Page 14 - Inzist Special Edition

BUILDING

BRIDGES

As an art, diplomacy is quite a masterpiece. It has the uncanny ability to shape and mold one’s comprehension of a certain discourse
eloquently. It deepens understanding whilst also recognizing that room for further advancement is always present.

We can all agree individuals may interpret the meaning of diplomacy in their own distinctive articulations. As for me, at its essence,
diplomacy is all about synchronization of frequencies. On the same frequencies, conversations are made and understandings are
enhanced where avenues for block building are created and mutual trust is attained.

Ultimately, it builds bridges. It narrows gaps.

I take comfort in knowing that solid foundations of these bridges have been laid down. The previously existing, or assumptively
existing, gaps in understanding have been filled and will continue in the same manner fittingly reflects the admirable spirit of family-
ness and brotherhood of which Aotearoa New Zealand and the Pacific region are well-known for.

Friendships are key. I am glad for the friendships I have made over the years in Wellington have helped this to materialize. The candid
and constructive exchanges of ideas have solidified common pursuits for shared goals.

As a musician and culture-loving person, it is particularly pleasing to know how arts and culture has had a profound impact in this
process. Music has been an instrumental foundation in building these bridges as it speaks universal language in which we discovered
commonalities. Whilst through my paintings, these commonalities are portrayed on canvas. These are amongst some of the
manifestations of the bridges that have been built down the years for which I hope merited further common understanding.

These processes will remain in motion. Our engagement in the region will continue to be elevated for the betterment of our Pacific
region. The existing bridges are to facilitate sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships between Indonesia and fellow Pacific
countries.

Indonesia and the Pacific are, as the title of my collaborative album released in Wellington in 2020, Friends for Good. After all,
diplomacy is about building everlasting friendships.

The Diplomatic Corps of Wellington
With The Governor General and Sir David Gascoigne