Group photo at Siring, en route to the Floating Market (Doc. Buddies)
Banjarmasin – The Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) of Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM), through the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Unit, organized a cultural field trip for international students participating in the SEA Teacher program. This activity was joined by students from the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) and Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U), Philippines, as part of their intercultural enrichment and mentoring while conducting teaching practice at FKIP ULM’s partner schools in Banjarmasin.
In the first week, the students visited the Floating Market at Lok Baintan, an iconic river-based cultural heritage of South Kalimantan. They observed traditional trading activities on boats, interacted with local vendors, and enjoyed the morning atmosphere along the Martapura River, which is an integral part of Banjar cultural identity.
Group photo on the kelotok boat en route to Riam Kanan Pine Forest (Doc. MBKM Unit)
In the second week, the field trip continued to the natural tourism area around the Riam Kanan Reservoir. The students explored a pine forest in the area, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views. This activity also served as a moment of relaxation that strengthened the bond among participants and their local student buddies.
The third week concluded with a visit to the Martapura Diamond Market, a center for gemstones and traditional crafts of South Kalimantan. The students witnessed firsthand the trading of local jewelry and learned about the history of Banjar gemstones. They then visited Lake Seran, a serene natural destination that offered a peaceful and delightful closing to the field trip series.
Group photo at Seran Lake (Doc. Buddies)
Through this activity, FKIP ULM and the MBKM Unit reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the internationalization of education and introducing the rich cultural heritage of South Kalimantan to international program participants. The field trip aimed not only to provide new experiences for the international students but also to strengthen cross-cultural collaboration and educational exchange between countries.
Group photo at Seran Lake (Doc. Buddies)
