Indonesia, South Africa Enhance Cultural Ties Through Shared History

RRI.CO.ID, Bhopal - Indonesia and South Africa have agreed to strengthen bilateral cultural cooperation by preserving the legacy of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari and expanding people-to-people exchanges. The commitment was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Indonesian Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon and South African Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie on the sidelines of the 11th BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

Based on the release received by RRI Voice of Indonesia Sunday, August 9, 2026 in Jakarta Fadli Zon, said the relationship between Indonesia and South Africa was built not only through diplomatic ties but also through a shared history spanning centuries. He emphasized that culture can serve as an important bridge connecting the people of both countries.

“Indonesia highly values its close friendship with South Africa. We are two countries committed to justice and diversity, and we believe that culture can serve as a bridge connecting our two peoples,” Fadli Zon said.

One of the main issues discussed was the legacy of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari, who has become a symbol of the historical ties between Indonesia and South Africa. The 400th anniversary of his birth in 2026 is expected to provide an opportunity to expand cooperation in cultural heritage preservation, academic research, museums, education, and cultural exchanges.

“The 400th anniversary of Sheikh Yusuf’s birth is an important moment to strengthen cooperation between Indonesia and South Africa. We can develop it through joint commemorative programs, academic research, cultural heritage preservation, museum collaboration, and educational exchanges,” Fadli said.

Indonesia also expressed its appreciation for the Cape Malay community, whose historical roots are connected to the Indonesian archipelago. The two countries see opportunities to strengthen these cultural links through cultural exchanges, oral history documentation, intangible cultural heritage protection, youth programs, and academic cooperation.

Indonesia is also preparing to establish the Sheikh Yusuf Indonesian Cultural House in Cape Town as a center for cultural diplomacy, education, research, and artistic activities. Fadli said the initiative could become a lasting symbol of friendship between the two countries, while South Africa welcomed the proposal and expressed support for commemorating Sheikh Yusuf’s 400th anniversary.

The two countries also encouraged the renewal of their 2008 Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Cooperation to reflect current priorities, including cultural heritage, museums, archives, creative industries, film, cultural education, and exchanges of artists and young people. South African Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed his commitment to strengthening Indonesia–South Africa relations through exchanges involving the Cape Malay community, artists, and cultural practitioners, while both sides agreed to use their shared history as a foundation for more concrete cultural cooperation.