Chinese language course brings Indonesian learners closer to Chinese culture-Xinhua
A growing interest in Chinese language and culture is taking root in Indonesia, fueled by both personal connections and pragmatic economic considerations. A free language program in Jakarta, operating within the Istiqlal Mosque, is at the forefront of this trend, offering instruction to a diverse group of students.
A Personal Connection to Language Learning
Pop Culture as a Catalyst
For Aulina Nadhira Mirranti, a Jakarta-based employee of a legal consulting firm, learning Chinese began with her admiration for Chinese pop singers Huang Renjun and Lay Zhang. She expressed a desire to one day communicate with them directly in their native language. Aulina enrolled in a free Chinese language program in December 2025 and, after nearly two months of study, is already beginning to understand portions of her idols’ live broadcasts.
A Collaborative Effort
The program is a result of cooperation between the Istiqlal Mosque, the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia, and the Confucius Institute at the University of Al Azhar Indonesia. The Confucius Institute provides both instructors and teaching materials. Mulyono Lodji, director of voice of Istiqlal, emphasized that the program aims to foster cross-cultural understanding, extending beyond mere language acquisition.
Expanding Opportunities and Cultural Exchange
Beyond Translation
The course, which lasts three months per level with classes held twice a week, incorporates interactive teaching methods, including practical exercises, conversation practice, and cultural simulations. Participants are also introduced to Chinese etiquette and traditions. Feri Ansori, director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Al Azhar Indonesia, noted that proficiency in Chinese is becoming increasingly valuable as economic ties between Indonesia and China strengthen.
He cautioned, however, that learning should be driven by a genuine interest in Chinese culture to maintain engagement. Multiple Confucius Institutes have been established across Indonesia, including a recently inaugurated institute at Padang State University on the island of Sumatra, indicating a growing network of Chinese language education.
Program Impact and Growth
The program at Istiqlal Mosque has already produced over 200 alumni in its three years of operation. Participants’ language skills are aligned with internationally recognized Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (the Chinese Proficiency Test) standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the creation of the Chinese language course at Istiqlal Mosque?
The course was established through cooperation between the Istiqlal Mosque, the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia, and the Confucius Institute at the University of Al Azhar Indonesia.
What is the structure of the Chinese language course?
Each course level lasts three months, with classes held twice a week. The course emphasizes interaction, practical exercises, and cultural simulations.
What is the Confucius Institute’s perspective on the importance of learning Chinese?
The Confucius Institute believes Chinese language proficiency is a strategic advantage as ties between Indonesia and China deepen, and that a genuine interest in Chinese culture is important for successful learning.
As demand for Chinese language education continues to rise, it remains to be seen whether the existing network of Confucius Institutes will be sufficient to meet the growing need, or if further expansion will be necessary to support this increasing cultural and economic exchange.