Adia Suite/NICT, FAH Online News – The Faculty of Adab and Humanities (FAH) of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, in collaboration with the SEASREP Foundation, hosted the Islamic Southeast Asia Travelling Classroom (ISEATrac) Gala Dinner on Monday (July 20, 2026) at the Adia Suites Junior Ballroom, NICT Building. Carrying the theme "Islam in Indonesia," the event served as a platform to strengthen academic ties while introducing Indonesia's rich cultural heritage to international student delegates participating in the ISEATrac program.

The Gala Dinner was attended by university leaders, members of the faculty's executive board, lecturers, administrative staff of the Faculty of Adab and Humanities, representatives of the SEASREP Foundation, and student delegates from Japan and the Philippines who were participating in a two-week cross-cultural learning program in Indonesia. Held in a warm and friendly atmosphere, the event provided an opportunity to strengthen academic networks while introducing the values of Indonesia's moderate, inclusive, and culturally diverse Islam.

The evening began with a hadrah performance as the welcoming presentation, creating a distinctly Indonesian Islamic atmosphere. The celebration continued with the Nandak Ondel-Ondel Dance, one of Jakarta's traditional Betawi cultural performances, symbolizing the cultural identity of the host city.

The program proceeded with the official opening by the master of ceremonies, the singing of the Indonesian national anthem Indonesia Raya, and an opening prayer.

In his welcoming remarks, Din Wahid, Ph.D., Vice Rector for Cooperation and Institutional Affairs of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, expressed his appreciation for the successful organization of the ISEATrac international program at UIN Jakarta. According to him, the program reflects the university's commitment to expanding international partnerships through education, research, and cultural exchange across Southeast Asia.

He also expressed pride in UIN Jakarta's growing international achievements, noting that approximately 90 UIN Jakarta students have earned recognition through various international accomplishments, particularly in Study Abroad programs and other global academic initiatives. Concluding his remarks, he warmly welcomed the student delegates from Japan and the Philippines, expressing his hope that their learning experience in Indonesia, especially at UIN Jakarta, would leave a lasting impression, broaden their academic perspectives, and strengthen international friendships.

The next address was delivered by Prof. Ali Munhanif, Ph.D., Vice Rector for Student Affairs, who emphasized that internationalization is one of UIN Jakarta's strategic priorities in building a globally competitive higher education institution. He stated that the presence of international students through the ISEATrac program offers a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and knowledge while deepening academic and cultural understanding of Islam in Southeast Asia.

A welcoming speech was also delivered by Mr. Girard, representative of the SEASREP Foundation in the Philippines and mentor of the Philippine student delegation. He expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Faculty of Adab and Humanities to all ISEATrac participants. He also expressed his hope that the strategic partnership between the SEASREP Foundation and UIN Jakarta would continue to grow beyond this year's program through future academic collaborations and student exchange initiatives.

During the main session, guests enjoyed a Gala Dinner accompanied by live acoustic music. The gathering provided an excellent opportunity for international participants, members of the UIN Jakarta academic community, and invited guests to interact, exchange ideas, and strengthen personal and academic relationships in a relaxed and friendly environment.

As part of the cultural program, the committee presented the Ratoeh Jaroe Dance from Aceh, showcasing one of Indonesia's renowned traditional performing arts. This was followed by an interactive medley of Indonesian regional songs, allowing international participants to actively experience and appreciate the country's rich cultural diversity.

The evening concluded with the presentation of commemorative souvenirs to the honored guests, followed by a group photo session symbolizing the friendship and international collaboration fostered through the program.

Through the organization of the ISEATrac 2026 Gala Dinner, the Faculty of Adab and Humanities at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta once again reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the internationalization of higher education. Beyond serving as a social gathering, the event functioned as a platform for cultural diplomacy, introducing international students to Indonesia's tolerant, harmonious, and pluralistic Islamic traditions. It is hoped that the experiences gained through ISEATrac will deepen intercultural understanding while creating sustainable opportunities for future academic collaboration.

Written by: Khalida Aqila Sepiani / Kasih Nur