Bringing Cirebon’s Soul to the World: International Office Sets the Stage for AsiaCALL 2025 with Local Artist Team
Cirebon, November 8, 2025 — Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UIN SSC), held a coordination meeting with Wawan Darmawan, S.Pd., an alumnus of UIN SSC also the representative of the artist team who will perform at the Opening Ceremony and Gala Dinner of AsiaCALL 2025. The meeting focused on finalizing the overall concept, performance themes, scheduling, and how the art could represent both academic excellence and Cirebon’s local creativity. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. emphasized that every artistic element—music, movement, and message—should express collaboration and innovation. He also shared his expectations that the performance would reflect the university’s identity as a bridge between tradition and global vision. The discussion ran in a warm yet productive atmosphere filled with creative insights.
Lala Bumela, Ph.D. then invited Wawan to visit the 8th-floor auditorium, which will serve as the main stage for the AsiaCALL 2025 Opening Ceremony. The visit aimed to review the layout, lighting, and overall ambiance of the venue to ensure that the performance concept would match the auditorium’s atmosphere. Wawan came as the artist team’s representative, bringing several sample videos to demonstrate visual preferences and stage mood ideas. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. gave feedback on how those references could be adjusted to fit the conference’s character and formal tone. Through this discussion, both finally found a concept that harmonized local culture with an international presentation style. The session on-site helped translate ideas into practical staging decisions. This collaboration marked an essential step toward aligning artistic creativity with academic prestige.
Wawan expressed his enthusiasm for combining modern artistic approaches with the beauty of Cirebon’s traditional elements. He explained that his goal was to create a performance that honors local culture while staying accessible to international audiences. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. and Wawan actively shared insights on how color, motion, and rhythm could work together to reflect the university’s innovative spirit. The meeting atmosphere was filled with mutual respect and creative excitement. Their cooperation symbolized how education and art can move in harmony to deliver a powerful cultural message. The exchange also inspired Wawan to bring forward his best artistic expression for the AsiaCALL 2025 stage.
Lala Bumela, Ph.D. and Wawan later discussed preparations for the Gala Dinner performance, which will be held at the Luxton Hotel, Cirebon. The conversation covered stage design, timing, and coordination with hotel management to ensure smooth execution. Both agreed that the Gala Dinner should present a graceful performance that combines elegance and local identity. During the meeting, the payment for the project was also finalized, reflecting transparent and professional cooperation. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. expressed appreciation for Wawan’s commitment and responsibility in every step of preparation. Wawan also appreciated the International Office’s trust and openness during collaboration. Together, they envisioned a Gala Dinner performance that would leave a lasting cultural impression on all participants of AsiaCALL 2025.
Wawan then shared several stories from his experience in the performing arts world, including unexpected challenges such as payment delays and sudden cancellations in previous projects. He said those experiences had made him more careful in choosing professional collaborations. “However, I’m confident working with Lala Bumela, Ph.D. and the International Office because I can see how organized and serious the preparation is,” Wawan said. “I’m proud to support AsiaCALL 2025 and bring my creativity to an event that connects culture, technology, and education.” His words reflected both gratitude and excitement toward contributing to his alma mater’s international success. The conversation showed genuine trust between both parties. This mutual understanding strengthened their commitment to making the event an artistic milestone for the university.
In closing, Lala Bumela, Ph.D. reflected on how art can serve as a bridge between local culture and the global community. He recalled that during last year’s visit to Cirebon, Prof. Andrew Lian, President of AsiaCALL, expressed surprise that local museums mostly showcased weapons rather than art. “That moment reminded me that Cirebon should also promote its creativity, especially through dance and performing arts,” said Lala Bumela, Ph.D. He emphasized that AsiaCALL 2025 would be the perfect opportunity to highlight Cirebon’s artistic spirit on an international stage. The collaboration with Wawan and his team, he added, represents more than preparation for a conference—it is a movement to show the world that creativity is at the heart of Cirebon’s identity. The meeting ended with optimism and shared excitement for what’s to come.
Author: Salsabilla