KUCHING: The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) Kuching held a flag-hoisting ceremony today (Aug 17) to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s independence, drawing about 300 attendees.
In a statement, KJRI Kuching said Consul General Dr Abdullah Zulkifli served as inspector of the ceremony, with Lieutenant Colonel Cpn Budi Perdana Sihombing as ceremony commander.
The flag-hoisting team comprised Raziq Marza, Muhamad Rosidin, Sulaiman Salamat and Yopinus Joko Purwanto, most of whom are Indonesian citizens working in Kuching.
The ceremony, attended by members of the Indonesian community, Friends of Indonesia and KJRI staff, saw the Red and White flag raised to the Indonesian national anthem, Indonesia Raya, with many attendees visibly moved.
In his speech, Abdullah said love for the homeland remained a strong bond uniting Indonesians regardless of their backgrounds.“Today, we see Indonesian people from various backgrounds coming together, from those working in oil palm plantations, senior citizens and younger generations to professional members of the diaspora.
“Our ages, professions and backgrounds may differ, but our love for Indonesia remains a strong bond,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to members of the Indonesian community who took time to attend the celebration, saying their presence showed that the Red and White remained alive in their hearts despite being far from home.
Guests included Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng and Consul General of Brunei Darussalam in Kuching His Excellency Sheikh Abdul Mahdani Abdul Gani.
Following the ceremony, KJRI Kuching held a tumpeng cutting ceremony as an expression of gratitude for the blessings and guidance that had enabled Indonesia to reach its 81st year of independence.
The programme also included free health screenings organised in collaboration with KPJ Kuching Specialist Hospital for members of the Indonesian community.
The screenings covered blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and Body Mass Index (BMI) checks.
KJRI Kuching’s Immigration Section also continued providing passport issuance services despite Aug 17 being a public holiday, reflecting its commitment to serving Indonesians in Sarawak.
Meanwhile, 76 year old Ratna Wiryawan, who has lived in Kuching for more than 20 years, said she attended the Independence Day ceremony at KJRI Kuching every year as an expression of gratitude and love for her homeland.
The celebration concluded with entertainment and karaoke, with members of the Indonesian community singing Indonesian songs to foster camaraderie and strengthen their sense of nationalism.
