Hundreds of residents reveled in the splendor of Indonesian traditions and cultural heritage during captivating three-day events in Abu Dhabi. The Muhibah Angklung, a 36-member ensemble from West Java, showcased a series of performances at the Cultural Foundation and Mushrif Mall, organized by the Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. The versatile performers enthralled the audience with their musical and dance displays, particularly those involving the Angklung—a distinctive bamboo instrument recognized by UNESCO as a masterwork of oral and intangible heritage of humanity. Each Angklung generates a single note or chord, requiring a collaborative effort, such as the one in Abu Dhabi, to create melodies.
Mariam, of mixed Singaporean and Greek heritage, and her daughter Sofia, were captivated by the performers. "I encountered Angklung during my childhood in Singapore, but never have I seen a performance of this caliber. It's breathtaking," Mariam remarked, highlighting its educational value for families and children. "My daughter has always been curious about different cultures. This event was an ideal platform to introduce them to families and children. It was a welcoming environment. Sofia gained a lot of knowledge about Indonesian culture. It was both educational and a great performance overall," Mariam emphasized. "I adored it. I enjoyed all the songs," Sofia added, appreciating the variety of traditional Indonesian songs and dances, as well as popular international tunes performed by the artists at the Cultural Foundation, organized by the embassy in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.
Meanwhile, the mall event featured a flash mob performing songs like 'Rahmatan Lil Alamin', 'New York', 'Nothing Else Matters', 'Libiamo', and 'Mamma Mia'. "This is my first experience attending an Indonesian event. I thoroughly enjoyed the show," said Bushra, a Moroccan resident. The performances not only included popular hits but also traditional dances from various Indonesian regions, such as Badindin (Minang), Janger (Bali), Jali-Jali (Betawi), Yamko Rambe Yamko (Papua), and Batak dances. The Adya Dipta dance team from Abu Dhabi also performed two traditional Indonesian dances. "They did an excellent job. I'm delighted to learn about Indonesian traditions and culture," remarked Gaucho, a Brazilian expat. Husin Bagis, Indonesian Ambassador to the UAE, noted that the three-day event signified a deepening relationship following the recent state visit by Indonesian President Joko Widodo. "We are seeing the benefits of the strengthening friendship between our countries through this cultural exhibition. This performance represents our joint dedication to fostering harmony and brotherhood among nations," Bagis stated, emphasizing the importance of Angklung, which holds a special place in Indonesian traditions and culture. "We honor this bamboo musical instrument not just as a cultural emblem but also as a conduit that promotes deeper understanding and relationships between nations, including Indonesia and the UAE, and beyond," Bagis concluded.
