Today, all Indonesian nationals around the world are celebrating the 60th anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence Day. During its 60 years of independence, Indonesia as a nation has undergone a massive change and remarkable transformation in its social, economic and political systems.
From the early years of revolutionary struggle to the last years of reformation, Indonesia has been a democratic nation. It has now emerged as one of the biggest democratic countries on the world map, advocating peace, tolerance and global fraternity.
This has been made possible by the endeavor, hard work and sacrifices made by the hard-working Indonesian people. The celebrations of Indonesian independence day is not merely an occasion, rather it has a profound evocative power, which flashes glimpses of sacrifices made by our great national heroes to preserve and promote this lovely archipelago. The occasion also renews our determination to imitate the path of our great founding fathers and leaders as well as their ideals.
On the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia, I have the honor and privilege to convey to all Indonesians living in Saudi Arabia my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes. The celebrations of Indonesian Independence Day here in Saudi Arabia also remind us of the brotherly relations between Riyadh and Jakarta.
The growing cooperation between the two governments and the people of Indonesia and Saudi Arabia is an example to reckon with.
Over the years, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia have steadily developed a very cordial and warm relationship based on shared political, economic and social interests. Indonesia and Saudi Arabia have shown common approach and identical views on bilateral, regional and international issues of common concerns.
The two countries have pledged to work together on issues confronting the Muslim world and the Middle East peace process, while throwing all their weight behind in the fight against terrorism. Saudi Arabia too continues to support Indonesia at every step, especially during the difficult times.
I am confident that in the coming years Indonesia and Saudi Arabia will continue to explore new areas of cooperation for mutual benefit. This will further reinforce the strong bonds of friendship which Indonesia and Saudi Arabia already enjoy.
To our Indonesian fellow countrymen in the Kingdom, I greatly admire and salute the strong national spirit and dedication that has been shown by all of you. Your presence here far away from home plays an important role in promoting people-to-people contact, friendship and good will between the two sides.
I am personally proud to see your devotion to work and your commendable compliance with the rules and regulations of the host government. You (all Indonesian expatriates working in the Kingdom) are all goodwill ambassadors representing Indonesia in this country. Your every act or deed will contribute to the strengthening of Indonesia-Saudi relationship.
On a concluding note, let me make a fervent appeal to all Indonesians living in Saudi Arabia — let’s seize this opportunity to take a pledge to live up to the expectations of our national heroes and translate our nation’s ideals into reality as they are enshrined in Pancasila. Let’s keep up and consolidate solidarity and unity among ourselves to pursue peace, prosperity, justice, stability and better future for the generations to come.
Sjachwien Adenan
Charge d’Affaires
