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Expanding cultural and linguistic horizons through traditional medicine for inbound students from Université de Limoges, France

The immersive atmosphere of traditional massage training for inbound students from Université de Limoges
The immersive atmosphere of traditional massage training for inbound students from Université de Limoges

UNAIR NEWS – Faculty of Vocational Studies continues to strengthen its global presence by hosting the Part-Time Student Inbound program on Thursday, February 5, 2026. This year, French students were introduced to a curriculum combining Indonesian linguistic skills with traditional wellness practices. The session featured hands-on demonstrations of traditional massage and the preparation of lulur (herbal body scrub), to showcase the essence of Indonesian heritage under the guidance of an expert team from the Traditional Medicine Study Program.







“This activity is more than just a basic academic visit; it is a strategic initiative to introduce our national identity, we provide a learning experience ranging from delve deeper into the Nusantara linguistics to the art of traditional wellness, which is a hallmark of our local wisdom” said the Dean of the Faculty of Vocational Studies, Prof. Dian Yulie Reindrawati, S.Sos., M.M., PhD., in the opening remarks.

As an initial step, Angkita Wasito Kirana S.Hum., M.Hum., a lecturer in the English Study Program, provided participants with a deeper understanding of the Indonesian language in a health context. This session was delivered through a presentation titled “Cultural Context of Indonesian Traditional Remedies,” which was designed to offer comprehensive insights into the close relationship between local cultural values and traditional health practices in Indonesia.

Lecturers and students of the Faculty of Vocational Studies pose for a group photo with inbound exchange students. (Photo: Faculty of Vocational Studies Documentation)
Lecturers and students of the Faculty of Vocational Studies pose for a group photo with inbound exchange students. (Photo: Faculty of Vocational Studies Documentation)

As an initial step, Angkita Wasito Kirana S.Hum., M.Hum., a lecturer in the English Study Program, provided participants with a deeper understanding of the Indonesian language in a health context. This session was delivered through a presentation titled “Cultural Context of Indonesian Traditional Remedies,” which was designed to offer comprehensive insights into the close relationship between local cultural values and traditional health practices in Indonesia.

Following the theoretical sessions, the program offered a hands-on look at Indonesian wellness through a traditional massage workshop. Led by experts Myrna Adianti S.Si., M.Kes., PhD., Dwi Setiani Sumardiko S.Kep., Ns., M.Si, and Edith Frederika Puruhito S.KM., Msc., the demonstration showcased techniques designed for deep relaxation. This session provided the inbound students with a fresh perspective on the Indonesian health system, highlighting its profound focus on both artistry and comfort.

The journey into traditional health continued with a deep dive into holistic body care. After the massage session, the expert team explained the benefits of lulur (herbal body scrub) and demonstrated how to prepare it. The students were shown how natural ingredients sourced from the Indonesian land are transformed into effective tools for beauty and wellness.

To round out the authentic experience, participants were served traditional herbal drinks: kunyit asam (turmeric acid) and beras kencur (rice ginger). Rather than just tasting the drinks, the students learned about the specific composition and the philosophy behind every ingredient used, providing a complete sensory and intellectual experience.

The program concluded with an interactive discussion and a certificate ceremony as an appreciation for the enthusiasm shown by the students from Université de Limoges. By integrating linguistic theory with wellness practices, this inbound program is expected to catalyze broader international collaborations, further solidifying Universitas Airlangga’s position as a leading institution in preserving local heritage amidst the currents of global modernization.

Author: Fasya Ineta Putri

Editor: Yulia Rohmawati