“Take all the knowledge you get here and do not leave even one while you are studying in New Zealand; bring them all home for our nation’s progress,” he stated during a dialogue with the Indonesian diaspora here on Thursday.
Speaking to about 300 Indonesian participants during the dialogue, he highlighted that Indonesian students studying in China have contributed to the development of a high-speed train that can reach a speed of 650 kilometers per hour.
“Hence, even if Indonesia’s fastest train currently reaches only 350 kilometers per hour, our students are capable (of developing) the 650-kilometer per hour train in the future,” Amin emphasized.
He then encouraged the Indonesian diaspora to strengthen their national spirit by demonstrating Indonesian friendliness and noble culture wherever they are, including New Zealand.
The diaspora should show that Indonesians are peace-loving, tolerant, and respect differences, he said, adding that they must also maintain solidarity and actively participate in their local community.
“The most important is: do not make an embarrassment or make a fuss in foreign lands,” Amin said.
He also asked the Indonesian Embassy in New Zealand to ensure equal treatment and protection for all Indonesians in the country.
“I also appeal to you to return to your homeland, at least in your heart,” he remarked.
At the end of the dialogue, the Vice President asked all participants to sing the patriotic song Bagimu Negeri (To Thee, My Country) as a reminder to devote one’s life to the nation.
The dialogue was attended by Ambassador Fientje Maritje S., embassy officials, as well as members of the Indonesian community and student organizations in New Zealand.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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