Welcoming the "Yogyakarta Characteristic Education" Initiative, Gus Hilmy: A Momentum to Form Cultural Ambassadors Among Students

22 August 2026 oleh admin

dpd.go.id — The House of Regional Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (DPD) RI Member from the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Dr. H. Hilmy Muhammad, M.A., expressed high appreciation for the initiative of DIY Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X in launching "Pendidikan Khas keJogjaan" (Yogyakarta Characteristic Education / PKJ), which is integrated into the educational curriculum, including at the higher education level (20/8).

The Senator, affectionately known as Gus Hilmy, welcomed the strategic move as an effort to strengthen the identity and character of pupils and university students studying in Yogyakarta. According to him, this education is crucial to bridge newcomers with the rich civilization of Yogyakarta.

"This is what we have long hoped for and pushed for in the past. We welcome Ngarso Dalem's initiative regarding Yogyakarta Characteristic Education. We hope the curriculum is adequate and provides ample space for all pupils and students to dive deeper into Jogja from its history, language, and traditions, to its philosophy of life," said Gus Hilmy in Yogyakarta via a written statement on Saturday (22/08/2026).

Quoting a popular adage, the Katib Syuriyah of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) emphasized that acquaintance is the main key to cultivating a sense of belonging.

"As the Malay saying goes, 'unacquainted, unloved' (tak kenal, maka tak sayang). If pupils and students get to know Jogja along with its unique characteristics, they will have greater respect and appreciation for the civilization of this city," he added.

The Vice Chairperson of the Ukhuwah Commission of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) DIY stressed the importance of this character education for migrant students coming from various regions across Indonesia. To him, providing cultural education is a form of mutual respect between local residents and newcomers.

"They come from outside Jogja, which means they hold respect for our culture. Therefore, it is only proper that we provide them with a proper introduction. We want them to become 'Jogja Ambassadors' who are able to share stories and promote a positive image of Yogyakarta when they return to their respective home regions," Gus Hilmy explained.

So far, continued the caretaker of the Krapyak Islamic Boarding School in Yogyakarta, students' knowledge of Jogja has often been acquired merely from casual conversations in public spaces or at angkringan (traditional food stalls). Through an official curriculum, Gus Hilmy believes students will gain a more comprehensive and authentic understanding of the real Jogja.

"Indeed, one can learn about Jogja from anywhere, from angkringan, or from daily interactions but it will be far better if the introduction is carried out comprehensively. Not every city can do this," Gus Hilmy asserted.

Furthermore, Gus Hilmy hopes that the implementation of Yogyakarta Characteristic Education can bring a positive impact on social stability in the Yogyakarta region. He holds high hopes that instilling noble cultural values can serve as a preventive instrument in curbing juvenile delinquency, such as klitih (street violence) and drug abuse.

"We are optimistic that with a strong understanding of culture embedded early on in school, human values and civility will serve as a natural brake for our younger generation to avoid negative actions," Gus Hilmy concluded.