Fadli Zon: Shared History and Culture Strengthen Indonesia-Malaysia Ties

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon, highlighted shared historical and cultural ties as important foundations for strengthening relations between Indonesia and Malaysia. He made the remarks during the Welcoming Dinner of the Madani Intellectual Council Malaysia-Indonesia (Madani Malindo) 2 at the Museum of National Awakening in Jakarta on Thursday August 20, 2026.

He said Indonesia’s diversity should not be viewed as a threat or a source of division, but rather as a strength that brings people together. He pointed to shared history, culture, and religion, as well as the values of Pancasila, as important elements that have helped shape Indonesia’s national identity.

“Indonesia, with all its diversity, differences do not become a threat, but instead become a binding power,” Fadli said. He added that seeking common ground rather than differences has been an important principle in Indonesia’s historical development.

According to the Minister, the Museum of National Awakening was a fitting venue for the gathering because of its historical connection to the emergence of national consciousness in Indonesia. The building, formerly known as the School of Medicine, was a center of intellectual awakening that contributed to the development of the nationalist movement in the early 20th century.

Fadli also highlighted the historical roots of Indonesia’s national movement, including the emergence of Budi Utomo in 1908 and the Youth Pledge in 1928. He said these developments reflected the growing awareness among Indonesians of the importance of organization, unity, and shared identity despite differences in ethnicity, religion, and regional backgrounds.

The Minister further affirmed that Indonesia and Malaysia share many cultural connections, both from the past and the present. He said these points of convergence provide opportunities for the two countries to strengthen cooperation, particularly in advancing culture and civilization.

Fadli explained that Indonesia’s commitment to advancing culture is also mandated by the country’s Constitution, which guarantees the development of national culture while allowing communities to preserve and develop their respective cultural values. He said Indonesian culture encompasses a wide range of elements, including languages, oral traditions, manuscripts, rituals, traditional knowledge, local wisdom, folk games, local cuisine, and various forms of art.

He expressed hope that the Madani Malindo 2 dialogue would produce concrete outcomes in promoting culture and civilization while further strengthening the bonds between Indonesia and Malaysia. “I hope it will produce many achievements, particularly in advancing culture and civilization, and especially in strengthening the ties between the two countries,” Fadli said.