Founded in 1995, PERMAI-BC Association represents the heart of the Indonesian community in Vancouver, BC and throughout British Columbia. What began as a grassroots initiative by local Indonesians, Dutch-Indonesians, and Canadians who had lived in Indonesia has evolved into a vital cultural and social institution serving approximately 7,000 Indonesians across the province, with half residing in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
At its core, PERMAI-BC is driven by a mission to unite and support the Indonesian community by fostering inclusive social connections, preserving and promoting Indonesian culture and heritage, and building awareness and appreciation of Indonesian arts and traditions within Canadian society. The organization deliberately operates as a non-political, non-ethnic, and non-religious space where community members can reconnect with their cultural roots and build meaningful relationships. This commitment to inclusivity and cultural preservation has made PERMAI-BC an essential gathering place for Indonesians seeking community, belonging, and cultural continuity in Canada.
Beyond its social mission, PERMAI-BC actively celebrates and shares Indonesian culture with the broader Vancouver community through flagship events like Indonesia Fest and the Kuliner Initiative, which introduce traditional performances, cuisine, and arts to Canadian audiences. The organization maintains a membership directory, publishes newsletters, and operates the PERMAI BC Hub—a dedicated social network strengthening bonds among community members. Led by a dedicated volunteer board that has evolved over nearly three decades, PERMAI-BC remains committed to honoring Indonesian heritage while building bridges between cultures in Vancouver, BC.
Vancouver, British Columbia