Naveed Ahmed Khan
ISLAMABAD—Acting Charge d’Affaires Mr. Ferry J. Murdiansyah and Colonel Budi Wiman, Defense Attaché, hosted a reception to commemorate Indonesia’s Armed Forces Day and honor the valor of its military personnel. The event saw representation from Pakistan, with officials from all three military branches in attendance, and Air Marshal Shakil Ghazanfar serving as the chief guest.
General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, conveyed his congratulations to the Indonesian military and its people through a recorded message screened during the reception. He praised the bravery of Indonesian soldiers and expressed his best wishes while highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation in defense.
The reception was further graced by defense attaches from ASEAN countries and other nations, including Dean Abu Rubail Mohammad Shahab Ud Din. High Commissioners from Malaysia, Brunei, Myanmar, and Deputy Head of Mission from Thailand also participated in the event.
A moment of silence was observed in honor of the martyrs of the Indonesian armed forces. The national anthems of both countries were performed using traditional Indonesian instruments. Students and families of Indonesian diplomats showcased their cultural heritage through captivating performances, donning traditional attire that delighted attendees.
In his address, Colonel Budi Wiman reflected fondly on his time in Islamabad as he nears the conclusion of his tenure. He expressed gratitude to various Pakistani institutions, including the Directorate General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), the General Headquarters of the Pakistan Army, and the Government of Pakistan for their support during his service.
Acting Charge d’Affaires Mr. Ferry J. Murdiansyah welcomed guests by emphasizing the significant contributions of the Indonesian armed forces in safeguarding national sovereignty and stability. He noted that the military has effectively united the nation while addressing contemporary challenges.
Mr. Murdiansyah traced the historical ties between Indonesia and Pakistan back to their shared anti-colonial struggles under leaders such as President Sukarno and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He acknowledged the role of the Indonesian Armed Forces in fostering strong military cooperation between both nations.
Notably, this reporter visited Indonesia in October 2024, where I explored Bandung city—a historical site where Indonesia and Pakistan collaborated to combat colonialism. The legacy of this partnership is preserved at a historical hall that once hosted Asian and African leaders advocating for freedom movements.
Guests at the reception enjoyed a selection of delectable Indonesian dishes that received high praise for their flavor and presentation, reflecting the meticulous arrangements made by the organizers at the residence of the Defense Attaché.