Yogyakarta, October 9th, 2025 – Students from the Arabic Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), are actively participating in the Al-Istiqama International Arabic Public Speaking Competition 2025, an international Arabic speech contest organized by the Omani Research and Studies Centre in collaboration with Istiqama Academy and the Arabic Debate Club. This prestigious event, held under the theme of nurturing eloquence, leadership, and global understanding, gathers high school and university students from around the world to showcase their Arabic communication skills.

The competition features two stages: the online qualifying round, where participants submit a 3–5 minute speech video by October 10, 2025, and the semi-final and final rounds, which will take place on November 7, 2025, at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Contestants will address one of several themes, such as “Education and Innovation as Our Path to Leadership” and “The Role of Youth in Building a Peaceful Future.” Winners will receive total prizes amounting to RM 20,000 (approximately USD 4,700).

The Arabic Study Program at UGM provides full support for its students joining this competition. The department organizes intensive coaching sessions, helps students record and edit their competition videos, and provides academic and technical assistance to ensure the best possible preparation. This initiative reflects the program’s dedication to encouraging students to hone their public speaking, linguistic, and intercultural communication skills on the international stage.

Through this participation, UGM continues to foster an environment that empowers students to represent Indonesia in global academic and cultural arenas while embodying the values of confidence, eloquence, and collaboration. The Arabic Study Program’s support for this event also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—by promoting global educational collaboration and student empowerment through language and culture.

[Arabic Literature, Muhammad Ardiansyah]

Banjarmasin, October 5, 2025 — Three students from the Arabic Literature Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada, proudly represented UGM as delegates in the 18th National University Qur’an Recitation Competition (MTQMN XVIII), held at Lambung Mangkurat University, Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan.

The delegates were Muhammad Candra Solihin (Arabic Literature, Class of 2023, Contemporary Calligraphy Male category), Pandhita Hapsari (Arabic Literature, Class of 2023, Qur’anic Debate in Arabic), and Hasifa Zara (Arabic Literature, Class of 2024, Qur’anic Debate in Arabic). In addition, Muhammad Shofyyulloh (Cultural Anthropology 2023) as an official, also accompanied the group from UGM.

Before advancing to the national stage, the three students had to undergo a series of rigorous selection processes. These included internal selection at UGM, followed by an online pre-national selection involving hundreds of students from various universities across Indonesia, before finally being chosen as UGM’s official representatives.

The 18th MTQMN brought together around 1,500 students from universities throughout Indonesia, with the competition running over five days. The event featured an opening ceremony, preliminary rounds, final rounds, and a closing ceremony.

This prestigious competition aims to strengthen students’ Qur’anic character, nurturing a generation with noble character, academic excellence, and the ability to contribute to the nation.

UGM provided full support for its delegates, including regular training, academic guidance, and full facilitation of competition needs. Such support reflects the university’s commitment to fostering achievements while upholding UGM’s reputation on the national stage.

The participation of Arabic Literature students in categories such as Qur’anic debate in Arabic highlights the strong relevance between academic learning and competition. It not only sharpens language mastery but also broadens networks and strengthens the tradition of Islamic scholarship on campus.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, September 17, 2025 — The premiere of Unexpected Peace was held on Wednesday (Sept. 17, 2025), bringing together several prominent figures who emphasized the importance of viewing conflicts through a humanitarian lens rather than merely political or territorial ones.

In the forum, Michael and Johnathan opened the discussion by examining the Israel-Palestine conflict as a concrete example of the complexities of peace. They highlighted the harsh realities of life in Gaza, where people are often trapped in cycles of dehumanization. “Individuals may face limitations in confronting large-scale violence, yet each person still carries the responsibility to speak the truth,” said Michael.

Johnathan added that nonviolent approaches have proven more effective in resolving conflicts. He referred to stories presented in the film and emphasized that religion can serve as a spiritual guide in building peace.

Meanwhile, academic Achmad Munjid highlighted the importance of narrative in delivering moral messages. According to him, stories are easier for society to grasp as reflections of humanitarian values. He also stressed that conflicts arise from multiple factors, ranging from economic and political to cultural. “Genocide is the most extreme form of dehumanization, and it remains a global threat to this day,” he asserted.

The Q&A session deepened the discussion on religion, media, and the act of forgiveness. Johnathan cited the Amish community as an example, noting how they always choose to forgive first before considering other consequences. Michael emphasized that forgiveness can come from anywhere, while Munjid described it as “a radical act that seems almost impossible,” yet precisely what makes it meaningful.

Questions about the conditions required for peace were answered by Paulus, who emphasized the importance of respecting differences. According to him, authenticity and honesty are key to building trust. Yanni added that conflict resolution requires active engagement, the pursuit of shared goals, and agreements that are both clear and respected.

The event concluded with the understanding that peace is not something achieved instantly, but rather a long journey that demands courage, collective participation, and a commitment to dismantle stereotypes. Respecting differences and having the courage to forgive were highlighted as the main foundations of reconciliation.

The premiere of Unexpected Peace successfully demonstrated that viewing conflict through a humanitarian lens is a vital first step toward a more peaceful world. Narratives, real-life experiences, and open dialogue are believed to be powerful tools in fostering collective awareness of the importance of peace.

[Public Relation of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, September 26, 2025 – The Archaeology Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), held the “UGM Archaeology Talkshow X Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.” The event took place in a hybrid format—offline at Soegondo Building, 7th floor (Room 709), and online via Zoom Meeting—featuring the overarching theme of maritime archaeology and Underwater Cultural Heritage (BMKT).

The talkshow presented three speakers from different fields. The first was Widya Nayati, M.A., Ph.D., from the Department of Archaeology UGM, who delivered a presentation titled “Ports: Centers of Commodity Exchange or Centers of Cultural Exchange?” highlighting the role of ports throughout history and their significance in cultural interactions. Next, Frista Yorhanita, S.Si., M.Si., Director of Marine Resources at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, discussed “BMKT: Marine Resources in Policy Perspective”, emphasizing the importance of sustainable marine resource governance. Meanwhile, from the Faculty of Law UGM, Dr. Jur. Any Andjarwati, S.H., M. Jur., presented “Legal Studies on BMKT”, addressing regulatory aspects and legal protection in the utilization of BMKT.

Following the presentations, the event continued with an interactive discussion session that allowed participants to deepen their insights on maritime archaeology, policy perspectives, and legal regulations supporting the preservation of BMKT. The talkshow concluded with a group photo session.

This activity not only served as an academic platform that brought together perspectives from archaeology, marine sciences, and law, but also underscored the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in preserving Indonesia’s maritime heritage.

In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the event supported SDG 14: Life Below Water and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by emphasizing the preservation of maritime heritage alongside the sustainable use of marine resources. In addition, the talkshow also contributed to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions through the strengthening of transparent legal regulations that prioritize public interests.

[Public Relation of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, September 11, 2025 – Students of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), took part in an Interfaith Prayer event held at UGM Religious Facilities, Jalan Podocarpus I, Sendowo, Sleman. Carrying the theme “Ruwat Bumi: Manunggaling Manah Kagem Rahayuning Nagari” (Purifying the Earth: Uniting Hearts for the Prosperity of the Nation), the event became a space of togetherness to pray for peace in Indonesia amidst a tense social and political climate.

The event was attended by interfaith leaders: Romo Prasetyo representing Hinduism, Reverend Risang Anggoro Elliarso representing Christianity, Romo Pasadhi Lan Pasani representing Buddhism, and Joko Purwono representing Islam. Each took turns leading the prayers in solemnity, accompanied by the symbolic lighting of candles by the participants.

The program began with opening remarks from the committee, followed by joint prayers, a discussion session (sarasehan), and a communal meal in a warm and friendly atmosphere. In addition to the UGM academic community, the event also involved local residents and representatives from the Yogyakarta Palace (Kraton).

From FIB UGM, two students—Bernadetta Rahayuning Tyas (Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture 2023) and I Putu Purnama Wisnu Aji (History 2023)—served as part of the Logistics Division, ensuring the smooth running of technical needs, from venue arrangements and sound system setup to other logistical preparations.

Bernadetta shared her positive impression of joining the event:

“It was a pleasant experience to take part in this activity, as I could interact with friends from different faiths. In response to the current tense situation, it is not only about voicing concerns through stories on social media but also through shared prayers. Our differences in faith do not prevent us from praying for and strengthening one another. My hope is that there will be no more bloodshed, and that the government will wisely use its authority by enacting policies that truly serve the people’s welfare,” she expressed.

This event stemmed from concerns over national incidents in late August 2025, when student demonstrations in Jakarta and Yogyakarta ended in violence, casualties, and damage to public facilities. The interfaith prayer gathering at UGM was initiated as an effort to unite hearts in maintaining peace, fostering solidarity, and reminding the government of its role as a servant of the people.

Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this activity reflects a commitment to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Through interfaith prayer, UGM’s academic community and the public demonstrate tangible efforts to strengthen peace, prevent conflict, and nurture inclusive dialogue spaces amidst diversity.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]