Harmonious Blend of Cultural Immersion and Sightseeing in Jakarta

I was one of the 13 fortunate health students who embarked on a remarkable two-week study tour in Indonesia, graciously hosted by the prestigious Universitas Indonesia, the highest-ranked university in the country.

The stunning Kenanga Lake at Universitas Indonesia

The core of our study tour was an immersive experience in Indonesian culture and their healthcare system. We set off our journey by taking a tour of the campus with the hospitable local students and staff. The university campus was huge with lots of green spaces and a picturesque lake. Beam bikes were also conveniently placed campus-wide, and we couldn’t help but enjoy a playful ride, making our campus exploration even more enjoyable.

Visiting the mosque located within the campus

During our trip, we attended lectures about the country’s healthcare system and visited various community clinics and hospitals, where we had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals and volunteers in providing services to their local communities. Moreover, we embraced the challenge of learning Bahasa Indonesia and even tried our hands (or rather, our feet) at a traditional Indonesian dance, which we later presented on our final day. The dance was not just an exciting performance but also a reflection of the vibrant culture we were immersed in.

Beyond the academic and cultural aspects, we explored the enchanting attractions in Jakarta and the surrounding areas. We visited the Old Town, which had beautiful old buildings and museums, which transported us back in time to the Dutch colonial era. Furthermore, we ventured to Taman Mini, a renowned attraction in East Jakarta, where we had the privilege of witnessing a collection of traditional houses representing every province of the country, each showcasing its unique and captivating features. Our exploration also included visits to botanical gardens, famous mosques and national monuments.

Traditional houses, Taman Mini

In essence, my time in Indonesia was nothing short or remarkable. It offered a harmonious blend of cultural immersion and sightseeing, leaving a lasting imprint in my heart. But what truly made this experience unforgettable were the connections we forged. We didn’t just explore Indonesia; we explored it in the company of Indonesian students who became our friends and companions in adventure. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to those in pursuit of a memorable journey of exploration and learning.

Emmanuel Tapao
Faculty of Health
Faculty Led – Indonesia Study Tour at Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient