Penulis : Markus Deli, Daud R. Palimbong, Roni La’biran
21 University of Western Australia students carried out a cultural immersion program for Bali Studio. The Bali Studio program is led by Prof. Paul Trinidad as the director. UKI Toraja was fortunate to collaborate with UWA by participating in several immersion programs from 8-19 July 2024. UKI Toraja's participation in this program was initiated by The head of International Affairs, Dr. Roni La'biran, M.Pd., and the Head of the Language Centre, Judith Ratu Tandiarrang, M.Pd. The program commenced with the serene Melukat Ceremony at Pura Windhu Segara, marking the beginning of the Bali Studio 2024 immersion experience, 7 July 2024.
Reni Lolotandung and Venni Banne Tasik led the second day, July 8-10, 2024 with a captivating performance and teaching of the Pe' Gellu Traditional Dance of Toraja, known as the Dance of Happiness. The dance classes, infused with ethnic rhythms and vibrant energy, brought cultural richness to the participants.
On the third day, July 10,2024, Daud Rodi Palimbong and Markus Deli Girik Allo presented the traditional culture of Toraja, including the significance of the Tongkonan and the Aluk To Dolo ("Way of the Ancestors") animist beliefs. Their session provided an immersive experience into the mystic energy and heritage of the Land Above the Clouds.
Elisabet Mangera, Judith Ratu Tandiarrang, and Feronika Sampe Mangalik conducted Bahasa Indonesia classes from July 8-19, 2024. They introduced assignment parameters through a compelling PowerPoint presentation, engaging students in scavenger hunts, documentation, conversations, and presentations to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the language and culture.
The collaboration between UKI Toraja and the University of Western Australia has proved to be a fruitful endeavor, fostering a deeper cultural exchange and understanding of the unique traditions and beliefs of Toraja and Bali. (***)
