On February 12, 2025, the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) organized the launch and discussion of the book titled Vitality of Gringsing Weaving in Bali. The event took place at the auditorium of the UGM Graduate School and was attended by academics, practitioners, and students. In addition to the in-person gathering, the event was also streamed live on YouTube to reach a broader audience. The book was authored by Prof. Drg. Etty Indriati, Ph.D., a dentist and forensic expert with a profound interest in anthropology. As a keynote speaker, Dr. Gabriel Roosmargo Lono Lastoro Simatupang, MA, a lecturer in the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies Program (PSPSR) at UGM, provided an in-depth review of the book.
The discussion was moderated by Ida Fitri Astuti, S.IP., M.A., who facilitated the conversation about the weaving works explored in the book. Lono Simatupang praised the book for its innovative approach, successfully fusing her interests in dentistry and anthropology with academic research on Gringsing weaving in Bali. Lono asserts that the book effectively communicates the importance of interdisciplinarity, providing fresh perspectives on local culture. One of the most commendable aspects of this book is how the author effectively brings personal interests into the academic realm, making the subject matter more vivid and relevant in social and cultural contexts.
A question-and-answer session was held after the book presentation and discussion, during which active participants could receive a free copy of the book. The event concluded with souvenirs presented as tokens of appreciation to the book reviewer and the author, recognizing their contributions to enriching academic discourse at UGM. This event exemplified how an interdisciplinary approach can enhance the study of local culture and reinforce awareness of the importance of preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage. This book discussion supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting high-quality education, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). (AHP)
