Semarang, 18 Mei 2025 —

The Rampoe Student Activity Unit from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has successfully secured First Place in the Ratoh Jaroe Competition, part of the Pre-Event series of the Diponegoro Art Competition (DAC) 2025. The event was held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Prof. Soedarto, S.H. Hall, Diponegoro University, Semarang. The competition featured 12 teams from high schools and universities across Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta.

In this event, Rampoe UGM presented a 12-minute Ratoh Jaroe dance performance, involving 17 dancers. The performance captivated the judges with its synchronized movements, strong energy, and vibrant expression of Acehnese cultural heritage, leading Rampoe UGM to achieve first place.

Preparations began on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM WIB at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. The team gathered for a briefing and collective prayer before departing for Semarang by ELF transportation. The group arrived at the homestay at 9:30 PM WIB to rest.

The next morning, Sunday, May 18, the team began preparations at 4:00 AM and departed for the venue at 7:10 AM WIB, arriving at the Prof. Soedarto Hall at 7:30 AM WIB. Upon arrival, the team was directed backstage for preparation and stage blocking sessions.

Rampoe UGM was scheduled to perform fourth, with a performance slot at 9:50 AM WIB. After performing, all participants engaged in icebreaking activities and informal gatherings organized by the committee.

The announcement of winners took place at 1:00 PM WIB, where Rampoe UGM was officially declared the First Place winner of the Ratoh Jaroe competition. This proud achievement is a testament to the team’s dedication and rigorous preparation process.

This victory underscores Rampoe UGM’s continued commitment to preserving and promoting Acehnese cultural arts, particularly the Ratoh Jaroe dance, on a broader stage.

Editor : Public Relation of Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Muhammad Ebid El Hakim

Yogyakarta, May 22, 2025 — On May 9, 2025, the American Studies Program successfully held a seminar titled Contemporary American Issues at the Soegondo Building 70X.

In addition to providing the audience with an opportunity to hear insights from Prof. Gade, the seminar also featured Achmad Munjid, Ph.D. as the second speaker, who delivered a talk on “Contestation on Freedom of Speech in the US Today.”

In the second session of the seminar, the discussion focused on how the concept of freedom of speech in the United States has significantly shifted—so much so that it appears citizens are only free to express their opinions as long as those opinions align with the voice of the government. This trend can be observed in various aspects of American society today.

The presentation also explored how the decline of democracy amidst the rise of globalization is driven by the emergence of anti-globalization sentiments in different parts of the world, resulting in fragmentation among individuals, including within the United States.

Beyond addressing current issues, the discussion also delved into broader events unfolding in the U.S. today and the underlying causes behind them. Examining this issue more deeply reveals that many of the changes occurring in America today are closely tied to the historical foundations of the nation.

Despite the many contradictions present in contemporary America, this discussion encouraged participants to think more critically about social equality, freedom of speech, and government transparency—both nationally and globally—as Indonesian citizens engaging with global discourse.

[Master of American Studies, Reni Renatawati]

Yogyakarta, May 22, 2025 — The Japanese Language and Culture Study Program (BKJ) of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) welcomed a visit from SMP Montessori on Thursday (22/5), held in Meeting Room 1 of the Poerbatjaraka Building, FIB UGM.

This visit was part of an early introduction to higher education for junior high school students, particularly focusing on Japanese language and culture. The delegation was warmly welcomed by the Head of the BKJ Study Program, Mr. Tatang Sumarsono, M.Hum., who expressed appreciation for the students’ interest in exploring cultural studies more deeply.

In her remarks, Ms. Rengganis Istikasari, representing SMP Montessori, explained that the visit marked the school’s initial effort to introduce students to the humanities faculty, after previously focusing more on visits to faculties in the exact sciences. “We want our students to understand what university life is like, both in terms of environment and academic substance,” she stated.

The event continued with a presentation on the vision and mission of the BKJ Study Program by Mr. Roby Winarso, M.Hum., followed by thematic lectures delivered by BKJ lecturers:

• Ms. Tuti Widiastuti, M.Hum. presented a session on Moral Education (Doutoku) in Japan, which is part of the compulsory curriculum at the elementary and junior high school levels. The session emphasized the development of students’ character through values such as sincerity, responsibility, simplicity, and self-control.

• Mr. Najih Fawaid, M.Hum. discussed the importance of aisatsu (greeting expressions) in Japanese society, which reflect politeness and social order. Expressions such as ohayou gozaimasu, konnichiwa, and yoroshiku onegaishimasu were highlighted as vital components of Japanese communication etiquette.

• Mr. Moeljadi, M.Hum. introduced the concept of omotenashi, a Japanese philosophy of service that emphasizes sincerity, attention to detail, and creating the best possible experience for others without expecting anything in return.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A segment. Aya, one of the students, asked an interesting question about ramen dining etiquette, which was enthusiastically addressed by the lecturers. The activity provided students with a direct experience of Japanese culture, not only in theory but also through interactive discussion with academic professionals.

[Public Relation of Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Muhammad Ebid El Hakim]

Yogyakarta, 21/5/25 ― Ferdeo, a graduate student of Anthropology at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), class of 2023, achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected as a Fully Funded Awardee in the prestigious SMI Youth Exchange Thailand 2025 program. He was one of the few participants who passed the rigorous selection process, including document screening, open interviews, and individual closed interviews.

In the initial selection phase, Ferdeo showcased his strengths by presenting a strong combination of academic achievement and social engagement. With a range of experiences—such as serving as UGM’s Mental Health Ambassador, Postgraduate Ambassador, and Chair of Suar Asa FIB—he demonstrated a deep commitment to social and humanitarian issues. He also participated in various short courses and international conferences, further strengthening his global profile and academic relevance.

During the program in Thailand, Ferdeo took part in a series of significant activities. He had the opportunity to visit the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) in Bangkok and engage in discussions with Dr. Cyti Daniela Aruan, the Education Attaché of Indonesia. He also attended academic sessions at two leading universities—Chulalongkorn University and Kasetsart University—which served as platforms for cross-cultural and international dialogue.

In addition, Ferdeo actively explored Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, including visits to historical landmarks such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun. In the main session of the program—a semi-debate forum—he presented Thailand’s strategies for poverty alleviation and compared them with Indonesia’s conditions. He also contributed to discussions on a variety of ASEAN issues, including smart cities in Singapore, healthcare systems in Malaysia, and maritime concerns in Brunei Darussalam.

In recognition of his outstanding participation and cultural performance—where he delivered a medley of traditional Indonesian songs—Ferdeo was honored with the title of Favorite Delegate. This award highlights his contributions not only intellectually, but also culturally and socially.

“I feel truly proud and grateful to carry the good name of the Department of Anthropology, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, and Universitas Gadjah Mada in the SMI Youth Exchange program. I hope this experience will make a significant contribution to my academic journey and future career as an anthropologist with a global perspective and a commitment to sustainability,” he affirmed.

[Public Relation of Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Muhammad Ebid El Hakim]

Yogyakarta, 08/05/2025 – Amidst the vibrant melodies of bowed strings and profound harmonies, a deeply meaningful cultural event unfolded in “Mini Concert #18: Romansa Svara (Romance of Sound)”. This classical music performance by the Gadjah Mada Chamber Orchestra (GMCO) was held on Thursday, 8 May 2025 at Taman Budaya Yogyakarta. In the elegant atmosphere that enveloped the stage that evening, one figure stood out: Oh Yeonju, a student from South Korea currently studying Indonesian at INCULS, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada.  

More than just a guest or spectator, Oh Yeonju took part as a member of the orchestra, playing the violin with passion and dedication. Alongside young musicians from across Universitas Gadjah Mada and Indonesia, she performed expressive compositions in a concert that showcased not only musical beauty but also reflected a profound cultural encounter.  

Oh Yeonju’s participation in this concert embodied the spirit of inclusivity and cross-border learning. In this collaborative artistic space, differences in background were not barriers but bridges connecting hearts and minds. Music, as a universal language, brought together individual uniqueness in a harmonious unity, creating a learning ecosystem that touched both intellect and emotion.  

“Romansa Svara” was not merely an aesthetic experience but also carried important values of cooperation, mutual respect, and growth in diversity. This was a stage where international friendships were woven naturally, not through diplomatic discussions but through notes flowing in perfect rhythm.  

Oh Yeonju’s story on the GMCO stage served as a reminder that true education extends beyond the classroom. It thrives in interaction, in the courage to try new things, and in openness to embracing differences. UGM, through platforms like GMCO and INCULS, continues to foster inspiring spaces for both local and international students to collectively shape a more harmonious, empathetic, and meaningful world.  

Amidst the thunderous applause that night which resonated as more than just musical appreciation there was a clear message: art can transcend geographical and cultural boundaries, offering hope for a more harmonious world. And among the performers, a South Korean student became part of this beautiful story, a vital note in the symphony of togetherness known as “Romansa Svara”.  

[Public Relation of INCULS, Thareeq Arkan Falakh]