Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus) is committed to further improving the bilateral relationship between Indonesia and Germany. The bilateral relationship was established by giving the Sekar Nuswantoro Gamelan Robot to Goethe-Institut.

The robot, which can play gamelans automatically, was directly handed by Prof. Dr. Pulung Nurtantio Andono, S.T., M.Kom., to Thomas Graf, the Deputy German Ambassador to Indonesia. The procession, which was part of a bigger event named Alles Goethe!, was held in the Herzlich Willkommen Auditorium, Jakarta, on Saturday, August 24th, 2024.

On that occasion, Prof. Dr. Ir. Edi Noersasongko, M.Kom., (the Chancellor of Udinus) was also present accompanied by Tri Rustanti, S.E., M.M., (the Chairman of the Dian Nuswantoro Foundation), and Lakshiputri Arnindita, S.Sos., M.M.

During his interview, the chancellor revealed that the handover of this gamelan robot acted as a symbolization of cultural and technological collaborations between the two countries. The chancellor further hoped for the bonds between the two institutions to be closer.

“We expect this collaboration to push the emergence of other innovations from both Indonesia and Germany, particularly in the field of Technology and Humanities, which currently see rapid development,” the chancellor uttered.

Furthermore, he added that both the Sekar Nuswantoro Gamelan Robot and E-Gamelanku were products of the commitment held by Udinus to preserving Indonesian culture. The idea of the gamelan robot began to be unveiled when Prof. Edi saw many gamelans at UNESCO. However, not a single individual was able to play them.

“These innovations show that technology can be synergized with cultures to create something amazing. This robot can also function as a way for the young generation to take a peek at the Indonesian culture,” the chancellor added.

At the same event, Thomas Graf expressed his gratitude for the Gamelan robot. Graf was also amazed by the innovations shown by Udinus. Furthermore, he revealed that he had the opportunity to try the E-Gamelanku.

“The gamelan robot does not only show how technology has come this far but also how it blends well with the wonders of Indonesian culture. We hereby appreciate this contribution. Truly a phenomenal one!” Graf said.

Prior to the handover, the gamelan robot managed to mesmerize the whole audience by playing three Javanese songs.

In addition, seven students also showcased their performance, playing the Electronic Gamelan of Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (E-Gamelanku).

The voices of two traditional Javanese singers were also able to captivate all the attendants of Alles Goethe! The event itself was hosted at Goether-Institut, Jakarta. (Humas Udinus/Alex. Foto: Humas Udinus)