Blog
Home /
AIYA Blog

The Story of Refugees and Its Humanity in Makassar

When we talk about refugees, more often than not we don’t shade the lights to developing countries. Being excluded from the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees doesn’t mean these countries can turn their back on the refugees. In many cases, these countries had to welcome the refugees who got turned down from their destination countries.

With consents limited to only assisting refugees to their host countries, often these transit countries aren’t equipped with legal instruments and regulations. This absence has left the refugees distraught, with little help to be socially integrated and the bare minimum in meeting their basic needs.

More than 14,000 refugees are currently staying in Indonesia scattered from Aceh, Medan, Jakarta, Makassar to the East of Indonesia. To learn more about this issue, we spoke to Febrianti Hasanah, a community facilitator volunteer of UN Migration in Makassar. Also a Research Assistant, Febrianti is working on Constructing a Shared Identity; Engaging Youth in Creative Placemaking for Social Integration of Urban Refugees in Indonesia.

Read our full interview with Febrianti to find out about the issues and the people who fight tirelessly alongside it!

Read More

AIYA Links

AIYA Links: 10 January 2020

Photo: The Jakarta Post

Indonesia’s sinking capital of Jakarta and the surrounding areas have been inundated with rain, triggering landslides and floods that have killed dozens of people.

Read more here

 

In the news

  • Last month, Indonesia and Australia’s diplomatic relations marked a 70-year milestone. Indonesia is presented to be one of Australia’s most important neighbour and strategic ally, but there remain bumps in the relationship. Check out ABC’s coverage of the story in both English and Indonesian. (ABC Australia)
  • The new year brought natural disasters to both Australia and Indonesia. Yet, in the toughest time, both countries have offered each other support, with Australian and Indonesian politicians expressing their condolences and sympathies, as the Jakarta Post explains. (Jakarta Post)
  • Indonesia is closing in on its overall gender gap, according to the 2020 Gender Global Gap Impact. There are more women participating in the labor market, but fewer in politics. Devina Heriyanto of the Jakarta Post further discuss. (Jakarta Post)
  • As both Australia and Indonesia are set to capture the opportunities presented by IA-CEPA, Ghian Tjandraputra explores how young people can a critical role in boosting trade growth in both countries. Check out his presentation here. (Skills Futures)
  • Great news for fans of Indonesia’s rising star, Niki and Rich Brian. They are set to mark a new milestone being  the first Indonesians to perform at Coachella. More information here. (Coconuts.co)

 

In the blog

  • Commonly known as ‘Little China’, Lasem is a small city with a rich history as one of the first coastal settlements of Chinese-Indonesians, as well as thriving trade and business opportunities which dates back to the 13th century. Read about ‘Lost Lasem’ here. (English)

 

Events

  • Bandung, 6-17 January- Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia is holding a two weeks course on Indonesian culture and language with an Adult Language Immersion Course hosted by IndoAustay. It is a great way to improve language capabilities, while putting it into practice in real life situations. More information here.
  • Brisbane, 29 February – Indonesian Diaspora QLD in conjunction with Rotary Club Archerfield are organising a dinner event to raise funds to support communities who are affected by the current bushfire and drought, from 5:30pm at the Australian International Islamic College. Purchase tickets here.
  • Jakarta, 12 January- Join AIYA Jakarta for some exercise in Monas with AIYA touch rugby! Asik! Check it out disini.   
  • Melbourne, 15 January- AIYA VIC Language Exchange is back! Come practice both Bahasa Indonesia and English while playing some fun games to kick-start your new year. More information here.
  • Melbourne, 20 February – 28 March – Asia-Pacific Triennial of Performing Arts (Asia-TOPA) returns to celebrate the creative imagination of artists and cultures in the Asia-Pacific region. The events have shows showcasing the cultures of various Asian countries. Alumni of the University of Melbourne are eligible to receive a 15% discount. Check out out here.
  • Sydney, 13 February, The Indonesian Literature Club in Sydney is holding their next group discussion at Customs House Library. For registration and information email [email protected]

 

Opportunities

  • The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is seeking a Visitors Officer (ongoing, full time), based in Jakarta, to provide support in a fast-paced environment to manage high-level visits and acts as the central point of contact for accurately managing the Embassy contact database. Read more about the position here. Applications close 15 January 2020 (11.30pm Jakarta time).
  • The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is seeking a Research and Public Affairs Officer, based in Makassar, responsible for monitoring the local media, and reporting on developments relevant to Australian interests within Makassar and surrounding regions. Read more about the position here. Applications close 15 January 2020 (11.30pm Jakarta time).
  • Attend the VILTA Annual Conference! Held on 6 March 2020, don’t miss out on Victorian Indonesian Language Teachers’ Association’s biggest event with speakers and participants from around the state coming to discuss all things Indonesian. This event will be held in Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne. Register here.
  • Call for applications for the Alumni Grant Scheme (AGS) 2020! The AGS offers seed funding on a competitive basis for initiatives that create impact by putting your knowledge and skills to good use. The program provides up to AU$15,000, and up to 25 grants are available under the current AGS round. The AGS is open to all Indonesian nationals who have graduated from a recognised Australian tertiary institution, including those who are self-funded. It is also open to alumni of short-term studies or programs in Australia. See the guidelines – Submit your applications before 20 January 2020 at this link.
  • Pemberdayaan Perempuan Memerangi Kemiskinan (PPMK) is a microfinance organisation based in Yogyakarta that work to empower women to fight poverty. They also provide free English classes to children and are currently working to establish an English book library, so children can continue learning at home. They are seeking donations of new and secondhand English books. To coordinate any donations, contact PPMK on WhatsApp at +62 857-7610-7979 or at [email protected]. Learn more about PPMK’s work!
  • ACICIS is inviting all of its alumni to join the all-new alumni platform. It is packed with new features such as alumni directory, jobs and opportunities page, events page, interest-group pages, as well as other exciting features that will be added regularly. To sign-up, please visit their alumni website here.
  • Inside Indonesia publishes original pieces on a wide range of political, social, environmental and cultural issues in Indonesia. They accept articles from a diverse range of people who have an interest in Indonesia. To find out how to contribute, click here.
  • Applications for Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarships for Semester 2, 2020 closes TODAY. Click here to apply. 
  • Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project. 

 

Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!

 

AIYA Blog

Lost Lasem

Tiongkok Kecil Heritage Lasem – Jl. Karangturi / Author

Original post by : Inside Indonesia – Written by Vania Djunaidi

Three hours bus ride from Semarang in Central Java is Lasem, a small city with a rich history as one of the first coastal settlements of Chinese, who came seeking trading and business opportunities in the archipelago beginning in the 13th century. Many visitors come to Lasem for its famous ‘Batik Tulis’, a style combining Javanese and Chinese motifs and colours, revealing a merging of cultural influences.

The city is known as ‘Little Tiongkok’ (‘Little China’) with many preserved Chinese and Javanese influenced homes and temples dating back to 15th century, in the villages of Karangturi and Babangan. The commitment to heritage preservation of its hybrid Chinese and Javanese architectural treasures reveals the high level of cultural tolerance and mutual respect amongst the people of Lasem. This is a rare example in Indonesia, which has a history of resentment and violence towards the Chinese perpetuated under the New Order regime era from 1965-1998.

Rumah Oei

When I visited the famous and highly instagrammable ‘pink temple’ Cu An Kiong Temple at Jl. Dasun, I was greeted by a monumental statue capturing the battle between the VOC (Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (United East Indies Company)) and Javanese and Chinese troops in 1740-1743. Beneath the monument is a plaque summarising the battle, describing the death toll as one of the highest within East and Central Java, and commemorating its contribution to the independence of Indonesia as a nation. This historic event stands as a symbol of the tolerance, harmony and mutual respect among the people of Lasem.

Monumen Perjuangan Laskar Tiong Hoa dan Jawa Melawan VOC 1740-1743 at Cu An Kion Temple Part of Cu An Kiong Temple

Part of Cu An Kiong Temple

‘It does not matter if you are Chinese, Muslim, Chinese-Christian, Chinese-Muslim, we are all the same’, said the woman who was minding the Gie Yong Temple at Jl. Babangan. Although the temple was empty when I arrived, it is her responsibility to open and take care of the temple every morning as many of her brothers and sisters have moved away to other cities inside and outside Java seeking better job opportunities. When asked if the temple gets busy during Chinese New Year, she shook her head and responded that it is ‘biasa-biasa saja, kayak sekarang’ (just the ordinary, like now).

Her story reveals Chinese Peranakan traditions are fading and becoming forgotten within a city that is strongly tied to a history of Chinese migration to Indonesia, but also to today’s reality of rural migration to the cities. It seems that its architectural fabric is all that remains of the historical evidence that has shaped this city. Many of the Chinese-influenced architectural homes have been turned into accommodation for tourists, like Rumah Oei (pictured above), where I stayed during my visit. The hope is that the industry can attract foreigners and boost Lasem’s potential as a tourist destination. However, since the train service to Lasem was closed in the 1990s, poor transport options and little promotion of the city means that it remains quiet and still far from experiencing the sort of tourist numbers visiting other parts of Java.

Po An Bio Temple, Jl. Karangturi, Lasem

Inside Po An Bio Temple, Jl. Karangturi, Lasem

Lasem’s architectural fabric encapsulates the diversity of Indonesia within its past and future, and may be among some of the last fragments of Chinese settlement in Indonesia. Its preservation should be of high importance for whilst it represents Indonesia’s enriched multicultural history it also acts as evidence that cultural tolerance and recognition of diversity can be achieved within modern Indonesia.

Vania Djunaidi ([email protected]) studies architecture at University of Technology, Sydney. She is interested in Indonesia’s built environment and its social and cultural impacts. All images: Vanie Djunaidi.

AIYA Links

AIYA Links: 27 December 2019

In the news

  • Merry Christmas dan Selamat Natal! Despite reports that christians in some regions faced problems as they were due to celebrate Christmas, religious groups and communities in many regions have proven that interfaith tolerance is still the norm in the archipelago. (Jakarta Post)
  • As trade rows escalate between Indonesia and the European Union, liquor and dairy from the continent has caught in the crossfires. What caused this? What are the impacts? Check out this article. (Jakarta Post)
  • Interested to see what the new Indonesian capital would look like? CNBC has a video on what the award-winning design look like. Ayo lihat di sini. (CNBC)
  • The end of the year marks the peak season for tourism for Bali. However, rural hamlets are under pressure as the famous balinese rice fields are disappearing beneath hotels and bars. Ian Lloyd Neubauer covers the story.  (Al Jazeera)

 

Events

  • Melbourne, 20 February – 28 March – Asia-Pacific Triennial of Performing Arts (Asia-TOPA) returns to celebrate the creative imagination of artists and cultures in the Asia-Pacific region. The events have shows showcasing the cultures of various Asian countries. Alumni of the University of Melbourne are eligible to receive a 15% discount. Check it out here.

 

Opportunities

  • The Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country’ Indonesian Studies (ACICIS) is seeking Yogyakarta Semester Buddies/Pendamping Are you a student or fresh graduate of a university in Jogja? Gain invaluable experience by assisting international students and learn Intercultural understanding! Read more here.
  • Attend the VILTA Annual Conference! Held on 6 March 2020, don’t miss out on Victorian Indonesian Language Teachers’ Association’s biggest event with speakers and participants from around the state coming to discuss all things Indonesian. This event will be held in Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne. Register here.
  • Join Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Justice 2 (AIPJ2) as a MEL Support Officer and play an integral role to manage quality reports using AIPJ2 MIS function. Position closes 5pm Jakarta time, Friday, 27 December 2019. Read more information here.
  • Danamon Bank are seeking highly talented fresh Indonesian graduates to be a Danamon Young Business Leader. You will experience the whole aspect of banking business and receive privileged exposure to the Top Executives and Senior Leaders. Your strategic thinking, creativity and business acumen will be incubated through in-class trainings, assignments and leadership challenge.You will also receive your own buddy and mentor in every phase of your journey with us. See the flyer and visit the website for more info and to register. Applications close at the end of December.

Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!

AIYA Links

AIYA Links: 20 December 2019

The 2019 AIYA Annual is almost here! Stay tuned for a yearly wrap up of all things AIYA, including the great events being held by our Chapters and written submissions from our talented members!

Read the 2018 Annual here

In the news

  • In 2015, Indonesia’s government committed to reducing greenhouse gasses by 29% by 2030. One way to do this is by appealing is by appealing to the villages. But is there enough understanding of climate change in the smallest administrations? Have funds been used properly. Check it out here. (The Conversation)
  • Meet Indonesia’s carbon guardian: the Mangrove trees! These trees are an incredibly effective tool against climate change. But they are being cut down to grow shrimps and Palm trees for us, consumers. Read more here. (Vox)
  • Last week, the earliest known cave art by modern human-like hunters were found in Indonesia. This artwork is 44,000 years old. Hebat ya! Check out the pictures here. (The Guardian)
  • Ahok, the ex-Jakarta governor, has been tasked with reducing crude oil import and weeding out graft at Pertamina, Indonesia’s state energy giant. But experts say an ongoing corruption case involving the former CEO shows how challenging it is to make business decisions at state-owned enterprises, as Aloysius Unditu wrote. (South China Morning Post)
  • This year, Jokowi renewed his vows to settle past abuse cases during his reelection campaign. But with his first term ending in little progress in the settlement of cases, which past human rights abuses cases is he going to tackle? Jakarta post highlights 10 cases which activists and victim families are advocating to be settled. (The Jakarta Post)

 

In the blog

  • Towards the end of the end of 2019, the Anak Timor Hitz community in Jakarta held an activity with the title Timorland Fest 2019 at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in order to welcome the 61st birthday of East Nusa Tenggara Province. Read more here.

 

Opportunities

  • The Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country’ Indonesian Studies (ACICIS) is seeking Yogyakarta Semester Buddies/Pendamping Are you a student or fresh graduate of a university in Jogja? Gain invaluable experience by assisting international students and learn Intercultural understanding!⁣ Read more here.
  • Attend the VILTA Annual Conference! Held on 6 March 2020, don’t miss out on Victorian Indonesian Language Teachers’ Association’s biggest event with speakers and participants from around the state coming to discuss all things Indonesian. This event will be held in Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne. Register here.
  • Join Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Justice 2 (AIPJ2) as a MEL Support Officer and play an integral role to manage quality reports using AIPJ2 MIS function. Position closes 5pm Jakarta time, Friday, 27 December 2019. Read more information here.
  • Danamon Bank are seeking highly talented fresh Indonesian graduates to be a Danamon Young Business Leader. You will experience the whole aspect of banking business and receive privileged exposure to the Top Executives and Senior Leaders. Your strategic thinking, creativity and business acumen will be incubated through in-class trainings, assignments and leadership challenge.You will also receive your own buddy and mentor in every phase of your journey with us. See the flyer and visit the website for more info and to register. Applications close at the end of December.
  • Call for applications for the Alumni Grant Scheme (AGS) 2020! The AGS offers seed funding on a competitive basis for initiatives that create impact by putting your knowledge and skills to good use. The program provides up to AU$15,000, and up to 25 grants are available under the current AGS round. The AGS is open to all Indonesian nationals who have graduated from a recognised Australian tertiary institution, including those who are self-funded. It is also open to alumni of short-term studies or programs in Australia. See the guidelines – Submit your applications before 20 January 2020 at this link.
  • Pemberdayaan Perempuan Memerangi Kemiskinan (PPMK) is a microfinance organisation based in Yogyakarta that work to empower women to fight poverty. They also provide free English classes to children and are currently working to establish an English book library, so children can continue learning at home. They are seeking donations of new and secondhand English books. To coordinate any donations, contact PPMK on WhatsApp at +62 857-7610-7979 or at [email protected]. Learn more about PPMK’s work!
  • ACICIS is inviting all of its alumni to join the all-new alumni platform. It is packed with new features such as alumni directory, jobs and opportunities page, events page, interest-group pages, as well as other exciting features that will be added regularly. To sign-up, please visit their alumni website here.
  • Inside Indonesia publishes original pieces on a wide range of political, social, environmental and cultural issues in Indonesia. They accept articles from a diverse range of people who have an interest in Indonesia. To find out how to contribute, click here.
  • Applications for Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarships for Semester 2, 2020 have opened. Apply today!
  • Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project.
AIYA Blog

Menuju Akhir Tahun bersama Timor Land Fest 2019

Photo by Anak Timor Hitz

Anak Timor Hitz merupakan salah satu komunitas asal pulau Timor, Nusa Tenggara Timur di Jakarta. Berdasarkan pantauan tim AIYA’s Blog melalui instagram, komunitas ini aktif membagikan informasi terkait budaya Timor dan  juga menjadi wadah penyalur bakat dan minat anak-anak Timor.

Menuju akhir akhir tahun 2019, komunitas Anak Timor Hitz di Jakarta menyelenggarakan sebuah kegiatan dengan tajuk Timorland Fest 2019 dalam rangka menyambut hari ulang tahun Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Timur ke 61 pada 20 Desember 2019 mendatang.

Berlokasi di Anjungan Nusa Tenggara Timur – Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, kegiatan yang mengusung tema besar kebudayaan khas Timor ini dibuka dengan penampilan spesial dari anak-anak berbakat asal Timor yang membawakan tarian dan nyanyian. Berto Pah, seorang maestro sasando – alat musik NTT juga hadir memeriahkan acara ini.

Jhon Atti sedang menjelaskan ragam kain tenun yang digunakan oleh model

Kegiatan Timor Land Fest 2019 turut mengundang Jhon Atti seorang budayawan sekaligus fotografer asal Timor yang menaruh minat besar dalam melestarikan kain tenun NTT, khususnya Timor melalui foto. Beberapa karya beliau berupa juga dihadirkan dalam acara ini dalam bentuk pameran foto dan lukisan.

“Saya ingin melesatarikan kebudayaan lewat kain tenun dan menyampaikannya lewat lensa kamera berupa foto” ucap Jhon Atti.

Foto dan lukisan karya Jhon Atti yang dipamerkan dalam kegiatan Timor Land Fest 2019

Selain itu, ada juga Natalia Iggritha Deppa seorang mahasiswi asal Sumba yang juga menaruh perhatian besar terhadap tenun NTT. Selama ini, gadis yang akrab disapa Inggrit ini selalu menggunakan tenunan setiap harinya sebagai bentuk kampanye penggunaan kain tenun dan menjadikan tenun itu sebagai identitasnya.

“Kalau saya pribadi, mengusahakan setiap hari untuk minimal menggunakan kain tenun, karena saya berasal dari Sumba jadi kebanyakan saya menggunakan tenun Sumba” ungkap Inggrith.

Inggrith sedang memperagakan penggunaan kain tenun. Photo from @deppanatalia

Workshop mengenai kain tenun ini ditutup dengan peragaan penggunaan kain tenun sebagai busana tanpa perlu menggunakan jahitan yang diperagakan oleh Inggrith. Para pengunjung juga diberikan kebebasan untuk mencoba beberapa kain tenun yang disediakan panitia untuk digunakan sebagai properti foto.

Selama acara berlangsung, peserta kegiatan ini juga dapat menikmati kuliner khas Timor yaitu Jagung Ketemak – yang merupakan olahan pangan lokal dari Timor dengan bahan dasar jagung yang direbus bersama kacang, daun pepaya dan sayur lainnya serta disajikan bersama ikan teri atau ikan asin dan sambal lu’at khas Timor. Ada pula makanan khas yang disajikan oleh panitia untuk membangkitkan atmosfir Timor yaitu ubi dan pisang rebus. Nikmat!

Jagung Ketemak khas Pulau Timor, Nusa Tenggara Timur

Timor Land Fest 2019 tidak hanya menampilkan kebudayaan khas dari Timor namun juga menghadirkan pengisi acara, tarian, nyanyian, kebudayaan dari berbagai pulau yang ada di Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Timur. Hal ini dilihat dari beberapa bintang tamu yang hadir menggunakan berbagai jenis kain tenun khas Nusa Tenggara Timur lengkap dengan aksesorisnya.

Acara ini ditutup dengan dansa bersama seluruh peserta yang hadir dan penampilan DJ asal Nusa Tenggara Timur. Timor Land Fest 2019 dapat menjadi sebuah awal yang baik dalam rangka penyebaran informasi terkait kebudayaan yang ada di Nusa Tenggara Timur, khususnya pulau Timor. Kegiatan ini juga dapat menjadi sebuah wadah untuk mempertemukan anak-anak Timor yang ada di tanah perantauan – Jakarta.

Congratulations, Anak Timor Hitz!

AIYA Links

AIYA Links: 13 December 2019

Photo: The Jakarta Post

A new OECD report shows that Indonesian students score among the lowest in science, reading and mathematics. What impact does this have on Indonesia’s economy? The Jakarta Post covered this story.

Read more here. 

In the news

  • So much is still unknown about China-Indonesia relations during the Cold War, in particular China’s role in the pivotal events of 30 September 1965. Check out Dr Charlotte Setiadji’s podcast with Dr Taomo Zhou on China, Indonesia and the Cold War.
  • Could Australian and Indonesian peacekeepers be co-deployed to a conflict zone in the future? SMH’s James Massola writes  on the annual “2+2” ministerial meeting in Denpasar last friday and its outcome. 
  • Australia and Indonesia have voiced concerns about the state of the South China Sea, issuing warning about China’s militarisation of the contested waters and urging adherence to international law. What can be done? Check out this SMH article.
  • Indonesia is finding out that the lack of comprehensive sexual education can lead to serious social outcomes. Ni Luh Putu Maitra Agastya and Marsha Habib writes on how using fear based approaches to preach abstinence will not improve Indonesia’s poor sexual health public awareness.
  • Who has ordered an Iced Coffee using GoFood? You would be one of 16 million purchasers! But how does this trend contribute to single-use plastic waste? Aduh! Gimana nih? What can be done? Check out this article.
  • One of Australia’s largest exports to Indonesia, live cattle, are again embroiled in scandal. Australian breeder cattle sold to Indonesia are ending up starving or dead. Read ABC’s article on it here.

 

In the blog

  • The AIC, the West Java Provincial Government and the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation have signed an agreement that will see them collaborate on research around integrated transport and logistics, focusing on development in the north-east region of the province, in an area known as the Rebana Golden Triangle. Check out AIYA’s story. 

 

Events

  • Bandung, 14 December – Ayo ikut AIYA Jawa Barat’s Year-end Party at Down to Earth Bandung. Celebrate the end of Semester, and say goodbye to ACICIS’ student from UNPAR.
  • Kupang, 14 December- Ayo datang ke AIYA goes to Campus! Share your experience being in AIYA or learn about english teaching in Indonesia from Mr. Ridwan Sedgwick a.k.a Pak’Le, a volunteer from Australia.
  • Melbourne, 18 December – Come to AIYA Vic’s LX every Wednesday at 6pm, RMIT Building 80.
  • Sydney, 14 December – Join AIA End of Year Dinner at Ayam Ayam restaurant. It is $30 for members and $35 for non-members. Register here.
  • Sydney, 15 December – The Indonesian Art and Culture Club (IACC) are hosting a fundraiser for the NSW Rural Fire Service at Brighton Le Sands Beach, 11am – 4pm. It will feature Indonesian dance, music, food and more. See the flyer.
  • Yogyakarta, 14 December- AIYA Yogyakarta collaborates with Monash University for some discussion and traditional games in “Monash GIG.” Register here.
  • Yogyakarta, 16 December – Stretch your muscles and play basketball with AIYA Yogyakarta, every second Monday from 7 – 9pm at UNY Basketball Court. See their IG for more details.

 

Opportunities

  • The Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country’ Indonesian Studies (ACICIS) is seeking Yogyakarta Semester Buddies/Pendamping Are you a student or fresh graduate of a university in Jogja? Gain invaluable experience by assisting international students and learn Intercultural understanding!⁣ Read more here.
  • The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Melbourne is looking for people to join us in a variety of roles. It is a 1-3 months unpaid internship programs and is a great taster of what it is like to work in a government organization and know how Indonesian Diplomats work. For further information, check here.
  • Attend the VILTA Annual Conference! Held on 6 March 2020, don’t miss out on Victorian Indonesian Language Teachers’ Association’s biggest event with speakers and participants from around the state coming to discuss all things Indonesian. This event will be held in Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne. Register here.
  • Join Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Justice 2 (AIPJ2) as a MEL Support Officer and play an integral role to manage quality reports using AIPJ2 MIS function. Position closes 5pm Jakarta time, Friday, 27 December 2019. Read more information here.
  • Danamon Bank are seeking highly talented fresh Indonesian graduates to be a Danamon Young Business Leader. You will experience the whole aspect of banking business and receive privileged exposure to the Top Executives and Senior Leaders. Your strategic thinking, creativity and business acumen will be incubated through in-class trainings, assignments and leadership challenge.You will also receive your own buddy and mentor in every phase of your journey with us. See the flyer and visit the website for more info and to register. Applications close at the end of December.
  • Apply for an internship with the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) NSW! Internships at AIIA NSW are offered to university students or recent graduates who have an interest in international affairs, and who are looking to further develop their skills for future professional involvement in international policy. For Semester 1 internships, applications are open from 15 November to 15 December 2019. Read more here.
  • The Asia Centre’s 5th International Conference will be held in Bangkok in July 2020. The conference will focus on ‘Hate Speech in Asia: Challenges and Solutions and is now accepting abstracts until 15 December 2019. Submit yours and/or register for the conference here.
  • Call for applications for the Alumni Grant Scheme (AGS) 2020! The AGS offers seed funding on a competitive basis for initiatives that create impact by putting your knowledge and skills to good use. The program provides up to AU$15,000, and up to 25 grants are available under the current AGS round. The AGS is open to all Indonesian nationals who have graduated from a recognised Australian tertiary institution, including those who are self-funded. It is also open to alumni of short-term studies or programs in Australia. See the guidelines – Submit your applications before 20 January 2020 at this link.
  • Pemberdayaan Perempuan Memerangi Kemiskinan (PPMK) is a microfinance organisation based in Yogyakarta that work to empower women to fight poverty. They also provide free English classes to children and are currently working to establish an English book library, so children can continue learning at home. They are seeking donations of new and secondhand English books. To coordinate any donations, contact PPMK on WhatsApp at +62 857-7610-7979 or at [email protected]. Learn more about PPMK’s work!
  • ACICIS is inviting all of its alumni to join the all-new alumni platform. It is packed with new features such as alumni directory, jobs and opportunities page, events page, interest-group pages, as well as other exciting features that will be added regularly. To sign-up, please visit their alumni website here.
  • Inside Indonesia publishes original pieces on a wide range of political, social, environmental and cultural issues in Indonesia. They accept articles from a diverse range of people who have an interest in Indonesia. To find out how to contribute, click here.  Applications for Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarships for Semester 2, 2020 have opened. Apply today!
  • Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project. 

 

Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!

AIYA Links

AIYA Links: 6 December 2019

How Women are Changing Indonesia

All over the islands of Indonesia, women are making a change for themselves from the ground up, and redefining the future of gender equality.

Read more.

In the news

  • 25 year-old Swietenia Puspa Lestari decided it was time to take action on Indonesia’s problematic marine waste. She now leads a team of volunteers to tackle the issue. BBC covered her story. (BBC)
  • On Tuesday, the 3rd of December, Jakarta’s national monument (MONAS) was hit by an explosion. The blast took many by surprise. Read the story here. (The Jakarta Post)
  • Indonesia’s biggest tourist attraction, Bali, is facing water scarcity. Increase in tourism has coincided with monsoon rains delays. What are the effects? What can we do? Lala Samsura explored the issue. (Al Jazeera)
  • Rindu Tempe? An Indonesian student in Sydney have started a class on tempe-making to please all the Tempe craving! Ayo lihat ceritanya. (ABC)
  • Melting ice in Antarctica will impact on Indonesia. Scientist Intan Suci Nurhati explains how in this article. (The Conversation)

 

In the blog

 

Events

  • Bandung, 7 December- Australia Connect and the Australian Embassy Jakarta proudly presents a special concert in Bandung with ARIA Award winning singer-songwriter, Dan Sultan. Mau ikut? More info here.
  • Bandung, 14 December – Ayo ikut AIYA Jawa Barat’s Year-end Party at Down to Earth Bandung. Celebrate the end of Semester, and say goodbye to ACICIS’ student from UNPAR.
  • Melbourne, 11 December – Come to AIYA Vic’s LX every Wednesday at 6pm, RMIT Building 80.
  • Sydney, 14 December – Join AIA End of Year Dinner at Ayam Ayam restaurant. It is $30 for members and $35 for non-members. Register here.
  • Yogyakarta, 14 December- AIYA Yogyakarta collaborates with Monash University for some discussion and traditional games in “Monash GIG.” Register here.
  • Yogyakarta, 16 December – Stretch your muscles and play basketball with AIYA Yogyakarta, every second Monday from 7 – 9pm at UNY Basketball Court. See their IG for more details.

 

 

Opportunities

  • The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Melbourne is looking for people to join us in a variety of roles. It is a 1-3 months unpaid internship programs and is a great taster of what it is like to work in a government organization and know how Indonesian Diplomats work. For further information, check here.
  • Danamon Bank are seeking highly talented fresh Indonesian graduates to be a Danamon Young Business Leader. You will experience the whole aspect of banking business and receive privileged exposure to the Top Executives and Senior Leaders. Your strategic thinking, creativity and business acumen will be incubated through in-class trainings, assignments and leadership challenge.You will also receive your own buddy and mentor in every phase of your journey with us. See the flyer and visit the website for more info and to register. Applications close at the end of December.
  • Apply for an internship with the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) NSW! Internships at AIIA NSW are offered to university students or recent graduates who have an interest in international affairs, and who are looking to further develop their skills for future professional involvement in international policy. For Semester 1 internships, applications are open from 15 November to 15 December 2019. Read more here.
  • The Asia Centre’s 5th International Conference will be held in Bangkok in July 2020. The conference will focus on ‘Hate Speech in Asia: Challenges and Solutions and is now accepting abstracts until 15 December 2019. Submit yours and/or register for the conference here.
  • Call for applications for the Alumni Grant Scheme (AGS) 2020! The AGS offers seed funding on a competitive basis for initiatives that create impact by putting your knowledge and skills to good use. The program provides up to AU$15,000, and up to 25 grants are available under the current AGS round. The AGS is open to all Indonesian nationals who have graduated from a recognised Australian tertiary institution, including those who are self-funded. It is also open to alumni of short-term studies or programs in Australia. See the guidelines – Submit your applications before 20 January 2020 at this link.
  • Pemberdayaan Perempuan Memerangi Kemiskinan (PPMK) is a microfinance organisation based in Yogyakarta that work to empower women to fight poverty. They also provide free English classes to children and are currently working to establish an English book library, so children can continue learning at home. They are seeking donations of new and secondhand English books. To coordinate any donations, contact PPMK on WhatsApp at +62 857-7610-7979 or at [email protected]. Learn more about PPMK’s work!
  • ACICIS is inviting all of its alumni to join the all-new alumni platform. It is packed with new features such as alumni directory, jobs and opportunities page, events page, interest-group pages, as well as other exciting features that will be added regularly. To sign-up, please visit their alumni website here.
  • Inside Indonesia publishes original pieces on a wide range of political, social, environmental and cultural issues in Indonesia. They accept articles from a diverse range of people who have an interest in Indonesia. To find out how to contribute, click here.
  • Applications for Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarships for Semester 2, 2020 have opened. Apply today!
  • Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project. 

Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!

AIYA Blog

Makassar and its familiarity with Australia

Photo by : Rumata’ Artspace

Indonesian version, click here

For many, the first thing that crosses the mind upon hearing the name Makassar is the city’s famed culinary specialty, Coto Makassar. It is less likely that the name evokes thoughts of historical links to Aboriginal Australia, contemporary refugee and migration issues, art, and literature and yet, like Coto Makassar, these things too have their own place in the cultural, social and historical fabric of the city and the South Sulawesi region.

Febrianty Hasanah is one person of Makassan heritage possessed of both the initiative and good fortune to have experienced all of these aspects of her city and culture, through her involvement with Makassar International Writers’ Festival, Rumata Artspace and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

The remarkable historical relationship between Makassans and Yolngu people in Arnhem Land, Northern Australia has attracted an increasing degree of discussion, study and celebration in recent times. Hundreds of years ago, Makassan traders sailed to Arnhem Land in search of trepang, beginning a relationship with Yolngu people not only based upon trade, but also other forms of exchange. A recent artists’ exchange between artists from Yirrkala (Arnhem Land) and Rumata Artspace (Makassar) celebrated these links, and provided Febri with the unique opportunity to travel to Arnhem Land as part of her role in administering the project. This trip, which she described as like going to meet a long-lost relative, gave her the opportunity to further explore the significant influence of this relationship on each of the parties involved.

Photo by : Rumata’ Artspace – Febrianty and her friend

“They shared culture and language; to the point there are around 1,000 words found in both languages. For example, ‘kaluru’ means smoking in both languages, and ‘bala’ means house,” revealed Febri.

“Beyond that, in the Yolngu welcoming ceremony there were a number of rituals similar to those performed by Makassans.”

Febri also learnt that Yolgnu people believe their land was protected by Bayini, the spirit of a Makassar woman who would accompany the Makassan sailors on their journeys. The works produced through the exchange were later exhibited at Rumata Artspace in Makassar in conjunction with Makassar International Writers’ Festival (MIWF), with which Febri has been involved for a number of years as a volunteer and committee member. These experiences have instilled in Febri a belief that literary and artistic collaboration can make a meaningful contribution to mutual understanding between Australia and Indonesia.

“Art is the most flexible medium when we talk about relationship, and it can package these discourses in a way which has the ability to move the various parties who engage with it,” Febri explained.

“There’s still so much to be explored in the relationship between Australia and Indonesia through their shared history. With the availability of residency opportunities, both artists and writers can obtain new perspectives about the links between the two countries.”

Yolngu people have been doing this for hundreds of years, maintaining a collective memory of their shared history with Makassans through song, painting and dance traditions passed down over generations.

Photo by : Rumata’ Artspace 

Although she has finished up with Rumata Artspace and MIWF for now, Febri remains engaged in community work through volunteering and research. Febri’s community consists not only of fellow Indonesians but also asylum seekers, a large number of whom are from Afghanistan and have lived in Makassar for more than three years. However, beyond the government bodies, NGO staff and direct neighbours with whom they interact, the refugees are largely hidden to the eyes of the city and its residents. Among the many challenges these individuals face, they are unable to gain employment due to their limited legal status.

Photo by : Ali Golestanjoo – Febrianty and her friends at Creative Placemaking Project

“In many of these issues I try to understand their position, but I also cannot do anything to help,” said Febri.

“I’m interested in how they face these issues develop resilience over and for an indeterminate period of time, especially given how interacting with a new culture is not an easy thing to do.”

In order to observe, participate in and improve this interaction, Febri recently helped conduct research and a related media project entitled Creative Placemaking undertaken by the Urban

Refugees team from the Resilience Development Initiative and funded by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation. The project focused on the relationship between refugee youths and their local counterparts and, although its results are yet to be formally released, Febri suggested that providing a space and forum for these parties to come together fostered better relations and engagement.

For Febri, volunteering with IOM and participating in such research is also important in that it helps her form her own opinions on refugee issues.

“I want to be more objective regarding their presence and character as people, rather than merely as refugees. I believe treating people not based on labels provides us with a different view of them and their traits, free of whether they are free of statelessness or not.”

Translated by Iven Manning

AIYA Links

AIYA Links: 29 November 2019

Photo: Senyawa – Resident Advisor

In the ancient Javanese folk practice of jathilan, hypnotic rhythms push participants into altered consciousness. Nyshka Chandran meets the artists making extreme sounds with entrancing Javanese rhythms.

Read more

 

In the news

 

 

In the blog

  • Community group, NTT Muda recently held an event entitled “Be An Outstanding Job Candidate CV & Interview Workshop”. This event was held at the Volunteer Hub, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta on November 23, 2019. Read about it here.

 

Events

  • Brisbane, 2 December – The Australia-Indonesia Centre, The University of Queensland, and Australia Indonesia Business Council invite you to Queensland-Indonesia: Exploring Stronger Partnerships in Trade and Skills. AIC Digital Economy Fellow Helen Brown will moderate a panel discussion on how Queensland can leverage Indonesia’s human capital development agenda to capture opportunities presented by the imminent ratification of IA-CEPA. – Register here. 
  • Brisbane, 2 December – The 3rd Australia-ASEAN Entrepreneurs Business Foru is being held from 8:30am – 4:40pm at the University of Queensland, with a special Welcome and Networking Dinner (Note – separate registration required) from 6:30pm at King & Wood Mallesons. Register here.
  • Darwin, 29 November – Do not miss an ‘Indonesia Beautiful’ event showcasing a magnificent fashion show, promoting beautiful ready-to-wear collections from well-known Indonesian designers, held at Hilton Darwin from 6pm – 9pm. Seats are LIMITED so quickly get your tickets by visiting this link.
  • Jakarta, 30 November – The Conference on Indonesian Foreign Policy (CIFP) is the country’s biggest festival of diplomacy and also happens to be the world’s largest foreign policy conference. The chosen theme for this year is “Cooling Off The Hot Peace: Strategic Opportunities and Economic Remedies for a Distressful World,”. Register for their annual event here.
  • Melbourne, 4 December – Come to AIYA Vic’s LX every Wednesday at 6pm, RMIT Building 80.
  • Melbourne, 3 December – Asia Society Australia are hosting their ‘Disruptive Asia 2019 Launch – Values v Interests debate’ from 5:45pm – 7:30pm at the Monash Conference Centre. The debate will explore how our values intersect with our interests when it comes to Australian research, education and philanthropic collaboration with China’. The event is open to the public – registration essential.
  • Melbourne, 5 December – Come along to the AIBC Victoria’s 2019 End of Year Networking Event with the Consul General, from 6 – 8pm. RSVP 2 December – register here.
  • Sydney, 30 November – Don’t miss AIYA NSW’s Malam Trivia for 2019! Join them for a bunch of laughs, FREE pizza + martabak and the chance to battle it out for the coveted prize of the 2019 Malam Trivia champions. Bring your friends, your colleagues, your neighbours, your mum and dad! You can create your own team, or just come along on the night and we’ll help pair you up with a team – a great way to make some new friends. Tickets are strictly limited – purchase yours now (discounts for AIYA members)! – See their FB for more details.
  • Sydney, 30 November – The NSW School of Languages are hosting their Awards and Open Day from 12 – 3:30pm on Saturday, with a main event of world trivia! See the event details here.
  • Sydney, 30 November – Don’t miss the IACC’s ‘Indonesian Cultural Night’, at the Rockdale Town Hall, 6:30pm – 10pm. See the flyer.
  • Yogyakarta, 2 December – Stretch your muscles and play basketball with AIYA Yogyakarta, every second Monday from 7 – 9pm at UNY Basketball Court. See their IG for more details.

 

Opportunities

  • Join AIYA Queensland! AIYA Queensland are recruiting their new executive team, to be decided at their AGM on 30 November 2019. Available positions include Chapter President, Secretary, Treasurer and General Committee Member/s. Express your interest in a position via the Google Form. For more information, email [email protected].
  • The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Melbourne is looking for people to join us in a variety of roles. It is a 1-3 months unpaid internship programs and is a great taster of what it is like to work in a government organization and know how Indonesian Diplomats work. For further information, check here.
  • Danamon Bank are seeking highly talented fresh Indonesian graduates to be a Danamon Young Business Leader. You will experience the whole aspect of banking business and receive privileged exposure to the Top Executives and Senior Leaders. Your strategic thinking, creativity and business acumen will be incubated through in-class trainings, assignments and leadership challenge.You will also receive your own buddy and mentor in every phase of your journey with us. See the flyer and visit the website for more info and to register. Applications close at the end of December.
  • The University of the Sunshine Coast is currently seeking a Lecturer in World Languages (full time, ongoing). The School of Creative Industries offers a range of undergraduate programs across three main areas: Design, Creative Industries and Communication and is looking to appoint an exceptional Academic to grow the existing languages program within the area of Communication. Applications close 2 December 2019. See more information.
  • Apply for an internship with the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) NSW! Internships at AIIA NSW are offered to university students or recent graduates who have an interest in international affairs, and who are looking to further develop their skills for future professional involvement in international policy. For Semester 1 internships, applications are open from 15 November to 15 December 2019. Read more here.
  • The Asia Centre’s 5th International Conference will be held in Bangkok in July 2020. The conference will focus on ‘Hate Speech in Asia: Challenges and Solutions and is now accepting abstracts until 15 December 2019. Submit yours and/or register for the conference here.
  • Call for applications for the Alumni Grant Scheme (AGS) 2020! The AGS offers seed funding on a competitive basis for initiatives that create impact by putting your knowledge and skills to good use. The program provides up to AU$15,000, and up to 25 grants are available under the current AGS round. The AGS is open to all Indonesian nationals who have graduated from a recognised Australian tertiary institution, including those who are self-funded. It is also open to alumni of short-term studies or programs in Australia. See the guidelines – Submit your applications before 20 January 2020 at this link.
  • Pemberdayaan Perempuan Memerangi Kemiskinan (PPMK) is a microfinance organisation based in Yogyakarta that work to empower women to fight poverty. They also provide free English classes to children and are currently working to establish an English book library, so children can continue learning at home. They are seeking donations of new and secondhand English books. To coordinate any donations, contact PPMK on WhatsApp at +62 857-7610-7979 or at [email protected]. Learn more about PPMK’s work!
  • ACICIS is inviting all of its alumni to join the all-new alumni platform. It is packed with new features such as alumni directory, jobs and opportunities page, events page, interest-group pages, as well as other exciting features that will be added regularly. To sign-up, please visit their alumni website here.
  • Inside Indonesia publishes original pieces on a wide range of political, social, environmental and cultural issues in Indonesia. They accept articles from a diverse range of people who have an interest in Indonesia. To find out how to contribute, click here.
  • Applications for Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarships for Semester 2, 2020 have opened. Apply today! 
  • Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project. 

 

Privacy Settings
We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. If you are using our Services via a browser you can restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. You can selectively provide your consent below to allow such third party embeds. For complete information about the cookies we use, data we collect and how we process them, please check our Privacy Policy
Youtube
Consent to display content from - Youtube
Vimeo
Consent to display content from - Vimeo
Google Maps
Consent to display content from - Google
Save