Monday, 25 May 2026
Indonesia showcases heritage at joint cultural festival in Cairo
Indonesia’s embassy in Cairo and Egypt’s Museum of Islamic Art co-hosted a cultural event on Sunday titled “Global Eid al‑Adha” in downtown Cairo, in a bid to deepen cultural exchange and people‑to‑people ties between the two countries, the embassy said.
The event featured Indonesian traditional fashion shows, cultural documentaries and food stands, with participation from Indonesian students and community members living in Egypt. Organisers said the programme was designed to showcase Indonesia’s cultural richness and strengthen longstanding civilizational links with Egypt.
In opening remarks, Deputy Chief of Mission Muhammad Zaim Al‑Khalis said the event was “a civilizational bridge” reflecting the depth of bilateral ties and the expanding strategic partnership between Jakarta and Cairo. He noted progress in relations following the signing of a Joint Statement on Strategic Partnership by President Prabowo Subianto and President Abdel Fattah al‑Sisi in Cairo in April 2025.
Al‑Khalis also pointed to growing economic cooperation, saying bilateral trade surpassed 2 billion dollars in 2025 for the first time. He said Indonesia hopes to expand collaboration in halal industries, renewable energy, tourism, logistics and the digital economy.
Egyptian officials, cultural figures, diplomats and media representatives attended the event, alongside partners of the embassy and members of the Indonesian community.
The Museum of Islamic Art’s director, Ahmed Siyam, welcomed guests and said the museum is committed to hosting cultural programmes that reflect global heritage and support international cooperation.
Indonesian performances during the evening included religious chanting, traditional music and folk arts, along with screenings of documentary films by the museum and the Indonesian embassy. Displays of traditional dress and Indonesian cuisine offered visitors a glimpse into the country’s customs.
The evening concluded with commemorative photos and praise for the event’s organisation. The embassy said the celebration reflects Indonesia’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding with Egypt and strengthening friendship between the two nations.
