Between February 10th and 12th, 2026, I had the pleasure of visiting Universitas Sriwijaya (UNSRI) in Palembang, Indonesia, which is conveniently located just ninety minutes away from Kuala Lumpur. This visit was a significant step in strengthening our academic ties, beginning with an insightful meeting with the Vice Rector III and rheumatology specialist, Prof. Dr. dr. Radiayati, alongside Assoc. Prof. Dr. dr. Nita Parisa. Our discussions were focused on concrete activities such as co-supervision, publication, student activities and identifying matching grant opportunities. This momentum continued during our meeting with the Rector of UNSRI, Prof. Dr. Taufiq Marwa, where we explored the longterm potential of our current and future collaborations.

Beyond the formal meetings, we were honored to spend time with the former Rector, Prof. Dr. Ir. H. Anis Saggaf, who led us on a wonderful tour of the university grounds. A highlight of the tour was visiting the beautiful An-Nabawi Mosque, a structure deeply inspired by the Nabawi Mosque in Medina. Our hosts, including Pak Agung, Pak Bimo, and Pak Arie, ensured we felt truly welcome by introducing us to the local culture. We thoroughly enjoyed a treat of Pempek and Pindang patin, the city’s famous savory delicacy, and even brought home some of the region’s renowned avocados as a souvenir of our trip.

Palembang served as a profound setting for this exchange because it is one of the oldest inhabited cities in Southeast Asia. Long before it was a modern academic hub, it was the capital of the powerful Srivijaya Empire, a maritime kingdom that served as a global center for Buddhist learning and trade as early as the 7th century. It is fitting to continue this legacy of knowledge sharing in a city that has been a bridge for scholars for over a thousand years. I am deeply grateful for the warm hospitality we received and look forward to our next meeting.