The contemporary Wayang performance that was part of Brawijaya Tosan Aji Fest 2025, (19/04/2025), left a deep impression on the foreign students of Universitas Brawijaya (UB). Through the beautiful collaboration between puppetry and gamelan arts, this event successfully opened up a space for cross-cultural understanding while strengthening relations between nations through traditional Indonesian arts.
One of the foreign students, Yeriel from Madagascar, expressed his admiration for gamelan music which he said was not only musically beautiful, but also taught important values in life.
“Gamelan practice taught me to be more patient, focused, and meticulous. From something we think we already know, it turns out there is still a lot to learn,” he said.
Similar to Yeriel, Ahmed El Sayed from Egypt said that this experience was very unique and worth repeating. “Absolutely great, I would love to do it again in the future!” he said enthusiastically.
Zang Ziqi, a student from China, said that in addition to learn gamelan, she also learned Javanese for the first time. “It was an amazing event,” she said briefly but meaningfully.
Meanwhile, Nigora Muminova from Uzbekistan expressed her emotional experience during the performance. “I felt very happy and excited. At first I was afraid of making mistakes, but my friends and teachers were very patient. This is not only about music, but also about togetherness and love for Indonesian culture,” said Nigora with sparkling eyes. She hopes to be able to participate in similar activities again.
Đàng Nguyễn Trúc Linh, who is familiarly called Melly from Vietnam, added that the opportunity to play gamelan was an unforgettable cultural experience.
“The closeness and friendliness of the trainers made me want to participate in more arts and cultural programs,” she said, hoping for continued collaboration between Indonesia and Vietnam.
Bai Yiting from China also shared her meaningful story while playing the Saron Penerus instrument.
“I feel like I am a part of a harmony. Not only learning music, but also the values of cooperation and respect,” she said. She feels proud to be able to help preserve Indonesia’s cultural heritage and hopes to continue to contribute to introducing it to the world.
The contemporary Wayang performance at Brawijaya Tosan Aji Fest 2025 not only amazed local audiences, but also provided a space for authentic cultural experiences for UB’s international students. This proves that traditional Indonesian art has the power to unite and inspire across nations. [AZZ/UB PR/ Trans. Iir]
