Dr. Djuwari
Having seen the Volleyball League in South Korea, I get excited by the Indonesian female player. She is Megawati Hangestri Pertiwi (MHP), a girl from Jember town, East Java, Indonesia. She has been under contract by the Red Sparks team since last year 2023. I have followed the events of this volleyball match since the beginning though, sometimes, I missed some events. I had to try to find the recorded YouTube when I missed it.
Why am I interested in it? I have seldom been engaged in South Korean issue development so far. But, after I found the volleyball match in this country, I felt interested in the way MHP has lived during her contract there. She does not only show her talent as a fascinating volleyball player but also her way in her intercultural interaction with the people there.
Some of MHP’s activities are impressive. One of the video clips uploaded on the Facebook account is about her act of teaching the Indonesian language to her team members. Besides that, there are some interactions that show a cultural exchange between Korea and Indonesia. The acts of understanding and experiencing in their relationship during the match on the volleyball courts.
From my observation above, I have an idea of suggesting the ASEAN countries to have cultural exchange programs through not only education but also sports. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) stands as a regional cooperation, promoting peace, stability, and prosperity among its member states. While economic and political integration remain vital pillars, the significance of cultural exchange cannot be understated.
Historical Context Cultural exchange among ASEAN countries traces its roots back centuries. It can be characterized by intricate networks of trade, migration, and shared cultural practices. The region’s diverse heritage has contributed to its vibrant tapestry of cultures. It comprises various ethnicities, languages, religions, and traditions, Historical interactions, such as the maritime Silk Road and ancient trade routes, facilitated the exchange of ideas, beliefs, and artistic expressions. All of these can enrich the cultural fabric of Southeast Asia.
The Cultural Exchange Cultural exchange is important for promoting mutual respect, tolerance, and appreciation for diversity among ASEAN nations. It can also bridge the linguistic, religious, and geographical barriers. Even, it can foster connections and nurtur a sense of belonging within the region. By celebrating cultural heritage and promoting intercultural dialogue, ASEAN countries can cultivate a shared identity while preserving their distinctiveness.
Again, a cultural exchange contributes to soft diplomacy. It can also enhance people-to-people ties and build trust and cooperation among member states. Through cultural diplomacy initiatives such as sport games, festivals, exhibitions, and exchange programs, ASEAN countries can showcase their rich cultural heritage, promoting a positive image internationally and strengthening diplomatic relations.
Fostering Unity and Understanding International cultural exchange holds the key to fostering unity and understanding among ASEAN countries. By promoting cultural literacy and intercultural competence, through sports games, individuals can develop empathy, respect, and appreciation for diverse perspectives. Educational exchanges are also important because these can enhance student mobility programs, and language immersion initiatives enable young people to learn about different cultures firsthand, breaking down stereotypes and fostering cross-cultural friendships.
Furthermore, cultural exchange fosters economic opportunities and sustainable development within the region. Creative industries, tourism, and heritage conservation initiatives contribute to job creation, economic growth, and community empowerment, driving inclusive and sustainable development across ASEAN countries.
Learning from the MHP’s experience through sports games, we can have an idea of the international cultural exchange among ASEAN countries. Promoting dialogue, and fostering mutual understanding can be done through not only education but also sports. ASEAN nations can build a more cohesive and resilient community. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, cultural exchange serves as a key point of hope, uniting us in our shared humanity and collective aspirations for a better future.
Dr. Djuwari is an Associate Professor at Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya (UNUSA) Indonesia. Surabaya, the editor of some research journals in the Philippines and Indonesia. He is also a journalist in some newspapers in Indonesia; the President of International Association of Scholarly Publishers, Editors, and Reviewers (IASPER), a small business owner of Djuw Café.
