RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian students in Tunisia are turning cultural heritage into a bridge for unity and diplomacy. The Indonesian Students Association (PPI) Tunisia marked its 32nd anniversary by showcasing traditional costumes and performances to strengthen national identity and solidarity among the Indonesian diasporas.

“In a foreign land, cultural identity is an emotional bond. Through traditional attire, we not only display the beauty of fabric and color, but also history, values, and our national identity,” said organizing committee member Muhamad Fathi Ilmy, a student at Az-Zaitunah University in Tunisia, on Monday, February 23, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

In a statement released in Jakarta on Monday, February 23, Muhamad Fathi explained that the traditional fashion show underscored that the 32nd anniversary was not merely a celebration of the organization’s longevity, but also a celebration of identity and solidarity.

“Amid the dynamics of global life, the Indonesian diaspora in Tunisia shows that they remain proud to carry the culture of the Archipelago, nurture unity, and strengthen family ties abroad,” he said, adding that through the event, PPI Tunisia reaffirmed its commitment to preserving cultural values while building a diaspora generation rooted in tradition and adaptable to modern challenges.

According to Muhamad, PPI Tunisia is not just a student organization but also a reflective space for Indonesians in Tunisia and a platform for cultural diplomacy on the global stage. “The togetherness of students at this event shows that PPI Tunisia is not merely a student organization, but a shared home for the Indonesian diaspora,” he added.

The cultural fashion show, held on Sunday, February 22, as the highlight of the anniversary celebration, symbolized unity among Indonesians living in Tunisia while maintaining their national identity abroad. Students presented traditional attire from various Indonesian provinces, accompanied by a Zapin dance from Sumatra and a martial arts performance that drew attention from members of the diaspora community.

Beyond the visual display, participants also shared brief explanations about the philosophy, symbolic meanings, and cultural values behind each costume, turning the celebration into an educational platform to introduce Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage to fellow diaspora members and invited guests. ***