KBRI Dili: Indonesian Language Training Attended by 1,500 East Timorese Residents
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The enthusiasm of East Timorese residents for learning Indonesian is reflected in the participation of 1,500 attendees in this year’s Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) programme, organised by the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) in Dili.
Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at KBRI Dili, Nugroho Yuwono Aribhimo, stated that the BIPA programme plays a strategic role as a medium for language diplomacy and strengthening friendship between the two countries.
“The enthusiasm of East Timor’s younger generation is a key asset in bolstering educational and cultural cooperation between the two nations,” Nugroho said while opening BIPA 2026 at the Indonesian Cultural Centre in Dili on Monday (20/4).
According to a written statement from KBRI Dili, participants in the programme come from various backgrounds, including students and representatives from local institutions.
They are spread across 10 districts, with the main learning activities centred in Dili. A total of 250 participants are attending in-person classes at the Indonesian Cultural Centre.
The programme is supported by 18 dedicated BIPA instructors.
On the same occasion, the Education and Culture Attaché at KBRI Dili, Tasrifin Tahara, said that the BIPA programme accommodates the cultural and emotional closeness between the two countries.
He added that the high interest among East Timor’s younger generation in continuing their education in Indonesia further drives the need to learn the Indonesian language.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Language Development and Cultivation Agency, Hafidz Muksin, described BIPA as a priority government programme in strengthening the Indonesian language and culture at the international level.
According to him, the programme needs to be continuously developed with support from various parties.
KBRI Dili hopes that the BIPA 2026 programme will further strengthen educational and cultural cooperation between the two countries.
The programme is also expected to encourage more East Timorese students to continue their studies in Indonesia.