Silivinosi Tikoinadramaki Naulumatua’s journey as a humble village boy and to the public service has now landed him in one of the Asia-Pacific’s most diverse and energetic hotspots — Surakarta, Indonesia.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways civil servant is part of the 2025 cohort of the Indonesian Government’s TIAS scholarship programme, one of two awards offered alongside the KNB scholarship.
“I really appreciate it so much,” Silivinosi said in a video message to The Fiji Times.
“I give thanks to the Government of Indonesia, the Embassy of Indonesia in Fiji, and also my ministry for giving me this opportunity to come and pursue my studies.”
Previously based in Labasa with the Waterways Department, Silivinosi is now pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering at the University of Muhammadiyah in Surakarta City, where he is expected to spend the next three to four years.
Arriving in Indonesia for the first time was both exciting and daunting.
“It’s totally a new environment for me,” he said.
“I’ve never been to Indonesia before. The food, the people, the language, everything is new.”
Despite the cultural differences, he has found the transition encouraging.
“The people are so friendly, very polite and respectful. Even though most Indonesians are Muslims and I’m a Christian, they didn’t look at me from that perspective.
They really take care of us.”
He credits the scholarship administrators for providing not just academic support but also welfare assistance.
A recent meeting with a life insurance provider, arranged for scholarship recipients, reassured him that their wellbeing during their stay was being carefully considered.
Language, however, remains his greatest hurdle.
“Language is really a barrier for me,” he admitted.
“But one of the requirements for the scholarship is to study Bahasa Indonesia.”
Since November last year, he and fellow scholars have been immersed in language classes. Now in their fourth month, he says daily conversations, from shopping to using public transport, are becoming easier.
“It’s challenging, but it’s a really good experience for me, coming to a foreign country with different values and cultures. I’m really blessed.”
With a background in waterways management, Silivinosi’s civil engineering studies could one day strengthen Fiji’s infrastructure and climate resilience efforts.
He is urging other Fijians to consider Indonesia as a study destination.
“If students really want to come to Indonesia, I hope you will enjoy it, because I’m enjoying myself right now,” he said. “I urge you to apply. I know it will help.”
Silivinosi Naulumatua. Picture: SUPPLIED
