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 23, 2025 — Elvira Sundari, an Arabic Study Program student at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), claimed first place in the female category of the 2025 Yogyakarta Language Ambassador Selection. The award was announced during the Grand Final and Awarding Night held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 7:00 PM WIB in the Bima Hall, Yogyakarta City Hall.

In a night filled with energy and excitement, Elvira delivered an outstanding performance alongside Razif Raihan Rasyid, a student from UGM’s Faculty of Animal Science, who was named the male first-place winner. Together, they will represent the Yogyakarta Special Region at the upcoming National Language Ambassador Competition. 

The Yogyakarta Language Ambassador Competition is an annual program organized by the Yogyakarta Language Center (Balai Bahasa Yogyakarta or BBY) to select young individuals with strong competence in language and literature. The selection process began well before the awarding night, starting with document screening, followed by interviews, intensive training, and final evaluations. Participants were assessed on personal potential, linguistic knowledge, and foreign language proficiency.

Drs. Anang Santosa, M.Hum., Head of BBY, emphasized that the Language Ambassador selection is more than a competition. It is a platform to shape agents of change who can preserve and promote the Indonesian language, safeguard regional languages, and master foreign languages. This initiative also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education and Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by empowering youth in advancing literacy, language, and cultural awareness.

[Author, Elvira Sundari]

Yogyakarta, May 16, 2025 — Students of the Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), once again demonstrated their active participation at the national level. On Friday (5/16), six students from the Korean Language and Culture Study Program at UGM took part in the Preliminary Round of the National Korean Debate Competition organized by KCCI. The preliminary round was conducted online via the Zoom platform.

This competition was joined by 12 participants from various universities across Indonesia who had previously passed a selection interview. The participants were then divided into two groups, each consisting of six individuals. In addition to their Korean language proficiency, the competition also tested participants’ critical thinking skills and their ability to deliver arguments effectively before the judges.

The UGM students who participated in this event were Ferdinanda Melinda Suryaningrum, Adzini Nurul Fatima Juliani, Alma Naya Kamila, Sabrina Zalfaa Arisanti, Mulya Ghefira Azzahra, and Layla Maryam Al-Muqaddas. Their participation became a valuable opportunity to sharpen their Korean language skills and broaden their academic horizons.

In separate interviews, the participants shared their impressions and messages regarding the competition.

“I’ve always wanted to try new things, but there’s always a lot to worry about. I was afraid, afraid of failing. But it’s okay to fail, right? So I gave it a try. I’m very grateful for making it to the semi-final; no matter what the result will be, I’m already thankful. However, it’s unfortunate that some of my friends from UGM didn’t make it. Meeting amazing people and gaining new experiences is such a wonderful thing. 모든 것이 새로우면 설레게 만든대요. 그리고 그것이 맞다고 생각해요^^.” — Ferdinanda Melinda Suryaningrum

“I joined this competition with strong determination to challenge myself. Even though the team assignment was random, I was actually glad to meet new friends and exchange experiences and knowledge. I learned a lot during the preparation for the preliminary round, and I believe that thanks to our teamwork and cohesion, our team was able to win. It’s a bit funny that we will have to compete against each other later, but that’s what competition is. Finishing one round doesn’t mean I can relax right away because the semi-final and final are still ahead. I’m also a bit sad that not all UGM teams can go together to Jakarta, but I will do my best to represent them and the department. 마지막으로, 여기까지 함께했던 친구들 모두 정말 수고했고 멋졌어! 다음에 또 다른 대회 있으면 우리 꼭 다시 도전해보자!!”  — Adzini Nurul Fatima Juliani

“I’ve never even debated in Indonesian before, so I was extremely nervous participating in this. Even though I didn’t make it to the semi-finals, the experience was truly priceless!” — Alma Naya Kamila

“At first, I joined just to challenge my courage, even though I was scared and worried because I had to compete against fellow UGM friends. But thanks to that, I got to meet new people and quickly became close with them even though we had never met before. This competition will definitely be an unforgettable experience. Thanks to all members of 태양팀 and good luck to my UGM friends who advanced!”  — Sabrina Zalfaa Arisanti

“Initially, I didn’t plan to join this competition because I felt scared and lacked confidence. But eventually, I challenged myself to at least try once. Having randomly assigned team members was a challenge in itself due to distance and each person’s busy schedule. On the competition day, the event went smoothly despite being held online. Interestingly, most of the opposing teams were friends I already knew. Even though our team didn’t make it to the semi-finals, we finished the competition feeling relieved and cheerful. It was a meaningful and memorable experience.” — Mulya Ghefira Azzahra

“When my friend invited me to join this debate competition, I was quite hesitant at first due to my lack of confidence. But with the support of my friends, I gathered the courage to participate. The training process was very enjoyable because I got to meet many amazing new people. Although I didn’t manage to advance, I’m glad I dared to take part in this competition. It was a very valuable experience for me. ⊂⁠(⁠(⁠・⁠▽⁠・⁠)⁠)⁠⊃” — Layla Maryam Al-Muqaddas

Through participation in this competition, it is hoped that UGM’s Korean Language and Culture students will be further motivated to continue developing their Korean language skills and build confidence in facing various challenges in the future.

[Public Relation of Korean Language and Culture, Nisa Khairuna S./Sherina Azmi]

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]

Yogyakarta, May 21, 2025 — The re-launch of Kereta Api yang Berangkat Pagi Hari by Kuntowijoyo marked a special moment at the 2025 Jogja Art + Books Fest. Held at The Ratan, Bantul, the event was attended by academics, literary activists, and literature enthusiasts. The launch discussion featured Prof. Faruk H.T.  (Lecturer in the Master’s Program in Literature and Literary Critic) and writer Mahfud Ikhwan as keynote speakers, with Amanatia Junda serving as moderator.

Originally written by Kuntowijoyo in 1964, the novel is set against the backdrop of the 1949 Indonesian revolution. Rather than emphasizing heroism, the story portrays village life, interpersonal conflict, and a collective search for the meaning of independence in a more humanistic light. This work is especially important to revisit today, notably for its unique sense of locality and spirituality.

In his presentation, Prof. Faruk highlighted that the novel expresses a spirit of reconciliation and communal cooperation as a way out of socio-political conflict. “This novel offers a communal solution to the tensions of that time—between the colonizers and the colonized, between nationalists and traditional elders. Its foundation is oral tradition, and forgiveness is the key theme,” he explained. This underscores an effort toward ideological reconciliation after conflict.

Mahfud Ikhwan, affectionately known as Cak Mahfud and widely recognized for his deep interest in the history of Indonesian literature, noted that the novel had long been “forgotten” and seldom read by the younger generation. He also drew attention to the historical context of Kuntowijoyo’s creative process. “The novel was written between 1963 and 1964, but it is often associated with the events of 1965. This is interesting because we might ask whether Kunto was responding to the events of 1949 or actually preparing for 1965,” he remarked.

The re-publication of this novel was initiated by Dodo Hartoko through Pabrik Tulisan Publishing, with illustrations by Enka Komariah. “Our hope is that this work can reach younger readers without feeling outdated or vintage,” said Dodo in his opening remarks. The new edition features a minimalist and modern design while remaining faithful to the original manuscript. He also emphasized that the setting of the story—Ngawonggo, Ceper—further strengthens the novel’s local thematic character.

The discussion session was lively and interactive. During the Q&A, Arif Kurniawan asked, “If Kuntowijoyo were given the opportunity to write and respond to today’s chaotic political landscape, what would come out of his typewriter?” Prof. Faruk responded by reflecting on Kuntowijoyo’s creative trajectory. “If we look at his first novel, it was very spontaneous, with little control—like the author was directly conversing with the reader. Over time, his writing became more disciplined and autonomous, as though the author gradually stepped back. If Kuntowijoyo were still alive and responding to today’s issues, perhaps his writing would be more realistic, yet still carry his prophetic mission,” he stated. Mahfud added that Kuntowijoyo’s authorship evolved alongside his deepening Sufi ideology: “Kuntowijoyo’s works do not merely record history—they provide meaning through spirituality. If he were writing today, that would likely still define his style.”

The re-launch of Kereta Api yang Berangkat Pagi Hari not only marks the return of one of Indonesia’s important literary works to the public eye but also underscores the significance of preserving classic literature. This event is part of the Jogja Art + Books Fest 2025’s broader mission to position Yogyakarta as a collaborative space for art, literature, and critical discourse. Kuntowijoyo’s work, in this context, is not merely read as a historical document, but as an interpretation of Indonesia’s present and future.

[Public Relation Magister of Literature, Marsya Kamila]