VOC to explore Indonesian Connection

After successfully completing a series on the Cape Muslim’s link to the Malay archipelago in the Malaysian Connection, VOC will continue to retrace Cape Muslim roots, but this time it will explore go to a neighbouring country for a new program entitled The Indonesian Connection. On Saturday evening, 21 June 2008 the Indonesian Consul General based in Cape Town, Mr Andradjati, gave his wholehearted support to this program which he said would build even closer ties between the two countries.

Andradjati who arrived in Cape Town a year ago to fill the position of Consul General said since his arrival he had marveled at the close link between the two communities. “Much of this history was because of our national hero, Sheik Yusuf of Makasar who planted the seed of Islam here in the Cape. He was followed by other great Indonesian leaders like Tuan Guru who also did great work at the Cape,” he related. According to the consul-general, The Indonesian Connection, would reflect on this common history. The show is presently being produced by VOC’s Malaysian staffer, Izwandy Idris and is set to air later this year during Morning Expresso.

Andradiati said there was much to be proud of in the strong bond that has developed between his country and South Africa, based on common history and culture. This was further enhanced by shared religious and culture values with the Cape Muslim community, many of whom trace their forefathers back to Indonesia. As such, he strongly urged Cape Muslims to take up the challenge of traveling to his country in search of their origins. VOC

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