PPIA President Calls on Students to Move Beyond Narratives: We Are the Bridge Between Indonesia and Australia
PPIA's President with the Speakers of KIPI 10th
Written by Directorate of Media and Communication (7/12/2025)
Melbourne (12/07/2025) – The President of the Indonesian Students Association in Australia (PPIA), Wildan Ali, called on Indonesian students in Australia and all relevant stakeholders not to stop at discourse and narrative, but to actively engage in advocacy efforts. This message was delivered during the opening of the 10th Konferensi Internasional Pelajar Indonesia (KIPI), held on Saturday (12/07/2025) at Sidney Myer, University of Melbourne, Australia.
“We cannot in good conscience discuss partnership and growth without addressing pressing issues that affect our community directly. It is with a heavy heart that I must raise the plight of our fellow Indonesian students from Papua,” said Wildan (12/07/2025).
He went on to say that the challenges faced by fellow students and fellow Indonesians require the help of many more hands. On this occasion, he urged all conference participants to approach these issues from a humanitarian perspective.
“This is not merely an administrative issue; it is a human issue. It affects their well-being, their mental health, and their ability to focus on their studies – the very reason they are here. They are an integral part of our community and a vital part of Indonesia's future,” Wildan emphasized.
In addition, Wildan expressed concern over another systemic issue affecting Indonesian students in Australia: Degree recognition.
“Many of us will graduate with a three-year Bachelor's degree, a standard of excellence in Australia. Yet, in our own homeland, this qualification is often recognized only as equivalent to a D3 diploma. This is a critical disconnect. It hinders our ability to contribute effectively, discouraging the ‘brain gain’ that Indonesia so desperately needs,” he stated.
In closing, Wildan invited all conference participants to contribute in their own capacities and offer their best for Indonesia.
“We are the architects and engineers of this bridge between our nations. Let us build it strong, wide, and open for all. Let's ensure it is a bridge to a shared, prosperous, and truly sustainable future,” Wildan concluded.
The 10th KIPI Conference brought together more than 20 speakers, 50 presenters, and hundreds of other participants joining both online and in person. With the theme “Advancing Indonesia–Australia Partnerships: Driving Collaboration, Innovation, and Advocacy for Sustainable Growth,” the conference highlighted six key strategic areas: Strong Institutions, Security, Laws & International Relations; Climate Resilience, Sustainability, Environment & Energy; Economic Transformation, Business & Policy; Health, (Bio)Medicine & Wellbeing; Language, Education, Art, Design & Culture; and Emerging Tech, Engineering & Digital Innovation.