On Sunday, April 28th, 2024, participants of the De Britto International Youth Camp arrived at the Yogyakarta Sultanate Palace, eager to engage in a day of activities. The theme for the fourth day is “To Reflect”, which has a focus on activities that allow participants to reflect on the cultural practices of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The aim was to help participants appreciate the value of the local culture and inspire them to take positive action.

The participants started the day with a Eucharistic celebration led by Father Simon Arief Herdian Putra Tama, SJ. who’s also accompanied the participants from The Xavier School of Cambodia. In his reflection, Father Tama discussed the opportunity for the younger generation to unite forces, making the world a better place through various positive actions.

The day’s activities took place in three locations: the Yogyakarta Palace, Prambanan Temple, and Hamzah Batik Clothing Store. The first activity was an introduction to the Sultanate and Yogyakarta Palace, the official residence of the Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat Sultanate. Participants listened to a presentation by the grandchild of Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, who accompanied them throughout the palace. After the presentation, there was a Q&A session where participants’ enthusiasm was evident.

The Questions asked by participants ranged from the question about the region of Yogyakarta itself, the history of the Yogyakarta Palace, the meaning of symbols, to the relationship between the Yogyakarta Palace and the Yogyakarta Government. Following the Q&A, participants also had the opportunity to tour the palace grounds.

Participants from certain countries also noted similarities and differences with the monarchic systems in their own country. For example, participants from Thailand explained how their royal family is very private and strictly guards the palace from public access, in contrast to the openness of the Yogyakarta Palace, which even welcomes outside visitors. This openness impressed the participants.

After completing all activities at the Yogyakarta Palace, the group continued to Prambanan Temple. Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia and one of the major tourist destinations in Yogyakarta. Participants were in awe of the grandeur of the Prambanan Temple, especially when hearing the associated stories and myths. The enthusiasm was high among the participants while exploring the temple area. The activities at the temple concluded with participants reflecting based on earlier activities and experiences in the day  that taught them about the established culture.

The next activity was shopping at Hamzah Batik. Established in 1979, Hamzah Batik is a popular batik shop in Yogyakarta. Participants were delighted to buy many souvenirs to take to their home countries. One participant mentioned purchasing over six gifts for their family in the Philippines.

The fourth day concludes with a dinner at Pengilon Restaurant Yogyakarta. The owner of Pengilon Restaurant, Evan, an alumnus of SMA Kolese De Britto class of 2011, expressed his admiration for the many people from other countries who visit Yogyakarta and are eager to learn about the local culture.