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Yogyakarta, November 15, 2024 — The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) UGM is pleased to announce the participation of Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., Head of CESASS UGM, as a speaker in the recent Policy Discussion Forum on Demand-Based Transportation Services. Organized by Obviously Sustainable in partnership with Grab, the event took place in Jakarta and focused on advancing insights into smart transportation and sustainable urban development.

Prof. Rini presented on the topic, “Smart City: Smart Transportation (Mobility) and Sustainability”, where she shared her expertise on the integration of smart technology into urban transport systems. Her presentation highlighted the crucial role of data-driven mobility solutions in supporting sustainable city growth, enhancing urban efficiency, and improving residents’ quality of life. Attendees included policymakers, industry representatives, and researchers, all working toward a shared vision of smart and sustainable urban transportation.

Following the presentation, the event featured a focus group discussion (FGD) where stakeholders collaboratively explored the possibilities of research-driven advancements in demand-based transportation services. Key discussion points centered on the role of data, technological innovation, and public-private partnerships in enabling efficient, responsive urban mobility solutions. The FGD aimed to identify potential areas for further research and collaboration between academic institutions like and industry leaders.

The forum concluded with a tour of Grab’s office, where participants had the opportunity to observe firsthand the operational processes and technologies behind one of Southeast Asia’s leading transportation platforms. This event sets the groundwork for continued collaboration between academic institution and the industry, paving the way for impactful research that could shape future smart transportation policies in Indonesia and beyond.

Yogyakarta, October 22, 2024 – The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) UGM held a Research Publication and Journal Management Training on Tuesday  (22/10). This event served as a platform for enhancing the knowledge and skills of participants in academic publishing and journal management.

The event was officially opened by the Head of CESASS UGM, Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., who delivered an opening remark emphasizing the importance of mastering the processes of research dissemination through high-quality journal publications.

The training featured Prof. Liliana Dumitrache, Editor-in-Chief of Human Geographies: Journal of Studies and Research in Human Geography, from the University of Bucharest. Prof. Dumitrache shared her valuable experience in managing a SCOPUS-indexed journal, offering practical insights on editorial strategies and best practices for increasing journal visibility and academic impact.

The event was attended by The Head of CESASS UGM, staffs, and international interns, further strengthening the center’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and research collaboration.

Yogyakarta, October 19, 2024 – The Head of the Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) UGM, Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., was invited as a distinguished speaker at the talk show titled “Better Urban Future: Implementasi Kota Cerdas” (Smart Cities Implementation). The event was part of the 2024 Habitat Day and World Cities Day celebrations, organized by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing Republic of Indonesia (KemenPUPR) at the Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreativitas (GIK) UGM. During the talk show, Prof. Rini discussed the critical role of smart city implementation in fostering better urban futures, emphasizing sustainable and innovative city planning.

The event provided a platform for experts, government officials, and academics to share insights on urban innovation and address the challenges of modern city planning. The discussions emphasized the need for collaboration among stakeholders to achieve inclusive, efficient, and future-ready cities.

CESASS UGM’s involvement in this event reflects its commitment to contributing to discussions on urban development and sustainable practices in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., Head of CESASS UGM and Chair of the Regional Development Studies Program, Master of Geography UGM, had the honor of speaking at a workshop for the course “Smart City Planning Practices” held by the Master of Urban and Regional Planning Program, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sebelas Maret. In this event, held on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, she delivered an insightful presentation on “The Implementation of Smart City Concepts in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN).”

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – 11th September 2024: The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, with support from the ASEAN Secretariat, successfully organized the ASEAN-Plus Three International Seminar on East Asian Studies at ASEAN-Plus Three Countries Universities and the ASEAN-Plus Three Student Camp from September 9–11, 2024, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

The closing session of the APT Seminar on East Asian Studies and APT Student Camp, held at UC Hotel UGM, marked the successful conclusion of three days of discussions, cultural exchanges, and collaboration among ASEAN countries and their East Asian partners.

The event was led by Masters of Ceremony, Zaky and Shyna, who opened the session by welcoming each participating ASEAN country, along with the Plus Three nations: Japan, China, and South Korea. Drs. Muhadi Sugiono, M.A. delivered the opening remarks, reflecting on the achievements of the past three days. “I still see the same enthusiasm we had during the opening ceremony. We have forged connections and shared meaningful experiences. Despite the busy schedule, the spirit remains high. I also extend my gratitude to the Directorate of ASEAN Cooperation, the Directorate of Socio-Cultural Cooperation, and the Ministry of Education,” said Drs. Muhadi.

One of the key highlights of the closing ceremony was the presentation of the Jogja Declaration on East Asian Identities by student representatives David and Keyzha. The declaration, symbolizing the collaborative spirit and unity among the ASEAN Plus Three participants, was handed over to Drs. Muhadi Sugiono, M.A., the Program Coordinator, and was met with resounding applause.

The ceremony concluded with a memorable group photo, capturing the unity between the participants and representatives from the Directorate of ASEAN Cooperation.

Following the formal session, participants were treated to a cultural exhibition by SWAGAYUGAMA and a video screening featuring entries from a video competition. Videos from Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand were showcased. Two awards were presented: Best Performance and Most Favorite Video, the latter being voted on by the participants.

As dinner was served, attendees enjoyed a performance of “Sekar Pudyastuti Wetah,” or “The Blossoming Flower of Reverence and Praise,” by SWAGAYUGAMA. This was followed by additional artistic performances from participants representing the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste.

The closing ceremony culminated in a group photo in true ASEAN style, bringing together all delegates from ASEAN member states, observers, and the Plus Three countries. The Masters of Ceremony bid farewell to the participants, marking the end of a highly successful ASEAN Plus Three gathering.

About CESASS UGM:

The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a leading research center dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of Southeast Asia. CESASS UGM conducts research, provides academic programs, and promotes knowledge exchange to deepen understanding of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures, societies, and development challenges.

About UGM:

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a prestigious university located in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is renowned for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to community engagement. UGM strives to nurture global-minded scholars and leaders who will contribute to the advancement of society.

Writer: Muwalliha Syahdani

Pusat Studi Sosial Asia Tenggara UGM

pssat@ugm.ac.id

(0274) 589658

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – 10th September 2024: The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, with support from the ASEAN Secretariat, hosted the second day of the event with an excursion aimed at introducing participants, including students and experts, to Yogyakarta’s World Heritage sites. The day’s itinerary featured a walk along the Philosophical Axis, which stretches from the Golong-Gilig Monument (Tugu) to the 0km monument.

The Philosophical Axis is part of Yogyakarta’s larger Cosmological Axis, symbolizing the spiritual relationship between humanity and the divine. This alignment represents the connection between humans and God, with the Merapi-Keraton-Southern Coast axis embodying the macrocosm, linking humans to the divine, and the Tugu Pal Putih-Keraton-Krapyak axis symbolizing the microcosm, reflecting human interaction with the environment. These alignments are deeply rooted in Yogyakarta’s traditional spatial planning, rituals, and ceremonies, which seamlessly blend Islamic and Javanese influences.

Following the tour of the Philosophical Axis, participants visited the Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java. Borobudur is a Buddhist temple from the Sailendra Dynasty, constructed under the reign of King Samaratungga around 824 AD. It remains an important spiritual site for Buddhist monks throughout Southeast Asia, particularly during Vesak Day celebrations. After spending a significant portion of the day exploring Borobudur, participants proceeded to the Prambanan Temple to witness the Ramayana Ballet (Sendratari Ramayana).

Even though it was raining heavily, the participants’ enthusiasm remained undiminished as they enjoyed the show. One testimony from Lorn, Cambodia, summed up the experience: “The Ramayana Ballet and Temple was really similar to the one in Cambodia. I believe we have the shared culture among us. Watching the ballet really reminds me of my country.”

About CESASS UGM:

The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a leading research center dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of Southeast Asia. CESASS UGM conducts research, provides academic programs, and promotes knowledge exchange to deepen understanding of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures, societies, and development challenges.

About UGM:

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a prestigious university located in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is renowned for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to community engagement. UGM strives to nurture global-minded scholars and leaders who will contribute to the advancement of society.

Writer: Muwalliha Syahdani

Pusat Studi Sosial Asia Tenggara UGM

pssat@ugm.ac.id

(0274) 589658

Yogyakarta, 9 September 2024 – The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, with support from the ASEAN Secretariat, successfully organized the ASEAN-Plus Three International Seminar on East Asian Studies at ASEAN-Plus Three Countries Universities and the ASEAN-Plus Three Student Camp from September 9–11, 2024, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

The event brought together educators, students, and policymakers from ASEAN Plus Three (APT) countries to deepen their understanding of East Asian issues, foster academic collaboration, and enhance people-to-people connectivity. Participants engaged in discussions focused on establishing East Asian Studies programs at universities across the APT region, promoting cultural exchanges, and encouraging cross-border cooperation.

The opening ceremony, held on 9th September 2024 at the Balai Senat Universitas Gadjah Mada, featured remarks from Prof. Dr. Wening Udasmoro, S.S., M.Hum., DEA., Vice Rector for Education and Learning at Universitas Gadjah Mada. Mrs. Yuliana Bahar, Director for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Cooperation, officially inaugurated the event, while the keynote address was delivered by Prof. Dr. Ir. Sri Suning Kusumawardani, S.T., M.T., Director of Learning and Student Affairs at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology.

In her keynote speech, titled “The Role of Higher Education in East Asian Studies and ASEAN+3 Collaboration,” Prof. Kusumawardani highlighted the importance of building a shared regional identity and emphasized the role of higher education institutions as cultural hubs in the region. She also discussed the significance of embracing the Revised ASEAN+3 Guidelines and outlined key strategies for fostering regional identity through academic initiatives.

After the opening session, the program continued with an international seminar and a student camp (public lecture). The seminar session gathered around 30 experts from various universities around ASEAN+3 countries to discuss East Asian studies. Having diverse expertises, many of them are professors with a focus on Southeast Asian and East Asian studies. The goal is to formulate a “Jogja Roadmap and establish East Asian Studies at ASEAN+3 Universities”. 

Session highlights include:

• The first session featured presentations by Prof. D Ravichandran K Dhakshinamoorthy, Ph.D. from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and Dr. Xue Song from Fudan University-China, moderated by Drs. Muhadi Sugiono, M.A. from Universitas Gadjah Mada. The session discussed “The Role and Significance of East Asia”. Prof. Ravi shared the materials about aspects that make the East Asia region significant, including its new theater & challenges, while Dr. Song talked about global significance of East Asia, cooperation and shared experience between East and Southeast Asia, and the challenges especially on the lack of strategic planning. 
• The second session focused on the topic “Exploring the Establishment and the Roadmap to Establish East Asian Studies”. Three experts, namely Prof. Baek-Yung Kim (Seoul National University-Republic of Korea), Dr. Neo Peng Fu (Nanyang Technological University-Singapore), and Manoj Potapohn, Ph.D. (ChangMai University-Thailand) served as speakers in this session, moderated by Dr. phil. Vissia Ita Yulianto, from CESASS UGM. Each speaker covered different areas of the topic, ranging from the crisis of local extinction in post-developmental Northeast Asia, recent development of East Asian Studies, and studies on how to find a way to move forward from the economist perspective. 
• The first day concluded with the final session on “Jogja Roadmap on Establishing East Asian Studies at ASEAN+3 Universities”. During the last session, participants actively engaged in discussions with the three experts who spoke, including Shofwan Al-Banna Choiruzzad Ph.D. (University of Indonesia), Dr. Thongkham HUNGSAVATH (Souphanouvong University-Lao DPR), and Dr. Muhammad Anshari Ali (Universiti Brunei Darussalam). In this session, both participants and speakers were actively engaged in the discussion about knowledge production of East Asian studies in the Southeast Asia region. 

The seminar and student camp facilitated dynamic discussions, knowledge sharing, and cultural exchanges, solidifying the commitment to advancing academic cooperation and cultural understanding among APT countries. This successful event marks a significant step forward in strengthening regional partnerships and establishing East Asian Studies as a key area of collaboration.

About CESASS UGM:

The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a leading research center dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of Southeast Asia. CESASS UGM conducts research, provides academic programs, and promotes knowledge exchange to deepen understanding of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures, societies, and development challenges.

About UGM:

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a prestigious university located in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is renowned for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to community engagement. UGM strives to nurture global-minded scholars and leaders who will contribute to the advancement of society.

Writer: Nurina Aulia Haris and Luthfiana Nur Rofifah

Pusat Studi Sosial Asia Tenggara UGM

pssat@ugm.ac.id

(0274) 589658

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – 8th September 2024: The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, with support from the ASEAN Secretariat, successfully organized the ASEAN-Plus Three International Seminar on East Asian Studies at ASEAN-Plus Three Countries Universities and the ASEAN-Plus Three Student Camp from September 9–11, 2024, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

The event brought together educators, students, and policymakers from ASEAN Plus Three (APT) countries to deepen their understanding of East Asian issues, foster academic collaboration, and enhance people-to-people connectivity. Participants engaged in discussions focused on establishing East Asian Studies programs at universities across the APT region, promoting cultural exchanges, and encouraging cross-border cooperation.

The welcoming dinner featured an array of vibrant cultural performances, including traditional Javanese dances such as Gambyong Tari Anom, Golek Manis, and Double Banyumasan, performed by the UKJGS (Unit Kesenian Jawa Gaya Surakarta) dance group. These performances showcased Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and set an engaging and festive tone for the event.

Mr. Faizal Chery Sidharta, the Director of ASEAN External Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, opened the welcoming dinner by emphasizing the importance of the ASEAN-Plus Three framework, noting, “This has become a critical issue, particularly as we mark the 20th anniversary of ASEAN-Plus Three. There is significant potential for further development in both the APT and East Asian Studies.” He highlighted the potential for further development in both the ASEAN-Plus Three (APT) initiative and East Asian Studies.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., the Director of CESASS UGM, emphasized the significance of the ASEAN-Plus Three initiative, stating, “With 11 countries actively participating, this program serves to promote East Asian studies and enhance collaboration among universities in the ASEAN-Plus Three countries. Young students are the future leaders, and this initiative prepares them to confront global challenges.”

Drs. Muhadi Sugiono, M.A., the Program Coordinator, warmly welcomed the participants, acknowledging the challenges of attending on short notice. He expressed, “It is a great honor to host you here in Jogja, especially given the difficulties of traveling here on such short notice.” He also took a moment to thank the committee members, asking them to stand and receive a well-deserved round of applause from the audience.

The opening session concluded with Master of Ceremony Rizky Demas Arjunanda outlining the protocols for the following day’s sessions, including dress code and participant guidelines. The day ended with a networking dinner, providing attendees with an opportunity to discuss the event’s themes in a more informal setting.

The ASEAN-Plus Three event at UGM proved to be a successful platform for promoting regional cooperation and addressing global challenges, particularly among ASEAN member states.

About CESASS UGM:

The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a leading research center dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of Southeast Asia. CESASS UGM conducts research, provides academic programs, and promotes knowledge exchange to deepen understanding of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures, societies, and development challenges.

About UGM:

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a prestigious university located in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is renowned for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to community engagement. UGM strives to nurture global-minded scholars and leaders who will contribute to the advancement of society.

Writer: Muwalliha Syahdani

Pusat Studi Sosial Asia Tenggara UGM

pssat@ugm.ac.id

(0274) 589658

The Head of the Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (PSSAT) at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., attended the 35th International Geographical Congress (IGC) 2024, held on August 24-30, 2024, in Dublin, Ireland.

During the event, Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., had the opportunity to present on Navigating Diversity: Smart City Initiatives in Indonesia at the Commission of Governance: Smart City, Neighbourhood Change, and Spatial Inequality. She also participated in sessions at the Urban Commission and the Information, Innovation, and Technology Commission. Additionally, she had the opportunity to meet with several colleagues, including Prof. Frauke Kraas from the University of Cologne and Prof. Liliana Dumitrache from the University of Bucharest, as well as other colleagues.

Prof. Liliana Dumitrache is the Editor-in-Chief of the Human Geographies: Journal of Studies and Research in Human Geography. She will participate in the Erasmus program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and will be involved in activities at the Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS/PSSAT) and the Regional Development Study Program (MPW) at the Faculty of Geography, UGM.

At several commissions during the IGC event, Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., also promoted and shared information about upcoming events, such as the 17th Asian Urbanisation Conference (AUC) 2025, which will be organized by CESASS/PSSAT UGM and the Faculty of Geography UGM in Bali next January. Prof. Frauke Kraas will be one of the keynote speakers at the event.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada (CESASS UGM) held its annual Summer Course, “Meneliti dan Mengajar Asia Tenggara” (MMAT) 2024. This year’s theme, “Social Transformation in Contemporary Southeast Asia,” underscores the program’s commitment to addressing critical social dimensions in Southeast Asia aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 on quality education, as well as goals 5 through 17.

Held from July 16 to 26, 2024, the summer course adopts a hybrid format, combining in-person and online sessions. The program is organized in collaboration with prestigious institutions including the Center for Southeast Asian Socio-Cultural Community Studies at National Chengchi University (NCCU), the Department of Education and Future Studies at Tamkang University, and Mahidol University.

The opening program, held on July 16, 2024, featured welcome remarks by Prof. Dr. Rini Rachmawati, S.Si., M.T., Director of CESASS UGM, Dr. M. Falikul Isbah, the Coordinator of this year’s program,and Prof. Jian-Bang Deng from Tamkang University, representing Cesass international partner, and Prof. Dr. Puji Astuti, S.Si., M.Sc., Apt., Director of DKRG UGM.\

The class was opened by Prof. Anthony Reid from the Australian National University, who delivered a thought-provoking lecture on “Why Southeast Asian History Matters?” His presentation set the stage for a series of lectures that delve into various aspects of social transformation in the region. MMAT 2024 features other 15 international lecturers covering a broad spectrum of topics related to Southeast Asia’s contemporary social landscape. Highlights include:

1. Dr. Luqman-nul Hakim (Universitas Gadjah Mada) – Indonesian in ASEAN: The Quest for Autonomous Regional Order.
2. Dr. Muhammad Rum (Universitas Gadjah Mada) – ASEAN Fractured Approaches to Global Political Crises: The Case Study of Thai Re-engagement Policy towards Myanmar Junta.
3. Dr. phil. Vissia Ita Yulianto (Universitas Gadjah Mada and National Chengchi University) – Southeast Asian Students and Migrants in Taiwan.
4. Dr. M. Falikul Isbah (Universitas Gadjah Mada) – Employment and Digital Economy in Southeast Asia.
5. Prof. Dr. Naoki Umemiya (Sophia University) – International Cooperation in Higher Education in Southeast Asia.
6. Prof. Yuzuru Shimada (Nagoya University) – “Authoritarianism” in the Post-authoritarian Indonesian Society and Constitutional Politics.
7. Prof. Gu Bo Kyeung (Busan University of Foreign Studies) – Korea’s KASI Strategy and Indonesia-South Korea Relations.
8. Prof. Jian-Bang Deng (Tamkang University) – Southeast Asian Migrants Workers in Taiwan.
9. Prof. Dr. Michaela Haug (Freiburg University) – Environmental Issues in Southeast Asia Today.
10. Prof. Syuan-Yuan Chiou (National Chengchi University) – Between Faith and Work: Indonesian Female Migrant Workers’ Adaptation to Religious Life in Secular Taiwan.
11. Assoc. Prof. Minako Sakai (University of New South Wales) – Key Enabler for Financial Sustainability in Philanthropic Foundations: Fostering Social Enterprises.
12. Kanchina Yingyot, Ph.D. (Mahidol University and National Chengchi University) – The Influence of Politics on Thai Culture.
13. Dr. Le Thi-Nham (National Chengchi University) – Performance Evaluation of Bilateral Economic Cooperation between Taiwan and Southeast Asian Countries under New South Bond Policy: Past, Present, and Future.
14. Dr. Mari Mulyani (University of Oxford) – “Participation” and “Social Learning”: How do local communities adapt to environmental change and achieve social transformation?
15. Ronald M. Castillo, M.A. (University of Santo Tomas) – Contemporary Politics in The Philippines.

Accordingly, this year’s program features esteemed international lecturers from eight countries: Australia, Germany, Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines. Student participants come from different universities and countries, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, the United States of America, Pakistan, Taiwan, and Italy.

CESASS are grateful to the support from the Directorate of Partnership, Alumni and Global Initiatives Universitas Gadjah Mada for their continues support.

For more information, please visit the MMAT 2024 Summer Course Program page at https://ugm.id/InfoMMAT2024SocialTransformation.

About CESASS UGM:

The Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a leading research center dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of Southeast Asia. CESASS UGM conducts research, provides academic programs, and promotes knowledge exchange to deepen understanding of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures, societies, and development challenges.

About UGM:

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is a prestigious university located in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is renowned for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to community engagement. UGM strives to nurture global-minded scholars and leaders who will contribute to the advancement of society.

Writer: Ichlasul W. Wicaksana

Pusat Studi Sosial Asia Tenggara UGM

pssat@ugm.ac.id

(0274) 589658