On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, representatives from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences participated in a calligraphy workshop as part of the International Association for Asian Studies (AAS) in Asia 2024 conference. The representatives included Maulita Shinta Maharani and Aulia Muchtarom. The workshop took place in the atrium of Building B of the Faculty of Philosophy at UGM, Yogyakarta, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM WIB.

The event began with a round table discussion featuring calligraphy experts from various cultures, including Islamic, Javanese, Chinese, and Korean calligraphy. This discussion provided deep insights into the history, techniques, and philosophies behind each type of calligraphy, enriching the participants’ understanding of calligraphy art from different cultural perspectives.

Following the discussion session, participants enjoyed a communal lunch, which served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships and share experiences among participants from diverse cultural backgrounds. The event then continued with a hands-on calligraphy practice session, where participants were divided into four classes based on their chosen type of calligraphy: Chinese, Islamic, Javanese, and Korean.

Each class was guided by expert instructors who provided direct mentorship to the participants. The participants were taught various basic to advanced techniques in creating calligraphy and understanding the philosophical meanings behind each stroke of ink. Through this activity, participants were encouraged to realize that calligraphy is not just beautiful writing but also a form of self-expression that requires heart and soul in its creation.

The workshop attracted participants from various countries, creating a diverse and enthusiastic learning environment. The participation of representatives from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM in this event demonstrated their commitment to fostering international relationships and enriching cultural understanding through the art of calligraphy.

The event concluded with a group photo session and a coffee break, where participants had the chance to converse informally and strengthen social networks. This calligraphy workshop not only provided technical and artistic knowledge but also introduced participants to the profound philosophies behind each calligraphy stroke, teaching that art should be done with the heart.

As part of the series of activities in the summer course program organized by the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), Victoria University (VU), and the Indonesian Institute of the Arts Yogyakarta (ISI), a public lecture on the Indonesian Diaspora was held. This lecture took place on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at the Siti Baroroh Building, Room 201, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM (GMT+7).

The public lecture featured Dr. Arifah Arum Candra as the keynote speaker. Dr. Arum is an expert in diaspora studies with extensive experience and in-depth research on this topic. In her lecture, Dr. Arum discussed various aspects of the Indonesian Diaspora, including its history, challenges, and contributions in various countries.

Throughout the event, participants consisting of students from UGM, VU, and ISI Yogyakarta were very enthusiastic about the presentation. They not only listened attentively but also actively participated in the discussion sessions that were conducted in a conducive manner. Many participants asked questions and shared their views on various issues discussed, creating an interactive and vibrant atmosphere.

Dr. Arum also encouraged participants to understand the importance of the diaspora’s role in national development and how the younger generation can be more actively involved in strengthening ties with the diaspora community. The ongoing discussion demonstrated the participants’ keen interest in delving deeper into the topic of diaspora and finding ways to contribute to this global network.

This public lecture is an important part of the summer course program aimed at enriching students’ understanding of various global issues and providing a more profound learning experience. The summer course program itself is a collaboration between FIB UGM, VU, and ISI Yogyakarta, focusing on interdisciplinary and international learning.

With the conclusion of this public lecture, it is hoped that participants will take away valuable knowledge about the Indonesian Diaspora and apply it in their academic and professional lives. This lecture also strengthens academic cooperation between the three institutions and provides a meaningful learning experience for all parties involved.

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is proud to host the prestigious international conference “Association for Asian Studies in Asia 2024” (AAS-in-Asia). The conference takes place over three days, from Tuesday, July 9th to Thursday, July 11th, 2024, and is attended by approximately 1,400 participants from 43 countries.

On this occasion, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM serves as one of the main venues for various panel discussions and academic presentations. As a center for cultural and humanities studies, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM provides adequate facilities to support the smooth running of this international conference.

The “Association for Asian Studies in Asia 2024” conference brings together academics, researchers, and practitioners from various disciplines interested in Asian studies. With participation from 43 countries, this conference offers an extraordinary opportunity to share knowledge, research findings, and perspectives on various important issues related to Asia.

Over the three days, conference participants attend various panel sessions discussing topics such as politics, economics, culture, history, and social issues in Asia. These discussions are led by leading experts in their fields, providing in-depth insights and valuable new perspectives.

In addition to panel discussions, the conference also includes other sessions such as interactive workshops. Participants have the opportunity to interact directly with speakers and fellow attendees, expanding their academic and professional networks.

This conference not only serves as a platform for sharing knowledge but also introduces the beauty and cultural diversity of Yogyakarta to international participants. As a city of culture and education, Yogyakarta offers a rich experience in history and tradition, adding value to the conference.

Two female students from the Arabic Literature Program at UGM are participating in an internship program at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for three months from April to June 2024. The two students are placed in two different directorates, namely the Directorate of Protocol and the Directorate of Protection for Indonesian Citizens (WNI).

The first student, Eurrydice Setianingroem, is placed in the Directorate of Protocol. During the internship, Eurry is involved in various tasks related to diplomatic relations, diplomatic receptions, and diplomatic administration. This experience is expected to provide practical insights into how protocol is applied in various events and diplomatic activities. According to her, “Interning at the Directorate of Protocol gave me the opportunity to see firsthand how diplomacy is conducted and to meet important people, of course. This experience is very valuable and will serve as a foundation for my future career.”

Meanwhile, the second student, Aisyah Dina, is placed in the Directorate of Protection for Indonesian Citizens (WNI). Aisyah is involved in various activities related to the protection and support for Indonesian citizens abroad, including handling cases, case documentation, and providing legal assistance. Aisyah gains understanding and insights into the challenges faced by Indonesian citizens abroad, especially in the Middle East, and how the Ministry of Foreign Affairs plays a role in protecting their rights. This aligns with the efforts to achieve SDG 16, which is peace, justice, and strong institutions.

By directly participating in activities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, these two students are expected to apply the knowledge they have gained in college to real-world practice, as well as to develop skills that will be useful in their future careers. They not only gain valuable practical experience but also contribute directly to the process of diplomacy and citizen protection, which are essential elements in achieving sustainable development goals.

Vienna, Austria—On June 29, 2024, the University of Vienna, Universitas Gadjah Mada, and the Austria-Indonesia Fellowship Association held an international workshop titled “Insular Southeast Asia,” initiated by Dr. Gabriele Weichart with the support of ASEA UNINET. The workshop aimed to bring together scholars and students in the social sciences and related fields, focusing on the islands of Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Brunei, and Timor-Leste). Participants were invited to share their latest research, research experiences, and explore new areas and opportunities for future projects in research, teaching, and other collaborative models.

Three lecturers from the Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, contributed to the workshop. Prof. Dr. Bambang Hudayana, M.A., and Gabriele Weichart (University of Vienna) presented a project titled “From cash crop to lifestyle: the long history of coffee in Indonesia,” Dr. Sita Hidayah, S.Ant., M.A. presented a brief project titled “Participatory Digital Ethnography Learning Center: teaching e-fieldwork, digital ethnography and collaborative research at UGM,” and Wahyu Kuncoro, S.Ant., M.A. presented a brief project titled “Nurturing the future: pesantren, piety, and ‘good citizen’.” In this workshop, Dr. Sita Hidayah, S.Ant., M.A. served as an organizer from Universitas Gadjah Mada along with Gabriele Weichart, Sanderien Verstappen, and Daniela Paredes Grijalva from the University of Vienna.

Author: Daiva Keefe Kalimasadha