Australian Students Immerse in Indonesian Culture Through Batik and Culinary Experiences

The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) Sydney has successfully implemented the 'Indonesia Goes to School' (IGtS) series, bringing Indonesian culture to over 1,100 Australian students across two schools in New South Wales. The program, held at the International Grammar School Sydney on July 31, 2026, and Claremont College Randwick on August 3, 2026, aimed to present Indonesia not just as a neighboring country but as a living learning experience. Students were immersed in the archipelago's art, culture, language, and culinary delights through various interactive activities. At the International Grammar School, nearly 1,000 students visited the 'Indonesia Country Room' as part of the school's International Day celebration. They participated in batik and angklung workshops, tried on traditional attire, took photos in a 'Wonderful Indonesia' themed area, and sampled Indonesian culinary offerings and products available in Australia. Meanwhile, at Claremont College, 125 students engaged in an experiential learning program. This included a batik workshop with Wukirsari Tourism Village from Yogyakarta, a Tari Narnir dance from Taro Tourism Village in Bali, angklung games, making friendship bracelets from hanjeli seeds, and practicing bargaining in Indonesian facilitated by the Indonesian Language and Culture Center (BBBI) NSW. Indonesian Consul General in Sydney, Leonard Sondakh, emphasized that cultural diplomacy is a highly effective tool for building closeness between nations. He stated, "The relationship between Indonesia and Australia is built not only through intergovernmental cooperation but also through inter-community relations." He expressed hope that IGtS would encourage the younger generation of Australia to learn Indonesian, viewing it as a window to understand the values, traditions, and diversity of the Indonesian nation. The program also served as a platform to promote Indonesian tourism. Representatives from the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, along with delegates from the Taro and Wukirsari tourism villages, introduced the concept of Indonesian tourism villages that integrate cultural richness, traditions, and sustainable tourism. Janelle Ford, Acting Principal of Claremont College, lauded the program for providing authentic learning experiences through participatory, creative, and fun activities. The music teacher at the International Grammar School even expressed interest in exploring opportunities to introduce angklung learning as part of the school's music curriculum, highlighting the potential for Indonesian culture to become a part of cross-cultural learning in Australia. The IGtS initiative involved collaboration with the Dharma Wanita Association of KJRI Sydney, BBBI NSW, and the Indonesian diaspora in Sydney, showcasing a tangible manifestation of Indonesian public diplomacy aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and fostering cross-cultural understanding among the youth of both nations. Source: VOI English