In a significant move to strengthen cultural ties with its neighbor, the Indonesian government has launched a new initiative aimed at promoting Indonesian culture and education in Timor-Leste. The launch of Radio Suara PBI and a digital podcast program via YouTube took place on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the Indonesian Cultural Center (Pusat Budaya Indonesia/PBI) in Dili.
The event was officiated by Professor Ikhfan Haris, Education and Cultural Attaché of the Indonesian Embassy in Dili, and attended by representatives from various sectors, including the Press Council of Timor-Leste, Indonesian state-owned enterprises, private companies, and local partners from the education and cultural sectors. This marked a strategic step in Indonesia's cultural diplomacy efforts in Timor-Leste.
The initiative aims to increase access to information about Indonesia, particularly in the fields of education and culture. One key focus is on introducing scholarship opportunities at Indonesian universities for Timorese students. The program will provide a platform for youth and student presenters from Timor-Leste to share their perspectives and stories with a wider audience.
By combining radio broadcasts with digital podcast formats, PBI Dili seeks to reach a broader audience, foster stronger people-to-people connections between Indonesia and Timor-Leste, and promote sustainable cultural cooperation. The launch is part of the Indonesian Cultural Center's efforts to advance Indonesia's cultural diplomacy in Timor-Leste, serving as a hub for Indonesian language learning, cultural promotion, and educational and cultural cooperation networks.
The program will also include live broadcasts, discussions, and interviews with experts and thought leaders from both countries, providing a platform for cultural exchange and understanding. With this initiative, Indonesia aims to strengthen its relationships with Timor-Leste through people-to-people diplomacy, promoting mutual understanding and respect between the two nations.
In conclusion, the launch of Radio Suara PBI and the digital podcast program marks an important milestone in Indonesia's cultural diplomacy efforts in Timor-Leste. By increasing access to information about Indonesian culture and education, the initiative aims to promote people-to-people connections and sustainable cultural cooperation between the two nations.