Aceh Utara, Universitas Malikussaleh — A joint cultural session titled Joint Cultural Session was successfully held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, from 08:30 to 10:45 WIB. This event brought together Malikussaleh University, North Aceh, and The Pannasastra University of Cambodia in an interactive discussion aimed at exchanging cultures and strengthening international relations.
Through the Google Meet platform, the event was led by Teuku Azhari, an English lecturer from the Chemical Engineering Program at the Faculty of Engineering, Malikussaleh University, along with Lay Naery, an English lecturer from The Pannasastra University of Cambodia. A total of 43 participants from both universities actively took part in the session, which featured presentations and in-depth discussions.
The event began with presentations from student representatives. The presentations started with Cambodia, followed by Malikussaleh University. Students from the Chemical Engineering Program presented two topics introducing the unique foods and regions of Indonesia. The topics presented were:
Traditional Indonesian Cuisine: Presented by Galang Dwi Nugroho, Aisyha Raniya Gocie, Aulia Azizia, and M. Afif Al Ikhsan Lubis. They showcased various traditional dishes from the archipelago, such as rendang, satay, and fried rice, while explaining the cultural values associated with Indonesian cuisine. Landmarks of Indonesia: This presentation was led by Rika Desi Ananda and Syarifah Najwa, who introduced famous icons such as the Borobudur Temple, the National Monument (Monas), and Lake Toba.
From The Pannasastra University of Cambodia, students presented four topics covering four interesting subjects:
Indonesian Culture: A presentation showcasing the diversity of Indonesia's culture. Cambodian Culture: A depiction of Cambodia's unique traditions, including Apsara dance and Khmer traditional clothing. Landmarks of Cambodia: Students discussed iconic sites such as Angkor Wat and the Royal Palace of Phnom Penh. Life of Nuns in Pagodas: A detailed explanation of the spiritual life of nuns in Cambodian pagodas, which are an important part of the country's culture.
This activity was not only aimed at cultural exchange but also at enhancing students' English-speaking skills. According to Teuku Azhari, this Joint Cultural Session is an effective medium to increase social awareness between countries. "In addition to practicing speaking skills, this event also helps students understand the importance of cultural tolerance," he said.
Lay Naery, a co-initiator from The Pannasastra University of Cambodia, also emphasized that this program could strengthen international relations. "Through this cultural exchange, students not only learn about other countries but also build a deeper sense of mutual respect," she said.
Throughout the event, the atmosphere was interactive and lively. Students from both universities actively participated in a Q&A session that delved deeper into the presentations. One participant from Malikussaleh University shared that the event was a valuable experience. "I learned a lot, not just about Cambodian culture but also about how to convey ideas in English," said one participant.
This event is hoped to be the beginning of closer collaboration between Malikussaleh University and The Pannasastra University of Cambodia. With a focus on academic and cultural cooperation, both universities hope that this program can become a regular agenda that provides long-term benefits for students and institutions.
Through this Joint Cultural Session, both universities have demonstrated how technology and education can be used to create more inclusive and tolerant relationships amidst cultural differences. This event stands as a tangible proof that cross-border collaboration can enrich the perspectives of the younger generation and build a more harmonious world. (NZA)
