International Students Participate in a Comprehensive and Lively Q&A Session During the AIA Health Insurance Orientation at UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon
Cirebon, November 27, 2025 — The International Office of UIN Syekh Nurjati Cirebon successfully held a socialization session on AIA health insurance specifically designed for international students. The session was led by Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office of UINSSC. The session was also attended by Dr. Arief Rachman, M.Si. (Vice Dean I of FDKI) and Dr. Naeila Rifatul Muna, M.Pd.I. (Vice Dean II of FUA). Representatives from AIA Health Insurance—Ariargo W. Putra, Aderianto, Rofi Mutaaludin, and Dianti—delivered the material directly to the participants. Representatives from RS Medimas, Ayu and Anwar, were also present. The session was attended by SN-GES scholarship awardees from various countries, namely Tony Samula Guiaman, Adam Saraeh, Prince Adzhar Salisipan Duran, Raquema Bonggoan Moten, Asia Samang, Balkis Song, Baby Farhana L.T., Alenor Langiles Sharif, Aliyu Masaudu, Maja Asleah Lindongan Salisipan, Nadja Querod Cabuyao, Paojia Cabuyao Sucatan, Jadene Querod Zainal, Tasneem Wado, Umar Abba, Muhammad Bello Abbas, Haruna Musa Balarabe, Hamdi Mujeb Thabet Sharaf, and Babou Seck. Also present were representatives of Muhsin Riyadi, M.Ag., from the Ma’had al-Jamiah team—Sokhib Daulah and Syifaul Qulub. The International Office received full support from its Secretary, Ivo Dinasta Yuniar, S.S., M.Appling, member Ghina Amaliyah Sholihah, S.Sos., and the Global Engagement Team (GET). “We want to make sure that every international student understands how to use their health insurance properly so they feel safe and supported while studying here,” said Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D.
Their presence created a dynamic atmosphere and demonstrated the International Office’s commitment to ensuring that international students clearly understand the health facilities available to them during their studies in Indonesia. The participants followed the session enthusiastically and actively raised questions. The International Office viewed this positive response as evidence of the importance of health education for international students. Through activities like this, campus services can be delivered more effectively and be more easily understood.
The question-and-answer session featured in-depth discussions, including one from Prince Adzhar Salisipan Duran, a student from the Philippines. He asked about daily health checks such as blood sugar testing, eye examinations, dermatology services, and tooth extraction procedures. AIA representatives explained that Medical Check-Ups (MCUs) are not included in the benefits unless recommended by a doctor. “If the condition is based on medical indications and the doctor recommends further examination, then the cost will be covered,” the AIA team clarified. This explanation helped distinguish between health services based on medical indications and those done for personal preference. The students appeared to gain a clearer understanding of service limitations after receiving direct explanations from the insurance provider.
AIA also provided clarification regarding outpatient services, which include consultations with general practitioners and certain specialists. They explained that insurance participants are allowed up to 30 visits to a general practitioner per year; exceeding this limit would result in additional personal charges. Refraction tests for eyeglasses are not covered, although medical issues such as eye irritation can still be consulted. This information offered a clear overview of how to use the AIA card at health facilities. The students welcomed the explanation, finding it highly relevant to their daily needs during their stay in Indonesia.
The interaction grew livelier when Tony Samula Guiaman participated in a comprehension quiz led by the AIA team. When asked about one of the main benefits of the insurance, Tony confidently answered despite his initial nervousness. He stated that AIA insurance helps maintain student health while providing access to inpatient and outpatient facilities. This moment demonstrated how interactive approaches can strengthen participant understanding. The International Office appreciated Tony’s enthusiasm and considered it an important part of international student engagement. Activities like this also help foster a more friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
Another question came from Aliyu Masaudu, who asked whether the insurance also covered local students. In response, the AIA team clarified that the insurance scheme discussed in the session is specifically designated for international students under the Syekh Nurjati Global Excellence Scholarship (SN-GES). This explanation provided clarity regarding the segmentation of the insurance program and ensured that each student understood the scope of their benefits. Aliyu was acknowledged for raising an important issue related to the fairness of information distribution. His participation enriched the discussion during the session.
The atmosphere became more relaxed when Babou Seck joined a game prepared by the committee. He correctly answered that AIA is the sponsor of the Tottenham Hotspur football club and received a prize from the AIA team as a token of appreciation. This activity not only served as entertainment but also helped participants recall information about the insurance services. The International Office viewed this interactive approach as an effective way to strengthen connections between the students and the presenters. Moments like these help build a sense of community among international students who are far from home.
During the explanation, AIA representatives elaborated on outpatient and inpatient coverage, specialist access, dental benefits, overseas reimbursement procedures, and the importance of visiting a general practitioner before seeing a specialist. They highlighted basic dental coverage, eye consultation rules, and same-diagnosis policies that determine benefit limits. Students also learned that vitamins and medicines are covered only when prescribed by a doctor. To reinforce the explanation, Alenor Langiles Sharif answered confidently when asked about the program’s benefits, stating that students receive “inpatient and outpatient benefits,” which the AIA team confirmed. His answer showcased a clear understanding of the insurance structure and contributed to the session’s learning outcomes.
Overall, the event reaffirmed the commitment of the International Office of UINSSC to ensuring that international students understand their health rights and benefits. With the collaboration of AIA, RS Medimas, Ma’had al-Jamiah, and the campus team, the session was informative, friendly, and student-centered. Participants left the event with a clearer understanding of claim procedures, benefit limits, and how to access medical services in Indonesia. The International Office expressed its appreciation to all parties for their support and participation. In his closing remarks, Lala Bumela, Ph.D., highlighted the ongoing dedication of the institution to international student welfare, stating, “Your well-being is our priority, and we will continue to provide services that make your academic journey in Indonesia safer and more comfortable.” This activity serves as an important step in strengthening global engagement and ensuring the well-being of the international student community at UINSSC.
Author: Cindi Aulia