SBM ITB introduced international students to the warmth of local culture through a cultural trip to Margamulya Tourism Village in Pasirjambu, Bandung Regency (February 7th). The trip was attended by international students from various countries, including France, India, Germany, South Korea, Brunei, and the Netherlands, as an initial experience of West Javanese culture before officially starting their studies.
This trip is supported by the EQUITY World Class University program at the Bandung Institute of Technology. The program aims to provide a comprehensive learning experience that integrates academic, industrial, and cultural aspects of Indonesia, ensuring that students learn beyond the classroom.
“We hope that students will not only gain knowledge from lectures, but also have meaningful experiences and insights through direct interaction with local communities and culture,” said Sarah Ismullah, Head of the Cultural Trip Committee.
The trip to the village was a key part of this experience. Upon arriving at the Lusman Ciwidey Rest Area, the students continued their journey in a traditional odong-odong (horse-drawn carriage), enjoying the beautiful natural scenery of Ciwidey. Throughout the journey, Kak Alfa, a tour guide from GAYA and a staff member of the Margamulya Tourism Village, shared stories about the area’s history, natural conditions, and various interesting facts about Ciwidey.
Upon arrival at the village, the students were warmly welcomed by the Head of the Margamulya Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes), Wawan, and the Head of Margamulya Village, Dede Odih. As a warm welcome, each student received a small bottle of bajigur, a traditional Sundanese drink.
“I hope you are inspired by our community and that your experiences in this village will be memorable and leave a lasting impression,” said Wawan.
The students were divided into two groups, each led by a tour guide. They took a walk through the village area and the rice fields before reaching the location of the cultural event.
There, they learned the martial art of pencak silat and had the opportunity to try sisingaan, a traditional performance that involves lion-shaped props.
“This is the best experience I’ve had in a while,” said Jung, a student from South Korea. “It feels like I’m floating, like I’m constantly on a rollercoaster.”
The cultural experience continued with agricultural activities, including trying to plow a rice field with a water buffalo. For Vicky, a student from India, this was her first experience.
“This was an amazing experience for me,” he said.
Afterward, the students enjoyed lunch featuring local specialties. Jung named stir-fried genjer as her favorite, while Evam said that stir-fried tempeh was the most memorable dish.
During the next session, the students participated in traditional stilt games and archery. While many struggled with the stilts for the first time, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and enthusiasm. The activity concluded with a tasting of beubeutian, a variety of boiled or steamed tubers, and klepon, a favorite snack among the participants.
To conclude, the students were taken to a goat farm to learn how to milk goats. Despite initial difficulties, they eventually succeeded. The students even had the opportunity to sample fresh goat’s milk from residents, which was creamier than regular cow’s milk. Jung described the experience as truly unique. All participants then captured moments with the goat kids as mementos.
More than just a cultural visit, the trip to Margamulya Tourism Village became a space for sharing stories, learning, and cross-cultural connections, leaving the international students with valuable memories at the beginning of their journey with SBM ITB.
Written by Student Reporter (Nareswari Cetta Ardhani, Management 2027)
