Read this in The Manila Times digital edition.
Mallgoers had the rare opportunity to get a glimpse of Indonesia’s rich culture, food, and lifestyle during the recent Indonesia Trade Expo at the Event Center of SM Megamall.
Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo (center) with SM Senior Vice President Millie Dizon (third from right), SM President Steven Tan (second from right) and AVP for Operation Christian Mathay (leftmost), together with Indonesian Embassy in Manila Minister Counsellor Kusuma Pradopo, Charge d’affaires Widya Rahmanto, and Trade Attaché Martin Pandapotan
A joint project of the Indonesian Embassy in Manila and G20 Indonesia, in partnership with Bank Indonesia and SM, the event was held just in time for the celebration of the 77th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia. It aimed to introduce and to strengthen the awareness of Indonesian products to Filipino consumers — fashion and personal care items, handicrafts, and food and beverage products.
Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo led the opening ceremony. Indonesian Embassy Minister Counsellor Kusuma Pradopo, Charge d’affaires Widya Rahmanto, Trade Attache Martin Pandapotan, SM representatives, and diplomats from other embassies were also present during the trade fair.
During the three-day exposition, nearly 20 Indonesian companies featured their international and locally available products. Indonesian restaurant, Bakmi Nyonya, offered authentic Indonesian dishes such as Nasi Goreng and chicken satay. Milkita candies from United Family Food Phil., Inc., Richeese and Richoco Big Rolls wafer from Enerlife Philippines, Inc./Linkage Food, and Marie Duo biscuits from Makarios Philippines were among the crowd favorites. Popular Indonesian coffee brand Kopiko and cereal mix Energen from PT. Mayora were highlighted, as well as Thai Milk Tea and Thai Milk Coffee of Ichitan Indonesia. Aice Ice Cream also got their following during the expo.
Alfamart Philippines, a joint venture between the SM Group and PT Sumber Alfaria Trijaya Tbk (Alfamart Indonesia) likewise showcased their grocery items.
Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo (center) with SM Senior Vice President Millie Dizon (third from right), SM President Steven Tan (second from right) and AVP for Operation Christian Mathay (leftmost), together with Indonesian Embassy in Manila Minister Counsellor Kusuma Pradopo, Charge d’affaires Widya Rahmanto, and Trade Attaché Martin Pandapotan
Shoppers also got the chance to try Bawang Goreng or crispy fried shallots, Tempe (soybean) Chips, and Cassava Chips from One Food under Bank Indonesia, as well as took home varieties of Sasa Seasoned Flour and Sasa Coconut cream powder from Rodamas Inti Internasional. Meanwhile, PT. Indofood CBP. sold packs of their famous Indomie Instant Noodles.
Tanivest Group under Bank Indonesia also showed how style could be sustainable with upcycled accessories such as necklaces made from tire, as well as watches and home decors made from bamboo. Ethnic Home Furnishing was a favorite among home enthusiasts with its collection of teak furniture and exquisite Balinese décor from the islands of Indonesia.
Indonesian health and wellness and personal care products were also highlighted during the fair. These included beauty products from Chrizlyn Joy Beauty & Wellness, herbal supplements from Glorius Dexa Medica PH, one of Indonesia’s largest pharmaceutical companies; food supplements like syrup Lola Remedios, Ellips Cologne and Ellips Hair Vitamin from Kino Consumer, and Diabetasol and Entrasol from PT Kalbe Farma Tbk.
The event also featured a cooking demo by Rodamas Inti Internasional using their signature seasoning products. The Indonesian Embassy staff also led cultural dances and promo games which the mallgoers enjoyed.
