Sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from the unexpected. For Sebastian Dittmer Isbye, a student of Copenhagen Business School, it was when he held a bow and tried archery for the first time at the Prambanan Temple complex. This experience indeed could not be found in his home country, Denmark.
Amid the Global Summer Week (GSW) 2025 program organized by the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM), this activity for Damian became more than just a game, but a bridge to more Indonesian culture. Damian said he was happy when he visited Indonesia because he could learn the culture firsthand. Although he initially felt culture shock, it did not take long for him to adjust after mingling with other GSW participants.
“It was great to get to know Indonesian culture, and I am grateful for this opportunity. This program encourages me to open up and interact with friends I haven’t met before,” she explained on Wednesday (16/7/2025) on the sidelines of Cultural and Outbound Activities at Prambanan Temple, along with 56 other students from eight universities in nine countries worldwide.
The visit to Prambanan Temple was a special moment for GSW participants who got a cross-cultural learning experience with warm togetherness. This activity triggered a deeper intimacy between participants.
Megat Raimi bin Hezree Azwan, a Malaysian student studying at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, revealed that his visit to Indonesia was his first experience. He felt happy to meet many new people and get to know the local culture, which, according to him, is unique to Malaysia and New Zealand. He also considered Indonesian people more open and friendly, making it easier for him to make friends.
For Megat, this was an insightful trip and an emotional connection with Indonesian culture. Initially, she was motivated to join the program to earn college credits easily. As it turned out, she got more than that.
“I got much more valuable experiences, such as learning new cultures and making friends across countries,” he said.
Nurul Natasha binti Ismayudin made a similar statement from the University of Canterbury. It was also her first time visiting Indonesia. She was looking forward to exploring the Prambanan Temple complex. She also expressed her amazement when she learned that the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia is still actively used for prayer activities.
“When I learned about its history, I didn’t realize that such a beautiful building had been affected by the 2006 earthquake and was damaged. The art is extraordinary. Even so, the art in the temple is extraordinary and has an interesting philosophy,” he explained.
Report by: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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