Embracing Language, Faith, and Culture in Aceh

I was inspired to apply for the Darmasiswa Scholarship Program because of my interest in Indonesian culture, language, and society. Among all ASEAN countries, each rich with its own traditions, I was eager to involve myself in another Southeast Asian culture to broaden my understanding of the region.

I observed that Indonesia’s tourism marketing is often very Bali-centric. While many travelers visit Java Island because of its famous tourist attractions, I wanted to explore a different side of Indonesia. I chose to study in Sumatra, specifically in Banda Aceh, to discover and share the rich culture and natural beauty of Sumatra, which are not widely seen on social media.

Universitas Syiah Kuala, being one of the leading universities in Aceh, offered a strong academic program and a supportive environment for international students. I believed that studying there would be a good chance to learn Indonesian language and culture.

“When I first arrived in Banda Aceh, I was struck by how peaceful and welcoming the city felt. As a Buddhist, I found it fascinating how strongly Islamic culture shaped daily life. I was also deeply impressed by the natural beauty that surrounded the city.

The university provided a structured and supportive environment, with friendly teachers who were passionate about teaching. I appreciated how the classes not only focused on language skills but also integrated cultural aspects, making the learning process more active.

One of the most challenging aspects of learning Bahasa Indonesia was mastering the pronunciation, especially the different intonations and accents used in various regions. While the language itself is relatively straightforward in terms of grammar, in speaking and listening can be tricky to grasp at first. On the other hand, I found the most enjoyable aspect to be the simplicity and flexibility of the language. The ease with which I could form sentences and express myself without worrying about complex grammatical rules.

I realized my Bahasa Indonesia had really improved during an exam, particularly when I had to write an essay on a cultural topic. In the past, I would have struggled to express my ideas clearly in Indonesian, but this time, I was able to write with confidence and fluency.

I had several memorable experiences while practicing Bahasa Indonesia with locals. I struggled to keep up with their rapid speech and occasional use of Acehnese, which is commonly spoken in Banda Aceh. I also appreciated how patient and encouraging the locals were, always willing to help me understand and communicate.

I engaged with Acehnese culture by actively participating in local Islamic celebrations and traditions, which were an eye-opening experience for me. I attended local mosques during Idul Fitri. These interactions helped me appreciate the deep connection between Acehnese culture and Islamic values.

While I didn’t encounter any customs that particularly surprised me, I did find it fascinating to see how deeply rooted Islamic traditions are in daily life in Banda Aceh.

My interactions with local students and communities had a profound impact on my cultural understanding. Through conversations and shared experiences, I gained a deeper insight into the values, beliefs, and daily practices of the Acehnese people.

The cultural event that left the strongest impression on me was Idul Fitri, which I had the chance to experience in Banda Aceh. While Idul Fitri is also celebrated in my home country, the way it was observed in Aceh was truly unique. I was amazed by the traditions that were specific to Aceh, such as the community gatherings, the special salam (greeting) customs. Experiencing Idul Fitri in Banda Aceh gave me a deeper appreciation for the cultural and religious richness of Indonesia.

A particular memory from Banda Aceh that I will always carry with me is the combination of its stunning natural beauty, delicious food, and the warmth of its people. The lush landscapes, with its beautiful beaches and green hills, left a lasting impression on me. I also vividly remember the vibrant flavors of Acehnese cuisine, from Mie Aceh to Sate Aceh, which I thoroughly enjoyed during I live here. But most of all, it is the kindness and hospitality of the people that I will cherish. These elements together created a truly unforgettable experience, and I’ll always carry with me the memories of the natural beauty, the rich cuisine, and the wonderful people of Banda Aceh.