In September 2011, the KGI Team reached out to Batusangkar.  Where is Batusangkar? It’s in West Sumatra just near Bukittinggi, Sawahlunto, Payakumbuh and Solok.  In short, it’s in the nice part of West Sumatra where the surroundings are still green and the weather is cool. 

Why Batusangkar was selected for the KGI outreach activity? What’s so special about it? Well, there were 2 reasons really. First was that Radio Luhak Nan Tuo (Radio Pemda) has been broadcasting KGI radio programs since 2008 and both Dishubkominfo (the office who manages the radio) and the staff are very committed to broadcasting the program. Second was becasue of an English teacher there and his name is Mr Marjohan, a loyal supporter of KGI fo rmany years.  Previously he and his students entered our special KGI Competition from the March 2011 bulletin. They didn’t win but their entry made KGI realized that we should visit our long time friends. 

The great support from Pemda, Dishubkominfo (0ffice of transportation, communication and informatics), Radio Luhak Nan Tuo, DIKNAS (Office of National Education in Batusangkar) and MGMP Bahasa Inggris SMP & SMA (English Teachers’ Association of SMP & SMA), and with wonderful & valuable assistance from Mr Jo (Marjohan) and Mr Ay (Arjus Putra), provided the key to the success of this outreach event from KGI.  And what made it even more special was that Bapak Bupati Kab. Tanah Datar, Ir. M. Shadiq Pasadigoe, SH, MM, was willing to meet us  (over dinner) to show his support.

During the 4 day trip it was great to see how English teachers and students were very keen on participating in KGI activities.  However we also found out that there are still many people who don’t really know/understand about Australian AID or development projects funded/supported by Australian AID. Having ‘outreach’ programs is obviously a good way to spread the information about the good work of Australian have been and are doing in Indonesia.

Kang Guru Indonesia Batusangkar video - October 2011