Yogyakarta, May 3, 2026—The 2026 Universitas Gadjah Mada Student Creative Talent Event (Ajisaka) kicked off its series of events with a communication discussion titled “Journalism and Filmmaking” at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIPOL) UGM on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. This discussion highlighted the role of alternative media as a tool for advocacy and voicing the public interest, especially amidst the turmoil in traditional mass media.
Featuring two speakers—director and UGM Communication Sciences alumnus Luhki Herwanayogi, and freelance writer and journalist Titah AW—the event not only discussed career opportunities in journalism and filmmaking but also emphasized the importance of leveraging new forms of media to make one’s voice heard.
In her presentation, Titah AW highlighted optimism amidst the crisis in traditional media. She emphasized that although national mass media is currently facing difficult times, that is precisely where opportunities for alternative media arise. “So the ways of conveying messages are becoming more diverse. That is what makes me optimistic. Even though traditional media may be in turmoil, there are certainly new forms emerging behind that,” she said.
Furthermore, Titah encouraged students to begin their advocacy efforts within their immediate surroundings. In her view, the campus serves as an ideal starting point for producing journalistic work rooted in real-world concerns. “Starting from the campus—perhaps among friends—if there is an interest or a focus on journalism, it can begin with the concerns you experience in your immediate surroundings,” she advised.
This statement aligns with the spirit of Ajisaka, which has long provided a space for creative ideas and meaningful works from across Indonesia. Meanwhile, another speaker, Luhki Herwanayogi, also emphasized that independent films and content can serve as a powerful advocacy medium for issues that are often overlooked.
The discussion also addressed the importance of civil society partnerships in promoting education and awareness regarding urgent social issues. Both speakers agreed that collaboration between students, media practitioners, and civil society organizations is crucial for creating narratives that have an impact and resonate with the public.
In conclusion, the Ajisaka 2026 Communication Forum serves as a vital platform for students to explore the potential of alternative media in advocating for social issues. By harnessing the power of journalism and filmmaking, students are encouraged to become active participants in shaping the narrative of their communities.