The Japanese Student Association (HIMAJE) of the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held Kizuna Camp 2026 on 20–21 June 2026 at Villa Joglo Tanjung, Kalasan, Yogyakarta. The internal event, attended by HIMAJE members from different academic years, aimed to strengthen relationships among students, foster solidarity, and cultivate a stronger sense of family and togetherness within the organization.

Throughout the two-day program, participants took part in a variety of activities designed to enhance teamwork, communication, and coordination in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The program included games, group discussions, morning exercise, outbound activities, and a shared dinner. The event was also attended by lecturers from the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program, who had the opportunity to interact with students in an informal setting, further strengthening the relationship between lecturers and students beyond the classroom.

Through Kizuna Camp 2026, HIMAJE UGM hopes to foster a more harmonious, active, and united student organization. In addition to providing an opportunity for members to get to know one another better and share organizational experiences, the program is expected to strengthen students’ sense of belonging to HIMAJE and support the sustainability of its future programs.

Author: Prodi Bahasa dan Kebudayaan Jepang

Yogyakarta — Ramayda Akmal, an author and lecturer at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), invited the public to revisit the ideas of Ariel Heryanto, Professor Emeritus at Monash University, during a discussion titled Ramayda Akmal Reads Ariel Heryanto, held at the Soegondo Auditorium, 7th Floor of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM, on Monday (June 29), from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Moderated by Giandra Febrian, a graduate student in UGM’s Master’s Program in Literature, the event featured Ariel Heryanto as the keynote speaker. The discussion centered on two of his books, Huruf demi Huruf (Letter by Letter) and Nasib Publik dalam Republik (The Fate of the Public in the Republic), inviting participants to explore contemporary social, political, and cultural issues in Indonesia through these works.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Aprinus Salam, Head of UGM’s Master’s Program in Literature, reflected on his long intellectual journey with Ariel Heryanto. He also shared several archival photographs documenting their years of friendship, offering both a nostalgic recollection and a tribute to Ariel’s contributions to Indonesian scholarship.

Opening her presentation, Ramayda described Huruf demi Huruf as a collection of essays that encapsulates many of the most pressing issues confronting contemporary Indonesia. According to her, Ariel’s writings do more than address significant social and political questions—they encourage readers to reexamine assumptions that are often taken for granted. These include the notion of elections as a “democratic celebration,” the idea of the middle class, interpretations of the May 1998 mass rapes as a language of power rather than merely racial violence, and the extent to which Indonesia’s post-independence social structure continues to reflect the colonial legacy of the Dutch East Indies.

Ramayda also highlighted Ariel Heryanto’s distinctive intellectual approach, which does not rely exclusively on Western theoretical frameworks. Instead, many of his essays seek to understand Asian societies through the experiences, histories, knowledge, and intellectual traditions produced by fellow Asian societies—an approach often referred to as South–South knowledge exchange. In her reading, Ariel consistently situates Indonesian culture within its broader relationships with other Asian societies.

She further argued that one of Ariel’s greatest strengths lies in his ability to examine the increasingly complex relationship between popular culture, capitalism, and power. According to Ramayda, the rise of digital media has created various forms of alternative cultural production that appear open and inclusive while remaining embedded within capitalist structures.

“What makes Mas Ariel’s writings enduring is that they continue to invite new questions as the examples themselves become increasingly complex. Earlier, we discussed whether alternative literature belongs to pop culture or whether it should be understood as an alternative product. It is heavily facilitated by highly capitalist media. Although the space is remarkably diverse and inclusive—anyone can write and anyone can read—you still have to pay for the product. This makes the relationship between capitalism, popular culture, political power, and dominant forces even more complex,” Ramayda explained.

During the discussion, Ramayda also shared her personal appreciation for the essay “Huruf demi Huruf,” the title essay of the book. She described it as one of Ariel’s most memorable works because it begins with deeply personal childhood experiences before expanding into a broader reflection on Indonesia’s contemporary condition.

Meanwhile, Ariel Heryanto reflected on the question that has motivated his writing since around 1976. He explained that he has long been preoccupied with understanding why profound social inequality can persist within societies that nevertheless appear relatively stable, peaceful, and seemingly free of major upheaval.

The discussion became particularly lively when an audience member asked whether Indonesia might face national disintegration, referring to the title of Ariel’s book Nasib Publik dalam Republik. Responding to the question, Ariel argued that capitalism remains the most powerful force shaping the modern nation-state.

“In my view, the greatest force in the world today is capitalism—not radicalism, not separatism. Those forces certainly exist, but none surpasses capitalism. As long as a state operates within a capitalist system, it will endure—not only domestically but also internationally. In other words, nationalism is itself a product of, and serves the interests of, capitalism. The fate of a nation ultimately depends on whether it is constituted through a capitalist system,” Ariel said.

Through this discussion, the organizers hoped that both longtime readers and newcomers to Ariel Heryanto’s work would see the forum as an opportunity to critically engage with Indonesia’s contemporary challenges through the perspectives of literature, culture, and the social sciences.

The event concluded with a book-signing session by Ariel Heryanto. Many participants took the opportunity to have their books signed, take photographs, and engage in informal conversations with Ariel about the ideas discussed during the event. Their enthusiasm reflected the enduring interest in Ariel Heryanto’s works and intellectual contributions, which continue to offer relevant perspectives for understanding Indonesia’s contemporary social, political, and cultural issues.

Author: Khotibul Imam

 Five students from the Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, participated in the 2026 Youth Peace & Reunification Golden Bell Quiz (2026 청소년 평화통일 골든벨 대회) organized by the Peace Unification Advisory Council (PUAC) at Jakarta International Korean School (JIKS), Jakarta.

The competition attracted participants from various educational institutions. Beyond assessing Korean language proficiency, the event provided a valuable opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of Korean history, culture, and issues surrounding peace and reunification on the Korean Peninsula.

The event commenced with welcoming remarks from the organizers and school representatives, followed by the singing of the Korean national anthem, an opening performance, and several competition rounds for both Korean and Indonesian participants. After preliminary rounds, second-chance rounds, and final rounds, the event concluded with the announcement of winners, a networking session between Indonesian and Korean participants, closing performances, and an award ceremony.

In this competition, Claudia Keishia Piji Swastika, 1st year student, received the Encouragement Award (장려상, 4th Winner). Meanwhile, Irene Xaviera Lovryna, 2nd year student, achieved the Excellence Award (최우수상, 2nd Winner). These accomplishments reflect the students’ dedication and hard work in developing their Korean language proficiency while expanding their understanding of international issues.

Claudia expressed her gratitude for the achievement:

“This was a truly memorable experience, especially because it was my first time participating in an in-person Korean language competition. Although I initially lacked confidence, I am very grateful to have made it into the top four out of approximately 130 participants. This experience has motivated me to continue learning and improving. I would like to thank the Study Program, Professor Alfi, and my family for their trust, support, and encouragement.”

Similarly, Irene shared her appreciation for the opportunity:

“I am very grateful for the valuable opportunity to represent UGM for the first time in this year’s Golden Bell competition. Although I was initially quite pessimistic about being able to memorize all the materials, by God’s grace, finishing in the Top 2 was something I had never imagined. I would like to thank the Study Program, Professor Alfi for trusting me to participate, my fellow participants, as well as the committee members and JIKS teachers who were incredibly supportive. I am proud to have been part of this experience. All the effort, time, and dedication invested throughout the journey were truly rewarded through this competition. I hope this experience will serve as motivation and a valuable lesson for my future endeavors. 그리고, 내년에도 꼭 다시 도전하고 싶습니다. 정말 감사했습니다!”

The participation and achievements of the Korean Language and Culture Study Program students in this competition demonstrate the program’s commitment to supporting academic excellence, foreign language proficiency, and cross-cultural communication skills. Through activities such as this, students not only gain valuable competitive experience but also have opportunities to build networks and strengthen intercultural understanding.

[Eunike Serafia N.S]

The Faculty of Cultural Studies at Gadjah Mada University conducted an in-person on-site evaluation for the accreditation of Program Studi Magister Kajian Budaya Timur Tengah (MKBTT), organized by the Badan Akreditasi Nasional Perguruan Tinggi (BAN-PT), on Friday, June 12 2026. The event was attended by the BAN-PT Assessment Team, the University’s Quality and Reputation Assurance Unit, the Dean and Vice Deans of the Faculty of Cultural Studies, the Chair of the Intercultural Studies Department, the Secretary of the Intercultural Studies Department, the Chair of the MKBTT Program, the MKBTT Program Accreditation Team, the Faculty of Cultural Studieses academic staff, and the program administrators.

Held in Room 709 of the Soegondo Building, the series of events was opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Studies, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si. He welcomed the BAN-PT Assessment Team to the Faculty of Cultural Sciences via an online broadcast. “We welcome you with open arms, and we also welcome all feedback and suggestions for future improvements,” he said.

The Head of the UGM Quality and Reputation Assurance Unit, Prof. Dr. Indra Wijaya Kusuma, M.B.A., also expressed his hope that all study programs at UGM, particularly those in the Faculty of Humanities (FIB), would achieve “excellent” accreditation. “I am confident that the study programs at the Faculty of Cultural Studies already meet UGM’s standards and have fully implemented their Internal Quality Assurance System (SPMI), so hopefully this will help ensure the completeness of data and other requirements needed for accreditation,” he said.

The event continued with opening remarks and guidance from BAN-PT assessor Dr. H. Adi Suryadi, M.A. He explained that the vision serving as the foundation for assessing quality is realized through the Tri Dharma. It is hoped that this has been effectively implemented through the governance framework already in place at the Faculty of Cultural Studies.

According to guidance from assessor Deasy Silvya Sari, Dr. S.IP., M.Si., the assessment process will be divided into two sessions: a qualitative assessment and a quantitative assessment. The facility tour will take place in the afternoon. “We hope the process will go smoothly,” she concluded.

[Humas FIB, Maylafaizza Nafisha Zifa]

Yogyakarta, June 9, 2026 – Students from the Master’s Program in Literature and the Undergraduate Program in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture organized a manuscript exhibition titled Pusaka Kata (“Heritage of Words”) at the first-floor lobby of Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), on Tuesday (June 9). Held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the exhibition served as a platform for academic collaboration, bringing together the fields of philology, Javanese manuscript studies, and codicology in an effort to preserve and revitalize the manuscript heritage of the Indonesian archipelago.

The exhibition involved graduate students from the Philology and Javanese Manuscript Studies classes, as well as undergraduate students from the Codicology class of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Program. The event was supervised by Prof. Dr. Sangidu, M.Hum., Dr. Arsanti Wulandari, S.S., M.Hum., and Zakariya Pamuji Aminullah, S.S., M.A.

Under the theme Pusaka Kata, the exhibition was inspired by the awareness that Nusantara manuscripts constitute invaluable intellectual and cultural heritage. These manuscripts preserve ancestral knowledge systems covering various aspects of life, including education, medicine, religious practices, and literature. However, beyond the threat of physical deterioration due to age, these manuscripts also face a growing challenge: the widening gap between younger generations and the knowledge contained within them.

The name Pusaka Kata was chosen to emphasize the significance of manuscripts as an intergenerational legacy. In Javanese tradition, pusaka refers not merely to an inherited object but to a trust passed down through generations, carrying values, identity, and responsibility. Meanwhile, kata (“words”) represents the medium through which knowledge has been preserved and transmitted from ancestors to future generations.

Interpreting Knowledge Preserved in Manuscripts

One of the highlights from the Philology class was a Malay-Islamic manuscript titled Kitab Jimat, Tangkal, dan Obat-obatan (Book of Talismans, Protective Charms, and Medicines). Digitized by the British Library through the Endangered Archives Programme (EAP), the manuscript contains knowledge related to self-protection, healing practices, and environmental safeguarding through prayers, Qur’anic verses, magical diagrams (rajah), and herbal remedies.

Fajar Nur Zaima explained that one of the most prominent sections of the manuscript discusses the virtues of Qur’anic verses, particularly the recitation of the basmalah. According to him, the manuscript presents the basmalah not merely as an opening formula but also as a source of blessings, protection, and safety in various aspects of life.

Another featured object was the section on talismans contained in Serat Primbon, a manuscript from the collection of the National Library of Indonesia, catalog number NB 973. This section includes at least twenty-nine types of talismans serving different purposes, ranging from attracting affection and maintaining health to ensuring safety and warding off misfortune.

Giandra Febriyan Haidar explained that talismanic texts can be understood as representations of how Javanese society perceived the relationship between humans, nature, and forces beyond everyday rationality. He cited a love talisman described in the manuscript as a means of gaining affection and social acceptance. In this context, he argued, talismans should not be viewed merely as magical objects but as symbols of human aspirations for harmonious social relationships.

Reading Manuscript Histories Through Physical Form and Aesthetics

The Javanese Manuscript Studies class presented research on the physical and aesthetic aspects of Javanese manuscripts. One exhibition item focused on a manuscript written in Javanese script, currently preserved in the Department of Nusantara Literature Library under the code 899.047.

Through this study, visitors were invited to understand manuscripts not only as textual repositories but also as cultural artifacts that document copying practices, literary traditions, and histories of ownership and transmission. Elements such as paper type, binding structure, script, and physical damage provide valuable information about a manuscript’s journey through time.

The class also showcased a study of manuscript illumination titled Wêdana Gapura Rênggan. The manuscript contains several texts, including Aji Pamasa, Mihradipun Jêng Nabi, Rajah Kalacakra, Jumbuhing Panembah, and Lêlampahanipun Raden Sahid.

Affan Akbar explained that manuscript illuminations serve not only as decorative elements but also as important sources of information regarding manuscript production processes. Observations of unfinished sketches and coloring revealed that the text had been written before the ornamental designs were added. Such findings provide insights into the stages undertaken by manuscript scribes in producing complete handwritten works.

Codicology and Creative Approaches to Manuscript Preservation

Meanwhile, the Codicology class introduced visitors to the study of manuscripts from a material perspective. Codicology examines manuscripts as physical objects, including their writing materials, binding techniques, ornaments, layouts, and patterns of damage that record traces of their historical use.

In addition to presenting research findings, students displayed practical projects such as manuscript covers, storage boxes, and hand-bound books accompanied by interpretive narratives.

One work that attracted particular attention was created by Arfia Kholifatul, who adopted the Javanese wayang character Semar as the central theme of her bookbinding and cover design. Through imagery inspired by shadow puppetry and botanical motifs, the work interpreted Javanese philosophical values such as urip iku urup—the belief that life should bring benefits to others. The upward-growing leaves and vines symbolized the continuous pursuit of truth and the sustainability of life.

Through the collaboration of these three academic fields, the Pusaka Kata Exhibition offered a comprehensive perspective on manuscripts as living cultural heritage. Rather than being regarded merely as historical artifacts preserved in archives, manuscripts were presented as enduring sources of knowledge that can continue to be read, understood, and reinterpreted by contemporary generations.

Author: Khotibul Umam