RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, held talks with Yemen’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Salem Ahmed Abdulrahman Balfakeeh, in Jakarta, Thursday, 19 February 2026 to advance bilateral cooperation through cultural diplomacy and artistic exchanges. The meeting underscored both countries’ commitment to leveraging shared history and culture to reinforce long-standing ties.

Minister Fadli said Indonesia and Yemen have maintained relations since the 7th century, forming a deep historical foundation for contemporary engagement. He noted that educational exchanges remain a vital bridge connecting the two nations.

“Relations between Indonesia and Yemen have existed for centuries, even since the 7th century,” Fadli said. “To this day, many Indonesian students study in Yemen, serving as an important link in our bilateral relationship.”

He acknowledged that no specific bilateral agreement in the cultural sector has yet been established. However, he stressed that this gap presents an opportunity to develop a more structured and sustainable framework for cooperation.

According to him, collaboration could focus on shared cultural roots and traditional arts that reflect similarities between the two societies. He highlighted henna art, wood carving, pottery, bamboo and rattan weaving, the use of date palms, and calligraphy as potential areas of joint development.

He added that these initiatives could be packaged into joint programs with international visibility. Some elements, he suggested, could potentially be nominated as Intangible Cultural Heritage to UNESCO, enhancing global recognition for both countries.

Ambassador Salem Ahmed Abdulrahman Balfakeeh, emphasized that Indonesia–Yemen relations are deeply rooted in historical migration and the role of Yemeni communities in spreading Islam in the archipelago. He said these historical bonds continue to inspire stronger contemporary cooperation.

“Centuries ago, our ancestors came to the archipelago not only bringing religion but also contributing to civilization and social order,” Salem said. He added that around 7,000 Indonesian students are currently studying in Yemen and described them as an essential pillar of people-to-people relations, while also calling for the reactivation of joint committees and expanded cooperation in trade, economy, and investment.