Osaka, Japan — Indonesia has achieved international recognition at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, securing a Silver Award for Pavilion Design in the Exhibition Design category for self‑built pavilions larger than 1,500 m². The award, granted by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), underscores Indonesia’s ability to combine cultural heritage with forward‑looking innovation on the global stage.
The Indonesia Pavilion, designed by architect Raden Bagus Diwangkoro, drew inspiration from the iconic Phinisi sailing ship, a symbol of the nation’s maritime identity. Its towering sail‑like structure embodied the theme “Thriving in Harmony: Nature, Culture, Future”, reflecting Indonesia’s vision of balancing tradition, sustainability, and technological progress.
Global Impact and Visitor Engagement
Over the six‑month exposition, the pavilion attracted 3.5 million visitors, accounting for nearly 10 percent of total Expo attendance. This strong engagement positioned Indonesia as one of the most visited and talked‑about participants, reinforcing its role as a cultural and economic hub in Asia.
Strategic Significance
- Cultural Diplomacy: The award highlights Indonesia’s ability to project soft power through design, storytelling, and cultural expression.
- Creative Economy: The pavilion showcased contributions from fashion, crafts, performing arts, and digital innovation, aligning with Indonesia’s broader creative economy agenda.
- National Branding: By integrating maritime heritage with sustainable design, Indonesia strengthened its global image as a nation rooted in tradition yet committed to future innovation.
Official Recognition
President Prabowo Subianto visited the pavilion in September 2025, praising it as a symbol of Indonesia’s maritime spirit and cultural diversity. The award itself was announced just before the Expo’s closing, marking a celebratory conclusion to Indonesia’s participation.
Looking Ahead
The Silver Award is more than a design accolade—it is a strategic milestone in Indonesia’s international engagement. It demonstrates how cultural heritage, when combined with innovation and sustainability, can serve as a powerful tool for diplomacy, investment attraction, and global collaboration.
