Cultural Collaboration between UKA (Aceh Cultural Unit) and UKJ (Japanese Cultural Unit) ITB: Strengthening Bonds through Acehnese and Japanese Traditions
By Syabina Er Said - Mahasiswa Teknik Dirgantara, 2020
Editor M. Naufal Hafizh, S.S.
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id — On Sunday (March 16, 2025), the Aceh Cultural Unit (UKA) and the Japanese Cultural Unit (UKJ) of Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) held a collaborative meeting at the ITB West Campus Center. The event was organized by the intracampus divisions of both cultural units.
Both cultural units have work programs focused on introducing their respective cultures to the campus community while strengthening intercultural relationships.
Under the name "Meusyeuhu," UKA envisions itself as a home for cultural self-actualization and community contribution. It organizes various programs such as Acehnese traditional arts training and cultural introduction events like Seunada, Geuchik, and the UKA ITB Milad celebration. UKA is also actively fostering internal family bonds through activities like "UKA Ngumpul Ceunah" and "Peusijuek," a traditional Acehnese ceremony symbolizing gratitude, peace, and blessings.
On the other hand, UKJ focuses on introducing both traditional and modern Japanese culture. This unit consists of various divisions, including Language, Manga, Music, Cooking, Odori (Japanese dance), and Cosplay.
One of their top programs includes performing a dance called "Natsu Matsuri," which means "Summer Festival." They also organize Japanese cultural classes, such as Tea Ceremony classes and Origami workshops, aimed at introducing unique aspects of Japanese culture to ITB students. Additionally, UKJ hosts an annual event called "Bunka No Hi," where all divisions showcase their works to the public.
During this collaborative event, UKA members had the opportunity to wear yukata, a traditional Japanese clothes typically worn at summer festivals, and experience Japanese culture firsthand. This activity not only highlighted the aesthetic aspect of the attire but also provided a deeper understanding of Japanese traditions and customs.
Equally exciting, UKJ participants were also invited to learn the Saman dance, a traditional Acehnese dance known for its synchronized movements and rapid rhythm. ITB students from both UKA and UKJ eagerly participated in learning the basic movements of this dance, which embodies values of beauty, unity, and teamwork.
"This collaboration went exceptionally well and was right on target. Hopefully, similar events can be held regularly to strengthen relationships, learn about cultures, and collaborate—not only between UKA and UKJ but also with all cultural and arts student organizations at ITB," said Fathan Mumtaz Yunadi (Civil Engineering, 2021), the Sultan of UKA.
Ayana Morita, a Japanese exchange student, shared her experience in bridging the understanding between Japanese and Indonesian cultures. According to her, ITB students show great interest in Japanese culture, particularly in traditional arts such as calligraphy and dance, as well as modern culture, including anime and J-pop music.
On the other hand, students involved in UKA emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Acehnese culture, which is rich in traditions and uniqueness. This includes traditional foods such as Mie Aceh and Kuah Pliek U, as well as the deep-rooted Islamic history and values in Aceh.
"Hopefully, the relationship between UKA and UKJ remains harmonious, synergistic, and even closer for years to come," said Amira Maiza Haq (Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, 2023), the head of UKJ's intracampus division, in her speech, expressing optimism for the continued collaboration between the two cultural units.
The collaboration between UKA and UKJ marks an important moment in enriching cultural diversity at ITB and broadening students' perspectives on appreciating both cultures. "As fellow entities under KM ITB, we hope this friendship serves as a foundation for more collaborative activities in the future," said Hamdan Syukran (Metallurgical Engineering, 2021) from UKA.
Reporter: Syabina Er Said (Teknik Dirgantara, 2020)
Translator: Indira Akmalia Hendri
