RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Sudan is opening broad opportunities for cooperation with Indonesia in business, culture, and education, aiming to strengthen bilateral economic and social ties while supporting Sudan’s national stability, Sudanese Ambassador to Indonesia, Yassir Mohammed Ali, revealed on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Speaking at a media gathering in Jakarta, Ambassador Yassir highlighted the long-standing historical ties between Indonesia and Sudan, notably the role of Sudanese scholar Syekh Ahmad Surkati, who came to Indonesia in 1912, established the Al Irsyad educational and religious organization, and contributed to the anti-colonial movement against Dutch rule. 

President Sukarno personally attended Surkati’s funeral in 1943, showing national respect.

In education, Sudan is encouraging student exchanges, scholarships, and research collaborations, while cultural cooperation may include arts exchanges and heritage promotion. 

Currently, the number of Sudanese students in Indonesia is still limited, while approximately 838 Indonesian students study in Sudan, according to the Indonesian Students Association in Sudan (PPI Sudan).

On the business front, investment and trade opportunities are expanding in energy, agriculture, and general trade. Bilateral trade remains modest, valued at less than USD 50 million (IDR 839.4 billion). Indonesia exports clothing, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and palm oil, while Sudan exports peanuts, sesame, and cotton.

“The trade volume is still small, so the potential for growth is significant. Sudan invites Indonesian investors and is ready to facilitate land, permits, and security requirements,” Ambassador Yassir said, as quoted by Antara. ***