By:
• Chhuon Kongieng

• 2, September 2024 , 6:15 PM

PHNOM PENH – The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Phnom Penh has announced a new name for its annual trade and tourism event. As 2024 marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Cambodia, the event has been rebranded from Indonesian Trade and Tourism Promotion to Sousdey Indonesia.

This marks the 14th year of the event, which has been a popular fixture since 2006.

This year’s expanded event will take place on September 13 and 14 at the Diamond Island Exhibition and Convention Center in Phnom Penh.

Sousdey Indonesia offers Indonesian companies 100 free booths to showcase their products and services, a significant increase from 40 the previous year.

The event will feature a diverse range of Indonesian businesses, including 73 Indonesian companies, 41 Cambodian distributors of Indonesian products, and a Vietnamese company owned by an Indonesian entrepreneur.

During a press conference on August 30, Indonesian Ambassador Santo Darmosumarto emphasized the dual purpose of Sousdey Indonesia. 

“Sousdey Indonesia is not only a platform for cultural exchange but also a valuable opportunity to deepen our understanding of trade and investment prospects between Indonesia and Cambodia,” the ambassador stated.

“Both countries have much to learn from each other, and this event provides a vital platform to showcase our respective advancements and foster closer cooperation,” he added. “It’s particularly important for Indonesian companies to gain insights into Cambodia's recent developments beyond its historical context.”

Ambassador Darmosumarto also emphasized the crucial role of the media in bridging the gap between the two nations, underscoring that their efforts cannot be overlooked in fostering mutual understanding.

Sousdey Indonesia will host various activities including an exhibition showcasing Indonesia's high-quality products, a tourism promotion featuring tour packages to popular destinations, an education fair highlighting study opportunities and scholarships. 

In addition to business opportunities, Sousdey Indonesia will showcase vibrant cultural performances, including Indonesian and Cambodian student dance performances and a fashion show celebrating Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, particularly the traditional textile art form known as ‘batik’.