The Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) Program at the University of Muhammadiyah North Sumatra (UMSU) held the 2025 Handai Festival under the theme “Friendship as a Bridge of Civilization: From Local to Global” at the FKIP Auditorium, Jalan Muchtar Basri No. 3 Medan, Thursday (13/11).
Now in its second year, this international event brought together 89 international students from nine countries— the United States, the United Kingdom, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Yemen, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Nigeria. They showcased cultural parades, performances, and artistic displays.
The event was officially opened by UMSU Vice Rector III, Dr. Rudianto, M.Si., who emphasized that the festival celebrates togetherness while strengthening bonds between international students and the academic community.
“This is a celebration we share together, a moment to strengthen ties with UMSU’s international students who are learning Indonesian. With UNESCO’s recognition of Bahasa Indonesia—endorsed by the Ministry of Education—this event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate our language’s growing global presence,” he said.
He also noted that the BIPA learning approach at UMSU is designed to be enjoyable and accessible. “Mahmud from Nigeria, for example—after just two days of learning, he’s already able to interact in Indonesian. This shows how effective and enjoyable our method is,” the Vice Rector added.
He expressed hope that more international students will join in the coming year.
“Next year, we hope to welcome students from Timor-Leste. We already have students from the UK, Nigeria, and several other countries. This certainly contributes to UMSU’s growing international recognition,” he said.
He also highlighted the achievements of UMSU’s foreign students who qualified for the 2025 National Handai Festival, as well as the growing global recognition of UMSU’s BIPA lecturers.
“We are becoming increasingly well-known, especially with our BIPA Head, Dr. Cut, being selected as a finalist for an international BIPA teaching award. Hopefully, this brings blessings for all of us,” he added.
Appreciation also came from the Head of the North Sumatra Language Office, Dr. Asrif, M.Hum. “UMSU is remarkable, especially with its international achievements. I believe these recognitions—such as UMSU’s inclusion in the QS World University Rankings Asia 2026—are well deserved,” he said.
He expressed hope that, as UMSU’s BIPA Program enters its third year, it will continue to grow as a strong pillar for the university and contribute to the global advancement of Bahasa Indonesia.
Earlier, Head of BIPA UMSU, Dr. Cut Novita Srikandi, S.S., M.Hum., noted that this event is more than a routine gathering; it is a moment to build bridges of friendship among nations through language.
“This is not just a meeting—it is a bridge of friendship between countries. This festival reflects our spirit to introduce Bahasa Indonesia to the world,” she said.
Committee Chair Yulhasni, S.S., M.Si., explained that this year’s event differs from the previous one. Last year featured a full competition among participants from various countries, while this year centered on parade showcases.
The festival featured a parade of traditional foods from each country, a monologue about the city of Medan performed by a Thai student, a poetry reading titled “Language That Unites Us,” and a vocal performance.
The 2025 BIPA UMSU Handai Festival reflects the university’s commitment to promoting Bahasa Indonesia internationally through an educational, interactive, and spirited approach.
The event was attended by the Consulate of Timor-Leste in Medan, Irwan, S.E., M.M.; Alliance Française Medan representative Ayokta Ghea Merizzkah Panjaitan; representatives from BIPA Universitas Alwashliyah Medan Dr. Susy Deliani, M.Hum; and officials from the North Sumatra Language Office.
