In the heart of Hainan Free Trade Port, Indonesian language teacher Ye Lingling is building bridges between cultures. Since moving to the Chinese mainland province of Hainan in 2019, she has welcomed global learners into her classroom and guided them on a journey through Bahasa Indonesia and the rich traditions of her homeland.
For Ye, language is more than grammar and vocabulary—it’s a portal into everyday life, from traditional dances to regional cuisines. “Language is a key to understanding a country,” she says, beaming as her students enthusiastically master new phrases. Her classes often feature hands-on activities, like preparing sambal or exploring the rhythms of gamelan music, turning each session into an immersive cultural experience.
Ye’s students come from diverse backgrounds—young professionals, university students and digital nomads—all eager to expand their horizons. Many have expressed a newfound interest in visiting Indonesia, inspired by her lessons on Bali’s art scene, Jakarta’s urban pulse and the lush rainforests of Sumatra.
Looking ahead, Ye welcomes the growth and connectivity promised by the Hainan Free Trade Port. With streamlined travel policies and expanding trade ties, she anticipates even more opportunities for cross-border exchanges, study tours and cultural festivals that will connect Indonesia regionally and beyond.
As the world becomes more interconnected, Ye Lingling’s story is a reminder that at the intersection of language and culture lies the power to bring people together. For young global citizens seeking authentic experiences, her classroom in Hainan is already a launchpad for new adventures and collaborations.
Reference(s):
Ye Lingling: A Cross-Cultural bridge builder in the free trade port
cgtn.com
