A group of 13 international students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) took part in the Jogja Fashion Carnival (JFC) 2026, held along Jalan Malioboro, Yogyakarta, on August 22, 2026. Their participation brought an international touch to the annual cultural and fashion celebration, while giving the students an opportunity to experience Yogyakarta’s cultural heritage firsthand.
Organized annually by the Yogyakarta Regional Government, JFC 2026 carried the theme “Hangrengkuh Sesotya Tuhu”, which conveys a message of embracing, preserving, and safeguarding noble values as an important part of the identity of Yogyakarta and Indonesia. The event also formed part of the celebrations commemorating the 81st Anniversary of Indonesian Independence.
The carnival featured the participation of international students from several universities in Yogyakarta, including UGM, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY), Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII), and Universitas Alma Ata. Coming from diverse countries such as Timor-Leste, Pakistan, South Africa, Madagascar, China, and Nigeria, the students brought their own cultural identities to the vibrant parade.
During the event, some international students showcased traditional clothing from their respective countries, while others had the opportunity to wear costumes specially designed by fashion designers from Yogyakarta. The combination of international and local elements created a unique representation of cultural diversity in the heart of Malioboro.
For the participating students, the experience went beyond simply taking part in the parade. They were involved throughout the process, from preparing their costumes and attending rehearsals to finally walking in the carnival. The experience allowed them to engage directly with local artists and the creative community while gaining a deeper appreciation of Yogyakarta’s fashion and cultural traditions.
The participation of international students also served as a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration. By sharing their own cultures while experiencing Yogyakarta’s creative traditions, the students contributed to introducing the city’s cultural heritage and fashion creativity to a wider international audience.
More broadly, their involvement in JFC reflects how international students can become active participants in the cultural life of Yogyakarta. Through events such as JFC, internationalization extends beyond the university campus, creating opportunities for students from different backgrounds to connect, share perspectives, and celebrate cultural diversity together. At the same time, such initiatives contribute to supporting the growth of Yogyakarta’s fashion and creative communities while strengthening the city’s position as a vibrant cultural destination.
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