August 17 is an exciting day for Indonesians, not only for those who live in Indonesia, but also in the whole world. It is the day for them to marks Indonesia’s independence and celebrated with fun competitions and folks entertainment. In this regard Indonesian Embassy in Beijing organized flag raising ceremony and Indonesian society gathering every year in the embassy compound.
Interestingly, the activities in Beijing were not only followed by Indonesia, but also by Chinese citizen who was born and had lived in various region in Indonesia in the 1960s or commonly called as huaqiao. At the time of returning to china most of huaqiao are teenagers
In China, those huaqiao always keep longing and memories of life in Indonesia, including the ability to speak Indonesian.They continue to practice singing Indonesian songs like “Bengawan Solo” or “Hallo-hallo Bandung”, dancing Indonesian traditional dances and cooking Indonesian food in a variety of occasions.
Not surprisingly, one of the most of activities that they are waiting each year is the celebration of 17 August which was organized by Indonesian embassy. Every time I talked with some of the huaqiao, they look very enthusiast to participate. They were very grateful because it was invited by the Indonesian embassy.
