The SBM ITB organized a cultural trip to Mekarlaksana Village, Ciparay, Bandung Regency, for international students to learn about local agriculture and culture (15/2). The trip was attended by 22 foreign students from France, India, Brunei, England, and Germany. Before they began their studies, the program aimed to introduce international students to local traditions, particularly the culture surrounding Bandung.
“We hope that foreign students gain valuable insight into the local culture and meaningful experiences from this activity,” said Dr. Ira Fachira, Head of International Relations at SBM ITB.
Upon their arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by Village Head Jajang Suhardi, who expressed his gratitude to SBM ITB for organizing the visit.
“We hope this experience leaves a lasting impression on the students while showcasing our village’s potential,” said Jajang.
The day’s activities began with a trek through the Mandalawangi Mountains, where students were informed that they were on the border of East Bandung and Garut before arriving at the coffee plantation.
At the plantation, they were introduced to various coffee varieties, including Arabica, Robusta, and Bourbon, and had the opportunity to plant their coffee seeds. They then observed the coffee processing stages, from drying the beans, roasting them for 5–10 minutes, grinding them into powder, and finally tasting their freshly brewed coffee.
Next, the students visited a fighting sheep farm, crossing a small bamboo bridge to observe how the sheep were raised and trained. During this visit, they also enjoyed the village’s signature coffee milk.
After lunch, the students rode in an open-back truck to an art studio, waving to residents along the way. They watched an energetic Kuda Lumping dance performance by Medal Putra Keramat there.
“My first impression of this village is its incredible potential in agriculture, especially in coffee and chili cultivation, as well as traditional foods like Kecimpring chips. It feels like a hidden gem in Bandung,” said Mirru, an international student from Brunei Darussalam.
He found the experience of witnessing the coffee planting and grinding process particularly valuable, as coffee plants are rare in her country.
“The food here is delicious, but almost everything is spicy, so I couldn’t try everything,” said Kuiticho, a student from France.
Meanwhile, Yassine added that he doesn’t particularly like rice but thoroughly enjoyed perkedel.
“It tastes great, and the calories are similar to rice,” said Yassine.
This cultural trip gave students insight into local agriculture and traditions and helped strengthen relationships between international students and the local community.
