Titled "Assalamualaikum," the song not only represented Indonesia as a predominantly Muslim country but also served as a form of prayers to God.
With a background depicting mountain ranges and plants typical to Indonesia, the dance, inspired by Saman traditional dance, mesmerized tens of thousands of spectators.
Directed by Denny Malik, the dance was vibrant and had historical values, with the dancers clad in clothes with typical Indonesian motives. Accompanying the dance was a music composed by Ronald Steven.
The performance seemed to have mesmerized the spectators, who were not patient enough to wait for the opening ceremony of the Asian Games 2018.
"Indonesia..Indonesia..Indonesia" the spectators who packed the stadium shouted.
They gave applause as President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) arrived with many of them shouting Jokowi...Jokowi...Jokowi.
Loud music full of energy was played as athletes from 44 Asian countries began entering the stadium.
As the Korean contingent, a combination of South and North Koreas, entered the stadium, the spectators gave applause.
The opening ceremony of the Asian Games 2018 is a historical momentum for the Korean nation. The South and North Korean contingent paraded in one group, carrying the United Korea flag.
Reporting by Monalisa
Editing by Suharto
Reporter: Suharto
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2018
