Jakarta, (Antara) - Indonesia has showcased several traditional arts and cultural performances at the Byron Bay Harmony Day Festival in Byron Bay, Australia, noted a statement from the Indonesian Consulate General in Sydney received by Antara here, Monday.

The Indonesian arts and cultural night was a collaboration between the Consulate General in Sydney and the administration of Byron Shire and was supported by the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra and the Yogyakarta provincial administration.

Indonesian Consul General in Sydney Yayan G.H. Mulyana stated that as neighboring countries with several cultures, Indonesia and Australia continue to promote a harmonious life in a diverse society.

"Harmony in life is very important for both nations. Hence, Indonesia specifically presents three arts and cultural groups for the people of Australia in Byron Bay," the Consul General noted.

Indonesian arts and cultural groups that performed at the Byron Bay Festival were Suara Indonesia from Sydney featuring traditional Acehnese dances and the Angklung music group of Adelindo from Adelaide playing traditional Indonesian songs and the international song "Waltzing Matilda."

In addition, an arts and cultural group from Yogyakarta Province performed traditional dances by Garin Nugroho.

"I believe the performances of the three cultural groups emphasize the depth of the meaning of harmony. In the midst of the destruction caused by Hurricane Debbie, I hope the arts and cultural show would be able to deepen our devotion to Indonesia's arts and cultures and also to the country," the Consul General emphasized.

Initially, the performances were scheduled to be held in an open space, but they were canceled due to Hurricane Debbie that crossed the Byron area.

"Although Hurricane Debbie has caused flooding in several areas, we still want to watch Indonesia's arts and cultures. We do not want to miss this extraordinary event," Steve, a young Australian, said in connection with the Indonesian arts and cultural performances in the Byron Bay High School.

A day earlier, Hurricane Debbie had crossed Byron and its surrounding areas, paralyzing all activities, including schools and local government offices.

"This is an incredible night. Indonesia's arts and cultural performances have set new high standards for the Harmony Day Festival. We are highly honored. Personally, this event has cured my homesickness about Indonesia and has deepened my love for the country," Judy Shelley, a festival coordinator, remarked.(*)

Pewarta: Libertina Widyamurti Ambari

Editor : Chandra Hamdani Noer


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