ISLAMABAD, AUG 8 /DNA/ – The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Islamabad organized a vibrant lead-up event featuring traditional games, popular sport competition, Archipelagic cuisine, and community gathering, as part of a series of events ahead of Indonesia’s 81st Independence Anniversary.
The program was started by community gym program at Garuda Lawn, inside the Embassy’s premises. Hundreds of Indonesian nationals and their families gathered following the gymnastic movements demonstrated by Rama Fauzan, Indonesian student at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) along with his Pakistani counterpart, Maryam.
The event was graced by Chandra W. Sukotjo, Ambassador of Indonesia to Pakistan, accompanied by his spouse, Tamara Y. Sukotjo. The occasion was also attended by Indonesian nationals living in various cities in Pakistan from different backgrounds.
Alongside the Indonesian diplomats and their families, there were Indonesian students, pilots, journalists, staff members at several international organizations based in Pakistan, and housewives married to Pakistanis. Among the participants was Herwening Wiji Kalpiko of Bio Farma who has been in Pakistan to closely work with the Pakistani counterparts for potential joint-vaccine production.
In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Chandra W. Sukotjo expressed his pleasure at seeing Indonesian and Pakistani friends gathered together. “Your presence reflects the enduring friendship and strong people-to-people bonds between the two brotherly countries, as we celebrate together the Indonesia’s Independence Day with the motto, ‘Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil dan Makmur” (Indonesia Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous),” said Ambassador welcoming all Indonesian nationals at the Embassy as their home.
Keeping warm and welcoming spirit of the occasion, guests were presented with red and white shirts featuring a Batik pattern from Kalimantan, showcasing Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and national pride. Ambassador Chandra described the shirts as “a gift from the Indonesian taxpayers”, allowing all to share in the warmth, pride, and togetherness associated with Indonesia’s Independence celebration.
One of the highlights was the Indonesian food bazaar, featuring popular foods such as Nasi Padang (Padang-style rice), Siomay Ikan (steamed fish dumplings), Bakso Kuah (meatball soup), Es Cendol (sweet iced dessert), Peyek/Rempeyek (crispy peanut crackers), Mendoan (fried tempe), and Kacang Telur (seasoned egg-coated peanuts), offering the participants a delightful taste of Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage.
“It is wonderful to enjoy authentic Indonesian food. Although we live far from one another, this occasion brings us together as one family as Indonesians and gives us a beautiful sense of home and belonging,” said Desi Mediawati, an Indonesian national married to a Pakistani from Faisalabad.
The festive atmosphere continued with traditional Indonesian games for children and adults, including the popular Balap Karung (Sack Race), Tarik Tambang (Tug of War) and Joget Tomat (Tomato Dance), creating laughter, excitement and friendly competition among participants of all ages.
The occasion also carried special significance for Indonesian students living in Pakistan. “Although we are far from our homeland, this celebration makes us feel at home,” expressed Muhsin Nasir, Head of the Indonesian Student Association in Pakistan.
The sport competition featured badminton, table tennis, volleyball, and futsal tournaments, promoting teamwork, healthy competition, and camaraderie among the Indonesian community, Embassy officials, students, and all diaspora.
The Embassy of Indonesia expressed its sincere appreciation to the committee, volunteers, participants, and sponsors for their valuable contribution to the success of the event.
