A Chinese-Indonesian student's architectural pursuit
TAIYUAN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- For Veldesen Yaputra, a 24-year-old Indonesian of Chinese descent, architecture is more than a profession; it serves as a bridge that deepens his understanding of Chinese culture and strengthens his love for both countries.
Over a century after his great-grandfather left China and settled in Indonesia's Pontianak, Yaputra embarked on the reverse journey.
His bond with China traces back to his childhood, when he watched Chinese news on television with his grandfather. In 2017, he began his formal education in China, completing high school in Shenzhen City before earning a bachelor's degree from Tsinghua University's Academy of Arts & Design.
Now a master's student at Tsinghua University's School of Architecture, he speaks fluent Mandarin and has immersed himself in Chinese architectural culture.
Recently, Yaputra traveled to Shanxi Province to explore ancient Chinese structures firsthand. He documented the journey through engaging short videos that showcased intricate wood carvings, vivid murals and lifelike painted sculptures.
"This tour allowed me to connect theoretical knowledge from books with real-world structures. It was an invaluable experience," he said. Seeing these buildings up close gave him deep insight into the wisdom of ancient architects.
He cited traditional rainwater management systems as an example. "The ancient Chinese approach to water was to guide it, not block it. This philosophy of working with nature is truly worth learning from," he said.
In 2024, Yaputra took part in a project designing a sika deer-themed guesthouse in a Bai ethnic village in Guizhou Province, southwest China. Completed this year, the site features deer enclosures built into the mountainside, log-built barbecue bars with thatched roofs and guest rooms decorated with traditional Bai patterns.
"Design is not just an art; it is a social responsibility. Architecture should preserve local character while adapting to modern life," Yaputra said.
He believes what he has learned in China will be applicable back home. Nusantara. In a speech on China's rural revitalization, he said, "I hope to convey to Indonesian audiences the spirit of resilience and innovation behind it."
On social media, Yaputra shares his explorations of both Chinese and Indonesian cultures, from scenic spots, Tai Chi and Peking opera to Indonesian cuisine, travel destinations and other topics.
Pontianak is home to many descendants of Teochew migrants from southern China. During the Lantern Festival, he captured the scene and wrote: "The Teochew descendants in Indonesia pass our traditions to the next generation. The lanterns symbolize our enduring spirit and our culture."
"Indonesia and China are both my homes," Yaputra said. His dream is to act as a cultural "bridge," facilitating joint projects between Chinese and Indonesian students to share practical wisdom and improve mutual understanding. ■