Language Alone Is Not Enough: Students Urged to Become Indonesia-China Communication Bridges

Medan – Mandarin language skills are no longer sufficient to meet the demands of an increasingly global workplace. Amid growing interaction between Indonesia and China, the younger generation is required to become a link that bridges differences in perspective, communication culture, and ways of thinking between the two sides. This message was conveyed by communication practitioner Wendelyn Leo during a workshop titled “Beyond Translation: How Language, Communication, and Public Speaking Shape Reputation,” attended by students of the Applied Bachelor Programme in Mandarin for Business and Professional Communication at Prima Indonesia University (UNPRI) on Friday, 12 June 2026. In her presentation, Wendelyn explained that the biggest challenge in cross-cultural communication often lies not in language, but in the ability to understand the context, perspective, and expectations of different parties. “Many people think language ability is the end goal. In the professional world, however, language is merely a tool. What is more important is how we use that language to build understanding, trust, and relationships between parties with different backgrounds,” said Wendelyn. Drawing on her experience as a journalist before pursuing a career in corporate communications, Wendelyn revealed that a single word or sentence can influence the image and reputation of an individual or organisation. Through various international case studies, participants were invited to understand how communication strategies are built, from determining key messages and understanding target audiences to reading trends, constructing narratives, and building relationships and trust with the public. According to Wendelyn, Mandarin language students have a distinct advantage because they are in a position that allows them to understand two different environments simultaneously. “Your role is not just translating language. You can also become a bridge that helps both sides understand each other’s ways of thinking, ways of communicating, and differing expectations. That ability is increasingly needed in today’s job market,” she said. Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Applied Bachelor Programme in Mandarin for Business and Professional Communication at UNPRI, Mei Lisa, B.Ed., MTCSOL, stated that the workshop was presented to strengthen students’ competencies beyond linguistic aspects. “Language is a tool, but communication is its impact. Someone can be fluent in Mandarin, but without good communication skills, the message conveyed may be less precise, even risking miscommunication. Therefore, language ability alone is not enough. Students need to be able to convey messages effectively,” she said.