Australian Alumni Celebrate Ramadan Together in East Java
Following the earlier Buka Puasa with Australian Alumni gatherings in Central Java, the Australian Consulate-General in Surabaya continued the Ramadan series in East Java, bringing together alumni in Surabaya on 5 March at Oakwood Hotel and in Malang on 6 March at Swiss-Belinn Hotel. These events marked the conclusion of the Consulate-General’s Ramadan alumni gatherings across Central and East Java.
In Surabaya, Australian alumni gathered for an evening of reflection, conversation and reconnection at a special iftar hosted by the Australian Consulate-General. The event brought together alumni from diverse professions and generations, united by their shared experience of studying in Australia.
Opening the evening, Australian Consul-General in Surabaya, Mr Glen Askew, highlighted the important role alumni play in strengthening the Australia–Indonesia partnership.
‘Our alumni community represents a powerful connection between Australia and Indonesia, strengthened by common experiences, enduring friendships and professional cooperation. Their expertise and leadership play an important role in advancing Indonesia’s sustainable development,’ said Mr Askew.
As the sun set, alumni gathered for a group photo before breaking the fast together. The evening continued with dinner, lively discussions and a friendly quiz that added energy and laughter to the gathering.
Continuing the series the following evening, Australian alumni in Malang reunited for a special iftar, embracing the spirit of Ramadan while commemorating International Women’s Day. The gathering provided a meaningful opportunity to reconnect and celebrate the shared experiences shaped by studying in Australia.
Australian Consul-General Mr Glen Askew opened the event with welcoming remarks, followed by a Ramadan reflection by Australian alumna Prof. Dr Hj Ilfi Nur Diana, Rector of Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang. Alumni then broke their fast together, shared dinner and engaged in warm conversations, while a lively quiz further strengthened connections within the alumni community.
Together, the Surabaya and Malang gatherings highlighted the vibrancy of the Australian alumni network in East Java. As alumni came together during Ramadan, the events reinforced the enduring friendships and professional connections formed through Australian education and the continued role of alumni in strengthening people-to-people ties between Australia and Indonesia.
