The Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM) has launched the Diplomat Scholarship Program in 2025 as a new initiative of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) Program at its Jakarta campus. This initiative represents Indonesia’s commitment to educational diplomacy while serving as a strategy to build international networks through academic pathways.
Head of the MBA FEB UGM Jakarta, Professor Eduardus Tandelilin, explained that the Diplomat Scholarship Program was established to provide foreign representatives with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Indonesia. This understanding, he noted, extends beyond state ceremonies to include the disciplines of management and business that are essential in today’s modern era.
The scholarship offered through this program is not merely financial support, but also a long-term investment in strengthening public diplomacy. By studying at the heart of Indonesia’s economy, Professor Tandelilin said, diplomats are expected to gain a deeper appreciation of Indonesia’s culture, economic dynamics, and academic strength.
“As a leading educational institution, MBA FEB UGM Jakarta not only educates professionals but also nurtures an inclusive and globally relevant knowledge ecosystem. This initiative is a concrete example of Indonesia’s educational diplomacy and a strategic effort to build international networks through academic engagement,” he stated on Tuesday (Sep. 2).
Anas Khan, a young diplomat from Pakistan, expressed his enthusiasm for pursuing a diplomatic career in Jakarta while also returning to the classroom. As one of the scholarship recipients, Khan now studies at the MBA FEB UGM Jakarta, balancing his diplomatic duties with his academic pursuit of business management.
For Khan, choosing an MBA program was a logical step, given the universal nature of management studies. Beyond strengthening his understanding of business management, he believes the program equips him with the ability to make sound decisions. As a diplomat, he sees the education he receives at UGM as valuable preparation for bridging business relations between Pakistan and his country of assignment.
“By studying in the MBA program, I not only gain knowledge of the business world but also hope to adapt quickly to changes in the corporate sector. As a diplomat, I can use the education I receive here to connect business relations between Pakistan and the countries where I serve. I hope that after graduation, I will be more proficient in business and able to adapt swiftly to the dynamics of change in the corporate world,” Khan said.
A similar view was shared by Ray Vicheasophea, a young diplomat from the Embassy of Cambodia. For her, the opportunity to study at the MBA FEB UGM Jakarta is both an honor and a challenge.
“I have a strong interest in the business world, and this is an excellent opportunity for me to continue learning while still carrying out my diplomatic duties in Jakarta,” Ray said.
She added that interacting with students from diverse backgrounds and networking with Indonesia’s business community will provide her with valuable experience. Ray also believes that the degree she earns will play an important role in strengthening business cooperation between Cambodia and Indonesia.
“This MBA program is not only academically valuable but will also be realized in practice to strengthen business relations between Cambodia and Indonesia,” she remarked.
Reporter: FEB UGM/Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya