Indonesia’s renewed and significantly expanded presence at the Cairo International Book Fair, a development highlighted by the inauguration of a dedicated pavilion in 2026, represents a subtle but strategically important evolution in Jakarta’s approach to regional influence and the broader promotion of moderate Islamic values. This engagement, backed by a newly formalized Strategic Partnership Agreement with Egypt, underscores a growing awareness of soft power as a critical component of Indonesia’s foreign policy, particularly within the context of global security challenges and the ongoing debate surrounding the interpretation of Islam. The initiative—centered around disseminating Indonesian scholarship and cultural heritage—directly confronts narratives often associated with extremist groups while simultaneously addressing critical concerns regarding literacy and access to knowledge, vital elements in fostering stability across the Middle East and Africa.
The significance of this participation extends beyond simply showcasing Indonesian publications. It reflects a calculated effort to bolster Indonesia’s standing as a leading voice within the global Islamic community and to shape the discourse around Islamic thought. Historically, Indonesia has navigated a complex position, balancing its role as the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation with its commitment to secular governance and democratic principles. This duality has been, at times, a source of tension, yet also a key element in Indonesia’s attempts to present a moderate and inclusive vision of Islam. The Cairo Book Fair provides a crucial platform to articulate this vision.
Prior to 2026, Indonesia's involvement in international book fairs was intermittent, largely driven by direct engagement with local Muslim communities. The shift towards a more formalized diplomatic strategy is directly linked to the Strategic Partnership Agreement inked in April 2025 between Indonesia and Egypt, solidifying a commitment to shared values and mutual cooperation. This partnership, initiated under President Prabowo Subianto and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, represents a deliberate attempt to cultivate relationships predicated on “Wasathiyah Islam” – a concept central to Indonesia's approach to Islamic governance, emphasizing moderation, balance, and rationalism. The explicit framing of the Cairo Book Fair participation around this core principle highlights a targeted effort to counter radical ideologies and bolster a narrative of inclusive Islam.
“The Cairo International Book Fair is one of the largest literacy platforms in the Middle East and Africa, as well as a meeting space of civilizations that brings together ideas, scholarly traditions, and networks of cultural diplomacy in the Islamic world,” stated the Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Cairo. This sentiment, echoed by Dr. Aminah Khalil, a specialist in Islamic studies at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, who noted, “Indonesia’s focus on ‘Wasathiyah Islam’ is particularly relevant given the current geopolitical climate, where extremist voices often dominate the narrative. Their presence offers a valuable counterpoint and demonstrates a commitment to reasoned dialogue and peaceful coexistence.” The inclusion of innovative publications, such as the Sign-Language Qur’an, speaks to this commitment. According to data released by UNESCO, literacy rates in the Middle East and North Africa remain significantly lower than the global average – approximately 82% – highlighting a critical gap in access to education and information. The Indonesian pavilion directly addresses this deficit.
Key stakeholders in this initiative include the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs, responsible for curating the selection of publications and managing the logistical aspects of the pavilion; the Egyptian government, which facilitates the event and provides strategic support; and, crucially, the broader Islamic scholarly community in the Middle East and Africa, who represent the intended audience for these materials. “The Strategic Partnership Agreement doesn’t just outline economic cooperation; it’s a commitment to shared values and a framework for promoting a more tolerant and understanding global community,” explained Ahmed El-Sayed, a political analyst specializing in Egyptian-Indonesian relations at the Cairo Center for Strategic Studies. The long-term impact of this diplomatic push will depend heavily on Indonesia’s ability to maintain consistent engagement and to genuinely demonstrate its commitment to the principles of “Wasathiyah Islam.”
Short-term outcomes for the next six months are likely to see increased engagement with regional scholars and educators, potentially leading to collaborative research projects and educational exchanges. Longer-term, the initiative’s success hinges on its ability to foster genuine dialogue and to contribute to broader efforts to promote moderate Islamic values within the region. The Strategic Partnership Agreement provides a formal structure, but sustained commitment and adaptability will be vital. The potential for expanded collaborations in areas such as Islamic finance and education is also a distinct possibility. The increased visibility of Indonesia’s cultural and intellectual contributions at the Cairo Book Fair is poised to subtly but significantly influence the ongoing debate on Islamic governance and scholarship, acting as a measured counterweight to more volatile narratives. The strategic value of this engagement is tied to the broader geopolitical landscape: increased stability in the Middle East and North Africa, underpinned by shared values and inclusive approaches to religious understanding.