Promoting Indonesian Language Globally: South East Sulawesi Language Ambassadors Involve UM Kendari International Students in LAIKAN BIPA Program
KENDARI – In a vibrant effort to promote the Indonesian language on an international scale, the South East Sulawesi Language Ambassadors (Duta Bahasa Sulawesi Tenggara) have officially launched their flagship program, LAIKAN BIPA (Layanan Bahasa Indonesia bagi Penutur Asing / Indonesian Language Services for Foreign Speakers). The learning series kicked off on Saturday, July 4, 2026, actively involving international students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Kendari (UM Kendari).
The inaugural meeting commenced with a pre-test session designed to assess the initial language proficiency of the international students. This program serves as a strategic collaborative platform to help foreign scholars adapt to their new environment, master the local language, and deeply immerse themselves in Indonesian culture.
Fostering Cultural Diplomacy on Campus
The active participation of international students from various backgrounds highlights UM Kendari’s growing reputation as a global and inclusive educational environment. Through the LAIKAN BIPA program, the Language Ambassadors aim to not only teach language mechanics but also bridge cross-cultural understanding, turning these international students into global ambassadors for the Indonesian language.
The university administration warmly welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that such programs are crucial in enriching the campus's diverse atmosphere and empowering foreign students to communicate confidently within the local community.
