Wastra Kencana: Indonesian Cultural Night Exhibition by IISMA Awardees at Coventry University

On Friday, October 25, 2024, IISMA (Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards) awardees at Coventry University hosted the vibrant Indonesian Cultural Night Exhibition called Wastra Kencana in Godiva Place, Coventry, United Kingdom in honour of Indonesian National Batik Day, celebrated on October 2. IISMA is a scholarship scheme by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia to fund Indonesian students for a one semester-mobility program at top universities and reputable industries overseas. The event brought together 115 visitors, including international students, local Coventry students, faculty members, and Indonesian students from across the UK, providing them a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Indonesian culture through music, dance, art, and cuisine.

Reflecting the theme, “Threads of Gold, Stories Untold,” the exhibition showcased the beauty of Indonesia’s traditional textiles, especially batik, which UNESCO recognizes as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Visitors could engage directly with the culture through interactive activities and exhibitions. There is mencanting (batik-making), the exhibit for batik and traditional Indonesian fabric are displayed, traditional Indonesian games, a wall with layers of Indonesian culture, and a food and beverages stall called Warung Coventry that served Indomie and other Indonesian cuisines.

The Indonesian food stall, Warung Coventry, served Indomie and other traditional Indonesian cuisine.

In this event we also performed Indonesian music and dance. Traditional dances like the Genjring Party from West Java, a medley of folk songs from across Indonesia, and lively songs of popular Indonesian tunes added to the spirited atmosphere. Visitors also enjoyed performances by awardee musicians, who played violin, DJ, and the Berrys band. 

Wastra Kencana's success is the fruit of the collaboration of 37 IISMA Coventry awardees, who worked together on all aspects of the event, from conception to delivery. Their dedication to sharing Indonesian culture makes the experience memorable for all visitors.

One visitor, Norrika, expressed enjoyment after participating in the batik-making activity: “It was challenging at first, but I enjoyed creating art with all-natural dyes made from the earth. It’s an experience I’ll remember!”

Visitors enjoyed creating their batik in the mencanting activity.

Visitors expressed their enjoyment throughout the event, with feedback boards highlighting Indonesian traditional games as the favourite activity, receiving the most stars. Visitors could bring home special souvenirs from Indonesia as lasting reminders of the night’s cultural celebration to make the event even more memorable.

Malfa, the project leader, shared insights into the event’s preparation: “There’s a lot to prepare, even before we depart, so the work is intricate and challenging. But seeing the results and watching locals enjoy Indonesian culture is rewarding.”

Visitors wore traditional Indonesian clothing and enjoyed the photo booth session.

The event was a key part of a broader initiative by IISMA awardees to build admiration and understanding between cultures, ultimately deepening the relationship between Indonesia and communities worldwide. Such initiatives are important in creating an understanding and appreciation, highlighting the beauty of cultural diversity.