Haile Selassie I in Indonesia: Lion of Judah in the Islands of Freedom

“Wherever men seek justice and freedom, Ethiopia shall walk beside them.” — H.I.M. Haile Selassie I

Date of Visit: July 1958

Locations: Jakarta, Yogyakarta
Welcomed by: President Sukarno
Purpose: Strengthen Afro-Asian alliance, deepen post-Bandung ties, promote peace and decolonization

Background: Post-Bandung Spirit

This visit was part of a series of strategic outreach efforts following the historic 1955 Bandung Conference, hosted by Indonesia. Ethiopia was one of the African nations represented there.

Both Ethiopia and Indonesia:

Had fought colonial powers
Stood as symbols of resistance and independence
Were leaders in the Non-Aligned Movement, aiming to unite Asia and Africa without siding with Cold War powers

Highlights of the Visit

1. State Welcome in Jakarta

A grand reception greeted Haile Selassie at Merdeka Palace.
President Sukarno referred to him as a “spiritual and royal leader” of Africa and praised Ethiopia’s historic resistance to colonialism.
Discussions included:
- Cultural diplomacy
- African-Asian solidarity
- Joint efforts for world peace

2. Visit to Yogyakarta

The Emperor visited the spiritual and historical city of Yogyakarta, meeting with intellectuals and visiting cultural landmarks such as Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple.
This stop symbolized the Emperor’s deep respect for intercultural and interfaith heritage.

3. University Visit & Youth Engagement

Haile Selassie spoke to students about:
- The power of youth in shaping post-colonial nations
- The importance of education and science
- The spiritual unity of the global South

“Indonesia and Ethiopia are ancient in soul and youthful in spirit,”
— H.I.M. to Indonesian students

Diplomatic Outcomes

Signed agreements on:
- Cultural exchange programs
- Educational scholarships for Ethiopian students
- Economic cooperation and mutual support in the United Nations
Indonesia supported Ethiopia’s efforts at the OAU (Organization of African Unity) and voiced solidarity on Pan-African matters.

Symbolism and Legacy

The visit cemented Ethiopia’s role as a bridge between Africa and Asia.
For many Indonesians, the Emperor’s visit affirmed the dignity and global presence of African leadership.
It marked a moment where ancient monarchic Ethiopia and newly free Indonesia embraced each other with mutual reverence.

Archives and Footage

Photos and potential footage may be found via:

Arsip Nasional Republik Indonesia (National Archives of Indonesia)
Ethiopian National Archives
Indonesian newspapers such as Harian Merdeka and Antara News