MAKASSAR, RAKYAT NEWS— Kalla Institute of Kalla Group is honored to be one of the universities in Indonesia entrusted with the development of the American Corner in Makassar, located at Bikin Bikin Creative Hub, 1st Floor, Nipah Park. The American Corner is a program by the U.S. Embassy in collaboration with several Indonesian universities, designed as an information hub on education, politics, culture, and other aspects related to the United States.

Kalla Group is a prominent Indonesian conglomerate with diverse business interests spanning various sectors. Founded by entrepreneur Jusuf Kalla and his family, who has also served as Indonesia’s Vice President, the group operates in industries including automotive, energy, infrastructure, real estate, logistics, and agriculture. The Kalla Group is known for its significant contributions to the economic development of Eastern Indonesia and its commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable business practices.

Fatimah Kalla, Chairwoman of the Hadji Kalla Foundation, expressed gratitude to the U.S. Consulate in Surabaya and the entire team for their presence at the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing event.

She noted that following a meeting at Kalla Institute a few months ago, the U.S. Consulate General in Surabaya showed interest in establishing an American Corner at Bikin Bikin Creative Hub, Makassar. Kalla Institute responded positively, understanding that traditional American Corner locations within campuses might be less accessible to the public.

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“Bikin Bikin Creative Hub at Nipah Park was chosen because it is a gathering place for students and young entrepreneurs. We hope to enhance the skills of young entrepreneurs here, akin to those in the U.S. God willing, the American Corner will be operational soon, aiming for a launch by the end of December 2024, in line with the celebration of 75 years of U.S.-Indonesia diplomatic relations,” she stated.

Christopher Green, U.S. Consul General in Surabaya, expressed confidence in selecting Bikin Bikin Creative Hub as the American Corner’s location. “After experiencing the dynamic and creative environment here, it is evident that Bikin Bikin Creative Hub is perfect for fostering new ideas and productive collaborations,” he remarked.

“In Makassar, we are proud of the many alumni of U.S. exchange programs who have significantly contributed to the local community. I hope these alumni will actively engage in various activities and initiatives run by the American Corner,” Green added.

He mentioned that future programs offered through the American Corner will be diverse, including youth exchange programs, community economic empowerment initiatives, and educational consultations about studying in the U.S. All these services will be available to the public for free.

“Today is not just about signing an agreement but marking the beginning of many success stories we will create together. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Indonesia diplomatic relations. Thank you for everyone’s partnership and support. I look forward to all we will achieve together through the American Corner in Makassar,” he explained.

The MoU was signed by Christopher Green, U.S. Consul General in Surabaya, and Syamril, ST., M.Pd., Rector of Kalla Institute. The event was attended by Fatimah Kalla, Chairperson of the Hadji Kalla Foundation, Solihin Jusuf Kalla, Chief Executive Officer of Kalla, and other Kalla directors. The MoU signing took place at Bikin Bikin Creative Hub, Nipah Park, Makassar, on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. (Uki Ruknuddin)