Harmony in Motion: Building Friendship Through Indonesia’s Arts and Culture was inaugurated by Indonesian Ambassador to Cambodia, Santo Darmosumarto, and honored by the presence of Her Royal Highness Samdech Reach Botrei Preah Anoch Norodom Arunrasmy. Hong Raksmey
The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh hosted a vibrant cultural showcase, Harmony in Motion: Building Friendship Through Indonesia’s Arts and Culture, on December 6 at the recently renovated Chaktomuk Conference Hall.
This event capped a year of celebrations marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Indonesia and Cambodia, underscoring the nations' close relationship and shared cultural heritage.
The event was inaugurated by Indonesian ambassador to Cambodia Santo Darmosumarto, and honoured by the presence of Her Royal Highness Samdech Reach Botrei Preah Anoch Norodom Arunrasmy.
Among the distinguished guests were Pen Moni Makara, secretary of state from Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, and Ani Nigeriawati, director of public diplomacy from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In his opening remarks to an audience of government officials, diplomats, students, business leaders, media representatives and the members of the Indonesian expatriate community, ambassador Darmosumarto highlighted the enduring power of cultural diplomacy.
“The friendship between Indonesia and Cambodia, built over the past 65 years, is rooted in mutual respect, shared values and cultural exchange. Events like Harmony in Motion highlight how art transcends borders and brings people together,” he said.
Cambodian traditional performers dance during Harmony in Motion: Building Friendship Through Indonesia’s Arts and Culture. Hong Raksmey
With strong support from the Kingdom’s fine arts ministry, the evening featured a fusion of traditional Indonesian and Cambodian dance, accompanied by a pulsating soundtrack which featured highlights of the diverse styles of the “land of a thousand islands”, interspersed with classical Khmer.
Among the highlights was a phenomenal collaborative dance performed by students from the Department of Performing Arts and alumni of the Indonesian Arts and Culture Scholarship (BSBI).
The performances celebrated Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity, showcasing traditional dances from various regions, while Cambodian performers added their unique flair with the instantly recognisable folk dances of the ancient Khmer Empire.
With strong support from Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the evening featured a fusion of traditional Indonesian and Cambodian performances. Hong Raksmey
The joint presentation stood as a testament to the deep connections fostered through cultural exchange.
Princess Norodom Arunrasmy reflected on the historic bond between the two nations during her warmly received address, noting that the relationship is “Rooted in shared values and enriched by the close relationship of their leaders”.
“President Sukarno and His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk shared more than friendship – they shared a brotherhood. Their commitment to peace and cooperation set the foundation for the enduring relationship we celebrate today,” she said.
Alumni from Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam joined the performances, showcasing the program’s broad impact. Hong Raksmey
She also recalled several previous moments of cultural exchange, such as the Royal Family of Cambodia's performances in Indonesia, led by the late Princess Norodom Buppha Devi, whose interpretations of Javanese dances delighted Indonesian audiences.
The event also celebrated over 20 years of the Indonesian Arts and Culture Scholarship (BSBI), a flagship programme administered by the Indonesian foreign ministry.
Alumni from Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam joined the performances, showcasing the programme’s broad impact.
Since 2004, BSBI has welcomed 1,071 participants from 84 countries, including 24 Cambodians.
The programme offers participants immersive experiences in Indonesian arts, from traditional dance and music to fine arts, fostering a network of “Friends of Indonesia.”
The audience of government officials, diplomats, students, business leaders, media representatives, and members of the Kingdom’s Indonesian community were treated to a high-energy performance. Hong Raksmey
Ambassador Darmosumarto praised the program’s role in strengthening ties.
“Through cultural exchanges like BSBI and events like tonight, we continue to build bridges of understanding between our nations, ensuring that our friendship endures for generations to come,” he said.
Ani Nigeriawati praised the partnership and reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to cultural collaboration.
“We are thankful for the Cambodian Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts’ full support for this event, which reflects the close and meaningful relationship between our countries. Art and culture are powerful tools to connect and inspire our people,” she remarked.
