridge. Certain types of porridge are famous throughout the country, while you can find other porridge varieties only in certain areas.  

Bubur is typically made from rice cooked in boiling water until it becomes soft. Some of the porridge is very liquid, and you can easily chew it. Apart from rice, the basic ingredients of Indonesian porridge also diversify, ranging from green beans, rice flour, black sticky rice and more. Porridge contains several ingredients and nutrients that are healthy to our body, such as carbohydrates, protein, vitamin, and fibre.

The history of porridge in Indonesian cuisine

Bubur has been part of traditional Indonesian cuisine since the Dutch colonial period. In a report by kompas.com, Murdijati Gardjito, a professor and food researcher at Gadjah Mada University, said that during the colonial period, porridge was eaten when the harvest was delayed or failed. People also consumed porridge during a rice crisis or when they didn’t have the means to buy enough rice. The local people mixed it with a lot of water to meet dietary needs, and it became a porridge. Besides, Javanese people interpret porridge as a symbol of equity because porridge can serve more people. 

“Bubur is four times richer in water than rice. A kilogram of rice can serve up to 15 people, but four litres of bubur can serve up to 40 people, especially when mixed with root vegetables,” Murdijati explained.

Indonesian porridge varieties

Before further discussion on whether we should stir porridge or not, it would be good to learn about the types of porridge in Indonesia first:

• Bubur ayam

This type of porridge has spread throughout Indonesia but first appeared on the island of Java. Bubur ayam consists of rice that is cooked until it becomes porridge. This porridge is served with yellow coconut milk and toppings such as shredded chicken, fried soybeans, sliced onion leaves, fried onions, fried dough slices, soy sauce, sweet soy sauce and crackers. The meal is usually also supplemented with gizzard liver satay, intestinal satay and quail egg satay.

Bubur ayam

• Bubur sumsum 

This porridge is often served during traditional Javanese ceremonies, especially weddings. So, it is said that this porridge originates from Central Java and East Java. Although originally from Java, this porridge has spread across the archipelago. This porridge has a very soft texture, so it suits all ages. The main ingredients for bubur sumsum are rice flour, coconut milk and brown sugar. Rice flour and coconut milk are cooked until it becomes thick, and it’s added with pandan leaves and salt to enrich the taste. You can serve the sumsum porridge either warm or cold.

Bubur sumsum

• Bubur mengguh

At first sight, this porridge looks like bubur ayam, but it’s different actually. You can only find this traditional food on the Island of Gods, Bali. The local people refer to it as bubuh. This type of porridge is prepared in the same way as bubur ayam since both are made from rice. However,  bubur mengguh is cooked with coconut milk and bay leaves and is served with spiced shredded chicken dipped in thick chicken sauce and served with vegetable urap. You can also add fried peanuts and fried onions.

Bubur mengguh

• Bubur bassang

This porridge originates from Makassar, South Sulawesi and is made with corn and thick coconut milk. The type of corn used is not the regular sweet corn, but pulut corn instead. The combination of sweetness and savory comes solely from the corn and coconut milk.

Bubur bassang

• Bubur gunting

Quite a unique name, isn’t it? This porridge is called gunting because the process of making this porridge requires some scissors or gunting. It is made from glutinous rice flour, pandan leaves, salt and coconut milk. This porridge originates from Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan.

Bubur gunting

• Bubur tinutuan/Bubur manado

As the name implies, this porridge originates from Manado, North Sulawesi. Bubur tinutuan is a mixture of rice, sweet potato, sweet corn, and vegetables such as young melinjo leaves, spinach, kale leaves, and basil leaves. The spices used are salt, lemongrass, green onions, and turmeric leaves. You can supplement bubur tinutuan with salted fish and sambal dabu-dabu.

Bubur tinutuan

• Bubur barobbo 

This porridge is a traditional food from South Sulawesi. Bubur barobbo is made from pulut corn mixed with various vegetables, sliced chicken or shrimp, and corn fritters. You only need some basic spices for this porridge, such as cinnamon, pepper, onion, garlic, nutmeg, tomato, and salt.

Bubur barobbo

In addition to the different types of porridge mentioned above, there are still many other types of traditional Indonesian porridge. Although all these types are known as porridge, their basic ingredients, taste, and appearance are definitely different. Indonesian cuisine is very unique and diverse, isn’t it! If you want to know more about the various traditional Indonesian porridges, the Ministry of Education and Culture’s National Agency for Language Development and Cultivation has summarized it very well!

The debate about stirred or unstirred porridge

Illustration. (credits: Udit – AIYA National Graphic Designer)

For today’s active internet users, “is the porridge stirred or not?” may sound familiar. This quote calls into question our preferences and how we eat porridge, generally bubur ayam or other rice-based porridge. For some people, porridge will be more delicious if eaten stirred, with the rice porridge mixed along with spices and toppings, so they can’t eat it separately. However, some people dislike their porridge to be stirred. They prefer to eat porridge with the rice porridge separated and with the additional ingredients and toppings on its top.

Unstirred porridge (left) VS Stirred porridge (right)

The debate about both ways of eating porridge is also related to science. As cited from the Idntimes article, stirred porridge is better than unstirred porridge. This is because all the ingredients are mixed evenly so our stomach can digest it easily. Though, eating unstirred porridge is not a bad thing either. The unstirred porridge is more pleasing to the eye than the stirred porridge. This opinion is in line with results of a joint study by the University of Oxford, University of Birmingham, and BI Norwegian Business School in the journal Flavor in 2014. This study reveals that that presenting food in an aesthetically pleasing manner can enhance the experience of a dish. In particular, the use of artistic (visual) influences can enhance a diner’s rating of the flavour of a dish.

Whether stirred or not, porridge has become part of many people’s lives. Its nutritional value is good, and the soft texture is also beneficial for some people. For example, people who just got braces, they could avoid moving their mouth and jaw too much. It can be difficult for them to chew, so eating porridge is one of the best food options. Moreover, porridge is also good for people who feel sick because they can easily digest the porridge, and chewing doesn’t require much energy. 

In conclusion, this difference of preference between porridge being stirred or not isn’t a matter of serious debate but is simply a matter of entertainment among the Indonesian people. Both have a million benefits for the body. No matter how you enjoy your porridge meal, always respect other people who eat it differently from yours! 

So… are you part of the stirred porridge team or the unstirred porridge team? Choose your fighter!

Indonesian (original) version, click here.

Researched and written by Dinda Amalia Ichsani – AIYA National Blog Editor
Translated by Lotte Troost – AIYA National Content Translator

“Neighbours by geography, and friends by choice”, is a quote that refers to the relationship between Australia and Indonesia. This close relationship between the two countries has been long-standing. As close relatives, the two countries share many similarities, spirit, and cooperation that go hand in hand as kinship foundations between Australia and Indonesia. But of course, historically these two countries have a different story. As a result, Australia’s and Indonesia’s conditions and population dynamics also differ, both spatially and temporally.

Birth or fertility, death or mortality, and population displacement or migration are three factors that influence the population growth rate. These three factors have a correlation with the population pyramid, population projection and demographic transition. The population pyramid is a graphic illustration that shows the population’s composition by age group and gender. The population projection is a calculation of the future population, based on the developmental direction of fertility, mortality and migration. Meanwhile, the demographic transition is a condition that illustrates changes in the demographic parameters.

The Situation in Australia

Changes in Australia’s population structure are characterized by a mixture of an increasing group of older adults and a relatively declining group of young people in relation to the total population. The population pyramid that develops year by year reflects this situation. It illustrates a shift from the 1925 pyramid that has a broader base, indicating a large group at the young age band, and a small top for the older adult age group, to a pyramid with a more uniform distribution of the young age group and productive age group in 2000. This pyramid eventually starts to take on the shape of a “coffin” by 2050, with all age groups being distributed relatively the same.  

Changing age structure of the Australian population, 1925-2045 (Sumber: Productivity Commission, 2005)

Right now, Australia appears to be in the fourth stage of the demographic transition model. This fourth stage characterizes low stability in which both birth rates and mortality rates show a downward trend. This situation means that Australia is experiencing a demographic transition towards an ageing population, with an increasing proportion of people in the oldest age group and a decreasing proportion of people in the youngest age group. At this stage in the demographic transition, the working-age population is growing more rapidly than the total population due to a continuous decline in the average number of children born to a woman and declining mortality rates in all age groups.

Birth Rate and Death Rate of Australia, 1950-2010 

Demographic transition of Australia, 1921-2051

Several factors have contributed to Australia’s ageing population. One factor is that families choose to have fewer children. Family planning programs, contraceptive education, and an increased female labour force also contribute to this factor. Secondly, mortality rates have declined with increased survival until old age. Due to scientific and medical findings, improved hygienic practices and knowledge about health’s importance, the mortality rate has declined. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2005), Australia’s mortality trend is mostly driven by a significant reduction in deaths from all major causes, including a reduction in infectious disease-related mortality of about 96%, an 80% reduction in respiratory diseases and 70% for vehicle accidents.

The situation in Indonesia

Indonesia’s population pyramid, based on data from the Population Census of 1971, 1980, 1990 and 2000, shows changes in the age structure of the Indonesian population. The 1971 and 1980 Indonesian population pyramids show a large proportion of the population at the young age band due to the many young people (0 – 14 years). Meanwhile, the 1990 and 2000 population pyramids show an increasing middle and upper part of the pyramid, while the lower part of the pyramid has decreased. This situation indicates that Indonesia has a growing adult and elderly population.

Indonesia’s population pyramid in 1971, 1980, 1990, dan 2000 (Source: Sensus penduduk)

The 2010 population pyramid shows a high number of young people again, being the largest population group. Meanwhile, the 2020 population pyramid seems to project a decline in the 0 – 4 age group due to a declining number of births. Then, in 2035, the population aged 0 – 14 years is expected to decrease significantly, meaning that the birth rate also reduces. With the population’s development, the middle part of the pyramid will swell, meaning that the productive age category will grow. The elderly population (> 65 years) will also increase significantly, indicating that the mortality rate will decrease.

Indonesia’s population pyramid in 2010, 2020, 2035 (Source: Heryanah, 2005)

Unlike Australia, Indonesia is now at the third stage of demographic transition. This third stage is also known as the late expanding stage because both the mortality rate and the birth rate are decreasing at a slower pace, resulting in population growth that starts to level off.

Crude Birth Rate trend (CBR), Crude Mortality Rate (CDR) and Population Growth Rate, 1990-2025

Indonesia’s declining birth rate results from its national family planning program campaign of two children being enough to achieve a happy and prosperous family. Besides, cheap contraceptives have become more widely available, and contraceptive services have been made available in rural areas. In the health sector, health programs have further improved with the development of Puskesmas services to connect people to cheap health care facilities, nutrition improvement programs for mothers, babies and toddlers, and vaccination of babies and their mothers to reduce infant mortality.

Along with the success of the family planning program in reducing fertility rates, there has been a decline in the population group aged 15 and younger. A continuous increasing working-age population also accompanies this shift. Life expectancy has also increased and supports the expansion of the working-age population. Besides, Indonesia’s declining mortality rate has partly occurred due to various antibiotic drugs and health interventions in developed countries.

When looking at Indonesia’s population projection, it is expected that Indonesia will experience a demographic bonus period during which the number of people in the productive age population (15 – 64 years) will dominate the non-productive age (under 15 years and over 64 years). This condition offers both opportunities and challenges for Indonesia. The demographic bonus may benefit Indonesia because Indonesia will have strong competitiveness and negotiating power. This bonus will encourage investors to spend their money in Indonesia, which will create job opportunities and various facility improvements. However, suppose the government and society fail to take advantage of the demographic bonus. In that case, the working-age population will only carry a burden on the country. An increasing working-age population that is not accompanied by an increased quality of human resources will only result in a high unemployment rate. Therefore, government and society must cooperate to take advantage of this condition. Eventually, this condition can become a catalyst for a better Indonesia in the future.

REFERENCES

Productivity Commission 2005, Economic Implications of an Ageing Australia, Research Report, Canberra. 

Ofori-Asenso, Richard et al. (2018). Measures of Population Ageing in Australia from 1950 to 2050. Population Aging, 11:367–385 

Heryanah. (2015). Ageing Population dan Bonus Demografi Kedua di Indonesia. Populasi, 23(2), 1-16.