The evening was filled with warmth, a sense of togetherness, and a shared understanding of the significance of this extraordinary bilateral relationship for those who experience it every day.

This year’s celebration centered on a theme close to both nations’ hearts: water. As 2026 marks 25 years of water cooperation between Indonesia and the Netherlands, no symbol could better capture what unites these two nations. The Netherlands—a country shaped by its struggle against the sea—has spent centuries learning to live alongside water. Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, lives through water; a beautiful truth captured in the national motto Tanah Airku—“my homeland,” literally “my land and water.”

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Marc Gerritsen highlighted these close ties, while also expressing gratitude for President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to The Hague and the warm welcome Indonesia extended to Queen Máxima during her visit in her capacity as UN Special Envoy for Financial Health. The Ambassador reaffirmed what is already known to both nations: the Netherlands is, and will remain, a reliable partner for Indonesia.

The Guest of Honor that evening, Coordinating Minister H.E. Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), delivered a speech. He spoke about the growing strength of Indonesia–Netherlands relations, the various opportunities awaiting in the fields of water management and infrastructure, and, in a moment that delighted the audience, shared fond memories of visiting Volendam with his family. Minister AHY, tulips are always in bloom for you. You are always welcome to return anytime!

The Embassy was honored to welcome a number of high-ranking Indonesian government officials, along with representatives from European Union member states and partners, international organizations, business leaders, NGOs, the media, and members of the Indonesian and Dutch communities in Jakarta.

Ambassador Gerritsen opened the official celebration by raising a glass on stage, accompanied by:

• H.E. Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono — Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Development
• H.E. Yusril Ihza Mahendra — Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections
• H.E. Prof. Stella Christie — Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology
• H.E. Veronica Tan — Vice Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection
• H.E. Ni Luh Puspa — Vice Minister of Tourism

An evening like this does not happen without exceptional support. Our sincere thanks go to sponsors Heineken Indonesia and De Heus, and to all the Dutch companies across Indonesia whose generosity and commitment to this community made the night possible.
Here's to the enduring friendship between two nations that have, across centuries and across oceans, always found their way back to each other.

Lang leve de Koning!