Forging Connections from Bandung to Africa's Discoteque: Linking Asia and Africa in Indonesia's Sphere
Indonesia and Africa share a unique bond that stretches beyond the geographical lines, weaving together stories of music, culture, and history. This connection is particularly significant to many Indonesians, especially those engaged in historical, activistic, and social matters.
One of the most iconic moments in this relationship is the 1955 Bandung Conference, a historic event that took place in Indonesia during Soekarno's heightened sovereignty in newly independent Indonesia. This conference marked the start of a global and non-aligned movement, signifying a pivotal moment in Indonesia's history. Today, Jalan Asia Afrika (Asia Africa Street) in Central Jakarta and Bandung, West Java, serves as a lasting urban marker of this significant event.
In more recent times, the Indonesian scene has been enlivened by Disko Afrika, a platform that brings African music genres such as Amapiano, Afrobeats, Kizomba, Gqom, and other electronic-dance beats to the forefront. This vibrant event, which began in 2020 at Savaya, Uluwatu, Bali, has become a bi-monthly or tri-monthly fixture. African DJs often headline these events, with Indonesian DJs like Batik Boy, Amtake, and Mokodee also participating.
Alexei Wahyudiputra, a researcher at Airlangga Institute of Indian Ocean Crossroads and a lecturer at Universitas Airlangga in Indonesia, has been delving into the cultural and literary aspects of this intersection. His works revolve around Music, Cinema, Literary Text, and Affect, providing insights into the rich tapestry of cultural exchange that Disko Afrika represents.
The exoticism of Africa in Indonesia's popular culture often leans towards stereotypical images of wild animals, savannahs, kingdoms, and narrow traditionalisms. However, Disko Afrika's social media presence combines African traditional symbolism with an exotic sonic quality, offering a more nuanced and contemporary portrait of the African continent.
Beyond music and culture, the connection between Indonesia and Africa is evident in other areas. The Asia Afrika Students Scholarship (AASS) offered by Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang attracts many African students, fostering educational exchange and cultural understanding. The KNB Scholarship also plays a role in bringing a significant number of African students to Indonesia.
The sports field is another arena where the connection between the two nations is evident. Almost every professional Indonesian football team has African players, and four African players have undergone citizenship naturalization in Indonesia.
In the heart of Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, a food stall selling mutton satay called Sate Domba Afrika is popular among Jakartans, reflecting the culinary influence of Africa in Indonesia.
The spirit of the 1955 Bandung Conference lives on, with platforms like Bandung Spirit, created in 2021, continuing to commemorate the spirit of the conference. The next commemoration is planned for October 2025.
In conclusion, the connection between Indonesia and Africa is a rich and vibrant one, spanning music, culture, history, education, and sports. From the historic 1955 Bandung Conference to the modern Disko Afrika, this connection continues to evolve, offering a testament to the enduring bond between these two diverse and fascinating nations.
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