Highlighting Bilateral Relations: Breakfasting Event Unites Australian Alumni in Solo

The Australian Consulate-General in Surabaya hosted the "Buka Puasa with Australian Alumni 2024" event on 26 March at the Universitas Sebelas Maret Tower in Solo. This gathering marked a significant milestone in commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia.

Attended by a gathering of 75 alumni, the event served as a testament to the enduring bond between the two nations. The highlight of the evening was the religious reflection (kultum) delivered by two alumni from different backgrounds, Ustad Feri Firmansyah, an alumnus of the Muslim Exchange Program (MEP), and Prof Dr Alimatul Qibtiyah, Commissioner of Komnas Perempuan and Professor of Gender Studies UIN Sunan Kalijaga, an alumnus of an Australia Awards Short Course. Ustad Feri highlighted the importance of ukhuwah Islamiyah (solidarity, while Prof Alimatul emphasised the significance of academic and cultural exchanges in bolstering bilateral cooperation.

"The Australian Consulate-General has a keen interest in deepening our engagement with all alumni of Australian education," said Ms Fiona Hoggart, Australia’s Consul-General in Surabaya. "This encompasses graduates with bachelor's, master's, and PhD degrees, whether through scholarships or self-funded, as well as participants in Australian government programs such as Short Courses, Fellowships, the Australia-Indonesia Muslim Exchange Program (MEP), and the Australia-Indonesia Youth Exchange Program (AIYEP). By nurturing a robust network of alumni, we can actively contribute to the ongoing success of the Australia-Indonesia relationship."

The event was a lively affair, with alumni enjoying engaging conversations, relishing delicious food and beverages, reuniting with fellow alumni, enjoying a dance performance from Pradita Dirgantara School and capturing cherished memories at the photo booth.

The "Buka Puasa with Australian Alumni 2024" event in Solo served as a platform for alumni to reconnect, celebrate shared experiences, and reaffirm their commitment to strengthening the enduring bonds of friendship between Australia and Indonesia.