After a week filled with academic learning, cultural immersion, and meaningful exchanges, the final day of SUNTROPiS 2025 Summer School finally arrived. The atmosphere in the theater hall of the Prof. Dr. H. Masjaya, M.Si. Building was charged with both festivity and sentimentality, as participants, buddies, and committee members gathered for the much-anticipated closing ceremony.

The event opened with a captivating performance of the Dayak Tanarasa Dance, gracefully presented by the renowned Sanggar Seni Mustarlangsayuq. The traditional choreography, accompanied by rhythmic music and vibrant costumes, embodied the spiritual and cultural wealth of Kalimantan. This performance was more than just an artistic showcase; it symbolized the values of harmony, respect for diversity, and interconnectedness—principles that had been woven throughout the entire SUNTROPiS journey.

Following this cultural opening, the certificate awarding session was conducted as a formal recognition of every participant’s commitment during the program. One by one, the names of participants were called, and each of them received a certificate as a token of accomplishment. The moment reflected not only the academic and intercultural experiences they had gained, but also their resilience, collaboration, and spirit of curiosity that defined the essence of SUNTROPiS 2025.

The ceremony then proceeded with an address from Dr. Sulistyo Prabowo, S.TP., M.P., M.PH., Ph.D., Head of the International Office and Excellent Program of Mulawarman University. In his heartfelt speech, he expressed deep gratitude for the smooth and successful implementation of the program. He emphasized that such achievements would not have been possible without the relentless dedication of the buddies, whose effort and commitment played a central role in guiding and supporting the international participants throughout their stay. His words resonated warmly with the audience, drawing appreciation for those who had worked diligently behind the scenes. Immediately afterward, the program was officially declared closed by Mr. Widi, symbolizing the formal conclusion of SUNTROPiS 2025.

As the atmosphere transitioned into celebration, the stage was enlivened by special performances from the participants themselves, representing their home countries. Delegates from Thailand brought their graceful cultural dance, while participants from Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka showcased spirited music and choreography. Each performance was a vivid reflection of the cultural diversity gathered under the SUNTROPiS umbrella, leaving the audience in awe of the rich traditions and artistry shared across nations. These performances were not only entertaining but also reaffirmed the central mission of SUNTROPiS: fostering cross-cultural appreciation and building bridges of understanding.

One of the most awaited sessions was the award ceremony, which highlighted the exceptional contributions of both buddies and participants. For the buddy category, the titles were given as follows:

• Favorite Buddy: Aufar, recognized for his supportive and approachable nature.
• Funniest Buddy: Kanaya, whose humor brought joy and lightness to the program.
• Loveliest Buddy: Intan, admired for her kindness and warmth.

The international participant awards celebrated outstanding achievements during the program:

• Best Participant: Abdul Aziz, for his active engagement and positive presence.
• Best Group: Tarsius Group, acknowledged for their strong collaboration.
• Best Video Project: Beruang Madu, for their creative and meaningful presentation.
• Best Chant Group: Bekantan, for their energy and unifying spirit.

The announcement of these awards was greeted with cheers, applause, and heartfelt congratulations, reflecting the bonds of camaraderie that had grown among everyone involved.

As the event drew to its final moments, the air in the hall became a mixture of joy and melancholy. Participants exchanged hugs, words of gratitude, and promises to keep in touch, realizing that what began as a gathering of strangers had now blossomed into a family bound by shared experiences. The conclusion of SUNTROPiS 2025 was not merely an end but a milestone, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, cultural appreciation, and international friendship.

In the end, the closing ceremony stood as a testament that while the program had officially concluded, the connections and memories built within it would continue to thrive. For all those present, SUNTROPiS 2025 will be remembered as a journey that shaped not only minds, but also hearts.

Reporter: RAMA