SOUTH AFRICA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI) in Cape Town, South Africa, recently hosted the Indonesian Folk Market (Pasar Rakyat Indonesia) on November 9, 2024, at their premises in the city. The event aimed to foster stronger business ties between Indonesia and South Africa, focusing on the tourism and creative economy sectors.

As part of the event, a business matching session was organized to bring together key industry players. This included a collaboration between the Asia Africa Film and TV Intercontinental Alliance (AATVIA), AMIKOM Yogyakarta Film University, and Bali Tourism Promotion.

The discussions focused on developing tourism packages and content that could attract more visitors to Indonesia.

KJRI Cape Town’s Consul General, Tudiono, emphasized the significance of the event, noting that the 2024 Indonesian Folk Market also marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and South Africa. The business matching sessions are seen as a way to not only boost tourism but also enhance overall economic cooperation between the two nations.

In addition to the tourism-focused discussions, AATVIA engaged in meetings with the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC). These discussions focused on using film and promotional content to highlight the benefits and production of palm oil, targeting both the local African market and international networks.

The event also showcased Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, featuring a variety of traditional Betawi dances, including Neng Calakan, Kembang Dare, and Langgam Kedongan, performed by a dance group from Jakarta.

EON Group, a Cape Town-based performing arts school, also participated, presenting performances like the Saman dance, Piring dance, and Balinese Wiratania dance.

Notably, many of the dance instructors at EON Group are alumni of Indonesia’s cultural exchange programs, having received scholarships to study Indonesian arts. This highlights the ongoing cultural collaboration between the two countries, reflecting the success of Indonesia’s educational and artistic outreach efforts.

The event attracted significant interest from both the local community and the Indonesian diaspora, who participated by offering a wide range of traditional Indonesian dishes. Visitors had the chance to sample iconic Indonesian foods such as Soto Betawi, Mie Goreng Jawa, Gado-Gado, and Sate, as well as beloved desserts like Es Teler, Es Campur, and a variety of kue (snacks) such as Onde-Onde, Klepon, and Dadar Gulung.

These culinary delights were a hit with attendees, providing a sensory experience that brought the flavors of Indonesia to South Africa. The participation of the Indonesian Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) helped promote these offerings, enhancing the overall cultural exchange.

In addition to the culinary offerings, the event also featured several Indonesian brands and products. The Indonesian Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) facilitated the participation of companies such as Indofood, Kalbe International, and BCAP Logistics. Bali Promotion Board, Batik Chic, and CPOPC also had a significant presence, showcasing Indonesia’s diverse products and boosting trade relations between the two countries.

The event attracted 2,663 visitors, underlining the growing interest in Indonesian products and culture in South Africa. The participation of these brands and institutions highlights Indonesia’s continued efforts to promote its economic and cultural assets on the global stage.

KJRI Cape Town’s initiative underscores the importance of fostering stronger diplomatic and economic ties between Indonesia and South Africa. By creating opportunities for business matchmaking, showcasing Indonesian culture, and promoting local products, the event served as a platform for collaboration across multiple sectors.

Looking ahead, there is a strong commitment from both sides to expand bilateral cooperation, particularly in tourism, cultural exchange, and trade. The Indonesian Folk Market stands as a testament to the dynamic and growing relationship between the two countries.

As the event drew to a close, the significance of the occasion was not lost on the attendees, with the celebrations marking three decades of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and South Africa. The Indonesian Folk Market served as both a reflection of the enduring friendship between the nations and a promising glimpse into the future of their cooperation.

The success of the Indonesian Folk Market in Cape Town sets a positive precedent for further collaborative efforts between Indonesia and South Africa. With continued focus on business, culture, and tourism, the two countries are well-positioned to build on their 30-year diplomatic history, fostering greater mutual understanding and prosperity in the years to come. (Uki Ruknuddin)

 

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