Osaka, Kansai, Japan – Indonesia once again showcased its cultural richness on the international stage through the World Expo 2025 in Osaka. Following a batik exhibition and Batik Liem Ping Wie workshop, this time the Djiantika Studio from East Kalimantan presented Indonesia’s cultural wealth. Two traditional dances, the Enggang Dance and the Gong Dance from East Kalimantan, were performed at the Indonesia Pavilion on Thursday (1 May) for 15 minutes each at 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM local time.

Both dances received positive responses from pavilion visitors, especially Japanese attendees who were enthusiastic about capturing the moment, admiring the dancers’ costumes, and participating in trying the Enggang and Gong dance movements.

Novarita, Head of the East Kalimantan Cultural Park UPTD, stated that this participation was more than just a performance—it was an effort to strengthen national identity.

“For us, performing at an event like the World Expo 2025 Osaka isn’t just about appearing on the international stage. We carry Indonesia’s name—not just as entertainment, but as a living cultural heritage. When we perform the Enggang or Gong Dances from East Kalimantan, we’re not merely showcasing movement—we’re telling a story, expressing spirit, and conveying philosophies passed down through generations,” explained Novarita, a Dance Studies Lecturer at Mulawarman University.

She also appreciated the initiative of the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas for driving the participation of East Kalimantan's culture in the Land of the Rising Sun. This commitment shows that Bappenas is now actively involved in the development and preservation of Indonesian culture—not only as a national development planner but also as a cultural driver.

Indonesia’s participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka not only strengthens nation branding and the image of Indonesian culture in the eyes of the world but also demonstrates that national development can go hand-in-hand with cultural heritage preservation. This moment is a tangible manifestation of Bappenas providing a platform for artists to perform on the international stage. Preserving culture through dance is an effective way to maintain national identity amid the tide of globalization. In line with the overarching theme of the Indonesia Pavilion at the World Expo 2025 Osaka, “Thriving in Harmony—Nature, Culture, Future,” the Enggang and Gong Dances serve as a symbol of respect for the ancestors and nature of East Kalimantan, blending traditional dance elements with contemporary art.

Echoing Novarita’s remarks, the Director of the Indonesia Pavilion Didik Darmanto explained that the Enggang and Gong Dances are significant representations of Indonesian culture, particularly for the Dayak people.

“The Enggang and Gong Dances carry a long history and are integral to traditional rituals and the identity of the Dayak people in East Kalimantan. These are not just dances—they are a window into Kalimantan. Their graceful yet powerful movements reflect the beauty of nature and the noble values that live within the community,” Didik concluded.

Bappenas Promotes Strengthening of National Cultural Development through Showcase of Enggang and Gong Dances at Expo Osaka