Indonesia continues to enchant international visitors with its rich cultural heritage, as showcased by Nation Star Academy's (NSA) recent event. On February 25, 2025, the academy opened its doors to foreign students, academic staff, and educators from eleven different countries to experience the vibrant arts of Indonesia.
The event, held on the NSA campus in Surabaya, was filled with lively demonstrations of Nusantara's traditional music and dance. According to the Head of SMP NSA, Ingriette Liany Widyasari, participants engaged directly with Indonesia's unique traditional instruments, such as Kulintang, Gamelan, and Angklung, and were also introduced to the energetic Madura Dance and the Gelang Ro’om performance.
“This event is the result of collaboration between NSA and Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) through the Directorate of Global Partnerships, as part of the Community and Technological Camp (CommTECH) Insight 2025 program,” Liany stated. The day initiated with the captivating Gelang Ro’om dance, symbolizing the courage and spirit of the Madurese people. NSA students also showcased impressive Wushu performances, adding more diversity to the cultural palette.
Following the performances, foreign students were organized in groups to learn about traditional musical instruments with guidance from NSA students. “It is not only enjoyable; this activity also strengthens cultural ties between Indonesia and countries like New Zealand, Japan, China, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Russia, and India,” Liany explained.
Pujiati, the Head of Operations Division at YPPI, added more depth to the program by noting the inclusion of dance instruction this year. Participants were taught the dynamic movements of the Gelang Ro’om under the tutelage of NSA students involved in the Sharpening Student’s Potential (SSP) program for the performing arts. The enthusiasm among foreign students was palpable as they worked to adapt their rhythm and expression to the traditional Madurese dance.
“This program reflects Nation Star Academy’s commitment to introducing and preserving Indonesian culture on the world stage,” said Pujiati. Known for empowering student interests through 33 extracurricular activities, NSA enhances its educational offerings with programs encompassing Basketball, Wushu, Band, Modern Dance, and more.
The motto of NSA, “School for Life, School of Talent, and School of Champions,” embodies the essence of this cultural introduction, which aims to leave foreign students with invaluable experiences and reinforce cross-cultural relationships.
Switching gears to another remarkable aspect of Indonesian culture, actress Prilly Latuconsina recently shared her experiences exploring the West Papua region, particularly Kaimana, as part of her campaign to promote environmental conservation. Known for its breathtaking underwater biodiversity, Kaimana has been dubbed the 'Kingdom of Fish' due to its remarkable aquatic life.
Prilly’s adventures included visits to various scuba-diving spots like Bo's Rainbow, Larry's Dive Heaven, and Christmas Rock during her trip on February 25, 2025. “I believe this district is a hidden paradise we need to protect, not just by the locals but by all who visit,” she remarked. The star emphasized the importance of preserving Kaimana’s ecological treasures, reinforcing the need for community involvement alongside governmental support and partnerships with organizations like Conservation Indonesia.
During her time there, Prilly not only reveled in the stunning marine environments but also engaged with local conservation efforts, including exploring jellyfish lakes and mangrove forests. “I was truly amazed by the knowledge of the local residents about protecting their natural surroundings for future generations,” she reflected.
Having been appointed as a 'Whale Shark Conservation Friend' by Conservation Indonesia, Prilly's advocacy aligns with Kaimana’s initiative to solidify its status as a sustainable eco-tourism destination. The abundance of marine biodiversity and local wisdom serves as proof of tourism’s ability to coexist with nature preservation.
On the flip side, for couples seeking romantic wedding venues, Bali’s O’laya Magnifique has emerged as a premier wedding destination with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean from its cliff-top location at Uluwatu. Owen Lesmana, Director of Sales & Marketing at O’laya Magnifique, described the venue as synonymous with elegance and beauty.
With panoramic vistas and access to stunning sunsets year-round, O’laya Magnifique offers not only wedding services but also luxury resort experiences. The venue features opulent accommodation options, including the Presidential Suite and Forest Suite, which are thoughtfully crafted to provide exclusivity and comfort.
The Wedding Chapel, dubbed Lotus Chapel, is the largest indoor wedding venue in Uluwatu, seating up to 150 guests. “We strive to create mesmerizing experiences for couples and their guests, offering them both privacy and the chance to immerse themselves in refined luxury,” Owen explained.
Couples can expect personalized amenities, including bespoke pillow menus and premium toiletries. With venues like O’laya Magnifique, Indonesia continues to uphold its reputation as a desirable destination for cultural and romantic experiences.