CULTURISE X Songkhla Lagoon 2024

The CULTURISE X Songkhla Lagoon 2024 event, held from September 13-16,
2024, aims to celebrate and promote Indonesian culture through an engaging Batik
exhibition and related activities. The event is proudly organised by the Indonesian
International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA) with support from the Faculty of
Management Sciences (FMS), Prince of Songkla University and the Songkhla Provincial
Government, alongside the Indonesian Consulate in Songkhla. This collaboration at the
provincial level reflects a strong commitment to cross-cultural exchange and fostering
international relations.

Held at Songkhla Old Town as part of Songkhla’s Awakening Day festivities,
CULTURISE X Songkhla Lagoon 2024 features a Batik Exhibition that showcases
diverse batik styles from Indonesia. The event drew large crowds of both local residents
and international tourists, eager to engage with Indonesian culture. Attendees can also
enjoy a Traditional Fashion Show, highlighting Indonesia’s rich sartorial heritage, while
the Language, Culture, and History Exhibit provides deeper insights into Indonesia’s
ethnic diversity and traditions. Furthermore, the event offers Indonesian snacks and
beverages, allowing visitors to experience the authentic flavours of Indonesia.

This multifaceted event seeks to deepen cultural appreciation, foster cross-cultural
understanding, and celebrate Indonesia’s vibrant heritage with the international
community. By integrating with Songkhla’s Awakening Day, the event serves as a bridge
to celebrate and share Indonesian cultural heritage with the local community.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity to introduce the rich culture of Indonesia to
the people of Songkhla. Through the Batik exhibition, traditional clothing fashion show,
and the variety of Indonesian snacks and beverages, we hope to strengthen the bond
between our two cultures and provide a memorable experience for everyone. I am very
excited to share and learn from this experience and to celebrate cultural diversity
together,” said Dr. Natika Chaiyanupong, Director of Bachelor of Business
Administration (BBA) at Prince of Songkla University.

In addition to institutional voices, local residents and tourists alike praised the
event’s immersive cultural offerings. “It’s amazing to see such a vibrant display of
Indonesian culture right here in Songkhla. The Batik patterns are stunning, and the food
gives us a real taste of Indonesia,” commented one local visitor.

We anticipate that the event will foster cultural exchange, strengthen international
bonds, and enhance appreciation for Indonesian culture among local residents and visitors
alike. The strong support from both local government and international organisations
highlights the significance of this event as a cornerstone of cultural diplomacy and global
friendship.