Mataram, June 7, 2025 — The University of Mataram (Unram) successfully hosted a student delegation from Shangrao Normal University (SRNU), China, for a four-day Indonesia–China Language and Cultural Exchange Program, held from June 2 to June 7, 2025. This initiative is part of the universities’ ongoing efforts to deepen academic cooperation and foster intercultural understanding.
Led by Mr. Zhou Peng, Director of the International Office at SRNU, the delegation included nine Chinese students, accompanied by six student buddies from the Mandarin Club, Faculty of Economics and Business, Unram. The visit featured a rich lineup of academic, cultural, and social activities.
Day 1 – June 3, 2025: Opening Ceremony and Campus Tour
The program began with a welcoming ceremony at the Rectorate Meeting Room, officially opened by Prof. Akmaluddin, Vice Rector for Planning, Collaboration, and Information Systems. In his remarks, Prof. Akmaluddin expressed Unram’s dedication to strengthening international academic partnerships. Mr. Zhou Peng extended his gratitude for the hospitality and highlighted the mutual benefits of sustained cooperation.
Following the ceremony, the delegation joined a campus tour, visiting the University Library and the Mandarin Center, and concluded the day with an evening visit to Senggigi Beach.
Day 2 – June 4, 2025: Faculty Visits and Language Class
On the second day, the group explored academic facilities, starting with a visit to the Faculty of Food Technology and Agroindustry, where they toured various laboratories. They then visited the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, observing research activities in gaharu wood processing and seaweed-based immunology. In the afternoon, they attended a session at the Language Center to learn about the Bahasa Indonesia language and Indonesian history.
Day 3 – June 5, 2025: Cultural Immersion and Closing Ceremony
The third day was devoted to cultural exchange. Students visited the Institute of Hindu Dharma Negeri Gde Pudja Mataram (IAHN), where they learned about Balinese Hindu culture, its traditions, and educational practices, and participated in traditional music and dance workshops.
The day concluded with a closing ceremony held at the Senate Meeting Room, 3rd Floor, Rectorate Building, featuring a series of captivating performances from both institutions. SRNU students showcased Chinese calligraphy, traditional and modern dances, vocal performances such as “Zuo Shouzhi Yue,” “Tangli Jianxue,” and “Gotta Have You,” a solo hulusi performance, a poetry recitation titled “Lovely China,” and a group dance titled “Curry Curry.” Meanwhile, Unram students contributed with traditional dances, a modern dance, and a poetry recital, fostering a warm and spirited atmosphere of mutual appreciation.
Day 4 – June 6, 2025: Religious and Cultural Exploration
On the final day, the delegation visited the Islamic Center in Mataram to learn about Islamic history in Lombok and witnessed the Eid al-Adha celebrations, including the qurban (animal sacrifice) ritual. They then explored Sade Village, a traditional Sasak community, and ended the visit with a scenic trip to Kuta Mandalika and Merese Hill, experiencing the natural beauty of Lombok.
This visit marks Shangrao Normal University’s second visit to Unram and represents a significant step forward in strengthening people-to-people connections through shared learning and cultural exchange. Both universities look forward to continued friendship and collaboration through future educational and cultural engagements.
