Jakarta – The first Indonesia International Islamic Fair was held on May 9 through May 11 at Balai Kartini, Jakarta, bridging the gap between diverse Islamic cultures from all over the world.

The Indonesia International Islamic Fair (IIIF) was inaugurated by event initiator, Anna Mariana, along with her husband Tjokorda Kusumayudha, celebrity cleric Yusuf Mansur, and representatives from Palestine, Kuwait and Lebanon.

The fair aimed to introduce Islamic cultures and views to the world through fashion shows, talk shows, competitions, a bazaar, a food exhibition and other cultural attractions.

"We're showcasing all the best products that are ready to enter the global market. There are nine Middle Eastern countries directly involved with this event that are presenting their products," Anna said at the event on Friday.

"The representatives and the buyers will meet in a Business-to-Business and Business-to-Consumer gathering which will be held on May 10 and 11," she added.

In the opening fashion show, Anna presented 60 of her best works that are Moroccan-themed.

"All of my best works came from the brand under House of Marsya by Anna Mariana. There's Anna & Co, Marsya & Co which is women-only attire, and men-only RMD Collection. They are all luxurious, international class, and good for adults and millennials. There's a strong sense of national pride woven into each and every design," Anna said.

The IIIF 2019 was fully supported by the government bodies, embassies, and businesses involved. Among them were the Ministry of Religion, Ministry of Tourism, Jakarta city government, South Tangerang city government, the Saudi Arabian embassy, Turkish embassy, Middle Eastern Trade Chamber, Indonesia Mosque Council and the Indonesia Traditional Textile Community.

Anna said that she takes great pride in the success of this event, and that this is Indonesia's first step, adding that plans to organize another event next year.

"God willing, we will hold another event next year, bigger and better," she said.

– Suara Pembaruan and Jakarta Globe

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/culture/first-international-islamic-fair-bridges-diverse-islamic-cultures