August 17 marks the day when Indonesia proclaimed its independence back in 1945. Every year, the entire country commemorates the occasion in both solemn and cheerful ways. While there is much reason for celebration, we also honour the sacrifice of our heroes and remember them with gratitude and reverence the supreme struggle they made to achieve our independence, so that we can all look forward to the brighter future of Indonesia in international forum. To honour our independence, it is important for us to also remember the meaning of ‘Unity in Diversity’ or ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ as our national character. By nature, Indonesia is a diverse nation with many ethnicity, language, customs, colours and religions. ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ or ‘Unity in Diversity’ is our quintessential personality that guides us in our relationships within the country and with other nations.
The spirit of Indonesia Independence Day does not only belong to Indonesians living in Indonesia but also to those living overseas. Through the commemoration of the 62nd Indonesian Independence Day, the Indonesian students and community in Townsville aspire to maintain the spirit of independence by performing a special occasion: the Indonesia Festival and Independence Day. The cultural event is designed to explore creativities, embrace arts, traditions and beliefs within the many ethnic groups in Indonesia and to serve as a media to embrace diversity and promote understanding with the international communities. By inviting and involving people of different cultural backgrounds and nationalities in Townsville, we hope that the event will promote Indonesia’s cultural diversity and foster multi cultural understanding in Townsville Australia.
© PPIA-JCU
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