As part of her official visit to Jakarta, Indonesia, accompanying her husband, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, First Lady Emine Erdoğan visited the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE). Upon her arrival, she was warmly welcomed by YEE President Prof. Dr. Abdurrahman Aliy, YEE Indonesia Director Cemal Şahin, and a group of students holding Turkish and Indonesian flags.
During her visit, Emine Erdoğan toured the institute and received detailed information from Aliy and Şahin about the ongoing activities and programs. She also explored the Archival Documents Exhibition, which showcases the historical ties between the Ottoman Empire and Indonesia from 1567 to 1920.
Highlights of the Exhibition
The exhibition featured significant documents, including:
A letter from Indonesian Muslims requesting Ottoman assistance to reduce Hajj pilgrimage costs.
A letter of gratitude from Indonesia to the Ottoman Empire for thwarting British colonial plans in Southeast Asia.
A report on the Ottoman Empire’s support for the Muslim community in Aceh against Dutch oppression.
A thank-you letter from Javanese King Sharif Ali to Sultan Abdulhamid II for the Ottoman Empire’s role in liberating Java from enemies.
Engaging with Students
After the exhibition, Emine Erdoğan visited Turkish language classes and the library, where she interacted with Indonesian students. During a lesson titled "My Dream About Turkey," students shared their aspirations and dreams about Turkey. One student expressed her desire to pursue a Ph.D. in Turkey, stating, “I’ve visited Turkey twice and was amazed by its historical beauty. I miss Turkish food and hope to return soon.”
Emine Erdoğan also reviewed artwork created by students, depicting their impressions of Turkey, and engaged in heartfelt conversations about their dreams and inspirations.
A Message of Brotherhood
In a social media post following her visit, Emine Erdoğan reflected on the deep-rooted friendship between Turkey and Indonesia:
“As part of our official visit, I visited the Yunus Emre Institute in Jakarta, Indonesia. While we celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Turkey and Indonesia this year, we are also witnessing the legacy of a friendship that dates back to the 16th century. I was delighted to meet the young students learning Turkish at the Yunus Emre Institute, one of the most important bridges carrying this legacy into the future. Their enthusiasm for learning and their love for Turkey are a beautiful reflection of the strong bond between our peoples. At the Ottoman-Indonesia Archival Documents Exhibition, I examined documents that remind us of the profound friendship between our two nations. I hope that the brotherhood between Turkey and Indonesia continues for many years to come.”
Traditional Touch
During her visit, Emine Erdoğan chose to wear a traditional Indonesian Batik-patterned outfit, symbolizing cultural respect and unity.
The students bid farewell to the First Lady with warm words, saying, “We hope to welcome you again.”
Emine Erdoğan’s visit underscored the enduring cultural and historical ties between Turkey and Indonesia, highlighting the role of education and cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral relations.
