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culture

exemplified what it means to be Indonesian:
warm, friendly, full of contagious smiles, and
most importantly, a deep love for singing,
dancing, and celebrating life with great joy.

A standout feature of the celebration was the
performance by T-Koos, an Indonesian band
that fully embraced the 70s theme. The band
members dressed like The Beatles, complete
with vintage hairstyles and outfits, perfectly
emulating the iconic look of a 70s band. As a
band consisting of young brothers, performing
in Switzerland was a great honor for them—not
just in front of the Indonesian community,
but also for the local Geneva audience at the
Pickwick Club. This opportunity was made
possible through the support of an Indonesian
company, Bank Sinarmas, which is committed
to advancing the careers of Indonesian artists.

“The joy and camaraderie among the Indonesian
community this year are truly palpable as we
celebrate our Independence Day, especially
while reminiscing with songs from the 70s and
90s,” said Ambassador Febrian A. Ruddyard,
Permanent Representative of the Republic of
Indonesia to the UN in Geneva

No Indonesian Independence Day celebration
would be complete without the traditional 17
August games, which added to the excitement
of the day. The event featured fun-filled
competitions like tug-of-war, sack races, marble-
and-spoon races, and the classic pencil-in-a-
bottle game. While these activities might seem
amusing to foreign guests, they are a cherished
sight for almost all Indonesians, evoking
memories of similar celebrations back home.
On a special Saturday, August 24th, the lush
garden of the Indonesian Ambassador’s residence The Indonesian Festival also served as a showcase
in Vesenaz, Geneva, was transformed into a of Indonesian culture, traditions, and even the
vibrant scene straight out of the 70s. Themed progress of homegrown industries. The bazaar
“Back to the 70s,” the event was filled with of Indonesian food and products, supported by
decorations and music from that era, creating the Indonesian diaspora and small and medium
an unforgettable occasion. The celebration was enterprises (SMEs) from various cities across
dominated by the colors red and white, reflecting Switzerland, provided attendees with a nostalgic
the Indonesian flag, with hundreds of guests taste of home.
dressed in 70s-inspired outfits, adding to the
festive atmosphere and making the event even Many private Indonesian companies contributed
more vibrant. to the event, using it as an opportunity to display
and promote products of global quality. For
This annual celebration saw hundreds of example, Polygon Indonesia showcased their
Indonesian diasporas from all over Switzerland efforts to break into international markets
come together with their families. They with their bicycles, while Saviosa introduced

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