Indonesians in Beirut Celebrate 81st Independence Day with Garuda Contingent

RRI.CO.ID, Beirut - The commemoration of Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day at the Embassy in Beirut was held with solemn dignity, featuring personnel of the Garuda Contingent--Indonesia’s military peacekeeping force serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)--as ceremonial officers.

The event, which took place on Monday, August 17, was attended by the entire Indonesian community in Lebanon. Indonesian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Lebanon, Dicky Komar, presided over the ceremony. On this occasion, the Ambassador also awarded the Cultural Envoy Medal to members of the Garuda Contingent.

The medal was presented as recognition not only for their peacekeeping duties, but also for their role in promoting Indonesia and fostering ties with the Lebanese people through various social and cultural activities.

“Through the series of events marking the 81st Independence Day, the Embassy in Beirut continues to nurture a spirit of nationalism, solidarity, and togetherness--especially among Indonesians in Lebanon,” Ambassador Dicky said in a written statement received by RRI on Tuesday, August 18.

“At the same time, we appreciate the dedication of the Garuda Contingent, whose service has brought honor to Indonesia through their contributions to peace in Lebanon,” he added.

Following the ceremony, the solemn atmosphere gave way to lively celebrations with Fun Games, featuring traditional Independence Day competitions such as marble races, musical chairs, cracker-eating contests, and caping-hook challenges. Enthusiastic participants joined in wholeheartedly.

The sense of camaraderie was further strengthened with bowls of chicken noodle soup and meatballs served as breakfast. The festivities continued with a Panggung Gembira (Joyful Stage) event, attended by the Philippine Ambassador and Malaysia’s Chargé d’Affaires in Lebanon.

The celebration concluded with a flashmob involving the entire Indonesian community, symbolizing unity and solidarity among Indonesians from diverse backgrounds in Lebanon. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)