TIMES AUSTRALIA, JAKARTA – The Indonesian Student Association or PPI New Zealand, in collaboration with the University of Canterbury (UC) Gamelan, has garnered attention at the Selwyn Culture Fest (10/9/2023). This event is an annual cultural festival held in the Selwyn district, New Zealand. The festival showcases more than 30 different cultures and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The performance of Gamelan and Tari Pendet, a traditional Balinese dance, began with a warm welcome from Liam Oliver, the Coordinator of UC Gamelan. Liam expressed his appreciation for the tremendous support from Indonesian students, which made the performance even more special.

"We are delighted and grateful to the members of PPI who came to support us, especially those who took to the stage to dance, truly adding something special to this performance," said Liam, one of the UC gamelan students.

The performance of UC gamelan on stage. (Photo: PPI New Zealand)

Panggah Tri Wicaksono, a member of UC Gamelan who is also pursuing a PhD in Taxation at UC, added that Gamelan is an incredible tool for promoting Indonesian culture through the performing arts.

"We are proud and happy to see the enthusiasm of Indonesian students in promoting our culture through UC Gamelan. We also open opportunities for anyone interested in learning Gamelan in New Zealand, especially for students and Indonesian residents in the Canterbury region," Panggah added.

In addition to playing Gamelan, Indonesian students who are recipients of IISMA scholarships at the University of Canterbury (IISMA UC) also had the opportunity to perform Tari Pendet.

"We are very proud to represent Indonesia in this international festival. This opportunity gives us a feeling of returning to our homeland and getting closer to Indonesian culture, even though we are studying abroad," said Alifia Sabila Putri, who is also a student representative of IISMA UC.

The active involvement of Indonesian students in the Canterbury region in the Selwyn Culture Fest reflects the revitalized spirit of PPI New Zealand, especially after Indonesian students returned to New Zealand in early 2023.

Nida Nafila Attamimi, Coordinator of the PPI New Zealand Presidium Council, reaffirmed PPI's commitment to strengthening the role of students as cultural ambassadors of Indonesia abroad. "We appreciate all Indonesian students in Canterbury who have come together to present one of Indonesia's artistic treasures to the international community. This is tangible evidence of our enthusiasm and commitment," Nida said.

The spectacular performance of Balinese Gamelan and Tari Pendet by members of PPI New Zealand at the Selwyn Culture Fest has successfully captivated the audience. This also serves as concrete proof of the importance of preserving and promoting Indonesia's cultural richness on the international stage. (*)