Fitri Amalia Shintasiwi

Tell us about yourself! 

I am a PhD student at the University of Sydney, specializing in sociolinguistics within the field of language and culture. My research explores how Indonesian workers in Australia navigate social relations with their colleagues in multicultural workplaces, focusing on their adaptation strategies. Prior to my PhD, I spent five years as a lecturer in Indonesia, where I developed a deep passion for teaching and mentoring students. During this time, I also engaged in various research projects and academic collaborations. I enjoy travelling to new places, as it enhances my intercultural skills and deepens my understanding of diverse cultures.

Where does your interest in Indonesia stem from?

My interest in Indonesia stems from my personal heritage, as I was born and raised in Indonesia. This background has naturally influenced my desire to understand more about the country's rich cultural and linguistic landscape. This personal connection, combined with my academic pursuits and professional experiences, has fuelled my passion for exploring sociolinguistic dynamics within Indonesian society. If not me, then who will preserve and advance the understanding of Indonesia's unique cultural and linguistic heritage?

What is the nature of your engagement with Indonesia – are you an academic, a professional, an alumni?

Currently, I am an academic, pursuing a PhD in sociolinguistics at the University of Sydney, where my research focuses on Indonesian workers in multicultural workplaces in Australia. Professionally, I spent five years as a lecturer at Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia, which allowed me to deeply engage with the local academic community and contribute to the field of language and culture.

Have you ever been to an Indonesia Council Open Conference and if so, what is your fondest memory?

Not yet, but I am scheduled to present my research findings at the Indonesia Council Open Conference 2025.

How do you think organisations like Indonesia Council can improve Australia-Indonesia relations?

The Indonesian Council can be a bridge to improve Australia-Indonesia relations by fostering better understanding and cooperation. They can organize cultural exchanges, educational programs, and joint research projects that bring people closer together.

What are some of the challenges and opportunities in the Indonesia-Australia relationship?

I focus on the challenges of language and culture, where differences in cultural norms and values can lead to misunderstandings, and language barriers can complicate communication. Negative past experiences and interactions between Indonesians and Australians may reinforce stereotypes, affecting perceptions on both sides.

However, these challenges highlight the need for educational and cultural exchange programs, as well as language learning initiatives. Encouraging the study of Indonesian in Australia and English in Indonesia can bridge communication gaps and enhance cultural appreciation, fostering mutual understanding and respect

Tell us about your favourite Indonesian food experience

I absolutely love Indonesian food because I grew up with those amazing flavours. Street food is my favourite—it's not only affordable but also incredibly flavourful. Plus, ordering from Gojek or Grab Food is super convenient, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals at home. There's just something special about the vibrant street food culture that fancy restaurants can't match!

What’s your favourite Indonesian food and why?

I really love eating Batagor and Siomay because I enjoy the chewy texture combined with the spicy and savoury peanut sauce. I could eat them every day if I could.

What’s your favourite Indonesian music/song/writer?

I admire all the songs from Sheila on 7, a band that was quite popular when I was growing up. Songs like 'Melompat Lebih Tinggi' and 'Lirik Lagu Kita' have magical lyrics with deep meanings. I still listen to their songs in my leisure time.

What’s your favourite Indonesian idiom?

"Ngundhuh wohing pakerti."It is a Javanese idiom that means, "Whatever we do will bring results that match our efforts."

[Last month’s PAY IT FORWARD question]:

What is one piece of advice you would give to an Australian travelling to Indonesia for the first time?

Engage with the local community and don't hesitate to ask questions if you need help. Indonesian people are always willing to assist you. If you face a language barrier, just use Google Translate!

And don’t forget to suggest a pay it forward question for next month 😊 :

What is one Indonesian practice or value that you find heartwarming and inspiring?