The Indonesian expatriate community in Abu Dhabi recently gathered at the embassy to celebrate the 79th Indonesian Independence Day. The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia through traditional dresses. Despite the scorching sun, community members participated in the flag hoisting ceremony, led by a seven-member ‘Paskibra’ troop. The ‘Paskibra’ is a special group responsible for flag-raising ceremonies in Indonesia. Indonesian Ambassador to the UAE, Husin Bagis, emphasized the role of expatriates as national ambassadors, urging them to build a positive reputation and remain united in diversity.
The event was marked by a vibrant atmosphere as attendees donned colourful traditional attire from various Indonesian regions. Ambassador Bagis himself wore a Betawinese ‘Demang’ with a songket sarong, while others showcased traditional dresses from Java, Betawi, Sumatra, and Sulawesi, many featuring intricate batik patterns. The celebration included a traditional ‘tumpeng’ dish symbolizing prosperity and gratitude, along with various games, contests, and a children’s fashion show. The festive atmosphere highlighted the unity and cultural richness of the Indonesian community living in Abu Dhabi.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Bagis expressed hope for a closer relationship between Indonesia and the UAE. President Sheikh Mohamed is scheduled to visit Indonesia next month, indicating a strengthening of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Additionally, Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto is expected to attend the 20th World Pencak Silat Championship in Abu Dhabi in December. The events signify continued cooperation and cultural exchanges between Indonesia and the UAE, fostering mutual understanding and friendship.
The gathering of Indonesian expatriates at the embassy in Abu Dhabi to celebrate the country’s Independence Day was a joyous occasion filled with cultural pride and unity. The event showcased Indonesia’s rich heritage through traditional dresses, reflecting the diversity and uniqueness of different regions. The flag hoisting ceremony, led by the ‘Paskibra’ troop, symbolized national pride and unity among the Indonesian community living in Abu Dhabi. Ambassador Bagis’ message of building a positive reputation and staying united in diversity resonated with the attendees, emphasizing the importance of representing Indonesia positively wherever they are.
The vibrant atmosphere of the celebration was enhanced by the colourful traditional attire worn by the attendees, depicting the intricate batik patterns and traditional costumes from various Indonesian regions. The traditional ‘tumpeng’ dish served during the festivities symbolized prosperity and gratitude, adding a cultural touch to the event. The inclusion of games, contests, and a children’s fashion show added to the joyous occasion, bringing the community closer together through shared experiences and celebrations.
Looking ahead, the hope for a closer relationship between Indonesia and the UAE signifies a growing partnership between the two countries. The upcoming visits of President Sheikh Mohamed and Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto to each other’s countries further strengthen diplomatic ties and cultural exchanges. The participation of President Subianto in the World Pencak Silat Championship in Abu Dhabi underscores the significance of sports diplomacy in promoting mutual understanding and collaboration. The events ahead promise to deepen the bond between Indonesia and the UAE, fostering a relationship built on friendship, cooperation, and cultural exchange.
