Yogyakarta, Thursday, September 18, 2025 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), has once again marked an important academic milestone with the completion of a doctoral research in philology. Rahmat, a doctoral candidate in the Humanities Study Program, successfully defended his dissertation entitled “The Implementation of Serat Sèstradi in Pakualaman Folktales: A Philological Study.” The research was supervised by Promoter Prof. Dr. Sangidu, M.Hum., and Co-Promoter Dr. Sri Ratna Sakti Mulya, M.Hum.

This dissertation is rooted in the reality that Javanese literature in the Duchy of Pakualaman continues to serve as an intellectual legacy to this day. Literary works, particularly folktales, were produced for internal educational purposes and transmitted across generations. However, the diversity and depth of Pakualaman folktales have not been fully explored in previous scholarly studies.

In his research, Rahmat undertook a comprehensive approach that included inventory, description, transliteration, editing, and translation of folktale texts. He also analyzed the formal structures of the texts and revealed their purposes of creation. Through a critical edition method, the study presents thirteen manuscripts comprising a total of thirty-seven edited and translated folktales.

The findings show that Pakualaman folktales are generally composed in tembang macapat poetic form, containing core ideas and accompanied by liding dongèng or moral messages. These texts were not created merely for entertainment but also served as sources of knowledge and tools for character education. The embedded sèstradi values highlight the binary opposition of good and bad characters, functioning as moral guidance for the younger generation of Pakualaman to grow into noble individuals.

Rahmat further revealed that the creation of these folktales was influenced by the lèlaku (life experiences) of Pakualam as well as the historical context of their time. The messages conveyed through the texts emphasize the cultivation of resilience, perseverance in facing hardships, and the preparation of future generations to embrace societal changes. Thus, Pakualaman folktales function not only as literary heritage but also as vehicles of moral education and wisdom for life. This dissertation defence was also attended by the representatives of Pura Pakualaman GKBRAy Adipati Paku Alam X, GPH Indrokusumo, BRAy Indrokusumo, and GPH Wijoyo Harimurti.

This research contributes significantly to the preservation of Javanese cultural heritage and enriches the field of philology in Indonesia. Moreover, the dissertation aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by strengthening character education based on local wisdom. It also relates to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, through the preservation of cultural values and traditions that constitute the historical identity of the Pakualaman Duchy.

[Public Relations Office, FIB UGM – Alma Syahwalani]

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, 15 September 2025 – The Study Program of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), presented artist Paksi Raras Alit in an Expert Lecture themed “Adapting Ancient Manuscripts into Performing Arts.” On this occasion, Paksi delivered a presentation entitled “From Page to the Stage: Manuscript to Stage Performance” which highlighted the creative process as well as the challenges of transforming ancient texts into stage performances.

Paksi explained that adapting ancient manuscripts into the performing arts is not merely transferring written texts into forms of drama, theater, wayang, or music. Rather, it involves a long process of rewriting, editing, adapting, and developing imagination to bring the text to life on stage. This creative process covers several crucial stages, including imaginative exploration, content adaptation, co-modification with the creative team, and technical production. Ultimately, all these steps are directed toward creating a performance that can be understood and appreciated by the audience.

However, significant challenges inevitably arise throughout the process. Paksi emphasized the fundamental questions that every artist or creator must answer: Where should one begin? What needs to be included or omitted? How can long descriptive passages about characters, places, and events be translated into a stage performance? Should all dialogues be presented in full? Often, manuscripts feature characters who speak in lengthy, elaborate texts that must be condensed to remain effective on stage.

This discussion demonstrated that performing arts are not merely a form of entertainment but also a meeting space between text, creativity, and audience. Furthermore, the creative endeavor of reviving ancient manuscripts on stage is also part of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically Goal 4 on Quality Education, which encourages knowledge development based on tradition, and Goal 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, through the preservation and actualization of cultural heritage in a modern context.

Through this event, FIB UGM reaffirmed its commitment as an academic space not only to study ancient manuscripts but also to connect them with performing arts, ensuring that tradition remains relevant and can be passed down across generations.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, September 11, 2025 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) warmly welcomed a cultural visit from Osaka University, Japan, in an event filled with hospitality and the spirit of cultural exchange. Organized by the Department of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, this program served as an important moment to strengthen international relations through deeper cultural understanding.

The event opened with a performance of Tari Sasanti Manghayu-hayu by students of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Department. The dance, rich in symbolism, represented a gesture of welcome while highlighting Javanese traditional values of hospitality and harmony.

Head of the Department, Dr. Dra. Daru Winarti, M.Hum., expressed her pride in the continuation of this meaningful academic tradition.
“Looking at what has been accomplished over the years, this activity is extraordinary, especially for our students, as it provides invaluable experiences in interacting with both domestic and international students,” she remarked.

A warm response also came from Osaka University, represented by supervising lecturer Dr. Yumi Sugahara. She shared that student visits to Yogyakarta have been conducted since 2013, with an average of 30 students visiting FIB UGM every two years. This consistent collaboration reflects the strong commitment of both institutions to building cultural bridges that mutually enrich one another.

During the cultural presentation session, Osaka University students introduced various aspects of life in Japan. They presented summer traditions, showcased Japanese culinary specialties along with food sample-making techniques, and introduced both digital and traditional Japanese games. Additionally, they shared traditional toys and explained Japanese perspectives on religion and spirituality, offering participants deeper insights into the broader way of life in Japan.

This event was not only a platform for cultural exchange but also embodied the spirit of sustainable development as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The collaboration between FIB UGM and Osaka University underscores their shared commitment to providing inclusive and quality education (SDG 4) and fostering global partnerships for sustainability (SDG 17). Such exchanges provide students with opportunities to learn beyond geographical and cultural boundaries, shaping a young generation that is more open-minded, tolerant, and globally oriented.

Through this program, Universitas Gadjah Mada once again demonstrated its role as a hub for cultural and intellectual exchange, consistently encouraging international cooperation for a more sustainable and harmonious future.

[Public Relations FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, August 4, 2025 – Muhammad Hafidz Haikal Amirza, commonly known as Haikal, a 2022 cohort student of the Cultural Anthropology Study Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is currently participating in the Community Service and Empowerment Learning Program (KKN-PPM) UGM Period II of 2025 in Bantane Village, Rainis District, Talaud Islands Regency, North Sulawesi. This region is one of Indonesia’s outermost points, directly bordering Davao del Sur, Philippines, making it a strategic yet challenging location for community service programs.

Haikal is part of the KKN Merintis Rainis team in the education sector, consisting of seven students (3 males, 4 females). Throughout the program, all members reside together in the house of the Head of Bantane Village. The presence of the KKN Merintis Rainis team has been warmly welcomed by the villagers, marked by a spirit of mutual cooperation. From the onset, the community exhibited a strong sense of kinship, with men voluntarily erecting a welcoming tent and women preparing meals to share. Such communal spirit is also evident in various village activities, from birthday celebrations and weddings to traditional and religious events.

During nearly two months of service, Haikal focused on the education and socio-cultural sectors, aligning with his background in anthropology. He and his team designed and implemented various activities, including cultural classes for village children and nature-based character education or nature schools. To support the transformation of primary education in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas, Haikal and his team also facilitated multimedia and information technology training for teachers at SDK Torsina Bantane. This program aims to enhance educators’ capacity to deliver creative and adaptive learning in line with technological advancements.

Additionally, Haikal contributed to the establishment of the Bantane Village Youth Organization (Karang Taruna) as a platform to harness the potential of the village’s younger generation. He was also involved in reorganizing the school library, assisting in teaching at both elementary and high school levels, and supporting resident data collection through the Siga Mobile application, which is part of a technology-based public service system.

An output of the KKN Merintis Rainis program is a study titled “Borders as Social Spaces: Exploration of Identity and Marginalization (Case Study of Bantane Village, Rainis District, Talaud Islands Regency).” This research highlights the unique social dynamics and cultural identity of the Bantane community.

During his stay in Bantane, Haikal observed various interesting and distinctive aspects. He noted that the spirit of mutual cooperation remains vibrant, nightly gatherings serve as warm social interactions, and strong tolerance exists among residents. The clean, pollution-free environment, clear skies, and abundance of coconut trees characterize the village landscape. However, challenges such as frequent power outages and limited communication signals are part of the daily reality.

Haikal’s activities during KKN also directly align with efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through educational assistance and technology training for teachers and village children, Haikal contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and quality education for all. His involvement in resident data collection, library revitalization, and the formation of the village youth organization also supports SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by strengthening social and institutional capacities at the local level.

Furthermore, by choosing a service location in a 3T area, Haikal and the KKN team strive to promote equitable development and service access, aligning with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by reaching regions that have been less accessible to development. The successful collaboration between students, village government, schools, and the community also reflects the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, emphasizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration in sustainable development.

Haikal also conveyed a message of encouragement to his peers at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM who will participate in the next KKN period:

“Best wishes to FIB friends who will undertake KKN. It will be a very valuable experience for you not just about service, but also about how we learn and integrate with the existing community. Use the knowledge you’ve gained on campus to make an impact and contribute to Indonesian society.”

[Public Relations FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]