Exploring Bali Beyond the Classroom: ECU Students Learn Currency, Market Life, and Dance
Denpasar, Bali, November 25, 2025 – The second day of the New Colombo Plan 2025 program was successfully carried out in Bali. The day began with an engaging session introducing Edith Cowan University (ECU) students to the Indonesian currency, the rupiah, as part of the BIPA (Bahasa Indonesia untuk Penutur Asing) program. This activity aimed to provide international students with practical knowledge of Indonesia’s monetary system, helping them better understand the country’s economic framework and daily transactions.
Following the classroom introduction, the students were taken on a field visit to Pasar Badung, one of the largest and most vibrant traditional markets in Denpasar. Here, they observed firsthand how economic activities unfold in Bali’s local setting. The visit allowed them to witness the dynamics of bargaining, trading, and community interactions that characterize traditional markets, offering valuable insights into the cultural and economic life of the Balinese people.
The program continued with a cultural immersion activity that highlighted Bali’s rich artistic heritage. ECU students were introduced to traditional Balinese dance, a cornerstone of the island’s cultural identity. Local instructors explained the symbolic meanings behind the movements and costumes, giving the students a deeper appreciation of the art form’s historical and spiritual significance. To conclude the day, the students were given the opportunity to practice Balinese dance themselves. This hands-on experience not only fostered cultural exchange but also strengthened their connection with the local community. The combination of economic and cultural activities provided a holistic learning experience, reinforcing the New Colombo Plan’s mission to build stronger ties between Australia and Indonesia through education, cultural understanding, and people-to-people engagement.
