Reconnecting and reminiscing with Leiden alumni in Indonesia
Leiden Calling Alumni Homecoming Reception 2025
Laughter and nostalgia filled the Erasmus Huis square on Saturday 11 October 2025. More than 80 alumni gathered at Leiden Calling Alumni Homecoming Reception to reconnect with their old classmates and expand their professional networks.
Leiden Calling Alumni Homecoming Reception 2025 is the first post-pandemic alumni event organised by Leiden University Alumni Association in Indonesia (Ikatan Alumni Leiden di Indonesia or IKALI) and Leiden Indonesia Office. The event also aimed to introduce IKALI to the new alumni and invite them to participate in its organisational management.
Ambassador Marc Gerritsen gave one of the welcoming speeches that afternoon, acknowledging the unique power of the alumni network in Indonesia. In line with the remarks, Bondan Kanumoyoso, an alumnus who currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Indonesia, explained the historical role of Leiden University alumni in Indonesia.
The organising committee served up games that brought back memories of studying in Leiden. From the knowledge test about the Netherlands to a mini bicycle race, the activities energised the crowd and sparked friendly rivalry.
In total, we welcomed 75 alumni bachelor’s, master’s and PhD students, the majority of whom are graduates of Leiden Law School, followed closely by the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs and the Faculty of Science. There was plenty of interest in joining future events, with some saying they would like to become more actively involved in the association of Leiden alumni in Indonesia.
The next step will be to organise similar activities in the new year, with more active roles for young alumni. We’ll keep you updated.
Cheers!
Office of Leiden University in Indonesia