Yogyakarta, 11/2/2025 – The Department of History, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada held a significant book discussion titled ‘The Opium King of Yogyakarta: Memoirs of Kho Ho Sing 1823-1878.’ The event took place in the Auditorium Room on the 7th floor of Soegondo Building, attracting a diverse audience interested in cultural history and the complexity of cultural diversity in Indonesia.

The discussion featured three prominent speakers: Dr Abdul Wahid, M.A., Dr Leonard C. Epafras, and Dr Sri Margana. Each speaker provided a unique perspective on the life and legacy of Kho Ho Sing, a pivotal figure in the history of Yogyakarta, whose memoirs reflect the hybrid cultural identity of the Chinese and Javanese communities in Indonesia.

Afterwards, the discussion was rounded off with a Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to interact with the speakers. One of the interesting questions was about the relationship between Kho Ho Sing and the Sultanate of Yogyakarta. The speakers explained how Kho Ho Sing’s relationship with the sultanate reflects the intricate ties between different cultural groups in Yogyakarta.

The event not only highlighted the historical significance of Kho Ho Sing but also emphasised the broader theme of cultural diversity in Indonesia. It served as a reminder of the importance of recognising and celebrating the various cultural influences that have shaped this nation.

As part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting cultural diversity, this discussion aimed to encourage a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s multicultural heritage. The speakers encouraged the audience to appreciate the rich cultural exchanges that have taken place throughout history.

In conclusion, the book discussion on ‘The Opium King of Yogyakarta: Kho Ho Sing’s Memoir 1823-1878’ was a successful event that brought together academics, students and cultural enthusiasts. The event provided valuable insights into the hybrid cultural identities that define Indonesia and emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting cultural diversity in contemporary society.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 11/2/2025 – Universitas Gadjah Mada’s Senate Hall was filled with enthusiasm and pride as the university celebrated the inauguration of Prof. Dr. Suhandono, M.A. as Professor in the Faculty of Humanities, specialising in Anthropological Linguistics. The event took place on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, and was attended by distinguished faculty members, students, as well as guests from various academic institutions.

In his speech, Prof Suhandono emphasised the importance of positive discourse analysis within the framework of ecolinguistics. He explained how language not only reflects speakers’ views on the environment, but also influences the way they think and act towards it. This link between language and environmental awareness is particularly important in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education.

Prof. Suhandono points out that while language alone may not hold the key to solving environmental problems, it has a significant role in shaping people’s attitudes and behaviours. He argues that through education, individuals can be equipped with the linguistic tools necessary to engage in meaningful discussions about environmental conservation and sustainability.

Source: Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Ebid El Hakim

One of the key examples he provides is the concept of ‘wit angker,’ or haunted trees, which serve as a cultural strategy for environmental conservation. This traditional practice highlights how local wisdom and language can contribute to sustainable practices, demonstrating the interplay between culture, language and environmental management.

The professor further explained how positive discourse can encourage a sense of environmental responsibility. By promoting narratives that celebrate nature and encourage sustainable practices, educators can inspire students to become active participants in environmental conservation efforts. This is in line with the SDGs’ focus on quality education and sustainable communities.

In closing, the celebration of Prof Suhandono’s achievements serves as a reminder of the vital role education plays in shaping a sustainable future. By harnessing the power of language, we can develop a deeper understanding of our environment and empower individuals to take action for a better world.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 8/2/2025 –The spirit of togetherness and sportsmanship colored the badminton tournament held by the Faculty of Cultural Sciences Universitas Gadjah Mada on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at the Lembah Sports Building of Universitas Gadjah Mada. The event, which is part of the Faculty’s 79th Anniversary celebration series, was lively with active participation from the entire academic community.

The organization of this tournament is not only held to compete, but also a moment to strengthen the relationship between the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM Academic Community. High enthusiasm can be seen from the participation of six teams competing, namely the Red Team, White Team, Yellow Team, Blue Team, Green Team, and Orange Team, each of which fielded six players consisting of several parties, namely men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles.

Since morning, the area of the Lembah Sports Building of Universitas Gadjah Mada has been filled with participants and supporters from various teams. Before the match began, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si., gave a warm welcome to all academicians present. The activity continued by warming up and following the drawing procession to determine the first ball. The cheers and applause of the audience echoed in the match area, creating an atmosphere full of enthusiasm and kinship.

Entering the final, the match between Team Blue and Team White was fierce for first place. Both teams played their best, entertaining the audience with spectacular actions on the court. After a thrilling match, the Blue Team finally won the title by winning the first, second, and third men’s doubles matches.

The tournament was closed with a group photo between the Blue Team, White Team, and Yellow Team who won the first, second, and third place. The badminton tournament organized by FIB UGM is proof that sports can be an effective medium to build togetherness and develop the potential of the academic community outside the academic field.

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

Yogyakarta, 3/2/2025 – Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a ceremonial event to mark the demolition of Buildings A and B. This event took place at the connecting bridge between the two buildings, symbolizing a significant step in the development planning of the faculty. The demolition is part of a larger initiative to replace the old structures with modern facilities that better serve the needs of students and faculty alike.

The demolition of Buildings A and B has been officially announced and is currently open for bidding on the national auction portal. Interested parties can find more information at [this link](https://portal.lelang.go.id/lot-lelang/detail/1032493/UGM-Paket-gedung-dan-bangunan-untuk-dibongkar-di-lingkungan-FIB-di-Kabupaten-Sleman.html). This project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the area of sustainable infrastructure and urban development.

The ceremonial event, known as “Selametan,” is deeply rooted in Javanese culture and philosophy. It serves as a way to express gratitude and seek blessings for the future. The centerpiece of the celebration was a traditional “tumpeng,” a cone-shaped rice dish that symbolizes aspirations reaching towards the heavens. The tumpeng represents the masculine aspect of life, while the surrounding dishes reflect the feminine, emphasizing the balance and complementarity of both forces.

During the event, the attendees shared a meal that included various traditional foods, such as “ingkung,” a whole chicken that symbolizes humility and submission. This dish was presented in a way that reflects the spirit of togetherness and respect for the process of change. The gathering was not just a farewell to the old buildings but also a celebration of new beginnings.

The five-colored tumpeng served during the ceremony represented the concept of “pajupat,” symbolizing the duality of human desires and the need for purification. This aspect of the celebration highlighted the importance of self-reflection and the journey towards personal and communal growth. The event was a reminder that development planning is not just about physical structures but also about nurturing the community’s spirit.

As part of the celebration, attendees enjoyed “jajan pasar,” traditional snacks that reflect the evolving tastes of society. This element of the event emphasized the importance of adapting to change while honoring cultural heritage. The presence of “pisang,” or bananas, symbolized unity, as one bunch represents the strength of togetherness in facing the future.

The peak of the tumpeng, shaped like an egg, symbolized the embryo of life, representing new beginnings and the potential for growth. This imagery resonated with the faculty’s vision for the future, where new ideas and innovations can flourish in a supportive environment. The event also included offerings of chili, representing the act of seeking blessings and guidance from higher powers.

Beverages served during the ceremony included natural sources from the earth, such as coconut water, coffee, and tea, symbolizing the connection between nature and human life. This aspect of the celebration reinforced the importance of sustainability and the need to respect and care for the environment as part of the development planning process.

In conclusion, the Selametan event for the demolition of Buildings A and B at FIB UGM was not just a ceremonial farewell but a meaningful reflection on the values of community, growth, and sustainability. As the faculty embarks on this new chapter, the spirit of togetherness and cultural heritage will continue to guide its development planning efforts. The complete documentation could be accessed at https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFrmvw2SPtp/.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 28/1/2025 – As the host of Temu Budaya Nusantara (TBN) XXX Imbasadi, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) remains serious in the competition that is part of the big series. The earnestness of the UGM delegation, represented by ten students of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program, paid off with championships in three branches of the competition, including the following:

1. 1st place in the National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTIN) – Haryo Untoro, Daffa Pharaja Mustofa, and Miktahul Ulumudin

The work competed in LKTIN has the title Implementation of Asthabrata Concept as the Foundation of Generation Z Life. This study raises the material object in the form of Asthabrata’s leadership concept in Yasadipura I’s Serat Rama, which turns out to be relevant and can be a life guide for generation Z.

2. 1st place in Batik Design Competition – Meifira Arini Pitaloka

The batik designed by Meifira Arini Pitaloka presents a butterfly with various batik motifs on its wings, as well as other supporting motifs. From her work, there is an in-depth philosophy of Indonesian culture as the identity of the people of the archipelago, with its various forms, patterns, and philosophies, and continues to live and develop throughout the ages.

3.     3rd Place in Storytelling Competition – Ghibran Arsha Daffa’ Musaffa’

Ghibran Arsha Daffa’ Musaffa’ presented a story entitled Nyai Rangga Wati. The story focuses on the quarrel between a couple, Joko and Wati, in Malioboro. During the argument, Joko did not want Wati to continue her desire to become a Jathilan player, which he considered an ancient and backward art. The argument ended with their relationship breaking down. In the end, Wati continued to pursue her dream as a Jathilan dancer and was dubbed by the community as Nyai Rangga Wati.

Imbasadi’s XXXth Nusantara Cultural Gathering took place over five days, from November 11-15, 2024. The event themed Manggala Gajah Mada: Ancala Raksi Budaya ‘Pioneer Gajah Mada: Bagai Gunung Pengharum Budaya’ took place with a variety of events, such as various competitions, batik, tilik UGM, until the peak night in the form of awarding champions, wayang kulit performance of the Gajah Mada Kridha play, and cultural tours to Pura Pakualaman.

There are seven (7) competitions held, namely cultural performances, National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTIN), fairy tale competition, batik design competition, Tiktok archipelago competition, documentary film competition, and essay competition.

The delegates who participated in the event consisted of the 3 youngest batches, from the batch of 2022 there was Haryo Untoro, then from the batch of 2023 represented by Meifira Arini Pitaloka and Nisrina Almasevi, while the batch of 2024 was represented by Dhaffa Pharaja Mustofa, Ghibran Arsha Daffa’ Musaffa’, Harvesto Qodam Sahaja, Miktahul Ulumudin, Nurcholish Ramadhan, Noviyanti Alfitri, and Shabrina Fitra Azzahra.

With the implementation of the XXXth National Cultural Meeting, it is hoped that it can generate enthusiasm for students to continue to appreciate, explore, preserve, and develop traditional and cultural heritage in Indonesia. The existence of the TBN-XXX can also be a place to strengthen the relationship of students of regional language and literature study programs throughout Indonesia, and unite the spirit to realize the goals of sustainable development for the advancement of national civilization. 

Our gratitude goes to all parties who participated in supporting and organizing this activity. Thank you also to all students majoring in regional literature throughout Indonesia who have attended and tried together to preserve and enliven the diversity of Indonesia in full harmony. Hopefully in the future, Imbasadi can present real efforts in cultural preservation and spread benefits to the people of Indonesia. 

Indonesia is diverse, Imbasadi unites

[Public Relation Javanese Literature FIB UGM, Haryo Untoro]