UGM ideas have been recognized to offer solutions based on synergy of latest sciences and local wisdom on various problems of nation and humanity. This tradition is realized through scientific development that still holds on to Gadjah Mada values and has strong orientation on people’s interest, multiculturism and lifelong learning.
After three previous publications, Kompas media has re-published the tetralogy of The Other Side of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) entitled Pak Beye dan Keluarganya (Mr. Beye and His Family). By the same author, Wisnu Nugroho, this book tells about the family to which Pak Beye returns from his routine as the number one person in the Republic of Indonesia. In his family in Cikeas area, various ideas and ideals of SBY are grown. His family is no longer limited to those who have blood ties. There are Democratic Party and ideological children growing up there. Against the role of Pak Beye and his family, a number of criticisms have appeared, fearing the emergence of a dynasty like that in monarchy system.
This collective spirit to overcome problems together describes volunteerism in oneself. Collectively, it becomes a huge capital of social strength that should be maintained during disaster recovery process. Learning from disaster can be a learning moment to build the strength in facing globalization, liberalization and business competition that is getting stronger, and various crises that emerge at anytime.”Although in different manifestations, many analogies can be taken,” he continues.
He added that drastic change in social, politic and economic system in a nation may strike Indonesia quickly. Monetary and economic crises in other parts of the world may cause similar crises in Indonesia. This kind of crisis is like natural disasters, destroying community’s capacity if it has no good social, politic and economic strength. Therefore, capacity to manage disaster by building strength in all fields is expected to become the strong foundation for dealing with crises. “It is the post-disaster advanced jump that needs to be built to manage all crises,” he said.
Besides Governor of Province of Yogyakarta Special Region, also attending the event were Board of Trustees, Academic Senate, Council of Professors and Auditing Council, University and Faculty leadership, civil and military officials, and specially volunteers of Merapi.