Reza Praditya Yudha

Following the establishment of Indonesian Student Association (Perhimpunan Pelajar Indonesia/PPI) in foreign countries, students in Portugal held The 1^st Congress of the Indonesian Students Association in Portugal (PPI Portugal) to establish similar organizations. Located in the auditorium of the Universidade do Minho, Braga (9 / 10), congress was attended by Indonesia Ambassador in Portugal Albert Matondang and Indonesian Staff Embassy.

In his speech, Chairman of the Committee Puji Sumarsono revealed the formation of student nationalism imbued PPI Portugal in Portugal as well as offset the spirit of another student movement outside or within the country. "Based on the record, the number of Indonesian students who currently resides in Portugal amounted to 23 people. Thanks God, with these amount, PPI Portugal can be formed. I hope this can increase another student’s spirit at Indonesia itself and abroad. Moreover, the student movement in the country that started sluggish, "explained the man who became lecturer at the University Muhammadiyah Malang.

Meanwhile, Albert Matondang excited and enthusiastic welcome for the establishment of PPI Portugal. "Compared to other countries, for example in the Netherlands, Germany, or Britain. They are thousands there. The number of Indonesian students in Portugal counted less. I am very surprised with this Portugal PPI. Not just for students, but we at the Embassy will also be helpful. For example, strengthen friendship or in terms of protection of citizens. Moreover, the Indonesia Embassy in Portugal is relatively young, newly opened 10 year. "

The man who was inaugurated in January, gave a note for a simple run PPI Portugal, but according to capacity. The reason is, all members of the PPI Portugal still have responsibility to complete the study. Albert hopes, knowledge gained in Portugal can be applied in Indonesia. "Do not waste the opportunity to learn here. If it fails, the apology was not enough to redeem it. Looking ahead, the embassy will remain their best for the number of Indonesian students who study here for more. Likewise, more Portugues students can learn in Indonesia to ventilate, two national culture," he concluded.

In addition to the declaration of the establishment of PPI Portugal, the congress which took place from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time also discuss and ratify rules and organization’s structure. At the end of the agenda, the Congress set the Puji Sumarsono as Chairman of the PPI Portugal the period 2010-2011. Congress held a simple, solemn, and very "Indonesia" with the present cone of “tumpeng” and a variety of traditional snacks. (Reza)