Indonesian Consulate in Noumea: 130th Anniversary a Moment to Preserve Javanese Identity and Culture
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Consul General in Noumea, Bambang Gunawan, said the commemoration of the 130th Anniversary of the Arrival of Javanese Workers in New Caledonia serves as a moment to reaffirm identity and preserve Javanese cultural roots.
“This 130th anniversary is not merely about remembering history, but also about affirming identity, so that we ‘ora lali karo jowone’ — so that we do not forget our Javanese roots and identity, even though we were born and raised far from the land of our ancestors,” Bambang said in a written statement received on Tuesday (17 February).
He noted that the Consulate General’s participation in the event reflects the Indonesian government’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Indonesian diaspora in New Caledonia.
Bambang also reminded Indonesian citizens and those who have acquired French citizenship to be good citizens and comply with the regulations in force in New Caledonia.
The Indonesian Consulate General in Noumea took part in the 130th Anniversary of the Arrival of Javanese Workers in New Caledonia, organised by the Association of Indonesians and Their Descendants (PMIK) on Monday.
The event was attended by representatives of the High Commissioner of the French Republic in New Caledonia, the Governor of the Southern Province, representatives of the Congress of New Caledonia, the Mayor of Noumea, government representatives, heads of Indonesian associations, as well as representatives of the international community and people of Javanese descent.
The commemoration marked a historic moment to remember the first arrival of Javanese workers in New Caledonia on 16 February 1896.
To this day, the Javanese community in New Caledonia continues to preserve their cultural identity whilst actively contributing to local social life.
The development of the Indonesian community in the territory is considered to show significant progress from generation to generation. Many Indonesian descendants now hold various important positions, ranging from medical professionals, educators, and business operators to officials in local government.
According to the statement, this reflects the fact that the hard work, perseverance, and values passed down by the earlier Javanese workers have produced generations capable of achieving success, adapting, and making tangible contributions to the development and social life of New Caledonia.