French students embrace Malaysian cultural tapestry

In a celebration of cultural diversity, 30 French students from EFREI recently participated in the inaugural Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) Wayang Kulit La Coloration Challenge 2023.

The event, held at APU Centre Point on 2nd November 2023, provided French students with a unique opportunity to delve into Malaysian culture through the traditional art of Wayang Kulit or shadow puppetry.

French students immersing in Wayang Kulit

The Wayang Kulit La Coloration Challenge unfolded at APU Centre Point, a culturally significant venue featuring Wayang Kulit as a backdrop and immersive Gamelan music.

The challenge aimed to bridge cultural gaps as French students immersed themselves in the intricate artistry of Wayang Kulit, a traditional Kelantan form of shadow puppetry. Judged by a panel of lecturers, participants showcased creativity, precision, and artistic innovation.

Participating in this four-month exchange programme was beneficial, according to Quentin, a Computer Science student from EFREI. 

Quentin greatly loved immersing himself in local activities and found the experience to be quite enjoyable, especially when he participated in the Wayang Kulit La Coloration Challenge with his friends. 

“Everywhere we looked, there were vibrant and diverse groups of people coming together, creating a dynamic atmosphere. It was an experience like no other, and we relished every moment of it,” he said representing all exchange students from France.

Tradition and contemporary creativity

The innovation in this challenge extended beyond artistic expression. A chatbot, developed by IUCEL 2023 Gold medal winners Wong Chai Fuu and Ng Zi Yuan from APU, provided French language translation, enriching the multilingual event.

The top three winners, Quentin Adeline, Ali Nahas, and Thibault Victor Muguet Chesnel, not only secured trophies but also embraced cultural appreciation.

The event served as a bridge between tradition and contemporary creativity, allowing foreign students to infuse the ancient art form with vibrant colours and interpretations.

The APU Wayang Kulit La Coloration Challenge marked a successful cultural exchange, bringing French and Malaysian students closer through shared traditions.

Head of the School of Computing, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Tan Chin Ike, awarded prizes to the winners, emphasising the importance of such initiatives in promoting global harmony and understanding.

The event aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education and UNESCO’s culture education goals, fostering a sense of mutual respect and enjoyment of shared human heritage.

French students, through their participation, celebrated the beauty and significance of Wayang Kulit, creating a memorable and enlightening experience.