Former Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko, in a statement issued in Jakarta on Thursday, linked the philosophy of cherry blossoms to the meaning of bilateral relations.
“Cherry blossoms not only symbolize transient beauty and change, but also represent togetherness, encounters, and hope for the future,” he said in an official statement released by Sakuranesia.
A collaboration between Sakuranesia and Jember Fashion Carnival (JFC) took place during the festival on March 27–28 at Shibuya Sakura Stage, featuring artistic performances and inclusive cultural experiences.
At the opening ceremony organized by Shibuya Kyoeikai, Sakuranesia joined the Japan University of Economics (JUE) group alongside the JFC delegation, marking cooperation between the two countries’ education and creative industry sectors.
On the occasion, Moeldoko also highlighted the cultural roots of East Java, now showcased on the international stage through Jember Fashion Carnival.
Beyond the state level, he emphasized the role of individuals as key actors in cultural diplomacy.
One of the main highlights was the direct involvement of Japanese and Indonesian students in performances.
Students from Nihon Keizai University, members of the Indonesian Student Association in Japan, and the Sakuranesia community appeared in colorful JFC costumes that blended the cultural identities of both nations.
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Chairman of the Indonesian Student Association (PPI) in Japan Muhammad Rezal Pabuarany described the participation as a valuable experience.
“During my limited time in Japan, being able to serve as a bridge of friendship connecting Indonesia and Japan like this is a deeply meaningful cultural experience,” he said.
Japanese model Miu Kudo, who also took part, said she was impressed by the cross-cultural interaction, noting that the warmth of Indonesian people left a strong first impression and motivated her to visit Indonesia in the future.
On the main stage, renowned Indonesian makeup artist and JFC ambassador Bubah Alfian, together with Sakuranesia cultural ambassador Ayaka Yasumoto, presented a performance symbolizing cultural exchange through the arts.
As part of the program, Sakuranesia founder Tovic Rustam, accompanied by chairman Sakura Ijuin, showcased an introductory cultural video aimed at bridging ties between the two countries.
The collaboration was further supported by Tsuzuki Educational Group as part of efforts to build future connectivity through education and culture.
On the same occasion, President of the Japan University of Economics under the Tsuzuki Educational Group, Asuka Tsuzuki, said that educational and cultural cooperation with Sakuranesia should go beyond exchanges.
“It is also expected to develop into a strategic partnership that contributes to the progress of both countries in the future,” said Asuka, whose group also sponsored the “Shibuya Sakura Matsuri.”
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Translator: Fathur, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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