Undiknas and Edith Cowan University Explore Local Wisdom and Herbal Industry in New Colombo Plan 2025 Series
Gianyar, Bali, December 8, 2025 – Universitas Pendidikan Nasional (Undiknas) has once again reinforced its role in international education diplomacy through the implementation of the New Colombo Plan (NCP) 2025 program. In collaboration with a student delegation from Edith Cowan University (ECU), Australia, Undiknas organized a strategic field visit to two significant destinations in Gianyar Regency: the Kutus-Kutus Sanga-Sanga Herbal Factory and Puri Ageng Blahbatuh. This agenda was comprehensively designed to provide an immersive experience that combines industry insights based on local wisdom with a deepening understanding of noble Balinese cultural values.
During the industrial visit to the Kutus-Kutus Sanga-Sanga Herbal Factory, the delegates received an in-depth presentation regarding the company profile and the business ecosystem of traditional medicine, which has now penetrated the global market. Students were invited to directly observe production processes that integrate modern techniques with ancestral heritage recipes. This session provided a new perspective for international students on how local commodities can be managed through professional management to possess high economic value without abandoning the roots of local health traditions. The cultural exploration continued at Puri Ageng Blahbatuh, where the group was welcomed with rich historical narratives regarding the palace’s existence and the cultural dynamics of the Blahbatuh community. At this cultural center, students were not merely observers but participated actively in Balinese dance practice. This session aimed to directly introduce the philosophy of movement, discipline, and the aesthetics of Balinese performing arts, facilitating a dynamic and participatory cultural exchange between students of both nations.
The culmination of this cultural activity was marked by a unique gastronomic experience in the form of a Royal Balinese-style lunch. This dining tradition was presented with authentic etiquette and serving methods that reflect the values of respect and the hospitality of the Balinese aristocracy. Through the integration of this industrial visit and historical tourism, the NCP 2025 program is expected to not only broaden academic horizons but also strengthen people-to-people connections between Indonesia and Australia through meaningful cross-cultural understanding.
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