Enviro News Asia, Millbrae — The Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the United States, Dwisuryo Indroyono Soesilo, together with the Consul General of Indonesia in San Francisco, Yohpy Ichsan Wardhana, officially opened the World Angklung Day: 15 Years of UNESCO Inscription festival held on 15 November 2025 in Millbrae, California. This year’s celebration marks the 15th anniversary of Angklung’s recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, a significant milestone that continues to strengthen Indonesia’s cultural presence on the global stage.
The event, organized by Indonesia Lighthouse under the leadership of Ari Sufiati, featured several Angklung communities across California, including Angklung Cenderawasih and Angklung San Jose. The festival also highlighted a special performance by Manshur Angklung, the renowned Indonesian Angklung maestro known for blending traditional bamboo music with modern technology—showcasing the dynamic evolution of Indonesia’s cultural heritage.
This year’s celebration received support from the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Embassy of Indonesia in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in San Francisco, and other Indonesian partners. It also garnered broad participation from Angklung communities across the United States, including groups from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Virginia, Maryland, Texas, Georgia, New York, Hawai‘i, Illinois, Colorado, Florida, and several other states.
In his remarks, Ambassador Indroyono expressed appreciation for the dedication and spirit of Angklung communities throughout the U.S. He emphasized that “Angklung reflects the values of unity and mutual cooperation that have long defined Indonesia,” adding that “this festival demonstrates how a simple bamboo instrument can bring people together, bridge cultural differences, and inspire mutual understanding and harmony around the world.”
The event, held at Mills High School, was also attended by Millbrae Mayor Anders Fung, who officially declared 15 November as Angklung Day in the City of Millbrae. Mayor Fung highlighted Angklung’s historical roots dating back to the 12th century and its symbolic meaning of togetherness, where communities from diverse backgrounds unite to create harmony through music.
The festival program featured a variety of Indonesian and Western songs performed with Angklung, including Nusantara medleys arranged for Angklung, as well as musical performances accompanying traditional dance and Nusantara costume showcases.
The event concluded with collective appreciation for Angklung’s role in strengthening community bonds, aligning with Indonesia’s continued commitment to promoting people-to-people connections and enhancing cultural ties across communities throughout the United States. (*)
