WEAVING WORLDS TOGETHER: WASTRA NUSANTARA’S ROLE IN CROSS-CULTURAL CREATIVE INITIATIVES”

Abstract

Internatioan university collaborations offer significant avenues for both academic advancement and fostering cros-cultural understanding. Recognizing this potential, Tarumanagara University (Untar), Indonesia and Kun Shan University (KSU), Taiwan, established a partnership aimed at enriching the cultural perspective of their respective communities. This study details a specific initiative designed to strengthen the relationship between the two institutions and promote Indonesian culture. The primary goals were to introduce the richness of Wastra Nusantara (Indonesian traditional textiles) to KSU students and to cultivate positive intercultural interactions through hands-on activities. The community engagement activity, titled “Wastra Nusantara in Creativity”, was conducted directly on the Kun Shan University campus by Untar team, involving student participants from KSU. The methodology included a direct presentation of insights into Wastra Nusantar a, supported by the study of various textile examples. Participants were then guided through creative application exercises using Kalimantan wovwn fabrics, allowing them to practical engagements with the cultural artifacts. The initiative yielded highly positive outcomes. KSU students demonstrated considerable enthusiasm for learning about Wastra Nusantara and actively participated in the creative application sessions. This engagement successfully facilitated cultural exchange, strengthened the inter-university relationship, and effectively promoted Indonesian cultural heritage through the tangible medium of Wastra Nusantara.