SBM ITB organized a cultural excursion to the Cibiru Wetan Tourism Village in Bandung on February 2nd. This initiative aimed to familiarize international exchange students from diverse backgrounds with Indonesian culture. The event was attended by representatives from IRO SBM ITB, international students, SBM ITB lecturers, and local student volunteers.
During their visit to Cibiru Wetan, the international students had the opportunity to experience traditional archery using indigenous arrows. Everyone enthusiastically participated in this activity, including the international students and their local student buddies. As a gesture of appreciation, the residents of Cibiru Wetan Village presented them with traditional side cloths upon their successful attempts.
Additionally, the participants engaged in fishing, where they tried catching fish, followed by a communal cooking session where they prepared and enjoyed lunch together. Traditional Sundanese dishes were served, giving the international students a taste of Indonesian culinary delights.
For many, this experience marked their first time trying chili sauce and catfish. Jadge Raige, one of the international students, expressed his delight in discovering the deliciousness of catfish, which he found to be comparable to the salmon he typically enjoys.
The itinerary also included a session on traditional dance led by two instructors from the Cibiru Wetan Village. Participants even participated in a dance challenge without guidance, with three international students and one SBM ITB student emerging as the winners. Residents rewarded their bravery and dancing skills with gifts.
Concluding the excursion, the group embarked on a hike to a pottery-making workshop, where international students had the chance to craft various types of pottery, serving as souvenirs of their visit. The day concluded with a group photo session before the participants returned to the ITB Bandung MBA Campus, carrying cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of Indonesian culture.
