Tech innovation enriches Indonesian's university life

Shenzhen, renowned as a global tech hub, has attracted not only visitors from around the world but also a growing number of international students pursuing higher education in recent years. Among them is Nicholas Satyaputra Lianto from Indonesia, who was drawn to the city by its thriving tech ecosystem.

Nicholas Satyaputra Lianto poses for a photo while visiting the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory in Xichong, Dapeng New Area. Photos courtesy of the interviewee

Lianto is currently pursuing his bachelor’s studies at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHK-Shenzhen). In a recent interview with Shenzhen Daily, he shared his enthusiasm for immersing himself in a technology-rich environment.

“I want to open my mind and see just how advanced these technologies are today,” he said.

Before coming to Shenzhen, Lianto knew it was a modern metropolis and home to tech giants such as Tencent. However, he didn’t fully expect what cutting-edge technologies he would encounter in the his daily life until he experienced them firsthand.

One memorable moment was when he made a payment using just his hand — no phone needed. “It was mind-blowing. I was also amazed by the drone light shows. Shenzhen is simply incredible,” Lianto recalled.

To him, Shenzhen is full of surprises. “At this point, I wouldn’t be shocked if another groundbreaking technology was announced tomorrow,” he said.

Nicholas Satyaputra Lianto poses for a photo in front of a wall carrying a classic ancient Chinese poem at Nantou Ancient Town.

Lianto’s major is data science, a field he believes is crucial in today’s digital world. “Data has become the ‘new gold.’ With everything going digital, data is everywhere — It just needs to be mined and refined. That’s why knowing how to read, analyze, and use data is so important,” he explained. “Given that Shenzhen is a global tech hub, studying data science here is the perfect choice.”

Since his arrival at CUHK-Shenzhen, Lainto has participated in various activities organized by EyeShenzhen. These events have allowed him to discover emerging technologies while also deepening his understanding for Chinese culture.

His decision to study in Shenzhen has exceeded his expectations. “The city is incredibly welcoming to visitors and foreigners. People come from everywhere but they say that once you come to Shenzhen, you’re a Shenzhener — and it’s true,” he said.

Nicholas Satyaputra Lianto and other participants pose for a group photo after visiting the 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair in May.

Located next to Hong Kong, Shenzhen offers Lianto easy access to explore another dynamic city. But what truly stands out to him is Shenzhen’s balance of high-tech development and natural beauty.

“Is it a high-tech city? Absolutely. Does it have stunning nature? Yes, and plenty of it. Cultural heritage? That too — there are ancient towns waiting to be explored,” he said, adding that he hopes to discover more of the city’s natural landscapes.

Lianto also appreciates Shenzhen’s livability. “The transportation infrastructure is well-developed and efficient. I can rent a bike anywhere, and drivers often yield to pedestrians. It’s a comfortable and cozy place to live,” he remarked.

For the future, Lianto has set his sights on working for one of Shenzhen’s tech giants, such as Tencent. Alternatively, he dreams of making a name for himself by launching his own company.