A Journey of Growth, Culture, and Connection
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My 28-day stay in Malang, Indonesia, was a whirlwind of emotions and discoveries—a mosaic of challenges, awe-inspiring moments, and heartfelt connections that reshaped my perspective on life, culture, and education. From the labyrinthine corridors of Universitas Brawijaya and Brawijaya Smart School to the vibrant streets of Malang, every day unfolded like a chapter in a story I’ll cherish forever.
Universitas Brawijaya: A Campus of Wonders
My journey began at Universitas Brawijaya, one of Indonesia’s largest and most prestigious universities. Its sprawling campus felt like a small city, with endless pathways, lush gardens, and tall buildings. My classmates and I quickly realized that exploring every corner would be impossible, even if we dedicated one to two days to the task. Yet, this limitation became part of the adventure.
We navigated the campus like explorers, starting each day by stepping out of our dormitory with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The university’s iconic UB logo, emblazoned on a grand central building, became our favorite photo spot—a symbol of our temporary home. But the campus’s sheer size often led to comical misadventures. Despite our best efforts, we frequently got lost on the way back to our dormitory, wandering past different unfamiliar and bustling student cafeterias, only to stumble upon hidden courtyards or open-air grounds. These moments taught me to embrace uncertainty and find joy in the unexpected.
Kampoeng Heritage Kajoetangan: A Portal to the Past
Our first stop was Kampoeng Heritage Kajoetangan Malang, a cultural village. Under the bright sun, we explored its narrow pathways, lined with Indonesian houses. One of the highlights of this village is its array of shops, cafés, and restaurants offering local delicacies. However, during our visit—which coincided with Ramadan—most of these establishments were closed. According to our student buddies, the village is especially lively when the cafés and restaurants are open, showcasing Malang’s culinary culture.
A small river flowed gently through the village, and we took photos there, capturing the serene atmosphere that highlighted the connection between nature and daily life in historical Malang.
Scattered around the village were artifacts dating back to the 1990s, including antique farming tools, early televisions (likely from later decades), and old photographs displayed in restored houses. These items provided a glimpse into the livelihoods of past residents, illustrating how they cooked, farmed, and traded. While the inclusion of a television seemed an anomaly among 19th-century artifacts, the overall collection emphasized the village’s role in preserving Malang’s heritage.
Malang Skyland: Thrills and Panoramas
For pure exhilaration, nothing compared to Malang Skyland, a park perched on the hills overlooking the city. With my classmates, I screamed my way through and giggled on spinning rides, and tasted local food like ayam goreng (Indonesian fried chicken) with its signature spicy flavor. However, the highlight was the view from the elevated path, where Malang unfolded beneath us—a patchwork of red-tiled roofs, mosques dotting the landscape, and mist-capped mountains in the distance. At that moment, I felt both tiny and connected to something vast, a reminder of the world’s boundless beauty.
Araya Arcade Garden
At Araya Arcade Garden, we stepped into a scene straight out of a Swiss postcard. Manicured lawns stretched beneath faux-European cottages, and flower beds burst with roses and orchids. What made this place special was the endless expanse of vibrant green grass, which created a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle. The crisp, clean air and serene surroundings made it feel like paradise—a tranquil oasis where every breath felt revitalizing.
Wisata Santera de Lapunte: A World in One Park
This is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited in Malang, Indonesia—a destination that offers everything from therapeutic views to heart-pounding activities. At first glance, the entrance welcomes you with vibrant, colorful flower gardens, creating a serene atmosphere. However, as we ventured deeper, the place revealed even more: a sparkling swimming pool, food stalls serving diverse cuisines (from traditional Indonesian dishes to Western favorites), and a small petting area with rabbits and other friendly animals.
The most striking feature was its themed zones designed to transport visitors to different parts of the world. One area mirrored the charm of South Korea with cherry blossom-lined paths, while another replicated the minimalist beauty of Japanese gardens. A standout section resembled Hong Kong Disneyland, complete with a fairytale-like castle and whimsical cafes offering crispy Indonesian fried chicken. For thrill-seekers, there were rides reminiscent of Enchanted Kingdom in the Philippines, including karting tracks and ziplines. Moving dinosaurs added a playful touch, moving and roaring to surprise guests.
My most unforgettable experience here was riding a Ferris wheel for the first time. Initially, I expected a calm, scenic ride, but as we ascended to the top, my heart raced at the dizzying height. Peering down at the sprawling landscape of Malang—its red-tiled roofs, distant mosques, and misty mountains—I felt a mix of terror and awe. The view rivaled what I’d seen at Malang Skyland.
Batik: Weaving Stories into Fabric
The most profound cultural experience was our visit to a batik workshop. I learned that batik is far more than a craft—it’s a language of symbols and a spiritual practice woven into Indonesia’s identity. The artisan explained how each motif carries meaning: the parang (dagger) pattern symbolizes strength, while the kawung (palm fruit) represents purity.
After the workshop, we explored a historical house filled with artifacts used by Indonesian ancestors, primarily from the 19th century These included farming tools like ani-ani (traditional rice knives), hand-carved wooden plows, and ceremonial weapons such as kris daggers, which symbolized social status and spiritual protection. Each item revealed the ingenuity and daily rhythms of past generations.
Taking home my batik creation—a towel adorned with my name and clumsy floral patterns—I felt a newfound respect for the artisans who dedicate their lives to this art. Batik isn’t just cloth; it’s a testament to Indonesia’s resilience, creativity, and deep connection to its heritage. The workshop and historical visit together underscored how traditions, whether in fabric or tools, are threads that weave a nation’s story across time.
Dr. Frida’s Home: A Lesson in Family and Food
The pinnacle of our cultural immersion was an invitation to Dr. Frida’s home, a warm, bustling house filled with the aroma of spices and the sound of laughter. Dr. Frida, a professor at Universitas Brawijaya, welcomed us like family. We eat under the weight of dishes: sayur lodeh (vegetable stew), a chicken dish reminiscent of Filipino adobo, which she called ayam kecap (soy sauce chicken) and many more. As we ate, Dr. Frida shared stories of raising her children in Malang and her work promoting cross-cultural education. Her home radiated warmth—not just from the food, but from the way she listened intently to our stories of life in the Philippines.
To the people of Malang—terima kasih (thank you). Thank you for sharing your homes, your stories, and your laughter. Thank you for teaching me that adventure isn’t just about places; it’s about the hearts you touch along the way. My 28 days in Indonesia didn’t just broaden my horizons; they expanded my soul. And for that, I am forever changed and grateful.
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