Weapons of Independence Exhibition Revives History of Indonesia-Russia Relation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The “Weapons of Independence” exhibition was held at the Satria Mandala Museum in Jakarta, Thursday, August 20, 2026, highlighting the long history of relations between Indonesia and Russia. The exhibition also invites the public to revisit the role of technical and military cooperation between the two countries in strengthening Indonesia’s defense capabilities in the past.

In a speech delivered at the opening ceremony, Head of the Indonesian Military History Center (Pusjarah TNI), Brigadier General TNI Stefi Yantje Nuhujanan, said Indonesia and Russia have a long history of relations. He said the exhibition provides an opportunity to better understand that history through archives, historical documentation, photographs, and visual technology.

“The relations between Indonesia and Russia have a long history. One important part of this history is the technical and military cooperation between Indonesia and Russia, which contributed to strengthening Indonesia’s defense capabilities in the past,” he said.

Stefi said the exhibition not only presents historical artifacts, but also encourages visitors to understand the context and values underlying the relationship between the two countries. He said the theme, “History Comes Alive Again,” is relevant because history can serve as a source of learning and inspiration for present and future generations.

The exhibition also features documentation of several important moments in Indonesia-Soviet relations, including the relationship between President Sukarno and the Soviet Prime Minister, as well as President Sukarno’s visit to Czechoslovakia in 1956. The historical documentation provides an overview of the close relations and interactions between the two countries during an important period in history.

According to him, the uniqueness of the exhibition lies in its combination of historical archives with modern visual and multimedia technology. The use of technology, artificial intelligence, and visual approaches is expected to make history easier to understand and more accessible to the public, particularly younger generations.

He expressed hope that the exhibition would not only serve as a cultural event, but also provide a space to strengthen public understanding of the history of Indonesia-Russia relations. “This activity can open up opportunities for broader cooperation in the fields of culture, education, humanitarian affairs, and various other areas,” he said.

Stefi also encouraged students, young people, academics, and the public to take advantage of the exhibition to learn about the history of the two countries through the documents and materials on display. He hopes the “Weapons of Independence” exhibition will increase public interest in the history of Indonesia-Russia relations, foster the strategic partnership of both countries, and serve as a bridge connecting the past with the future.