Indonesian Sisters Bridge Cultures Through Martial Arts

Jinan (ANTARA) – Zeela Nebulani and Zoura Nebulani are Indonesian siblings with ancestral roots in Fujian Province, China.

Raised in a family of martial arts practitioners, with both parents working as professional martial arts coaches, Zeela began training at the age of six and started practising Tai Chi at twelve.

In September 2024, Zeela began her studies at Rizhao Polytechnic University in Shandong Province, China, majoring in international trade. Inspired by her elder sister, Zoura enrolled at the same university in a similar programme this year.

During their time at the university, the sisters have not only focused on academic activities but have also continued their daily martial arts training. In their spare time, they have taken part in various cultural performances on campus and exchange activities with young people from China and other countries.

They have also produced bilingual short videos highlighting Rizhao’s coastal scenery, local folk traditions and daily life, which they share across social media platforms in Indonesia. They introduce Indonesian culture to their lecturers and fellow students, thereby encouraging cultural exchange between China and Indonesia.

Zeela and Zoura hope to serve as cultural bridges for the younger generation in China and Indonesia, and to contribute to strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two countries.