Indonesian expats celebrate 68th Independence Day

Indonesian expats celebrated the country’s 68th Independence Day at the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh on Wednesday night.
Chief guest Prince Turki bin Abdullah, deputy governor of Riyadh, and Gatot Abdullah Mansyur, Indonesian ambassador in Riyadh, inaugurated the event.
Speaking to Arab News, Prince Turki said: “I’m grateful to be with friends and colleagues to commemorate the anniversary of their independence here in Saudi Arabia, which is considered their second home.”
He said he hoped things were going well with the Indonesian community here, and was looking forward to strengthening relations between the two countries.
About 400 Indonesians participated in the celebrations, with many traveling from various cities to attend the event. A cultural troupe of young people performed traditional dances and another group sang national songs.
Celebrations included “Pesta Rakyat,” or community party, consisting of cultural shows, a bazaar and entertainment. The Indonesian ambassador said Pesta Rakyat was about unity and developing a deeper understanding of the meaning of Independence Day.
The bazaar was one of the highlights of the event, with Indonesian food and drink on offer, including products such as batik and handicrafts.
Indonesia gained independence on Aug. 17, 1945 after centuries of Dutch colonial rule and Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945.