CCIS (Center for Chinese Indonesian Studies) is a study center under the Institute for Research and Community Services (LPPM) of Petra Christian University. Its main focus is in the studies of things related to the lives of Chinese Indonesian community.
The Chinese Indonesian community has been part of Indonesia since long before the nation was formally established. However, many aspects of this community have not yet been widely studied in academic research. From their early migration from China to the present day, Chinese Indonesians have experienced significant processes of localization and acculturation that have shaped a distinct identity and diverse ways of life. CCIS focuses its attention on understanding and studying these processes.
CCIS works with many different stakeholders to carry out its mission. It supports academic communities in learning more about the lives of Chinese Indonesians through research and reliable information. CCIS collects and shares data and resources that can be used for national and international development. At the same time, it provides accessible information for the wider public to help build understanding and promote harmonious relationships among people from different ethnic backgrounds.
This exhibition features materials from CCIS, part of Petra Christian University Library’s special collections, and explores Chinese Indonesian experiences through the theme “Stories Written and Lived”. It presents two interconnected forms of storytelling. The written narratives are presented through books and research papers that examine Chinese Indonesian identity, history, and intellectual life. The lived narratives are conveyed through archival photographs documenting the development of evangelism in Indonesia by Chinese Indonesian descendants, capturing moments of mission, service, and community life. The exhibition also features a student work portraying the acculturation of Chinese and Indonesia wedding culture known as “Cina Benteng”, highlighting another dimension of Chinese Indonesian presence in Indonesian society. To extend the experience beyond the exhibition space, a series of accompanying activities are offered. Visitors who borrow books from the CCIS collection will receive a free keychain as a small token of appreciation. The exhibition is also complemented by fun activities, a Chinese knot workshop, and literacy classes, all designed to encourage learning, reflection, and meaningful engagement with the stories presented.
