Commitment to Preserve Culture: PBSI UIN Jakarta Marks 10 Years of Pestarama through Seminar and Tribute to Diponegoro the Literary Figure
Student Center Hall, UIN Jakarta, UIN News Online — In celebration of a decade of the Week of Literary and Drama Appreciation (Pekan Apresiasi Sastra dan Drama or Pestarama), the Indonesian Language and Literature Education Study Program (PBSI), Faculty of Educational Sciences (FITK) UIN Jakarta held a national seminar and literary tribute titled “Discussion on Islamic Arts and Literature”, Wednesday (May 14, 2025). This event also served as a special tribute to Mohammad Diponegoro, a prominent figure in the development of Islamic literature and theater in Indonesia.
The seminar featured cultural and intellectual figures who discussed the relevance of Islamic values in art and literature, as well as the importance of commemorating Diponegoro’s legacy in the national literary landscape.
Head of PBSI Study Program, Dr. Ahmad Bahtiar, M.Hum., described Pestarama as a space for creative learning among the academic community. “Pestarama is not merely an artistic celebration, but also a platform for students and lecturers to generate creative ideas and explore the richness of Indonesian literature,” he stated.
Vice Dean III of FITK, Salamah Agung, M.A., Ph.D., praised the consistency of this annual event. According to her, Pestarama enriches scientific insights while introducing literary figures in a contextual manner. “This is not just an entertaining event, but one that broadens academic horizons,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, Vice Rector III of UIN Jakarta, Prof. Ali Munhanif, M.A., Ph.D., noted that Mohammad Diponegoro’s contributions have often been sidelined. “It’s time we discuss cultural legacies more fairly and comprehensively,” said Prof. Ali.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Husein (popularly known as Kiai Cepu), emphasized that Islamic literature does not need to overtly display religious symbols. “Islam is about substance, not formalities. Values such as justice and honesty are the core of Islamic literature,” stated Kiai Cepu.
He also highlighted the importance of dedication in the arts. “Art is a soulful expression that must continue to shine despite limitations,” he added.
On a different note, Bambang Prihadi, Chair of the Jakarta Arts Council and initiator of Pestarama, highlighted the need for freedom of expression in the arts. “The label ‘Islamic’ doesn’t necessarily reflect the depth of Islamic values. Art needs a free space for expression,” he explained.
In addition, Rahmat Hidayatullah, a lecturer from the Faculty of Ushuluddin, pointed out that the Islamic Cultural Institute (Lembaga Kebudayaan Islam, LKI) plays a vital role in bridging Islamic values with aesthetic expression. “Literature is a medium of dakwah, aesthetics, and spiritual expression,” Rahmat remarked.
The event concluded with a tribute session led by Mahwi Air Tawar, who reflected on Mohammad Diponegoro’s role as a pioneer of Muslim theater and Qur’anic poetics in Indonesia. “He was not only religious but also a literary figure sensitive to aesthetics and language,” he said.
According to Mahwi, Diponegoro’s contributions to the realm of Islamic theater and literature have not yet been given the recognition they deserve in the national literary historiography. “He established a network of theater in Muhammadiyah schools and educated children through art. This is a valuable legacy that must continue to be studied and developed,” he concluded.
Mahwi also reminded the audience that centers of Islamic literature do not always have to be based in Jakarta. Many regional figures hold a wealth of historical and spiritual significance that deserve greater attention.
(Release: PBSI/PIH)