Keumala Dyer-Darmawan is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from The University of Sydney. Keumala undertook the Flexible Language Immersion Program (FLIP) in 2025.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the Acicis program?
I decided that I wanted to undertake an Acicis program I want to become more fluent in Bahasa Indonesia, connect with Indonesian culture, and boost the bilateral partnership between Indonesian and Australia.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
Yes, it was able to help me with university fees and flight tickets.
Q: What classes/units are you currently enrolled in?
I am currently taking language classes through the Faculty of Cultural sciences at UGM through the Indonesian Language and Cultural Leaning Services. My classes focus on grammar, listening, speaking and writing. I also take multiple classes in the Faculty of Sociology and Politics including Global Social movements and Australian-Indonesian Relations.
Q: Are you involved in any clubs/societies at the university?
I have engaged in events with the Office of International Affairs at UGM volunteering to visit an Islamic boarding school to participate in the 2025 cultural festival. The office of International Affairs hosts many events which engage international students with local communities through special events and language exchanges.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the Flexible Language Immersion Program influence your future career or study?
Indonesian and Australian relations are extremely important especially due to our close bilateral partnership and proximity. Although Indonesia is facing a decline within the Australian education system, I think it is still necessary to learn Bahasa Indonesia as the relationship between the two countries is only getting stronger. I hope to use the language skills which I have gained through INCULS for future job prospects that can help foster this relationship.
Q: How different is in-country Indonesian language learning to your previous experiences in an Australian classroom environment?
It is extremely different. Speaking from my experience, in Australia I was only learning Bahasa Indonesia for 4 hours a week, not practicing any language skills but learning content about Indonesian culture. In Indonesia, not only do you learn about Indonesian culture and history through real life engagement with society, but you are forced to engage in the language. Alongside the multiple classes which I take every week, I practice my Indonesian speaking with locals, going to the markets, travelling, bargaining, ordering food, or even listening to the surrounding environment. Everyday I feel like I am learning even when I am not studying.
Q: Did you undertake an internship or volunteering while in Indonesia?
Yes I have been volunteering with PPMK. Within this organisation my role is to help the village kids learn English. It is a great organisation with a genuine focus on helping women from the Bantul area who suffer from poverty through the promotion of small businesses. I feel very grateful to be able to work with this organisation which focuses on the practical elements of social justice.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Yogyakarta?
Usually I spend time hanging out at the local cafe with my friends, trying new restaurants, thrift shopping, exploring different areas in the city, going out at night, going to the gym or studying.
Q: What challenges did you face during your program and how did you overcome it?
Honestly the biggest challenge I have faced whilst being here was during the beginning of the program. It is hard trying to navigate a new city, culture, people and accomodation. However, once I settled in these issues were resolved. The best way to overcome issues like this is to embrace the culture.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase? Why?
Kepo – I like this word because it means nosy/wanting to know everyone’s business. I think its funny because it relates to a lot of people in Indonesia especially when you get asked a lot of personal questions.
Q: What’s the most interesting new discovery or story during your stay in Indonesia?
My favourite adventure was my trip to Sumatra during Idul Fitri. During my time in Sumatra I was able to go to Bukit Lawang and complete the 2 day jungle trek here. I was able to spend the night in the Sumatran jungle and saw multiple orangutans up close and personal! after Bukit Lawang I also spent a little bit of time in LakeToba and Aceh.
Q: Will you recommend Acicis to other students?
Yes of course. Indonesia is a great country with such beautiful culture and people. I think studying in Indonesia is such a special and wonderful opportunity which most people should experience, especially if you are interested in Bahasa Indonesia or the Australian-Indonesia partnership.
Q: Favorite Indonesian food / favorite place to eat?
Spesial Sambal – the best place ever. You can get cheap/fresh food here and it is amazing. I always go with my group of friends and we order the same thing every time – Sambal, tempeh, terong, ca kankung, pecel, ayam paha negeri.
