Foundation spreads word on Japanese culture

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

The proliferation of Japanese language centers, manga (comics), hair and beauty salons, restaurants and supermarkets in Indonesia speaks volumes in showing the penetration of Japanese culture into the country.

A growing number of Indonesians are visiting Japanese associations and clubs, such as the Japan Foundation, to feed their interest in Japan's history, rich culture, music and even video animations.

"We have around 30,000 people visiting here every year to borrow films, books, do research, study the language or attend our free events and classes," said Diana Nugroho, a program officer in the foundation's cultural section.

The Japanese-speaking Indonesian woman added that there has been a growing interest in Japanese culture, especially among the city's younger generation.

"Teenagers usually ask us about manga and fashion. University students love Japanese pop music. Older women enquire about the geisha (women raised to serve as entertainers for male guests), kimono (traditional clothing) and yukata (traditional summer clothing). Not to mention children's questions about the existence of ninja!" she said.

Japan Foundation assistant director Tsukamoto Norihisa said that the organization, established in 1979 in Jakarta, was part of the Japanese government's response to anti-Japanese sentiment in Indonesia.

In 1974, the Malapetaka 15 Januari (January 15 Tragedy) riots rocked the capital during a visit by then Japanese prime minister Kakuei Tanaka, with demonstrators burning Japanese vehicles and businesses. Many Indonesians at that time were increasingly angry at the business community's close relationship to then president Soeharto, and the domination of the country's economy by Japanese companies.

"Some people thought that the domination of Japanese businesses, such as Toyota and Suzuki, meant that Japan intended to rule Indonesia again," said Tsukamoto.

"We want to bring Japanese culture to Indonesia so that Indonesians will know what Japan is, and also to bring Indonesian culture to Japanese expatriates here. That way, both sides gain understanding and continue to benefit each other."

"It is what we call sociopolitical diplomacy," added Diana, "it smooths the bilateral relationship and provides a sense of security that can prevent tension."

Events held by the foundations include dance performances, acapella music, movies, photo and traditional clothing exhibitions.

The foundation also holds economical intermediate to advanced level Japanese language courses for Rp 600,000 (US$63) per year, including books.

However, the number of students is limited due to a lack of space and manpower. Interested students are usually referred to one of the 30 or so Japanese language centers in Greater Jakarta.

The most significant challenge that the foundation faces in holding their events, according to Diana, is scheduling.

"Because we are located on Jl. Sudirman, people get held up by the three-in-one traffic arrangement. Jakartans are also very busy people, and to tackle the problem, we usually hold our exhibitions at 8 p.m.," she said.

Tsukamoto added that the foundation would continue its mission to present up-to-date developments in Japanese culture to Indonesia as it evolves and changes. (005)