On Friday (November 21, 2025), Prof. Dr. Pujo Semedi served as a panel discussant in the session “Monsters, Devils, and Survival: The Persistence of Plantations and People in the Scholarship of Pujo Semedi” at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Anthropological Association (AAA) in New Orleans, LA, supported by FULLBRIGHT funding through the Scholar in Residence Grant at the University of Colorado Boulder for Fall 2025. The panel was inspired by Pujo’s academic work on plantations, which investigates how colonial hegemony in its efforts to build capital accumulation by sacrificing human sociality has instead resulted in the loss of assets and weakened capacities for survival. In his presentation, Pujo invited participants to explore how non-human entities such as “ghosts” influence social and material relations within plantation environments.

Through ethnographic research in Kalimantan’s palm oil plantations, Java’s tea plantations, and Germany’s vineyards, Pujo argues that “ghosts” are understood as empirical and material realities by plantation communities. Although spiritual beings are not bound by physical laws or fixed forms, belief in them becomes a productive lens for ethical and emic understanding. Positioned within a strong postcolonial perspective, Pujo’s ideas are seen as important for advancing research on extraction and imperial accumulation in postcolonial nations. The panel, featuring Carla Jones and five PhD students from the University of Colorado Boulder, embodied efforts to decolonize knowledge, highlighting Pujo Semedi’s role in fostering cross-cultural academic collaboration.

Author: Penulis: Okky Chandra Baskoro

Yogyakarta, 18 November 2025 — As part of its ongoing effort to expand creative dialogue within the academic community, the Master’s Program in Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a public lecture titled “Tracing Self-Identity Through Fiction” on Tuesday, 18 November 2025, in Room 204 of the Soegondo Building, FIB UGM. The event featured California-based writer of Vietnamese–Indonesian descent, Mazdo, as the keynote speaker, with Naria Nur Iftitah serving as moderator. Her presence drew enthusiastic attention from students, alumni, and literary researchers eager to explore how fiction can serve as a medium for reflecting identity, personal experience, and socio-cultural dynamics.

In her presentation, Mazdo explained that writing, for her, is a deep dialogue between personal experience, imagination, and the internal questions that continually shape her creative process. She introduced three of her short stories as examples of how she navigates identity through fiction. The first piece she discussed, When the Moths Came (2023), stems from her personal experience. “This story began from my experience living in an apartment where moths were flying everywhere— in the kitchen, around the living room, everywhere. I felt disturbed, but I thought it would be interesting to turn it into a short story,” she explained. From this simple experience, Mazdo crafted a narrative about a married couple dealing with the constant presence of moths, which disrupt their daily life and create emotional distance between them.

Her second story, The Collector (2024), is rooted in her time studying at the Southeast Asia Program building at Cornell University, which was filled with cultural artifacts. She invited the audience to examine how such objects hold long historical traces, including power relations between the United States and Southeast Asian nations. Through the perspective of two curious and innocent children, she demonstrates how Orientalism and colonial traces can be reimagined in fictional space.

Meanwhile, her story Cut Blooms (2025) highlights the relationship between two sisters—shaped by affection, misunderstanding, and an unbreakable emotional bond. Mazdo shared that the inspiration for this work came from her closeness to her own sisters. “When I write, inspiration can come from anywhere, even from my own life experiences. For example, Cut Blooms comes from my personal experience, but I do not write it literally as it happened. Since I write fiction, only small details that truly happened in my life are adapted into the story,” she explained. This statement helped the audience understand that fiction does not require literal adherence to real events, but instead transforms lived experience into a broader emotional structure.

The public lecture also aligned with values of social and cultural sustainability. Through her stories, Mazdo demonstrated that literature can serve as a tool for cultivating empathy, honoring diverse identities, and encouraging reflection on one’s place within larger historical contexts.

The question-and-answer session unfolded warmly and thoughtfully. The first question came from Marisa Santi (Kagama UGM), who asked about the narrative approach Mazdo most frequently uses, whether she prefers the author as an omniscient narrator or allows the characters full autonomy. Responding to this, Mazdo said, “I tend to use the first approach, where the writer serves as the narrator.” She added that this position allows her to guide the fictional world while still giving her characters space to move freely.

The next question was posed by Marsya Kamila, a student of UGM’s Master’s Program in Literature, who asked whether Mazdo plans to write fiction that explicitly addresses migration or identity exploration in the United States, given that her parents migrated there. Mazdo responded enthusiastically: “Yes, because both of my parents come from Vietnam and Indonesia, I think it would be interesting to write fiction that gives voice to our origins and experiences.” Her answer indicates that family history and migration remain enduring sources of inspiration in her creative journey.

The event concluded with great appreciation from participants, who felt they gained new insights into how fiction operates as a tool for self-exploration, historical reading, and reinterpreting lived experience. The Master’s Program in Literature hopes that similar public lectures will continue to provide creative spaces that strengthen literary literacy while fostering cultural awareness and sustainability in society.

[Master’s Program in Literature, Marsya Kamila]

Yogyakarta, 13 November 2025 — The Master’s Program in Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, welcomed an academic visit from the Master’s Program in Literary Studies, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro at Room 709, Soegondo Building, FIB UGM. The event was part of the ongoing implementation of the cooperation agreement between the two faculties in education, research, and community engagement.

The visit began with a warm welcome from the UGM Master’s in Literature team, who greeted the UNDIP delegation of lecturers and students. From the outset, the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, reflecting the longstanding relationship between the two institutions.

The first remarks were delivered by the Head of UGM’s Master’s Program in Literature, Prof. Dr. Aprinus Salam, M.Hum. In his address, he expressed his delight in receiving the academic visit. He emphasized the personal and academic closeness he shares with UNDIP, stating that the meeting felt like a family gathering. “I feel very close to UNDIP. I once taught there, and several of the lecturers are my close friends. So today truly feels like meeting family,” he said, receiving warm responses from attendees.

This was followed by remarks from the Head of the Master’s Program in Literary Studies at Universitas Diponegoro, Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, M.Hum. He conveyed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to visit UGM in person and observe firsthand the learning atmosphere and academic dynamics of UGM’s Master’s Program in Literature. He noted that the visit was valuable for gaining insights into program management and for strengthening inter-faculty collaboration.

The event continued with presentations of study program profiles from both institutions. Representatives from UGM’s Master’s in Literature and UNDIP’s Master’s in Literary Studies shared information on curriculum structures, research focuses, teaching models, and recent developments within their programs. The session was interactive, with each institution exchanging insights and experiences. UNDIP presented several interesting points regarding learning strategies and curriculum innovation, while UGM elaborated on its academic management approach, including how the program operates with six specialization tracks.

The discussion grew livelier during the Q&A session. One UNDIP lecturer inquired about how UGM manages to open six specializations at the master’s level—namely Indonesian Literature, Javanese Literature, English Literature, French Literature, Japanese Literature, and Arabic Literature. In response, Prof. Aprinus explained that launching a specialization requires at least ten interested students and available faculty members. If no students register for a specialization in a particular semester, the track will not be opened for that term. He emphasized that this system has been implemented for a long time.

Students from both universities were equally active in the discussion. A UNDIP student asked about the forms of assignments and examinations used in the UGM Master’s program. UGM students from various specializations then shared their experiences. Nada from Arabic Literature explained, “In the first semester, we study many theoretical foundations as preparation for writing the thesis later on, such as sociology of literature, feminism, post-structuralism, and postcolonialism. In the second semester we continue with specialization courses, and in the third and fourth semesters we focus on the thesis.”

Nai from English Literature added, “For final assessments or examinations, they are usually in the form of academic papers, and in some English Literature specialization courses, we also have weekly essay assignments.”. Meanwhile, Marsya from French Literature shared her experience as the only student in her specialization that year. “In my cohort, I happened to be the only one taking the French Literature specialization. However, the classes were still conducted, and the lecturers continued to provide materials. As for the final assignment, it is similar to other specializations—either a draft article or a submitted article to a SINTA-indexed or Scopus-indexed journal,” she explained.

The Q&A session created an intimate academic atmosphere as lecturers and students from both institutions exchanged questions, perspectives, and reflections. The interaction demonstrated a strong enthusiasm for learning from one another and building a broader academic network.

The academic visit concluded with hopes that the collaboration between UGM’s Master’s in Literature and UNDIP’s Master’s in Literary Studies will continue to grow through similar activities in the future. The meeting not only strengthened institutional ties but also opened meaningful avenues for knowledge exchange, enriching the academic experience for all participants.

[Master’s Program in Literature, Marsya Kamila]

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, September 27, 2025 – The collaboration between the Arabic Literature Student Association (Ikmasa) UGM and the Department of Village Community Development of BEM KM UGM brought forth an inspiring event titled the SEDASA Educational Talkshow (Suara Pemuda untuk Kemajuan Desa / Youth Voices for Village Advancement), as part of the Gemilang Desa 2025 series. Held at the Poerbatjaraka Auditorium, Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, the event was lively and full of enthusiasm, attended by high school students as well as university students from across Indonesia.

The talk show featured distinguished speakers, including Joko Susilo, Founder of Gunungkidul Menginspirasi and Head of Training and Consultancy at the Nalar Institute; Prof. Irfan Dwidya Prijambada, M.Eng., Ph.D., Professor at the Faculty of Agriculture UGM; and keynote speaker KPH H. Yudanegara, Ph.D., Head of the Office of Village Community Empowerment, Population, and Civil Registration of Yogyakarta Special Region. The session was moderated by Antonia Elena Listya Araminta, Environmental Ambassador of DIY 2025, who guided the discussion warmly and interactively.

This activity served as a vital dialogue space to address modern challenges faced by villages, ranging from limited access to information, insufficient utilization of technology, to the lack of open dialogue between young people and community leaders. Through the talk show, participants gained direct insights from real-life case studies and practical strategies to optimize village potential. This aligns with the spirit of the Kongres Abdi Desa 2025, carrying the theme “Light from the Village, Weaving Hopes for Indonesia.”

General coordinator of the event, Faris Zakiy Ramadhan, highlighted the remarkable enthusiasm of the participants from the very beginning. “Today we will hold the second and third activities, namely the Gemilang Desa Competition and the SEDASA Talkshow. The Gemilang Desa Competition successfully carried out its series of contests, with the final day being held today. Thank you to the 377 registrants of the Gemilang Desa Competition, which consists of 12 teams in the Business Plan Competition, 101 teams in the Essay Competition, and 26 participants in the Poster Competition. Today we will hold the final round featuring the top 10 individuals and 10 teams from each branch, representing their institutions from all over Indonesia,” he explained.

Through this talk show, young people were encouraged not only to understand village issues but also to foster awareness of realizing village potential and addressing the challenges villages face in the modern era. Moreover, the event created an inclusive and interactive platform to share perspectives, innovative ideas, and cross-regional experiences.

This initiative also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in reducing inequality (SDG 10), improving the quality of education (SDG 4), and strengthening sustainable communities (SDG 11). Villages are positioned not merely as objects of development but as sources of inspiration and drivers of national progress without losing their cultural identity.

The festive atmosphere peaked when the session concluded with the announcement of the winners of the Gemilang Desa competitions. The participants responded with great enthusiasm, taking home new inspiration on how the real contributions of young people can be the key to advancing villages. With the spirit of collaboration, Gemilang Desa 2025 proved that Indonesian students and youth can play an active role in building villages that are both competitive and sustainable.

[Public Relations of Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Candra Solihin]