Gabalandhurra Concert: A Night of Cultural Collaboration at Soehanna Hall

On April 30, 2025, music lovers gathered at Soehanna Hall in Jakarta for the Gabalandhurra Concert—a cross-cultural performance that beautifully celebrated the long-standing ties between Australia and Indonesia.

The concert was organized by the Australian Embassy in Indonesia and featured an extraordinary trio: Ngulmiya Nundhirribala, a Yolngu songman from Arnhem Land; Ananda Sukarlan, one of Indonesia’s most celebrated pianist-composers; and Mariska Setiawan, a renowned soprano with a strong passion for modern classical music.

The evening was more than just a musical showcase—it was a deeply emotional expression of identity, history, and connection between nations. The name “Gabalandhurra” itself comes from the Wubuy language and refers to the act of “uniting and walking together,” which perfectly reflected the spirit of the performance.

Blending Traditional and Classical Sounds

Ngulmiya opened the concert with traditional Wubuy songs passed down through generations in his community of Numbulwar, Northern Territory. The room fell into a reverent silence as the ancient rhythms, unfamiliar yet deeply moving, echoed through the hall.

One of the highlights of the evening was Bora Ring, a new composition co-created with Ananda Sukarlan. Inspired by the poetry of Judith Wright, a respected Australian poet and environmentalist, the piece fused Aboriginal songlines with classical music traditions. The haunting sounds of the didgeridoo blended seamlessly with Sukarlan’s expressive piano and Setiawan’s soaring soprano vocals, creating a performance that felt both grounded in the earth and elevated beyond borders.

Shared Roots: Aboriginal and Makassan Heritage

Ngulmiya’s performance also highlighted his unique heritage—he is of both Aboriginal and Makassan descent. This dual identity came to life through songs that incorporated Bugis and Makassar languages, paying tribute to the centuries-old connection between northern Australia and South Sulawesi. Long before colonization, Makassan traders sailed to Arnhem Land to fish for trepang, leaving behind cultural and linguistic traces that remain today.

“Bringing the music from our small village to Jakarta and performing for our Indonesian brothers and sisters is something we are proud of,” Ngulmiya said, visibly moved. His pride in carrying his culture across the sea was met with enthusiastic applause and heartfelt appreciation from the Indonesian audience.

Support from Leaders and Artists

The event was attended by both cultural leaders and government officials who underscored the significance of this collaboration. Gita Kamath, Australia’s Chargé d’Affaires to Indonesia, praised the concert as a shining example of cultural diplomacy.
“Traditional and classical music collaborations like this are powerful ways to celebrate our shared history and the strong friendship between our countries,” she said.

Giring Ganesha, Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy and a former rock vocalist, echoed the sentiment. Reflecting on his own journey in music, he emphasized how art transcends politics and language. “Music unites, heals, and crosses boundaries,” he said during a brief address after the concert. His words served as a reminder that in uncertain times, cultural exchange becomes even more important.

A Continued Journey Through Indonesia

Ngulmiya’s journey didn’t end in Jakarta. Supported by the Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program, he will continue his tour in Makassar and Bali, where he will further engage with local communities, musicians, and artists. These visits are not just about performance—they’re about building friendships, sharing knowledge, and celebrating the rich histories that connect Australia and Indonesia.

As the night ended, it was clear that the Gabalandhurra Concert had done more than entertain. It had created a space for listening, reflection, and mutual respect. Through music, it reminded both nations of their shared past—and the beautiful possibilities of walking forward together.

*Sources: Liputan 6, Australian Embassy

*Photo: Instagram Kzr Draco