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From culture to empowerment: Indonesia’s vision for Sri Lanka

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6 months ago

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Ambassador draped in a vibrant Sri Lankan batik skirt

In a world where diplomacy often moves quietly behind closed doors, ambassadors serve as the living bridge between nations, culture and peoples.

The Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dewi Gustina Tobing carries this responsibility with a vision that goes behind protocol seeking to deepen ties, foster mutual understanding and showcase the richness of Indonesian heritage to a Sri Lankan audience. From trade and tourism to cultural exchange and the role of woman in society, the Ambassador embodies the naunced, multifaceted relationship between two nations with shared histories and aspirations, In this exclusive interview, we explore perspectives that span politics, culture and social development and gain a glimpse into the mindset of a diplomat whose mission is about connection as it is about representation.

(Q) How would you describe the current state of relations between Indonesia and Sri Lanka and what excites you most about its future?

(A) Indonesia and Sri Lanka today enjoy warm, stable, and cooperative relations, rooted in shared history, non-aligned foreign policy traditions, and a common identity as Indian Ocean nations. Politically, the relationship is cordial and pragmatic, with regular diplomatic engagement and mutual support in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and historically within the Colombo Plan framework. Neither country sees the other as a strategic rival; instead, they approach the relationship with goodwill and respect for sovereignty.

Economically, ties are positive but still under-realized. Trade has been growing gradually, particularly in areas such as textiles, rubber, coconut oil, spices, and pharmaceuticals. There is also cooperation in maritime affairs, fisheries, disaster management, and education, reflecting shared development priorities as archipelagic and coastal states. Through the Colombo Plan, both countries have benefited from and contributed to technical cooperation, capacity building, and human resource development, strengthening institutional and educational linkages across South and Southeast Asia.

Culturally, the relationship is enriched by deep historical links—from ancient Buddhist connections and Indian Ocean trade routes to modern people-to-people exchanges. Educational scholarships and professional training programmes under the Colombo Plan further reinforce these soft-power ties, giving the relationship a natural resilience beyond day-to-day politics.

What excites me most about the future of Indonesia–Sri Lanka relations is the untapped strategic potential of Indian Ocean cooperation. Both countries are well positioned to work together on:

• Maritime security and blue economy initiatives

• Port development and logistics connectivity

• Renewable energy and climate resilience

• Tourism, cultural exchange, and education (including expanded Colombo Plan–style exchanges)

• South–Southeast Asia economic linkages

As global attention increasingly shifts toward the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean, Indonesia and Sri Lanka have a real opportunity to elevate their partnership from friendly to truly strategic—not through military alignment, but through trade, sustainability, human capital development, and inclusive regional leadership. The continued relevance of the Colombo Plan’s cooperative spirit adds an important historical foundation to that future-oriented partnership.

(Q) Indonesia and Sri Lanka share deep maritime and Buddhist histories. How can these be translated into modern diplomatic partnerships ?

(A) Indonesia and Sri Lanka share deep maritime and Buddhist histories that can be translated into modern diplomatic partnerships by:

• Strengthening maritime cooperation, including port connectivity, blue economy initiatives, Indian Ocean security dialogue, and enhanced fisheries cooperation—such as sustainable fishery management, combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, aquaculture development, and joint research on marine resources

• Promoting cultural and religious diplomacy, especially through Buddhist heritage exchanges, education, and tourism

• Expanding people-to-people ties, such as academic collaboration, monk exchanges, cultural programs, and technical exchanges in marine and coastal livelihoods

• Deepening multilateral cooperation, particularly within the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the United Nations

By turning shared history into practical cooperation—including stronger collaboration in fisheries and marine sustainability—both countries can build a forward-looking, resilient, and mutually beneficial diplomatic partnership rooted in their shared identity as Indian Ocean nations.

(Q) What are your priorities during your tenure as Indonesia’s envoy to Sri Lanka?

(A) During my tenure as Indonesian’s envoy to Sri Lanka, my priorities would be:

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Deepen political and diplomatic ties through regular high-level engagements and close coordination between our governments, based on mutual respect and shared regional interests.

Enhancing Economic and Trade Cooperation

Promote two-way trade, investment, and tourism by identifying new opportunities, supporting business partnerships, and encouraging collaboration in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, maritime industries, and the digital economy.

Promoting People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges

Foster closer connections between Indonesians and Sri Lankans through education, cultural diplomacy, tourism, and cooperation among youth, academics, and civil society.

Cooperation in Regional and Multilateral Forums

Strengthen collaboration within ASEAN–South Asia frameworks, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and other multilateral platforms to address shared challenges such as maritime security, climate change, and sustainable development.

Consular Protection and Citizen Services

Ensure the welfare, safety, and rights of Indonesian citizens in Sri Lanka while improving consular services and outreach.

Promoting Peace, Stability, and Sustainable Development

Support dialogue, inclusivity, and cooperation that contribute to regional stability and sustainable economic growth, drawing on Indonesia’s own experiences in democracy and development.

These priorities would guide my efforts to build a strong, forward-looking partnership between Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

(Q) As a woman leading Indonesia’s diplomatic mission, what unique perspectives do you bring to diplomacy?

(A) As a woman leading Indonesia’s diplomatic mission, I bring an inclusive and empathetic approach to diplomacy that values dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect. I believe effective diplomacy benefits from listening carefully to diverse perspectives and building consensus through understanding and trust.

I also bring a strong commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, both within the diplomatic mission and in our broader cooperation with Sri Lanka. By encouraging the participation of women and youth in economic, social, and peace-building initiatives, diplomacy becomes more representative and sustainable.

Most importantly, I bring professionalism, resilience, and Indonesia’s values of tolerance and cooperation, demonstrating that leadership in diplomacy is defined by integrity, capability, and dedication rather than gender.

(Q) How does Indonesia promote women’s participation and leadership on the global stage?

(A) Indonesia promotes women’s participation and leadership on the global stage through a combination of national policies, international advocacy, and practical cooperation.

At the national level, Indonesia has strengthened legal and institutional frameworks to advance gender equality, including policies that support women’s leadership in politics, the civil service, diplomacy, and the economy. Women increasingly serve as ministers, ambassadors, peacekeepers, and senior officials, reflecting Indonesia’s commitment to inclusive leadership.

At the international level, Indonesia actively advocates for the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, ASEAN, and the G20. Indonesia supports the meaningful participation of women in peace processes, conflict prevention, and post-conflict reconstruction, and contributes female peacekeepers and mediators to international missions.

Indonesia also promotes women’s economic empowerment globally by supporting women entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and digital inclusion initiatives through South–South and triangular cooperation, particularly with developing countries.

Through diplomacy, development cooperation, and example, Indonesia demonstrates that empowering women is essential to sustainable peace, economic growth, and effective global governance.

(Q) Indonesia culture from batik and cuisine and cinema has a powerful global appeal. How import is a culture as a diplomatic tool?

(A) Culture is a very important diplomatic tool because it builds understanding and trust in ways that formal diplomacy alone cannot. Through culture—such as batik, cuisine, cinema, music, and traditional arts—Indonesia shares its values of diversity, tolerance, and creativity with the world in a way that is accessible and engaging.

Cultural diplomacy helps people connect at a human level. When people experience Indonesian culture, they gain a deeper appreciation of Indonesia’s history, identity, and pluralistic society. This strengthens people-to-people ties, reduces misunderstandings, and creates a positive foundation for political, economic, and social cooperation.

An increasingly important driver of this cultural diplomacy is the role of the millennial and Gen Z generations. Young Indonesians actively promote batik, cuisine, and cinema through digital platforms, social media campaigns, creative start-ups, and international collaborations. By modernizing traditional batik designs, creating contemporary culinary brands, and producing globally relevant films, they make Indonesian culture more accessible to international audiences. Through influencers, content creators, student exchanges, film festivals, and culinary pop-ups abroad, millennials act as informal cultural ambassadors who bridge local heritage with global trends.

Culture also supports broader diplomatic objectives. It promotes tourism, encourages creative-industry partnerships, and opens opportunities for education and cultural exchange. Indonesian cinema and cuisine, for example, showcase contemporary stories and innovation while preserving tradition, making Indonesia relatable and relevant globally. Digital-native generations amplify this impact by leveraging technology, cross-cultural networks, and entrepreneurial creativity to expand Indonesia’s cultural reach.

In essence, culture is a form of soft power. It allows Indonesia to project a positive image, foster mutual respect, and build long-term relationships. With millennials and young creatives at the forefront—championing batik as sustainable fashion, cuisine as global culinary diplomacy, and cinema as a platform for storytelling—Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy becomes more dynamic, participatory, and influential in shaping global perceptions.

(Q) What drew you to a career in diplomacy and who inspired you along the way?

(A) I was drawn to a career in diplomacy by a strong desire to serve my country while building bridges between nations. From an early stage, I was fascinated by how dialogue, understanding, and cooperation could resolve differences and create opportunities for mutual benefit. Diplomacy offered a path to represent Indonesia’s values, interests, and diversity on the global stage while contributing to peace and development.

Along the way, I was inspired by Indonesia’s senior diplomats and national leaders who demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation. I was also inspired by women leaders—both in Indonesia and internationally—who showed that perseverance, competence, and principled leadership can overcome barriers and create meaningful change.

Equally important were mentors and colleagues who emphasized the importance of listening, cultural sensitivity, and empathy in diplomacy. Their guidance reinforced my belief that effective diplomacy is not only about negotiation, but also about building trust and lasting relationships between people and nations.

(Q) Are there places people or moments in Sri Lanka that have left a lasting impression on you?

(A) Yes, Sri Lanka has left a strong and lasting impression on me through its places, people, and moments. The warmth and generosity of the Sri Lankan people stand out most clearly. In my interactions, I have consistently felt a genuine openness and hospitality that make engagement both meaningful and memorable.

Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage is also deeply impressive. Visiting historic and sacred sites—such as ancient temples, cultural cities, and places of worship—reflects the country’s deep sense of history, resilience, and diversity. These places convey values of tolerance and coexistence that resonate strongly with Indonesia’s own multicultural identity.

Equally memorable are moments of everyday interaction: conversations with community leaders, students, artists, and businesspeople who are optimistic about the future and committed to rebuilding and progress. These encounters highlight Sri Lanka’s strength, dignity, and potential, and they reinforce my commitment to further strengthening the friendship between Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

(Q) How do you balance the demands of high level diplomacy with personal well being?

(A) Balancing the demands of high-level diplomacy with personal well-being requires deliberate focus, discipline, and self-awareness. Diplomacy often involves long hours, complex negotiations, and high-stakes decision-making, so maintaining mental, emotional, and physical health is essential to perform effectively.

I prioritize time management and set boundaries to ensure that I have moments for rest, reflection, and personal interests, even amidst a busy schedule. Practices such as regular exercise, reading, and staying connected with family and friends help me recharge and maintain perspective.

Equally important is cultivating a strong support system within the mission, where teamwork, delegation, and mutual trust allow responsibilities to be shared effectively. Mindfulness and self-reflection also help me approach challenges calmly and make decisions with clarity.

Ultimately, maintaining personal well-being is not just about self-care—it is integral to being a resilient, attentive, and effective diplomat, capable of representing Indonesia with focus, energy, and dedication.

(Q) What message would you like to share with Sri Lankan about Indonesia and its people?

(A) I would like to share with the people of Sri Lanka that Indonesia is a nation rich in diversity, culture, and natural beauty, and that its people are warm, resilient, and welcoming. Indonesians value harmony, tolerance, and cooperation, which are reflected in our traditions, arts, and everyday life.

Indonesia is committed to building strong friendships and partnerships with Sri Lanka, grounded in mutual respect and shared interests. We welcome cultural, educational, and economic exchanges, and we hope that more Sri Lankans will experience the richness of Indonesian culture, cuisine, and landscapes first hand.

Above all, I want the people of Sri Lanka to know that Indonesia sees them as close partners and friends. Together, our nations can grow, collaborate, and create opportunities for prosperity, peace, and mutual understanding in the region and beyond.


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Life style

Meet the author rewriting the rules of children’s fiction

Published

6 days ago

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2026/09/13

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Representation matters:

By Ifham Nizam

“There are no books written about pirates with prosthetic limbs, sporting blades, or racing wheelchairs—that is, until now,” says award-winning international children’s author Jann Weeratunga, whose Polly’s Piralympics series is challenging conventional ideas about who gets to be the hero in children’s literature.

For Weeratunga, representation is not simply about placing a disabled character somewhere in a story. It is about putting that character at the centre—leading, competing, winning, making friends, overcoming challenges and, most importantly, having adventures on their own terms.

Her books are designed not merely to be read, but to be experienced. Through interactive pages, children can colour, draw, write and respond to the stories, leaving something of themselves behind as they explore themes, ranging from disability and bullying to friendship, resilience and family.

At the heart of her growing literary brand is Polly’s Piralympics, a series in which disability is not presented as a limitation, but as part of a character’s identity and adventure.

The inspiration came from an unexpected moment during the closing speech of the 2012 London Paralympic Games by Sir Philip Craven. He recalled a young boy looking at an illustration of a pirate with an eye patch, a hook, a parrot and a wooden leg.

When his mother asked who the figure was, the boy replied that because the man had only one leg, “he must be an Olympian.”

The story moved Weeratunga deeply.

That moment of innocent perception—where disability was associated with sporting achievement rather than limitation—sparked the idea of Polly and her extraordinary Piralympic world.

In the series, Polly, a bird-napped African parrot, finds herself bullied in a Scottish pet shop before being rescued by Captain Hake. Their shared one-eyed view of the world becomes the beginning of an unusual friendship. Captain Hake teaches Polly the ways of a pirate, while Polly creates the Fellowship of Pirates and the Pirates Paralympics.

Soon, pirates from around the world are competing in events ranging from three-legged races and climb-the-rigging gymnastics to walk-the-plank diving and even a MasterChef competition.

It is an imaginative world, but behind the humour and adventure lies a serious message about inclusion and leadership.

Weeratunga recalls one school visit that brought home to her exactly why the books mattered.

A student with a prosthetic leg embraced her and said: “Thank you for writing these books for me, Auntie.”

The words left her overwhelmed.

“That was why I had written these books,” Weeratunga reflects.

Her journey towards becoming an author, however, began long before Polly sailed into the world of children’s fiction.

Earlier in her life, Weeratunga was a Scout Leader in the UK, where volunteering became a way of life. She subsequently spent a decade in Sri Lanka, falling in love not only with a Sri Lankan, but with the country itself.

After her husband died just four years into their marriage, she joined five other women to establish a small school in Senarathwela to teach English to those who wanted to learn. Many of her pupils, subsequently, found employment at the newly opened Victoria Golf Course.

When she returned to Sri Lanka in 2025 and revisited the village and golf course, she found a landscape transformed by new roads, homes, shops and businesses. But the people she had taught remained.

“The village is unrecognisable, with new roads, homes, shops and businesses, but my dear pupils were still there as Caddies, Caddy Master and Golf Pro. I was so proud of them,” she says.

Her connection with Sri Lanka deepened further during one of the country’s darkest moments.

On Boxing Day 2005, while holidaying in the UK with her recently widowed mother, Weeratunga was woken by the words: “Something terrible has happened in Sri Lanka.”

She rushed to the television and witnessed the devastating aftermath of the Indian Ocean tsunami.

That very day, she established a non-profit organisation to raise funds and take relief to Sri Lanka. With support from local McDonald’s franchises, schools in Ferndown, the Mayor of Ferndown, freight companies and her friend Mr Wijekoon, a local Grama Niladhari, she helped rebuild lives in Arugam Bay.

The experience was hands-on and deeply personal. A family’s home had been swept away, and days were spent persuading surfers to help construct a future for her adopted family.

A Montessori was established on the hill, within the Buddhist temple grounds, while evenings were spent crafting, building and working with a small but effective generator.

Meals of rice and curry, prepared by the family’s sisters, using provisions donated from Senarathwela, brought the long days to a close.

When Weeratunga returned to the family, in 2025, she was able to see how far they had come.

Jann Weeratunga

Today, living in South Africa, she continues to draw inspiration from the landscape around her.

“Travelling—it leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller,” she says, echoing the famous words attributed to Ibn Battuta.

And storytelling has become her way of opening conversations with a new generation.

While Polly’s Piralympics remains the flagship of her children’s publishing brand, Weeratunga’s wider collection explores a range of issues that matter to children and parents.

Terry and the Bully gives children practical and empowering ways to stand up for themselves, transforming a difficult subject into a story through which young readers can explore courage and self-confidence.

In Evie Visiting Grandma, children encounter the sensitive experience of visiting a loved one who now lives in a residential home. Rather than avoiding a potentially difficult subject, the story gently opens the door to conversations about ageing, family and change.

Terry the Toucane explores another universal childhood experience—the challenge and beauty of being different. Its central message is simple: being different should never prevent us from developing deep and lasting friendships.

Then there is Captain Bluebird, a resilient and entertaining adventure exploring what happens when Captain Bluebird receives a brand-new ship.

Across the collection, Weeratunga combines entertainment with meaningful life lessons, while her interactive approach gives children an opportunity to become participants rather than passive readers.

They can colour illustrations, draw pictures and respond to pages, making each reading experience personal.

That approach also gives the books an added value for parents and educators. They can become conversation starters—helping adults discuss subjects that children may find difficult to raise directly.

For Weeratunga, this is part of the larger purpose of her work.

Her books seek to fill a gap in children’s literature where diverse characters are not simply included for the sake of inclusion, but are given agency, personality and leadership.

In Polly’s Piralympics, disabled characters are not watching from the sidelines. They are the stars.

They lead.

They compete.

They win.

They champion their own adventures.

And that, ultimately, is the brand Weeratunga is building: children’s stories in which every child can find a place, a voice and perhaps even a little courage to become the hero of their own story.

Representation matters.

For young readers in Sri Lanka, Weeratunga’s books are now available through Sarasavi Bookshop, Vijitha Yapa Bookshop, M. D. Gunasena and Expo Graphics, Battaramulla.

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An evening where hearts sang as one

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6 days ago

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2026/09/13

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Rajiv and Clan kept the evening alive with their vibrant music

By Zanita Careem

Music, laughter and a generous spirit filled Raflfles Hotel Colombo as Heart to Heart sing along brought together a vibrant gathering for an evening of melody, friendship and giving. The elegant ballroom reverberated with familiar lyrics as guests joined in, sang along and simply let their hair down. Adding to the infections atmosphere was the talented Rajiv and Clan, whose lively performance kept the energy soaring and had the gathering singing to some much loved favourites.

Keeping the evening moving with plenty of wit and warmth was the compere Mirzab Sherifdeen who ensured there was never a dull moment between the music, laughter and spontaneous sing-along moments, Guests were also treated to prizes galore adding an extra element of excitement to an already festive evening. There was cheers as winners stepped forward to collect their prizes, while friends and families aplauded and celebrated every winning moment.

Yet beneath all the sparkle was the meaningful purpose of Heart to Heart Trust Fund, founded by Dr. Rajitha Y de Silva and Dr. Ruwan Ekanayake, bringing people together in support of a cause built on compassion and care.

The dedications and the volunteering was evident throughout the evening with their commitment adding a special warmth to this special event.

Adding to the evening’s indulgence was a sumptous spread of cuisine by the Raffles, Hotel with an enticing selectiom that kept guests happily returning for more. From savoury favourites to tempting desserts, the food complemented the festive mood perfectly.

As the final song faded and the evening drew to a close, there was a quiet sense of gratitude. Behind the music, laughter, prizs and beautiful memories was a cause built as compassion, a cause that has continued to touch lives through the dedication of Dr. Rajitha de Silva and everyone who has stood beside him in the journey of Heart to Heart.

And as guests left Raffles Hotel with the last melodies still lingering in the air the most beautiful note of the evening remained – the sound of hearts earning for hearts. At the very heart of Hearts to Heart is Dr. Rajitha whose compassion has become the soul of the initiative. Dr. Rajitha’s work reminds us that medicine is not only about repairing what is broken. It is about giving people the courage to believe in tomorrow. And perhaps that is the greatest gift he offers. This spirit was beautifully reflected throughout the evening.It was a beautiful evening of music, friendship and generosity, with every contribution going towards a worthy cause- keeping alive a legacy built one one simple but powerful belief that every heart deserves a chance to beat on.

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Life style

Taste of Ceylon leaves a lasting flavour

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6 days ago

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2026/09/13

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The scene at Taste of Ceylon

Taste of Ceylon opened its doors at Beira Kitchen, Courtyard by Marriott Colombo, on September 3rd; a festival of Southern, Central, Uva and Northern regional food, brought together on one table.

Four Regions, One Unforgettable Table

Each night, guests moved between four distinct culinary worlds. From the South came the deep, coconut-rich flavours of malu abulthiyal and Negombo pork curry with pineapple, alongside a lively fish polla roti action station. The Central province brought Kandalama lake fish, black octopus curry and carrot kalupol; dishes rooted in the region’s lakes and forests. Uva’s table leaned rustic and warming, with village chicken stew, prawn curry with murunga, and a coconut pittu drawing steady queues. And from the North came bold, unmistakable flavours of Jaffna crab curry, Jaffna mutton curry, and a dosai action station that quickly became one of the evening’s most talked-about corners.

Layered around the four regional stations was a spread that told its own story of Sri Lankan hospitality, from belimal herbal welcome drinks and a bread corner stretching from curry leaves rolls to kurakkan viyana rolls, to a dessert corner where watalappan, wood-apple coconut wandu and king coconut jelly sat alongside a full spread of traditional Sri Lankan sweets like kokis, athirasa and aluwa.

What the guests had to say

The feedback on opening night carried a common thread: guests were struck by just how different each region’s food tasted, side by side, on the same table. What could easily have blurred into “just Sri Lankan food” instead came through as four distinct culinary identities; the fire of the North, the coastal warmth of the South, the earthiness of the Central hills, and the rustic comfort of Uva, each unmistakably its own.

A Word from the team

Reflecting on the festival, the team at Courtyard by Marriott Colombo shared that Taste of Ceylon was designed from the start to be more than a menu. It was meant to be an experience guests could travel through, one region at a time, without leaving Beira Kitchen. Judging by the response over the four nights, that’s exactly how it landed.

There were many rave reviews and as the Taste of Ceylon experience at Beira Lake drew to a close, the flavours, aromas and vibrant spirit of Sri Lanka lingered on.

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