Student Short-term Mobility Program: Project and Cultural Visit

On the second day of the Student Short-term Mobility Program, a series of cultural and educational visits were organized by the Civil Engineering Department of Udayana University in collaboration with Universiti Malaya. On May 6, 2025, a group of 55 participants from both institutions departed for a Project and Cultural Visit to two iconic locations in Bali: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Turyapada Tower.

The journey to the destinations took approximately two hours due to favorable weather conditions and smooth traffic, as it was not a public holiday. The scenic drive through the central highlands of Bali offered the participants an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and local architecture that is distinct to the region.

Upon arrival at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, the group was welcomed to explore the area freely. Participants enjoyed various water sports, strolled through the gardens, and admired the tranquil lake view. Ulun Danu Beratan is a famous Hindu water temple located on the shores of Lake Beratan in Bedugul, central Bali. The temple is so iconic that its image is featured on the IDR 50,000 banknote, symbolizing its cultural and national importance.

After learning about Balinese culture and traditions, the group took a break to enjoy lunch together, fostering informal interactions among students and faculty. The visit then continued to Turyapada Tower, located in Pegayaman Village, Buleleng Regency. The journey provided a transition from cultural immersion to an engineering-centered exploration of infrastructure in highland areas.

Upon arrival at Turyapada Tower, the group was warmly welcomed by representatives from the Bali Provincial Office of Communication, Informatics, and Statistics, who serve as the project owner. Turyapada Tower, situated at over 1,500 meters above sea level, currently functions as a key telecommunications and broadcasting facility in northern Bali. Plans for Phase 2 of the tower’s development include the construction of a cultural and educational tourism complex, incorporating a skywalk, viewing platforms, and interactive exhibits to further promote digital literacy and local tourism.

The visit concluded with discussions about engineering challenges in mountainous terrain and the role of public infrastructure in supporting regional development. This unique blend of cultural insight and technical exposure provided valuable lessons for students and strengthened institutional ties between Universiti Malaya and Udayana University.