INDONESIANS RECEIVE DISTINGUISHED AUSTRALIAN ALMUNI AWARD

Jakarta, March 24 (ANTARA) - Australian alumni Dr I Made Nitis and Fanina Yulianthi were recognized at a reception hosted by the Australian Ambassador Bill Farmer and Consul General Lex Bartlem on Friday 20 March, a press statement of the Australian embassy said here on Tuesday.

Ambassador Farmer said it was the commitment of outstanding individuals such as Dr Nitis and Yulianthi that made a real difference in our community.

"I am delighted to present these awards to two remarkable people who are making significant contributions to the development of Indonesia and to the strong people-to-people links between our two countries," Ambassador Farmer said.

Dr Nitis was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for his lifelong achievements and contribution to land farming with innovative research in Bali and eastern Indonesia.

Dr Nitis' close links with Australia include his work with the Australian Center for International Agricultural Research.

Yulianthi was awarded the Inspirational Alumni Award for her outstanding work with small businesses in Indonesia who strive to enter and operate in the international arena.

She Yulianthi helps businesses to develop strong networks and conducts entrepreneurship training in remote areas to improve human resources.

Australian Alumni Award ceremonies also took place in Jakarta last month to recognize other outstanding Indonesians who have worked tirelessly in their community or made lifelong achievements and contributions to Indonesia.

Nominations for the awards are made by alumni through the Australian Alumni Network, Ozmate and the finalists are decided by an independent judging panel made up of alumni.