Indonesian Ambassador Presents Credentials to Japanese Emperor

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Ambassador to Japan, Nurmala Kartini Pandjaitan Sjahrir, formally presented her Letter of Credence to Japanese Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

The ceremony, hosted by the Imperial Household on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, marked the official start of her diplomatic mission following her arrival in Japan on February 12, 2026.

Japan’s Minister of Digital Transformation, Hisashi Matsumoto, accompanied Emperor Naruhito throughout the state ceremony, while officials from the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo joined the ambassador.

Emperor Naruhito expressed concern over the recent earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara Province and conveyed his respects to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. “The emperor also recalled meeting President Prabowo in Tokyo last March and asked me to extend his regards,” Ambassador Kartini said on Tuesday, August 18.

The emperor further appreciated the warm welcome he and Empress Masako received during their 2023 visit to Indonesia, and voiced hope that bilateral relations will continue to flourish.

Indonesia, for its part, is committed to strengthening strategic cooperation with Japan across future development sectors, recognizing Japan’s success in blending traditional values with modern technological progress.

Safeguarding and serving the Indonesian community in Japan--now numbering more than 260,000--is a central focus of the ambassador’s mission. She emphasized the importance of adapting to local culture while preserving Indonesia’s own heritage.

“I hope we can all work professionally, adjusting to local customs without losing the essence of our own culture,” Kartini said.

Known for their warmth and adaptability, Indonesians abroad are seen as a vital force in fostering closer ties between the peoples of both nations.

The historic presentation at the Imperial Palace began with a formal escort from Tokyo Station by the Imperial Household protocol team, taking place just one day after Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day celebrations. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)