Every Kamis Pon, the atmosphere at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), becomes more vibrant with faculty and staff from the Department of Dental Biomaterial Sciences (IBKG) dressed in traditional attire and jarik fabric. This tradition is a tangible effort by UGM and FKG UGM’s human resources department to preserve Javanese culture and instill local wisdom values in the academic environment.
Since early 2024, Kamis Pon, a significant day in the Javanese calendar, has become a special occasion. On this day, IBKG faculty and staff showcase their elegance in traditional clothing. Women wear various kebayas adorned with graceful patterns and colors paired with jarik, creating a distinct campus ambiance. Male lecturers, such as Prof. Widjijono, and staff like Ahmad Muttaqin, also participate by donning surjan lurik, enriching the cultural atmosphere in the academic setting.
“Wearing traditional attire and jarik every Kamis Pon is not just a habit but a reminder of the importance of preserving and respecting our culture, especially in an academic environment,” said Ahmad Muttaqin, dressed in a brown surjan lurik. Similarly, drg. Friska Ani Rahman, gracefully adorned in brown batik jarik, remarked, “This tradition teaches us about togetherness and pride in our cultural identity.”
Through the Kamis Pon tradition, IBKG FKG UGM faculty and staff demonstrate that preserving local culture is essential in shaping strong character, both in education and daily life. Kamis Pon is not just an ordinary day but a celebration of cultural identity that continues to thrive in an academic setting.
By upholding this tradition, FKG UGM also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which aims to preserve cultural heritage. By maintaining and promoting traditional clothing, IBKG faculty and staff contribute to preserving cultural identity amidst globalization.
Contributor: drg. Mutiara Annisa, MDSc | Author: Diva Luthfi
