Makassar (ANTARA) - The International Office (IO) of Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) proudly held the 8th International Cultural Program (ICP) from 26 July to 2 August 2025.
This year’s ICP gathered 55 participants from 25 countries, representing diverse regions including Africa (Zimbabwe, Malawi, Sudan, South Sudan, Tanzania, Gambia, and others), the Middle East (Syria, Yemen, Jordan), and Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Timor Leste, and Indonesia).
The opening ceremony was officially led by the Rector of UNHAS, Prof. Dr. Jamaluddin Jompa, M.Sc., affectionately known as Prof. JJ. He was accompanied by the Head of the International Office, Dr. Andi Masyitha Irwan, and the Secretary of the Institute of Research and Community Development, Prof. Suherman Hamzah, Ph.D. In his opening speech, Prof. JJ emphasized the essential role of the younger generation in preserving both culture and the environment—highlighting the relevance of this year’s theme: “Exploring South Sulawesi Maritime Culture.”
The ICP was divided into two major components: classroom sessions and a field trip to the Center for Environmental Education (PPLH) in Puntondo Village, located in Takalar Regency. The classroom sessions provided participants with rich insights into various aspects of local traditions and practices.
These included an introduction to UNHAS, topics on unity in diversity, Indonesian maritime culture, fishermen culture in Takalar, the Bugis and Makassar communities and their historical links to other countries, traditional values, South Sulawesi traditional dances, the traditional music instrument Kacaping, and culinary practices within the Bugis and Makassar communities. Each session was designed to be interactive and engaging, allowing participants to explore culture through discussion and hands-on experiences.
The field trip to Puntondo aimed to give participants a closer look at three essential aspects of local maritime culture: seaweed cultivation, the livelihood of fishermen in coastal villages, and the traditional fishing method known as Bagan—bamboo fishing platforms built in the middle of the ocean.
Participants also explored the environmental aspects of the region, including mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and seaweed ecosystems. To complete the experience, the group enjoyed snorkeling in the clear coastal waters of Puntondo.
One day before the closing of the program, the participants enjoyed a Makassar city tour. They explored the city’s rich heritage by visiting historical sites such as Fort Rotterdam, the Center Point of Indonesia (CPI), and Somba Opu Shopping Center, where they had the chance to purchase local souvenirs.
On the opening day, participants also enjoyed sailing aboard a Phinisi boat while dining under the stars in an event hosted by the Mayor of Makassar, Munafri Arifuddin, SH. The boat trip offered scenic views of the Makassar Strait and a glimpse of the vibrant city nightlife, creating a memorable start to their cultural journey.
The program officially concluded with a farewell party on 1 August 2025 at the UNHAS Hotel and Convention Center. The event featured closing remarks from Prof. Ir. Sumbangan Baja, M.Phil., Ph.D., who warmly greeted participants based on their country of origin.
He emphasized that while the program had come to an end, the spirit of togetherness and shared experience would continue to live in the hearts of all who took part. The farewell party also included the announcement of the best group presentation, which was awarded to the Bagan Group.
A representative group of participants gave a captivating stage performance of the Four Ethnic Dance, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. The evening concluded with a photo session alongside the UNHAS Secretary, the IO Squad Team, and the IO Student Volunteers, capturing the joyful spirit of the program.
As the participants departed Makassar, they left not only with souvenirs in hand, but with lasting memories, deeper cultural appreciation, and strong friendships that crossed borders. The 8th International Cultural Program truly embodied the values of cultural exchange, learning, and unity in diversity. Safe flight home, everyone. (*/Inf)
