Indonesia and France are enhancing their cultural cooperation through new initiatives aimed at heritage conservation, film production, and the arts. During a meeting in Paris on October 7, Indonesian Culture Minister Fadli Zon and French Culture Minister Catherine Pégard discussed plans to increase the visibility of Indonesian culture in France and foster cultural exchange between the two nations.
The partnership builds on the 2025 Borobudur Declaration, intending to strengthen cultural ties and promote public engagement with both countries’ cultural heritage. Proposed initiatives include Indonesian music performances, fashion exhibitions showcasing traditional textiles and modern designs, and art exhibitions highlighting Indonesian fine art.
In the realm of heritage conservation, Indonesia is collaborating with the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALIPH) Foundation to revitalize ten priority heritage projects across eight provinces. These projects include the Tjong A Fie Mansion in North Sumatra, the Betang Longhouse in West Kalimantan, and Jakarta’s Kota Tua historic district, among others. Additionally, efforts to protect Borobudur Temple’s historic reliefs from environmental pressures are underway, with discussions on improving conservation methods and museum management continuing between the countries.
The film industry is another focal point of this expanded cooperation. Indonesia is planning to launch the Indonesia International Film Co-production Fund in 2027 with technical support from France’s National Centre for Cinema and the Moving Image. The two countries are also preparing for the third Indonesia-France Film Lab at the JAFF Market, which supports collaboration between filmmakers and strengthens international film projects. Moreover, discussions are ongoing to enhance Indonesia’s presence at the Cannes Film Festival in 2028.
This enhanced partnership between Indonesia and France is expected to create new opportunities for cultural exchange, safeguard Indonesia’s historic sites, and bolster collaboration between Indonesian and French artists, filmmakers, and cultural institutions.