Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP), UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta's civil servants' spouses association, strengthened its spirit of togetherness while encouraging self-actualization through its Quarterly Meeting, held alongside the commemoration of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Under the theme “Style and Ethics of Dress in Self-Actualization,” the event took place in the 1st Floor Meeting Room of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta's PAU Building on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
Organized by DWP's chapter at the Faculty of Adab and Cultural Sciences (FADIB), the event became a space for fellowship among the extended DWP UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta family. More than a routine gathering, it was designed as a space for sharing knowledge, building confidence, and nurturing cultural values and togetherness within the campus community.
Chair of DWP FADIB, Mrs. Verawati Nurdin, said in her remarks that the way one dresses cannot be separated from cultural values and social context. She also expressed appreciation to the entire DWP UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta leadership, DWP FADIB, the senior members present, and all participants who supported the event.
Meanwhile, Chair of DWP UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Mrs. Euis Nurlaelawati Noorhaidi, invited participants to see dress not simply as a matter of appearance, but also as part of cultural expression and identity.
Drawing on a cultural anthropology perspective, Mrs. Euis explained that a society's creativity, taste, and will (cipta, rasa, dan karsa) can be reflected across many aspects of life, from food and cooking methods to clothing choices. This diversity, she said, reflects the rich cultural identity that lives within Indonesian society.
“Dress is an important part of expressing who we are, wherever we happen to be,” she said.
This perspective aligns with UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta's broader spirit of placing culture, diversity, and humanitarian values at the heart of academic life. Gatherings like this DWP meeting form part of the effort to build a campus ecosystem that is warm, inclusive, and grounded in strong character.
The main presentation was delivered by Ms. Dani Wilastri, who invited participants to understand dress ethics as part of personal presence. According to her, appearance is not simply about following trends; it relates to how a person shows respect for themselves, for others, and for their surroundings.
She emphasized three main principles: suitability for the occasion, modesty, and proportion and fit relative to one's body. Neatness, cleanliness, comfort, and the choice of accessories were also highlighted as important parts of putting together the right look.
“Fashion isn't just about what we wear, it's about how we communicate our values, our identity, and our respect for the people around us,” she explained.
She added that a good appearance can make someone noticed, but good conduct is what makes someone respected. When the two go hand in hand, they give rise to a personal presence marked by both class and integrity.
This message made the topic of dress relevant not only in the context of personal appearance, but also in building a positive image for women within the family, the community, and the institution.
The atmosphere grew even livelier with a fashion show competition featuring 23 participants representing faculties across UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta. Guided by Mrs. Ziadatul Husnah, participants showcased three categories of dress: formal, party, and casual wear.
The event was festive, with live music and a warm, family-like atmosphere. Participants' performances were judged by Ms. Dani Wilastri and Mrs Ny. Ening Herniti Bahiej.
Before the winners were announced, the Suka Mentari Angklung Group of DWP UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta provided entertainment, performing the songs “Tanah Airku” (My Homeland) and “Yogya Istimewa” (Special Yogyakarta). Their performance further reinforced a sense of national pride and love for local culture as part of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day commemoration.
Closing the event, Ms. Dani Wilastri told participants that everyone who took part was a winner, for having had the courage to take the stage and give their very best effort. Her message served as a reflection that self-actualization isn't always about being better than others; it's about having the courage to recognize one's own potential, to value oneself, and to keep growing.
Through this Quarterly Meeting, DWP UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta once again demonstrated its role as a space for fellowship, personal development, and strengthening a spirit of togetherness. This spirit forms part of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta's broader effort to build a campus culture that is not only academically excellent, but also humane, culturally rich, and grounded in integrity. (humassk)