Yogyakarta, 16/4/2025 – On April 15, 2025, an Open Session of the Dissertation Examination took place in the Open Session Room on the 3rd Floor of the KH. Mahrus Aly Tower at UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya. This event highlighted academic collaboration across campuses and countries. Professor Sangidu, M.Hum., a professor from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), was invited as a guest examiner, further strengthening the scientific partnership between the two esteemed institutions. The dissertation under examination was authored by Mohammed Ramadhan Abraheem Al-Shaykh Ali, an international student from Libya. His research focused on the principles of education illustrated in the stories of Sayyidina Ibrahim and Luqman Al-Hakim, exploring their relevance in shaping human character through the values of the Qur’an.

This dissertation research thoroughly examines the educational methods found in the Qur’an, particularly through the inspiring stories of Ibrahim and Luqman Al-Hakim. Utilizing content analysis, the researcher deconstructs relevant verses to uncover principles, approaches, and effective educational methods that contribute to shaping human behavior and morality. This study emphasizes that the Qur’an not only provides guidance to the right path but also offers solutions to psychological conflicts by integrating spiritual strength, reason, and self-control. These concepts have been relevant since the beginning of creation and continue to be significant today.

The presence of the Professor from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM as a guest examiner at this forum exemplifies cross-institutional and international collaboration in developing Islamic education with a global perspective. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on quality education (SDG 4), strengthening institutions (SDG 16), and fostering collaboration (SDG 17). By integrating Qur’anic values with sustainable development principles, we enrich the curriculum and enhance the role of Islamic universities in shaping a generation that is not only intellectually capable but also spiritually aware and socially responsible. This synergy aims to promote a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future while reinforcing Indonesia’s position as a hub for the advancement of progressive Islamic education on the global stage.

[Public Relation of Middle East Studies, Nafila Azzahra]

Yogyakarta, 15/4/2025 – The National Seminar titled “Modern Linguistics and Its Relevance to Islamic Studies and Humanities” was successfully held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Rabithah Hall of Pondok Modern Tazakka in Batang. The event featured Prof. Dr. Sangidu, M.Hum., a Professor at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), as the main speaker. He discussed the interpretation of QS. Al-Fath: 29 through a linguistic and humanities lens. The seminar was inaugurated by KH Anang Rikza Masyhadi, the keynote speaker, who emphasized the importance of integrating modern science with religious values to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of quality education and cultural preservation.

In his presentation, Prof. Dr. Sangidu utilized a semiotic theoretical framework to examine QS. Al-Fath: 29, employing two reading methods: heuristic and hermeneutic. The heuristic method, drawing from Al-Maroghi’s interpretation, is used to understand the literal meaning of each word. In contrast, the hermeneutic method, or retroactive approach, references interpretations from Ibn Kathir, Sayyid Quthb’s *Fi Zhilalil Quran*, and other sources to uncover the deeper meaning of the verse. This approach illustrates how modern linguistics can serve as a relevant analytical tool for understanding religious texts in a contextual and multidimensional manner.

The seminar provided a scientific forum focused on integrating modern linguistics into Islamic studies and the humanities, with the aim of enhancing the quality of education. By adopting an innovative approach to understanding religious texts, the seminar sought to enrich the curriculum for Islamic religious education and improve teaching quality. Participants—including academics, teachers, and students—welcomed the ideas presented during the event. In addition to facilitating scientific discussions, the seminar also strengthened the partnership between the Middle Eastern Cultural Studies Program at FIB UGM and Pondok Modern Tazakka. Through collaboration, the seminar is expected to make a significant contribution to the development of education grounded in religious values, while also supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Indonesia.

[Public Relation of Middle East Studies, Nafila Azzahra]

Yogyakarta, March 25, 2025 – Theories of Globalization is a mandatory course in the Department of Intercultural Studies that examines the impact of globalization from various perspectives. Globalization is understood as a phenomenon with multiple influences—both positive and negative—on culture, ecology, and the way of life of local communities. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students are encouraged to understand how globalization affects social structures and cultural identities across different parts of the world. By the end of the course, students are expected to have a more balanced perception of globalization and be able to analyze its impact on local cultures. The course is conducted through a combination of lectures, discussions, and presentations, with structured assignments and essay writing as part of the evaluation process.

In its sixth session, the course was taught by Dr. Sri Pangastoeti, M. Hum., who explored various academic perspectives on globalization, including studies from Japanese literature. One of the key topics discussed was the karayuki-san phenomenon, the role of geisha, Japan’s isolation policy, and the historical dynamics between Japan and the United States that continue to shape their cultural and political relations today.

One of the often-overlooked impacts of globalization is how the global economic system has influenced migration dynamics and the role of women in history. Labor mobility, whether voluntary or forced, has often been shaped by broader social and economic conditions. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan experienced this phenomenon, particularly in the case of women known as karayuki-san.

The karayuki-san phenomenon refers to Japanese women from impoverished areas, particularly Nagasaki, who migrated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to various countries in Southeast Asia, East Asia, Siberia, and Australia. They worked in various sectors, including entertainment and prostitution. Economic hardship and social pressures forced many young women to be sent abroad as a means of survival. The presence of karayuki-san reflects the complexity of migration in the early stages of globalization, where economic and social factors drove labor mobility across national borders.

The discussion also touched on the differences between geisha and oiran. Geisha are professional artists trained in traditional Japanese arts such as music, dance, and refined conversation. Contrary to common misconceptions outside Japan, geisha are not sex workers but rather cultural performers who preserve Japanese artistic traditions. However, geisha have often been misinterpreted, partly due to inaccurate portrayals in American popular media. Western films and literature have frequently depicted geisha as sex workers or confused them with oiran—high-class courtesans who were not only skilled in the performing arts but also provided sexual services. These stereotypes have been shaped through media framing, which simplifies and distorts the distinctions between different female roles in Japan’s past.

Another significant topic discussed in the lecture was Japan’s isolationist policy, or sakoku, which was enforced during the Edo period under the Tokugawa shogunate (1603–1868). Japan closed itself off from the outside world for more than two centuries, restricting foreign interaction to maintain political and social stability and prevent external influences. This policy only ended when the United States pressured Japan to open its ports for international trade. This event marked a turning point in Japanese history, triggering modernization and integrating the country into the currents of globalization.

Japan’s relationship with the United States continued to evolve but was not always harmonious. In the early 20th century, the United States implemented discriminatory immigration policies against Asians, including the Japanese. One of the most significant was the Immigration Act of 1924, which explicitly banned Japanese immigrants from entering the U.S. This policy was driven by anti-Asian sentiment, concerns over labor competition, and political pressure from white labor groups. Discrimination against Japanese immigrants reflected the global tensions that shaped international relations at the time.

Although Japan-U.S. relations were once marked by conflict—especially during World War II—the dynamic between the two countries continued to develop. After the war, Japan underwent reconstruction with American support, eventually becoming one of the U.S.’s closest allies in the Asia-Pacific region. Beyond economic and political cooperation, cultural exchanges between the two nations have flourished. Traditional Japanese arts have gained widespread recognition in the United States, while American popular culture, such as films and music, has had a significant influence on Japanese society.

This course is taught by a team of lecturers from various academic backgrounds, providing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding globalization. Dr. Sri Pangastoeti offered in-depth insights into how globalization has shaped Japanese culture. The discussions in this lecture emphasized that globalization is not merely about economic and technological exchange but also deeply intertwined with history, identity, and complex cultural dynamics. The interaction between Japan and the United States serves as a concrete example of how globalization shapes international relationships and continuously transforms cultural landscapes.

[Public Relations American Studies, Nariza Ayu Pasha]

Yogyakarta, March 23, 2025 – In an effort to revive the intellectual legacy of one of Indonesia’s greatest literary figures, Toko Buku Natan in collaboration with the Master’s Program in Literature at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held the Centennial Commemoration of A.A. Navis at Rumah Budaya Ndalem Natan, Kotagede, Yogyakarta. This event attracted literature enthusiasts, academics, and cultural figures eager to explore A.A. Navis’ critical thoughts and contributions to national literary development. Featuring a series of activities, including academic discussions, book launches, an art exhibition, and musical performances, the commemoration became a reflective moment that delved deeper into the social, cultural, and linguistic aspects of Navis’ works.

As one of the most influential figures in Indonesian literature, A.A. Navis gained widespread recognition for his classic short story, Robohnya Surau Kami (The Collapse of Our Mosque), which offered a profound critique of societal structures. Set during the harmonious spirit of Ramadan, this event brought together various stakeholders to discuss Navis’ legacy and critical thoughts, featuring renowned speakers such as Dhianita Kusuma Pertiwi (writer and curator), Prof. Dr. Aprinus Salam (academic and literary scholar), and Nasir Tamara, M.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. (cultural expert). The discussion was further enriched by a cello performance by Lintang Pramudia Swara, providing an aesthetic and immersive experience for the participants.

One of the event’s key highlights was the launch of the book “Kesalahan dan Kejahatan dalam Berbahasa” (Errors and Crimes in Language) by Prof. Dr. Aprinus Salam. This book critically examines language awareness within social and legal contexts. Drawing from his extensive academic and professional experience as an expert witness in various linguistic cases, Prof. Aprinus presents this book as a primary reference for linguistic studies and the role of language in Indonesia’s legal practices.

During the discussion, Prof. Aprinus Salam explored the contrast between social critiques in the works of A.A. Navis and Pramoedya Ananta Toer, highlighting how Navis focused more on critiquing societal structures, while Pramoedya directed his criticisms toward the government and power structures. Meanwhile, Dhianita Kusuma Pertiwi shared her research and archival experience for the 100 Years of A.A. Navis exhibition, held in Jakarta and at UNESCO in Paris. She traced Navis’ educational background at INS Kayutanam, an institution that played a crucial role in shaping his critical thinking, not only in literature but also in music and visual arts.

At the same time, Nasir Tamara, M.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. connected A.A. Navis’ intellectual lineage to the Académie française in Europe, particularly France, which was heavily influenced by the ideas of René Descartes. Citing Descartes’ philosophy “Cogito, ergo sum” (I think, therefore I am), Nasir Tamara emphasized that intellectual awareness and critical thinking are the foundations of a true thinker and writer. This perspective aligns with A.A. Navis’ approach to literary discourse, where he not only documented reality but also challenged, questioned, and inspired social change.

As part of the celebration, Lintang Pramudia Swara delivered a cello performance, enriching participants’ reflective experience. Meanwhile, an art exhibition by renowned artist Anagard featured 11 portraits of prominent Minangkabau figures, including A.A. Navis, Tan Malaka, Sutan Sjahrir, Buya Hamka, and Asrul Sani. This exhibition provided a visual narrative of the intellectual contributions and roles of Minangkabau figures in Indonesia’s national history.

The event also served as a space for literary appreciation, featuring poetry readings by Afnan Malay and a recital of Gurindam 12 by Raja Ali Haji, performed by Nasir Tamara, further enriching the significance and atmosphere of this literary celebration.

During the reflective session, Prof. Aprinus Salam presented two thought-provoking statements for participants to ponder. The first, “Your tongue is sharper than a sword,” underscored the extraordinary power of words in shaping, influencing, and even overturning societal structures. The second, “Words are only sharper for those who are sensitive,” highlighted language as not merely a communication tool but a profound expression with transformative power for those attuned to social and humanitarian realities.

This event was part of a broader initiative to honor great figures in Indonesian literature, following the centennial commemoration of Pramoedya Ananta Toer held earlier. Through the centennial of A.A. Navis, the discussion reinforced awareness of literacy, intellectual heritage, and its relevance to younger generations. Prof. Aprinus Salam emphasized that language possesses transformative power, envisioning a future where short story writers and poets stage protests by reciting poetry in front of legislative buildings, proving that words wield more power than physical weapons.

The event concluded with a communal iftar (breaking of the fast), not only fostering solidarity but also offering a profound reflection on the role of literature in shaping social and cultural consciousness. Toko Buku Natan, in collaboration with the Master’s Program in Literature at UGM, remains committed to facilitating academic discussions, literary forums, and various literacy initiatives to support intellectual and cultural development in Indonesia.

[Public Relations Magister of Literature, Anisa Dien Rahmawati]

Yogyakarta, 26/3/2025 – The Middle Eastern Culture & Religion Issues (MECRI) Journal has reached an important milestone by receiving SINTA 4 accreditation on Friday, March 21, 2025. Established in 2022, the journal is managed by the Middle Eastern Cultural Studies program within the Department of Intercultural Studies at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM). MECRI focuses on the study of language, literature, culture, and religion in the Middle East, providing a valuable platform for researchers to explore the complex interactions between culture and religion and their impact on global society. This accreditation reinforces MECRI’s position as a leading reference journal in cross-cultural studies, particularly regarding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4, which emphasizes quality education. 

As an academic platform, MECRI offers researchers, academics, professionals, practitioners, and students a space to share ideas through high-quality empirical and theoretical research articles. Topics covered include social, political, cultural, literary, linguistic, and religious studies related to Middle Eastern Studies. The journal publishes articles regularly in July and December and follows a strict peer-review process conducted by a team of editors and reviewers from leading universities in Indonesia and abroad. MECRI also establishes strategic partnerships with Ittihad Mudarrisin Lugah Arabiyyah (IMLA) Indonesia—a national organization that oversees Arabic language teachers—and the International Center for Arab Studies and Training (ICAST) in Egypt. These collaborations not only ensure the maintenance of academic quality but also enhance the journal’s relevance to the development of global science. 

The SINTA 4 accreditation represents a significant opportunity for MECRI to further promote cross-cultural dialogue through research on Middle Eastern language, literature, religion, and culture. The published articles enrich academic understanding and offer practical solutions to various global challenges. With a broad range of topics, MECRI has featured numerous insightful articles on contemporary issues in the Middle East, such as feminism, social inequality, cultural diplomacy, and peace efforts. These studies contribute to the achievement of several other SDGs, including SDG 5 on gender equality, SDG 10 on reducing social inequality, and SDG 16 on peace and justice. 

As part of its commitment to the SDGs, MECRI continues to strive to be a research platform that promotes cross-cultural understanding for a more inclusive world. With this achievement, MECRI is poised to advance as a leading force in innovative and globally impactful Middle Eastern studies.

[Public Relations Master of Middle East Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Nafila Azzahra]