Cultural preservation does not only require knowledge but also ideal qualities. This specific principle is held by Ijlal Ibraazy Al-Mumtaaz, a student of the Faculty of Medicine (FK) at Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus). Recently, he participated in the 2025 Tourism Ambassador Contest of Semarang, with a determination that could slice a rock. He did all of this to be a frontline in promoting the diversity of culture and tourism in Semarang, which was educative, inclusive, and inspiring.
Ijlal’s passion for embodying his commitment came to fruition in the event Denok Kenang Kota Semarang, as he won second place in the event. At the contest, Ijal presented visionary values, orienting solutions, and adaptations to further contribute to the field of culture and tourism in Semarang.
“My motivation to participate in the 2025 Tourism Ambassador of Semarang stemmed from my passion for culture and arts, which I developed since I was little. I grew up involving myself in various artistic events. Currently, in addition to being a medical student, I also teach traditional music to both children and teenagers alike,” he uttered.
As a medical student, Ijlal, who was born in 2005, thought that tourism and health were not two entirely separate things, as both of them could support each other. This was the reason why Ijlal presented a program, namely, ‘Semarang Semarak (Semarang Sehat—lit. healthy, Ramah—lit. friendly, and Aktif—lit. active)’ in the contest. This program involves the wellness tourism approach, which combines culture, tourism, and health.
According to Ijlal, tourism is not all about the beauty of a specific tourist spot, but it can also be an educational and therapeutic platform, like Gambang Semarang, a musical artistic movement, which can serve as a relaxation medium, particularly for teenagers who are vulnerable of hypertension.
“This concept also aligns with the visions of the Medicine Faculty at Udinus, which focuses on preventing hypertension among teenagers. By combining culture and health to promote tourism, I believe it is possible to turn the tourism sector of Semarang to be healthier, more inclusive, and more sustainable,” he continued.
With his status as a runner-up, Ijlal admitted that he wanted to be an active and impactful ambassador, not only ceremonially, but also through tangible actions in promoting tourism and culture in Semarang City with creative education. This education is particularly aimed at the young generation.
“My background as a medical student and a traditional music teacher pushes me to bridge cultural values with a fresher and more relevant approach. Hopefully, Semarang can be known not only for its cultural and historical heritage, but also its friendly, healthy, and progressive natures,” she concluded. (Humas Udinus/Penulis: Ika. Editor: Haris. Foto: Dok. Pribadi)
