The Fairmont Jakarta was transformed into a snowy dreamscape for one dazzling evening as the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta and the Mission of Canada to ASEAN hosted the Canada Day 2025 Winterfest Reception. But don’t let the chill theme fool you—this was one of the warmest, most spirited gatherings of the year.

With snow-inspired décor and a vibe that screamed both elegance and inclusion, the reception brought together diplomats, top Indonesian officials, and regional leaders in a shared celebration of Canada’s 158th year. Among them were notable guests like Coordinating Minister Pratikno, Minister Widiyanti Putri, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn—each lending their voice to celebrate the growing ties between Canada and Southeast Asia.

Yet the evening wasn’t just about speeches and handshakes—it was a full-on cultural and culinary experience.

A Feast Fit for a Winter King (in the Tropics)

The Winterfest theme extended to an extraordinary spread of Canadian-inspired cuisine, thoughtfully curated for the occasion. Guests were treated to a lavish seafood station featuring ice-chilled lobsters and scallops, perfectly accompanied by slices of fresh lemon.

Warm dishes stole the spotlight as steaming soups were ladled into porcelain cups, adding cozy comfort to the cool-toned ambiance. A carving station offered juicy, tender cuts of slow-roasted beef, sliced on the spot for guests craving bold, hearty flavors.

No winter feast would be complete without a sweet ending—and this one delivered. Dozens of bowls of creamy brûlée, topped with powdered sugar and garnished with raspberries and whipped cream, added a final flourish to the elegant buffet. Crisp buttery toast slices stood nearby, waiting to be paired with the desserts or enjoyed on their own.

It wasn’t just a meal—it was a multisensory statement of hospitality and harmony, bringing together traditional Canadian warmth and Southeast Asian celebration.

Diplomacy Meets Gen Z Energy

In his heartfelt remarks, Dr. Kao emphasized the strength of ASEAN-Canada relations, tracing a history of partnership that spans nearly five decades. He spotlighted recent achievements such as the Strategic Partnership upgrade in 2023 and a booming US$23.48 billion trade relationship in 2024.

But the real headline for young attendees? Opportunities on the horizon. Dr. Kao highlighted the upcoming Canada-ASEAN Business Forum 2025 in Kuala Lumpur—a golden opportunity for youth, entrepreneurs, and innovators to shape the next chapter of this partnership.

With values like inclusivity, diversity, and mutual respect at the heart of both Canada and ASEAN’s missions, the message was loud and clear: Young people matter. Their voice, their innovation, and their leadership are essential to building a better, more connected future.

The Bottom Line:
From lobsters to diplomacy, from crème brûlée to climate cooperation—the Canada Day 2025 Winterfest in Jakarta wasn’t just a party. It was a statement.

One night. One celebration. Endless potential for global youth.