As the annual Indonesian International Heroes' Day approaches, it is a moment of profound significance for Indonesian new residents and migrant workers, who often commemorate the spirit of Indonesian heroes through artistic creation and culinary activities. The Hualien County Service Station of the Northern Affairs Brigade, National Immigration Agency, held a multicultural promotion event on October 24 at the "Wandering House Homestay" in Hualien City, attracting new residents of various nationalities to participate and experience Indonesian culture through cultural exchange.
During the event, Indonesian new resident lecturer Zhang Mei-jun demonstrated the traditional Indonesian art of "cyanotype," a classic blue imaging technique. Cyanotype uses a mixture of ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide as the developing solution, combined with unique Indonesian plant motifs, to transfer these designs onto cotton fabric. After exposure to sunlight, the fabric reveals distinctive blue images. The most popular designs featured geometric patterns of sappanwood leaves, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics and highlighting the unique charm of Indonesian art.
The cyanotype craft creates vivid blue artworks with a sense of depth (Photo/Source: National Immigration Agency Website)
In addition to visual arts, the Indonesian fruit salad "Rujak" added cultural flavor to the event. This dish is commonly served at Indonesian family gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing harmony and tolerance among family members or couples. The sauce for Rujak can be adjusted to personal taste, with varying degrees of sourness, sweetness, and spiciness, allowing family members to demonstrate mutual accommodation and understanding while sharing this dish. Zhang Mei-jun noted that the process of making this dish requires family collaboration, symbolizing the communication and understanding within a marriage.
Teaching new resident students the plating techniques for making Indonesian fruit salad (Rujak) (Photo/Source: National Immigration Agency Website)
The Hualien County Service Station pointed out that with the integration of new residents, Taiwan is gradually becoming a vibrant cultural melting pot where the acceptance of diverse cultures is a common societal value. The National Immigration Agency continues to promote the "Dream Building Project for New Residents and Their Children," encouraging new resident families to pursue their dreams. Registration for the 11th Dream Building Project is now open and will close on November 25, 2024. New resident families are encouraged to participate actively.
