A voyage to the Land of the Thousand Islands, an experience to remember. Ms. Jovee Antone from BS ARCH 4-4 experienced the diversity of cultural training and development through an International Immersion Camp: Green and Eco-Tourism 2023 organized by Politeknik Negeri Malang (PoliNeMa) that happened last August 21-26, 2023. It is beyond an opportunity to be engaged in activities filled with a lifetime's worth of knowledge.
The excitement of unfamiliarity kicked off from Day 1. Together with her classmate, Mr. Jhayvee Tan, they explored first the PoliNeMa. They were briefed on what was going to happen for the next few days. Dopamine was released as they started the tour. Their eyes were gleaming from the streets of Malang to the community filled with color, the Jodipan Colorful Village. Also, they were immersed in the local culture through eating, bargaining, and engaging with local vendors. As the sun sets, the highlight of the day was yet to begin. They were welcomed by the Malang City’s Mayor and enjoyed the gala dinner at Balai Kota. Exchanging laughter brought them and the other participants across the globe from the immersion camp a new bond that cultivated the differences in their culture. “The night was a perfect blend of cultural immersion and camaraderie.”
Another day, another slay. Their schedule was jam-packed with various ventures focusing on solar panel installation, media literacy and threats in cyberspace, writing news for tourism, and exploration of Kajoetangan Heritage Village. Starting with the fruitful workshops, they developed their practical skills, embarking on a positive change. They ended their day traveling in the past. The preserved Kajoetangan Heritage Village stimulated their curiosity in architecture, environment, artistry, economy, and technical knowledge while wandering around. “As the day came to an end, we carried with us a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to Malang’s culture and community.”
There’s no doubt that immersion camp was more than just a camp. On their 3rd day, they had a profound tour inside the Politeknik Negeri Malang’s Campus, where they had an opportunity to visit the facilities and experience the Indonesian Education culture. With that, they prepared for the exciting fourth and fifth days.
The continuous expansion of cultural immersion on the fourth day was a burst of rich traditions, visiting the villages-captivated by the ritual dance and solar panel installation by the community of Wringinsongo, exhibiting artistic expression through mask-painting in Tulus Besar Village, and camping in Duwet Village under the glistening stars on black sky. As the day ended at the campfire with stories, cultural insights, and songs, it deepened Ms. Jovee’s connection with the other participants and the smooth sailing diverse life. “Day 4 was a mosaic woven with threads of cultural immersion, sustainable initiatives, artistic expression, and cross-cultural connections.”
On the last day, the immersion camp promised a breathtaking experience through summiting the Bromo Mountain-departed at 2 AM, sleepiness devoured by excitement. As the sun slowly rose, an explosion of splendor made everything worthwhile. “The view left me teary-eyed, overwhelmed by the sense of being a part of this magnificent planet,” said by Ms. Jovee. After the peak of the journey, the downhill satisfaction lured them into savoring the chicken ball soup, Bakso, and purchasing souvenirs and gifts.
Goodbyes are not the end. The cluster of emotions and camaraderie filled the gala dinner in Pendopo Kabupaten Malang. From the interview she shared her thoughts, “To my surprise and delight, I was named the Best Participant for the entire event. The recognition left me humbled and thankful, especially considering this was the inaugural International Immersion Camp.”
Seven days in Malang, Indonesia - an experience more than just taking pictures. The immersion camp brimmed with a cup of knowledge opened Ms. Jovee’s eyes with a light that brought her closer to cultural diversity. New friendships were built, memories that will forever keep and lasting experience will be forever be a part of her personal and academic endeavor. “The International Immersion Camp had brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and it had gifted us with a profound sense of connection to our planet and each other. It was a journey of discovery, enlightenment, and transformation—a journey that left an indelible mark on our lives.” Without the recommendation of Ar. Jocelyn Lutap they wouldn’t experience a once in a lifetime 2,527-kilometer voyage.
Kommentare