In a vibrant display of cultural prowess, a team of Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) students wowed audiences at Asia University in Taiwan. Taking home second place in the AU’s Got Talent competition on December 21, these talented dancers, all members of the university’s international class within the Psychology department, became ambassadors of Indonesian heritage on the world stage.
The student performed a variety of traditional Indonesian dances and songs, including Sajojo, Manuk Dadali, Siksik, Ampar-Ampar Pisang, Cublak Cublak Suweng, Rasa Sayang, Saman, Kecak, and Bubuy Bulan.
Audilia Safira Narullita, Silvyna Amalia Hidayati, Aida Fithri, and Aisha Hari Mulyani Putri, the four students who represented UMM, said that they chose to perform a variety of dances to showcase the diversity of Indonesian culture.
“We wanted to show the world the incredible diversity of our cultural heritage,” shared Audilia Safira Narullita, one of the team members. “Indonesia’s vast landscape and vibrant ethnicities are a constant source of inspiration for us. By showcasing dances from various regions, we hoped to spark interest and admiration for our nation’s unique artistic tapestry.”
Their dedication to this mission shone through in their meticulous preparation. Months of tireless rehearsals, often spanning 3-4 hours each day from Monday to Friday, sculpted their performance into a mesmerizing showcase of synchronized movements and infectious energy.
Beyond the competition’s outcome, the UMM team’s message resonated deeply. Audilia’s closing words served as an impassioned call to action for her fellow students, urging them to embrace their passions and seize opportunities to champion Indonesian culture on the global stage.
“Don’t shy away from exploring your talents and seeking out new experiences,” she declared. “The world is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Embrace the unknown, step outside your comfort zone, and never forget to wear your Indonesian identity with pride.”
The UMM students’ triumph at AU’s Got Talent transcended mere competition. It became a heartwarming testament to the enduring power of cultural exchange and a poignant reminder of the transformative impact of sharing one’s heritage with the world. Their passionate performance has undoubtedly ignited a spark of curiosity and appreciation for Indonesian culture in the hearts of their Taiwanese audience, paving the way for further understanding and connection between communities.
