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Monas was chosen to host the ISF gala dinner because it has high historical value for Indonesian independence. (Photo : Setwapres) - 

VOInews, Jakarta : Hundreds of delegates participating in the 2024 International Sustainability Forum (ISF) from various corners of the world will have their eyes and tongues pampered with food taste and visual experiences at the Gala Dinner which will be held at the National Monument (Monas), Jakarta on Thursday (5/9) evening.

"Monas was chosen as the venue for the dinner for ISF's special guests because this monument reflects the noble values ​​of the history of Indonesia's revival which is the driving force for the spirit of collaboration that the ISF event fosters," said Deputy for Infrastructure and Transportation Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Rachmat Kaimuddin.

Rahmat added, currently the world needs a more real spirit of collaboration to realize various actions and innovations with the hope that this will be realized at ISF 2024.

While enjoying the meal, guests were pampered with visual attractions on the towering walls of Monas. The combination of modern technology with historical buildings was an unforgettable experience for the 500 VIP guests who attended the dinner which was attended by the Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia KH Ma'ruf Amin.

The taste experience of the various food menus served is also an opportunity for Indonesia to carry out gastrodiplomacy.

"By treating the delegates with various special foods such as Salted Egg Breadfruit and Rawon, this is our way of introducing our culinary delights to the whole world," added Rahmat.

The dinner banquet at ISF 2024 opened with a variety of menus including:
Opener: Nusantara Platter

1. Chicken Satay: This iconic dish originating from the Javanese street culinary frenzy has now gone global, becoming a proud ambassador of Indonesian taste.
2. Salted Egg Breadfruit: A unique combination of breadfruit, which has been an important part of Indonesian cuisine for centuries, with salted eggs produced by local producers in Brebes, Central Java.
3. Otak-Otak: This seafood dish wrapped in banana leaves showcases the diversity of Indonesian spices, with each region having its own unique version.
4. Stir-fried Zucchini: A refreshing light dish, showcasing local vegetable cooking skills with a modern twist.

Main Dish: Rawon
Beef cooked with East Javanese kluwak spices was the main star of the evening. Its dark black color holds the secret to a deep and rich taste, representing the depth of Indonesian culinary culture.

Closing: Pandan Entremet
Inspired by the West Javanese specialty Es Teler, this dessert features pandan cream which is very familiar to Indonesian taste buds. The combination of white chocolate and pandan creates a refreshing sweet harmony, closing the meal perfectly.

This dinner wasn't just about the food. It is a cultural statement as well as an invitation to dive into the rich flavors of Indonesia. In the midst of discussions about global sustainability, guests were invited to experience sustainability firsthand in the Indonesian culinary context.

How tradition and innovation can go hand in hand, creating dishes that are not only delicious, but also full of meaning.

As world leaders gather to discuss the future of the world, they will be reminded with every bite that sustainability is not just about technology and policy, but also about preserving the cultural and culinary heritage that has for centuries enriched our civilization//VOI