UNAIR NEWS – Muhammad Rusydan Mirwan Hadid, widely known as Rusydan, is a graduate of the Indonesian Literature program at the Faculty of Humanities (FIB), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR). Today, he is pursuing a Master’s degree in Environment, Culture, and Society at the University of Edinburgh after securing the prestigious LPDP Scholarship. His academic path has been both inspiring and unexpected, driven by a deep desire to create meaningful environmental change, a motivation that ultimately helped him earn a place among the LPDP awardees.
Determination to continue his studies
Interestingly, pursuing a master’s degree was never part of Rusydan’s original plan. “At first, I never thought about continuing to graduate school,” he shared.
His decision to continue his studies only emerged after graduation, when his involvement in community service sparked a growing interest in environmental issues. Although the journey was challenging, he emphasized that the secret to winning a scholarship lies in self-awareness and having a clear sense of direction.
He also encouraged undergraduate students who wish to pursue further education to approach every endeavor with love and responsibility. “If you dedicate yourself sincerely and stay consistent, the right path will always open up,” he advised.
Ecocriticism as turning point
Rusydan’s academic transition from literature to environmental studies began with an Ecocriticism course in the Indonesian Language and Literature program at UNAIR. “Through Ecocriticism, we learned how literary works can inspire environmental consciousness. That experience encouraged me to explore environmental issues from a broader perspective,” he explained.
Beyond the classroom, his organizational experience also shaped his worldview. Serving as Minister of Community Affairs in UNAIR’s Student Executive Board (BEM), he directly encountered social and environmental challenges in underdeveloped regions, particularly in Eastern Indonesia. Those encounters deepened his commitment to creating sustainable solutions.
Introducing his hometown to the global stage
Amid his academic journey, Rusydan continues to pursue activism and advocacy. One of his upcoming projects is presenting a documentary film about his hometown, Kenjeran, Surabaya, which is set to premiere on November 7, 2025.
The film represents a personal reflection on his roots and the community that shaped his identity. “I started from Kenjeran, and I’ll always return for Kenjeran,” he said.
Through the documentary, he hopes to introduce Kenjeran to a global audience, not only as a place but as a cultural symbol rich in local wisdom, heritage, and evolving community dynamics.
Author: Marissa Farikha Siti Fatimatuzzahra
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
