Queues snaked down the path leading to the entrance of Wisma Indonesia in Sydney's Rose Bay since before 4 p.m. on Friday, March 20. The Indonesian Consul General for Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales Pendekar Muda Leonard Sondakh and Mrs Fabiola Sondakh held an open house to commemorate Eid al-Fitr with the Indonesian community.
In addition to delivering his Eid al-Fitr greetings, the Consul General also responded to reports of calls for Eid al-Fitr celebrations at Indonesian representative offices to be 'modest'. He shared his views on why such events are important for the diverse Indonesian community in Sydney.
Celebrating her first Eid al-Fitr since her husband's assignment in Sydney, Mrs Sondakh also shared her views on the dynamics of Indonesian society here.
Of the approximately 450 people attending the halal bi halal (religious gathering), Nanda and Nurul were two Indonesians who intentionally made the effort to experience the Indonesian Eid al-Fitr atmosphere.
Nanda, who has lived in Sydney for the past five years, said that the Indonesian Muslim community is always "engaged and never forgets its cultural roots". Meanwhile, for Nurul — who also attended other community celebrations — gathering with the Indonesian community during Eid al-Fitr is a must because the unique vibe and the delicious Indonesian dishes can be the medicine for homesickness.
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