Crossing Continents for Knowledge: Unhas Lecturer Bridges Indonesia and Türkiye in Global Tourism Congress Aqilah Nurul Khaerani Latif, lecturer from the Department of Tourism, Hasanuddin University (UNHAS), represented Indonesia at the 6th International Congress on Tourism, Economy, and Business (ICTEBS) held in Bandırma, Türkiye, from 30 October to 1 November 2025. The congress, hosted at Hotel Grand Asya, gathered international scholars and practitioners to discuss recent developments in tourism, economy, and business. Aqilah was the sole delegate from Indonesia, presenting her research and building academic connections between Indonesia and Türkiye.

“I am honored to represent UNHAS and Indonesia. This congress is not only about research presentation but also about building bridges between countries that share rich cultural and tourism potential,” Aqilah said. The event featured keynote lectures from international experts, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Figen Karadogan (Governors State University, USA) and Dr. Rita Baleiro (University of Algarve, Portugal). Discussions covered topics such as sustainable tourism, community-based initiatives, digital marketing, and post-pandemic recovery. Participants also joined a field excursion to the Kapıdağ Peninsula, visiting heritage and sustainable tourism sites such as Kyzikos Ancient City and Zeytinli Island. Aqilah noted that the trip provided valuable insights into integrating community and environmental awareness in tourism development—lessons she hopes to apply in Indonesia. The congress organizers, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tülay Polat Üzümcü and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Samet Çevik, praised UNHAS’s participation, highlighting its contribution to international academic diversity and collaboration. Despite logistical challenges, Aqilah emphasized that her participation reflected the resilience and ambition of young Indonesian academics. “Every challenge was worth it. The experience strengthened my confidence and expanded UNHAS’s global network,” she said. ICTEBS 2025 concluded with a renewed commitment to cooperation among universities from the UK, Nepal, Türkiye, and Indonesia, through joint research and student exchanges. Aqilah’s participation underscored UNHAS’s mission to promote globally engaged scholars and advance Indonesia’s visibility in international academic forums. Source: International Office of Hasanuddin University