From angklung workshop to identity discussion, 'Nusantara in Melbourne' works to preserve Indonesian culture

The Indonesian diaspora in Melbourne celebrates their identity through cultural events that bring people together, spark connection, and keep traditions alive.

Dari workshop angklung hingga diskusi identitas, 'Nusantara in Melbourne' mengupayakan pelestarian budaya Indonesia. Credit: SBS/Anne Parisianne

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From angklung workshop to identity discussion, 'Nusantara in Melbourne' works to preserve Indonesian culture

SBS Indonesian

09:54Indonesian

On Saturday, 24 May 2025, Australia Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) Victoria and Asian Hustle Network organised "Nusantara in Melbourne" at the Indonesian Consulate General.

The event, which ran from noon to 4.15 PM, featured various cultural activities. Attendees could join angklung workshops, try batik-making, play traditional games, participate in panel discussions about Australian-Indonesian cross-cultural identity, and contribute to a collaborative zine featuring diaspora stories.

Ian Darmawan, acting president of AIYA Victoria, said the event aimed to give Indonesian diaspora opportunities to collaborate and build networks.

Nusantara in Melbourne, 2025. Credit: Supplied/Diana Pertiwi

Billy Addison Adityanto from The Perantau Podcast, one of the speakers, said, "Sometimes we question our nationalism when we're overseas. But actually, it's precisely because we're abroad that we can make Indonesia proud and represent our country well."

Two Indonesian students, Widya Diantari from Bali and Widya Rama Sujiwati from Jakarta, both pursuing Master of Public Health degrees at the University of Melbourne, enthusiastically welcomed the event.

"For those who've been here long, it helps ease their homesickness for Indonesia. For newcomers, it's a chance to network with those who've been here longer," Widya Rama said.

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