Montréal. Indonesia celebrated its 75-year presence in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) with a diplomatic reception at the agency’s headquarters on Wednesday as part of the country’s upcoming 80th Independence Day festivities.

The event drew around 200 attendees, including members of the diplomatic corps, permanent representatives to ICAO, aviation stakeholders, international partners, and Indonesian diaspora in Montréal.

Speakers included Capt. Sigit Hani Hadiyanto, Aviation Security at the Transportation Ministry Director Ottawa Ambassador Muhsin Syihab, who also serves as Indonesia’s Permanent Representative to ICAO and ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano.

Capt. Sigit highlighted Indonesia’s long-standing collaboration with ICAO, noting that the organization has been “a partner in shaping civil aviation policies and standards, where member states work together toward safer and more sustainable skies.”

Ambassador Muhsin underscored Indonesia’s early engagement with ICAO, joining in 1950, just five years after independence, and the country’s continuous reforms in its aviation sector. Indonesia, he said, remains committed to contributing to ICAO discussions and adapting to global aviation developments.

ICAO Council President Sciacchitano acknowledged Indonesia’s unique scale as an archipelagic nation, saying aviation plays a crucial role in national development. He cited projections from international aviation bodies, including Airports Council International (ACI), that expect Indonesia to become the world’s fourth-largest air passenger market between 2036 and 2040.

The reception also highlighted Indonesia’s aviation achievements, from managing one of the largest airspaces in the Asia-Pacific to becoming the only Southeast Asian country with aircraft manufacturing capabilities. Indonesia’s aviation safety and security audit scores have surpassed global averages, while its development of a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) ecosystem supports global emission-reduction efforts.

Guests were also treated to Indonesian culinary specialties and a Balinese dance accompanied by the Gamelan Bali Giri Kedaton ensemble, a cultural showcase that added warmth and color to the evening. The celebration reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening global cooperation and advancing sustainable, competitive, and secure international aviation.