Indonesian Cultural House in Germany Invites the World to Know Indonesia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Tourism Minister, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, has framed cultural diplomacy as the primary gateway to Indonesia’s travel appeal. She shared this vision during a high-profile visit to the Indonesian Cultural House (RBI) in Berlin, Germany.

During her official working visit on Tuesday, March 4, 2026, the Minister emphasized that authentic experiences rooted in tradition are the cornerstone of the nation's global tourism strategy.

Speaking later in Jakarta on Friday, March 6, 2026, she highlighted how cultural hubs like the RBI allow the world to connect with Indonesia on a much deeper level.

"Culture is the main entrance in building Indonesia's tourism appeal. Through the Indonesian Cultural House, we invite the world to know Indonesia more deeply, where Indonesian tourism offers authentic experiences rooted in culture, tradition, and community interaction," said Minister Widiyanti, as quoted by Antara.

Accompanied by the Deputy Chief of Mission for the Indonesian Embassy in Germany, Fajar Wirawan Harijo, the Minister toured various facilities including language classrooms, a library, and an angklung room. She also witnessed firsthand the enthusiasm of international visitors practicing Balinese and Javanese gamelan.

The visit featured personal interactions with local Germans and cultural course participants. These included the twin content creators Bennet and Gerret, known to their followers as @raksasajerman.

The Minister noted that these interactions are central to the "Wonderful Indonesia" branding and the #GoBeyondOrdinary campaign. She explained that through cultural diplomacy, Indonesia provides tourism experiences that exceed expectations by showcasing not only natural beauty but also the depth of local wisdom and creativity.

Supporting this vision, the Education and Cultural Attaché at the Indonesian Embassy in Berlin, Roniyus Marjunus, described the RBI as a strategic showcase for Indonesia's image. He remarked that the center serves as an effective tool to strengthen Indonesia's position as a top-tier destination, encouraging German citizens to visit the archipelago in a more sustainable manner.

As an inclusive public space, the RBI has been dedicated to promoting Indonesian arts and traditions since its original launch in 2012, later relocating to the Tiergarten district in 2017.

The facility continues to function as a vital instrument for people-to-people contact, bridging the gap between the Indonesian diaspora and the German public. The Minister’s diplomatic itinerary also extended to the culinary arts with a visit to "Dapoer," an authentic Indonesian restaurant owned by diaspora member Emma Tjandradinata.

By engaging with both cultural institutions and local businesses, the Ministry aims to solidify a holistic image of Indonesia as a cultural powerhouse in the heart of Europe. ***