Yogyakarta, November 29, 2025 — The Department of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Gadjah Mada University (FIB UGM), held an event titled “Dari Kertas Naik ke Pentas: Workshop Alih Wahana Epos Jawa-Islam dari Teks Sastra ke Lakon Pertunjukan” [From Paper to Stage: Workshop on Adapting Javanese-Islamic Epics from Literary Texts to Performance Play] in the Gamelan Room, Margono Building, 4th floor of FIB UGM. This public event attracted participants from various backgrounds, including students, academics, arts and culture enthusiasts, and the general public.

This workshop served as a cross-disciplinary discussion forum that combined perspectives from literature, history, and performing arts, particularly in the context of Menak puppet theater, a cultural heritage that represents a fusion of Islamic values, Javanese traditions, and puppet theater arts. Three speakers were present at this event, namely Dr. Drs. Sudibyo, M.Hum. (Head of the Department of Language and Literature, FIB UGM), Kusnanta Riwus Ginanjar, S.Sn. (actor, scriptwriter, director, and Menak puppet show puppeteer), and Rinal Khaidar Ali, ST., M.Eng. (Menak puppet show activist). The event was moderated by Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A., lecturer at the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program.

The first presentation was delivered by Kusnanta Riwus Ginanjar, S.Sn. He discussed the existence of Menak puppet theater from an artistic perspective and its function as a learning medium. In addition, Kusnanta emphasized the importance of adapting classical literary works so that they do not remain merely as written texts. This is done so that these works can continue to be preserved and known to the wider community.

The second speaker, Rinal Khaidar Ali, ST., M.Eng., highlighted the current condition of Menak puppet theater in Indonesia, particularly in the Java region. He said that its existence is currently in decline. “There are no longer any Menak puppet craftsmen in Yogyakarta, located in the Sentolo area. Even in Kebumen, their numbers are dwindling,” he explained.

The third session was presented by Dr. Sudibyo, M.Hum., who discussed the historical dimensions of the Menak story. He explained that the Menak epic originated in Persia based on the heroic story of Amir Hamzah bin Abdul Muthalib, the uncle of the Prophet Muhammad. The story then spread to the Arab and Malay worlds before finally being adapted into Javanese culture. Later, during the Mataram Kartasura Sultanate, this story was rewritten in Javanese by carik Narawita and then updated by the poet Yasadipura. According to him, this adaptation process was not merely a translation, but also a creative form of cultural contextualization with the addition of interludes.

To conclude, this event featured a Menak golek puppet show entitled “Menak Iskandar” by Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A. The story is sourced from Serat Iskandar Jawi or Caritanira Iskandar, which was composed at the Kartasura Palace in 1729 AD by order of Kangjeng Ratu Mas Balitar, the queen consort of Pakubuwana I.

The story tells of the journey of Prabu Iskandar Zulkarnain, King of Ngerum, in his efforts to conquer the eastern and western worlds in order to spread the teachings of the Prophet Ibrahim. However, his struggle was hindered by King Ubur of Jabarsah and the army of giant worshippers Ya’juj and Ma’juj. Based on the advice of Prophet Kilir, Iskandar built a great wall that enclosed Ja-Makjuja until the end of time. Nevertheless, Iskandar was still worried that Ja-Makjuja would escape one day. He asked Prophet Kilir for the elixir of life. Prophet Kilir then departed for the land of Lulmat in the country of Jaminambar, where a lake called Ma’ul Hayat was located. Next, Prophet Kilir drank the water, performed ablution, and prayed at the edge of the lake. After finishing his prayers, by God’s will, Prophet Kilir gained immortality without having the chance to give the water to Iskandar. Iskandar, who was waiting for Prophet Kilir at the cave entrance, then realized that no power is eternal except that of Allah. He returned to the kingdom of Ngerum with his entire army.

This workshop is a tangible manifestation of academic and cultural efforts to revive Menak puppet theater as a literary and performing arts heritage in Indonesia. Through this activity, it is hoped that cross-disciplinary awareness can be built regarding the importance of preserving traditions while developing new forms that are relevant to the present day. Furthermore, the synergy between academics, artists, and the community is expected to continue to be encouraged so that Menak puppet theater art and literature remain a source of inspiration, cultural identity, and a living educational tool within the community.

Author : Haryo Untoro
Editor : Haryo Untoro

Yogyakarta, October 26, 2025 – The Muslim Family of Cultural Sciences (Keluarga Muslim Ilmu Budaya – KMIB) from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), successfully held a social service event titled “Rabita: Raih Berkah, Bagikan Cinta” (Gain Blessings, Share Love) at the Lembaga Kesejahteraan Sosial Anak (LKSA – Child Social Welfare Institution) Omah Ngaji Jogja. This year, the Rabita activity adopted the theme of “Environmental Hygiene” as a form of student concern for the importance of cleanliness and environmental sustainability, while also realizing the spirit of community service.

The event was attended by KMIB members, administrators and fostered children of LKSA Omah Ngaji, as well as students participating in the KMIB Soft Skills class. Their presence added to the spirit of togetherness and strengthened the value of mutual cooperation (gotong royong) throughout the series of activities. The event proceeded with great enthusiasm and cheerfulness, reflecting the collaborative spirit between the students, administrators, and the fostered children of LKSA Omah Ngaji in carrying out social activities.

The series of activities included education on waste sorting, tree planting, and an interactive activity of painting trash bins. Through these activities, KMIB FIB UGM aimed to cultivate awareness of the importance of cleanliness and environmental sustainability from an early age, while creating a fun and memorable learning experience for the children.

Dian Patmisari, the Chief Executive of Rabita, explained that the program not only focused on environmental cleanliness but also instilled humanitarian values, gratitude, and social concern. She stated that Rabita: Gain Blessings, Share Love is a manifestation of gratitude and care from the KMIB extended family towards others, as well as a means to strengthen kinship (silaturahmi) and foster the spirit of Islamic brotherhood (ukhuwah Islamiyah) among students.

More than just a social activity, Rabita served as a platform for FIB UGM students to channel positive energy and strengthen the spirit of community service (one of the Three Pillars of Higher Education – tri dharma perguruan tinggi). Through the theme of “environmental hygiene,” this initiative instilled the awareness that maintaining cleanliness is part of worship and a shared responsibility as the nation’s next generation.

The administrators of LKSA Omah Ngaji Jogja welcomed the implementation of Rabita and appreciated the attention and concern of KMIB FIB UGM for their fostered children. Events like this can provide emotional and educational benefits for the children, as besides fostering environmental awareness, they also instill the value of togetherness and cheerfulness through direct interaction with the students.

The Rabita: Gain Blessings, Share Love activity also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through efforts to create a clean environment, SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing environmental education to the fostered children, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through concrete action to maintain cleanliness and green the environment, SDG 13 (Climate Action) through tree planting and natural preservation education, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for The Goals) through collaboration between FIB UGM students and LKSA Omah Ngaji Jogja.

(KMIB FIB UGM, Hilmi Anugerah Alghani)

Yogyakarta, October 20, 2025 — The Department of Language and Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held an event titled Expert Lecture: The Transformation of the Indonesian Language in Digital Media on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in Room S709, Soegondo Building, 7th Floor. The event brought together three distinguished linguists from various Indonesian universities: Prof. Dr. Munira Hasjim, M.Hum. (Professor at Hasanuddin University), Dr. Bernadette Kushartanti, M.Hum. (Lecturer at Universitas Indonesia), and Dr. Sailal Arimi, M.Hum. (Lecturer at Universitas Gadjah Mada), moderated by Deni Ferdiansa, S.S., M.A. The discussion served as an important platform to explore the dynamics and challenges of the Indonesian language amid the rapid pace of digitalization.

In her presentation, Prof. Munira Hasjim emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency in the use of the Indonesian language to prevent degradation in the digital era. She highlighted four major linguistic phenomena that characterize language transformation in online spaces: the widespread use of acronyms and abbreviations such as bucin, mager, and gercep; creative manipulation of graphemes and orthography, such as using all lowercase letters or excessive capitalization; frequent code-switching with English in everyday expressions; and the rising use of harsh or offensive language in social media interactions. According to her, these shifts are driven by three main pillars — digital identity, community solidarity, and communication technology — which have turned language into not only a communication tool but also a medium for self-expression and a marker of social belonging in virtual spaces.

Meanwhile, Dr. Bernadette Kushartanti discussed the role of digital media as an inseparable part of modern life, especially for Generations Z and Alpha. She explained that their linguistic behavior reflects their social identity in the online world, with code-switching and the use of slang serving as expressions of cultural belonging, social status, and individuality in a multicultural environment. Bernadette also cautioned that excessive exposure to digital media can affect behavior, leading to issues such as anxiety, impatience, and reduced self-reflection. Therefore, she stressed the importance of digital literacy and linguistic awareness to ensure that creativity in online language use remains aligned with good language values and norms.

In his presentation, Dr. Sailal Arimi examined how language phenomena on social media reflect the collective identity of today’s youth. Terms such as “Negara Konoha” and “Warga +62” have emerged as satirical symbols representing both social critique and a sense of belonging among the digital generation. He noted that virtual communication serves two main purposes — efficiency and self-expression. Digital language enables users to exchange information quickly through abbreviations like FYP while also asserting social identity and perspective through expressions such as ACAB or SJW. This illustrates that in the digital era, language is not only changing in form but also in its social function as a tool for community building in virtual spaces.

These phenomena enrich the Indonesian lexicon, expand linguistic variation, and demonstrate the vitality of the language. However, they also present challenges, including declining awareness of formal linguistic norms and potential miscommunication across contexts. The event concluded in an engaging atmosphere, with many students enthusiastically asking questions and engaging in direct dialogue with the speakers, making the forum not only informative but also interactive and full of academic energy.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, October 21, 2025 — The Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada, held its graduation ceremony for 184 postgraduate students, consisting of 173 master’s and 11 doctoral graduates in the first period of the 2025/2026 academic year. The ceremony took place at the Poerbatjaraka Auditorium, marking a moment of celebration and recognition for the graduates’ dedication and perseverance throughout their academic journey.

A total of 102 graduates earned the Cum Laude distinction, reflecting not only their academic excellence but also their resilience and commitment to the humanities.

The Master’s Program in Linguistics produced the largest number of graduates with 66 students, followed by the Master’s in Literature with 46 graduates, and both the Master’s in Middle Eastern Cultural Studies and the Master’s in Anthropology, each with 16 graduates. At the doctoral level, the Doctoral Program in Humanities recorded the highest number with nine graduates. Other programs contributing to this period’s graduation include Master’s in History (10), Master’s in American Studies (10), Master’s in Archaeology (9), Doctoral Program in American Studies (1), and Doctoral Program in Anthropology (1).

The highest GPA and shortest study period among master’s graduates was achieved by Kyra Andhayu Noer from the Master’s Program in Archaeology, who completed her studies with a GPA of 3.96 in 1 year, 1 month, and 10 days. At the doctoral level, Ria Yuliati from the Doctoral Program in Humanities achieved a GPA of 3.81 with a study duration of 3 years, 11 months, and 8 days.

On average, the GPA of master’s graduates reached 3.78, while the doctoral graduates’ average GPA was 3.80. The Master’s in Middle Eastern Cultural Studies achieved the highest average GPA of 3.84, reflecting strong academic performance and dedication to interdisciplinary cultural studies.

In a deeply moving moment, the Faculty also paid tribute to one of its postgraduate students, Nanang Syaifudin, S.Hum., M.A., from the Master’s Program in Linguistics, who passed away before the graduation ceremony. Known for his diligence, humility, and passion for learning, his diploma was received symbolically by his parents during the ceremony. Their presence was met with heartfelt respect and emotion from the entire audience. The Faculty expressed its highest appreciation for Nanang’s commitment and prayed that his good deeds and knowledge continue to benefit many, while his family finds strength and solace.

This graduation was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a moment of reflection on the deeper meaning of education — one that nurtures empathy, integrity, and humanity. Through this occasion, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences reaffirms its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Graduates of FIB UGM are expected to become agents of positive change, carrying forward the values of culture, ethics, and humanity into their communities. With their knowledge and character, they are ready to take part in shaping a more inclusive, civilized, and sustainable world.

Yogyakarta, October 12, 2025 – The Marching Band Student Activity Unit (UKM) of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) proudly secured 3rd place at the prestigious 2025 Hamengku Buwono X Cup Championship. This remarkable achievement highlights the dedication and passion of UGM students in developing their talents in both the arts and sports, particularly through their commitment to marching band excellence.

Held in Yogyakarta, the competition featured performances in the Display Field Show general division, with participation from renowned marching bands across Indonesia, including Ekalavya Suara Brawijaya, Tiyadhita Marching Brass Tangerang, and Udayana Marching Band Bali. Based on the judges’ assessment, Ekalavya Suara Brawijaya claimed first place, followed by Tiyadhita Marching Brass Tangerang in second place, while UGM Marching Band proudly earned third place.

Several students from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences also took part in the competition, contributing as both musicians and visual performers. The team received direct support from UGM Rector Prof. Ova Emilia, Ph.D., and Prof. Anggito Abimanyu, former Deputy Minister of Finance and a proud alumnus of UGM Marching Band. Their presence served as both appreciation and motivation for the team to continue striving for excellence at national and international levels.

This achievement aligns with UGM’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by empowering student activities that foster talent development and leadership beyond the classroom. Moreover, the spirit of collaboration and sportsmanship embodied in this event reflects the values of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, promoting positive networks among universities across Indonesia.

Through this success, UGM Marching Band is expected to further strengthen its role as a platform for developing students’ character, creativity, and sense of unity within Universitas Gadjah Mada.

[Public Relations of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences – Alma Syahwalani]