Fostering Cultural Exchange, New Colombo Plan 2025 Students Explore the Majesty of Uluwatu Temple
Badung, Bali, December 12, 2025 – The spirit of cross-border cultural exchange flourished in Bali as participants of the New Colombo Plan (NCP) 2025 conducted a special visit to one of the island’s most iconic destinations, Pura Luhur Uluwatu. In the event held last Friday, students from Edith Cowan University (ECU), Australia, were accompanied by their counterparts from Undiknas University. This collaboration between the two educational institutions aimed not only to strengthen academic ties but also to provide an immersive experience for international students to directly explore the spiritual depth and historical richness of the Island of the Gods.
During the visit, the students toured the grounds to delve into the history and philosophy behind Uluwatu Temple, which stands majestically atop a 70-meter cliff projecting into the Indian Ocean. Participants appeared enthusiastic as they listened to explanations regarding the temple’s architecture, its critical role as one of the Sad Kahyangan (the six key temples of Bali), and the etiquette required to maintain the sanctity of the area. This moment served as a valuable educational opportunity for the NCP students to understand how Balinese society balances a thriving tourism industry with the preservation of sacred religious values. The highlight of this cultural excursion was witnessing the legendary Kecak Dance performance set against a stunning sunset backdrop. Students from Edith Cowan University and Undiknas University were captivated by the rhythmic “cak-cak-cak” chanting performed by dozens of male dancers without any musical accompaniment. This performance, which retells the epic Ramayana saga, offered a dramatic and magical theatrical experience, providing deep insights for the international students into the world-renowned traditional performing arts of Bali.
This visit to Pura Luhur Uluwatu is expected to become a cherished memory that strengthens people-to-people links between Australia and Indonesia. Through the New Colombo Plan 2025, students take home not just academic knowledge, but also a profound appreciation for Indonesia’s cultural diversity. The synergy between Edith Cowan University and Undiknas University in this activity stands as a testament to their commitment to molding a young generation with a global outlook who continues to respect and value local wisdom.
