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This study aims to (1) identify and describe the forms of rhetorical strategies used by students in language and literature learning, and (2) analyze the reflection and implementation of elements of Makassar cultural traditions in these rhetorical strategies. This study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Data collection techniques are carried out through direct observation of the learning process and in-depth interviews with students as research subjects. The data obtained are analyzed through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that students apply several main rhetorical strategies, such as the use of metaphors, similes, symbolic expressions, and local idioms that represent the values ​​of siri' na pacce, namely the concepts of self-esteem, solidarity, and empathy in Makassar culture. These culture-based rhetorical strategies are proven to be able to increase the effectiveness of academic communication, enrich language expression, and strengthen students' awareness and understanding of local cultural identity in the context of language and literature learning in higher education.

In the contemporary era,many people have yet to fully comprehend or internalize the spiritual and social dimensions of prayer (shalat). As a result, shalat is often carried out merely as a routine obligation without deep reflection on its true purpose. In fact, shalat plays a significant role in shaping personal character and social behavior. This study employs a literature review approach by examining various sources, including books, academic journals, and educational articles that discuss the concept and significance of shalat as an act of worship. The findings indicate that a profound understanding of the inner meanings of shalat can foster self-awareness, self-control, and discipline. These values strongly contribute to the development of moral and ethical character. Furthermore, shalat reflects collective religiosity through its practices and procedures, symbolizing spiritual purification, reverence for God, and awareness of human limitations. Congregational prayer further emphasizes principles of unity, brotherhood, and equality, regardless of social status or background. In addition, shalat functions as a moral safeguard that prevents individuals from engaging in immoral and harmful actions. Therefore, shalat plays a crucial role not only in strengthening spiritual devotion but also in maintaining personal integrity and social harmony.

This study aims to carry out a thorough analysis of the use of stylistic elements, particularly in terms of diction and language style, as applied by Pitoyo Amrih to shape the character of Gatotkaca in the novel Sisi Gelap Gatotkaca. The character of Gatotkaca, traditionally depicted as a flawless heroic figure, is reimagined by the author through a more humanistic and reflective linguistic approach. Using a qualitative descriptive method alongside stylistic literary criticism, this article examines how linguistic units within the text serve as rhetorical tools to reveal internal conflicts, existential burdens, and the darker aspects of the main character. The analysis process involves identifying word choices that carry a melancholic tone as well as the prominent use of figurative language, including comparisons, contrasts, and emphatic statements. The findings indicate that the use of archaic and philosophical diction, combined with sharp irony and metaphor, effectively transforms the image of Gatotkaca from merely a symbol of physical strength into a representation of human psychological fragility. This research contributes to literary criticism by highlighting how an author’s language style can alter readers' perceptions of established myths within society's culture.

Enforced disappearance during the New Order era represents a historical reality that has left profound wounds and prolonged uncertainty for both the victims and the families left behind. This reality is powerfully represented in Laut Bercerita, a novel by Leila S. Chudori, through the use of symbolic and evocative literary language. This study aims to reveal the representation of enforced disappearance through the use of figures of speech and metaphors in the novel. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a stylistic approach. The data consist of narrative excerpts containing figures of speech and metaphors related to experiences of loss, suffering, memory, and resistance. Data collection was conducted through intensive reading and systematic note-taking, while data analysis involved classifying types of figures of speech and interpreting their contextual meanings. The findings indicate that metaphors of the sea, silence, darkness, and alienation play a crucial role in constructing the representation of enforced disappearance as a traumatic experience that is not only physical but also psychological and collective in nature. The use of figurative language strengthens the narrative’s expressive power in conveying criticism of state violence while simultaneously preserving the memory of humanitarian tragedies that are often marginalized. This study implies that literary works can function as reflective media and as cultural documentation of histories of violence.

City branding is a strategic approach to enhancing a city's competitiveness by leveraging unique local characteristics to create a strong and distinctive identity. This study examines the role of semanggi—a traditional Surabaya dish—as a cultural icon in strengthening the city's branding. Although semanggi carries deep symbolic meaning and historical significance for Surabaya’s residents, its potential as a city branding asset remains underutilized in formal tourism and marketing programs. Adopting a qualitative exploratory case study design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis involving local stakeholders, small and medium-sized culinary enterprises, cultural figures, and municipal representatives. Thematic analysis identified five key dimensions of semanggi’s role in city branding: (1) visual representation in urban spaces and promotional media; (2) cultural narratives and heritage preservation; (3) community pride and participation; (4) local economic resilience; and (5) strategic promotion by municipal authorities. The findings suggest that integrating semanggi into Surabaya’s branding strategy can reinforce cultural identity, differentiate the city in competitive tourism markets, and promote sustainable local entrepreneurship. The study contributes to the theoretical discourse on culinary-based place branding and offers practical recommendations for incorporating local wisdom into destination marketing. Limitations include the single-case scope and qualitative focus, pointing to opportunities for comparative and mixed-method research in the future.  

This study investigates the interconnected roles of board gender diversity and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance on firm performance within Indonesia's distinctive two-tier corporate governance system. Utilizing a panel dataset of 80 companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2021 to 2023 and employing a fixed-effects regression model, the analysis measures gender diversity on both the Board of Commissioners (BOC) and Board of Directors (BOD) using the Blau Index, with firm performance proxied by Tobin's Q and ESG performance sourced from Refinitiv Eikon scores. The empirical results reveal that gender diversity on both the BOC and BOD does not have a statistically significant effect on firm performance, failing to support agency, upper echelons, and gender socialization theories. Furthermore, ESG performance demonstrates a significant negative direct effect aligning with the trade-off perspective that current implementation costs outweigh benefits. Crucially, the analysis finds that ESG does not moderate the board diversity-performance relationship, as both interaction terms are statistically insignificant. These findings collectively indicate that the potential governance and strategic advantages of board gender diversity are not being realized in the Indonesian context. The study concludes that this is attributable to several structural barriers, including tokenistic board appointments, the early-stage and often symbolic nature of ESG adoption focused on compliance rather than integration, and a weak institutional environment characterized by voluntary frameworks and socio-cultural constraints that limit the substantive influence of women in governance roles.

This study examines the semantic aspects of the poetry anthology Penyair Tanpa Bait by Ahmad Zayn, a contemporary poetic work characterized by free structure and the absence of conventional stanzas. The background of this research is rooted in the need to understand how meaning is constructed in modern poetry that departs from traditional poetic forms. The objective of this study is to describe and analyze lexical, grammatical, and referential meanings contained in the poems in order to reveal their overall semantic structure. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method with a semantic analysis approach. The data consist of words, phrases, and poetic lines selected from the anthology, which are analyzed through stages of data identification, classification, and interpretation of meaning. The findings indicate that the poems predominantly utilize lexical meanings as the foundation of interpretation, while grammatical structures and referential meanings function to strengthen symbolic and contextual meanings. The absence of stanza divisions encourages a continuous flow of meaning that emphasizes semantic cohesion rather than formal structure. The implications of this study contribute to the field of linguistic and literary studies by enriching semantic analysis of contemporary Indonesian poetry and providing a framework for interpreting non-conventional poetic texts.

Referring to Abdul Chaer’s semantic theory, this study aims to explain the denotative and connotative meanings contained in the lyrics of the song “Sorai” by Nadin Amizah. This study applies a qualitative descriptive method and uses content analysis techniques to identify words, phrases, and sentences in the lyrics that contain denotative and connotative meanings. The findings of this study indicate that the connotative meaning is more dominant and is manifested through the use of natural symbols and emotional expressions that represent human relationships, the process of healing inner wounds, sincerity, and acceptance of true love. This study found that the lyrics of the song “Sorai” not only function as a way to convey messages literally, but also as a way to express deep feelings. Therefore, by using Abdul Chaer’s theory, song lyrics can reveal layers of meaning and demonstrate the power of language as an emotional and aesthetic medium in musical works.  

This study examines the economic dynamics experienced by migrant women through the perspective of abstract painting as a medium for personal and social reflection. The study uses a qualitative method with an artistic research approach, which departs from the researcher's personal experience as a migrant woman facing increasingly complex economic realities. The rising cost of living, financial constraints, and intertwined academic demands create pressure not only on material aspects, but also on psychological, emotional, and mental conditions. This situation demands adaptation strategies, resilience, and the ability to survive in the face of uncertainty in migrant areas. The dynamics of these experiences are then translated into visual language through an abstract expressionist approach utilizing mixed media techniques. Dynamic line elements, contrasting colors, bubble textures, and layers of material are used as symbols of the tension, struggle, and economic instability experienced by the subjects. The research findings show that abstract painting functions not only as a means of personal expression, but also as a medium for social reflection that records and articulates the experiences of migrant women who are often marginalized. This research contributes to the enrichment of contemporary art discourse, particularly in presenting visual narratives that voice economic issues and women's life experiences in a critical and reflective manner.    

The development of social media has shifted the way humans interpret spirituality and construct self-identity, giving rise to the phenomenon of digital religiosity that is all-visual, instant, and performative. This study aims to analyze how representations of spirituality in social media culture contribute to the crisis of self in modern humans, by interpreting this phenomenon through the metaphysical perspective of Seyyed Hossein Nasr. Using a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical design that enriches digital ethnography, this study collects data through documentation of spirituality-themed content on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as a literature review of Nasr's works and literature related to digital spirituality. Thematic analysis shows that spirituality in social media is formed through symbolic aestheticization, the commodification of religious values, and identity performances oriented towards algorithms and public validation. These findings demonstrate the symptoms of the desacralization of modernity as criticized by Nasr, namely the erosion of spiritual depth due to the dominance of images and the narrowing of transcendent meaning. This study emphasizes that social media is not just a medium, but a space for the formation of consciousness that can facilitate and endeavor the spiritual search of modern humans. Theoretically, this research contributes to the study of digital spirituality and the critique of modernity; In practice, he encourages more critical digital literacy so that people can manage spiritual experiences more authentically.

Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) systems increasingly rely on data-driven approaches to interpret multimodal sensory inputs and support natural interaction. However, purely neural-based HRI models often suffer from limited interpretability and insufficient context-aware decision-making, which can reduce user trust and adaptability in dynamic interaction scenarios. To address these limitations, this study proposes a hybrid neural–symbolic HRI framework that integrates multimodal neural perception with explicit symbolic reasoning for adaptive and interpretable robot behavior. The proposed system combines deep neural networks for processing visual, speech, and gesture inputs with a rule-based symbolic reasoning layer that models interaction context, user states, and behavioral constraints. A loosely coupled integration strategy enables neural outputs to be transformed into symbolic representations, allowing logical inference to guide action selection while preserving perceptual accuracy. The framework was evaluated through controlled HRI experiments comparing a neural-only baseline with the proposed hybrid configuration across multiple interaction scenarios. Experimental results demonstrate that the hybrid neural–symbolic system significantly improves interaction accuracy, contextual responsiveness, and user satisfaction, while achieving substantial gains in interpretability. These findings indicate that symbolic reasoning effectively complements neural perception by enhancing transparency and context-aware adaptation without compromising performance. The study concludes that hybrid neural–symbolic architectures provide a promising foundation for developing trustworthy, adaptive, and human-centered HRI systems.

This study aims to map the direction of criminal punishment policy formulated in criminal law provisions, test claims of humanizing punishment through sanction design and the principle of individualization, and describe forms of repression that operate through normative flexibility, law enforcement discretion, and morally nuanced criminalization. The research method used is normative legal research, utilizing both a legislative and conceptual approach to analyze the norms, principles, and objectives of punishment. The results show that Article 51 articulates the objectives of punishment, including the rehabilitation of offenders, community protection, and the restoration of social balance. However, this provision functions primarily as normative legitimacy for a flexible sanction architecture. The existence of alternative punishments and oversight mechanisms refines the form of punishment while expanding state intervention into the social life of offenders. Furthermore, the regulation of conditional sentences and adjustments to the implementation of sanctions increase the discretion of law enforcement officials. Repression does not disappear, but rather shifts through regulations on morality, public order, recognition of living law, and the threat of symbolic punishment, shifting the relationship between the state and individuals toward ongoing administrative control.

This study aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of the psychological journey of the character Rangga Raja in the novel 0 MDPL by Nurwina Sari. The main focus of the study is to identify the inner conflicts experienced by the protagonist as well as the dynamics of the personality structure consisting of the Id, Ego, and Superego that shape his psychological development throughout the storyline. This research employs a literary psychology approach using a qualitative descriptive method, conducted through a literature review and document analysis of the novel text as the primary data source. The findings indicate that Rangga Raja experiences complex emotional conflicts resulting from past trauma, experiences of loss, and failures in romantic relationships. These conditions are reflected through the tensions and interactions between the Id, Ego, and Superego within himself. The process toward the “zero point” (0 MDPL) is interpreted as a symbol of an identity crisis phase as well as a stage of self-reconstruction, in which the protagonist undergoes processes of reflection, self-acceptance, and openness to change. In addition, Rangga’s interactions with other characters, such as Andini, La Nina, and Nadia G. Sahara, play an important role in his psychological recovery and healing process. This study confirms that the novel 0 MDPL represents a profound reflection on human psychological dynamics, the search for identity, and the gradual process of inner healing.

This study analyzes Tretan Muslim's Mutant series as a digital cultural text containing social criticism through the approach of Karl Marx's literary sociology. Amidst the limited academic studies on digital humor as a medium of social representation, this study investigates how class relations, social conformity, and symbolic domination are represented through the humorous interactions of the characters. Using qualitative methods with content analysis, data were obtained from in-depth observations of several key scenes and supported by literature on Marxism, social criticism, and digital culture. The results show that humor in Mutant works through three main layers: (1) class representation, (2) critique of conformity culture, and (3) commodification of identity. Thus, this study confirms that Mutant functions not only as entertainment, but also as a medium of social criticism that reveals the mechanisms of domination and resistance in contemporary society. These findings contribute to the expansion of the study of literary sociology in the context of digital culture and open up new reading spaces for humor as a means of social reflection.

The culture of patronage is a key characteristic of Indonesian political dynamics, having developed from the pre-colonial era to the contemporary democratic era. Despite decentralization and political reforms in Indonesia, patronage practices persist through relationships between political elites, bureaucracy, business actors, and communities, particularly at the local level. This study analyzes patronage using Pierre Bourdieu's Social Practice Theory framework, which emphasizes the interaction between habitus, capital, and the arena as factors shaping social practices. The method used is descriptive qualitative research with data collection techniques through desk studies, which allows researchers to examine various academic literature to build a comprehensive conceptual analysis. The research findings indicate that internalized political habitus, the accumulation of economic, social, cultural, and symbolic capital, and a competitive local political field are key elements in perpetuating patronage. Patronage is not merely a transactional political practice, but a social structure that is continuously reproduced and impacts the politicization of bureaucracy, the strengthening of oligarchy, power inequality, and the vulnerability of the poor to political manipulation. This research confirms that efforts to strengthen democracy in Indonesia require transformation of the political habitus of society, bureaucratic reform, and restrictions on the dominance of economic actors in the political arena to break the entrenched patron-client chain.

Dyscalculia is a difficulty in learning mathematics that is commonly experienced by elementary school students, especially in multiplication materials. Students with dyscalculia experience obstacles in understanding the concept of numbers and calculation operations, which has an impact on low learning outcomes and students' confidence in mathematics learning. This study aims to describe the difficulties of learning multiplication in dyscalculia students in grade III of MI Nurul Falah 3, as well as identify learning efforts that can help overcome these difficulties. This study used a qualitative approach with a case study design on two students who were identified as having dyscalculia. Data collection techniques include observation, diagnostic assessment, interviews with students and teachers, and analysis of learning outcomes. The results showed that students had difficulty recognizing number symbols, often flipped numbers, and were not able to complete simple multiplication independently. Concrete learning using the "Multiplication Smart Wallet" media has been proven to help students understand the concept of multiplication, increase learning motivation, and reduce anxiety about mathematics. Thus, the use of concrete media is considered effective in supporting more inclusive mathematics learning for dyscalculia students.

This study examines the short story "Click that Kills" by Taufiqurohman to reveal the position of humans in the increasingly dominating digital algorithm environment. Using a descriptive qualitative approach that focuses on structural analysis and literary psychology based on Freud's psychoanalytic theory, this study thoroughly analyzes the intrinsic elements as well as the inner conflicts of the characters. The findings of this study show that the AIDA system poses a profound existential crisis, where individual freedom is threatened due to systemic information manipulation. The characters of Dito and Genta experience a serious conflict between id, ego, and superego when dealing with the figure of "Shadow User" who is a real symbol of the shift in human dignity through raw data. In terms of structure, the storyline conveys a deep social critique of the loss of human self-control in cyberspace. This research shows that this short story is a premonious criticism of the importance of maintaining the essence of humanity in the midst of the prevalence of mechanical algorithms. The phenomenon emphasizes that digital technology can potentially alienate the moral consciousness of individuals in modern society.

Traditional snack micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia face increasing market competition and rapidly changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger consumers seeking innovative and symbolic food experiences. This community engagement study aims to strengthen the profitability and sustainability of traditional snack MSMEs by integrating local flavor innovation with simple business governance practices. Using a participatory action research approach under the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program in Palangka Raya, this study involved co-creation between students and local entrepreneurs in product development, production standardization, and basic financial management. Qualitative data were collected through participatory observation and stakeholder discussions, while quantitative data were obtained from sales records and simple financial reports. The results demonstrate that local flavor-based innovation, combined with standardized operating procedures and cost control mechanisms, improved product differentiation, operational efficiency, and financial performance. The intervention generated a positive net profit and strengthened the partner’s capacity for independent business management. This study contributes to the literature by positioning traditional food MSMEs as sites of cultural innovation and micro-governance, while supporting Sustainable Development Goals related to inclusive economic growth, cultural preservation, and responsible production.

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Segmenting, Targeting, and Positioning (STP) concept in Apple Inc.’s marketing strategy and to assess students’ perceptions as young consumers of Apple products. A descriptive qualitative approach was applied through a literature review supported by an online survey involving 30 students who use Apple products. Data were analyzed descriptively to relate Apple’s STP strategy to respondent preferences and satisfaction levels. The results indicate that Apple applies multidimensional market segmentation encompassing demographic, psychographic, and behavioral aspects, targeting premium consumers, creative professionals, and urban youth. The targeting strategy emphasizes product quality, design, and symbolic value, while positioning is established as a premium brand supported by an integrated product ecosystem. Survey findings show that ease of access is the most prioritized factor among respondents (40%), followed by information completeness (33%). The overall satisfaction level is categorized as moderate, with a mean score of 3.67. These findings suggest that Apple’s STP strategy has been effective in strengthening brand image among students; however, improvements are still needed, particularly in information delivery and service accessibility. This study is expected to provide practical insights for businesses and educational institutions in developing marketing strategies aligned with young consumer characteristics.

This research is entitled “Women’s Representation in Political (Analysis of the Low Number of Elected Female Legislative Members in the Sabu Raijua Regency DPRD in the 2024 Election).” The low representation of women in politics is a significant issue in various regions, including Sabu Raijua Regency. This study aims to analyse the low representation of women in politics and the factors that hinder women from becoming legislative members in the Sabu Raijua Regency DPRD in the 2024 elections using Gender Theory, which focuses on three derivatives of the theory, namely gender issues, gender ideas, and gender representation. The results of the study show that the obstacles faced by women are not only related to individual capabilities, but are also the result of social constructs influenced by gender issues, gender ideas, and gender representation. Women are often faced with domestic burdens, financial constraints, and a lack of training from political parties, which limits their political capacity. Patriarchal customs also reinforce the notion that men are more suitable for leadership, while women are seen as quota fillers. As a result, representation is more symbolic than substantial, as evidenced by the fact that only two women have won seats in the Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), one of whom was through the PAW mechanism. Barriers include traditional norms, gender stereotypes, and social legitimacy; lack of support and strategy from political parties; and financial constraints and campaign capital.