Yogyakarta, April 14, 2023 – A proud academic achievement has once again been made by Hadijah Rima, a student of the Master’s Program in Literature at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), who has been selected as a presenter at the 2nd International Conference on Debate & Dialogue (ICDD2). This prestigious conference will take place in Doha, Qatar, on May 19–20, 2025, organized by QatarDebate under the auspices of the Qatar Foundation. This accomplishment stands as a testament to Rima’s perseverance and dedication in the field of debate and academic research.

Having been actively involved in Arabic-language debate since 2020, Rima has an impressive track record in various competitive forums. She previously participated in debate competitions organized by QatarDebate during the 2021–2022 period, an experience that broadened her perspective and honed her argumentative skills. The selection of her research paper to be presented at ICDD2 was the result of a highly competitive process, with over 300 abstracts and 100 full papers submitted by academics and practitioners from around the world. Meeting rigorous academic standards and undergoing thorough review by experts, the paper she began writing in August 2024 finally earned international recognition after passing multiple selection phases and was officially accepted in 2025.

QatarDebate, the main organizer of this conference, is Qatar’s national debate center established by the Qatar Foundation in 2008. This institution serves as a platform for promoting a culture of critical thinking, open dialogue, and constructive debate both in the Arab world and internationally. With the vision of “Enriching Dialogue, Empowering Minds,” QatarDebate equips young generations with in-depth argumentative skills and facilitates exploration of global issues from broader perspectives. As a part of the Qatar Foundation—a non-profit organization focused on education, research, innovation, and community development—QatarDebate strives to make a meaningful impact at local, regional, and global levels.

ICDD2 is a continuation of the inaugural conference held in 2023 and aims to strengthen interdisciplinary academic networks in the fields of argumentation, rhetoric, linguistics, dialogue, critical thinking, education, and Islamic philosophy. By bringing together scholars, practitioners, and debate and dialogue enthusiasts, the conference serves as an important forum for advancing intellectual discourse on a global scale. Its organization also highlights the growing expansion of debate and dialogue culture within modern academic contexts, which has developed significantly over the past decades.

In addition to her accomplishments in debating, Rima is also active as an academic translator, working with conference documents translated from Arabic to English, English to Indonesian, and Arabic to Indonesian. She frequently participates in various academic competitions and has received multiple awards. This year, she earned the prestigious LPDP Scholarship (PK 222) to continue her studies at UGM’s Master’s Program in Literature—an achievement that further solidifies her status as a talented young academic.

In an interview, Rima expressed her gratitude and disbelief at her achievement. She admitted that she never imagined her journey in Arabic-language debate, which began in 2020, would take her to the international stage. “It started as just trying out competitions, but it brought me this far,” she said. Rima also shared the major challenges she faced, including debating against native Arabic speakers. “I felt insecure and almost gave up, but I kept learning and sharpening my argumentation skills,” she explained. She emphasized that perseverance and genuine dedication to one’s field are essential, as opportunities often come from unexpected places. “If we are truly diligent, there’s always a way—and that’s where all the possibilities begin,” she concluded.

With her success in this academic event, Rima not only brings pride to UGM but also strengthens Indonesia’s representation in the international academic arena. Her participation in ICDD2 is expected to contribute significantly to the development of debate and dialogue studies, and to inspire younger generations to continue creating and exploring their academic potential at the global level.

[Public Relation Master of Literature, Anisa Dien Rahmawati]

Yogyakarta, March 25, 2025 – Theories of Globalization is a mandatory course in the Department of Intercultural Studies that examines the impact of globalization from various perspectives. Globalization is understood as a phenomenon with multiple influences—both positive and negative—on culture, ecology, and the way of life of local communities. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students are encouraged to understand how globalization affects social structures and cultural identities across different parts of the world. By the end of the course, students are expected to have a more balanced perception of globalization and be able to analyze its impact on local cultures. The course is conducted through a combination of lectures, discussions, and presentations, with structured assignments and essay writing as part of the evaluation process.

In its sixth session, the course was taught by Dr. Sri Pangastoeti, M. Hum., who explored various academic perspectives on globalization, including studies from Japanese literature. One of the key topics discussed was the karayuki-san phenomenon, the role of geisha, Japan’s isolation policy, and the historical dynamics between Japan and the United States that continue to shape their cultural and political relations today.

One of the often-overlooked impacts of globalization is how the global economic system has influenced migration dynamics and the role of women in history. Labor mobility, whether voluntary or forced, has often been shaped by broader social and economic conditions. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan experienced this phenomenon, particularly in the case of women known as karayuki-san.

The karayuki-san phenomenon refers to Japanese women from impoverished areas, particularly Nagasaki, who migrated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to various countries in Southeast Asia, East Asia, Siberia, and Australia. They worked in various sectors, including entertainment and prostitution. Economic hardship and social pressures forced many young women to be sent abroad as a means of survival. The presence of karayuki-san reflects the complexity of migration in the early stages of globalization, where economic and social factors drove labor mobility across national borders.

The discussion also touched on the differences between geisha and oiran. Geisha are professional artists trained in traditional Japanese arts such as music, dance, and refined conversation. Contrary to common misconceptions outside Japan, geisha are not sex workers but rather cultural performers who preserve Japanese artistic traditions. However, geisha have often been misinterpreted, partly due to inaccurate portrayals in American popular media. Western films and literature have frequently depicted geisha as sex workers or confused them with oiran—high-class courtesans who were not only skilled in the performing arts but also provided sexual services. These stereotypes have been shaped through media framing, which simplifies and distorts the distinctions between different female roles in Japan’s past.

Another significant topic discussed in the lecture was Japan’s isolationist policy, or sakoku, which was enforced during the Edo period under the Tokugawa shogunate (1603–1868). Japan closed itself off from the outside world for more than two centuries, restricting foreign interaction to maintain political and social stability and prevent external influences. This policy only ended when the United States pressured Japan to open its ports for international trade. This event marked a turning point in Japanese history, triggering modernization and integrating the country into the currents of globalization.

Japan’s relationship with the United States continued to evolve but was not always harmonious. In the early 20th century, the United States implemented discriminatory immigration policies against Asians, including the Japanese. One of the most significant was the Immigration Act of 1924, which explicitly banned Japanese immigrants from entering the U.S. This policy was driven by anti-Asian sentiment, concerns over labor competition, and political pressure from white labor groups. Discrimination against Japanese immigrants reflected the global tensions that shaped international relations at the time.

Although Japan-U.S. relations were once marked by conflict—especially during World War II—the dynamic between the two countries continued to develop. After the war, Japan underwent reconstruction with American support, eventually becoming one of the U.S.’s closest allies in the Asia-Pacific region. Beyond economic and political cooperation, cultural exchanges between the two nations have flourished. Traditional Japanese arts have gained widespread recognition in the United States, while American popular culture, such as films and music, has had a significant influence on Japanese society.

This course is taught by a team of lecturers from various academic backgrounds, providing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding globalization. Dr. Sri Pangastoeti offered in-depth insights into how globalization has shaped Japanese culture. The discussions in this lecture emphasized that globalization is not merely about economic and technological exchange but also deeply intertwined with history, identity, and complex cultural dynamics. The interaction between Japan and the United States serves as a concrete example of how globalization shapes international relationships and continuously transforms cultural landscapes.

[Public Relations American Studies, Nariza Ayu Pasha]

Yogyakarta, March 23, 2025 – In an effort to revive the intellectual legacy of one of Indonesia’s greatest literary figures, Toko Buku Natan in collaboration with the Master’s Program in Literature at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held the Centennial Commemoration of A.A. Navis at Rumah Budaya Ndalem Natan, Kotagede, Yogyakarta. This event attracted literature enthusiasts, academics, and cultural figures eager to explore A.A. Navis’ critical thoughts and contributions to national literary development. Featuring a series of activities, including academic discussions, book launches, an art exhibition, and musical performances, the commemoration became a reflective moment that delved deeper into the social, cultural, and linguistic aspects of Navis’ works.

As one of the most influential figures in Indonesian literature, A.A. Navis gained widespread recognition for his classic short story, Robohnya Surau Kami (The Collapse of Our Mosque), which offered a profound critique of societal structures. Set during the harmonious spirit of Ramadan, this event brought together various stakeholders to discuss Navis’ legacy and critical thoughts, featuring renowned speakers such as Dhianita Kusuma Pertiwi (writer and curator), Prof. Dr. Aprinus Salam (academic and literary scholar), and Nasir Tamara, M.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. (cultural expert). The discussion was further enriched by a cello performance by Lintang Pramudia Swara, providing an aesthetic and immersive experience for the participants.

One of the event’s key highlights was the launch of the book “Kesalahan dan Kejahatan dalam Berbahasa” (Errors and Crimes in Language) by Prof. Dr. Aprinus Salam. This book critically examines language awareness within social and legal contexts. Drawing from his extensive academic and professional experience as an expert witness in various linguistic cases, Prof. Aprinus presents this book as a primary reference for linguistic studies and the role of language in Indonesia’s legal practices.

During the discussion, Prof. Aprinus Salam explored the contrast between social critiques in the works of A.A. Navis and Pramoedya Ananta Toer, highlighting how Navis focused more on critiquing societal structures, while Pramoedya directed his criticisms toward the government and power structures. Meanwhile, Dhianita Kusuma Pertiwi shared her research and archival experience for the 100 Years of A.A. Navis exhibition, held in Jakarta and at UNESCO in Paris. She traced Navis’ educational background at INS Kayutanam, an institution that played a crucial role in shaping his critical thinking, not only in literature but also in music and visual arts.

At the same time, Nasir Tamara, M.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. connected A.A. Navis’ intellectual lineage to the Académie française in Europe, particularly France, which was heavily influenced by the ideas of René Descartes. Citing Descartes’ philosophy “Cogito, ergo sum” (I think, therefore I am), Nasir Tamara emphasized that intellectual awareness and critical thinking are the foundations of a true thinker and writer. This perspective aligns with A.A. Navis’ approach to literary discourse, where he not only documented reality but also challenged, questioned, and inspired social change.

As part of the celebration, Lintang Pramudia Swara delivered a cello performance, enriching participants’ reflective experience. Meanwhile, an art exhibition by renowned artist Anagard featured 11 portraits of prominent Minangkabau figures, including A.A. Navis, Tan Malaka, Sutan Sjahrir, Buya Hamka, and Asrul Sani. This exhibition provided a visual narrative of the intellectual contributions and roles of Minangkabau figures in Indonesia’s national history.

The event also served as a space for literary appreciation, featuring poetry readings by Afnan Malay and a recital of Gurindam 12 by Raja Ali Haji, performed by Nasir Tamara, further enriching the significance and atmosphere of this literary celebration.

During the reflective session, Prof. Aprinus Salam presented two thought-provoking statements for participants to ponder. The first, “Your tongue is sharper than a sword,” underscored the extraordinary power of words in shaping, influencing, and even overturning societal structures. The second, “Words are only sharper for those who are sensitive,” highlighted language as not merely a communication tool but a profound expression with transformative power for those attuned to social and humanitarian realities.

This event was part of a broader initiative to honor great figures in Indonesian literature, following the centennial commemoration of Pramoedya Ananta Toer held earlier. Through the centennial of A.A. Navis, the discussion reinforced awareness of literacy, intellectual heritage, and its relevance to younger generations. Prof. Aprinus Salam emphasized that language possesses transformative power, envisioning a future where short story writers and poets stage protests by reciting poetry in front of legislative buildings, proving that words wield more power than physical weapons.

The event concluded with a communal iftar (breaking of the fast), not only fostering solidarity but also offering a profound reflection on the role of literature in shaping social and cultural consciousness. Toko Buku Natan, in collaboration with the Master’s Program in Literature at UGM, remains committed to facilitating academic discussions, literary forums, and various literacy initiatives to support intellectual and cultural development in Indonesia.

[Public Relations Magister of Literature, Anisa Dien Rahmawati]

Yogyakarta, 26/3/2025 – The Middle Eastern Culture & Religion Issues (MECRI) Journal has reached an important milestone by receiving SINTA 4 accreditation on Friday, March 21, 2025. Established in 2022, the journal is managed by the Middle Eastern Cultural Studies program within the Department of Intercultural Studies at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM). MECRI focuses on the study of language, literature, culture, and religion in the Middle East, providing a valuable platform for researchers to explore the complex interactions between culture and religion and their impact on global society. This accreditation reinforces MECRI’s position as a leading reference journal in cross-cultural studies, particularly regarding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4, which emphasizes quality education. 

As an academic platform, MECRI offers researchers, academics, professionals, practitioners, and students a space to share ideas through high-quality empirical and theoretical research articles. Topics covered include social, political, cultural, literary, linguistic, and religious studies related to Middle Eastern Studies. The journal publishes articles regularly in July and December and follows a strict peer-review process conducted by a team of editors and reviewers from leading universities in Indonesia and abroad. MECRI also establishes strategic partnerships with Ittihad Mudarrisin Lugah Arabiyyah (IMLA) Indonesia—a national organization that oversees Arabic language teachers—and the International Center for Arab Studies and Training (ICAST) in Egypt. These collaborations not only ensure the maintenance of academic quality but also enhance the journal’s relevance to the development of global science. 

The SINTA 4 accreditation represents a significant opportunity for MECRI to further promote cross-cultural dialogue through research on Middle Eastern language, literature, religion, and culture. The published articles enrich academic understanding and offer practical solutions to various global challenges. With a broad range of topics, MECRI has featured numerous insightful articles on contemporary issues in the Middle East, such as feminism, social inequality, cultural diplomacy, and peace efforts. These studies contribute to the achievement of several other SDGs, including SDG 5 on gender equality, SDG 10 on reducing social inequality, and SDG 16 on peace and justice. 

As part of its commitment to the SDGs, MECRI continues to strive to be a research platform that promotes cross-cultural understanding for a more inclusive world. With this achievement, MECRI is poised to advance as a leading force in innovative and globally impactful Middle Eastern studies.

[Public Relations Master of Middle East Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Nafila Azzahra]

Yogyakarta, 25/3/2025 – For the past four months, GMIF 2024 students have been immersed in their studies at INCULS, refining their Indonesian language skills in reading, listening, writing, speaking, grammar, and vocabulary. However, their learning experience extended far beyond the classroom. Through educational excursions to the Chocolate Monggo Museum & Factory, UGM Museum, and Grhatama Pustaka Library, they gained a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture.

As their time at INCULS drew to a close, students were assigned a final reading task to reflect on their experiences. The overall sentiment was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the quality of instruction. Irakiza Gideon shared his appreciation:

“Their patience and encouragement fostered an environment that nurtured my growth. Now, I can confidently communicate in Indonesian, which is a testament to the effectiveness of their teaching.”

INCULS is not merely a language center; it is a place where students receive guidance from experienced educators while being immersed in Indonesian culture. Many students highlighted the warmth and unwavering support of their lecturers, tutors, and staff.

“Every lecturer is incredibly kind, approachable, and always willing to help,” one student noted.

For some, INCULS became more than an academic institution—it became a home away from home.

“INCULS was not just a place where I learned Indonesian; it was where I found a second family.”
“The lecturers and staff do not simply teach; they cultivate an environment that feels as welcoming as family.”

When describing INCULS in English, many students simply called it “home”:

“INCULS provided not only education but also a profound sense of belonging.”

As their journey at INCULS comes to an end, GMIF students unanimously agree that their experience here is one they will cherish for a lifetime. Their heartfelt testimonials further reinforce INCULS’ reputation as a premier institution for Indonesian language and cultural studies, offering a welcoming and enriching environment for international students.

[Public Relations of INCULS, Decika Syahda Maharani]