Last November, two representatives from the Faculty of Built Environment (FBE)- Dr Noorhayatie bt Yusof and Mdm Yon Syafni bt Samat, joined eight lecturers from the Faculty of Education, Language, and Communications (FELC) for the International Collaboration for Research, Writing, and Publication Assistance Camp. The camp, held from 20–24 November 2024, took place at Pantai Atong, Temajuk—a serene coastal village known for its unique location at the border of two nations.
The event brought together 19 researchers from various institutions, including IAIN Pontianak, UIN Raden Intan Lampung, UIN Mahmud Yunus Batu Sangkar, Badan Riset Nasional, and PGRI Pontianak. Adding prestige to the gathering was the presence of Dr. Ismail Ruslan, Representative of Rektor III of IAIN Pontianak.
A Collaborative Endeavor
The camp aimed to foster collaboration among researchers through joint efforts in research, writing, and publication. Participants explored a wide array of topics, with a special focus on the lives and identities of people residing along the border. The research delved into how settlements at the perbatasan (border) shape language, socioeconomy, socioculture, and even architecture.
A highlight of the camp was a visit to the pusat desa of Camar Bulan, where participants observed daily life and interacted with the local community. Conversations with roadside banana fritter sellers, shopkeepers, and individuals returning from the masjid after mengaji offered invaluable insights into the vibrant social fabric of Temajuk.
Discoveries and Connections
Temajuk provided an exceptional backdrop for understanding the complexities of border identity. The warmth of the local people, the bustling yet harmonious desa ambience, and the cultural intricacies left a lasting impression. Researchers not only expanded their academic horizons but also formed meaningful connections.
The experience was further enriched by Temajuk’s culinary delights. The sambals served during meals were a highlight, leaving everyone craving more and ensuring Temajuk’s flavors would never be forgotten.
Gratitude and Future Collaborations
On the second-to-last day of the camp, we were honored to be joined by Dr. Dilah Tuah, Dean of FELC, and Dr. Atta Idrawani, Dean of FBE. The evening before our departure, both deans presented potential collaboration efforts between UNIMAS and IAIN Pontianak. These discussions opened exciting prospects for future joint initiatives in the fields of language, social sciences, settlement studies, and architecture, further strengthening the ties between the two institutions and paving the way for impactful interdisciplinary research.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication for the opportunity to participate in this inspiring camp. It was a privilege to contribute to the collaborative spirit and to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between borders, culture, and identity.
As we returned, our hearts were filled with gratitude for the warm welcome, the delicious food, and the knowledge we gained. Here’s to future collaborations—kapan-kapan dijemput lagi ya! Buncissss!
Written by Yon Syafni Samat.
The research camp supports SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by focusing on the identity of border settlements, examining their socio-economic and architectural aspects. Through observations and meaningful engagement with the local community, the camp highlighted the importance of creating inclusive, resilient, and sustainable human settlements.
Additionally, the camp aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by fostering cross-border understanding and addressing questions of identity. Collaboration among researchers and interactions with the locals promoted social cohesion and strengthened partnerships, contributing to peaceful and inclusive societies.