HSE Graduate School of Business Students Explore Indonesian Business and Culture
This ten-day program offered a deep dive into the business landscape of Southeast Asia, with a special focus on Social Impact. The curriculum was designed to go beyond theory, allowing participants to immediately apply their knowledge by developing real entrepreneurial projects tailored to Indonesia’s cultural context and social needs. The central task for students was to create a project titled “Doing Business in Indonesia.” They studied the characteristics of the Indonesian business environment, local market dynamics, and socially oriented business practices. Particular attention was paid to social impact, as students analyzed the potential of projects that could simultaneously generate economic value and address pressing social challenges.
A key component of the program was company visits. In Jakarta, students explored the production of tempeh, a traditional fermented soybean product, learning about its manufacturing process and discussing the development of small and medium-sized businesses in this sector. In Bandung, they visited Kopi Warga, a coffee company focused on sustainable development and support for local farmers. Students learned about modern coffee cultivation and processing methods and engaged with local entrepreneurs to discuss industry challenges and opportunities.
The final day of the program highlighted social entrepreneurship and Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. Students visited Komunitas Hong, a non-profit organization in Bandung dedicated to preserving, studying, and promoting traditional Indonesian games. This visit demonstrated how civil society initiatives could effectively support national identity and community development while complementing the business sector.
"The academic trip to BINUS University provided our students with a unique opportunity for deep, hands-on immersion in the dynamic Southeast Asian market. Developing the Doing Business in Indonesia project allowed for intensive collaboration with Indonesian students. This cross-cultural partnership offered insights and local knowledge that cannot be found in textbooks.
The strategic significance of this experience lies in understanding the Indonesian business landscape. As the largest economy in ASEAN, Indonesia is a key growth driver in Southeast Asia and a strategic destination for international expansion. Experiencing daily interactions with Indonesian colleagues gave students critical professional insight into the logic, scale, and potential of this market. Such practical exposure nurtures the systemic, global thinking essential for developing strategies in today’s complex geopolitical and economic environment".
Alena Korobochkina, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Strategic and International Management
The trip provided students with a unique cross-cultural and practical learning experience, significantly broadening their professional horizons in international management and social entrepreneurship in one of the world’s most rapidly growing regions.
“The Autumn School at BINUS University was a truly unique experience that allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the specifics of Indonesian business. We communicated extensively with local students, many of whom are already building their own businesses in Indonesia, visited several local companies, and attended lectures on entrepreneurship in the country. The cultural dimension was equally important. Visits to traditional parks and local communities enriched our understanding of how business culture is shaped in Indonesia. During the trip, we had the opportunity to live in BINUS University student housing, take part in presentations, and work on projects with BINUS mentors. This level of immersion into university life was truly impressive and helped me experience firsthand the Indonesian style of education. I am very grateful to the International office for this opportunity and for organizing such an inspiring trip”.
Elina Sokolova, 4th-year Bachelor’s in Marketing and Market Analytics
“This trip gave us valuable experience immersing ourselves in both the business environment and the culture of the country. We learned about the specifics of doing business in Indonesia, which helped us better understand the local market and how companies operate. We also actively collaborated with BINUS students, working on a sustainability-focused project and spending our free time together. This made the program especially warm, engaging, and memorable. Over two weeks, I was able to see the country from many different perspectives, broaden my horizons, and make new connections. Participating in the program was an inspiring international experience for which I am truly grateful”.
Ekaterina Rodionova, 2nd year Master’s in Marketing: Digital Technology and Marketing Communications
"The trip to Indonesia was a true escape from gloomy November days.
For me, the face of this sunny country was the BINUS students themselves. Interaction with local students proved to be one of the program’s strongest aspects. Working in mixed teams, we developed an ESG startup project and quickly became a close-knit group. Every evening after classes, we spent time together, enjoying great food and exploring the city.
On our final night, all 24 of us gathered in a private room at a local restaurant that had already begun to feel like home.
There weren’t many lectures, but they were highly practical and immediately applicable. BINUS professors spoke about cross-cultural communication and the distinctive traits of Russian and Indonesian cultures. It was fascinating to notice these differences so quickly in real life.
Company visits complemented the program perfectly. In Bandung, coffee shops are true social hubs, and we even attended a talk by the founder of one of the city’s trendiest cafes!
In just ten days, we experienced so much that keeping a Telegram channel was the only way for me to stay organized. I share there my impressions of Indonesia, academic mobility in Hong Kong and India, consulting work, studies, and student life.
A country full of greenery and incredibly welcoming people greeted us with warmth and left us with new friendships and lasting memories. Thank you for your hospitality, Indonesia".
Victoria Makovskaya, 4-th year Bachelor’s in Marketing and Market Analytics
"Studying in Indonesia was my first experience participating in an HSE mobility program. More than two weeks have passed since I returned to Russia, and I am still deeply impressed. It was amazing to get to know the local culture, people, and traditions. I would especially highlight the lectures and group projects, which helped us gain a deeper understanding of the local business environment: how it operates, what drives its growth, and what challenges entrepreneurs may face when building their own companies. Overall, I was extremely satisfied with the trip. I returned with a wealth of new knowledge and just as many new connections, both among HSE students and Indonesian peers.
P.S. I am already collaborating with some Indonesian students on business projects. They are helping me with design for my own startup".
Denis Ripa, 4-th year, Bachelor’s in Supply Chain Management and Business Analytics