On Tuesday (30/05), the Centre for Southeast Asian Studies (CESASS) UGM hosted Filipino international relations student, Shynna Nor M. Siawan, in the Country In Focus. CIF is a discussion to get to know Southeast Asian countries from a native perspective. Shynna shared her story about the background and culture of the Philippines in front of the college students.

On the second floor of the PSSAT building, Syhnna opened her presentation by introducing the geographical location of the Philippines. Like Indonesia, the Republic of the Philippines is an archipelago. There are 7,600 islands so there are many beach attractions worth visiting. Syhnna recommended El Nido and Puerto Pricesa in Palawan Province. If you prefer mountain views, she recommended Mayon Volcano and Chocolate Hills.

Next, Syhanna explained the symbols of the Philippines, from the national flag, national anthem, to the national animals (Agila eagle, buffalo, and milkfish). In addition, she also explained the typical culture of the Philippines, from clothes, traditional houses, and dances.

Filipino cuisine is no less interesting. According to her, Filipino food is influenced by Chinese, Spanish, and Malay cuisines so that a blend of East Asian, Southeast Asian and European spices come together. For example, the sweet dish Halo-Halo is a combination of ingredients and cooking techniques from China, Spain, and USA.

Not only that, Syhanna invited the audience to play a game of guessing three names of tourist attractions in the Philippines. The fun was closed by watching a short film about the history of the Philippines. The audience seemed enthusiastic to follow the session until the end. Getting to know countries in Southeast Asia became very fun through Country In Focus at CESASS UGM.

It’s related to SDGs 4 (Quality Education).

Last Friday (26/05), Centre for Southeast Asian Studies (CESASS) UGM organised Country In Focus, a discussion agenda to get to know Southeast Asian countries from the natives. In this session, Thoon Nadi Lynn, an international communication student from Myanmar, introduced the beauty of Myanmar’s culture and history. Prof. Dr Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T. as the Head of CESASS  was also present to give a speech on 2nd floor of CESASS building. 

Geographically, Myanmar is located in the west of Southeast Asia. Most of its citizens are Buddhist so there are many Pagodas and Viharas. In his presentation, Thoon also introduced popular tourist attractions in Myanmar, such as the heart-shaped lake Rih Lake, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia Hkakabo Razi, the beautiful white sandy beach Ngapali Beach, and the historic palace Mandalay Palace. 

In addition, Myanmar has a variety of culinary specialties. One of the unique ones is Shwe Yin Aye, a sweet dish containing sticky rice, young coconut, pearls, and plain bread similar to Indonesian Es Teler. There are also Taiwanese heavy meals made from rice noodles such as Mont-Hnin-Ga, Nan Gyi Thoke, and Shan Noodle. If travelling to Myanmar, Thoon also recommended Lapet Thok (fermented tea leaf salad) and Bein-Mont (Myanmar pancakes). 

Thoon then explained traditional dress, national language, and etiquette. She also invited the audience to learn simple greetings and counting in Myanmar. Thoon closed the session by watching a short film and traditional dance video. 

From Thoon’s presentation, we can see that Myanmar is a country rich in nature and culture with 111 local languages and 135 ethnic groups. By holding this discussion, it is hoped that students can get to know Myanmar more deeply.

It’s related to SDGs 4 (Quality Education).

On Wednesday (24/05), Center for Southeast Asia Social Studies (CESASS) UGM welcomed students from Kajian Organisasi Internasional (KOIN), Department of International Relations, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Yogyakarta. The 15 students were welcomed by Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati as the Director of CESASS. 

The purpose of this visit is to know the profile of PSSAT, forms of cooperation, as well as challenges and obstacles while working in the field of research. In addition, students also learnt the process of social studies and the variety of research produced by PSSAT. 

Not only that, the event which took place on the second floor of the building was greeted by questions from students about internship opportunities. This visit is expected to provide knowledge to students about the activities of the study center and attract student interest in research.

It’s related to SDGs 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).