Yogyakarta, May 18, 2025 — Students of the Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada once again achieved outstanding success at the King Sejong Institute (KSI) Yogyakarta 2025 Speech and Writing Competition. The event was held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, and was attended by active KSI students, KSI alumni, as well as students of the Korean Language and Culture Study Program.

In this competition, two students of the Korean Language and Culture Study Program succeeded in achieving remarkable accomplishments. Adzini Nurul Fatima Juliani won 1st Place in the Writing category, while Adhyva Kaana Taqqiyaa won 3rd Place in the Speaking category. These achievements reflect the students’ comprehensive Korean language skills, both oral and written, and demonstrate the results of continuous learning within the study program.

One of the winners, Adzini, shared her enthusiasm for participating in the competition. “Since the beginning, I had been looking forward to KSI’s competition, so when the opportunity came, I immediately joined both the writing and speaking contests. I personally feel more confident in writing because it is my hobby, especially as the theme was about ‘dreams,’ which felt very close to me. The words just flowed naturally, as if I was writing in my diary. In my piece, I portrayed dreams through the metaphor ‘마음속에 있는 불빛이’ (the light inside the heart) with an emotional nuance to give it more depth. I’m so happy that my message was delivered and I was selected as the 1st place winner. This competition has been a valuable experience to test my abilities. I hope KSI continues to hold such events, and that more participants will join in the future. Thank you! KSI Yogyakarta 화이팅!”

Meanwhile, Adhyva, who participated in the speaking category, also shared her experience. “처음으로 참가한 대회라 정말 떨리기도 하고 설레기도 했어요. 전체적으로 너무 즐거웠고, 한국어문화학과 학생으로서 정말 값진 경험이었어요.” (“This was the first competition I’ve participated in, so I felt both nervous and excited. Overall, it was very enjoyable, and as a student of the Korean Language and Culture Program, it was truly a valuable experience.”)

The students’ participation in this event not only serves as a platform for developing Korean language proficiency but also contributes to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), through strengthening inter-institutional collaboration and enhancing the quality of globally-oriented education

[Public Relation of Korean Language and Culture, Sherina Azmi]

Yogyakarta, May 24, 2025 – In the spirit of promoting fitness, team spirit, and athletic potential among students, the Arabic Study Program Student Association (IKMASA) of Universitas Gadjah Mada launched its first basketball training session called Basket Asik IKMASA on Saturday morning, May 24, 2025, at the Faculty of Psychology Basketball Court, UGM.

Starting at 7:00 AM, the session was free of charge and open to all Arabic Study Program students from any year. Participants didn’t come alone—friends, family members, and partners were also welcome, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere on the court.

While the activity was held in a casual and cheerful tone, it also served as an initial step toward discovering promising basketball talent who could represent IKMASA in future sports competitions. 

This initiative also contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDGs 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDGs 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by encouraging physical activity and fostering healthy social networks through sports.

Basket Asik IKMASA is a testament to how a culture of health, camaraderie, and positive competition can thrive in a lighthearted and joyful environment—one basketball game at a time.

[Author, Muhammad Ardiansyah]

Yogyakarta, May 23, 2025 – The Arabic Study Program Student Association (IKMASA) of Universitas Gadjah Mada brought together students in a lively sporting event, Fun Match Futsal SASRAB, held on Friday evening, May 23, 2025, at Telaga Futsal 1 starting at 5:30 PM.

Open to all Arabic Study Program students regardless of year or gender, the event also welcomed friends, family members, and partners to join the fun. With a participation fee of just Rp10,000, attendees enjoyed an energetic and friendly futsal match aimed at refreshing minds and bodies after a week of academic activities.

More than just a casual game, Fun Match Futsal SASRAB served as a platform to discover hidden talents and nurture interest in sports, especially futsal, among students. This activity also supports the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDGs 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDGs 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by promoting physical wellness and social connection in a collaborative, inclusive environment.

Through this fun and energizing event, IKMASA aims to strengthen solidarity and encourage active lifestyles among Arabic Literature students. Fun Match Futsal proves that student bonding, sportsmanship, and well-being can all be fostered—one goal at a time.

[Author, Muhammad Ardiansyah]

Yogyakarta, May 17, 2025 – To recharge students’ spirits amid their demanding academic schedules, the Interests and Talents Division (Mikat) of the Arabic Study Program Student Association (IKMASA) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted Badminton Time – “Edisi Keringet Bareng!” on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at GOR Lembah UGM from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.

The event was open to all Arabic Study Program students, whether seasoned badminton players or those simply looking to have fun and break a sweat together. With an entry fee of only Rp5,000, participants were provided with shuttlecocks, access to the court, and a vibrant opportunity to play and connect with fellow IKMASA members. No registration was required; students simply needed to show up in sportswear with energy and enthusiasm. Rackets were also available on-site for borrowing.

This activity also aligned with the goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—in particular, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. By creating a physically active and socially inclusive space, Badminton Time served as a platform for building community through wellness and collaboration.

The event successfully strengthened solidarity among IKMASA members while providing a healthy and enjoyable break from academic routines. Badminton Time stands as a testament that the spirit of sports, joy, and togetherness continues to thrive among Arabic Literature students at UGM.

[Author, Muhammad Ardiansyah]

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]