(Bandar Seri Begawan, 2nd) A vibrant celebration of cultural exchange and friendship was successfully held yesterday at Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Primary School in Brunei.
40 teachers and students from Nizamia Andalusia School in Jakarta, Indonesia, including the principal and six teachers, visited the school, creating a valuable platform for the young generations of both countries to share traditions and experiences.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the longstanding cultural and educational ties between Indonesia and Brunei, further consolidating the friendly relationship between these two Southeast Asian neighbors.
The Indonesian delegation was warmly received by the principal of Sultan Foundation Primary School, Ms. Hajah Hafizah. In her speech, she stated that this exchange is not merely a formal visit, but also a bridge of mutual respect and understanding between the next generation.
The principal of Nizamia Andalusia School, Ms. Uli, expressed her gratitude for the thoughtful arrangements in her speech. She pointed out that the students had prepared thoroughly for this exchange, and she believed that personally experiencing Brunei’s hospitality and rich culture would be a valuable lesson unattainable from textbooks.
The highlight of the morning was an interactive session involving 33 fifth-grade students from both schools. The children quickly bonded over shared interests, with laughter filling the venue. Bruneian students taught their Indonesian peers basic Malay phrases, while the Indonesian students enthusiastically introduced Indonesian slang, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere.
During the cultural experience session, teachers and students tasted Bruneian traditional delicacies and exquisite pastries. According to local customs, desserts made from pandan leaves and coconut milk are classic treats for guests. The delegation also sampled Brunei’s signature dish, Ambuyat.
Next, the school hall came alive with energetic drumbeats as students showcased their respective cultural heritages through traditional dance and musical performances. Bruneian teachers and students first performed the elegant Malay traditional dance "Adu Adu," accompanied live by the Gulintangan ensemble.
The Indonesian students responded with a vibrant traditional dance "Oray-orayan," known for its quick hand movements and strong rhythmic sense. The performers’ discipline and energy left a deep impression on the audience. In the latter part of the dance, the Indonesian students even invited local students to join in, bringing the atmosphere to a climax.
As the event drew to a close, the much-anticipated gift exchange segment arrived. The students lined up to present carefully prepared souvenirs to their new friends, filling the venue with warmth and joy.
As a school under the Sultan Foundation, the primary school has successfully hosted multiple international exchanges, upholding the five principles of education, welfare, religion, development, and finance, and continues to play an important role as a platform for educational diplomacy.
The visit concluded with a group photo. Members of the Indonesian delegation waved goodbye to their new friends, bringing home not only souvenirs, but also a deep affection for Bruneian culture and a sense of mutual respect and understanding that transcends borders.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the longstanding cultural and educational ties between Indonesia and Brunei, further consolidating the friendly relationship between these two Southeast Asian neighbors.
The Indonesian delegation was warmly received by the principal of Sultan Foundation Primary School, Ms. Hajah Hafizah. In her speech, she stated that this exchange is not merely a formal visit, but also a bridge of mutual respect and understanding between the next generation.
The principal of Nizamia Andalusia School, Ms. Uli, expressed her gratitude for the thoughtful arrangements in her speech. She pointed out that the students had prepared thoroughly for this exchange, and she believed that personally experiencing Brunei’s hospitality and rich culture would be a valuable lesson unattainable from textbooks.
The highlight of the morning was an interactive session involving 33 fifth-grade students from both schools. The children quickly bonded over shared interests, with laughter filling the venue. Bruneian students taught their Indonesian peers basic Malay phrases, while the Indonesian students enthusiastically introduced Indonesian slang, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere.
During the cultural experience session, teachers and students tasted Bruneian traditional delicacies and exquisite pastries. According to local customs, desserts made from pandan leaves and coconut milk are classic treats for guests. The delegation also sampled Brunei’s signature dish, Ambuyat.
Next, the school hall came alive with energetic drumbeats as students showcased their respective cultural heritages through traditional dance and musical performances. Bruneian teachers and students first performed the elegant Malay traditional dance "Adu Adu," accompanied live by the Gulintangan ensemble.
The Indonesian students responded with a vibrant traditional dance "Oray-orayan," known for its quick hand movements and strong rhythmic sense. The performers’ discipline and energy left a deep impression on the audience. In the latter part of the dance, the Indonesian students even invited local students to join in, bringing the atmosphere to a climax.
As the event drew to a close, the much-anticipated gift exchange segment arrived. The students lined up to present carefully prepared souvenirs to their new friends, filling the venue with warmth and joy.
As a school under the Sultan Foundation, the primary school has successfully hosted multiple international exchanges, upholding the five principles of education, welfare, religion, development, and finance, and continues to play an important role as a platform for educational diplomacy.
The visit concluded with a group photo. Members of the Indonesian delegation waved goodbye to their new friends, bringing home not only souvenirs, but also a deep affection for Bruneian culture and a sense of mutual respect and understanding that transcends borders.