Yogyakarta, 2/7/2025 – The 4th International Seminar on Malay-Javanese Studies (SEMEJA) was held at the University Club of Universitas Gadjah Mada, presenting an inspiring discourse on the power of women’s narratives in Javanese literature. Dra. Wiwien Widyawati Rahayu, M.A., together with two of her students, Yudha Adistira and Saktia Hidayah, presented a study entitled “Leadership of Female Characters in the Novel Kidung Trěsna Sang Pikatan: Rancière’s Democratic Perspective.”

In her presentation, the researcher highlighted how female characters in the novel by Alexandra Indriyanti Dewi serve as agents of social change. Utilizing the radical democracy theory of Jacques Rancière, they interpreted that leadership in the story does not stem from structural power but from political actions that challenge the established patriarchal symbolic order.

Wulan, Pramodawardhani, and Sri Kahulunan emerged as representations of female figures manifesting Rancière’s three main concepts: dissensus, egalitarianism, and the reversal of hierarchy. Wulan, depicted as tělik sandhi, experiences inner conflict and subtly challenges the system through apparent compliance, a form of dissensus that quietly disrupts the power structure. Meanwhile, Pramodawardhani reflects the spirit of egalitarianism through her sharp political strategies and involvement in the development of Borobudur Temple. On the other hand, Sri Kahulunan firmly opposes the claim that leadership must be male-dominated, showcasing women’s courage in repositioning power.

Interestingly, all three characters were also analyzed through the lens of Donna Haraway’s cyborg feminism, positioning them as hybrid subjects that reject old dichotomies such as male-female or public-private. With this approach, female figures emerge not merely as complements to historical narratives but as leaders who reshape the power map.

This presentation contributes significantly to the discourse on gender and politics within the realm of literature, affirming that Javanese literature can also serve as a democratic space that validates women’s voices as active subjects of social change. More than just a historical romance, Kidung Trěsna Sang Pikatan stands as a text of resistance against patriarchy and a symbol of Javanese women’s bravery in carving their nation’s history.

The seminar also emphasized the importance of cultural diversity in literature, showcasing how different narratives can coexist and enrich the understanding of gender roles. By empowering girls through education for sustainability, the event highlighted the need for equal opportunities in literary representation, ensuring that women’s stories are told and celebrated.

In conclusion, through the presentation session by Dra. Wiwien Widyawati Rahayu, M.A., SEMEJA IV not only celebrated the contributions of experts and academics in Malay-Javanese studies, but also reinforced the importance of education and cultural diversity in building a more inclusive and sustainable future. The narrative presented is a call to action for everyone to recognize and support the vital role of women in literature and society.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, 1/7/2025 – The 4th International Seminar on Malay-Javanese Studies (SEMEJA 2025) was officially opened at the University Club of Gadjah Mada University (UGM) on July 1, 2025. The seminar brought together academics, researchers, and cultural observers from Indonesia and Malaysia. The opening ceremony commenced solemnly at 8:30 AM, starting with a prayer, followed by welcoming speeches from various dignitaries, including the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM and the Director of the Institute of Malay Civilization (ATMA) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).

In his welcoming address, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si., the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM, expressed his appreciation for the presence of all participants and partners from UKM, particularly ATMA. He emphasized the importance of continuing scientific collaboration that had been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “This seminar serves as a strategic platform to delve into the historical, cultural, linguistic, and civilizational ties between the Malay and Javanese communities. UGM believes that Malay-Javanese studies provide significant benefits in strengthening international academic networks and preserving our shared cultural heritage,” said Prof. Setiadi.

He also highlighted that this seminar is not only relevant for cultural and historical experts but also for academics from various fields who wish to develop scientific perspectives rooted in local and regional identities. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of promoting quality education and fostering global partnerships.

This year, SEMEJA IV focuses on how cultural heritage can play a role in community empowerment and strengthening regional integration. The issues raised include language, arts, and culture; leadership and regional integration; heritage preservation as a catalyst for community development; strengthening heritage and sustainable development; and social solidarity through cross-border cultural cooperation.

With an inclusive theme and approach, SEMEJA IV is designed to foster meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic cooperation among academic institutions, local communities, and stakeholders from Indonesia and Malaysia. The seminar marks an important milestone in the efforts to preserve Malay-Javanese culture and create a shared space for academic integration and local values at both regional and global levels.

The opening ceremony also featured a cultural performance of Javanese dance by Ratnatraya, an art student organization from the Department of Javanese Language and Literature at UGM. This was followed by an inaugural speech by YBhg. Dato Haslina Abdul Hamid, the Secretary-General of the Malaysian Ministry of National Unity, and a keynote session led by Prof. Dr. Heddy Shri Ahimsa-Putra from UGM’s Graduate School.

The seminar is scheduled to last for two days, July 1 and 2, 2025, featuring a variety of scientific discussion sessions, community forums, and cultural performances. The presence of stakeholders from both countries is expected to pave the way for closer and more sustainable academic and cultural collaborations.

As part of the seminar’s commitment to the SDGs, particularly in education in developing countries, the event aims to leverage technology and cultural insights to enhance educational outcomes and community engagement. By fostering global partnerships, SEMEJA IV seeks to create a collaborative environment that empowers communities through shared knowledge and cultural understanding.

In conclusion, SEMEJA 2025 not only serves as a platform for academic discourse but also as a celebration of the rich cultural heritage shared by the Malay and Javanese peoples. The collaborative efforts between UGM and UKM exemplify the potential of academic partnerships in addressing global challenges while promoting local identities and cultural preservation.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

The English Studies Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, is pleased to announce the names of students who have been officially selected to join the prestigious RWS Internship Program – Batch 2025.

After a rigorous selection process and thorough evaluation of academic performance, motivation, and readiness for professional development, the following students have been accepted:

1. Adeline Diva Hanjani
2. ⁠Nurainina Berliani Natanda
3. ⁠Bathari Sekar Dewangga

We are especially delighted to highlight that this marks the second consecutive time that students from the English Studies Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, have successfully secured all available internship slots at RWS, an impressive achievement that reflects their academic excellence, professionalism, and global readiness.

These outstanding students will represent the English Studies Program in their internship with RWS, a leading global provider of language services and technology solutions. During their internship, they will gain invaluable experience in the field of language, translation, and content management in a professional international setting.

We extend our warmest congratulations to the selected interns and wish them a fruitful and inspiring journey. This achievement reflects their hard work, commitment, and potential to grow as globally competent graduates.

Amid the surge of technology and the rise of artificial intelligence capable of arranging sentences neatly, Kumala–student of Arabic Literature–chose writing as her path of expression and contribution. “AI-generated writing may be neat, but the emotion and meaning can only come from humans,” she said.

For Kumala, being a student of Arabic Literature is not just about reading classical works or understanding the Arabic language in depth, but also about learning how to voice stories powerfully. Content writing became the medium she chose to bridge theory with practice. She believes that good writing can serve as a bridge connecting emotion, information, and action.

From Interest to Action: How Kumala Began Writing Content

Kumala’s interest in content writing grew alongside her curiosity about the creative process behind content itself. For her, the brainstorming stage is the most crucial. “That’s where it all starts–before the visuals and editing, there’s an idea that needs to be packaged attractively and powerfully,” she explained.

Kumala also brings her academic passion for literature into the world of content. One of her favorite courses is Geoculture and Geopolitics of the Middle East, which opened her eyes to major issues that could be conveyed through writing. “One day, I want to write content that acts as a catalyst to voice issues in the Middle East,” she added.

First Steps at UNAI and Valuable Lessons from One Piece of Content

Although she’s still new to her role as a content writer at UNAI, Kumala has already experienced the challenges of this world. She started by writing carousel content for Instagram, a format that may seem simple but demands high precision. Her biggest challenge? “Finding ideas that are relevant, trending, and emotionally engaging enough to capture the audience’s attention. It’s not easy, but it’s very rewarding,” she said.

Of all the content she has created, her first piece remains the most memorable, not just because it was the first, but because she had to carefully listen to a speaker with an American accent, filter out many sentences, and condense them into a single impactful paragraph. “That’s where I learned how to craft a sentence that truly ‘says something’,” she shared.

The Content Writer as a Communication Bridge

According to Kumala, the role of a content writer is crucial within an institution. “At UNAI, content writing is part of the communications department. So we don’t just create content, we deliver the institution’s messages, vision, and values to the public,” she explained. This shows that good writing isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s also about strategy.

A Message to Students: Dare to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Amid her academic and non-academic commitments, Kumala continues to strive to stay motivated. She holds on to one principle: “The life we live today is the dream we had yesterday. So make the most of it and live it wholeheartedly.”

For students who still hesitate to explore beyond their field of study, Kumala has a message: “Being different isn’t bad. Try as many new things as possible, as long as they don’t harm others or yourself. Don’t reach old age with regret, be a youth who explores, and an elder with stories to tell.”

In this digital era, Kumala believes it’s essential for students to equip themselves with various skills. “We don’t know which skill will open the door to our future career. So don’t be afraid to explore. Technology may be advanced, but we humans must be even more advanced.”

And for fellow Arabic Literature students interested in content writing, Kumala ends with one practical tip: “Write what you think. Set small milestones for your skill development so you don’t get stuck in one place and can keep growing.”

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, 17/6/2025 – The Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences—Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si.—welcomed the delegation from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Padjadjaran University, during the benchmarking visit of FISIP Unpad to the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM). The event was held offline at the Margono Building, FIB UGM, in an atmosphere full of collaborative spirit and kinship.

This benchmarking activity was attended directly by the Dean of FISIP Unpad—Prof. Dr. Mohammad Benny Alexandri, S.E., M.M.—along with his entourage and warmly received by the Dean and Vice Deans of FIB UGM.

In his remarks, the Dean of FIB UGM presented various strategic programs currently being implemented by the faculty, including INCULS (Indonesian Culture and Language Program for Foreign Learners), one of FIB UGM’s initiatives in internationalization and in promoting the Indonesian language and culture to the world.

The Dean of FIB UGM also explained that the faculty offers complementary courses to fulfill students’ credit requirements, including practice-based courses such as soft skills and cultural practices. These are designed not only to enhance students’ theoretical understanding but also to develop their practical skills in the field.

On the same occasion, he also mentioned that an academic event from one of FIB UGM’s study programs—the Archaeology Exhibition—was being held as part of the learning program.

Furthermore, the discussion also touched upon the partnerships and cooperation networks that FIB UGM has established with various international universities. These networks continue to expand through mobility programs, student exchanges, collaborative research, and programs for teaching the Indonesian language and culture to foreign speakers.

The benchmarking visit concluded with a warm discussion and exchange of ideas between the two institutions, with the hope of opening up new opportunities to improve the quality of education within the faculties.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]