Bandung, UPI
Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) has once again made a standout mark on the international stage through the work of Prof. Dr. Leli Yulifar, M.Pd., Head of UPI’s National Education Museum, who was invited as a speaker at international seminars in Bronbeek, Arnhem on 6 February 2026 and at Erasmus University Rotterdam on 9 February 2026.
The events were fully supported by Oost Indisch Doof, a historical organization founded by Hans van den Akker and Chris Bruggenkamp. In her presentations, Prof. Leli addressed themes related to colonialism and imperialism in history, using immersive technology as a lens to engage audiences. Her unique approach drew significant attention from both academics and historical practitioners, opening up new avenues for cross-national research collaboration, particularly between Indonesia and the Netherlands.
The seminars sparked overwhelmingly positive feedback from multiple European institutions. The University of Applied Sciences Rotterdam and researchers from the Bronbeek Association expressed interest in establishing joint research initiatives with UPI. Meanwhile, the Director of the Onderwijs Museum in Dordrecht has extended an invitation for UPI to visit in June 2026, with full support provided by Dutch hosts. Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, one of Europe’s largest museums, also indicated readiness to collaborate with UPI through its Education Division.
In addition to institutional interest, Prof. Leli’s research received external validation. Her work on BIMA (the Colonial-Era Regent P.A.A. Djajadiningrat) and the third installment of the Berretty research series was awarded an “Excellent” rating by Dr. Coen van’t Veer, a Dutch Studies validator from Leiden University, on 8 February 2026.
Reflecting on her experience, Prof. Leli noted that traditional business cards remain surprisingly effective at international forums. “Shortly after the seminar, I began receiving collaboration offers via email — including contacts from Rotterdam and Bronbeek,” she wrote. She also expressed gratitude to UPI’s leadership, including the Rector, Chairman of the Board of Professors, LPPM/DPPM leadership, DIHS, Kemendiktisaintek, and the 2020–2025 UPI leadership team for their robust support of this international engagement.
Prof. Leli’s presence in the Netherlands not only strengthens UPI’s position as a hub for research in education and history but also paves the way for bilateral collaboration between Indonesia and the Netherlands in colonial history research. By leveraging immersive technology, historical research can now be presented in ways that are more interactive, accessible, and relevant to younger generations.
Looking forward, UPI and its National Education Museum remain committed to advancing historical education, expanding international networks, and driving impactful innovations in how history is researched and shared across the world.