The governments of Indonesia and Türkiye officially inaugurated the “Indonesia Village” project in Taşoluk, a village in Hatay’s Kırıkhan district, on February 3, 2025. The initiative stands as a testament to the strong ties between the two nations, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake of February 6, 2023.
The opening ceremony was attended by Indonesia’s Ambassador to Ankara, Achmad Rizal PURNAMA, Hatay Governor Mustafa Masatlı, and Turkey’s General Director of Infrastructure Works at the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, Murat Oral. Additional attendees included Hatay representative of the Parliament Necmettin Çalışkan, local and central government officials, honorary consuls of Indonesia in Türkiye, representatives of the Türkiye-Indonesia Friendship Association, members of the Indonesian community in Hatay, and Taşoluk village residents. The event received significant media coverage in Türkiye.
A Symbol of Solidarity and Friendship
The Indonesia Village project was initiated as a gesture of solidarity following the earthquake, with the Indonesian government contributing to constructing 37 homes in Taşoluk for affected families. Funded by the Indonesian Development Cooperation Fund with a total budget of $3.3 million. The project was implemented through the Türkiye-Indonesia Friendship Association. By November 2024, all homes had been inspected and verified to meet the construction standards of both nations.
Strengthening Indonesia-Türkiye Relations
During the ceremony, Governor Masatlı and General Director Oral expressed gratitude for Indonesia’s support during Türkiye’s challenging times. Ambassador Purnama emphasized that Indonesia Village represents more than a housing project; it is a lasting symbol of the strong brotherhood between Indonesia and Türkiye. He stressed the importance of strengthening government-level cooperation and people-to-people connections.
Recalling Türkiye’s swift assistance following the 2004 Aceh tsunami, Ambassador Purnama highlighted Indonesia’s reciprocation in 2023. The Indonesia Village project underscores both nations’ commitment to supporting one another in times of crisis through concrete actions rather than words.
A New Beginning for Taşoluk Village
Addressing the villagers, Ambassador PURNAMA expressed his hopes that Indonesia Village would serve as a new home, a safe haven, and a symbol of hope. He reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Indonesia and Türkiye, which he believes will persist for generations.
The inauguration also marks a significant milestone as 2025 commemorates the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Indonesia. The project strengthens bilateral cooperation and sets the stage for future joint initiatives as both countries look toward the centennial celebration of their diplomatic ties in 2050.
