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Agustus 02, 2026

From Bukittinggi to Thanjavur: Indonesian Academic Takes Noncommutative Algebra to the World

Minggu, Agustus 02, 2026

From Bukittinggi to Thanjavur: Indonesian Academic Takes Noncommutative Algebra to the World

THANJAVUR — Set against the backdrop of Thanjavur's rich heritage in Tamil Nadu, India, world-class pure mathematics took center stage from July 6 to 17, 2026. The historic city played host to the CIMPA International School: Homological Methods in Noncommutative Algebra and Number Theory, drawing top researchers and scholars from seven nations: France, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, and the United States.

Representing Indonesia on this prestigious global stage was Dr. Risnawita, M.Si., a mathematics lecturer from the Faculty of Science and Technology at UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi. Her selection highlights the growing international standing of academics from Indonesia’s state Islamic higher education institution.

Organized by the France-based Centre International de Mathématiques Pures et Appliquées (CIMPA) in collaboration with SASTRA Deemed to be University, the two-week intensive program aimed to accelerate knowledge transfer and foster international research networks. Delegates engaged in advanced lectures, scientific seminars, and rigorous problem-solving sessions led by world-renowned mathematicians.

Advancing Cutting-Edge Research

For Dr. Risnawita, the international school provided a direct platform to align her specialized research in Noncommutative Algebra—specifically Leavitt Path Algebra—with global advancements. As a rapidly evolving domain in modern mathematics, the field plays a critical role in ring theory, graph theory, representation theory, and operator analysis.

"Engaging directly with global authorities allowed us to refine our research directions and benchmark our academic work against international standards," Dr. Risnawita noted.

The intensive interactions are expected to yield long-term dividends, including joint scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, academic exchange programs, and institutional research partnerships.

A Strategic Milestone for Indonesian Academia

The milestone drew high praise from university leadership. Prof. Dr. Silfia Hanani, S.Ag., M.Si., Rector of UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, commended the achievement as a testament to the institution’s rising global profile.

"We take immense pride in Dr. Risnawita’s accomplishment. Her participation as Indonesia’s delegate at CIMPA India demonstrates that our faculty's academic competence is recognized internationally," said Prof. Silfia Hanani. "Building these global scientific networks is a vital investment that inspires our entire academic community to step onto the world stage."

Dr. Risnawita, M.Si.

The university plans to channel the insights gained in Thanjavur back into its core academic mission:

Curriculum Innovation:Integrating advanced mathematical concepts into undergraduate and graduate coursework.

Global Research Standards:Elevating local research projects through international collaboration and publication.

Community Impact: Applying structured, analytical problem-solving frameworks to address societal challenges.

Dr. Risnawita's participation underscores a broader momentum within Indonesian higher education—proving that geography poses no barrier to contributing meaningfully to global scientific discourse. [IO Media Centre]

Dr. Irwandi

Menembus Jantung Matematika Modern di Thanjavur: Dosen UIN Bukittinggi Melenggang ke Forum CIMPA India, Membawa Aljabar Nonkomutatif ke Panggung Dunia.

Minggu, Agustus 02, 2026

Menembus Jantung Matematika Modern di Thanjavur: Dosen UIN Bukittinggi Melenggang ke Forum CIMPA India, Membawa Aljabar Nonkomutatif ke Panggung Dunia.

THANJAVUR, INDIA — Di antara jejak sejarah dan keagungan arsitektur kuno Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India, denyut sains modern berdetak kencang pada 6–17 Juli 2026. Di kota inilah, CIMPA International School: Homological Methods in Noncommutative Algebra and Number Theory mempertemukan para matematikawan pilihan dari tujuh negara: Prancis, India, Indonesia, Filipina, Sri Lanka, Swiss, hingga Amerika Serikat.

Di tengah jejaring akademisi dunia tersebut, Indonesia diwakili oleh Dr. Risnawita, M.Si., dosen Program Studi Matematika Fakultas Sains dan Teknologi UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi. Kehadirannya menjadi penanda penting bahwa tradisi riset matematika murni dari kampus keagamaan negeri mampu berdiri setara dalam diskursus ilmiah global.

Forum bereputasi internasional yang digagas Centre International de Mathématiques Pures et Appliquées (CIMPA)—lembaga nirlaba berpusat di Prancis—bekerja sama dengan SASTRA Deemed to be University ini dirancang sebagai ruang transfer pengetahuan dan pematangan riset. Selama dua pekan, para peserta menempuh agenda intensif: kuliah pakar, seminar, diskusi kelompok, hingga pemecahan masalah kompleks (problem sessions) yang dibimbing langsung oleh matematikawan terkemuka.

Menautkan Kepakaran di Arena Global

Bagi Risnawita, forum ini memiliki dimensi substantif yang melampaui sekadar kehadiran formal. Bidang riset yang ditekuninya—Aljabar Nonkomutatif, khususnya Leavitt Path Algebra—merupakan salah satu cabang matematika modern yang tengah berkembang pesat. Keterkaitannya yang erat dengan teori cincin, teori graf, teori representasi, hingga analisis operator menjadikan topik ini perhatian utama komunitas internasional.

Kesesuaian materi kegiatan dengan fokus penelitian yang ia kembangkan membuka ruang dialog langsung bersama para ahli dunia. Melalui diskusi tatap muka, masukan kritis dan perspektif baru berhasil diperoleh untuk mempertajam arah riset yang sedang maupun akan dikembangkan di tanah air.

Lebih dari sekadar pembelajaran teknis, interaksi intensif lintas negara ini membuka kran kolaborasi strategis: penulisan artikel ilmiah bersama untuk jurnal internasional bereputasi, pertukaran akademik, hingga inisiasi kerja sama kelembagaan jangka panjang.

Apresiasi dan Impact Strategis

Pencapaian ini mendapat sambutan hangat dari pimpinan perguruan tinggi. Rektor UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Prof. Dr. Silfia Hanani, S.Ag., M.Si., menyampaikan apresiasi tinggi atas kiprah internasional karyawannya.

"Kehadiran Dr. Risnawita sebagai delegasi Indonesia di forum CIMPA merupakan bukti nyata bahwa kualitas dan kepakaran akademisi UIN Bukittinggi makin diakui di tingkat global. Kami terus berkomitmen mendukung para dosen untuk mengepakkan sayap di panggung internasional, karena jejaring ilmiah yang dibangun hari ini adalah investasi besar bagi kemajuan kampus dan bangsa," ujar Prof. Silfia Hanani.

Dr. Risnawita, M.Si.

Keterlibatan ini dipandang sebagai amunisi segar dalam mentransformasikan Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi di lingkungan kampus: (1) Pembaruan Pembelajaran: Membawa perkembangan ilmu matematika mutakhir langsung ke dalam ruang kuliah. (2) Penguatan Riset:Meningkatkan kualitas penelitian dosen agar berorientasi pada standar dan kolaborasi global. (3) Pengabdian Masyarakat: Menjadikan hasil riset murni sebagai landasan berpikir logis dan analitis dalam pemecahan masalah di masyarakat.

Langkah Risnawita di Thanjavur menegaskan bahwa batas-batas geografis dan kelembagaan tak lagi menjadi penghalang untuk berkontribusi pada pengembangan ilmu pengetahuan dunia. Dari Bukittinggi untuk sains global, komitmen itu kini mewujud nyata.[IO Media Centre]

Dr. Irwandi

National Spirit: Touching Monas’s Skies, Weaving Archipelago Harmony

Minggu, Agustus 02, 2026

National Spirit: Touching Monas’s Skies, Weaving Archipelago Harmony

JAKARTA — A nation’s progress is measured not merely by the height of its skyscrapers or the speed of its economic engines, but by the strength of the spiritual foundation sustaining its society. Throughout Indonesia’s journey, physical effort and spiritual devotion have always moved in tandem; spirituality serves as both a moral compass and a social glue binding diversity into a force for unity. Without spiritual depth, physical advancement risks losing its way, whereas unity rooted in prayer and devotion to Almighty God fosters harmony capable of withstanding the test of time.

Beneath the dim glow of the majestic National Monument (Monas) on Saturday night (Aug 1, 2026), the capital’s bustle gave way to solemn devotion. More than 100,000 worshippers from across the archipelago recited a collective prayer for peace and safety in Indonesia. The National Zikir (Remembrance) and Prayer event officially commenced, marking the launch of celebrations for the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia.

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar delivers an address during the National Dhikr and Prayer event for Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day anniversary.

The clear voice of Muhammad Zian Fahrezi—first-place winner of the 2026 Al-Ameed International Quran Recitation Competition in Karbala—resonated across the Monas grounds with a recitation of Surah Ar-Rahman. A shared longing for harmony intensified as Minister of Religious Affairs Prof. Dr. KH. Nasaruddin Umar, M.A., delivered an insightful address before members of the Red and White Cabinet and national figures.

"Through zikir we nurture the heart, through prayer we touch the heavens, and through hard work and service we build the earth," the minister said, emphasizing that harmony is an absolute prerequisite for fulfilling the promise of independence.

His statement underscored the balance between inner purity, one's relationship with God, and social contribution: zikir purifies the heart from prejudice to embrace difference, prayer seeks blessings and peace from the Creator, and concrete work builds civilization and shared prosperity—three complementary pillars forming genuine harmony.

In his address, Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar highlighted the crucial importance of maintaining harmony amid Indonesia’s diversity. Differences in faith, he said, should not prevent the people from uniting through a shared love for the nation.

"Indonesia is God’s most beautiful canvas. We may hold different beliefs, but we are united by our common love for Indonesia," he said.

Efforts to foster harmony have yielded impressive results. The country's Religious Harmony Index rose from 76.47 in 2024 to 77.89 in 2025—the highest achievement cited in the speech. The figure surpassed the 2025 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) target of 76.47 and edged closer to the final 2029 target of 78.25.

Expressing appreciation to religious leaders for their ongoing role in preserving unity, the minister stressed that harmony is more than just a statistical score—it serves as a vital foundation for driving national development.

"Harmony is the cornerstone of development," he emphasized.

This devotion was further demonstrated as six religious leaders offered prayers in turn: Rev. Jacklevyn Frits Manuputty (Protestantism), Father Fransiskus Yance Sengga (Catholicism), Pinandita Gede Pastika (Hinduism), Bhikku Bhadranatha Thera (Buddhism), Xs. Budi S. Tanuwibowo (Confucianism), and a representative of the Islamic faith. On the Monas plaza that night, differences in belief ceased to be barriers, becoming instead a shared spiritual effort for the nation's future.

Among attending heads of State Islamic Higher Education Institutions (PTKIN) and national leaders, the Rector of UIN Bukittinggi, Prof. Dr. Silfia Hanani, followed the proceedings with deep solemnity. Her presence from West Sumatra served as a concrete manifestation of synergy between academia and government to ground religious moderation. UIN Bukittinggi views such national gatherings as a crucible for strengthening a younger generation that is both intellectually sharp and spiritually mature, reinforcing the campus's role on the frontlines of nurturing diversity.

Prof. Silfia Hanani (left) with her colleague at the national dhikr venue

The vast crowd later joined in the National Selawat led by Habib Syech bin Abdul Qodir Assegaf. From the heart of the capital, a message of peace and civility echoed gently yet powerfully across differences, uniting millions in patriotism.

The waving Red-and-White flags alongside selawat banners demonstrated that religiosity and nationalism are mutually reinforcing. That night, thousands of voices reaffirmed a shared resolve: to keep Indonesia standing firm on pillars of peace, brotherhood, and civility. [IRWANDI]

Agustus 01, 2026

Dr. Irwandi

Sowing Seeds of Friendship: How UIN Bukittinggi Students Inspired Thai Youths in Koh Mee

Sabtu, Agustus 01, 2026

Sowing Seeds of Friendship: How UIN Bukittinggi Students Inspired Thai Youths in Koh Mee

HAT YAI, — The ringing of the school bell at Songserm Sasana Vitaya School in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province, Southern Thailand, marked the end of classes on Friday (July 31) afternoon. Yet, in a quiet corner of the assembly hall at the school, fondly known as Pondok Koh Mee, an emotional farewell was just beginning.

Conducted in a hybrid format—connecting the physical venue on Kanchana Ramet Road with virtual screens across Indonesia—the farewell ceremony was brief and understated. Nine students from Sjech M. Djamil Djambek State Islamic University/Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Bukittinggi officially said their goodbyes, concluding their teaching practicum and international community service program over the past few weeks.

Behind the simplicity of the afternoon's ceremony lay a narrative of how academic concepts were applied practically on the ground. The delegation from the Faculty of Education and Teacher Training combined three academic disciplines: Guidance and Counselling, Arabic Language Education , and English Language Education.

The cross-disciplinary team comprised Rafli Dwilianto, Selva Octaria, and Oti Aprillia from the Guidance and Counselling program; Miftahul Azizah from the PBA program; and Restu Rahmadani, Hot Naomi Hikma Yuni, Zafara Khairun Nisa, Halimatussaddiah, and Meilien Surya Angraini from the English Language Education. program.

In Thailand's educational system, the Mattayum secondary level (equivalent to junior and senior high school) is typically integrated within the same compound as the Pratom primary level. Adapting to this structure, the English education students taught classes ranging from Pratom to Mattayum levels. Meanwhile, the Arabic education students focused on strengthening Arabic literacy and grammar among Mattayum students.

"Since the school lacked a guidance unit, we had to adapt to the existing system so that our presence remained relevant and meaningful to the students here," Rafli Dwilianto, UIN Bukittinggi Student, said.

Breaking the Ice in a School Without Guidance Counsellors

A distinctive contribution came through psychological interventions designed for Mattayum 5 and 6 students—the equivalent of Years 11 and 12—who were at a crossroads in determining their future paths. Facing the reality that the local school system lacked a formal guidance department, the university students took the initiative to design interactive classroom sessions.

Through the Johari Window Class, the Thai students mapped out their personal potential—open, hidden, and undiscovered traits—via interactive character analysis. Confidence was fostered through roleplaying simulations, while in the Career Compass Class, MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) test instruments were used to map career interests and introduce the dynamics of Indonesian higher education.

"Since the school lacked a guidance unit, we had to adapt to the existing system so that our presence remained relevant and meaningful to the students here," said Rafli, explaining their strategy to weave supportive listening spaces into a packed formal timetable.

Educational Soft Diplomacy

This educational soft diplomacy approach drew commendation from university leaders. The Rector of UIN Bukittinggi, Prof Dr Silfia Hanani, expressed her gratitude directly to Ustadz Razak, head of the Foundation of SSVS.

Prof Silfia emphasized that the students' international endeavors extended far beyond fulfilling academic credit requirements. "The teaching experience at SSVS is not merely an academic task, but a form of humanitarian diplomacy. Our students are not just transferring knowledge, but also sowing the seeds of inclusive Islamic values," she said.

Echoing these sentiments, the Dean of FTIK UIN Bukittinggi, Dr Junaidi, highlighted the importance of coordinated support from the Research and Community Service Institute/Lembaga Penelitian dan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat (LPPM)—specifically the Community Service Centre and the International Office—in guiding and expanding students' opportunities on the global stage.

The farewell ceremony in Hat Yai drew to a close as the hybrid connection screens faded. However, the emotional bonds, self-confidence, and ties of friendship planted by the Indonesian students in Southern Thailand are set to endure far beyond physical borders.[ Dr.Irwandi]

Juli 31, 2026

Dr. Irwandi

Menyemai Diri di Koh Mee: Saat Jendela Johari Menyapa Santri Thailand

Jumat, Juli 31, 2026

Menyemai Diri di Koh Mee: Saat Jendela Johari Menyapa Santri Thailand

HAT YAI- Dentang bel di kompleks Songserm Sasana Vitaya School (SSVS), Distrik Hat Yai, Provinsi Songkhla, Thailand Selatan, menandai berakhirnya jam pelajaran pada Jumat (31/7/2026) sore. Namun, di salah satu sudut ruang pertemuan sekolah yang populer dengan sebutan Pondok Koh Mee tersebut, suasana haru justru baru bertunas.

Secara hibrida—menghubungkan ruang fisik di Kanchana Ramet Road dengan layar-layar virtual di Indonesia—acara pelepasan berlangsung ringkas dan bersahaja. Sembilan mahasiswa Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi resmi berpamitan. Momen ini sekaligus memungkas rangkaian Praktik Lapangan Kependidikan (PLK) antarbangsa yang mereka lalui selama beberapa pekan terakhir.

Di balik kesederhanaan seremoni sore itu, terekam jejak panjang tentang bagaimana gagasan keilmuan dibawakan secara membumi. Delegasi dari Fakultas Tarbiyah dan Ilmu Keguruan (FTIK) ini memadukan tiga keahlian disiplin ilmu: Bimbingan dan Konseling (BK), Pendidikan Bahasa Arab (PBA), serta Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris (PBI).

Kolaborasi lintas disiplin tersebut diikuti oleh Rafli Dwilianto, Selva Octaria, dan Oti Aprillia dari program studi BK; Miftahul Azizah dari prodi PBA; serta Restu Rahmadani, Hot Naomi Hikma Yuni, Zafara Khairun Nisa, Halimatussaddiah, dan Meilien Surya Angraini dari prodi PBI.

Dalam lanskap pendidikan Thailand, jenjang sekolah menengah Mattayum (setara SMP dan SMA) umumnya berada dalam satu kawasan terpadu dengan jenjang dasar Pratom (SD). Mengakomodasi struktur ini, mahasiswa PBI mengambil peran mengajar murid-murid di tingkat Pratom hingga Mattayum. Sementara itu, mahasiswa PBA memfokuskan pendampingan pada penguatan literasi dan tata bahasa Arab para santri Mattayum.

"Karena di sekolah tidak ada unit BK, kami harus menyesuaikan diri dengan sistem yang ada agar kehadiran kami tetap relevan dan menyentuh hati para siswa di sini,"jela Rafli Dwilianto, Mahasiswa BK UIN Bukittinggi

Meretas Canggung di Sekolah Tanpa BK

Sentuhan pembeda hadir lewat intervensi psikologis bagi siswa Mattayum 5 dan 6—jenjang kelas 11 dan 12 yang tengah berada di persimpangan jalan menentukan masa depan. Berhadapan dengan kenyataan bahwa sistem sekolah setempat belum memiliki kelembagaan BK formal, para mahasiswa berinisiatif merancang interaksi psikologi kelas yang interaktif.

Melalui Johari Window Class, para santri diajak memetakan area potensi diri—yang terbuka, tersembunyi, hingga yang belum disadari—lewat analisis karakter interaktif. Rasa percaya diri ditumbuhkan kembali melalui simulasi bermain peran (roleplay). Sementara pada Career Compass Class, instrumen tes MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) dimanfaatkan untuk memetakan minat karier sekaligus mengenalkan dinamika iklim perguruan tinggi di Indonesia.

"Karena di sekolah tidak ada unit BK, kami harus menyesuaikan diri dengan sistem yang ada agar kehadiran kami tetap relevan dan menyentuh hati para siswa di sini," ujar Rafli Dwilianto, menceritakan siasat mereka menyusupkan ruang dengar psikologis di sela-sela kepadatan jadwal pelajaran formal.

Soft Diplomacy Pendidikan

Langkah diplomasi lunak (soft diplomacy) berorientasi pendidikan ini memantik perhatian dari jajaran pimpinan perguruan tinggi. Rektor UIN Bukittinggi, Prof. Dr. Silfia Hanani, menyampaikan apresiasi langsung kepada Ustadz Razak, pimpinan Foundation of SSVS.

Prof. Silfia menegaskan bahwa kiprah mahasiswa di mancanegara memiliki dimensi yang lebih luas dari sekadar pemenuhan beban SKS akademik. "Pengalaman mengajar di SSVS bukan sekadar beban akademik, melainkan diplomasi kemanusiaan. Mahasiswa kami tak hanya mentransfer ilmu, tetapi juga menyemai nilai Islam rahmatan lil 'alamin yang inklusif," tuturnya.

Apresiasi senada diutarakan Dekan FTIK UIN Bukittinggi, Dr. Junaidi. Ia menggarisbawahi pentingnya keterpaduan peran Lembaga Penelitian dan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat (LPPM)—khususnya Pusat Pengabdian Masyarakat dan Pusat Hubungan Internasional—dalam mengawal serta memperluas ruang gerak mahasiswa di kancah global.

Seremoni perpisahan di Hat Yai sore itu mungkin telah usai seiring padamnya layar koneksi hibrida. Namun, jembatan rasa, benih kepercayaan diri, dan jalinan persaudaraan yang disemai para mahasiswa Indonesia di tanah Thailand Selatan dipastikan akan terus tumbuh menembus batas-batas teritorial. (Dr. Irwandi, Kepala Pusat Kantor Hubungan Internasional UIN Bukittinggi).

Dr. Irwandi

Faith Communities Awakening to Heal the Earth

Jumat, Juli 31, 2026

Faith Communities Awakening to Heal the Earth

Dr. Irwandi

The Keynote Speaker of NICMCR Annual Meeting 2026/Lecturer of UIN Bukittinggi

Not all meetings end when the conference hall doors close. Some truly find their purpose only after participants return to their respective home countries—when presentation notes turn into quiet reflection, and when discussions that once sounded purely academic slowly transform into a moral calling. Such is the enduring mark left by the Workshop and Annual Meeting of the Netherlands–Indonesia Consortium for Muslim–Christian Relations (NICMCR) 2026, held at UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi in West Sumatra in early June. Now, as the calendar turns to late July, what lingers is no longer the agenda of session proceedings or the opening ceremonies, but a question that grows ever more pressing: Can faith communities once again become guardians of the Earth in an ever-changing world?

Dr. Irwandi

That question feels increasingly urgent at a time when the ecological crisis is no longer just a subject of scholarly debate. Climate change, natural disasters, the loss of green spaces, and environmental degradation have become lived realities for communities across the globe. At the same time, social polarization and rising identity politics often widen the divide between peoples. Yet, the Earth makes no distinction about who lives upon it. When floods strike, when the ground shifts, or when forests lose their delicate balance, humanity faces the exact same reality. It is at this critical juncture that religion is called upon to revive the values of compassion, care, and shared responsibility.

Sitka Spruce, Alaska. Source: https://www.green.earth

This very awareness served as the common thread connecting Muslim and Christian academics from Indonesia and the Netherlands during the NICMCR 2026 forum. Centred on the theme Living in a Changing World: Religion, Ecology, and Responsibility , the gathering provided a space for dialogue that transcended theological boundaries. Discussions went beyond searching for common ground among faiths; they evolved into a deeper reflection on how religion can actively help address ecological and humanitarian challenges. Research, education, and community service were seen as a shared path to translating religious values into concrete action.

Delegation of NICMCR 2026

Bukittinggi proved to be far more than a mere host city. Amid the Minangkabau society, which steadfastly holds to the philosophy Adat Basandi Syarak, Syarak Basandi Kitabullah (Custom based on Religious Law, Religious Law based on the Holy Book), participants witnessed firsthand how religion, culture, and social life can flourish in harmony. West Sumatra’s experience with recurring natural disasters reinforced the reality that nurturing humanity's relationship with nature is not merely an ecological issue, but a profound moral obligation. The global perspectives brought by Dutch delegates met the long-standing local wisdom of the Minangkabau people, giving rise to a dialogue that was both academically rich and deeply grounded.

For the Rector of UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Prof. Dr. Silfia Hanani, the forum served as a poignant reminder that interfaith dialogue must not end as an annual academic routine. In her view, interfaith conversations must be continually nurtured and translated into tangible cooperation to safeguard the Earth as a shared duty of all humanity. This outlook demonstrates that diversity is not merely a social reality to be tolerated, but a vital moral asset for building solidarity in the face of pressing global challenges.

Behind the successful hosting of this international forum, the university’s Center for International Office played a pivotal role. Through sustained networking with the NICMCR and various partner universities in the Netherlands, the conference stood as a concrete reflection of the university’s academic diplomacy. NICMCR 2026 is as part of UIN Bukittinggi’s ongoing commitment to strengthening higher education internationalisation. The, internationalisation goes beyond signing memorandums of understanding; it is realized through collaborative research, academic exchanges, joint scientific publications, and an expanding global network.

Praise for the forum also came from Dr. Frans Dokman, a member of the NICMCR Steering Committee. He noted that the gathering in Bukittinggi showcased the strong commitment of all partners in maintaining the consortium’s long-term sustainability. Furthermore, he encouraged academics to take a more serious approach to developing studies on the decolonisation of research methodologies. Global challenges, he argued, require scientific approaches that do not rely solely on dominant perspectives, but instead offer equal space to the experiences of local communities, religious traditions, and knowledge born out of distinct cultural contexts.

Perhaps the most significant legacy of NICMCR 2026 is not an expanded list of international partnerships or a new set of joint research agendas. Far more important is the growing realization that religion still possesses the moral energy to unite humanity in tackling shared crises. When faith communities choose to engage in dialogue, learn from one another, and work together to protect the environment, they breathe life into the true meaning of faith as a force that sustains life. From Bukittinggi, a simple message continues to resonate: the future of our planet depends not only on scientific breakthroughs or technological feats, but on the willingness of believers to make care for one another and for nature an everyday expression of their faith.

Juli 30, 2026

Dr. Irwandi

NICMCR Annual Meeting 2026 di UIN Bukittinggi: Kesadaran Pemeluk Agama Kembali Merawat Bumi

Kamis, Juli 30, 2026

Tidak semua pertemuan berakhir ketika ruang sidang ditutup. Ada yang justru menemukan maknanya setelah para peserta kembali ke negaranya masing-masing, ketika catatan presentasi berubah menjadi renungan, dan ketika diskusi yang semula terdengar akademis perlahan menjelma menjadi panggilan moral. Begitulah jejak yang ditinggalkan Workshop dan Annual Meeting Netherlands–Indonesia Consortium for Muslim–Christian Relations (NICMCR) 2026 di UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Sumatera Barat, pada awal Juni lalu (3-4 Juni 2026). Kini, ketika kalender telah bergeser ke penghujung Juli, yang tertinggal bukan lagi agenda sidang ataupun seremoni pembukaan, melainkan sebuah pertanyaan yang semakin mendesak: mampukah para pemeluk agama kembali menjadi penjaga bumi di tengah dunia yang terus berubah?

Pertanyaan itu terasa kian relevan ketika krisis ekologis tidak lagi sekadar menjadi bahan diskusi ilmiah. Perubahan iklim, bencana alam, hilangnya ruang hijau, hingga menurunnya kualitas lingkungan telah menjadi pengalaman yang dirasakan masyarakat di berbagai belahan dunia. Pada saat yang sama, polarisasi sosial dan menguatnya politik identitas sering kali memperlebar jarak antarmanusia. Padahal, bumi tidak pernah membedakan siapa yang tinggal di atasnya. Ketika banjir datang, ketika tanah bergerak, atau ketika hutan kehilangan keseimbangannya, semua manusia menghadapi kenyataan yang sama. Di titik inilah agama dipanggil untuk menghadirkan kembali nilai-nilai kasih sayang, kepedulian, dan tanggung jawab bersama.

Dr. Frans Dokman, pengarah NICMCR

Kesadaran itulah yang menjadi benang merah pertemuan para akademisi Muslim dan Kristen dari Indonesia serta Belanda dalam forum NICMCR 2026. Mengusung tema Living in a Changing World: Religion, Ecology, and Responsibility, forum ini menghadirkan ruang dialog yang melampaui batas-batas teologis. Percakapan tidak berhenti pada pencarian titik temu antariman, melainkan berkembang menjadi refleksi mengenai bagaimana agama dapat berkontribusi dalam menjawab tantangan ekologis dan kemanusiaan. Penelitian, pendidikan, dan pengabdian kepada masyarakat dipandang sebagai jalan bersama untuk menerjemahkan nilai-nilai keagamaan ke dalam tindakan yang nyata.

Prof. Dr. Silfia Hanani, Rektor UIN Bukittinggi

Bukittinggi menjadi lebih dari sekadar kota penyelenggara. Di tengah masyarakat Minangkabau yang memegang teguh falsafah Adat Basandi Syarak, Syarak Basandi Kitabullah, para peserta menemukan contoh bagaimana agama, budaya, dan kehidupan sosial dapat tumbuh dalam harmoni. Pengalaman Sumatera Barat yang beberapa kali menghadapi bencana alam semakin mempertegas bahwa menjaga hubungan manusia dengan alam bukan hanya persoalan ekologis, tetapi juga bagian dari tanggung jawab moral. Perspektif global yang dibawa peserta dari Belanda bertemu dengan kearifan lokal yang telah lama hidup di tengah masyarakat Minangkabau, melahirkan dialog yang tidak hanya kaya secara akademik, tetapi juga membumi.

Bagi Rektor UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Prof. Dr. Silfia Hanani, forum ini menjadi pengingat bahwa dialog lintas iman tidak boleh berhenti sebagai agenda akademik tahunan. Menurutnya, percakapan antarumat beragama perlu terus dirawat dan diterjemahkan ke dalam kerja sama yang nyata untuk menjaga bumi sebagai tanggung jawab bersama seluruh umat manusia. Pandangan tersebut memperlihatkan bahwa keberagaman bukanlah sekadar fakta sosial yang harus diterima, melainkan modal moral untuk membangun solidaritas dalam menghadapi berbagai tantangan global.

Forum ini menjadi salah satu wujud nyata diplomasi akademik universitas.Penyelenggaraan NICMCR 2026 dipandang sebagai bagian dari komitmen UIN Bukittinggi dalam memperkuat internasionalisasi perguruan tinggi. Internasionalisasi, dalam perspektif tersebut, tidak berhenti pada penandatanganan nota kesepahaman, tetapi diwujudkan melalui kolaborasi riset, pertukaran akademik, publikasi ilmiah, dan jejaring yang terus berkembang.

Apresiasi terhadap penyelenggaraan forum juga datang dari Dr. Frans Dokman, pengarah NICMCR. Ia menilai pertemuan di UIN Bukittinggi memperlihatkan kuatnya komitmen seluruh mitra dalam menjaga keberlanjutan konsorsium. Lebih jauh, ia mendorong para akademisi untuk semakin serius mengembangkan kajian mengenai dekolonisasi metodologi penelitian. Menurutnya, tantangan global membutuhkan pendekatan ilmiah yang tidak hanya bertumpu pada perspektif yang dominan, tetapi juga memberi ruang yang setara bagi pengalaman masyarakat lokal, tradisi keagamaan, dan pengetahuan yang lahir dari konteks budaya masing-masing.

Barangkali, warisan terpenting dari NICMCR 2026 bukanlah bertambahnya daftar kerja sama internasional ataupun lahirnya agenda penelitian bersama. Yang jauh lebih penting ialah tumbuhnya kesadaran bahwa agama masih memiliki energi moral untuk menyatukan manusia dalam menghadapi persoalan bersama. Ketika para pemeluk agama memilih berdialog, belajar satu sama lain, dan bekerja bersama menjaga lingkungan, mereka sedang menghidupkan kembali makna iman sebagai kekuatan yang merawat kehidupan.

Dari Bukittinggi, sebuah pesan sederhana terus bergema: masa depan bumi tidak hanya bergantung pada kemajuan ilmu pengetahuan atau kecanggihan teknologi, tetapi juga pada kesediaan para pemeluk agama menjadikan kepedulian terhadap sesama dan alam sebagai bagian dari laku iman sehari-hari.[IRWANDI]

Dr. Irwandi

Menganyam Diplomasi Pariwisata dari Bukittinggi

Kamis, Juli 30, 2026

BUKITTINGGI— Dari balik sejuknya udara dataran tinggi Bukittinggi, kolaborasi akademis lintas negara tengah dirajut. Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sjech M. Djambek Bukittinggi merangkul Pemerintah Kota Bukittinggi untuk menjembatani mahasiswa Fakulti Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) dalam program magang internasional.

Inisiatif ini menegaskan pergeseran peran perguruan tinggi. Kampus tak lagi menjadi "menara gading" yang terisolasi dalam ruang-ruang kuliah bertembok kaku, melainkan hadir sebagai katalisator yang menghubungkan potensi lokal dengan jejaring global.

Sinergi tersebut ditandai dengan penerimaan resmi para mahasiswa UKM oleh Sekretaris Dinas Pariwisata, Pemuda, dan Olahraga (Disparpora) Kota Bukittinggi, Andreas May Jaya Saputra, di Bukittinggi, Kamis (30/7/2026).

Melalui program ini, para mahasiswa dari negeri jiran tidak sekadar menuntaskan kewajiban kurikulum, melainkan diterjunkan langsung untuk menyalami denyut tata kelola pariwisata Ranah Minang yang berakar pada nilai sejarah dan kebudayaan.

"Dinas Pariwisata memiliki ruang lingkup yang luas dan saling menopang, mulai dari bidang destinasi, pemasaran, dan ekonomi kreatif, hingga pemuda dan olahraga. Mahasiswa magang dari UKM akan mendapatkan pengalaman praktis di unit-unit kerja ini untuk melihat bagaimana kebijakan pariwisata dirumuskan dan dieksekusi di lapangan," kata Andreas.

Panorama Tabiang Barasok di kota Bukittinggi

Bukittinggi memang menawarkan laboratorium yang unik. Kota ini memadukan bentang alam Minangkabau, rekam jejak sejarah pergerakan bangsa, serta dinamika ekonomi warga berbasis tradisi. Keterlibatan mahasiswa Malaysia diharapkan mampu menyumbang perspektif baru untuk memperkuat narasi promosi pariwisata daerah di panggung regional ASEAN.

Dampak Timbal Balik

Kerja sama internasional ini dikawal langsung oleh jajaran akademisi UIN Bukittinggi. Hadir dalam penerimaan tersebut Kepala Lembaga Penelitian dan Pengabdian Masyarakat (LPPM) UIN Bukittinggi Muhiddinur Kamal, Wakil Dekan Bidang Akademik Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis Islam (FEBI) Era Sonita, Kepala Pusat Urusan Internasional Irwandi, serta pengelola Program Studi Pariwisata Syariah, Dewi Manda dan Cahaya Agung.

Kepala Pusat Urusan Internasional UIN Bukittinggi, Irwandi, menjelaskan bahwa diplomasi akademik dirancang untuk memberi dampak nyata bagi institusi dan masyarakat lokal.

Jam Gadang sebagai ikon kota Bukittinggi

"Kolaborasi dengan UKM Malaysia bukan sekadar pertukaran mahasiswa, melainkan bentuk nyata peran perguruan tinggi dalam menjembatani potensi lokal Bukittinggi ke arena internasional. Melalui keterlibatan langsung di Disparpora, para mahasiswa dapat mempelajari tata kelola pariwisata berbasis budaya sekaligus memperkuat hubungan bilateral di tingkat akar rumput," ujar Irwandi.

Prinsip keberlanjutan dan manfaat dua arah (reciprocal impact) menjadi kunci utama. Menurut Kepala LPPM UIN Bukittinggi, Muhiddinur Kamal, mahasiswa UKM memperoleh pengalaman empiris di salah satu destinasi wisata utama Sumatera Barat. Di sisi lain, Pemko Bukittinggi mendapatkan masukan akademis serta perluasan jejaring promosi ke tingkat mancanegara.

Integrasi antara sektor pendidikan tinggi dan tata kelola pemerintah daerah ini makin memperkuat posisi Bukittinggi sebagai living laboratory, yaitu sebuah laboratorium hidup bagi pengembangan pariwisata, ekonomi kreatif, dan studi kebudayaan serumpun di Asia Tenggara. (IO Media Center)

Dr. Irwandi

Bridging Borders: UIN Bukittinggi Partnerships Drive Academic Tourism Diplomacy

Kamis, Juli 30, 2026

BUKITTINGGI, INDONESIA— The West Sumatran city of Bukittinggi is doubling down on its role as an academic and cultural hub in Indonesia, leveraging cross-border educational diplomacy to boost regional tourism.

Bukittinggi's iconic Jam Gadang mesmerises under the night sky.

UIN Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi (State Islamic University of Sjech M. Djambek Bukittinggi) has partnered with the Bukittinggi City Government to host an international internship programme for students from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).

The initiative underscores a growing trend among Indonesian higher education institutions to move beyond traditional classroom instruction, serving as catalysts for local development through international networks.

The cross-border partnership was formalised on Thursday (July 30) as the UKM students were officially received by Andreas, Secretary of the Bukittinggi Tourism, Youth, and Sports Agency (Disparpora).

Hands-On Governance

Speaking at the reception, Andreas highlighted that the international interns would gain direct exposure to local tourism governance rooted in rich historical and cultural heritage.

"The Tourism Agency oversees an interconnected ecosystem—ranging from destination management, marketing, and the creative economy, to youth affairs and sports," Andreas noted. "Interns from UKM will gain practical experience across these divisions to see firsthand how tourism policies are formulated and executed on the ground."

He added that Bukittinggi offers a compelling case study by combining Minangkabau natural landscapes, historic national monuments, and a culturally driven economy. Fresh perspectives from Malaysian students are expected to enhance the city's tourism narrative across ASEAN markets.

Reciprocal Impact

The international outreach effort is led by senior academic officials from UIN Bukittinggi, including Head of the Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM) Muhiddinur Kamal, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs at the Faculty of Islamic Economics and Business (FEBI) Era Sonita, and Head of the International Affairs Centre Irwandi.

Irwandi stressed that academic diplomacy must deliver tangible benefits for both the institution and the host city. "This collaboration with UKM Malaysia is not merely a student exchange; it is a concrete demonstration of how universities can bridge local potential with the global stage," Irwandi said. "By placing students directly within the municipal agency, they can study culture-based tourism management while strengthening bilateral ties at the grassroots level."

The Tourism Village of Lake Diateh, Alahan Panjang, Solok Regency, West Sumatera

Highlighting the principle of mutual benefit, Muhiddinur Kamal noted that while UKM students gain empirical work experience in one of West Sumatra's primary tourist destinations, the Bukittinggi municipal administration gains academic insights and broader international promotional reach.

Through this alignment between academia and municipal governance, Bukittinggi is positioning itself as a "living laboratory" for tourism management, the creative economy, and Malay cultural studies in Southeast Asia. (IO Media)

Juli 29, 2026

Dr. Irwandi

UIN Bukittinggi Trains Interns and Involves Malaysian Students to Boost Islamic Tourism Skills

Rabu, Juli 29, 2026

BUKITTINGGI, INDONESIA — Indonesia’s burgeoning halal tourism sector is riding a wave of rising domestic and international demand for Muslim-friendly travel. Yet, industry observers note that its rapid expansion remains constrained by a fundamental hurdle: a critical shortage of skilled talent proficient in both modern hospitality management and Islamic regulatory frameworks.

Surau Tuo Taram: Historic Witness to West Sumatra’s Oldest Islamic Civilization in Taram Village.

To bridge this widening gap, the Sharia Tourism Programme at the Faculty of Islamic Economics and Business/Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis Islam (FEBI), UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi (State Islamic University of Bukittinggi), rolled out a targeted internship coaching workshop from Tuesday to Friday (28–29/7/2026). The initiative aims to fast-track workforce readiness by equipping students with essential competencies in halal service standards, destination governance, and sharia-compliant certifications.

Dewi Manda, Head of the Sharia Tourism Study Programme at UIN Bukittinggi, stressed that the initiative aims to dismantle the misconception of sharia tourism as a mere promotional buzzword. Noting on the sidelines of the event, she emphasized that it is a comprehensive service ecosystem requiring high professional standards to successfully drive the market both locally and internationally.

Tourism Training. Tourism Practitioner Faizal Basri Outlines Tourism 6.0 Paradigm.

Adding regional weight to the workshop, six undergraduate students from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) crossed the strait to participate alongside their Indonesian peers. Their presence signals deepening academic and professional collaboration across South-east Asia as they engage in interactive dialogues focused on sustainable tourism models and cultural heritage.

Dr. Aidil Alfin, Dean of FEBI UIN Bukittinggi, championed this integrative curriculum. He emphasized that internships must transcend basic academic requirements to serve as a channel for substantive, career-defining learning that precisely matches current industry needs.

Delivering a technical keynote during the sessions, Tourpreneur tourism expert Faisal Zulfi, argued that marrying sustainable tourism principles with the emerging Tourism 6.0 paradigm is an absolute necessity. He explained that this shifts the industry focus away from past eras centered on product acquisition, sightseeing, and digital sharing toward a framework centered on what to live.

Halal Food and Tourism: Sanjai chips are an authentic, halal Minangkabau snack from Bukittinggi.

Mr. Faisal remarked that today's industry focus no longer chases visitor numbers alone. Instead, it drives sustainability that delivers a tangible impact on the environment, society, and local economies by prioritizing authentic values that blend seamlessly with daily community life.

Complementing this macroscopic view on tourism trends, industry expert Witra Neldi unpacked the micro-foundations of hospitality and accommodation. He asserted that modern lodgings are no longer mere resting stops, but rather the beating heart of a traveler's journey.

Halal hospitality standards. Tourism industry expert Witra Neldi explains halal tourism hospitality.

According to Mr. Neldi, this success relies on three core pillars: uncompromising halal hospitality standards ensuring hygiene and family privacy, emotional personalization requiring cultural empathy and warmth beyond rigid standard operating procedures, and sustainable operations integrating eco-friendly practices and local workforce integration into daily management.

Interns: Tourism internship participants receive orientation and training.

Through initiatives fusing rigorous regulatory training, international academic exchange, and next-generation sustainability models, UIN Bukittinggi continues to position itself as a vital talent pipeline for Indonesia’s ambitious sharia tourism economy. [IRWANDI]

Juli 28, 2026

Dr. Irwandi

UIN Bukittinggi Scholar to Study German Dual-Education System and TVET Management at TU Dresden

Selasa, Juli 28, 2026

BUKITTINGGI, Indonesia – A graduate student from the Postgraduate School of UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi has been selected to participate in a prestigious national academic mobility scheme aimed at advancing vocational education and training (TVET) management and educational technology in Germany.

TU Dresden Campus, Germany

Elmeki Satria, a master’s student in Islamic Education Management at the Postgraduate School of UIN Bukittinggi, secured a spot in the Indonesian International Lecturer Study Mobility (DIKMEN) 2026: Overseas Internship Program for Vocational Secondary School (SMK) Teachers.

The three-month fully funded initiative is part of Indonesia's national strategic drive to revitalize vocational education and adopt best practices from Germany’s world-renowned dual education system. Funded by the Indonesian Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) under the Ministry of Finance, the programme is jointly organised by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s Directorate General of Secondary and Special Education alongside the TU Dresden Institute for Further and Continuous Education (TUD FaCE) in Dresden, Germany.

Highly Competitive National Cohort

Nationally, the fellowship is highly competitive, selecting only 34 outstanding educators and academic practitioners from across Indonesia for the 2026 cohort. Scheduled from Aug 24 to Nov 20, 2026, the intensive course aims to equip participants with global leadership capabilities to reform vocational governance back home.

During their study visit at TU Dresden, participants will delve into strategic areas including TVET instructional design and methodology, human resource development, educational technology integration, knowledge transfer from theory to practice, and on-site study of German industrial management and research facilities.

Praise from University

The achievement has drawn strong commendation from the leadership of the Postgraduate School of UIN Bukittinggi. Professor Nunu Burhanuddin, Director of Postgraduate Studies at UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, expressed immense pride in Mr Elmeki’s selection into the national delegation.

Academic Milestone. Frorm left:Postgraduate Administration Head Elvi Sukhairi, Postgraduate Director Prof Nunu Burhanuddin, Elmeki Satria, and Postgraduate Deputy Director Prof Hesi Eka Puteri.

"We warmly welcome and extend our highest appreciation for Mr Elmeki Satria’s selection into this national study mobility programme at TU Dresden," Prof Nunu said. "Our student's inclusion among a select national cohort of 34 participants underscores the global competitiveness and academic rigor of UIN Bukittinggi's postgraduate scholars."

Prof Nunu emphasized that exposure to Germany’s advanced TVET framework and technological infrastructure will enrich the academic scope of Islamic Education Management in Indonesia. Insights gained into institutional governance, industry alignment, and modern instructional design can be adapted to elevate Islamic educational institutions nationwide, he added.

The Postgraduate Building at UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi in West Sumatra. The facility serves as a center for master's and doctoral studies as well as advanced academic research.

"This milestone is not only a personal triumph for Mr Elmeki, but also a catalyst for the internationalisation of our Postgraduate School," Prof Nunu noted. "We trust that the insights and best practices acquired in Germany will be translated into his master’s research and broader educational leadership endeavours."

Through such high-level global engagements, the Postgraduate School of UIN Bukittinggi continues to demonstrate its commitment to contributing to national educational reform while harmonising Islamic scholarly traditions with contemporary global education management. (IO Media Team)