ISLAMABAD: The two-day Indonesian Expo 2025 dubbed as a step in strengthening the historic bond between the two countries concluded on Sunday.

The expo took centre stage at the Centaurus Mall where Indonesian Ambassador Chandra W. Sukotjo inaugurated it on Saturday. The embassy said the event honoured the 75-year milestone of diplomatic relations grounded in mutual respect, cultural affinity and shared ideas of the better world.

The opening ceremony was attended the former chairman of the Senate, Mushahid Hussain Syed, as chief guest.

“Why hold it in a shopping mall? Because friendship should not stay inside closed halls. It should be celebrated with the people, right here where families, youth and communities gather,” Ambassador Sukotjo explained the reason behind choosing Centaurus Mall as the venue for the Expo.

“This is not about protocol, it’s about sharing joy, culture, and togetherness between Indonesians and Pakistanis,” he said, highlighting deep connections between the two countries.

Moreover, the embassy’s women association led by Tamara Y. Sukotjo performed an enchanting an Indonesian bamboo-made instrument called Angklung, enthralling the audience with its harmonious resonance with popular songs of “I have a dream” and “Dil-Dil Pakistan.”

The exhibit space in the mall became alive with music and dance performances where visitors also got a chance to treat their taste buds to Indonesian delicacies.

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2025