Indonesian embassy holds course on civic education

The Indonesian embassy in Doha, in collaboration with the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, the Islamic University of Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesian Student Association in Qatar (PPIQ), AnakQatar and the Indonesian Community Association in Qatar (Permiqa) held the first short course on civic education for Indonesian youth. The theme was 'Nurturing nationalism in the international world'.

"We chose this theme to create awareness that the nationalism we want is nationalism that respects other nations. Our nationalism must nurture and nourish in the 'garden' of internationalism," said Ali Murtado, head of Social and Cultural Affairs, Indonesian embassy.The course took place from October 10 to 13 (online) and on October 28 offline. The programme concluded on October 28, coinciding with the commemoration of the 94th Youth Pledge Day. Around 40 Indonesian youths in Qatar participated in the programme. Ambassador Ridwan Hassan emphasised the importance of nationalism among the young Indonesian diaspora in Qatar, saying: "This activity aims to foster a sense of love and belonging for the homeland among these children. “Nowadays Indonesian young diaspora in Qatar has grown up as a 'half' foreigner. Most of them can only speak Indonesian passively. That is also the reason why this year's course is in English."Putri Handayani, one of the speakers and a mountaineer who currently lives in Qatar, said: "This event is incredible because it reveals Indonesia from various perspectives. Loving Indonesia does not need to be limited by who we are and where we are." The event also presented Izza Alyssa, an Indonesian youth who had won a prestigious scholarship, as well as Dr Anto Mohsin, a lecturer at Northwestern University in Qatar. "I am very happy to attend this programme. It gave me a more comprehensive description about my country" said Keira, a 15-years old participant.