Indonesians in Beijing celebrate independence and gold medal

The Jakarta Post ,  Jakarta   |  Sun, 08/17/2008 3:37 PM  |  World

Hundreds of members of the Indonesian community, including athletes participating in the Beijing Olympic Games, attended a flag-raising ceremony at the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing to mark the 63rd anniversary of independence on Sunday.

"The ceremony this year is different from that of previous years because it was attended by Indonesian athletes and officials, participating in the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games," Indonesian Ambassador to China, Sudrajat, told Antara in Beijing on Sunday.

Also present at the ceremony were Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) chairwoman Rita Subowo, Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) chairman Sutiyoso and Chief de Mission of Indonesian contingent Rosihan Arsyad.

Indonesians in Beijing used the occasion to greet and congratulate the athletes, especially badminton players, Markis Kido and Hendra Setiawan, who won a gold medal in the men's doubles, and Maria Kristin, who won bronze in the women's singles.

Markis Kido and Hendra Setiawan were the center of attention during the event. Wearing their gold medals, the two champions shook hands with well-wishers and posed for pictures with many of the people attending the Independence Day celebration.

"We are both thankful for their support. We want to share our happiness with those who celebrated our success in getting the gold medals," said Markis Kido.(rid)

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