UNAIR NEWS – The History Study Program of Faculty of Humanities (FIB) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) held an international conference on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. The hybrid event was titled International Conference and Dialogue on Japanese Occupation and Indonesian Revolution.
Themed Forgotten Groups: A Chain in Voices, the conference facilitates academic discussion regarding Japan, the Netherlands occupation era, and the impact on the Indonesian revolution. In his welcoming speech, the Head of the History study program Dr Sarkawi B Husain SS M Hum, also emphasized the meaning of looking deeper into historical values.
He reminded the participants that Indonesia, Japan, and Netherland shared the same history through colonialism. Through the conference, Dr Sarkawi hoped that an understanding of Japan’s occupation and the Indonesian independence revolution could be built.
“This event was attended by historians, lecturers, teachers, and students. Hopefully, this event will go well and benefit every party.” he mentioned.
A similar thing was expressed by the Vice-Rector for Internationalization, Digitalization, and Information, Muhammad Miftahussurur dr MKes SpPD PhD, during the opening remarks. dr Miftah considered that the theme for the conference was fascinating because it brings various impacts.
“Indonesian revolution era of struggle could surely increase nationalism, triggers historical debates, or even hatred between countries. However, I am sure that this event will bring a better understanding of the era,” he added.
dr Miftah also highlighted UNAIR’s location in the City of Heroes, Surabaya. During the independence era of Indonesia, Surabaya was known for its heroic story of fighting the colonials.
“Here, Surabaya has a long history of the movement and struggle for Indonesian independence. Hopefully, there will be many important insights and new knowledge in this conference.” he expressed.
After the welcoming speech, the event continued with presentations from three keynote speakers from Universitas Gadjah Mada, The Netherland’s Vrije Universiteit, and Japan’s Keio University. Moreover, nine plenary speakers from various institutions also presented their materials.
The conference will be held until Tuesday, May 24, 2022, focusing on dialogue sessions. The opening event was attended by 200 participants online. The conference was also conducted in collaboration with Stichting NJI (Nederland-Japan-Indonesie) dialogue foundation. (*)
Author: Intang Arifia
Editor: Feri Fenoria
