UNS – Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta hosted the ASJI Annual International Symposium & Seminar on Japanese Studies in Indonesia on Thursday (7/12/2023). The event took place over two days, until Friday, (8/12/2023), at UNS Inn. The annual event was made possible at UNS through the collaboration between the Center for Japanese Studies (PSJ) at the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) UNS and the Indonesian Association for Japanese Studies (ASJI).
The fully-supported annual seminar by The Japan Foundation focused on the theme “Human Security Issues: Revisiting the Concept of Human Security from the Perspective of Japan and Indonesia.” ASJI Annual was attended by leaders from each institution, including Chairman of ASJI, Julian Aldrin Pasha, M.A., Ph.D.; Director General of The Japan Foundation, Yuichi Takahashi; Vice-Rector for Planning, Cooperation, Business, and Information at UNS, Prof. Irwan Trinugroho, S.E., M.Sc., Ph.D.; and Member of the ASJI Central Java Honor Council, Siti Atikoh Suprianti, S.T.P., M.T., M.P.P.
In his remarks, Prof. Irwan emphasized that UNS has a strong concern for human security issues. This issue can be deeply discussed at UNS among researchers, Japanese culture enthusiasts, Japanese campus alumni, and the community. He also appreciated the UNS academic community who have pursued education in Japan, stating that their experiences enrich the knowledge of the country for UNS.
“I have great respect for education in Japan. Many UNS academics have studied there. I hope this seminar can be a forum for exchanging knowledge and raising awareness of the importance of human security issues,” Prof. Irwan said.
The Head of LPPM UNS, Prof. Dr. Okid Parama Astirin, M.S., also appreciated the event. PSJ UNS, as one of the study centers owned by LPPM UNS, provides a space for exchanging research results for Japanese researchers and enthusiasts.
“Through this momentum, I hope PSJ will develop not only in research and dedication but also in education,” Prof. Okid said.
This ASJI symposium aims to provide an overview of various human security issues from the perspectives of Indonesia, Japan, and various Southeast Asian countries. The multiperspective discussion features speakers such as Prof. Kenki Adachi from Ritsumeikan University and Julian Aldrin Pasha, M.A., Ph.D., from the University of Indonesia (UI).
The discussion will be deepened by speakers from Japan, the Philippines, and Malaysia in a plenary session featuring Prof. Emiko Ochiai from Kyoto Sangyo University, Prof. Maria Ela L. Tienza from the University of the Philippines–Diliman, and Prof. Zarina Othman from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.
On the second day, the ASJI Symposium showcased the later latest researches from Indonesian academics. Prof. I Ketut Surajaya from UI opened the second day with an overview of the development of Japanese studies in Indonesia. After that, dozens of Japanese study research were presented in panel sessions. In this edition, 75 abstracts were presented in 12 panel sessions, each reflecting the latest developments in Japanese studies in Indonesia.
Julian Aldrin explained the importance of human security issues arising from concerns about attacks on humans. Persistent problems such as poverty, conflict, and warfare have prompted discussions on offering solutions and inputs to governments.
“We want to be part of the solution. From what we discuss today, the hope is to bring about innovation to contribute to the world,” said Julian. Humas UNS
Reporter: R. P. Adji
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
