West Java, October 29, 2025 – The Curriculum Team of the Arabic Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), took part in the Curriculum Standards Assessment Workshop organized by UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon. The event gathered 19 Arabic Language and Literature study programs from various universities under both the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. 

Participating universities included Universitas Gadjah Mada, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Universitas Hasanuddin, UIN Alauddin Makassar, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Sekolah Tinggi Dirasat Islamiyah Imam Syafi’i Jember, STAI Riyadlul ‘Ulum Tasikmalaya, UIN Raden Fatah Palembang, UIN Raden Mas Said Surakarta, UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati, UIN Satu Tulungagung, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Sunan Giri, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Universitas Al-Azhar Indonesia, UIN Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin Banten, and UIN Salatiga. This broad participation reflects a shared commitment to strengthening inter-institutional collaboration in shaping a modern and adaptive approach to Arabic language education in response to contemporary challenges.

The opening ceremony, held at the 8th floor auditorium of the SBSN Siber Building, was attended by faculty leaders and members of the Ittihad Aqsam al-Lughah al-‘Arabiyyah wa Adabiha (IQLAB) central board. In his address, Dr. Uki Sukiman (UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta), Chairperson of IQLAB Indonesia, emphasized the growing importance of synergy among Arabic Language and Literature study programs in advancing both academic excellence and institutional development. The workshop was officially inaugurated by Dr. Wakhid Nashruddin, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs at UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati, who highlighted the urgency of curriculum evaluation as a strategic step to enhance graduate competitiveness.

The sessions continued with curriculum development and assessment discussions led by Haeruddin, M.A. (Universitas Hasanuddin), Head of the Curriculum and Quality Assurance Division at IQLAB, who presented the concept of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and stressed the importance of continuous assessment in curriculum improvement.

On the second day, participants conducted self-assessments of their respective study programs and endorsed two key documents: the Curriculum Development Guidelines and the Curriculum Draft Assessment Manual. Both documents were signed by all participants and officially ratified by Dr. Uki Sukiman, M.Ag, Chairperson of IQLAB Indonesia, accompanied by Siti Aminah, S.S., M.A. from Universitas Gadjah Mada, who serves as IQLAB’s Secretary General.

Beyond the academic agenda, the workshop also served as a platform to foster camaraderie and collaboration among institutions. To close the event, participants explored Cirebon’s rich cultural heritage through visits to Kasepuhan Palace and Masjid Sang Cipta Rasa, followed by a culinary experience featuring the city’s signature dish, empal gentong, at Krucuk.

Through this workshop, IQLAB Indonesia and participating institutions reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the quality of Arabic Language and Literature education in Indonesia, fostering inter-institutional partnerships, and aligning curricula with the evolving demands of the modern world and global educational standards.

Author: Siti Aminah, S.S.,M.A.

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 24, 2025 – Two students from the Arabic Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) — Sultan Amirul Muttaqin and Jibriel Sayyid Ishaq — have successfully advanced to the semifinal round of the Al-Istiqama International Arabic Public Speaking Competition 2025. They are two of only 17 participants selected from various countries who made it through after an intense and highly competitive preliminary stage.

In the semifinal round, the competition continues to be held online, with participants required to submit a new video speech addressing a different theme from the previous round. This stage serves as a crucial opportunity for Sultan and Jibriel to demonstrate their analytical depth, creative thinking, and contextual argumentation skills on pressing global issues.

The Arabic Study Program continues to provide comprehensive support for Sultan and Jibriel during this phase, including guidance in speechwriting, training in articulation, intonation, and body language, as well as assistance with video recording and editing. This ongoing support reflects the program’s strong commitment to nurturing students’ linguistic, rhetorical, and cultural competencies on the international stage.

Sultan and Jibriel’s participation in this competition also exemplifies the Arabic Study Program’s contribution to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Their success not only brings pride to the university but also serves as an inspiration for fellow Arabic Literature students to continue developing their potential, engaging in international arenas, and representing Indonesia through language, intellect, and culture.

Author: Muhammad Ardiansyah

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)

The Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Gadjah Mada University, is once again holding its annual Gugur Gunung 14 event as part of the 70th anniversary of the study program’s establishment. Established on September 19, 1955, the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program has now entered its seventh decade of research, development, and preservation of Javanese culture in both academic and wider communities.

This year, Gugur Gunung carries the theme Tataning Ucap Sirnaning Dhesti, which means “organizing speech to avoid misfortune.” This theme forms the basis of values in fostering a spirit of mutual cooperation, unity, and togetherness in order to achieve the noble goal of preserving and realizing the sustainability of Javanese language, literature, and culture.

The first series of activities is a Javanese cultural exhibition which will be held on September 17-18, 2025, on the 1st floor of the Margono Building, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. During the exhibition, visitors are invited to explore various forms of Javanese culture through traditional games, gamelan musical instruments, wayang kulit (shadow puppets), ancient manuscripts, and weton (birth date calculations). Visitors can not only observe, but also interact directly and gain knowledge about the philosophical meaning behind each culture on display.

The highlight of the Gugur Gunung 14 event will be held on September 19, 2025, at the Poerbatjaraka Building Auditorium on the 3rd floor. The highlight of the evening will feature a variety of art performances, including classical dance, creative dance, and the dance drama “Adisari: Cahaya Kasih di Balik Penaklukan” (Adisari: The Light of Love Behind Conquest).

Full screenshot of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences Knowledge Channel (2025, September 30) at [13:00]. Accessed from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLnTciXTCEg.

The dance drama was adapted from the text and illustrations of the Babad Metawis Skriptorium Pakualaman manuscript, which was initiated by Sri Paku Alam II. In addition to showcasing the richness of traditional art, the event was made even more special by the collaborative performance of students from Osaka University. It also served as a moment of farewell and appreciation for Dr. Sri Ratna Saktimulya, M.Hum., who was retiring from her position. 

The Gugur Gunung 14 event is not just an anniversary celebration, but also a concrete means of preserving and reviving Javanese culture. Through this event, the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program affirms its commitment to maintaining the sustainability of the noble values of Javanese culture so that they remain relevant amid the tide of modernity.

Author : Haryo Untoro
Editor : Haryo Untoro

Bibliography
Kanal Pengetahuan Fakultas Ilmu Budaya UGM. (2025, 29 September). Alih Wahana Manuskrip Kuna ke Seni Pertunjukan, Adisari: Cahaya Kasih di Balik Penaklukan [Video]. Youtube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLnTciXTCEg.