UPAYA DIPLOMASI BUDAYA INDONESIA TERHADAP JEPANG MELALUI RUMAH BUDAYA INDONESIA (RBI) 2017-2023

This study aims to analyze how the Rumah Budaya Indonesia (RBI) utilizes workshops as a medium of cultural diplomacy to introduce Indonesian culture to the Japanese public. The main focus of this research is to understand the implementation of the workshops and evaluate the impact and success of these activities in strengthening cultural ties between Indonesia and Japan. The method used in this study is qualitative descriptive, involving data collection through documentation, interviews, and literature analysis related to RBI's workshop programs. It employs Milton C. Cummings' concept of cultural diplomacy, based on three key factors. The results show that workshops organized by RBI, such as Gamelan Workshops, Balinese Dance Workshops, and Tea, Coffee, and Jamu Workshops, successfully attracted the interest of the Japanese public to learn more about Indonesian culture. Additionally, the Indonesian Language Workshop for teachers in Japan contributed to expanding the use of the Indonesian language among the Japanese community. Moreover, RBI adapted during the pandemic by holding online workshops, such as the Tempe and Pakarena Dance Workshops, which continued to capture public attention and participation. In conclusion, the workshop programs organized by Rumah Budaya Indonesia from 2017 to 2023 have proven to be effective tools of cultural diplomacy. Through various interactive activities, RBI successfully introduced diverse aspects of Indonesian culture, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of the Japanese public toward Indonesia, thereby strengthening bilateral relations.