Unveiling Indonesia Through Russian Eyes
BEYOND BORDERS:
Indonesia holds the title of the largest country in Asia and the fourth-most populous country globally. Its expansive territory spans a diverse range of ecosystems, cultures, and traditions. With that, Indonesia boasts incredible cultural diversity with over 300 ethnic groups and more than 700 spoken languages.
Our opportunity is to introduce the richness of Indonesian culture as seen through the lens of Russian observers. This exploration delves into cultural nuances, historical facets, and contemporary dynamics, providing a fresh narrative that intertwines Russian viewpoints with the rich tapestry of Indonesian life.
Our opportunity is to introduce the richness of Indonesian culture as seen through the lens of Russian observers. This exploration delves into cultural nuances, historical facets, and contemporary dynamics, providing a fresh narrative that intertwines Russian viewpoints with the rich tapestry of Indonesian life.
PART ONE
Indonesia-Russia Relations: Overview
Indonesia and Russia have deep historical roots, marked by diplomatic ties that date back to 1950. Over the years, these nations have built a strong foundation for collaboration across various sectors. Starting with diplomatic relations, Indonesia and Russia maintain embassies in each other's capitals, fostering regular high-level dialogues and diplomatic exchanges.
Cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and educational programs contribute to a rich tapestry of shared experiences, fostering a sense of appreciation for each other's heritage. Beyond formal diplomacy and economic partnerships, the friendship between Indonesia and Russia is also evident in the strong people-to-people connections. Exchange programs, particularly in the realm of education, enable students and academics from both nations to engage in cross-cultural learning experiences, further strengthening the bond between these diverse countries.
Cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and educational programs contribute to a rich tapestry of shared experiences, fostering a sense of appreciation for each other's heritage. Beyond formal diplomacy and economic partnerships, the friendship between Indonesia and Russia is also evident in the strong people-to-people connections. Exchange programs, particularly in the realm of education, enable students and academics from both nations to engage in cross-cultural learning experiences, further strengthening the bond between these diverse countries.
How much do the Russians actually know about Indonesia? What do Russians actually think about the cultures, places, or even the locals there?
One thing that comes to Russians' minds when they hear about Indonesia is Bali, despite many not knowing that Bali is located in Indonesia itself! This is not a mere accusation; it's based on our interviews with over 15 people. We asked a diverse group, including international students who are living in Russia, local students, students studying Indonesian studies, and even random people on the street. From this intriguing history to its treasures in tourism, they all mentioned that Indonesia is a great place to visit, with a rich cultural tapestry and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Impression
Indonesia has left a positive impression in the hearts and minds of people. They know that Indonesia has extraordinary and diverse natural treasures. Among them, there are several unique features that Depict Indonesia.
PART TWO
Exploring Curious Intersections: Insights
In delving into the curious intersections of Indonesia-Russia relations, it becomes apparent that economic collaboration forms a vital component of their multifaceted engagement. Both countries actively participate in trade and investment initiatives, contributing to a mutually beneficial economic landscape. Joint ventures and partnerships in sectors such as energy, technology, and defense showcase the depth of their cooperation, laying the groundwork for shared advancements and innovations.
Furthermore, the strategic collaboration extends to geopolitical arenas, where Indonesia and Russia often find common ground on international issues. As both nations navigate the complexities of global politics, their shared perspectives and diplomatic alignment amplify their collective influence. Whether addressing regional security concerns or collaborating within international forums, Indonesia and Russia continue to forge a dynamic partnership that reflects their historical ties and a shared commitment to fostering global stability and cooperation.
Furthermore, the strategic collaboration extends to geopolitical arenas, where Indonesia and Russia often find common ground on international issues. As both nations navigate the complexities of global politics, their shared perspectives and diplomatic alignment amplify their collective influence. Whether addressing regional security concerns or collaborating within international forums, Indonesia and Russia continue to forge a dynamic partnership that reflects their historical ties and a shared commitment to fostering global stability and cooperation.
We embarked on a set of interview to see through the viewpoints of two prominent academics from Lomonosov Moscow State University, Dr. Bakulin and Dr. Anikina, to discover a stunning variety of thoughts about Indonesia, enriched by their actual comments and genuine reflections.
Snapshots of Impressions
Think about Indonesia through Dr. Bakulin's eyes, where the word conjures up visions of vast seas, pleasant sun, and the allure of Asian temples and statues. He put it this way, "If I'm talking about all the sea, it's not so surprising, about the sun, about Asian temples, about Asian statues." Despite the fact that he has never visited Indonesia, his mental image of the country is filled with the warmth of friendly people. He expresses it as well by saying, "Because for me personally, the country is not just a territory, places of interest, but people, first of all."
Dr. Anikina, on the other hand, relates Indonesia to historical events, particularly the massive Krakatau Volcano explosion. She weaves in the appeal of Bali while addressing misconceptions and highlighting the impact of Indonesia's primarily Muslim population on cross-cultural communication. "The next thing related to this is religion, in my opinion. Indonesia is predominantly Muslim. It also produces some distinct features and characteristics of the country and region," she says.
Dr. Anikina, on the other hand, relates Indonesia to historical events, particularly the massive Krakatau Volcano explosion. She weaves in the appeal of Bali while addressing misconceptions and highlighting the impact of Indonesia's primarily Muslim population on cross-cultural communication. "The next thing related to this is religion, in my opinion. Indonesia is predominantly Muslim. It also produces some distinct features and characteristics of the country and region," she says.
Unveiling Traditions and Customs
Think about Indonesia through Dr. Bakulin's eyes, where the word conjures up visions of vast seas, pleasant sun, and the allure of Asian temples and statues. He put it this way, "If I'm talking about all the sea, it's not so surprising, about the sun, about Asian temples, about Asian statues." Despite the fact that he has never visited Indonesia, his mental image of the country is filled with the warmth of friendly people. He expresses it as well by saying, "Because for me personally, the country is not just a territory, places of interest, but people, first of all."
Dr. Anikina, on the other hand, relates Indonesia to historical events, particularly the massive Krakatau Volcano explosion. She weaves in the appeal of Bali while addressing misconceptions and highlighting the impact of Indonesia's primarily Muslim population on cross-cultural communication. "The next thing related to this is religion, in my opinion. Indonesia is predominantly Muslim. It also produces some distinct features and characteristics of the country and region," she says.
Dr. Anikina, on the other hand, relates Indonesia to historical events, particularly the massive Krakatau Volcano explosion. She weaves in the appeal of Bali while addressing misconceptions and highlighting the impact of Indonesia's primarily Muslim population on cross-cultural communication. "The next thing related to this is religion, in my opinion. Indonesia is predominantly Muslim. It also produces some distinct features and characteristics of the country and region," she says.
Geopolitical Marvels
Dr. Bakulin sees Indonesia as a rising star in the global geopolitical environment. He envisions Indonesia taking the lead, owing to its massive population and strong relationships with neighbors such as China and Japan. The government's emphasis on cutting-edge technology serves as a light for this possible ascension. As he put it, "... because as far as I know, the government is very interested in the development of high technologies in collaboration, in the sphere of high technology, and so on."
Dr. Anikina sees Indonesia as a cultural bridge that can help build understanding between different civilizations. Despite her lack of political knowledge, she views Indonesia as a potential mediator, utilizing its rich cultural legacy. In her words, "And then, geopolitically, I think Indonesia could be good for building bridges between different cultures. I may say not civilization probably, but culture."
Dr. Anikina sees Indonesia as a cultural bridge that can help build understanding between different civilizations. Despite her lack of political knowledge, she views Indonesia as a potential mediator, utilizing its rich cultural legacy. In her words, "And then, geopolitically, I think Indonesia could be good for building bridges between different cultures. I may say not civilization probably, but culture."
The Interview was with Dr. Oleg Bakulin
Receiving intelligent remarks, particularly from outstanding scholars, presents a diversified and captivating picture. They regard Indonesia as a location with gorgeous seas, Asian charm, and rich history, and they value its people's kindness. They also observe how the Muslim community impacts cross-cultural interactions by serving as a cultural bridge. In terms of traditions, Indonesia is regarded as possessing ancient cultural codes, arousing interest in its rich legacy. The necessity of understanding social systems and diversity in how people interact is emphasized. In terms of global position, Indonesia is regarded to be on the rise, thanks to its big population and emphasis on technology. These perspectives, taken together, provide a clear and comprehensive picture of Indonesia as a country with natural beauty, historical significance, and the potential to lead on the global stage.
Several top-notch professors were asked, and we found a varying line of topics to be discussed. Not only Bali, they also seem to know about the Krakatau incident. It only makes sense knowing how devastating the eruption was, they must have heard about it. “It was my historically-based memory,” Dr. Anikina said. As for Dr. Bakulin, he said, “That was a huge explosion. I remember reading it a long time ago.” This indicates that Krakatau incidents leave a mark and might come to their mind if they were asked about Indonesia.
Several top-notch professors were asked, and we found a varying line of topics to be discussed. Not only Bali, they also seem to know about the Krakatau incident. It only makes sense knowing how devastating the eruption was, they must have heard about it. “It was my historically-based memory,” Dr. Anikina said. As for Dr. Bakulin, he said, “That was a huge explosion. I remember reading it a long time ago.” This indicates that Krakatau incidents leave a mark and might come to their mind if they were asked about Indonesia.
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We hope that Russia and Indonesia can continue to collaborate in a variety of ways. Whether in the political, economic, or scholarly spheres, and mostly in the travel and tourist sector. May the bond between these two countries endure, creating a positive synergy in every area of their relationship.
Apart from the aforementioned article, we have produced a video addressing several aspects related to the broader topics discussed. Check the video below to see more of our other content!
While there's room to share more, we're hopeful for stronger ties between Indonesia and Russia in the future.
Meet The Team
- Dhion SetioResearch Lead
- Almiranda JaihanVisual Content Producer
- Attiatul NoorEditor
- Nisrina KhoirunnisaReporter
Special thanks to:
Natalia Trishchenko
Dr. Anikina
Dr. Bakoulin
All participants whose names we cannot mention one by one
