Indonesian and Pacific artists join cultural exchange in Yogyakarta
The programme involves 20 artists from eight Pacific countries and 70 from eastern Indonesia, with activities continuing until October 17.
Artists from eastern Indonesia and eight Pacific countries are taking part in a Yogyakarta cultural exchange that opened on October 5. Indonesia-Pacific Cultural Connect (IPCC) 2026 brings together 70 Indonesian participants and 20 Pacific artists for a programme running until October 17.
Activities began with an arts residency. Ahead of the closing performances, participants are exchanging cultural practices through traditional music, Javanese performing arts and craftwork using bamboo and coconut.
At the programme’s showcase in Yogyakarta, Culture Minister Fadli Zon said artistic collaboration and exchanges of knowledge could strengthen community ties. He argued that sustained cultural partnerships required friendship, trust and regular contact, not government agreements alone.
Fiji’s Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, Charan Jeath Singh, suggested exploring a bilateral memorandum of understanding with Indonesia. The proposed framework would encompass heritage protection, education, exchanges for artists, joint exhibitions and collaborative productions.
Indonesia’s Culture Ministry jointly organises IPCC with the Works of Wonder Indonesia Foundation. The Endowment Fund for Education Agency (LPDP) provides support.
