Kolping Indonesia realigned their work and elected a new Board of Directors at the National Convention at the end of March. Adam Musi is the new National President, and Father Zosimus from Ruteng was elected National Praeses. Both are from the island of Flores.
The President of the neighbouring Kolping Association of Timor-Leste, Maria Ligia de Fatima, and the Education desk officer, Bonifacio de Jesus Moreira Soares, had travelled by land and sea to Ruteng, a journey of several days, in order to attend the Indonesian National Convention in the west of the island of Flores as observers.
The newly elected President, Adam Musi, emphasised the realignment of the Association: “This Convention marks a new beginning for the mission of Kolping Indonesia. With democracy, transparency and accountability, we will work together to expand the presence of Kolping all over the country.”
Agricultural projects, small livestock, the establishment of savings groups and the granting of small loans are to be the future priorities of the Kolping Association work in Indonesia. Further training, environmental and climate protection as well as social projects are also at the top of the list. In his greeting, General Secretary Dr Markus Demele congratulated the Association on its fresh start and announced his visit for November, which will include a training session for the Board of Directors.
The Kolping Association in Indonesia has existed since 1994. It was founded on the island of Sumba, after which it quickly spread into various other regions.
At present, the Association is present in the two dioceses of Ruteng (Flores Island) and Weetebula (Sumba Island) as well as in the archdiocese of Kupang (West Timor).
