OUREI Celebrates Indonesian Independence in Houston
On August 17, 2007, Indonesia’s 62nd Anniversary of Independence was celebrated across Indonesia and at the many embassies and consulates across the world. The Orang Utan Republik Education Initiative (OUREI) brought its message of conservation education to Houston, Texas at the invitation of the Indonesian Consulate for both the August 17th reception and the August 18th “pasar malam” or night fair where thousands of Indonesians and their friends and family enjoyed food, dance and song in the spacious outdoor parking area.
OUREI Chairman Dr. Gary Shapiro was warmly received by Consul General Kria Fahmi Pasaribu and his wife Astuti, in the foyer of the beautiful consulate building located in the prestigious Westpark section of Houston. Many in Houston’s diplomatic corps and the city’s mayor were in attendance. The evening of brief speeches, dance and delicious Indonesian food was followed by private discussions with the Consul General and many of the consuls until late night. Mr. Calderon Dalimunthe, Consul of Information and Cultural Affairs arranged for Dr. Shapiro to meet with Consul General the following afternoon to further explain the situation facing orangutans and the programs of OUREI.
The Consul General was raised in the small town of Sibolga, Sumatra. During the presentation the Consul General learned that his home town is adjacent to two small populations of wild orangutans- the most southern populations remaining on Sumatra. He appeared concerned about the endangered primate’s fate and expressed interest in helping OUREI in furthering its mission in Houston and in Sumatra.
Following the meeting, the Consul General and his wife opened the “pasar malam” and met with the attendees throughout the evening. Dr. Shapiro met hundreds of interested Indonesians and others who signed the “Stop the Illegal Orangutan Trade” petition and learned more about the work of OUREI. Several Indonesians expressed interest in helping to promote orangutan awareness in the Houston area. Dr. Shapiro even had the opportunity of addressing the crowd on stage to invite the people to learn more at the OUREI booth.
With the assistance of the Consulate General’s office, OUREI plans to work with these concerned individuals to promote Orangutan Caring Week (November 4-10, 2007) in various venues in Houston, including the Indonesian Consulate visitor’s center. Interested people in the greater Houston area who would like more information are invited to contact the Consulate office at (713) 785-1691.
