Indonesian Consulate General in San Francisco Encourages Diaspora to Strengthen Family Bonds

Jakarta — The Indonesian Consul General in San Francisco, Yohpy Ichsan Wardana, has called on all members of the Indonesian diaspora to continue maintaining togetherness and strengthening their sense of family bonds whilst abroad.

“I urge all Indonesian diaspora to continue preserving their sense of unity, strengthen familial bonds, and continue to carry the spirit of love for their homeland, even whilst far from Indonesia,” said Yohpy in a statement received in Jakarta on Monday.

Yohpy made these remarks at the “Taste of Indonesia Fiesta” event held at Fresno City Blessing Church in California on Sunday, 15 March.

The diaspora gathering, which took place at a church serving the Indonesian community during the month of Ramadan, exemplified the enduring values of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (unity in diversity) thriving within the diaspora.

“The gathering amongst the diaspora during Ramadan at this church community reflects the noble values of the Indonesian nation. We possess diverse cultures but remain united in our identity as an Indonesian nation,” he said.

Attending the event were Pastor Paulus Kristianto, who has resided in Fresno for over four decades, and politician and comedian Rony Imanuel, known as Mongol Stres.

Mongol expressed his support for various efforts to promote Indonesia abroad and encouraged the Indonesian diaspora to take pride in their national identity and culture.

Beyond serving as a gathering for kinship, the “Taste of Indonesia Fiesta” also showcased the culinary richness of the archipelago, presented by Indonesian food business entrepreneurs in Fresno, ranging from specialities of Minangkabau, Manado, Betawi, and Javanese cuisine.

The attendees also agreed to strengthen collaboration in various activities promoting Indonesia in the California region in the future.

Fresno is one of the most important cities in the Central Valley region of California, serving as the largest agricultural centre in America with various leading commodities such as almonds, grapes, and oranges.

The city is home to approximately 300 Indonesian residents and diaspora members who work as entrepreneurs, culinary business owners, medical professionals, and in various other sectors.