Congratulations to the ASEAN Studies student in the Political Science Program on having their article published in Harian Surya, under the Tribun Academy column in Indonesia. Harian Surya is a local newspaper in West Java, Indonesia, that provides a platform for readers, students, and organizations to publish articles or creative works in order to develop writing skills and share knowledge.

Mr. Teerapat Kueakan, a third-year student in the Political Science Program, majoring in ASEAN Studies, has published an article titled “The Beauty of Southern Thailand’s Manora Dance” (Indahnya Tari Manora di Thailand Selatan) in Harian Surya, under the Tribun Academy column, a local newspaper in West Java, Indonesia.
This work aims to present the beauty and significance of Manora dance, a traditional folk performing art of Southern Thailand. Manora is not merely a form of entertainment, but is also closely connected to beliefs, rituals, and the way of life of local communities. The performance is highly distinctive, featuring graceful dance movements, brightly colored costumes, and a unique crown known as the “เทริด” (terid). Although society has changed over time, Manora continues to be preserved and passed down as an important cultural heritage of Southern Thailand.

Mr. Natthanan Rungreuchnachit, a third-year student in the Political Science Program, majoring in ASEAN Studies, has published an article titled “Phuket Old Town: The Charm of History and Culture” (Kota Tua Phuket: Pesona Sejarah dan Budaya) in Harian Surya, under the Tribun Academy column, a local newspaper in West Java, Indonesia.
This work is intended to present the beauty of Phuket Old Town, including its Sino-Portuguese architecture, rich history, and vibrant local culture that continues to thrive to this day.

Mr. Krittanai Bootkrut, a third-year student in the Political Science Program, majoring in ASEAN Studies, has published an article titled “The Excitement of the Loy Krathong Festival in Thailand” (Kemeriahan Loy Krathong di Thailand) in Harian Surya, under the Tribun Academy column, a local newspaper in West Java, Indonesia.
This work aims to present the Loy Krathong tradition, one of the most important cultural festivals in Thailand. The festival is held every year on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month in the Thai calendar. On this occasion, people make krathongs from banana leaves, flowers, incense sticks, and candles, and float them on rivers or lakes. The Loy Krathong tradition is also intended to ask forgiveness from Phra Mae Khongkha, the Goddess of Water, and to express gratitude to nature. In addition, it is a special time for families and communities to come together and celebrate Thai culture. Therefore, Loy Krathong is a beautiful cultural tradition that should continue to be preserved.

Ms. Piyaporn Rattanaubon, a third-year student in the Political Science Program, majoring in ASEAN Studies, has published an article titled “The Uniqueness of the Sat Duan Sip Ritual” (Uniknya Ritual Sat Duan Sip) in Harian Surya, under the Tribun Academy column, a local newspaper in West Java, Indonesia.
This work aims to present the distinctiveness of the Sat Duan Sip tradition, an important cultural tradition of Southern Thailand. The tradition is held to dedicate merit to ancestors and the deceased. Beyond being a religious ritual, it also reflects gratitude, respect for ancestors, and the strong bonds among family members, as it is a time when families come together again. Therefore, Sat Duan Sip is a valuable cultural heritage that should be preserved and passed on to future generations.

Mr. Chanathip Kaewprakong, a third-year student in the Political Science Program, majoring in ASEAN Studies, has published an article titled “A Hidden Beach Paradise on Koh Samui, Thailand” (Surga Tersembunyi Pantai di Koh Samui) in Harian Surya, under the Tribun Academy column, a local newspaper in West Java, Indonesia.
This work aims to present Koh Samui’s beaches as a tourist destination. Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most famous marine tourism destinations and a source of pride for Surat Thani Province, one of the southern provinces of Thailand. Located in Surat Thani, Koh Samui is the third-largest island in Thailand. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear sea, and distinctive coconut palm scenery. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, such as jet skiing, snorkeling around the coral reef areas surrounding the island, and watching exciting performances while relaxing by the beach.
In addition, Koh Samui is home to well-known beaches such as Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach, which offer both fun recreational activities and a peaceful atmosphere at dusk. With its natural beauty and complete tourist facilities, Koh Samui is an ideal destination for relaxation after busy working days and for those who enjoy tropical seaside tourism, one of Thailand’s unique attractions.

Mr. Nonthapat Chomkham, a third-year student in the Political Science Program, majoring in ASEAN Studies, has published an article titled “Wat Ai Khai: A Religious Tourism Site of Faith and Belief” (Wat Ai Khai: Wisata Religi dan Kepercayaan Masyarakat) in Harian Surya, under the Tribun Academy column, a local newspaper in West Java, Indonesia.
This work aims to present Wat Ai Khai, a well-known religious tourism destination in Southern Thailand, highlighting the history of local beliefs, the atmosphere of the temple, and the ongoing practice of visitors and local residents coming to pray for blessings, a tradition that continues to this day.