Indonesian Embassy Launches Taste Certificate Initiative to Encourage Indonesian Gastrodiplomacy in Cambodia

The Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the Kingdom of Cambodia, Dr. Santo Darmosumarto, officially launched the ‘Duta Rasa Nusantara’ Certificate, otherwise known as the ‘Ambassador of Indonesian Taste Certificate’, on February 19, 2026.

Duta Rasa Nusantara is the Embassy’s new initiative in 2026 to encourage Indonesian gastrodiplomacy in Cambodia. The certificate is awarded towards Indonesian restaurants in Cambodia for their active role in promoting Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage through serving Indonesian cuisine with authentic recipes and taste.

“Duta Rasa Nusantara is a recognition towards the important role that Indonesian restaurants have in Cambodia, by introducing authentic Indonesian cuisine to locals and foreigners in Cambodia”, said Ambassador Santo in his opening speech. The launch event was attended by a number of foreign ambassadors and Cambodian businesspeople.

Markus Dwinanta, the owner of Indonesian restaurant ‘Resto Somatera’ in Toul Tompoung, Phnom Penh, was selected as the first awardee of Duta Rasa Nusantara. Resto Somatera has been known to serve authentic Indonesian cuisine from diverse parts of Indonesia for almost 17 years. The establishment is also known for sharing culinary experiences and authentic Indonesian recipes with local youth. Four former employees have even opened their own culinary businesses.

Besides supporting Indonesian gastrodiplomacy, in order for Indonesian cuisine to become more familiar and enjoyed by the Cambodian people, Duta Rasa Nusantara can also be perceived as an initiative relevant to the Cambodian government’s recent agenda in developing Muslim-friendly tourism. 

The growing presence of Indonesian culinary establishments in many parts of Cambodia, with most known to serve halal dishes, would reflect an image of Cambodia as a welcoming and friendly tourist destination for Muslims, including Indonesian tourists. Currently, there are approximately 400 Indonesian culinary establishments located throughout Cambodia..

“As Cambodia sees growth in tourism visits from Muslim countries, this initiative would support the government’s efforts in promoting the halal culinary industry, at the same time," noted Ambassador Santo. “Indonesian cuisine can be a bridge to strengthening the friendship between the Indonesian and Cambodian people.”

In the near future, the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh will curate a list of recommended Indonesian restaurants serving dishes with authentic recipes and taste, which can be used as a reference for those looking for Indonesian cuisine while in Cambodia.

This press release was supplied.