Kuwait's Ambassador to Indonesia Highlights the Role of Culture in Reinforcing Values of Moderation and Tolerance
From Abdullah Baqous, Kuala Lumpur, Sept 9 (KUNA) – Kuwait’s Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia, Khaled Al-Yassin, highlighted on Wednesday the role of cultural programs in spreading and consolidating the values of moderation and tolerance that underpin Kuwait’s vision and promoting them among peoples, during his participation in the opening of the 2026 Middle East Festival organized by the University of Indonesia.
In a special statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Ambassador Al-Yassin said that the embassy’s participation in this cultural festival underscores Kuwait’s prominent role in the Arab cultural landscape, through its encouragement of arts, sciences, culture, and scientific research, as well as its support for publishing, printing, and the issuance of books and periodic literary, cultural, and scientific publications.
He added that the embassy participated in the festival by showcasing a collection of books highlighting Kuwait’s civilizational renaissance, alongside Kuwaiti cultural publications and traditional heritage products, as well as presenting several traditional Kuwaiti dishes.
In his speech at the festival, Ambassador Al-Yassin reaffirmed Kuwait’s firm belief in the importance of cultural exchange and public diplomacy, noting that participation in the Middle East Festival highlights Kuwait’s approach to enhancing intercivilizational dialogue and people-to-people ties.
For his part, Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Nasiruddin Umar, in a similar address, called on students to strengthen and deepen relations between Indonesia and Middle Eastern countries across various fields, including education, culture, trade, and knowledge exchange.
Umar praised the Arabic Studies program at the University of Indonesia for its role in introducing Middle Eastern culture, stating, “This type of cooperation must continue to keep culture and humanity alive.”
This year’s Middle East Festival, organized under the theme “Light and Pride,” aims to strengthen cultural and educational ties between Indonesia and Middle Eastern countries. It brings together cultural, academic, and youth activities, with participation from representatives of several Arab embassies in Jakarta, university professors, public figures, and a large number of students.
The festival opened with the playing of the national anthems of Indonesia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Egypt, in the presence of representatives of participating countries, leaders of the University of Indonesia, organizers, and students. (End) A.B./A.M.S.
