RRI.CO.ID, Tokyo – Indonesian Ambassador to Japan and the Federated States of Micronesia, Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir, called on Indonesians living in Japan to strengthen solidarity while promoting Indonesian culture through various diaspora community activities. Ambassador Kartini made the statement while attending the Indonesian Cultural Festival “Rang Minang Baralek Gadang."

It is organized by the Minangkabau Family Association (IKM) Japan with support from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Tokyo in Tokyo on Sunday.

“The Rang Minang Baralek Gadang event carries significant meaning, not only as a gathering for Indonesians but also as an effort to introduce the richness of Indonesian culture to the Japanese public,” Kartini said in an official statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

According to her, the Minangkabau people possess many life philosophies that remain relevant for Indonesians living abroad, including the importance of respecting local customs, culture, and community values. She said these values are important for Indonesians in Japan to live harmoniously, respect local norms and culture, and contribute positively to Japanese society.

She added that Indonesian community organizations abroad should serve as platforms to strengthen unity and togetherness among Indonesians, while also becoming collaborative spaces to foster creativity and other positive activities.

“The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo is certainly ready to support various positive initiatives to strengthen unity among Indonesians, introduce Indonesian culture, and enhance the friendship between Indonesia and Japan,” she said.

Meanwhile, Chairman of IKM Japan, Hari Koto, said the event serves as a strategic instrument to introduce the culture and potential of West Sumatra to the international community, particularly in Japan.

He explained that the festival aims to promote and preserve Minangkabau cultural heritage through traditional performances such as Randai, Tari Pasambahan, and Minangkabau traditional wedding ceremonies.

In addition, the event also serves as a means to strengthen solidarity among the Indonesian diaspora in Japan while supporting the development of the creative economy and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the presentation of Indonesian culinary specialties.

The “Rang Minang Baralek Gadang” festival featured a variety of cultural activities, including Minangkabau traditional ceremonies, Randai and Tari Pasambahan performances, as well as the Baralek Gadang traditional wedding procession complete with the galombang dance parade and authentic Minangkabau culinary tourism.