Yogyakarta, 25/04/2025 – The visit of INCULS students from the Indonesian Tourism Specialization Class to Ullen Sentalu Museum opened new horizons in understanding the Javanese cultural heritage that lives and breathes through every corner of the museum. Located in the cool air of Kaliurang, the museum not only presents a collection of historical objects, but also serves as a dialogue space between the past and the present, where students can dive into noble values that remain relevant in modern tourism development. Each exhibition room, from Gua Selo Giri that showcases the palace’s batik to Kampung Kambang that tells the story of the palace princesses’ lives, holds lessons about the balance between preserving tradition and adapting to changing times.

Through direct interaction with museum guides from the local community, students realized the importance of involving the community in cultural heritage management. The way the museum empowers local residents as active custodians of traditions provides a clear example of how cultural preservation can go hand in hand with improving welfare. This experience taught them that authentic cultural tourism should grow from the roots of the community, not just be a show to fulfill market tastes. The students also learned that every batik motif, building architecture, and room layout in this museum contains a deep philosophy of life about human relationships with nature and each other.

The next activity was a session to try the freshly made jadah tempe. Students experienced firsthand the harmony of the savory taste of fermented tempeh with the sweetness of jadah from sticky rice, all wrapped in the fragrant aroma of banana leaves. Through this culinary experience, they understand how traditional food is not just a matter of taste, but also a medium for cultural preservation and local wisdom in processing natural resources. The visit to the jadah tempe producers completed their understanding of the full ecosystem of Javanese culture – from the philosophical values displayed in the museum to the real practices in people’s daily lives.

This direct interaction with traditional food artisans also opened the students’ eyes to the potential of culinary tourism as part of a holistic cultural tourism experience. They saw opportunities to develop tour packages that not only showcase historical objects, but also bring culture to life through sensory experiences such as tasting and making traditional food. This learning further strengthened their understanding of the importance of involving local communities in any tourism destination development, as well as maintaining the sustainability of culinary traditions as a priceless intangible cultural heritage.

This visit was also a living laboratory for students to observe best practices in cultural destination management. They saw how museums are able to create educational tourism experiences without reducing the sacred value of their collections, as well as how technological adaptations are made while maintaining the essence of tradition. This kind of learning shapes the perspective that tourism development must always consider sustainability. Not only in the environmental sense, but also the sustainability of cultural values and economic benefits for local communities. This experience at Ullen Sentalu and the jadah tempe production site is an important foundation for future tourism professionals to build a more responsible and meaningful destination development model.

[INCULS, Thareeq Arkan Falakh]

Yogyakarta, 22/04/2025 – As part of an effort to deepen understanding of the dynamics of Indonesian politics, Indonesian Culture and Language Study (INCULS) students visited the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) DPRD Building and the DIY Governor’s Office. The visit not only provided insight into the legislative and executive processes at the local level, but also implicitly touched on the principles of sustainable development, particularly in terms of inclusive, transparent and accountable governance.

During the visit to the DPRD DIY, INCULS students discussed with the lecturers the role of the legislature in public policy making. They highlighted the importance of community participation in the political process, which is in line with peace processes that emphasize effective, inclusive and transparent governance. At the Governor’s Office, INCULS students had the opportunity to tour and hear about the challenges and strategies of development in Yogyakarta. Topics such as cultural preservation, poverty alleviation, and improving access to education were discussed. The DIY government emphasized the importance of collaboration between academics, communities, and policy makers to achieve sustainable development. Youth and students play a key role in driving innovation and monitoring public policies.

The visit not only enriched students’ understanding of Indonesian politics, but also made them realize that good public policy is the foundation of achieving the SDGs. By understanding the democratic process and governance, INCULS students are expected to become agents of change who promote sustainable development, both locally and globally. Politics is not just about power, but a tool to realize sustainable social and environmental justice. This activity is proof that political education and awareness of sustainable development must go hand in hand to create a better future. 

[Public Relation of INCULS, Thareeq Arkan Falakh]

Yogyakarta, 17/4/2025 – Behind the warm class meetings and intimate cross-cultural discussions is the story of a young tutor who made teaching his calling. Iqbal Tafqy Aunika, a History student in the class of 2022, started his journey with Gadjah Mada University’s Indonesian Culture and Language Service (INCULS) in June 2024. The decision to join was not solely because of academic interest but rather because of the challenges faced when teaching Scout extracurriculars. When he realized he had never taught Indonesian in theory, Iqbal saw this opportunity as a space to learn, grow, and go beyond his comfort zone.

For more than a year, Iqbal has been a teacher for students from various programs, such as the Gadjah Mada Immersion Fellowship (GMIF) and Kokushikan. However, being a tutor is not just about delivering material for Iqbal. He believes that the key to learning lies in relationships between people. Therefore, he always starts by getting to know students’ hobbies and interests and then uses that as a bridge to build closeness. This approach makes the class atmosphere more fluid and makes students feel welcome, even when cultural differences are stark.

Iqbal often uses flexible methods by combining communicative and grammatical approaches, balancing them with class situations, and inserting humor to make the lessons feel light. He does not hesitate to explore the city with students, introducing Yogyakarta as a living cultural learning space. “If we know what they like, learning is no longer rigid. They become more courageous in asking questions and discussing things, and they are interested in getting to know Indonesia more deeply,” he explained.

There are certainly challenges, especially in beginner classes. The process of understanding students is often slow at first. However, Iqbal faces it with patience and creativity. One experience that left a lasting impression was when a student from Pakistan asked about slang words in Indonesian. Instead of laughing, Iqbal used it to discuss language ethics and social context. This kind of dialogue opens up space for mutual respect while also showing the complexity of culture more honestly.

For him, being a tutor is also being the face of Indonesia. When introducing batik, for example, Iqbal shows the motif or pattern and conveys the philosophy behind it. In this way, he hopes that international students will learn about Bahasa Indonesia and capture the values ​​that shape Indonesian society. “We are, indirectly, cultural delegates,” as said. He believes that from the small classroom, the first impression of Indonesia emerges that can stay in the students’ memories for a long time.

The INCULS experience also taught Iqbal a profound lesson. He became more sensitive to differences, learned to appreciate other cultures, and realized the importance of building equal relationships. He still maintains communication with students he has taught, strengthening the bonds that have been formed not only as teachers but also as friends.

Iqbal is committed to continuing to tutor during his studies. According to him, INCULS is not just a place to teach but a space for growth that opens up new horizons. He hopes that in the future, INCULS can introduce Indonesia from a broader perspective, from traditional dances and clothing to daily life that is rich in local values.

“You can learn Bahasa Indonesia from anywhere,” he said. He says the most important thing is the spirit to understand and the courage to open yourself up. In language, there is culture, and in culture, there is the way we humanize humans.

[Public Relation of INCULS UGM, Thareeq Arkan Falakh]

Yogyakarta, 24/01/2025 – Students from the Gadjah Mada International Fellowship (GMIF) program had the opportunity to visit the UGM Museum as part of the Listening and Reading course. This visit is not just an educational trip, but also an in-depth reflection on the role of educational institutions in shaping a better society. The UGM Museum presents the story of the journey of the oldest university in Indonesia, including its various contributions in the fields of science, social, and culture.

The sections in this museum are divided into six periods in the development of UGM, namely:

1. In the Midst of the Struggle (1946-1949), This section tells the history of the founding of Universitas Gadjah Mada. It begins with the presentation of the early story of the pioneering of the Universitas Gadjah Mada institution and the important figures who played a role in the process.
2. Laying the Foundation of Education (1949-1960), This section tells the story of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s exploration and efforts to establish its identity and contribute to Indonesia. The narrative focuses on the development of the idea that students do not only learn and become students, but also participate in physical struggles and critical thinking.
3. Building National Civilization (1961-1982), This section tells about the innovations and findings of the academic community of Universitas Gadjah Mada that are appropriate and beneficial for society.
4. Becoming a World University (1982-2002), During this period, it is described that Universitas Gadjah Mada’s efforts to become famous in the eyes of the world through various literary works of the academic community and various programs such as Real Work Lectures (KKN).
5. Upholding the Dignity of the Nation (2002-2017), The University of Gadjah Mada is one of the pioneers in the development of values ​​and innovations that will elevate the dignity and status of the Indonesian nation in the eyes of the world. This is shown through various works based on the values ​​of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s identity.
6. Living in Bulaksumur, One of the interesting facts discovered by the participants was that the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, once lived in the UGM environment. This shows that this university has become part of global history and continues to contribute to building world civilization.

During the visit, GMIF students participated in various interactive activities designed to deepen their understanding of the history and role of UGM. They took a guided tour of the museum by the curator, listened to explanations about the historical collections, and discussed UGM’s contributions in various fields. Not only that, they also participated in a group reflection session, where they shared perspectives on how history can inspire a better future. This activity not only improved their academic understanding but also strengthened togetherness and collaboration among students.

Quality education is the main key in creating a generation that is aware of the importance of history and oriented towards a sustainable future. Through direct experiences such as museum visits, students not only gain academic insight but also grow awareness of the importance of innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration in building a more advanced society.

Initiatives like this also reflect the spirit of education that is not only limited to the classroom, but also builds curiosity, appreciation for cultural heritage, and encourages a constructive exchange of ideas. With more students involved in activities based on historical and cultural exploration, it is hoped that individuals will be formed who are not only academically intelligent but also have high social awareness.

Museums are not just repositories of artifacts from the past, but also living laboratories that connect history to the challenges of the present and the future. By integrating experiential learning, we contribute to creating a more just, inclusive and sustainable world for all.

[INCULS, Thareeq Arkan Falakh]

Yogyakarta, 26/3/2025 –   Get ready for an exciting learning journey in the Odd Semester 2025/2026! Join the INCULS Regular Program at UGM, where you can enhance your Indonesian language skills while experiencing Indonesia’s rich culture.

Registration Period: March 21 – May 26, 2025

Location: Online at admission.ugm.ac.id/registration

Program: INCULS Regular Program (Odd Semester 2025/2026)

Register now and be part of an international learning experience!

Open to the public!

Regular Program

An offline learning program held in 15-17 weeks (1 semester). Every year, INCULS holds two semesters of the regular program. The 1st semester begins in early August and the 2nd semester begins in February for each academic year. 

In this program, students in the beginner level are assigned to take 12 credits (12 hours/week). Students in the intermediate level must register for a minimum of 8 credits and maximum of12 credits. Students in the advanced level must register for a minimum of 6 credits and maximum of 12 credits. 

Aside from the language courses (reading, writing, conversation, listening, grammar, and vocabulary), INCULS also provides elective courses such as Translation of English Indonesian, Translation of Japanese-Indonesian, Indonesian for Research, Translation of Korean-Indonesian, Indonesian History, Indonesian Culture, Indonesian Politics, Indonesian Language and Literature, and Indonesian Tourism. 

All subjects are taught by professors of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. At the end of the course, students will receive a certificate of completion and transcript signed by the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Gadjah Mada University.

For More Information: https://bit.ly/INCULSBrochure

How To Apply: https://bit.ly/INCULSHowtoApply

Apply Here: admission.ugm.ac.id/registration

[Public Relations of INCULS, Decika Syahda Maharani]