Kayla Nabitha Aldikomi is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from University of Sydney. Kayla undertook the Development Studies Immersion Program (DSIP) in 2025.

 

What sparked your interest to choose Indonesia as your host country?

What inspired me to choose Indonesia as my host country was my Indonesian heritage and background. Although I was born and raised in Australia, I have always wanted to deepen my understanding of Indonesian culture and explore the diverse experiences of people across its many regions. When the opportunity arose to complete an internship in Indonesia, I was ecstatic, as it offered a meaningful chance to connect with local communities and individuals while embracing my cultural roots.

 

Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?

Yes, I do receive the New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant. I am extremely grateful for it as the grant has helped cover the cost of the DSIP program.

 

Are you involved in any clubs/societies at the university?

I have been involved in one society which is the Australian Indonesian Youth Association (AIYA). A few weeks ago, my friends and I participated in an event called ‘beads and brew’. During this event we were able to create our own beaded keychains and learn how to make wedang, a traditional Javanese drink which consists of boiling a variety of spices and herbs.

 

 

How will the Development Studies Immersion Program help your future career or study?

The Development Studies Immersion Program (DISP) has provided me with valuable insights into Indonesia’s political structures and the social climates that influence both communities and individuals. Through the program, I have learned about key development sectors such as gender, urban development, disaster management, human rights, and the environment. Gaining an understanding of these areas has helped me broaden my social work perspective and enhance my professional practice by allowing me to apply core social work values and ethics within diverse contexts.

 

How do you like to spend your spare time in Indonesia?

I was so fortunate enough to have 7 other social work students in the same program as me. So, we have been exploring the city and region together. My favourite activity to do with them is trying out new cafes and restaurants!

 

Did you undertake an internship/student community service – KKN while in Indonesia?

I am going to be doing my internship at DP3AP2 DIY (Dinas Pemberdayaan Perempuan, Perlindungan Anak dan Pengendalian Penduduk). DP3AP2 DIY is a government organisation that focuses on empowerment of women, children, and families. Although I have not officially started my internship, I was able to meet the dedicated staff members within the organisation. I am incredibly excited on starting my internship and observe how social work and community empowerment are structured and implemented in Indonesia compared to Australia. Therefore, gaining more valuable skills such as cross-cultural communication, advocacy, empowerment, and social justice.

 

Will you recommend Acicis to other students?

100% yes, ACICIS has connected us to a multitude of opportunities and experiences. The ACICIS staff have also been so incredibly helpful with our journey and made our stay here so safe and enjoyable.

 

Favorite Indonesian food & favorite place to eat?

My all time favourite Indonesian food is rendang ayam, which is slow cooked chicken in spices and coconut milk. It is super flavourful and tender. My favourite place to eat in Jogja is unfortunately not Javanese food but Sundanese food. There is a restaurant called “Sèmah sunda”, there is a variety of side dishes to choose from that are all delicious.

 

Favourite Indonesian word/phrase? Why?

My favourite Indonesian word/phrase is “ayo makan”, because food brings everyone together especially in Indonesia.

 

Watch Kayla’s experience in cooking and trying new Indonesian food here.