UNAIR NEWS To commemorate its twentieth anniversary, the Japanese Language and Literature Department of 51动漫 (UNAIR) held a guest lecture. The educational event took place at WS Rendra Hall, Faculty of Humanities (FIB), Dharmawangsa-B Campus on Friday (March 6, 2026). The guest lecture featured a diplomat from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemenlu), Dhanang Rachmanda Fitri, who encouraged students of Japanese Language and Literature to pursue careers as diplomats.
Fitri explained the long history of bilateral relations between Indonesia and Japan, which have remained strong since 1968. This cross-sector strategic cooperation covers industrial development, employment, and the expansion of infrastructure connectivity. 淭he success of our national development cannot be separated from this collaboration. It can all be seen from the long and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries, said Fitri.
Contribution of literature graduates
In supporting diplomacy, literature graduates are believed to be able to make significant contributions through their mastery of language and cultural understanding. They are considered capable of adjusting communication styles when dealing directly with representatives of foreign countries. 淭he strength of the Japanese language lies in its context. You are trained to understand context, and this ability is very useful in diplomacy, Fitri explained.
The crucial role of diplomats abroad also includes delivering strategic messages from high-ranking state officials accurately. In addition to conducting political diplomacy and promoting culture, diplomats are required to provide full protection for Indonesian citizens overseas. 淥ur duty, for example, is to deliver the president檚 instructions properly, while also bridging the Japanese side with all institutions in Indonesia, he said.
Furthermore, the authority of state envoys has become broader and more flexible following Presidential Regulation No. 150 of 2024. This profession requires a high level of adaptability to different communication styles as well as professional work expectations within the ministry. 淲ith that understanding, we can manage how to maintain relations between countries, and in fact, that is one of the most difficult aspects of diplomacy, he added.
Make use of language skills
Language proficiency of literature graduates becomes very important when drafting international agreements, which usually use three languages. They are accustomed to analyzing important documents in Indonesian, English, and the language of the partner country involved. 淭he advantage of literature graduates is that they hold the key to diplomacy in terms of language, social understanding, and specialized communication skills that other majors may not have, said Fitri.
Regarding ministry recruitment, Fitri shared strategies for successfully passing interview sessions conducted entirely in English and basic Japanese. Selected applicants will later receive further comprehensive training on real diplomatic practice. 淚f you want to pursue a diplomatic career, it is absolutely possible. Do not feel insecure, because at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs we really need literature graduates so that we can complement each other, he concluded.
Author: Muhammad Yasir Dharmawan Diniy
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
