Entering the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Major not only makes students active in learning about Javanese literature and language, but also active in various non-academic activities. With the passion of preserving culture and developing skills outside of class, they are involved in organizations outside the faculty, art communities, and social activities. Their participation in these activities not only increases their insight, but also enriches their experience in understanding and applying Javanese cultural values ​​in everyday life.

Even this year, some of them are not only active as ordinary members, but have ‘moved up a level’ to become responsible persons in various strategic positions. Let’s take a peek at the story!

• Luki Henria Pasadhi (Sasa) — General Secretary of PK IMM UGM

Starting from activities in high school, Sasa joined the Muhammadiyah Student Association (IMM) because she was looking for a Muhammadiyah-based organization in the college environment. Previously, Sasa was a member of the Muhammadiyah Youth Association (IPM). With the aim of maintaining what has been started since high school, Sasa went through a long process as a member of the Media and Communication division until this year Sasa served as the general secretary of IMM for the 2024/2025 period. Sasa hopes that IMM can run as it should, smoothly in carrying out work programs, and can contribute to UGM and the community.

• Abimanyu Mahendra (Abi) — President of UKM Swagayugama

In the 2024 Swagayugama Great Deliberation, Abi took the initiative to nominate himself as the president. Through a long democratic process, finally the forum have agreed to elect Abi as the general chairman of Swagayugama UKM for one year ahead. Abi’s reason for joining Swagayugama UKM was to preserve the Javanese culture of Yogyakarta. He felt obliged to do so, especially since he himself came from Yogyakarta. Abi has served as the coordinator of the pedhalangan competency test, as a talent during grand performances, as a dhalang talent, a dance drama talent, and even as a talent to perform at the Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat. Abi’s hope in his management is to improve what is lacking, and maintain what is already good.

• Yanuar Agung Nugroho (Yanuar) — President of UKM UKJGS

Having a background related to arts, Yanuar was enthusiastic about joining the UGM Surakarta Style Javanese Arts Unit (UKJGS). Within a year, he was dynamically involved in many arts activities carried out by UKJGS such as Gladhi Madya, various performances including the Prambanan Ramayana ballet, the New Year’s Eve gamelan parade, and so on. In these activities, Yanuar actively played a role as a talent before finally being trusted to become the general chairman of the 2024/2025 management. Yanuar was chosen from the results of voting at the 2024 UKJGS Great Conference.

• Juneffa Rizka Maharani (June) — Chief Financial Officer of E-Sport UGM

June was chosen as the Chief Financial Officer for E-Sport UGM because the previous chairman saw June as a responsive person. Over the past year, June has participated in several events and has been the manager of two PUBG teams. As the head of finance, her future duties include monitoring the work of the treasurer and sponsorship. June hopes that in the future she can divide her time between E-Sport activities, department associations, or other activities.

• Alma Syahwalani (Alma) — Head of Public Relations Marching Band UGM

Initially in the UGM Marching Band, Alma held a flag instrument where the section was called Color Guard. After a process of approximately one year, Alma was chosen to become the Head of Public Relations at the UGM Marching Band through interviews and also a deliberation system. On December 18, 2024, Alma was inaugurated with other new administrators. During her time in the marching band, Alma diligently attended routine practices and performed a lot inside and outside UGM. The Color Guard Section even received the title of Player of The Year. Alma’s hope for the future is to continue to improve her soft skills and hard skills and also to be able to create wider networks and relationships.

• Audrey Gizella Islamey (Audrey) — Head of Costume Division Swagayugama

Regarding Audrey’s election as Head of Costume Division, there were two influencing factors. First, because of the recommendation from the previous division head. In addition, because the candidate for the head of UKM Swagayugama directly chose Audrey to fill the position of head of costume division. During her time at UKM Swagayugama, Audrey diligently attended routine training, sometimes also involved as a talent in several performances, such as Pentas Kraton, Pagelaran Akbar Swagayugama, and several other incidental performances. In addition, during her time as a member of the costume division, she was involved several times as a person in charge for taking care of the costumes of the talents. Audrey hopes that by joining UKM Swagayugama and studying in the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture study program, both can go hand in hand so that they always foster a sense of love and pride in local culture and ignite the spirit to participate in efforts to preserve culture.

• M. Rafi Nur Fauzy (Rafi) — Head of the Karawitan and Pedalangan Division UKJGS

Based on his competence, performance, and experience during the previous one year of membership, the previous manager recommended Rafi to become the Head of the Karawitan and Pedhalangan Division in the UKJGS management in 2024/2025. During his time at UKJGS, Rafi had been the coordinator of routine pedhalangan training, the coordinator of pedhalangan Gladhi Madya , the event committee at Gladhi Purwa, the coordinator of karawitan Ambal Warsa  UKJGS, the coordinator of Ramayana Ballet Prambanan karawitan, and others. Rafi hopes to be able to improve his academic achievements for this semester and in the future. And for UKJGS, Rafi hopes to be able to maintain and improve his quality and good name both inside and outside the university.

• M. Rizki Saputro (Rizki) — Head of Facilities and Infrastructure Division UKJGS

Rizki became the Head of the Facilities Division because he was appointed by the president of UKJGS. His goal in accepting the mandate was to take the opportunity to learn to become a division head in the organization. During his time at UKJGS, Rizki actively participated in various committees, including Gladhi Madya equipment coordinator, Gladhi Purwa security staff, Ambal Warsa equipment staff, Ramayana equipment staff, and is currently the Ramayana equipment coordinator. In addition, Rizki is also a talent at Gladhi Madya and the Faculty of Philosophy Karawitan Festival as a kenong player. Rizki’s hope for UKJGS in the future is that it will continue to develop and innovate in preserving Javanese culture.

• Fega Achillea Maydena (Fega) — General Secretary of Unit Selam UGM

Starting from her interest in the underwater world, Fega decided to register for the UGM Diving Society. During the training period and after being inaugurated as an official member, Fega routinely participated in various agendas held by the UGM Diving Society. So that at the end of 2024, Fega won the title of Member of The Year as a form of appreciation for her active participation. In the future, Fega hopes to continue to be able to balance academic and non-academic life, and continue to develop herself into a more skilled person.

From the writing above, we can conclude that being a student of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture does not prevent us from developing our potential in other fields. Some are in the arts, sports, and even religion. By knowing these stories, it is hoped that readers will also have the spirit to continue to develop themselves and fly high in the fields they are engaged in.

[Public Relation Javanese Literature FIB UGM, Fega Achillea Maydena]

Yogyakarta, 6/2/2025 – An innovative movement in the world of education is back through the implementation of the final exam for the ‘Tata Cara‘ course in the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture study program at Universitas Gadjah Mada. This exam is not only an academic assessment event, but also aims to train students’ observation skills and strengthen their connection with local culture. With a learning method based on direct experience, students are invited to explore, understand, and document the traditions of the surrounding community as part of preserving cultural heritage.

In this final exam, students were asked to form groups and plan a reportation video of events and cultural products in the area around their homes. In approximately one month, the student groups successfully produced diverse and interesting outputs. Among them were those that discussed traditional herbal drinks, various forms of offerings, procedures for panggih manten, jathilan, and so on.

Mayla (class of 2023) said that she was very happy because this reportation assignment gave students more opportunities to learn more about related arts. She said that this was a completely different experience than just watching. Rachel (class of 2023) added that it was fun because she could watch the panggih procession live. There was a prayer for the bride and groom to be able to build a household. Then there was also Nadiffa (class of 2023) who stated that this activity was fun and taught many lessons about mutual tolerance.

This step is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially point 4 on Quality Education, which emphasizes relevant and skills-based learning. In addition, this exam also contributes to point 11, namely Sustainable Cities and Communities, by maintaining and appreciating cultural diversity in local communities. Not only that, the involvement of students in direct interaction with the community reflects the implementation of point 17, Partnerships for The Goals, through collaboration between educational institutions and local communities.

This innovative approach is expected to strengthen the awareness of the younger generation towards the richness of Indonesian culture while honing their observation skills in understanding social phenomena around them.

Bibliography

Ana Safitri. (14 Desember 2024). “Aja Waton Payu” Video Dokumenter Mata Kuliah Tata Cara & Pranatacara | UGM | Kelompok 7. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/doC4jVOlluY?si=KdF8wiuBkeBzyMjs

Asmarawijaya. (13 Desember 2024). KEBUDAYAAN DALAM HARMONI PERNIKAHAN || RANGKAIAN TATACARA PERNIKAHAN GAYA SURAKARTA. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/ETIavdVdAh8?si=u-aoJLJdEje8Uwr2

Fifi. (14 Desember 2024). “Sabaya Mukti, Sabaya Pati” – Upacara Panggih Manten Gaya Surakarta di Magelang. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/LlVSazdFAPo?si=WnU3AF8NuSvqvuGw

Rizki Saputro. (13 Desember 2024). Sajen “Wujud Doa Tanpa Kata”. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/IILkq0dEGPc?si=3ol8mQkLMJyLNr91

[Bachelor Javanese Literature UGM, Fega Achillea Maydena]

Yogyakarta, 28/1/2025 – As the host of Temu Budaya Nusantara (TBN) XXX Imbasadi, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) remains serious in the competition that is part of the big series. The earnestness of the UGM delegation, represented by ten students of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program, paid off with championships in three branches of the competition, including the following:

1. 1st place in the National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTIN) – Haryo Untoro, Daffa Pharaja Mustofa, and Miktahul Ulumudin

The work competed in LKTIN has the title Implementation of Asthabrata Concept as the Foundation of Generation Z Life. This study raises the material object in the form of Asthabrata’s leadership concept in Yasadipura I’s Serat Rama, which turns out to be relevant and can be a life guide for generation Z.

2. 1st place in Batik Design Competition – Meifira Arini Pitaloka

The batik designed by Meifira Arini Pitaloka presents a butterfly with various batik motifs on its wings, as well as other supporting motifs. From her work, there is an in-depth philosophy of Indonesian culture as the identity of the people of the archipelago, with its various forms, patterns, and philosophies, and continues to live and develop throughout the ages.

3.     3rd Place in Storytelling Competition – Ghibran Arsha Daffa’ Musaffa’

Ghibran Arsha Daffa’ Musaffa’ presented a story entitled Nyai Rangga Wati. The story focuses on the quarrel between a couple, Joko and Wati, in Malioboro. During the argument, Joko did not want Wati to continue her desire to become a Jathilan player, which he considered an ancient and backward art. The argument ended with their relationship breaking down. In the end, Wati continued to pursue her dream as a Jathilan dancer and was dubbed by the community as Nyai Rangga Wati.

Imbasadi’s XXXth Nusantara Cultural Gathering took place over five days, from November 11-15, 2024. The event themed Manggala Gajah Mada: Ancala Raksi Budaya ‘Pioneer Gajah Mada: Bagai Gunung Pengharum Budaya’ took place with a variety of events, such as various competitions, batik, tilik UGM, until the peak night in the form of awarding champions, wayang kulit performance of the Gajah Mada Kridha play, and cultural tours to Pura Pakualaman.

There are seven (7) competitions held, namely cultural performances, National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTIN), fairy tale competition, batik design competition, Tiktok archipelago competition, documentary film competition, and essay competition.

The delegates who participated in the event consisted of the 3 youngest batches, from the batch of 2022 there was Haryo Untoro, then from the batch of 2023 represented by Meifira Arini Pitaloka and Nisrina Almasevi, while the batch of 2024 was represented by Dhaffa Pharaja Mustofa, Ghibran Arsha Daffa’ Musaffa’, Harvesto Qodam Sahaja, Miktahul Ulumudin, Nurcholish Ramadhan, Noviyanti Alfitri, and Shabrina Fitra Azzahra.

With the implementation of the XXXth National Cultural Meeting, it is hoped that it can generate enthusiasm for students to continue to appreciate, explore, preserve, and develop traditional and cultural heritage in Indonesia. The existence of the TBN-XXX can also be a place to strengthen the relationship of students of regional language and literature study programs throughout Indonesia, and unite the spirit to realize the goals of sustainable development for the advancement of national civilization. 

Our gratitude goes to all parties who participated in supporting and organizing this activity. Thank you also to all students majoring in regional literature throughout Indonesia who have attended and tried together to preserve and enliven the diversity of Indonesia in full harmony. Hopefully in the future, Imbasadi can present real efforts in cultural preservation and spread benefits to the people of Indonesia. 

Indonesia is diverse, Imbasadi unites

[Public Relation Javanese Literature FIB UGM, Haryo Untoro]

Yogyakarta, 16/1/2025 – TIAS 2024 students shopped at Kranggan Market in a series of Indonesian language learning. The students practiced bargaining with fruit vendors in Indonesian. In doing this activity, students were accompanied by teachers and part-time students. By bargaining, students are expected to train their focus in listening and speaking Indonesian.

This out-of-class learning activity also gave TIAS students a new experience. Previously, the TIAS students had never been to a traditional market. One of the TIAS students expressed her amazement at traditional markets because she found the prices in traditional markets cheaper than in supermarkets. The student also said that she would find it easier to adopt a healthy lifestyle because of the affordable price of fruit. This activity provides long-term benefits for TIAS students considering that these students will study at UGM for several years to pursue bachelor/master/doctoral degrees. In addition, this activity was not only welcomed enthusiastically by TIAS students, but also fruit vendors. The vendors were entertained and amazed by the TIAS students’ ability to bargain. In addition, the students did not only buy fruit, but also traditional snacks. The students did not hesitate to taste traditional culinary in Kranggan Market, such as jenang, fried foods, and so on.

This out-of-class learning shows that language learning is not only limited in the classroom, but also outside the classroom considering that students will interact directly with the community during their stay in Indonesia. This activity is expected to build the confidence of TIAS students in dialoguing with friends, lecturers, and the community in Indonesian.

[Public Relation INCULS, Decika Syahda Maharani translated by Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 23/1/2025 – The Department of Cultural Anthropology Universitas Gadjah Mada together with the Resilience Development Initiative Urban Refugee Research Group (RDI UREF) has successfully organized a series of activities for the 20th International Conference of the International Association for the Study of Forced Migration (IASFM). This prestigious conference was held for three days, from Tuesday, January 21, 2025 to Thursday, January 23, 2025.

The conference invites researchers and individuals with lived experience of (forced) migration, policy makers, and practitioners working with (forced) migrants to build a space for reflection, knowledge exchange, and discussion around forced displacement and urban management in the spirit of GCM, GCR, and NUA to improve urban planning and response to forced displacement and to strengthen the network of academics, practitioners, and decision-makers under IASFM to share knowledge and experiences on international forced displacement in urban contexts and to screen issues of concern for future collaborative research, especially in the context of the Asia Pacific Region.

The opening ceremony took place on the first day on the second floor of Grha Sabha Pramana Building which began with remarks from the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada, Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K)., Ph.D., who also warmly welcomed the arrival of participants who came from all over the world. The next remarks were also delivered by the Director of Resilience Development Initiative Urban Refugee Research Group (RDI UREF), Dr. Elisabeth Rianawati, IASFM President, Dr. Veronica Fynn Bruey, and IASFM 20 Executive Chair, Dr. Akino Tahir and Dr. Realisa Darathea Masardi.

On the first day, there was also a presentation on international migration and forced displacement in the Southeast Asian region by the keynote speaker, Prof. Dr. Tri Nuke Pudjiastuti, M.A., professor of national security research and strategic issues in Indonesia. Then, a plenary session related to the “Global Agenda for International Migration” delivered by Prof. Ranabir Samaddar, Dr. Sripapha Petcharamesree, and Prof. Susan Banki also added to the insight of the participants who attended. In addition, various main programs were also held in the classroom of Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The next keynote speaker, Prof. Dr. Stephen Cairns, a professor from Monash University Indonesia who specializes in urban and architectural studies, also presented on urban perspectives on forced displacement on the second day. In addition, there was also a plenary session on “(Re)conception of Urban Displacement and the Right to the City” delivered by Prof. Wiwandari Handayani, Marco Kusumawijaya, and Dr. Tular Sudarmadi, M.A. Both agendas were held in the Auditorium Room on the 7th floor of Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada.

On the third day, the last plenary session related to “Knowledge Production on Urban Displacement” was delivered by Prof. Itty Abraham, Dr. Silke Lange, and Baqir Bayani in the 7th floor Auditorium Room of Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada. Then, in the same room, the second Ignite State agenda was also held which discussed “Refugee-Led Community Impact: Youth Stage”. In addition, various main programs were also held in the classroom of Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada as on the first and second days.

By inviting researchers and individuals with experience in the field of forced migration, policy-making, and practitioners, the conference is expected to strengthen networks between academics, practitioners, and decision-makers, especially in the context of the Asia Pacific region.

[Public Relation of Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Muhammad Ebid El Hakim]