Fostering Partnerships: Australia and Indonesia Work Together for Cultural Recognition

MAKASSAR, RAKYAT NEWS – In a sunny and windy day, on September 5-6, 2024, Penny Williams, the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, visited Makassar, South Sulawesi.

Her arrival was accompanied by Todd Dias, the Australian Consul-General in Makassar, as they engaged with local officials and alumni.

During her visit, Ambassador Williams met with Makassar’s Mayor, Mohammad Ramdhan Pomanto, and the Rector of Hasanuddin University (UNHAS), Prof. Jamaluddin Jompa. Their discussions focused on enhancing collaboration between Australia and Indonesia in various fields.

Ambassador Williams also took the opportunity to visit the UNHAS Disability Center and the Australia-Indonesia Centre, which serves as the headquarters for the Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Research (PAIR).

She expressed her enthusiasm for returning to Makassar, recalling her previous visit alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

“This year, we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia. The historical ties between Makassar and northern Australia date back hundreds of years, a fact highlighted by the Prime Minister during his visit in 2022,” she noted.

Accompanied by Maros Regent Andi Syafril Chaidir Syam and a team of Australian-Indonesian archaeologists, Ambassador Williams explored the Leang Leang Archaeological Park within the Maros-Pangkep Geopark. She praised the collaboration between Australian and Indonesian archaeologists, recognizing their efforts in uncovering some of the world’s oldest cave art.

Australia is proud to support Indonesia’s successful designation of this historical site as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023. Ambassador Williams also announced funding for a comic book project aimed at educating children about the cultural and scientific significance of the remarkable Geopark.

The visit underscores Australia’s commitment to fostering educational and cultural ties with Indonesia, reflecting a strong partnership built over decades. Ambassador Williams’ engagement with local institutions and communities exemplifies the ongoing collaboration between the two nations.

Through these initiatives, both countries aim to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation, particularly in education, culture, and research. The visit marks another step forward in the enduring relationship between Australia and Indonesia. (Uki Ruknuddin)