(Phnom Penh): The spirit of Indonesia’s independence was celebrated in Phnom Penh as around 250 Indonesian citizens attended a flag-raising ceremony marking the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia on Monday morning.

The ceremony, which began at 7:00 a.m. local time, was held in a solemn yet spirited atmosphere, reflecting the strong sense of togetherness among the Indonesian community in Cambodia. Many Indonesian citizens attended the ceremony wearing traditional attire and wastra—traditional Indonesian textiles—showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and diversity that continue to thrive among Indonesians in Cambodia.

The raising of the Indonesian Red and White flag was led by Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of Indonesia in Phnom Penh, Krishnajie Partadiredja. The flag was raised by the Indonesian Flag-Raising Troop (Paskibra), whose members this year were all women.

Following the ceremony, the commemoration continued with the traditional cutting of tumpeng, a cone-shaped rice dish symbolizing gratitude for Indonesia’s independence, which has been sustained for more than eight decades.

In his remarks, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Krishnajie called on all Indonesian citizens in Cambodia to use the Independence Day commemoration as an opportunity to strengthen unity and make positive contributions during their time in Cambodia.

“The progress Indonesia enjoys today is the result of the struggles and sacrifices of our predecessors. It is our responsibility to carry forward their struggle in pursuit of an Indonesia that is sovereign, just and prosperous,” Krishnajie Partadireja said.

He further underscored that Indonesia has consistently overcome challenges whenever all elements of society have upheld the spirit of unity.

“Guided by this spirit of struggle, the Embassy of Indonesia in Phnom Penh continues to play an active role in advancing Indonesia’s national interests by strengthening cooperation with Cambodia,” he added.

The 81st Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence in Phnom Penh also provided an opportunity to strengthen the friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Cambodia. In addition to members of the Indonesian community, the ceremony was attended by representatives of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and the Cambodian National Police, important partners in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

In recognition of their support for Indonesia’s diplomatic mission, the Embassy presented awards to several Friends of Indonesia. An award was presented to H.E. Chhay Sinarith, Chair of the Secretariat of the Commission for Combating Online Scam (CCOS), in recognition of his support for efforts to combat online scams and protect Indonesian citizens. Representatives of the Cambodian immigration authorities were also recognized for their contribution to facilitating the repatriation of Indonesian citizens to Indonesia.

Appreciation was also extended to the AirAsia Ground Handling team at Techo International Airport for their support in facilitating the return of Indonesian citizens to Indonesia, as well as to Cambodian media outlets for their contribution to disseminating information and promoting a positive image of Indonesia.

This year’s annual award for an Indonesian citizen was presented to Dalton Wong, President of the Indonesia–Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening economic and business relations between Indonesia and Cambodia and supporting the Embassy’s economic diplomacy efforts.

The awards underscore the important role of collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders—including government authorities, the business community, the media and the public—in strengthening Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts in Cambodia.

The 81st Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence in Phnom Penh was not only a moment to commemorate Indonesia’s long journey as an independent nation, but also an opportunity to strengthen unity among Indonesian citizens, express appreciation to valued partners, and further deepen the friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Cambodia.
=FRESH NEWS