Students of the Department of Indonesian Literature, State University of Malang Discussing Social Relations in Folklore
Faculty of Letters
Afifah Fitri Wahyuningtyas
July 20th, 2024
SDG 4
On July 11-12, 2024, students of the Department of Indonesian Literature, State University of Malang (UM) participated in the International Seminar on Language, Education, and Culture (ISoLEC) 2024, held on their campus. One of the topics they raised in depth was the social relationship between religious and indigenous societies in Indonesian folklore.
Students of the UM Indonesian Literature Department chose folklore as a medium to explore the dynamics of relations between religious and indigenous communities in Indonesia. They choose folktales rich in cultural values and religiosity and contain relevant messages about social harmony and pluralism in the lives of Indonesian people. Through in-depth literary analysis, they tried to understand how folktales reflect the complex interactions between different communities in Indonesia.
In their presentation session at ISoLEC 2024, students presented the results of their analysis in a systematic and structured way. They highlighted specific aspects in folktales that illustrate the relationship between religious communities (such as Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, etc.) and indigenous communities who may have inherited beliefs or oral traditions. Their discussions broadened the understanding of the social dynamics behind folklore and highlighted the importance of cultural literacy in maintaining tolerance and harmony in diverse societies.
The student presentations received positive responses from ISoLEC 2024 participants, including academics and students. The discussions that followed the presentations reflected the high interest in the theme of social relations in the context of folklore. The participants actively exchanged views and experiences, enriching their perspectives on how folklore is a cultural heritage and a reflection of universal values that are relevant in today’s social life.
Lecturers and fellow students from the UM Indonesian Literature Department support students’ attendance at ISoLEC 2024. This support includes academic guidance, provision of research resources, and appreciation for their contribution to raising important issues of social harmony through traditional literary works.
The participation of UM Indonesian Literature Department students in ISoLEC 2024 not only shows their dedication to understanding and interpreting Indonesian culture through folklore but also illustrates their commitment to promoting intercultural dialog and social tolerance. Through in-depth research and critical analysis, they have conveyed a strong message about the importance of understanding and respecting differences in a diverse society like Indonesia.