The 60th anniversary of the Russian House in Indonesia was commemorated in Jakarta with a distinguished celebration highlighting six decades of cultural, educational, and people-to-people diplomacy between Indonesia and the Russian Federation. The milestone event brought together diplomats, public figures, academicians, cultural practitioners, and media professionals who have played an active role in fostering mutual understanding between the two nations.
Established in 1965 as the Russian Center for Science and Culture, the Russian House emerged during a pivotal era in global and regional diplomacy, when Indonesia opened new channels of communication with the Soviet Union. Over the decades, the institution has evolved while remaining steadfast in its mission—building bridges of friendship through culture, science, education, and youth exchange. From academic scholarships and language programs to exhibitions and concerts, the Russian House has consistently served as a platform for meaningful bilateral engagement.
A key highlight of the anniversary celebration was the presentation of Certificates of Honour to individuals and organizations recognized for their outstanding collaboration and support. Among the recipients were Good News from Indonesia (GNFI) and Good News from Southeast Asia (Seasia), both acknowledged for their role in promoting constructive narratives and strengthening people-to-people ties between Russia and Indonesia through positive, cross-border journalism.
In his official remarks, Nikita Shilikov, Director of the Russian House in Indonesia, emphasized the enduring spirit of partnership that has defined the institution’s six-decade journey. “Semoga api persahabatan kita akan terus bersinar terang,” he stated, expressing hope that the flame of friendship between the two countries will continue to shine brightly in the years ahead.
The anniversary event was held in conjunction with “Russian Spiritual Culture Days,” part of the international “Russian Seasons” initiative. According to the official agenda, the program began with a photo exhibition titled Russian Cultural Heritage, curated by the Russian Geographical Society, offering visitors a visual journey through the country’s vast cultural and geographic diversity.
The celebration reached its artistic peak with an evening concert featuring winners of the prestigious International Pyotr Tchaikovsky Competition. World-class Russian musicians—pianist Sergey Davydchenko, violist Daniil Kogan, and tenor Igor Morozov—delivered powerful and emotionally rich performances that captivated the audience. Their presence underscored the universal language of music as a cornerstone of cultural diplomacy and mutual appreciation.
The Certificates of Honour, dated 7 December 2025 and signed by the Director of the Russian House in Indonesia, symbolized institutional gratitude for long-standing cooperation. Beyond formal recognition, the awards reflected the growing importance of media, education, and cultural exchange in sustaining international friendship.
As the Russian House enters its seventh decade in Indonesia, the anniversary celebration stood as both a tribute to its historical legacy and a reaffirmation of its forward-looking mission. Rooted in shared values and creative collaboration, the institution continues to demonstrate how culture and knowledge can serve as enduring foundations for international partnership.
