Cooking Nasi Goreng and Bakwan in 60 Minutes, International Scholars Master Indonesian Culinary Arts in UIN Jakarta Competition

CIPUTAT, UIN Online News – Fostering cross-cultural fellowship through gastrodiplomacy, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta organized the 2026 Culinary Culture Exchange: Indonesian Cooking Class & Fun Competition on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Centered on the theme "Discover Indonesia Through Its Flavors," the vibrant event brought together international undergraduate and graduate students currently studying in Indonesia.

Organized by the Center for International Cooperation (PLKI), the competition featured foreign scholars representing Cambodia, Uzbekistan, Thailand, Gambia, and Nigeria, alongside guest participants from Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta.

Given a strict 60-minute countdown, multinational teams were challenged to prepare three iconic dishes: Indonesian Fried Rice (Nasi Goreng), traditional vegetable fritters (Bakwan), and Chicken Katsu. A professional judging panel evaluated teams across culinary technique (20%), taste profile (40%), presentation (15%), hygiene (10%), teamwork (10%), and creative plating (5%).

Head of PLKI UIN Jakarta, Professor Arif Zamhari, Ph.D., noted that the cultural exchange serves to deepen international student integration while celebrating Indonesian heritage.

"We want our international student community to feel truly at home in Indonesia," Professor Zamhari expressed. "Food is a universal language. By mastering local dishes, our scholars develop a deeper love and appreciation for Indonesian culture during their academic stay."

Executive Chef Darfi Darli from Trembesi Hotel BSD, who served as head judge, commended the participants' enthusiasm and surprisingly authentic flavor execution.

"Their culinary execution was delicious across the board," Chef Darfi remarked. "Indonesian cuisine offers rich diversity beyond fried rice. I strongly encourage our international scholars to explore the full spectrum of Indonesian street food."

Highlighting the collaborative spirit of the event, Cambodian International Relations student Krey Amiros shared her excitement after taking second place in her very first attempt at cooking Indonesian food.

"It was an amazing experience working in a team mixed with students from Thailand and other nations," Amiros shared. "We practiced the Indonesian concept of gotong royong (mutual cooperation) in the kitchen. Learning to cook Nasi Goreng and Bakwan for the first time and winning second place was unforgettable."

By blending international student support, culinary education, and cross-border friendship, UIN Jakarta demonstrates how campus internationalization extends beyond traditional lecture halls into vibrant, shared cultural experiences.

(Nosa/Zaenal/Arifin/Photos: Tiara Abdhie)