Yogyakarta, September 6, 2025 — The Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, through the K-Lit UGM community, held a Talk Show on the novel Cursed Bunny and an Author Meet with renowned writer Chung Bora. This event was made possible through the collaboration and sponsorship of the Literature Translation Institute of Korea (LTI Korea), King Sejong Institute Yogyakarta, and the Korean Language and Culture Study Program, creating a space for dialogue between writers and readers across nations.

In the main session, Chung Bora shared her creative insights and responded to participants’ questions. Many were intrigued by the sources of inspiration behind her horror-themed stories. The author explained that her ideas often stem from everyday experiences, which she then intertwines with horror elements to spark readers’ imagination. Her works also highlight various social issues faced by women, showing how literature can serve as a medium for reflection and empowerment.

The discussion was lively and engaging, with many participants actively joining the Q&A session. This event not only provided an opportunity to learn more about Chung Bora’s works but also expanded literary horizons and fostered international academic networking.

The program concluded with a group photo and a book-signing session, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees. Through activities like this, K-Lit UGM and LTI Korea continue to promote cultural exchange, enrich students’ perspectives, and strengthen global literary connections through literature.

(Nisa Khairuna Sabilla/ Sherina Azmi A.)

Yogyakarta, September 15, 2025 – The Department of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), invited performing arts practitioner Anon Suneko, S.Sn., M.Sn. to deliver a guest lecture themed “Transforming Ancient Manuscripts into Performing Arts.” In his presentation, Anon provided an in-depth discussion on the creative process and challenges in composing musical accompaniment for dance drama.

According to him, composing musical accompaniment involves a structured sequence of stages, beginning with the formulation of concepts and themes, followed by research and musical exploration, intensive discussions with the director, and the drafting of initial sketches. The process then develops into a complete composition through the selection of appropriate instrumentation, the arrangement of transitions between sections, and the creation of variations to maintain dynamics and avoid monotony.

However, the process is not without challenges. Among them are balancing the dominance between music and performance, translating abstract concepts into concrete sounds, coping with time and resource limitations, bridging differences in vision among creators, and adapting to changes in choreography.

The lecture highlighted that performing arts are not merely a medium of expression but also a space for dialogue between tradition and innovation. Such creative efforts form part of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, which emphasizes culture-based knowledge development, and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which underscores the preservation of cultural heritage within modern society.

Through this program, FIB UGM reaffirms its role as an academic hub that not only studies ancient texts but also revitalizes them through performing arts, ensuring that traditions remain alive and can be passed on across generations.

[Public Relation of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, August 6, 2025 – As a tangible form of community service, the Master’s Program in American Studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) collaborated with BP3MI (Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection Agency), Yayasan Taman Cipta Karya Nusantara (TCKN), and Medical Outreachers Hong Kong to organize free health check-ups for returned Indonesian migrant workers. The event took place on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the TCKN Foundation in Yogyakarta.

This activity is part of an annual collaboration that has been running since 2023 between TCKN and Medical Outreachers, a charitable organization of medical students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and the University of Hong Kong (HKU). This year, the American Studies Student and Alumni Association (ASSAA) of UGM’s Master’s Program in American Studies served as the main academic partner as well as the primary organizer of the event. ASSAA members and several volunteer master’s and doctoral students in American Studies also acted as interpreters, bridging communication between the medical students and the returned migrant workers in attendance.

Carrying the spirit of collaboration and public service, this program aimed to provide basic health screenings to raise health awareness, particularly regarding degenerative diseases that are common among older adults. In addition, the event also included a public education session and training on first aid skills in emergency situations, equipping participants with practical knowledge and abilities to respond effectively and promptly before professional medical help arrives.

Remarks by Dr. Aris Munandar, M. Hum.

The event began with welcoming remarks by Dr. Aris Munandar, M. Hum., Head of the Master’s Program in American Studies. This was followed by the public education and training session, and concluded with basic health screenings conducted by the medical students from Medical Outreachers Hong Kong, assisted by American Studies students serving as interpreters. The medical services provided included blood pressure checks, blood glucose level tests, body mass index (BMI) measurement, basic nutrition consultation, and general medical consultation. All services were offered free of charge to around 20 participants, who were returned migrant workers from Yogyakarta and surrounding areas.

Basic Health Screening Process

The involvement of UGM postgraduate students as interpreters and organizing committee members was expected to be a meaningful learning experience, enhancing their social awareness and intercultural communication skills. With the program’s objectives achieved and strong participant enthusiasm, the event is also expected to serve as a momentum to strengthen cross-border and cross-sector collaboration in creating tangible social impact.

[Pengkajian Amerika, Nariza Ayu Pasha]

Sunday, August 17, 2025 – 4 Students from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Ataya Sasya Heradie (Korean Language and Culture 2024), Tabita Nada Kirana (Cultural Anthropology 2024), Andieni Ika Bela Safitri (Indonesian Language and Literature 2024), and Thiery Vincent Masarrang (French Literature 2024), delivered a captivating performance at the Yogyakarta Presidential Palace alongside fellow members of UGM’s Marching Band. This special moment coincided with the commemoration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day. UGM Marching Band performed as the Display team in the Parade Senja at the Presidential Palace in Yogyakarta. The event was attended by Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwana X and key policymakers in Yogyakarta.

Ataya Sasya and her peers expressed their deep honor at being able to perform at the Yogyakarta Presidential Palace. After several years of absence, UGM Marching Band finally returned to the Palace in 2025, marking a moment welcomed with pride and joy.

This performance was not only part of the 80th Independence Day celebration, but also a reflection of students’ contribution to preserving art, culture, and national spirit. It is in line with Universitas Gadjah Mada’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing opportunities for students to develop their talents through the arts, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by promoting cultural preservation in public spaces.

With a spirit of togetherness and creativity, UGM Marching Band reaffirmed its role as a cultural ambassador of the university, inspiring the community while strengthening unity during this historic Independence Day celebration.

[Public Relations, Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM. Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, 23 Juli 2025 – A proud achievement has once again been made by a student of the Arabic Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Ihsania Salma, a 2023 cohort student known for her active and inspiring spirit, has successfully earned the 2024 Beasiswa Unggulan from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek). This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding youth committed to making real contributions to society.

In an exclusive interview with the IKMASA Media Team, Ihsania—affectionately called Sania—shared her journey as a passionate student, literacy activist, and campus leader. She has taken on numerous roles with dedication, including as Mentor Coordinator for La-Tansa, Co-Facilitator for PPSMB PIONIR, and Chairperson of the 2024 Festival Anak Gadjah Mada Menginspirasi. She is also actively involved in teaching communities and women’s advocacy through Srikandi UGM.

“Becoming an awardee isn’t just about academic scores, but about who we are and what we stand for,” said Sania.

She emphasized that consistency, strong intent, and the courage to step outside one’s comfort zone were the keys to securing the scholarship. Through writing, podcasting, and meaningful daily contributions, Sania shows that every step—no matter how small—can carry great impact.

Through this achievement, Sania hopes to continue creating a meaningful impact and serve as an inspiration to her fellow Arabic Literature students. She encourages peers to start from small things, stay consistent, and dare to dream big.

“We don’t have to be perfect to be useful. Just start with small, sincere steps,” Sania concluded enthusiastically.

For students inspired by Sania’s story, a golden opportunity is now available. The registration for Beasiswa Unggulan 2025 is officially open until July 27, 2025. This program offers financial support to high-achieving students who are committed to using their knowledge and talents in service of society. Don’t miss it out! Prepare your documents and apply through the official portal at beasiswaunggulan.kemdikbud.go.id 

[ Arabic Literature, Muhammad Ardiansyah]