PHNOM PENH: The Indonesian Night Market, known locally as Phsaar Reatrei Indonesia, is set to return to Phnom Penh this weekend, bringing a vibrant showcase of culture, cuisine and commerce while reinforcing growing ties between Cambodia and Indonesia.
Organised by the Indonesian embassy, the two-day event will take place on April 25–26 along Chaktomuk Walk Street, the capital’s popular riverside cultural hub.
The market follows a successful run last year that drew large crowds and highlighted Indonesia’s cultural diversity to Cambodian audiences.
Positioned as one of the embassy’s flagship initiatives, the event combines cultural promotion with economic outreach.
“Visitors can expect a wide array of Indonesian street food, traditional dishes, batik textiles and consumer products, alongside live performances featuring music and dance from across the Indonesian archipelago,” according to the embassy.
This year’s programme includes appearances by Indonesian dangdut singer Fire Amanda, DJ Osvaldo Nugroho, Cambodia-based Indonesian jazz vocalist Intan Andriana and local performers the Crazy Mix Band.
Cultural showcases are expected to run throughout both evenings, transforming the riverside into a lively cross-cultural space.
A highlight of this year’s event will be the awarding of “Duta Rasa Nusantara” certificates to two Indonesian restaurants operating in Cambodia.
The recognition is intended to honour their role in preserving and promoting authentic Indonesian cuisine abroad, reflecting a broader effort to strengthen culinary diplomacy.
Beyond entertainment, the night market underscores expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.
According to figures released by the Indonesian Embassy, Indonesia recorded a 6.6 per cent year-on-year increase in exports to Cambodia in the first quarter of 2026, reaching US$274.9 million and positioning Indonesia as Cambodia’s ninth-largest trading partner.
Key Indonesian exports to Cambodia include coal, cigarettes, instant noodles and pasta products, motorcycles and pharmaceuticals — sectors that continue to anchor bilateral trade growth.
Tourism exchanges have also shown steady momentum. More than 50,000 Indonesian tourists visited Cambodia last year, while nearly 11,000 Cambodians travelled to Indonesia, reflecting a gradual recovery and expansion of regional travel.
The embassy noted that the return of Phsaar Reatrei Indonesia is intended not only to celebrate Indonesian heritage but also to serve as a platform for strengthening people-to-people connections and economic engagement.
“Phsaar Reatrei Indonesia symbolises the strong bonds of cooperation between Indonesia and Cambodia,” it said, adding that such initiatives demonstrate the resilience and collaboration of both nations amid evolving global challenges.
The choice of Chaktomuk Walk Street as the venue reflects Phnom Penh’s growing reputation as a dynamic and multicultural destination.
In recent years, the riverside area has become a focal point for weekend markets, festivals and public events, attracting both residents and tourists.
As Cambodia continues to position itself as an open and culturally diverse tourism hub, events like the Indonesian Night Market play an increasingly important role in bridging cultural exchange with economic opportunity.
With expectations of larger crowds this year, organisers say the event will further enhance visibility for Indonesian products and experiences, while offering Phnom Penh residents and visitors a festive glimpse into the richness of Nusantara culture. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
