To integrate program and activities for the exploration, performance, research and development as well as dissemination of the culture of the Yogyakarta Palace, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and the Kawedanan Hageng Punokawan Kridhamardawa of the Palace have agreed to establish a cooperation. An MoU was signed by Senior Vice-Rector for Administrative, Finance and Human Resources of UGM, Prof. Ainun Naim, Ph.D., and Pengageng Kawedanan Hageng Punokawan Kridhamardawa from the Palace, Drs. H. GPPH Yudhaningrat, M.M., on Friday (27/5) at the Koesnadi Hardjasoemantri Cultural Center (PKKH) UGM.
The cooperation comprises performance and exhibition of Palace culture, research through studies and development of such culture. Both have also agreed in the development of cultural management at the Kawedanan Hageng Punokawan Kridhamardawa environment and the dissemination of culture to the wider public both domestically and abroad through performances, print media, electronic or ITC. "We welcomed this cooperation. This agreement serves as an effort to maintain culture and introduce it to the wider public in order that it will not be out of the boundaries of religion, state and nation,” GPPH Yudhaningrat, M.M. said in his speech.
Gusti Yudha hoped this type of cooperation would be extended to other areas because the relationship between the Palace and UGM will always continue. Related to the culture of the Palace, it has many literary works, particularly written works. Even so, there are certain written works that are not allowed for public knowledge, namely Diponegoro, as it is feared that it will create multi-interpretation. “It is, however, okay to be read out,” Yudhaningrat added
A similar view was raised by Prof. Ainun Naim, Ph.D. He said that the Palace had long supported the development of Universitas Gadjah Mada. As a university which has vision and mission in science, education and culture, UGM sees that it is only right that the cultural heritage be developed, moreover in the globalisation when all cultures need existence. Thus, various forms of literary works need to be socialised all over the world. It is expected that the various forms will not only exist but also appreciated by international academic community.
Appearing in the event were Executive Secretary, Drs. Djoko Moerdiyanto, M.A., Dean Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Dr. Ida Rochani Adi, S.U., and some other lecturers from the Faculty as well as representatives from the Palace