Yogyakarta, October 29, 2025 — The Study Program of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), held an event titled “From Paper to Stage: Alihwahana Workshop on Javanese-Islamic Epics from Literary Texts to Performance.” The workshop served as a learning platform for students to practice the process of alihwahana—the transformation of literary texts into creative and communicative performing arts.

The event opened with I Made Christian Wiranata Rediana as the master of ceremonies, who began the program with a joint prayer for its smooth running. The workshop then continued with an opening remark by Head of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program, Daru Winarti, M.Hum. In her speech, Daru expressed hope that this activity would serve as a space for students to enhance their artistic abilities while realizing that literary texts hold great potential to be brought to life on stage.

The workshop featured several experienced speakers in the fields of art and culture, including Kusnanta Riwus Ginanjar, S.Sn. (actor, playwright, director, and puppeteer of Wayang Golek Menak), Rinal Khaidar Ali, ST., M.Eng. (activist of Wayang Golek Menak), and Dr. Drs. Sudibyo, M.Hum. (Head of the Department of Language and Literature, FIB UGM). The event was moderated by Dr. Rudy Wiratama, lecturer at the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program.

In his presentation, Kusnanta Riwus Ginanjar explained the four main characteristics of art, which he considers the foundation of creative processes: seni, senengan, seneb, and serem.

“Art brings joy and entertainment. However, art is also subjective (senengan), can evoke tragedy or fear (seneb), and has a side that can both enlighten and mislead (serem),” he explained.

Kusnanta emphasized that his experiences in theater, puppetry, and film have shaped his understanding of the meaning of alihwahana. According to him, ancient manuscripts should not remain locked away in archives but instead be revived and shared with the public through performing arts such as wayang kulit, wayang golek, or theater.

He further added that the process of alihwahana is not limited to classical manuscripts but can also be applied to modern literary works such as novels or stories. Through such adaptation, students are encouraged to broaden their perspectives on literature as a living source of cultural expression.

The “From Paper to Stage” Workshop was not only a platform for sharing artistic knowledge but also a reflection of FIB UGM’s academic commitment to promoting inclusive and quality education in line with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through this activity, students were trained to think creatively, work collaboratively, and develop awareness of the importance of cultural preservation in the context of sustainability. The effort to bring Javanese manuscripts to life through performing arts represents a tangible implementation of humanistic education that values sustainability, creativity, and local wisdom.

In addition to enriching students’ learning experiences, this workshop also embodies the spirit of preserving local cultural continuity as part of sustainable community development. The synergy between art and education in this activity illustrates how the treasures of Javanese literature can remain relevant in modern society while strengthening Indonesia’s cultural identity—rooted in tradition yet open to innovation.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, May 25, 2025 — A solemn and heartfelt atmosphere filled the event “Membaca Karya Emha dan Doa Ambal Warsa Cak Nun 72 Tahun” held in celebration of the 72nd birthday of cultural and spiritual figure Emha Ainun Nadjib, widely known as Cak Nun. Hosted at the West Office Hallway of Jogja Expo Center (JEC) from 6:00 to 9:00 AM, the event drew participants from various backgrounds—academics, cultural practitioners, and the general public.

More than a tribute, the gathering served as a spiritual and intellectual forum where participants shared readings of Cak Nun’s works, offered prayers, and expressed hopes for his continued health and contribution to Indonesian culture and Islamic thought. The initiative was led by Sigit Sugito, Head of Koperasi Seniman Yogyakarta (KOSETA).

In addition to artists and cultural figures, several academics were in attendance, including Professor Aprinus Salam, Head of the Master’s Program in Literature, who read aloud one of Cak Nun’s poems. His presence was made even more meaningful as he was joined by his wife, Pristi Salam, whose melodious performance of a lyrical piece deeply moved the audience.

Also present was senior artist Yati Pesek, a well-known comedian and legendary ketoprak performer. She shared her admiration for Cak Nun’s ability to preserve local culture while remaining a devout follower of Islamic teachings. “One day I met Kyai Maimun Zubair. In his sermon, he said that local culture should go hand-in-hand with Islam. I believe Cak Nun has embodied that in his life. He remains devoted to Prophet Muhammad while upholding Javanese cultural values. That’s what I admire most about him,” she remarked.

Cultural figure Yani Saptohoedojo also highlighted the reflective and critical nature of Cak Nun’s literary works. “Sometimes his work contains criticism, but it’s always conveyed gently,” he noted, underscoring the poet’s subtle and humane approach to addressing social issues.

The event left a lasting impression on all who attended. It served as both a celebration and a reflection on the life and legacy of Cak Nun. On his 72nd birthday, attendees extended heartfelt prayers for his continued health and productivity, hoping he will persist in creating meaningful contributions to culture, spirituality, and society.

[Public Relation Magister of Literature, Marsya Kamila]

Yogyakarta, May 21, 2025 — The re-launch of Kereta Api yang Berangkat Pagi Hari by Kuntowijoyo marked a special moment at the 2025 Jogja Art + Books Fest. Held at The Ratan, Bantul, the event was attended by academics, literary activists, and literature enthusiasts. The launch discussion featured Prof. Faruk H.T.  (Lecturer in the Master’s Program in Literature and Literary Critic) and writer Mahfud Ikhwan as keynote speakers, with Amanatia Junda serving as moderator.

Originally written by Kuntowijoyo in 1964, the novel is set against the backdrop of the 1949 Indonesian revolution. Rather than emphasizing heroism, the story portrays village life, interpersonal conflict, and a collective search for the meaning of independence in a more humanistic light. This work is especially important to revisit today, notably for its unique sense of locality and spirituality.

In his presentation, Prof. Faruk highlighted that the novel expresses a spirit of reconciliation and communal cooperation as a way out of socio-political conflict. “This novel offers a communal solution to the tensions of that time—between the colonizers and the colonized, between nationalists and traditional elders. Its foundation is oral tradition, and forgiveness is the key theme,” he explained. This underscores an effort toward ideological reconciliation after conflict.

Mahfud Ikhwan, affectionately known as Cak Mahfud and widely recognized for his deep interest in the history of Indonesian literature, noted that the novel had long been “forgotten” and seldom read by the younger generation. He also drew attention to the historical context of Kuntowijoyo’s creative process. “The novel was written between 1963 and 1964, but it is often associated with the events of 1965. This is interesting because we might ask whether Kunto was responding to the events of 1949 or actually preparing for 1965,” he remarked.

The re-publication of this novel was initiated by Dodo Hartoko through Pabrik Tulisan Publishing, with illustrations by Enka Komariah. “Our hope is that this work can reach younger readers without feeling outdated or vintage,” said Dodo in his opening remarks. The new edition features a minimalist and modern design while remaining faithful to the original manuscript. He also emphasized that the setting of the story—Ngawonggo, Ceper—further strengthens the novel’s local thematic character.

The discussion session was lively and interactive. During the Q&A, Arif Kurniawan asked, “If Kuntowijoyo were given the opportunity to write and respond to today’s chaotic political landscape, what would come out of his typewriter?” Prof. Faruk responded by reflecting on Kuntowijoyo’s creative trajectory. “If we look at his first novel, it was very spontaneous, with little control—like the author was directly conversing with the reader. Over time, his writing became more disciplined and autonomous, as though the author gradually stepped back. If Kuntowijoyo were still alive and responding to today’s issues, perhaps his writing would be more realistic, yet still carry his prophetic mission,” he stated. Mahfud added that Kuntowijoyo’s authorship evolved alongside his deepening Sufi ideology: “Kuntowijoyo’s works do not merely record history—they provide meaning through spirituality. If he were writing today, that would likely still define his style.”

The re-launch of Kereta Api yang Berangkat Pagi Hari not only marks the return of one of Indonesia’s important literary works to the public eye but also underscores the significance of preserving classic literature. This event is part of the Jogja Art + Books Fest 2025’s broader mission to position Yogyakarta as a collaborative space for art, literature, and critical discourse. Kuntowijoyo’s work, in this context, is not merely read as a historical document, but as an interpretation of Indonesia’s present and future.

[Public Relation Magister of Literature, Marsya Kamila]

Semarang, 18 Mei 2025 —

The Rampoe Student Activity Unit from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has successfully secured First Place in the Ratoh Jaroe Competition, part of the Pre-Event series of the Diponegoro Art Competition (DAC) 2025. The event was held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Prof. Soedarto, S.H. Hall, Diponegoro University, Semarang. The competition featured 12 teams from high schools and universities across Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta.

In this event, Rampoe UGM presented a 12-minute Ratoh Jaroe dance performance, involving 17 dancers. The performance captivated the judges with its synchronized movements, strong energy, and vibrant expression of Acehnese cultural heritage, leading Rampoe UGM to achieve first place.

Preparations began on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM WIB at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. The team gathered for a briefing and collective prayer before departing for Semarang by ELF transportation. The group arrived at the homestay at 9:30 PM WIB to rest.

The next morning, Sunday, May 18, the team began preparations at 4:00 AM and departed for the venue at 7:10 AM WIB, arriving at the Prof. Soedarto Hall at 7:30 AM WIB. Upon arrival, the team was directed backstage for preparation and stage blocking sessions.

Rampoe UGM was scheduled to perform fourth, with a performance slot at 9:50 AM WIB. After performing, all participants engaged in icebreaking activities and informal gatherings organized by the committee.

The announcement of winners took place at 1:00 PM WIB, where Rampoe UGM was officially declared the First Place winner of the Ratoh Jaroe competition. This proud achievement is a testament to the team’s dedication and rigorous preparation process.

This victory underscores Rampoe UGM’s continued commitment to preserving and promoting Acehnese cultural arts, particularly the Ratoh Jaroe dance, on a broader stage.

Editor : Public Relation of Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Muhammad Ebid El Hakim

Yogyakarta, 16 May 2025 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is organising a Career Readiness Workshop focused on essential skills for students preparing to enter the workforce. The event will be held in Sugondo Building, Room 127, from 13:00 to 15:00 WIB. This workshop aims to address key aspects of income equality and decent work for all, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Juventino Torres, an experienced career consultant from the United States, will share his expertise on crafting effective resumes and mastering successful interview techniques. With extensive experience helping students and young professionals navigate the complexities of the job market, Torres is an ideal speaker for this event.

Participants can expect an engaging session that includes a presentation, interactive quizzes, and a Q&A session. This format not only enhances learning but also fosters community engagement among students, encouraging them to share experiences and insights.

The importance of education in achieving income equality cannot be overstated. By equipping students with the skills necessary to succeed in their careers, UGM contributes to a fairer job market. The workshop will highlight the role of education as a tool of empowerment, enabling students to access decent employment opportunities.

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, the need for effective resume writing and interview skills is more critical than ever. Torres will provide valuable insights into what employers are looking for, helping students tailor their applications to stand out. This knowledge is crucial for cultivating a generation of jobseekers prepared to meet market demands.

In addition to practical skills, the workshop will also focus on building participants’ confidence. Many students face anxiety when it comes to job interviews, and Torres will share strategies to help them present themselves effectively. This aspect of the workshop aligns with the SDG goal of promoting mental well-being and ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

The Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM remains committed to supporting its students in their career journeys. By hosting events like this workshop, the faculty demonstrates its dedication to nurturing a supportive community that prioritises student development and success.

In conclusion, the Career Readiness Workshop on 16 May 2025 presents an excellent opportunity for students to gain crucial skills for their future careers. With guidance from Juventino Torres, participants will leave the event with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the job market effectively. This event not only contributes to individual growth but also supports the broader goal of income equality and decent work for all.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Bulan Churniati]