"Cultural Observation in Chinatown": Hasanuddin University's BMKT Student Outing Deepens Understanding of Chinese Acculturation

The Mandarin Language and Chinese Culture (BMKT) Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Hasanuddin University, held an outing for the Chinese Society and Culture in the World course, themed "Cultural Observation in Makassar's Chinatown." This activity provided fifth-semester students with the opportunity to learn directly in the field and gain a deeper understanding of the traces of Chinese cultural acculturation developing in the region.

Students explored several key locations in Chinatown, observing cultural elements such as building architecture, religious practices, Chinese economic activities, and traditions that are still maintained and integrated with local culture. This outing provided a hands-on experience for students in connecting the theory learned in class with socio-cultural conditions in the field.

The activity concluded with a fun gathering at Fort Rotterdam, where each student group presented their observations. The presentations were interactive and offered various perspectives on the dynamics of Chinese culture in Makassar. The event also featured Mandarin-themed games, which not only added to the fun but also strengthened students' understanding of the learning material.

Through this activity, the BMKT Study Program hopes that students will gain a better understanding of the process of cultural acculturation, develop their observation skills, and foster social sensitivity to the cultural diversity around them. This outing class also served as a means to strengthen relationships among students and enrich their learning experiences outside the classroom.