Yogyakarta, 17/5/2025 – A proud achievement has once again been recorded by a student from Gadjah Mada University (UGM). Haris Arfakhsyadz Azka Maula, a student of the Arabic Literature Study Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, successfully secured 2nd place in the prestigious International Arabic Speech Competition (Khiṭābah ‘Arabiyyah) held as part of the GEKA 7 International event.

The competition took place from May 14 to 17, 2025, at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) and served as an international stage featuring 26 participants from various renowned institutions, both domestic and abroad. Countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Turkey sent their best delegates. Notable foreign universities participating included Universiti Malaya, USIM, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and Fatoni University from Thailand.

In a competitive atmosphere filled with enthusiasm, Haris stood out as the sole delegate from UGM’s Arabic Literature program, showcasing his proficiency in Arabic while delivering a speech in front of an international jury and audience. With sharp rhetorical skills, a strong command of the language, and high confidence, Haris managed to impress the judges and secured the second position, just one point behind the first-place winner from Darussalam Gontor University.

“I feel very grateful. All of this is thanks to the guidance of my lecturers, the support of my friends, and the prayers from my parents who have always accompanied my journey.” Haris expressed emotion after the announcement of the winners.

The International Arabic Speech Competition is a significant event that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting access to education and enhancing educational opportunities in developing countries. By participating in such international competitions, students like Haris not only gain valuable experience but also contribute to the global dialogue on education and cultural exchange.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of education in developing countries cannot be overstated. Events like the International Arabic Speech Competition provide a platform for students to showcase their talents and foster a sense of community among diverse cultures. Haris’s achievement is a testament to the potential that lies within students when given access to quality education and opportunities.

This achievement is tangible proof that Indonesian students, especially in the humanities field like Arabic Literature, can compete and excel on the international stage. Haris’s victory also reflects the quality of education and the collaborative spirit within the UGM academic environment, which continuously encourages its students to excel and contribute in global forums.

Haris Arfakhsyadz Azka Maula’s story is not just about competition; it embodies the spirit of learning, dedication, and the belief that language is a bridge to the world. This achievement serves as an inspiration for the younger generation to dare to dream and take steps further.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, 2/7/2025 – The 4th International Seminar on Malay-Javanese Studies (SEMEJA) was held at the University Club of Universitas Gadjah Mada, presenting an inspiring discourse on the power of women’s narratives in Javanese literature. Dra. Wiwien Widyawati Rahayu, M.A., together with two of her students, Yudha Adistira and Saktia Hidayah, presented a study entitled “Leadership of Female Characters in the Novel Kidung Trěsna Sang Pikatan: Rancière’s Democratic Perspective.”

In her presentation, the researcher highlighted how female characters in the novel by Alexandra Indriyanti Dewi serve as agents of social change. Utilizing the radical democracy theory of Jacques Rancière, they interpreted that leadership in the story does not stem from structural power but from political actions that challenge the established patriarchal symbolic order.

Wulan, Pramodawardhani, and Sri Kahulunan emerged as representations of female figures manifesting Rancière’s three main concepts: dissensus, egalitarianism, and the reversal of hierarchy. Wulan, depicted as tělik sandhi, experiences inner conflict and subtly challenges the system through apparent compliance, a form of dissensus that quietly disrupts the power structure. Meanwhile, Pramodawardhani reflects the spirit of egalitarianism through her sharp political strategies and involvement in the development of Borobudur Temple. On the other hand, Sri Kahulunan firmly opposes the claim that leadership must be male-dominated, showcasing women’s courage in repositioning power.

Interestingly, all three characters were also analyzed through the lens of Donna Haraway’s cyborg feminism, positioning them as hybrid subjects that reject old dichotomies such as male-female or public-private. With this approach, female figures emerge not merely as complements to historical narratives but as leaders who reshape the power map.

This presentation contributes significantly to the discourse on gender and politics within the realm of literature, affirming that Javanese literature can also serve as a democratic space that validates women’s voices as active subjects of social change. More than just a historical romance, Kidung Trěsna Sang Pikatan stands as a text of resistance against patriarchy and a symbol of Javanese women’s bravery in carving their nation’s history.

The seminar also emphasized the importance of cultural diversity in literature, showcasing how different narratives can coexist and enrich the understanding of gender roles. By empowering girls through education for sustainability, the event highlighted the need for equal opportunities in literary representation, ensuring that women’s stories are told and celebrated.

In conclusion, through the presentation session by Dra. Wiwien Widyawati Rahayu, M.A., SEMEJA IV not only celebrated the contributions of experts and academics in Malay-Javanese studies, but also reinforced the importance of education and cultural diversity in building a more inclusive and sustainable future. The narrative presented is a call to action for everyone to recognize and support the vital role of women in literature and society.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, July 2, 2025 — Muhammad Bagus Ulin Nuha, a 2023 student of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) UGM, is a student who actively develops his potential in the fields of Master of Ceremony (MC) and public speaking.

Bagus’s interest in public speaking began at an early age. While in elementary school, he frequently participated in Indonesian speech competitions. His talent became even more prominent in junior high school, where he won first place in a speech contest. These experiences became the starting point of his journey into the MC world, which he continues to pursue to this day.

“For me, public speaking is not just about performing in front of others—it’s about learning from your surroundings and constantly improving yourself,” said Bagus.

Although academics remain his main priority, Bagus still makes time outside of class to practice and hone his voice. This commitment has given him considerable experience as an MC. One of his notable experiences was being entrusted as the MC for the Gadjah Mada Festival. He is also active as a volunteer, particularly in the event division.

Beyond MC work, Bagus also explores other forms of performing arts. He once studied dance at FIB and performed the traditional Jathilan dance at the 13th Gugur Gunung event organized by the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Program in 2024. He considered this a new step in his personal development journey.

That same year, he was also entrusted to guide the Pionir Kampung Budaya 2024 event, which further sharpened his public speaking skills. In addition, Bagus has served as MC for several UGM graduation ceremonies. This year, he was accepted as a part-time student staff at UGM’s Office of Public Relations and Protocol, assigned to the protocol division.

All of these activities align with UGM’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, which encourages the development of life skills and vocational training among students. Bagus exemplifies how students can grow beyond the classroom, proving that education is not only about academics but also about shaping character and practical competence.

Furthermore, his experiences in MC and protocol work also support SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by fostering early professional readiness during his studies. Through these experiences, students like Bagus are equipping themselves with relevant skills to face the future world of work.

Bagus emphasizes that everyone can develop their potential, as long as they have the willingness and consistency to grow. He also aims to prove that students of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture have many opportunities to thrive in various fields.

“To all my fellow FIB students—get to know your potential and don’t be afraid to try. FIB and UGM provide platforms for us to grow and develop,” he concluded.

[Public Relations FIB, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, June 24, 2025 – The Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FKKMK) and the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) officially signed a collaboration agreement with HOMSEA (History of Medicine in Southeast Asia) to co-host The 10th International Conference on the History of Medicine in Southeast Asia. The symbolic signing ceremony was held at Soegondo Hall, FIB UGM, with the Deans of FKKMK and FIB in attendance.

In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si., Dean of FIB UGM, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to host such a significant international gathering and emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue in understanding the historical roots of health systems. Representing FIB UGM, Dr. Mimi Savitri, M.A. served as the Person-in-Charge (PIC) of the event, actively coordinating the collaboration with HOMSEA and FKKMK UGM.

Held under the theme “The History of Medicine in Colonial, Post–Colonial, and Global Worlds,” the four-day conference takes place from June 23 to 27, 2025. The event began with a Pre-Conference Workshop on June 23, followed by the main conference sessions from June 24 to 26, and concludes with an optional Historical Hospital Tour on June 27.

This year’s conference addresses several vital subthemes

• Health, Medicine, and Decolonization,
• Community Health vs Medical Specialization,
• Connections and Differences within Southeast Asia,
• The Anthropocene from a Southeast Asian Perspective,
• Medicine, Ethics, Politics, and the Sustainable Development Goals,
• and Climate Change and Environmental Degradation.

Founded in 2005 by Prof. Laurence Monnais (University of Montreal) and Dr. Rethy Chhem (former Executive Director of the Cambodia Development Resource Institute), HOMSEA has served as a platform for scholars and practitioners to share insights and research on the history of health and medicine in the region.

To foster inclusivity, HOMSEA continues to provide travel bursaries and waived conference fees for participants from countries such as Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. These bursaries are made possible through support from institutions including the Canada Research Chair in Healthcare Pluralism, the Royal Netherlands Institute of Southeast Asian and Caribbean Studies (KITLV), and the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre.

This collaborative effort is expected to strengthen the development of research on the history of medicine in Southeast Asia and contribute meaningfully to the pursuit of equitable and sustainable global health systems.

[Public Relation of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, June 19, 2025 – The Department of Cultural Anthropology at Universitas Gadjah Mada held a heartfelt retirement ceremony for Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., a distinguished academic whose career has profoundly shaped the landscape of education and cultural studies in Indonesia. The event served as a moment of appreciation and reflection on a journey marked by dedication, critical thinking, and cultural advocacy.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of a commemorative book consisting of thirty essays contributed by Dr. Lono’s colleagues and students. These writings represent a tapestry of reflections, thoughts, and shared experiences, serving as both an intellectual tribute and an emotional homage to his enduring influence.

The ceremony also featured artistic performances from students and faculty members, adding a vibrant and celebratory tone to the evening. The first performance—a dangdut remix song performed by students—paid tribute to Dr. Lono’s pioneering work in elevating dangdut as a serious subject of academic inquiry. For him, dangdut was not merely entertainment but a habitus—a cultural form that embodies the joys and struggles of everyday life.

“Dangdut is all about broken huts, sharing one plate of food, poverty… but it’s danced to, not cried over,” he remarked during the talk show segment.

In the same session, Dr. Lono shared insights into his early days as a lecturer and his involvement in a national NGO in Semarang in 1986. There, he led a community empowerment program through urban microfinance, a grassroots initiative that enhanced the economic resilience of urban communities. His work directly aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

The final and closing act of the event was a dramatic performance of Reog Ponorogo, collaboratively staged by students and lecturers. The performance revisited Dr. Lono’s in-depth research on this traditional art form within the framework of performance anthropology. This act was not just symbolic, but a living embodiment of the cultural practices he explored, taught, and preserved throughout his academic career.

Beyond the performances, Dr. Lono’s commitment to bringing popular culture—such as dangdut and reog—into academic spaces illustrates his advocacy for contextual and critical education. His approach embodies the spirit of SDG 4: Quality Education, promoting inclusive, relevant, and culturally responsive learning systems.

Alumni from the class of 1995 also attended the event, presenting a symbolic gift through their representative, Ani Himawati. This gesture reflected the deep emotional connection shared between Dr. Lono and generations of students he mentored and inspired.

Dr. Lono’s retirement does not mark the end of his contributions but rather a continuation of his intellectual legacy. His work lives on not only in academic texts but also in music, folklore, and the everyday stories he transformed into meaningful knowledge. His legacy will continue to inspire critical awareness and cultural sensitivity for years to come.

[Public Relation of FIB, Alma Syahwalani]