With Batik as a Bridge, International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon Connects Local Heritage with the Global Stage
Cirebon, July 07, 2025 — Prof. Greg, together with International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon, paid a benchmarking visit to Kampung Wisata Batik Trusmi in Cirebon. The visit was part of a broader initiative by the university to promote cultural preservation and international education collaboration. As an office dedicated to global partnerships and cultural diplomacy, the International Office aims to explore how Cirebon batik can serve not only as a heritage asset but also as a powerful educational and cultural ambassador on the world stage. “This trip is more than just about appreciating art,” said Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., the Director of International Office, at the start of the visit. “We see batik as more than a traditional craft, it’s a tool for reinforcing national identity and enhancing our presence in international cultural dialogue.”
As a memento of the visit, Prof. Greg Barton purchased several pieces featuring deeply symbolic motifs such as Mega Mendung (Cloud Dragon) and Tiga Negeri (Three Realms), which carry profound philosophical meanings. He described these batik pieces as the first symbols of future collaboration between the International Office and local artisan communities. “I believe that with institutional support, batik can truly become a bridge connecting local culture with the international community,” he added. These insights will be compiled into a strategic report to lay the foundation for ongoing and sustainable cooperation.
From an international education perspective, the visit provided valuable insight into the importance of integrating cultural elements within higher education management. The International Office sees the preservation of local values like batik, as essential in building the university’s global identity. This aligns with the institution's mission to act as a bridge between national traditions and international academic standards. Through this approach, international students are not only exposed to academic excellence but also immersed in Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.
The visit also inspired the International Office team to explore new ways to strengthen cross-sector collaboration. Future plans include cultural exchange programs, international-themed batik design workshops, and English language training for local artisans. These initiatives aim to empower the local batik industry by expanding its reach beyond domestic borders. “Our goal is to serve as a bridge between local communities and the global network,” said Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D. after the visit.
The day concluded with a light discussion on how local wisdom can inspire the development of future education systems. Prof. Greg emphasized the need to combine local traditions like batik with modern, efficient campus management practices. This experience laid a strong foundation before the team continued its benchmarking agenda at Deakin Lancaster University, where they would explore cutting-edge models of technology-driven campus operations. With a holistic approach, the International Office continues to work toward fulfilling the university’s vision: to be an inclusive, innovative, and culturally rooted institution of global relevance.
Author’s: Cherryshifa Hilary Afsonias, Laily Dwi Islami Azzahra, Wulan Putri Islami.