The PAEI INSIDER: Introduction to Epigraphy for Social Humanities Students event was held at the Art Center Building, Faculty of Humanities (FIB) Universitas Diponegoro (Undip) on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 09:00 to 11:00 AM WIB. This event aimed to introduce the field of epigraphy to students, particularly those from the History and Indonesian Literature Study Programs.
Introduction to Epigraphy and the Role of PAEI
This event featured two expert speakers in the field of epigraphy:
- Dr. Siti Maziyah, M.Hum. (Lecturer at FIB Undip and a part of PAEI Komda Central Java)
- Goenawan A. Sambodo, S.S., M.T. (Epigrapher from PAEI Komda Central Java)
In her presentation, Dr. Siti Maziyah explained the role of the Indonesian Epigraphy Experts Association (PAEI) in inscription research in Indonesia. PAEI, founded on March 29, 2000, was previously known as the Indonesian Epigraphy Experts Association (AAEI). The organization is headquartered in Jakarta, with regional branches (Komda) in various areas, including Central Java, Sumatra-Kalimantan, West Java, and Bali-Nusa Tenggara-Sulawesi.
Dr. Siti Maziyah, M.Hum. (Dosen FIB Undip dan bagian dari PAEI Komda Jateng).
Epigraphy itself is a subfield of archaeology that studies ancient scripts found on inscriptions and interprets their meanings. Inscriptions are writings carved on hard materials such as stone, metal, buffalo horn, bamboo, or wood, containing essential historical information about civilizations.
Dr. Siti Maziyah emphasized that epigraphy plays a crucial role in uncovering Indonesia’s history while also helping to reshape global perspectives on Nusantara’s civilization. Since the 1970s, epigraphy research has evolved and significantly contributed to Indonesia’s cultural identity.
Photogrammetry in Cultural Heritage Documentation
The next session was led by Goenawan A. Sambodo, S.S., M.T., an Epigrapher from PAEI Komda Central Java, who presented a topic on Photogrammetry and Image Processing in Cultural Heritage Documentation.
Photogrammetry is a technique for obtaining geometric information about objects through digital photography. This method is highly beneficial in heritage documentation, as it enables the creation of 3D images of inscriptions or historical artifacts without direct contact, reducing the risk of physical damage.
Goenawan A. Sambodo, S.S., M.T. (Epigrafer PAEI Komda Jateng).
Goenawan A. Sambodo explained that the photogrammetry process involves capturing images from multiple angles, which are then processed using specialized software to generate a high-accuracy 3D digital model. These models are valuable for research, digital reconstruction, and museum exhibitions.
During the practical session, students were introduced to the Kiri Engine application, which allows them to analyze and view inscription details digitally.
Support from the Dean of FIB Undip
The Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Undip, Prof. Dr. Alamsyah, M.Hum., expressed his appreciation for this event.
“We fully support activities that enrich students’ knowledge in epigraphy and cultural heritage documentation. This collaboration with PAEI opens up opportunities for students to gain a deeper understanding of history and our nation’s cultural heritage,” said Prof. Alamsyah.
Acara PAEI INSIDER: Pengenalan Epigrafi bagi Mahasiswa Rumpun Sosial Humaniora dilaksanakan di Gedung Art Center FIB Undip pada Jumat, 14 Maret 2025.
Future Prospects and Student Benefits
By introducing epigraphy and photogrammetry techniques, students are expected to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving history through inscription research. Additionally, the digitalization techniques presented in this session equip students with valuable skills for academic and professional challenges in the fields of history, archaeology, and cultural studies.
This event highlighted that epigraphy is not just about history it also integrates modern technology, playing a vital role in preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage for future generations.