RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The long historical relationship between Indonesia and Yemen is considered to have not been fully utilized in the form of structured cultural cooperation. This issue emerged during a meeting between Minister Fadli Zon and the Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen to Indonesia, Salem Ahmed Abdulrahman Balfakeeh, at the Indonesian Ministry of Culture Office in Jakarta.

During the meeting, Minister Fadli highlighted the lack of a specific cooperation agreement in the cultural sector between Indonesia and Yemen, despite relations between the two nations dating back to the 7th century. He expressed belief that this situation actually opens up a significant opportunity to build a foundation for more systematic and sustainable cultural collaboration.

"Cultural cooperation can focus on efforts to find common cultural roots and develop areas of similarity, such as henna art, carving, pottery, bamboo and rattan weaving, the use of date palms, and calligraphy," he said, as quoted by the ministry's official website on Friday, February 20, 2026.

These similarities are considered a potential entry point for concrete and mutually beneficial cultural diplomacy. In addition to the exchange of arts and traditions, he also opened up the opportunity to develop joint programs, including submitting an intangible cultural heritage application to UNESCO. Collaboration in this international recognition scheme is considered strategic for strengthening the position of both countries in the global cultural arena.

From Yemen, Ambassador Balfakeeh emphasized that the relationship between the two countries is not merely diplomatic, but also historical and sociological. The migration of Yemenis to the archipelago centuries ago, as well as their role in the spread of Islam and the formation of social order, forms a strong foundation for bilateral relations.

"This relationship has existed for hundreds of years. Our ancestors came to the archipelago not only bringing religion, but also playing a major role in building civilization and social order. This motivates us to continue strengthening relations between our two countries," he said.

He also highlighted the presence of approximately 7,000 Indonesian students currently studying in Yemen as a crucial bridge for people-to-people contact. He expressed belief that this young generation has the potential to strengthen relations between the two countries in the future.

Beyond cultural matters, Balfakeeh also encouraged the reactivation of the Indonesia-Yemen joint committee and the strengthening of cooperation agreements in trade, economics, and investment. Thus, cultural diplomacy is expected to go hand in hand with strengthening strategic cooperation in other sectors. ***