Khalid Tawalbeh
Doha
In a celebration of unity and tradition, the Indonesian Embassy in Doha recently hosted a vibrant community gathering titled ‘Halal bil Halal: Silaturrahim of Indonesian Community in Qatar’.
The event was held on April 12 at the prestigious Le Royal Meridien Hotel in Doha. With nearly 800 Indonesian citizens in attendance, the atmosphere was filled with joy and camaraderie as Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar HE Ridwan Hassan, accompanied by his wife Lita Hassan, graced the occasion with his presence.
During his address, HE Ridwan Hassan conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Indonesian community for their pivotal role in fostering strong relations between Indonesia and Qatar. He emphasised the significance of closer collaboration between the community and the Indonesian Embassy to further bolster bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
“I always say that the Indonesian people are an essential element in Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts in Qatar,” remarked Ambassador Hassan, underlining the vital role of the community in diplomacy. Halal bil Halal holds a special place in Indonesian culture, particularly during Eid Al-Fitr. Rooted in the spirit of forgiveness and unity, this tradition sees Indonesian families and friends coming together to seek forgiveness and offer prayers for each other’s well-being. Despite being far from their homeland, Indonesian expatriates in Qatar were keen on preserving this cherished tradition.
“Even though we live far from Indonesia, we are committed to maintaining this beautiful tradition,” affirmed Ali Murtado, head of the socio-cultural cooperation division at the Indonesian Embassy in Doha. The event was not just a celebration of culture and tradition but also a feast for the senses, featuring a delightful array of traditional Indonesian cuisine. From the savoury aroma of satay to the fragrant yellow rice and an assortment of Indonesian snacks, attendees were treated to a taste of home. The ambiance was further enriched by the presence of several foreign citizens who have embraced Indonesian culture and were warmly welcomed as Friends of Indonesia.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Ridwan Hassan expressed gratitude to the Qatari Government for its unwavering support and exemplary service to the Indonesian Community in Qatar. This sentiment of appreciation echoed throughout the gathering, underscoring the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Qatar. As the event concluded, the echoes of laughter and joy lingered, symbolizing not only a celebration of Eid Al-Fitr but also a celebration of unity, cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of togetherness within the Indonesian community in Qatar.
